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Youth Events Calendar

Find youth programs, events and summer camps for kids and teens. Each section shows the next several events. To find more, checkout the calendar on the main Events page or use the search box to filter events by key words.

Looking for a tutor? Click on Find a tutor under Qucklinks.

Questions about an events: Email makerschooladmin@nova-labs.org


Upcoming events

  • MS: Makers on Fire 12+ (Spring 2023)

    • 23 Jan 2023
    • 9:30 AM
    • 1 May 2023
    • 11:30 AM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 2)
    • 2
    Register

    In Makers on Fire, middle school & high school home-school students will learn about the role of technology in the world while applying those principles to a variety of hands-on projects. This class focuses on the fundamental skills, processes and materials of technology:  the engineering design process, computer science, 3D design, rapid manufacturing and more.  Students will use laser cutters, microcontrollers, servos, program retro video games, learn to use the 3D printer and more!

    Teens enrolled in Makers on Fire can access MakerTeen Studio at half the regular rate. Teens must provide their own materials for Studio projects

    Scholarships available.  Please email scholarships@nova-labs.org apply.  

    Class meets weekly on Mondays on the following dates.

    Jan. 23, 30
    Feb.6, 13, 27
    Mar. 6, 20, 27
    Apr. 3, 17, 24
    May 1

    If you register for this session, PLEASE read your confirmation email for further information.

    Show details

  • MS: Maker Teen Studio Hours 13+ (Spring 2023)

    • 23 Jan 2023
    • 5:30 PM
    • 1 May 2023
    • 8:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 2)
    Register

    Introducing MakerSchool’s newest offering, The MakerTeen Studio Hours.  This time is perfect for your teen that wants to discover making with their own projects and dreams with supervised mentorship.  Perfect for the maker who wants to make at their own pace.  MakerTeens can utilize 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC mills, woodworking, metalworking and more during this after school time.  

    Teens enrolled in Makers on Fire can access MakerTeen Studio at half the regular rate. Teens must provide their own materials for Studio projects

    Scholarships available.  Please email scholarships@nova-labs.org to apply.  

    Class meets weekly on Mondays on the following dates.

    Jan. 23, 30
    Feb.6, 13, 27
    Mar. 6, 20, 27
    Apr. 3, 17, 24
    May 1


    If you register for this session, PLEASE read your confirmation email for further information.

    Show details

  • CANCELED MS: Fiber Arts Workshop for Young Makers (3-6 graders) Spring 2023

    • 2 Feb 2023
    • 4:30 PM
    • 9 Mar 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 2)
    • 6
    Register

    During these six sessions your maker will explore fibers, both natural and synthetic and a variety of techniques to transform those materials into wearable and decorative objects. Projects will include weaving a tapestry, designing and printing a cyanotype, designing a t-shirt with vinyl appliqués, and sewing a plush animal.

    Class meets weekly on the following dates.

    Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23
    Mar. 2, 9

    After registering, PLEASE read your confirmation email for further information.

    Show details

  • MS: 3d Art Workshop for Young Makers (3-6 Graders) (Spring 2023)

    • 16 Mar 2023
    • 4:30 PM
    • 20 Apr 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 2)
    • 6
    Register

    In this workshop, your young artist will explore making art pieces that pop up, move in a gentle breeze or at the spin of a crank. Nothing is flat about this class. Projects will include creating Calder inspired mobiles, automata, string designs, pop up books and cards, and geometric constructions in the style of George Hart. 

    Our makerclasses are designed to introduce your child to a variety of crafts, skills, and materials, while growing their planning and executive function skills. This class inspires a love of the maker process.

    Class meets weekly on Thursdays the following dates.

    Mar. 16, 23, 30
    Apr. 6, 13, 20

    If you register for this class, PLEASE read your confirmation email for further information.

    Show details

  • MS: Engineering Workshop for Young Makers Grades 3-6 (Spring 2023)

    • 27 Apr 2023
    • 4:30 PM
    • 1 Jun 2023
    • 6:30 PM
    • Nova Labs, 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA (Classroom 2)
    • 4
    Register

    Following the popular demand, we have designed this workshop for your budding engineer. During these six sessions, students will explore the physics of simple machines and movement by being involved in designing and building bots and vehicles powered by electric and mechanical means. Projects will include several types of bots, mouse trap cars, solar charged thrust cars, and table trebuchets.

    Our makerclasses are designed to introduce your child to a variety of crafts, skills, and materials, while growing their planning and executive function skills. This class inspires a love of the maker process.

    Class meets weekly on Thursdays on the following dates.

    Apr. 27

    May 4, 11, 18, 25
    Jun 1

    If you register for this class, PLEASE read your confirmation email for further information.

