PD Day Camps in Calgary | Fun and Educational Camps at TELUS Spark
AGES 5-12

PD Camps

Days off, or days of science?

Price

$78 per Camper (GST included)

Spark Members receive 10% off

Times

Camp Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Drop-off: 8:00 - 9:00 AM

Pick-up: 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Age Groups

Camps for young science minds between ages 5-12.

OCTOBER 25 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Bat Buddies

Bats are an incredible support to our world’s ecosystems, from acting as pollinators to supporting both the propagation and suppression of insect populations. Learn how these amazing animals intersect with the world around them while building a working bat model and creating your own “guano” art piece.

  • AGES 7-8

Winged Wonders

It’s a bird… it’s a plane… not, it’s an incredible Bat Flying through the night sky! In this camp we’ll learn about how bats take flight and make our own bat flyers. Then we’ll research Myotis vivesi (a bat that eats fish) and design and build claw grabbers that emulate this bat’s effective and elongated feat.

  • AGES 9-12

Echo Explorers

Bats are the second largest order of mammals by number of species on our planet which give us an exciting landscape to research and explore. In this camp we act as field scientists and dive deep into the world of bat taxonomy. Then we’ll shore up our design and construction skills through building bat boxes to support these dynamic and ecologically important creatures.

NOVEMBER 1 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-7

Pollinator Pals

Bats are an incredible support to our world's ecosystems, from acting as pollinators to supporting both the propagation and suppression of insect populations. Learn how these amazing animals intersect with the world around them while building a working bat model and creating your own “guano” art piece.

  • AGES 8-11

Night Flyers

It’s a bird… it’s a plane… not, it’s an incredible Bat Flying through the night sky! In this camp we’ll learn about how bats take flight and make our own bat flyers. Then we’ll research Myotis vivesi (a bat that eats fish) and design and build claw grabbers that emulate this bat’s effective and elongated feat.

NOVEMBER 8 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Keeping Cool

Why do animals change color in the winter and how do they stay warm during the coldest months of the year? In this camp we will explore winter animal adaptations while we create winter camouflage art and build an insulated animal den and test its thermodynamic properties.

  • AGES 7-8

Fair Weather Friends

Should I stay or should I go now, and what will happen if I do? In this camp we will explore why some woodpecker species migrate, while others don’t and build a wobbling woodpecker toy that utilizes the forces of friction to activate. Then we design and build bird feeding suet balls and discover how best to support our feathered friends who stay close for the winter.

  • AGES 9-12

Whale of a Tale

In our oceans and lakes live dynamic stories on how fish and aquatic mammals travel large and harrowing routes during their annual migrations. In this camp our budding engineers will study and construct miniature fish ladders designed to support spawning salmon as they travel over man-made river hazards. Then they’ll work together in teams in our whale rescue engineering challenge designed to emulate the struggle to support and take care of beached whales.

NOVEMBER 29 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Frosty Flights

Inspired by the season, our young explorers will soar into the wintery wonders of science! In this frosty-themed camp, kids will discover the secrets of snowflakes and develop fine motor skills by weaving their very own icy creations. After mastering the magic of snow, they'll take to the skies by learning about aerodynamics and air pressure to design and launch their own flying reindeer models. It's a day of snowy science and high-flying fun!

  • AGES 7-8

Chemis-Tree Creations

Our Lab will be busier than Santa’s workshop as our campers explore the chemistry behind some of their favourite holiday toys and gifts. In this festively fun camp kids will delve into the world of polymers by crafting their very own bouncy balls. Then they’ll take their experimentation further as they assemble their own fizzy and fragrant bath bombs. Tis the season for giving and the best gifts are always created through the wonders of science.

  • AGES 9-12

Merry Mechanics

Get ready for a holiday season filled with hands-on learning and creativity in Merry Mechanics! In this engaging camp, your child will explore the fascinating world of currents and thermodynamics, all while diving into the magic of the holidays. They'll apply their newfound knowledge to design and build a seasonally inspired working candle carousel. It’s the perfect blend of festive fun and educational discovery, designed to ignite their curiosity and engineering skills!

JANUARY 31 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Planetary Possibilities

In this exciting camp, your young explorer will dig into Earth's geology by creating a hands-on model of our planets magma-nificent layers. Then, they'll embark on a cosmic adventure, learning about the diverse planets in our galaxy before designing a planet of their very own. It’s a perfect blend of science and creativity that will inspire a love for the wonders of our universe!

  • AGES 7-8

Space Rocks!

