FAQs

Everything you need to know about the our camps - from scheduling, safety, what your child will learn, and how we blend coding with mindfulness.

What is Zen Code Camp?

Zen Code Camp is more than just a summer camp—it’s where kids (ages 7–12) discover their potential by learning to code, designing their own apps and games, exploring 3D printing, and practicing mindfulness techniques.

Running weekly throughout the summer from June to August, our camps combine cutting-edge technology with emotional growth to help kids build confidence, creativity, and real-world skills. It’s the ultimate blend of innovation and personal development, designed to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders—all in a fun, supportive environment.

What will my child learn at Zen Code Camp?

Your child will learn foundational coding skills, design apps, build games, and explore 3D printing. They’ll also practice mindfulness techniques to build focus, resilience, and emotional intelligence. By the end of the week, they’ll have tangible creations and confidence in their ability to innovate.

Does my child need prior coding experience?

No prior experience is necessary! Zen Code Camp is designed for kids ages 7-12 of all skill levels. Beginners will learn coding fundamentals, while experienced kids can dive into more advanced challenges.

What makes Zen Code Camp different from other summer camps?

We combine hands-on coding education with mindfulness practices to help kids thrive both intellectually and emotionally. Campers leave with real-world skills, emotional growth, and tangible creations, all while having fun in a supportive environment.

What does a typical day at camp look like?

A day at camp starts with mindful icebreaker activities, followed by coding and app creation in the morning. After a healthy lunch and movement break, kids explore 3D printing and hands-on innovation. The day ends with a reflection session to celebrate their progress.

At the end of the week, all campers participate in the Show and Tell Ceremony, where they get to show off their apps and games and 3D printed objects in front of family and friends! 

Will my child be sitting in front of a screen all day?

No. While coding is an important part of camp, the day is balanced with 3D printing, mindfulness activities, movement breaks, and hands-on projects to keep kids active and engaged.

How do you keep kids engaged and excited throughout the week?

Our projects are fun, creative, and personalized, so kids stay motivated. Instructors create an energetic and supportive atmosphere, and kids love seeing their ideas come to life with apps, games, and 3D printing.

Will my child come home with something to show from the camp?

Yes! Campers will take home a completed app or game they’ve created, a 3D-printed project, and a personalized completion certificate. 

What is the Show and Tell Ceremony, and can parents attend?

The Show and Tell Ceremony is the highlight of the week! On Fridays (the final day of camp), parents are invited to watch campers present their apps, games, and 3D-printed creations. It’s a big celebration of their hard work and creativity.

How are coding, 3D printing, and mindfulness balanced in the schedule?

We allocate time for each activity every day to ensure a balanced experience. Coding is in the morning, mindfulness activities are woven throughout, and 3D printing, as well as app creation and development, takes center stage in the afternoon.

How does mindfulness benefit my child?

Mindfulness helps kids improve focus, manage stress, and develop emotional resilience—skills they can use in school, at home, and beyond.

What’s the long-term value of learning coding and 3D printing?

Coding and 3D printing are future-ready skills that prepare kids for careers in technology, engineering, and creative industries. They also build problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

What if my child is shy or introverted?

Zen Code Camp is a welcoming space for all kids. Small group sizes, supportive instructors, and creative projects allow shy or introverted kids to feel comfortable while developing confidence and social skills.

How do you ensure my child’s safety?

We prioritize safety by maintaining low camper-to-instructor ratios, having all staff trained in first aid and CPR, and creating a secure environment for all activities. Safety protocols are in place for all equipment, including 3D printers.

What’s the camper-to-instructor ratio?

We maintain a low ratio of 7:1 to ensure every child gets personalized attention and support throughout the week.

What happens if my child gets sick or injured during camp?

In case of illness or injury, we’ll immediately contact you and provide the necessary care to ensure your child’s safety and comfort.

How do you handle drop-off and pick-up?

Complimentary early drop-off starts at 8:00 AM, and pick-up is from 3:00–4:00 PM. Our team ensures a secure and smooth process, with clear instructions and designated areas for parents. Camp officially starts at 9:00 AM each day and ends at 3:00 PM each day. 

What age group is Zen Code Camp designed for?

Our camps are for kids ages 7–12, with activities tailored to different age and skill levels.

Will my child be placed with kids of a similar age and skill level?

Yes, we group kids by age and experience to ensure they’re comfortable, supported, and appropriately challenged.

What if my child already has coding experience?

Kids with experience can take on more advanced challenges or refine their skills by creating complex apps and games. Our instructors adapt the experience to meet every camper’s needs.

Is the camp suitable for kids who don’t enjoy tech?

Absolutely! While tech is a key part of the camp, the creative and hands-on nature of our activities makes it fun and engaging for all types of learners.

Can siblings or friends attend the same camp?

Yes, siblings and friends are welcome to attend the same camp. In fact, we offer a special discount of $200 OFF camp for siblings and friends! See here for more details.

Where is the camp located?

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Our Naperville location is hosted at [Venue Name].
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Our Wilmette location is hosted at [Venue Name].
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What are the camp hours?

Camp runs Monday–Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with complimentary early drop-off starting at 8:00 AM and late pick-up until 4:00 PM.

Are meals and snacks provided?

Yes, healthy, allergy-free lunches and snacks are included every day. We accommodate common dietary restrictions—just let us know during enrollment!

What should my child bring to camp?

Your child should bring a reusable water bottle and wear comfortable clothing for active learning. All other materials, including laptops and 3D printing supplies, are provided.

What if my child has allergies or dietary restrictions?

We accommodate dietary needs and ensure allergen-free options are available. Please provide details during enrollment so we can plan accordingly.

Is there a dress code?

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Sneakers or closed-toed shoes are required for safety.

How do I enroll my child in camp?

Enrollment is easy—just visit our website and select your preferred location and camp date(s). Early bird pricing is available until May 1st. 

How much does camp cost?

Camp costs $849 per week, which includes all activities, meals, supplies, and access to our at-home coding platform. Get $200 OFF a week-long camp when you sign your child up before May 1st. 

Do you offer sibling discounts?

Yes! We offer a $200 discount for each additional sibling attending camp.

Is there an early bird discount?

Yes, save $200 when you enroll by May 1st.

What is included in the cost of camp?

The cost covers all coding and mindfulness activities, healthy meals and snacks, use of technology (Chromebooks) while at camp, at-home access to our online coding platform, and take-home items like a 3D-printed creation, a camp swag kit, and a camp completion certificate. 

What is your refund and cancellation policy?

Refunds are available up to two weeks before your camp start date. After that, credit can be applied to a future camp session.

Still have questions?

Send us a message!