    Show details

  • MS: Become a Superhero! [Grades K-3 | Week 1]

    • 20 Jun 2023
    • 23 Jun 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register


    Campers will launch into the world of superheros by designing and building their own outfit, together with capes, accessories and other dictates of their imagination. This creative camp will focus on building basic competencies with fundamental maker techniques, such as cutting, different ways to apply glue, sewing, etc.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Gravity Cars and Gizmos [Grades 4-6 | Week 1]

    • 20 Jun 2023
    • 23 Jun 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    Register
    In this camp, your child will design, build, and tinker their way through a trio of challenges: the Gravity Car Derby, the famous Nova Labs Egg Drop & the Robot Racers. A great camp for the budding engineer in your life!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Woodworking 101 [Ages 10+| Week 1]

    • 20 Jun 2023
    • 23 Jun 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

    Geared for young makers from 10 to teens, this camp is for a young person who wants to learn the ins and outs of a woodshop in a safe manner. Students will use drill presses, scroll saws, drills, hammers and hand saws to build acoustic speakers, gum ball machines, mallets and more!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Fashion Design: Handbags & Accessories (Ages 10+ | Week 1]

    • 20 Jun 2023
    • 23 Jun 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Crafter's Cove), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register

    Dominate the runway with your own accessories in this camp! Campers will learn to read a pattern, sew, and personalize their work utilizing the sublimation printer, sewing machines and basic leather work tools. Get creative and put your own twist on some classic designs or invent the next trend.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Space Explorers (Grades 4-6 | Week 2)

    • 26 Jun 2023
    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register
    In this camp, students will explore all things space. Campers will design a space telescope, watch a Mars rover landing, design and 3D print a spaceship, create galaxy paintings, imagine habitats for humans to survive in far away planets and much more.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Become a Lego Master Builder (Grades K-3 | Week 2)

    • 26 Jun 2023
    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 5
    Register
    This camp is all about LEGO worlds: amusement parks, space exploration, superhero cities. Your child will become a master builder and learn basic mechanics with the Lego BricQ & WeDo sets.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Makers on Fire ( Ages 12+ | Week 2)

    • 26 Jun 2023
    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 10
    Register

    Learn to be an all-star maker! This course focuses on learning foundational maker skills: computer-aided design, laser cutting, computer game design, soldering, 3D printing and more. Become the swiss-army knife of young makers.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Introduction to Graphic Arts & Photo Tinkering (Ages 12+ | Week 2)

    • 26 Jun 2023
    • 30 Jun 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Crafter's Cove), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 10
    Register
    Unleash your inner graphic designer with this specialized bootcamp for the digital content creator. Learn to create and manipulate images while developing your digital skills in Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop. Become familiar with the tools the professionals use.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Become an Inventor! [Grades K-3 | Week 3]

    • 3 Jul 2023
    • 7 Jul 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 5
    Register


    An invention class built for the youngest set, these students will utilize their creativity to invent new vehicles, machines and more. This camp will introduce simple machines, gears and other mechanical ideas to your camper.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Micro-pets with Micro:bits (Grades 4-6 | Week 3)

    • 3 Jul 2023
    • 7 Jul 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register
    In this camp, campers use design, build and program behaviors for their own special best friend using Micro:bit. Will your student come home with a pet rock or new robot dog? Or maybe a robot Kraken? Only they will know! At the end of the week, students will take home a complimentary Micro:Bit set so the programming fun can continue.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Leather and Lasers (Ages 12+ | Week 3)

    • 3 Jul 2023
    • 7 Jul 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (The Studio ans Laser Lab), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    This camp meets at intersection of technology and art. Master both the craft of leatherworking and the technology of the laser cutter. Campers will build wallets, coasters, belts and more in this unique class offering.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Woodworking & Metalworking Boot Camp [Ages 14+ | Week 3]

    • 3 Jul 2023
    • 7 Jul 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media, Metal and Wood Shops), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    Go from 80 to 220-grit in this bootcamp for budding makers! Teens will learn how to safely use woodworking & metalworking equipment to make beautiful, functional objects ranging from cutting boards to furniture and artwork. Taught by experienced educator-makers, this is the premier camp for teens who want to learn shop skills. This year's projects include hanging lamps and outdoor chairs.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • RO: Introduction to Robotics [Grades 5 - 8 | Week 3]

    • 3 Jul 2023
    • 7 Jul 2023
    • 4 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Robotics Area), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register


    This camp will use the LEGO® SPIKE™ kits to introduce students to the engineering design process as it pertains to robotics. Campers will start each session by defining a problem and its success criteria. Then they will design and build a prototype, test it, and gather data that will allow them to improve their solution. All fostered by the spirit of cooperation and “gracious professionalism” that permeates all FIRST robotics activities. A great introduction to FIRST robotics principles for next year's Robotics Season!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: STEM Explorers (GIRLS ONLY) [Grades 4-6 | Week 4]

    • 10 Jul 2023
    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register
    Designed especially for young girls, this camp features robotics, coding, 3D printing and more. Campers will create animal habitats, code robotic animals, use CAD to design cookie cutters and build rocket cars.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Become a Dragon Tamer [Grades K-3 | Week 4]

    • 10 Jul 2023
    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register


    This camp is perfect for the young dreamers in your world. During this week the students will create their own stuffed best friend: a dragon! Full of activities such as how to design dragon-scale armor, sewing monster stuffies, and pop-up cards. Can your camper tame the dragon? Find out by signing up for this camp.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Movie-Making: Lights, Camera and Editing [12+ | Week 4]