Blast off into Space Rocks!, where young astronauts and space geologists discover the wonders of space and paleontology! Kids will experience why humans outshine rovers as they practice paleontology techniques while digging out edible alien fossils in our mars rock cookie sample activity. They’ll also rocket into space science by designing and building their own stardust collector satellite model, learning how satellites help us understand the chemical makeup of our solar system. It's a stellar adventure combining science, creativity, and a dash of delicious discovery!

  • AGES 9-12

Going the Distance

Join us for Going the Distance, where your child will journey through the vastness of space and uncover the secrets of measuring astronomical distances! In this engaging camp, kids will experiment with the math behind parallax angle observations, exploring how we gauge the distances to far-off stars and planets. They’ll then put their knowledge to the test by designing and building an adjustable distance planet viewer, discovering how the size of objects changes based on how far away they are. It's a hands-on adventure that brings the wonders of space down to Earth!

FEBRUARY 13 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Surface Sorcery

Step into the world of Surface Sorcery, where your child will uncover the magic of science through hands-on experiments! In this captivating camp, kids will explore the wonders of repulsion by creating electrostatic levitator plates that "suspend" tinsel in mid-air. They'll also dive into the mesmerizing world of surface tension with a magical milk experiment, discovering how soap can break surface tension to create stunning visual effects. It's a day full of scientific enchantment that will spark curiosity and wonder!

  • AGES 7-8

Magical Matter

This camp is for budding young magicians ready to discover the science behind their favorite magic tricks! In this enchanting camp, kids will explore the wonders of friction, surface tension, density, and so much more! To add a touch of flair to their magical repertoire, campers will design and build their own bouncy rabbit toy that can leap out of a magician's hat. It's a spellbinding mix of science and fun that will leave your child amazed and eager to perform!

  • AGES 9-12

Topography Tricksters

Step behind the magicians curtain and discover the science behind mind-bending magic! In this exciting camp, campers will experiment with topography to master and perform simple rope tricks, while also diving into the world of optics and cognitive bias. They’ll then learn how to manipulate our senses and create stunning illusions, culminating in the creation of their own Ames window optical illusion to take home!

FEBRUARY 14 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Density and Deception

Dive into the world of buoyancy and density through hands-on experiments that make science fun! Campers will design a boat that floats on water, then discover the magic of SF6 as they create a tinfoil boat that appears to float in mid-air. They'll also explore the fascinating properties of liquids by creating mini density columns that always settle into distinct layers, no matter how much they're shaken. It's a day of scientific discovery that will captivate and inspire!

  • AGES 7-8

Chemistry Conjurors

From peppers ghost to perspective driven drawings, math, optics and science have been utilized to fool and blow the minds of audiences across the world. In Chemistry Conjurors, campers will make drawings that suspend and float, projects that appear in midair, and cycling chemical reactions that “magically” change color as the reaction takes place. Campers will also practice measuring with rulers and drawing with precision in order to created 2D drawings that become 3D when viewed at the right angle.

  • AGES 9-12

Illusion Engineers

In this captivating camp, your child will discover the fascinating science and engineering behind optical illusions and trick photography! We will begin by mastering the art of creating optical illusions through precise measurements and Zentangles. In the afternoon, our campers will experiment with camera angles, exposure, and aperture to produce dazzling trick photography. It’s a day filled with creativity, precision, and mind-bending fun that will inspire and amaze!

FEBRUARY 28 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Puddles and Pals

Launch feet first into the wonders of weather! In this playful camp, your little one will explore the magic of rain, wind, and rainbows through hands-on activities. They'll experiment with clouds and precipitation in our exciting rain lab, and even get to build their own anemometers to take home. It’s a day full of discovery and fun that will spark their curiosity about the world around them!

  • AGES 7-8

Storm Chasers

Unleash your child’s inner meteorologist in Storm Chasers, where they’ll adventure into the thrilling world of storms and tornadoes! In this action-packed camp, kids will create their very own tornado in a jar, learn how to identify and analyze different types of clouds, and build a barometer to track weather changes at home. It’s an electrifying adventure into the science of storms that will leave them eager for the next forecast!

  • AGES 9-12

Brain-Storm!

Why is the sky blue during the day, but a variety of colors at sunset? Why do rainbows only appear in the sky during certain weather events but not others? In this camp we are going to experiment with the physics of light and build our own spectrometers that will allow us to see rainbows wherever we go. We’ll also dig into the science of temperature and build our very own thermometers that we can take home.

