Crawly Creatures Summer Camp – Grand Rapids, MI
Crawly Creatures is a hands-on life science summer camp for kids hosted by Van Andel Institute for Education in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Taking place June 8–11, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, this interactive camp invites children to explore insects, spiders, and other small animals through guided scientific observation and nature-based learning.
Designed for curious learners who enjoy hands-on discovery, Crawly Creatures helps kids learn how small animals survive, move, sense their environment, and contribute to ecosystems. Through age-appropriate experiments and guided activities, campers build foundational science skills while developing confidence exploring the natural world.
Program Details
Program name: Crawly Creatures
Ages served: 5-6 (Students entering K - 1st grade)
Program type: Life science and nature-based summer camp
Focus areas: Biology, animal adaptations, ecosystems, scientific observation, critical thinking
Format: In-person
Pricing: $92.55
Date and time: June 8-11, 2026 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM (2 hours)
Location:
Van Andel Institute for Education
216 Division Ave. N
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Program Overview
Crawly Creatures introduces campers to the science of insects and other small animals through interactive activities designed to spark curiosity and build real scientific thinking skills. Throughout the camp, students explore what makes “crawly” animals unique, including how they move, how they sense the world around them, and how their bodies help them survive.
Guided projects may include observing physical features, comparing different types of small animals, and learning how adaptations such as camouflage, exoskeletons, and sensory structures support survival. Campers practice asking questions, making observations, and using evidence to describe what they notice.
By exploring real science concepts through hands-on learning, Crawly Creatures helps children connect biology to the world outside their classroom. The camp encourages kids to feel comfortable exploring nature, building understanding of how small animals contribute to ecosystems and why they matter.
Hosted in a professional education setting in downtown Grand Rapids, this camp offers a structured, supportive environment where kids can learn through discovery while developing confidence and curiosity about life science.
Learning Focus & Skills Developed
Introduction to insect and animal biology
Understanding adaptations and survival strategies
Scientific observation and evidence-based thinking
Comparing species and recognizing patterns
Curiosity-driven exploration
Basic ecosystem awareness
Confidence engaging with nature and science concepts
Who This Program Is Best For
Kids curious about insects, spiders, and small animals
Learners who enjoy hands-on, nature-based science activities
Children who like exploring how animals move and survive
Families seeking life science summer camps in Grand Rapids
Students who thrive in guided discovery environments
About the Provider
Van Andel Institute for Education is the education and community learning division of Van Andel Institute, a nonprofit organization based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Van Andel Institute is widely recognized for its biomedical research and science education efforts, and its education programs support students through hands-on, inquiry-based STEM learning.
Van Andel Institute for Education offers camps, classes, and family programs designed to help children develop scientific thinking and real-world problem-solving skills. Programs are led by trained educators and emphasize curiosity, exploration, and meaningful learning experiences.
Program Location & Local Context
This Crawly Creatures summer camp takes place at Van Andel Institute for Education in downtown Grand Rapids, located at 216 Division Ave N. The institute serves families across West Michigan and provides accessible, high-quality STEM programming in a dedicated learning environment.
For families in Grand Rapids and nearby communities, Crawly Creatures offers an engaging way for children to explore life science concepts through hands-on investigation and guided observation, supporting early science literacy and curiosity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do kids need prior science experience to attend?
No. Crawly Creatures is designed for beginners and does not require prior life science experience.
What will kids do during camp?
Campers participate in guided activities focused on insects and other small animals, including observation, comparison, and learning about adaptations.
Is this camp held indoors or outdoors?
This camp has both indoor and outdoor components, with activities designed to support safe, hands-on exploration.
Where does the camp take place?
The camp is held at Van Andel Institute for Education in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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