Summer in the Valley text in alternating thick and thin yellow letters

Overview

Summer in the Valley offers children ages 4–17 a unique blend of hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) experiences and mindfulness practices, including yoga. Grounded in our holistic educational philosophy, students explore exciting weekly themes that cultivate curiosity, creativity, and personal growth. Set on our scenic 31-acre wooded campus, children safely discover, learn, and grow through meaningful connections with nature and one another.

Engaging the Five Senses

At Summer in the Valley, "hands-on" learning means children actively engage all their senses as they explore the world around them. Research consistently demonstrates that participant-based learning significantly enhances information retention, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Our immersive approach combines sensory-rich STEAM activities with mindfulness practices, creating powerful learning experiences that resonate deeply and inspire lifelong curiosity.

STEAM Education

Our thoughtfully designed STEAM activities are scientifically sound, age-appropriate, and intentionally challenging. Children are encouraged to ask meaningful questions such as "why," "how," and "what," finding answers through guided observation, experimentation, and interactive problem-solving. By engaging in these dynamic, hands-on experiences, students ignite their natural curiosity, embrace critical thinking, and internalize the scientific process—because that’s how great minds grow!

Complementing these STEAM adventures, students also engage in yoga and mindfulness practices, harmonizing the body, mind, and energy. These powerful techniques promote stress reduction, build resilience, and enhance focus, helping children thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Why Choose Summer in the Valley?

  • Holistic Development: Engaging STEAM activities combined with mindfulness and yoga nurture balanced, whole-child growth.

  • Warm & Supportive Environment: A safe and nurturing space where children confidently explore, learn, and build strong, positive relationships.

  • Immersive Outdoor Adventures: Exciting, hands-on exploration across our scenic 31-acre wooded campus—ideal for young explorers.

  • Experienced & Passionate Staff: Dedicated educators committed to supporting individual growth and celebrating every child's achievements.

  • Sensory-Rich Experiences: Inspiring activities that spark imagination, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning.

Themes

Week 1 | Kitchen Chemistry
June 23 – June 27 | $380.00
Explore exciting chemical reactions and the fascinating science behind mixtures! Transform unusual ingredient combinations into delicious treats, harness the sun's power to cook food, and discover surprising new uses for everyday kitchen items. Experiment with yeast, fruit juices, and more as you turn the kitchen into your very own science lab!

Week 2 | Forest Crafting
June 30 – July 3 | $304.00 (shorter week)
Celebrate creativity and nature by crafting unique masterpieces from materials collected right from our beautiful 31-acre campus. Students will enhance their fine motor skills and safely learn how to use basic hand tools and various artistic mediums. Embracing the "A" in STEAM, Forest Crafting is all about exploring the beauty of nature through artistic expression!

Week 3 | Jurassic Journey
July 7 – July 11 | $380.00
Journey back in time to uncover the mysteries of the prehistoric world! Students will identify, sort, and create fossil replicas, and explore the incredible science of genetics, ecosystems, and the importance of a clean environment. Along the way, they'll learn fascinating facts about dinosaurs and even design their imaginative prehistoric creatures!

Week 4 | Blast Off!
July 14 – July 18 | $380.00
Get ready for liftoff as students explore the science of flight! They'll design and build various flying machines—from gliders and planes to marshmallow launchers—while discovering propulsion principles and aerodynamics. The excitement reaches new heights as we build and launch model rockets, just like NASA engineers!

Week 5 | Fast Track Fury
July 21 – July 25 | $380.00
Buckle up for an exciting week of designing, building, and racing gravity-powered cars! Students will tap into their creativity and apply the science of aerodynamics to see whose car travels furthest or achieves the fastest speed. They'll also construct a "Crash Car" to safely protect an egg "passenger," reinforcing the importance of safety engineering!

Week 6 | Summer Mash-Up
July 28 – August 1 | $380.00
End the summer with an unforgettable blend of favorite activities from all our themes. Perfect for those who missed out earlier or anyone who wants another round of their favorite moments, Summer Mash-Up offers highlights of chemistry, art, dinosaurs, flight, customized cars, and more! It’s the ideal way to conclude a season of adventure, learning, and fun.

Questions

We're here to help! If you have any questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to call, text or email us.

Join our community at The Mandala School for an educational and enriching summer your child will never forget! Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today and ensure your child experiences the magic of a summer filled with growth, exploration, and discovery.