MARCH 7 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-7

Stormy Weather

Get ready for a wild weather adventure! Campers will start by exploring the wonders of precipitation and experimenting in our hands-on rain lab to discover how raindrops form and fall. Then, they'll crank up the excitement by exploring the science behind extreme weather, like tornadoes, and even create their own tornado in a jar to take home. It’s a thrilling day of discovery that connects the calm before the storm with the power of nature’s most intense phenomena!

  • AGES 8-11

Tech & Temperature

Discover the wonders of Tech and Temperature in this thrilling camp adventure where science and technology collide! Kids will explore light refraction in our blue-sky emulator, uncovering how atmospheric conditions create that beautiful blue sky. They’ll then build their own spectrometer to split light into a stunning array of colors, bringing a full rainbow to any setting. To cap it all off, they'll create a barometer to learn how pressure changes affect weather events. It’s a fantastic blend of tech, temperature, and hands-on experiments that will spark excitement and curiosity!

MAY 16 PD CAMPS

  • AGES 5-6

Molecular Munchies

The three states of matter have never tasted so delicious during this day of edible experimentation. Campers will learn about how temperature plays a part in making some of their favourite treats in our Slushie Making Science program. In the afternoon they explore the wonders of polymer chains as they create their own edible playdough to sculpt and even eat.

  • AGES 7-8

Building Better Bites

Ignite your child’s culinary curiosity and confidence in a day at camp where delicious science meets sunny innovations! We’ll start by unraveling the magic behind making boba for bubble tea, discovering the chemistry that turns simple ingredients into chewy polymer pearls of delight. Then, we’ll turn our attention to the power of the sun, as kids build their very own solar ovens, transforming sunlight into heat to create ooey gooey s’more treats. It’s a day of mouthwatering experiments and solar-powered fun that will inspire and excite young scientists!

  • AGES 9-12

Pickling Under Pressure

Level up your child’s culinary skills using the power of pressure and experimentation. How does the chemistry of different ingredients affect the creation of the perfect pickle? Can we utilize engineering and the science of heat and pressure to speed up our pickling process? In this camp your child will embrace the scientific process to create their version of the perfect pickle.

Spark's one-day fun-tastic science camps are designed to build real skills (using real tools, btw) and create lasting connections with science!

Each camp includes hands-on STEAM-related activities, an Infinity Dome show and time to explore Spark galleries. Please have the following details ready when you book:

  • Member ID (if applicable)
  • Camper's name
  • Alberta Health Care Number
  • Camper's date of birth
  • List of allergies, medical conditions, special needs
  • Emergency contact information
  • List of authorized individuals to pick up child from camp

Changes or cancellations:

A fee of $25 will apply for cancellations up to two weeks prior to your camp start date. There will be no refunds issued after that date.

More Information

    • What are Spark PD Camps all about?

      Spark's PD Day Camps focus on themed hands-on science, technology, engineering and art activities, exploring exhibits, Infinity Dome Theatre shows, live science demonstrations and outdoor adventures. The days are all about the process; we get a little messy, but we learn new skills and take some exciting risks along the way to build confidence. Play is essential for healthy growth, so we mix organized games and free play time into every day at camp.

    • How do I know if Camp programs at Telus Spark are a good fit for my child?

      At Telus Spark we theme our camps around Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math topics and design fun and hands on experiences that your child can learn through. An affinity for these topics is a good start but Spark makes sure that the programs appeal to a wide variety of interest and learning needs.

      2-3 hours every day is also spent in the galleries and outdoor spaces. Please note that these spaces are considered busy public spaces and as such will require more of your child than other camps that operate in private spaces away from the public. Therefore, there are two main guidelines all children, regardless of age, need to be able to follow in order to remain safe and have fun in our camps. Those guidelines are:

      1. They need to be able to follow the verbal instructions provided to them by their camp leader. This includes following the behaviour expectations set for them at the beginning of the day and throughout the day at camp.

      2. They need to be able to stay with their group at all times.

      Repeated incidents that show that a child is not able to follow one or both of these guidelines will lead to a conversation with their guardian about their ability to remain at camp. These conversations are focused primarily around safety. If it is clear that remaining at camp is not a safe choice for a camper or those around them, that camper may be asked to leave or go home early.

    • Can I send someone else to pick up my child?

      Parents/guardians are required to have documented the name, phone number and relationship of who will be picking up their camper on the sign in/out sheet. The name provided much match the government issued ID presented by the person picking up the child. Add an alternate pick-up person by calling or emailing Spark from a number/email address that we have on the Camper’s file, or by adding someone to the camper’s file on the morning of drop-off. Camp staff will not allow an adult that's not listed on your camper’s file to take the camper home. Picture ID is required for all adults picking up campers.

