Critter Coding Summer Camp (Grades 2–3) – Grand Rapids, MI
Critter Coding is a hands-on coding-focused summer camp for early elementary students hosted by Van Andel Institute for Education in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Taking place July 20–23, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, this interactive camp invites students in grades 2–3 to explore beginner coding concepts through nature-inspired projects and animal-themed creativity.
Designed for young learners who love both animals and technology, Critter Coding blends computational thinking with life science concepts such as animal senses, adaptations, and survival strategies. Through guided activities, campers learn how coding can be used to model real-world behaviors and create interactive projects that reflect the natural world.
Program Details
Program name: Critter Coding (Grades 2–3)
Ages served: 7-9 (Students entering grades 2-3)
Program type: Coding and STEAM summer camp
Focus areas: Beginner coding, inputs and outputs, sequencing, animal senses and adaptations, creative problem-solving
Format: In-person
Pricing: $113.89
Date and time: July 20-23, 2026 | 1:00PM - 3:30PM (2.5 hours)
Location:
Van Andel Institute for Education
216 Division Ave. N
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Program Overview
Critter Coding is designed to help students in grades 2–3 build confidence with technology by learning foundational coding skills in a playful, age-appropriate environment. Throughout the camp, students explore how coding can be used to represent real-world ideas—such as how animals sense their surroundings, respond to stimuli, and use adaptations to survive.
Guided projects introduce key beginner coding concepts like sequencing, inputs and outputs, and logical decision-making. Campers create animal-themed coding projects that connect digital creativity to the natural world, encouraging students to think like both scientists and young programmers.
In addition to coding activities, campers engage with hands-on learning experiences that highlight animal biology and behavior. Students may also have the opportunity to meet and interact with resident animals through supervised educational encounters, helping them connect learning to real-world observation.
By combining nature-based exploration with introductory coding instruction, Critter Coding supports both skill-building and curiosity, giving young learners a fun and meaningful entry point into computer science.
Learning Focus & Skills Developed
Introduction to beginner coding concepts
Understanding sequencing, inputs, and outputs
Computational thinking and logical problem-solving
Creativity through building interactive projects
Exploring animal senses, adaptations, and survival strategies
Confidence using technology in a guided setting
Collaboration and participation in group learning
Who This Program Is Best For
Students in grades 2–3 who are curious about coding
Kids who love animals, nature, and hands-on learning
Beginners looking for an age-appropriate introduction to programming
Families seeking coding summer camps in Grand Rapids
Learners who thrive through creative, guided projects
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 work in biomedical research and science education, and its education programs help students develop critical thinking and STEM skills through hands-on learning.
Van Andel Institute for Education offers classes, camps, and family programs designed to make science and technology accessible and engaging for learners of different ages. Programs are led by trained educators and emphasize curiosity, problem-solving, and real-world connections.
Program Location & Local Context
Critter Coding takes place in downtown Grand Rapids at Van Andel Institute for Education, located at 216 Division Ave N. The institute is part of Grand Rapids’ growing STEM education ecosystem, providing local families with access to high-quality learning programs in a professional education setting.
For families in Grand Rapids and surrounding West Michigan communities, Critter Coding offers a unique opportunity for early elementary students to explore coding in a way that feels creative and approachable—especially for children who are motivated by animals, nature, and discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do kids need prior coding experience to attend?
No. Critter Coding is designed for beginners and introduces coding concepts at an age-appropriate level.
What grade levels is this camp for?
This session is designed for students entering grades 2–3.
What will students do during the camp?
Campers learn beginner coding skills through hands-on projects, including activities focused on animal senses, adaptations, and interactive digital creations.
Where does the camp take place?
The camp is held in person at Van Andel Institute for Education in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Explore Related Programs
Explore more coding and robotics programs for kids in Grand Rapids
Browse other hands-on STEAM summer camps across Michigan