Camp Invention: Where Kids Build Robots and Dream Big

In Bourbonnais, a summer camp that began 16 years ago has become an annual adventure for young minds. This week, 145 kindergarten to sixth‑grade students gathered at Liberty Intermediate School for a week of hands‑on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) projects.

🎉 Highlights of the Week

• Fur‑ensics Unit – A quirky feature where robotic capybaras taught kids how to analyze evidence and solve mysteries.
• Take‑Home Robots – Students kept their creations, such as the “Cap E. Bara” robots, when camp ended on Friday.

Growth & Community Impact

• Repeat Campers – Teachers notice that returning campers grow more inventive each time.
• Future Leaders – One teacher’s oldest daughter is training to become a counselor, while nine‑year‑old Lila praised the capybaras as her favorite part of camp.
• Scholarships – Community sponsors helped 30 kids receive scholarships, illustrating the town’s strong support.

From Campers to Counselors

Many counselors are former campers who love sharing their experience. A 19‑year‑old, now studying to be a pediatric physical therapist, says the camp keeps her science passion alive and teaches her how much kids enjoy presenting their inventions to families.

Transition of Leadership

The camp’s founder, a local teacher, has retired after 16 years and passed the role to a new leader. Her legacy continues as the program grows, driven by community support and passionate educators.