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Best Summer Educational Programs For Kids In Pittsburgh

There's no doubt that most children look forward to a lazy summer relaxing in front of the TV or by the pool; however, these favorite summer activities typically don't lend themselves to maintaining the education they received during the school year. Rather than sending your child back to school feeling like they need to catch up or remember what they learned the previous school year, consider sending them to a summer educational program designed specifically for kids. With the countless colleges and universities located throughout the city, there are numerous quality, fun and educational camps, classes and activities focused on a variety of subjects for children of all ages. Give your children a head start this summer by enrolling them in one of these renowned summer educational programs.

Carnegie Science Center
1 Allegheny Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 237-1637
www.carnegiesciencecenter.org

Many children consider science to be among one of the most fascinating and fun subjects that they learn about in school, which is why the Carnegie Science Center's summer science camps are so appealing. Designed for children ages 4 through 12 and older, this educational science-themed day camp program provides hands-on opportunities to learn more about the world in which they live. Learn about the diverse city of Pittsburgh through interactive activities that expose children to a variety of science-based careers, exhibits and crafts that they won't find in a traditional school classroom. Professional teachers work alongside local college science and education majors to ensure a safe, nurturing and educational environment. Registration for the Carnegie Science Center's summer science camps is available through its website or by phone.

Pittsburgh Center For The Arts School
1047 Shadyside Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15323
(412) 361-0873
www.center.pfpca.org

Let your child's creativity flow at the 38th annual Pittsburgh Center for The Arts' 2016 Summer Art Camps & High School Immersions. Once registered, you can expect to broaden your artistic horizon and unleash your inner artist through a variety of mediums, including architecture, media arts, science, performance, painting, sculpture and literature. Based on your children's ages, they may be best suited for the art camp that is geared toward artists ages 4 through 13 while high school aged students will fit in best at its high school immersions. This year's programs will take place at the PCA School located at the school's Shadyside campus.

Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(412) 268-9796
www.cmu.edu

Children who show an interest in math and sciences will only further develop their experience through the enrichment program offered through Carnegie Mellon University. Known as the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences, this program helps foster continued education for mathematics, engineering, science and technology during the summer months. Your child will return to school with a renewed passion and more thorough understanding on these subjects following individual and team-based research and collaboration on projects related to physics, math, computer science, chemistry and biological sciences. This year's program will be held at Carnegie Mellon University's campus.

Related: Best Summer Day Camps In Pittsburgh

Reading Clinic Literacy Development Program
Duquesne University
600 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
(412) 396-6088
www.duq.edu

The start of a new school year can bring anxiety for children who struggle with reading. That's where Duquesne Unviersity's Reading Clinic can help. It has created a Literacy Development Program specifically for children ages 6 through 17 who may need additional assistance in reading. From tutoring to assessment, this program provides individual and group guidance based on your child's specific strengths and weaknesses. Workshops are even offered to parents so that they can learn how to join forces with the clinic to support young readers. Apply online or contact the Duquesne Reading clinic directly by phone.

Zoo Camp
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
1 Wild Pl.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 665-3640
www.pittsburghzoo.org

If you've got animal lovers in your family, they'll flip for the furry and ferocious fun they'll find at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium's Zoo Camp. While programs are available for infants, toddlers and pre-teens, elementary-aged children will be particularly interested in the educational opportunities offered through camps like Families Untamed, Creating Wild Spaces and Photos for Conservation that allow them to get closer and learn more about the zoo's residents and their habitats. Activities and camps are overseen by the zoo's education specialists who share access to exhibits and interesting tidbits about animals. Registration for Zoo Camp is required and can be done via mail or by visiting the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium's website.

Related: Best Educational Activities For Kids In Pittsburgh

Jessica Wasik is a graduate of Robert Morris University with a degree in English Studies. She is also a contributing writer for Examiner.com. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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