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Youth Events Calendar

We recommend you start by visiting our makerschool website Nova Labs MakerSchool

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Upcoming events

    • 20 Apr 2024
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 6
    Register


    Wear your emotions!

    The participants in this class will make and take home a whimsical t-shirt similar to the ones in the photo. Makers will construct their own emoji using a variety of parts available.

    The class will offer a hands-on introduction to the Silhouette cutter and Silhouette Studio, its companion software. These tools are used to design and cut vinyl appliques for t-shirts, stickers, signs and more. Nova Labs offers three Silhouettes and they are classified as green tools. The instructor will also demonstrate the use of the heat press. 

    Younger children are welcome with an adult helper. Adult helpers should come prepared to help exclusively. Usually, it is not possible to help a young maker and make your own project in the same session

    Please include color and size choice with your early registration (at least three days before). There will be a limited selection of t-shirts for late registrations or you may bring your own blank pre-washed t-shirt.

    Price is per t-shirt making person. Adults helping children do not need to pay. 








    Maximum: 6 T-shirt making persons.

    Prerequisites: no previous sewing experience is needed

    Age requirement: 10+ or with an adult

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa is a maker educator. She has taught for the Nova Labs MakerSchool for the past three years.

    Class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.

    • 18 May 2024
    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • 6
    Register

    Make your own Little Furniture for a doll house, a Diorama, Fairy Garden or just for fun!

    During this class, attendees will assemble, glue and paint a set of small furniture. All the parts will be laser cut from thin plywood before the class. The participants will also get to use fabric and a sewing machine to manufacture small cushions or other accessories for the furniture. 

    The design process and how a laser works will be discussed. If time permits, makers will work on cardboard prototypes of their own invention. 

    Younger children are welcome in this class with an adult helper. Adult helpers should come prepared to help exclusively. Usually, it is not possible to help a young maker and make your own project in the same session.


    The price is per furniture set. Adults helping children but not building their own furniture do not need to pay.

    Keep a look out for more Little Furniture Classes in the future:  Bedroom Edition and Dining Room Edition!


    Maximum: 6 furniture-making persons. 

    Prerequisites: no experience is needed

    Age requirement: 8+ 

    Instructor: Fabiana Cesa is a maker educator. She has taught for the Nova Labs MakerSchool for the past three years.

    The class must have 3 participants sign up to run. If this does not happen those who have paid will be issued a full refund.


    • 10 Jun 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 14 Jun 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 21 Jun 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • 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.

    Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Wednesday in observation of Juneteenth on Jun 19, 2024.

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

    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 21 Jun 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register


    Arrgh, me mateys! This camp will turn yer landlubbers to pirates in no time. Activities will include learning to tie knots, making a foam boat, building a cardboard peg leg, and drawing treasure maps, all peppered with plenty of pirate games.

    Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Wednesday in observation of Juneteenth on Jun 19, 2024.

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

    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 21 Jun 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 4
    Register

      Back this year with all new projects! This camp is the ticket to becoming an all-star maker. Get ready to master essential skills like digital fabrication, laser cutting, soldering, 3D printing, and beyond. Transform into the ultimate Swiss-army knife of young makers as you ignite your creativity and hone your craft. For Teenagers (Ages 12-18)

     Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Wednesday in observation of Juneteenth on Jun 19, 2024.

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

    • 17 Jun 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 21 Jun 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    Design your style and personalize your stuff! Customize your clothes, bags, hats, or other items with a variety of makerspace tools. Explore 2D graphic design using open-source software and bring your designs to life with laser cutting, vinyl stickers, sublimation, and embroidery. Learn about branding, logo development, and graphic design while creating a digital brand portfolio and personalized merchandise. For Teenagers (Ages 13-18)

    Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Wednesday in observation of Juneteenth on Jun 19, 2024.

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

    • 24 Jun 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 28 Jun 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • 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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 24 Jun 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 28 Jun 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 24 Jun 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 28 Jun 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register

      

    Tailored for budding junior makers, this camp is designed for young enthusiasts eager to explore the wonders of a woodshop in a secure environment. Students will get hands-on experience with a variety of tools including drill presses, scroll saws, drills, hammers, and hand saws. They'll craft projects to proudly take home and cherish. For Teenagers (Ages 13-18)

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

    • 24 Jun 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 28 Jun 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     Students will direct, record and animate their own short stop-motion animation sketch. Makers will design and build a set using generative AI in combination with traditional design and fabrication tools. Then they’ll create their characters and animate them in a storyline. This class will allow creativity and self expression while also teaching skills of design, storytelling, digital editing, and animation principles. For Teenagers (Ages 12 to 18)

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

    • 24 Jun 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 28 Jun 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Robotics), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 1 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 5 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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.

    Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Thursday in observation of Independence Day on July 4, 2024.

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

    • 1 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 5 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    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.

    Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Thursday in observation of Independence Day on July 4, 2024.