    • Do I have to pay for parking when picking up and dropping off my child?

      The first 45 minutes of parking is free for parents and caregivers dropping off and picking up campers! Simply activate a free 45-minute parking session at the ParkPlus terminals near the front doors. Beyond this time limit, parking is a $10 flat fee for the day...but remember, all Spark Members receive free parking year-round!

    • Can I pick up my child early?

      If a parent/guardian requires taking their camper out early for any reason, just let the camp leaders know in the morning at drop-off. When arriving for early pick-up, please check in with the front desk staff who can help locate your child’s camp.

    • Do we need to arrange transportation for camps at other locations around the city?

      Should a camp include an off-site location, Spark arranges all off-site transportation for the campers. That cost is already included in your registration fee.

    • What is your policy on aggressive behaviour?

      Spark works hard to ensure that camps are an amazing experience for everyone, from staff to campers and other visitors. Part of that commitment requires that we ensure no child disrupts the enjoyment or safety of the other campers through ongoing aggressive behaviour, bullying, the use of inappropriate language or other disruptive actions. Spark actively monitor these behaviours and, after appropriate steps are taken with the parent, may request a camper leave the camp altogether.

    • Where should we drop campers off upon arrival?

      A camp staff or volunteer will greet parents and campers on the first day of camp and help you locate your camper’s room. It is required that campers be dropped off by their designated guardian at their classroom space for every day they are attending camp.

    • What should my child bring/wear?

      Please ensure that your child is dressed for the weather forecast. We often run programs outdoors if the weather permits and we always include an outdoor recess in the Brainasium Outdoor Park. Please dress for a bit of mess as well; we suggest you bring an extra set of clothes for younger campers in case your child gets their clothing wet while experiencing activities at water tables. You won't need to send any supplies with the campers, other than two snacks (for morning and afternoon breaks) and a lunch. When packing a lunch and snacks for your child, please ensure that they are peanut-free.

    • What time do camps start and end?

      Camp hours are 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. with complimentary before (8AM-9AM) and after (4PM-5PM) care.

      Once signed up for Camp, you do not need to register for our complimentary before or after care. Please know that it’s available if you need it.

    • What if my child is under the recommended age for the program?

      Spark strives to ensure that all campers get the most out of their experience. Our camps are designed and tested to be challenging enough only for the specified age range. Spark is happy to allow campers to attend any camp, provided they turn the minimum age required by the first day of camp. Campers under 5 years old tend to find our full day camps too challenging, so we encourage parents of kids under 5 to check out the half day camp options at some of the other camps in the city.

    • When should we arrive?

      No later than 8:50 AM is recommended to check in and find your room! Camp staff will be able to assist with sign-in promptly at 9:00 AM. Telus Spark Science Centre offers complimentary care from 8AM - 9AM. Campers can be dropped off any time in that window.

      Please allow a bit of extra time for drop-off on the first morning as collecting forms and confirming information can slow things down – we thank you in advance for your patience.

    • What happens during a PD day Camp?

      Bring your completed form(s) with you and know which camp your camper is in. Spark has many camps that run concurrently, and more than one camp theme for the same age groups, so knowing where you are headed helps speed up the morning sign-in process. When you arrive, there will be signs and staff to help you find your Campers camp room. There you will meet your child’s camp leaders and they will assist you in signing in your camper.

      Once drop off is complete, your camper will experience a full day of exploration and activities. On every PD day we spend time in our galleries and outdoor spaces, have more focused group learning during two classroom programs connected to your camp theme, and watch one live science demo or dome show. Each camp day also includes time for lunch as well as a morning and afternoon snack break.

    • What if I'm late picking up my child?

      Please be prompt and contact Spark at 403-703-8929 or 403-852-4308. If a camper is not picked up by 5:15 PM, and Spark is unable to contact a guardian, child services will be contacted. Telus Spark Science Centre offers complimentary after care between 4PM-5PM.

    • Are electronic devices permitted at the Camps?

      Spark requests that all electronic devices (including mobile phones, iPods, tablets, cameras and gaming consoles) be left at home to avoid loss or damage.

    • When is payment required?

      Payment in full is required at the time of booking. Refunds are available for cancellations up to two weeks prior to a camp start date, but a $25 administrative fee will apply.

    • What is the refund/cancellation policy?

      If a cancellation occurs less than two weeks before the scheduled camp, a refund may not be applicable. However, in specific cases, such as illness or unforeseen situations, please reach out to Spark directly to discuss potential solutions. All refunds will be issued in the form of a Spark Gift Card unless the Management team decides otherwise.

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