Engineering, Robotics & Tech Camps in Charlotte

Do you have a child who is always taking things apart to see how they work? Or perhaps one who dreams of building skyscrapers or programming their own video games? At Discovery Place Science in Uptown Charlotte, our Engineering & Technology summer camps turn that curiosity into capability.

Our 2026 lineup spans from Kindergarten through 6th grade, offering hands-on experiences in civil engineering, robotics, coding, and “maker” skills. Using tools like LEGO® bricks, real coding languages, and the engineering design process, we empower the next generation of innovators to solve real-world problems.

Engineering Camps by Grade Level

Find the perfect challenge for your young builder.

Kindergarten (Ages 5-6)

Tiny Tinkering

Dates: June 8 – 12 | July 13 – 17 | August 17 – 21
The Experience: Mini makers, unite! This camp is the perfect introduction to engineering. Campers take things apart, put them together, and build with LEGO® bricks. They explore fundamental questions like “How does this work?” and “What can I build with this?” in a fun, sensory-rich environment.

1st & 2nd Grade (Ages 6-8)

Engineering Extravaganza

Dates: June 15 – 19 | July 13 – 17 | August 10 – 14
The Experience: Using the engineering design process as a roadmap, campers plan and build a city from the ground up! This camp introduces different branches of engineering (civil, structural) as campers tinker with LEGO® bricks to tackle real-world challenges. It’s collaborative, creative, and constructive.

3rd & 4th Grade (Ages 8-10)

Creative Coding

Dates: June 22 – 26 | July 20 – 24
The Experience: Build, code, and create like an innovator! Using a variety of robots and coding languages, campers explore the logic behind the screen. Each day involves inventing, testing, and refining code to solve unique challenges, connecting their work to real technology in the Museum.

Think It, Make It, Take It

Dates: July 6 – 10 | August 3 – 7
The Experience: A unique introduction to the “Maker” movement. Imaginations soar as young thinkers work through a series of design challenges. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about thinking outside the box to design, build, test, and share original ideas.


5th & 6th Grade (Ages 10-12)

Tech Trailblazers

Dates: July 13 – 17
The Experience: Perfect for the true technology enthusiast. This camp is a journey into digital creativity. Campers build computer and coding skills—with and without screens—creating games, designing websites, testing coding languages, and programming robots. It is a comprehensive tech experience for the modern student.

Science Smorgasbord

Dates: June 22 – 26 | August 3 – 7
The Experience: Can’t decide between science and tech? Do both! This variety-pack camp includes specific modules where campers code robots and think like engineers to solve problems. It is an excellent choice for campers who want to try robotics without committing to a full week of just coding.


Why Choose Discovery Place for Engineering?

The Engineering Design Process
We don’t just let kids “play” with blocks; we teach them the professional cycle of Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, and Improve. This critical thinking framework helps them understand that failure is just the first step toward a better design.
Access to Technology
From robotics kits to specialized software, our camps provide access to tools that aren’t typically available at home. Campers get hands-on experience with the hardware and software that powers our world.
Expert Mentorship
Our educators are passionate about STEM. They guide campers through complex problems, encouraging them to ask “Why?” and “What if?” rather than just giving them the answers.


Frequently Asked Questions (Engineering Camps)
Q: Do these camps require prior coding or robotics experience?
A: No! All of our camps, including Creative Coding and Tech Trailblazers, are designed to be accessible to beginners while offering “stretch goals” for campers with some experience.

Q: Is “Tiny Tinkering” just playing with LEGOs?
A: It is much more than that. While LEGO® bricks are a tool we use, the curriculum focuses on fine motor skills, pattern recognition, and the basics of structural integrity—foundational skills for future engineers.

Q: What is the difference between “Creative Coding” and “Tech Trailblazers”?
A: Creative Coding (3rd/4th) focuses heavily on the logic of programming and robotics. Tech Trailblazers (5th/6th) is broader, incorporating web design, game creation, and more advanced digital skills suitable for pre-teens.