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

    • 1 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 5 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

      Back this year with all new projects! This camp is the ticket to becoming an all-star maker. Get ready to master essential skills like digital fabrication, laser cutting, soldering, 3D printing, and beyond. Transform into the ultimate Swiss-army knife of young makers as you ignite your creativity and hone your craft. For Teenagers (Ages 12-18)

     Note that this camp is four sessions this week. Makerschool is closed on Wednesday in observation of Juneteenth on Jun 19, 2024.

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

    • 1 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 5 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

    Dive into the world of Cartoons and Comics! Campers will ignite their creativity using both digital and traditional tools to create their own cartoons and comics. Guided by experienced artists, they'll master the fundamentals of composition, line, color, and character development. Moreover, campers will explore how to utilize makerspace tools to transform their designs into a variety of formats such as comic books, zines, buttons, and more. For Teenagers (Ages 12 to 18)

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

    • 8 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 12 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 8 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 12 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • 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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 8 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 12 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Woodshop & Metalshop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 3
    Register

      

    In this intensive camp tailored for aspiring makers, elevate your skills from 80 to 220-grit! Teens will delve into the world of woodworking and metalworking, mastering the safe and proficient use of equipment to craft stunning and practical objects. Led by seasoned educator-makers, this premier camp offers a comprehensive learning experience for teens keen on honing their shop skills to perfection. For Teenagers (Ages 14-18)

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

    • 8 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 12 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     Make a statement on the runway! Campers will explore the world of accessory design, from hats to bags and everything in between. Using sewing machines, sublimation printing, laser cutting, and other maker tools, they'll design, sew, and personalize their creations. Along the way, they'll learn the basics of pattern reading and 2D design for laser cutting. With a focus on sustainable fashion and creative reuse, campers will engage in circular design principles. Unleash your creativity and add your unique twist to classic designs or invent the next big trend! For Teenagers (Ages 13+)

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

    • 8 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 12 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Robotics), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 15 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 19 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    Register
    End summer with a blast! Campers will engage in a variety of Mark Rober-inspired experiments and activities, from a test of elephant toothpaste, to the Nova Labs Air Rocket build challenge and mousetrap cars! Anything is possible!

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

    • 15 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 19 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 7
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 15 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 19 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (The Studio), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     Immerse yourself in the Nova Labs Studio for a week of artistic exploration. Perfect for art-loving makers, campers will unleash their creativity through crafting metal jewelry, experimenting with resin, mastering stained glass, and much more! Take pride in bringing home stunning handmade projects while getting hands-on experience with an array of tools available at the Nova Labs Studio. Teenagers (Ages 13+)

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

    • 22 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 26 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 2), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    Get rhythm! Campers will build a glorious cacophony of instruments, from shakers, flutes, ukuleles, tambourines and whatever else they can invent. Turn the volume to 11 and welcome to the MakerSchool of Rock!

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

    • 22 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 26 Jul 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Classroom 1), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

    Campers will embark on an exciting journey into the world of sustainable energy! From building solar ovens to designing wind turbines, campers will dive into the science and engineering behind renewable energy technologies. Through engaging experiments, scavenger hunts, and art projects, young minds will gain a deeper understanding of solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable energy sources. Join us for a fun-filled week of exploration, innovation, and environmental stewardship!

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

    • 22 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 26 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     This camp is designed for young makers aspiring to launch their own ventures. Participants will immerse themselves in the world of entrepreneurship through hands-on activities. They'll brainstorm innovative product ideas, refine them with prototypes, and grasp the essentials of design thinking. By week's end, they'll showcase their creations and present their plans for potential businesses. It's all about gaining practical skills and having a blast in the process! Recommended for campers going into 10th grade through 12th graders who have just graduated in 2024. For Teenagers (Ages 14 and above)

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

    • 22 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 26 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

    Teens will receive instruction from a professional artist experienced in creating public art within the DMV region. They'll explore the history and techniques of public art and engage in hands-on sessions to develop skills in woodcutting, painting, and sculpture. The highlight of the camp will be the collaborative creation of a woodcut and painted mural to adorn Nova Labs, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration. Don't miss this inspiring and collaborative adventure in public art! For Teenagers (Ages 13 and above)

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

    • 22 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 26 Jul 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Robotics), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 29 Jul 2024
    • 9:30 AM
    • 2 Aug 2024
    • 2:30 PM
    • 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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 29 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 2 Aug 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Robotics), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 6
    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 and the code to register for a second camp. Take action right away to ensure your space is reserved for your child.

    • 29 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 2 Aug 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Mixed Media Shop), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

    This camp is where technology and art collide! Campers will dive into the creative process, crafting accessories to wear and projects for everyday use and beyond. Experience the unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology in this one-of-a-kind class. For Teenagers (ages 12 to 18)

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

    • 29 Jul 2024
    • 12:30 PM
    • 2 Aug 2024
    • 4:30 PM
    • Nova Labs (Events Bay and Laser Lab), 3850 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
    • 8
    Register

     

    This camp is where technology and art collide! Campers will dive into the creative process, crafting accessories to wear and projects for everyday use and beyond. Experience the unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology in this one-of-a-kind class. For Teenagers (ages 12 to 18)

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

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Contributions are tax-deductible.