StarCamp WeDo 2.0: Build, Code, and Explore Space

Parents: A hands-on robotics and engineering camp where students use LEGO WeDo 2.0 to build, code, and explore exciting space-themed challenges. Campers in grades 1–3 are introduced to simple machines, motors, sensors, and beginner coding through playful, age-appropriate projects inspired by stars, planets, rockets, and space exploration. As they build and test their models, students strengthen problem-solving, creativity, and STEM confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Level Up options are included for older or more advanced campers in grades 4–6.

Kids: Blast off into space with LEGO robotics! Build cool models, make them move with code, and explore awesome space missions. You might create a rocket, rover, satellite, or another out-of-this-world invention as you build and discover like a space engineer.

Project Model

Campers create a series of beginner-friendly WeDo 2.0 builds connected to a space exploration theme. Students use motors, sensors, and simple coding to make their creations move and react. Activities are designed for grades 1–3, with optional Level Up extensions that add more advanced building and coding challenges for grades 4–6.

Daily Structure

4 ninety-minute sessions per day (S1–S4)
Hands-on robotics building, coding, testing, and sharing
Differentiation built into each session with Try This First for grades 1–3 and Level Up for grades 4–6
Tools: LEGO WeDo 2.0, computer or tablet, coding interface, build guides

Day 1: Build Your Space Mission

Outcomes: Learn how LEGO WeDo 2.0 works, build simple robotic models, and use coding to make space-themed creations move and respond.

S1 Meet WeDo 2.0
Activities: Campers explore the WeDo motor, sensor, and coding blocks while learning how to connect parts and make a first model move. Students are introduced to the idea of a space mission and begin building a simple starter model.
Words: motor, sensor, code, robot, model, mission.
Try This First: Build a simple model that spins, rolls, or moves.
Level Up: Change the speed, direction, or timing of the movement.

S2 Launch into Space
Activities: Build a space-themed project such as a rocket, satellite, or spinning star model. Campers use code to add movement and test how their design works.
Try This First: Make one moving space model with a motor.
Level Up: Add an extra moving part or a second coding action.

S3 Add Smart Space Features
Activities: Use a sensor to trigger a space action, such as starting a launch, detecting movement, or changing what the model does. Campers explore how sensors can help robots respond to the world.
Try This First: Make your model move when a sensor is triggered.
Level Up: Use the sensor to control more than one action or create a sequence.

S4 Test, Improve, and Share
Activities: Campers improve their space builds, test how well they work, and share their creations with the group. Students explain what their model does and how their code helps it work.
Reflection: What does your space build do? What did you change to make it better?
Level Up: Combine ideas into a more advanced space system or add a second challenge to your model.

Why Families Love This

For Parents: Campers get an engaging introduction to robotics, coding, and engineering through a high-interest theme that sparks imagination. The day blends creativity and STEM learning while helping students build confidence with hands-on tools and guided exploration.
For Campers: You get to build space robots, code moving models, and create your own mission to the stars.

Inclusion & Confidence Builders

• Beginner-friendly projects designed for grades 1–3
• Level Up options available for grades 4–6
• Step-by-step support with room for creativity
• Testing and redesign built into the day
• Sharing time to celebrate effort, ideas, and problem-solving

Camp Essentials

Ages: Grades 1–3, with Level Up challenge options for grades 4–6
Times:

• Full-Day: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
• AM: 8:30 AM–1:00 PM
• PM: 12:30 PM–5:00 PM

Location: 2171 Ivy Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903
What to Bring: Water bottle, lunch, and one or two light snacks
Video Gaming: Not allowed
Tech Provided: Computers and robotics kits (for in-camp use only; equipment stays with us)
Skill Level: Beginners welcome; no prior robotics or coding experience required
Dress Code: Comfortable clothes; indoor-friendly shoes
Contact: camps@yblueridgeboost.com • (434) 260‑0636
Allergies/Medical: Share details during registration; bring any necessary meds
Behavior & Safety: Kindness first; follow staff directions; careful use of robotics equipment required

Note: Camps listed for ages 6 to 12 may be divided into two groups by age