DISCOVERY SUMMER 2025

REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 18!

Our summer camps bring together chess, STEAM, and the joy of discovery in an engaging, hands-on environment.

Each camp is designed to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning through activities that blend multiple intelligences, appealing to visual, kinesthetic, and auditory learners alike.

Our unique approach goes beyond the classroom, incorporating the beautiful surroundings of Stony Point Park. Campers enjoy summer movies, splash pad fun, and interactive sessions that make learning feel like an adventure. With a growth mindset, we encourage campers to tackle challenges and view mistakes as stepping stones to growth.

Our summer camps empower each child to explore the exciting worlds of science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and chess—creating a season filled with discovery, creativity, and pure fun.

DISCOVERY SUMMER

Ages 5–7: Building Curiosity and Confidence

Our Discovery Summer Camps for ages 5–7 are designed to spark curiosity and build confidence through hands-on activities and engaging discovery zones. Kids will explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) and chess in a safe, inclusive environment with programs that combine learning and play.

Why Choose Us?

  • Tailored for Younger Minds: Camps include age-appropriate activities such as catapult building, marble runs, LEGO engineering, and beginner chess basics.

  • Power to Choose: With themes like Space Tech Trek and Math in Motion, kids can pick what excites them most and take pride in their own discoveries.

  • Low Ratios, High Support: A low director-to-counselor ratio ensures every camper gets the attention they need to feel confident and supported.

  • Dedicated Spaces: Each group has their own discovery zones, fostering a sense of belonging and safety.

  • Swag Alert: Campers who join for 9–11 weeks will receive a free swag bag with a t-shirt and fun STEAM-based items!

✨ Early Registration Incentive
Register between January 18–March 15 to save $100 on each camp!

🌟 Special Deal for Legacy Families
If your child has attended any of our RVA camps at St. Christopher’s, Sabot, Weinstein JCC, or a Discovery Chess Camp, we’re waiving the registration fee—applied retroactively!

DISCOVERY SUMMER

Ages 8–11: Empowering Discovery and Creativity

For kids ages 8–11, our summer programs are all about empowering campers to design their perfect summer while exploring new skills and interests. With STEAM and chess-based camps like Catapults, Cannons, & Chemistry and Blitz Chess & Cubes, kids will engage in hands-on learning with plenty of opportunities to shine.

What Makes Us Unique?

  • Independent Exploration: Themes encourage kids to solve challenges, build creations, and boost their chess strategies.

  • Inclusive & Safe Spaces: Kids can recharge in quiet zones when needed while still enjoying high-energy discovery zones like the LEGO Wall and RC Tonka Pit.

  • Team Interaction: Campers work with the same counselors and group throughout the summer, fostering friendships and teamwork.

  • Field Trips & Fun: Weekly outings to Stony Point Fashion Park, including splash pad visits and CineBistro movies, keep things exciting.

  • Swag Bag Bonus: Register for 9–11 weeks to receive a free camp swag bag filled with STEAM and chess goodies!

✨ Early Registration Incentive
Register between January 18–March 15 to save $100 on each camp!

🌟 Special Deal for Legacy Families
If your child has attended any of our RVA camps at St. Christopher’s, Sabot, Weinstein JCC, or a Discovery Chess Camp, we’re waiving the registration fee—applied retroactively!

DISCOVERY SUMMER

AGES 12 - 14

From the Desk of Coach Rhonda!

Alright, here’s the deal. I know camp might not be at the top of your summer wish list. But this isn’t “camp” like you’re thinking. This is a place where you get to call the shots, learn stuff that’s actually cool, and hang out in a space where no one’s going to force you to do trust falls (seriously, we don’t do those).

Here’s what’s waiting for you:

  • Antisocial Anonymous: Hate small talk? Perfect. This camp is all about quiet fun, retro games, and activities where no one’s looking over your shoulder.

  • Dystopian Books Survival Challenge: Feel like testing your survival skills in a world gone wrong? Solve puzzles, escape challenges, and prove you’ve got what it takes to outsmart the apocalypse.

  • STEAM Mixologists 101: Mix stuff, shake stuff, and create wild projects that are part science and part art.

  • Plus, camps where you can build rovers, design cities, level up your chess skills, or just game with people who get it.

Here’s the bonus: You’ll stick with the same group all summer, have plenty of space to chill when you need it, and leave with skills you didn’t even know you wanted. Oh, and if you’re here for the long haul (9–11 weeks), the swag bag is yours—filled with stuff you’ll actually use.

Why Choose Discovery Center Camps?

Because it’s not just camp—it’s your camp.

  • For every age group, we keep things small and personal. Our low counselor-to-camper ratio means you’ll never feel lost in the crowd.

  • We’ve got discovery zones where you can play, create, or just relax if you need a break.

  • Every week is different, so you’ll never get bored.

  • And for parents? You’ll love knowing your kids are in a safe, inclusive space where they’re not just having fun—they’re growing, learning, and building confidence.

So what do you say? Let’s make this summer unforgettable—whether you’re building, gaming, exploring, or just enjoying the ride. Registration opens January 18th. I can’t wait to see you there!

With excitement,
Coach Rhonda