    • 10 Jul 2023
    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Crafter's Cove), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    In this class, young content creators learn the hows, whys and most importantly, how to stay safe while developing online content. In an increasingly digital world, this course will help your teen develop their filmmaking and narrative skillset while also sharpening their critical thinking skills and awareness regarding the use of digital and social media.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: DIY Skateboard (PARENTS WELCOME) [12+ | Week 4]

    • 10 Jul 2023
    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    A dream project for parent and teen. Teens (and parents) will learn woodworking skills while building a small Lil Rockit, a small deck skateboard. Teens and parents will sand, finish and then decorate the skatedeck utilizing professional software and laser-cut stencils. Grab your brain bucket and thrash with your own custom board!

    Our base package includes material to build your own skateboard deck (wood, glue, grip tape, paint/varnish).

    The SKATEBOARD + PARENT package includes a complete skateboard (deck + trucks) at cost.  We also invite parents to join our class in the build - parents get a free woodworking camp!

    If you want to build a skateboard for yourself, sign up for our TWO BOARDS & PARENT.  Both parent and student walk away with a complete skateboard.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • RO: Robotics - Competition Ready [Grades 5 - 8 | Week 4]

    • 10 Jul 2023
    • 14 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Robotics Area), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register


    This camp will use the LEGO® SPIKE™ kits and the LEGO Education lesson plans to introduce students to the engineering process as it relates to competitive robotics. Campers will gradually learn the basics of building and programming robots that accomplish missions autonomously thanks to the input of sensors. Great preparation for FIRST robotics principles for next year's Robotics Season!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Survive the Suburban Wilderness [Grades 4-6 | Week 5]

    • 17 Jul 2023
    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register

     

    This camp focuses on the outdoor crafts of survivalists. Learn to lash sticks together to build structures, create paracord bracelets and belts, even learn to use a small knife while carving a spoon. All prototypes will be tested with walking field trips to local parks.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Become an Aeronaut [Grades K-3 | Week 5]

    • 17 Jul 2023
    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 10
    Register

     

    Take to the skies with this week’s theme! A focus on flight and space, campers will get to develop airplanes, water rockets, parachutes and more. Soar, glide, launch, fly, fling and fall with style!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Makers on Fire (Girls Only) [12+ | Week 5]

    • 17 Jul 2023
    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 10
    Register

     

    Learn to be an all-star maker! This course focuses on learning foundational maker skills: computer-aided design, laser cutting, casting, sewing, soldering, 3D printing and more.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Cosplay: Superheroes and Anime [12+ | Week 5]

    • 17 Jul 2023
    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Crafter's Cove), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register

     

    Learn the ins-and-outs of prop-making and cosplay. Campers will build a helmet, a cloak and props utilizing all the tools of a makerspace, such a as the laser cutter, the heat press, sewing machines, 3D printers and more. Whether it's Thanos's helmet, a One Piece slingshot, or your own invention, you can make during this camp.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • RO: Introduction to Robotics [Grades 5 - 8 | Week 5]

    • 17 Jul 2023
    • 21 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Robotics Area), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register


    This camp will use the LEGO® SPIKE™ kits to introduce students to the engineering design process as it pertains to robotics. Campers will start each session by defining a problem and its success criteria. Then they will design and build a prototype, test it, and gather data that will allow them to improve their solution. All fostered by the spirit of cooperation and “gracious professionalism” that permeates all FIRST robotics activities. A great introduction to FIRST robotics principles for next year's Robotics Season!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • RO: Robotics: Competition Ready [Grades 5 - 8 | Week 6]

    • 24 Jul 2023
    • 1:30 AM
    • 28 Jul 2023
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Robotics Area), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register


    This camp will use the LEGO® SPIKE™ kits and the LEGO Education lesson plans to introduce students to the engineering process as it relates to competitive robotics. Campers will gradually learn the basics of building and programming robots that accomplish missions autonomously thanks to the input of sensors. Great preparation for FIRST robotics principles for next year's Robotics Season!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Bridges, Trebuchets and Castles [Grades 4-6 | Week 6]

    • 24 Jul 2023
    • 28 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register

     

    Does your young maker dream of days gone by, when there were castles to defend, rivers to cross and bridges to raise? This camp mixes fantasy with civil engineering, as campers build catapults and trebuchets, bridges, castles and more. Raise the ramparts, defend the walls!

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Become a Wizard [Grades K-3 | Week 6]

    • 24 Jul 2023
    • 28 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    Register

     

    In this camp, students will learn all the ins and outs of the wizarding world, learning to make their own potions, slimes and wands. A great week of magic, crafting and storytelling, all seasoned with good old chemistry principles.

    If you register for this session, please READ your confirmation email for further information. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    Show details

  • MS: Build Your Own Arcade (PARENTS WELCOME) [12+ | Week 6]

    • 24 Jul 2023
    • 28 Jul 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register