This summer, the Reading Science Center invites students to spend their days experimenting, solving problems, and uncovering how science connects to the world around them. Each camp blends hands-on investigation with creativity and collaboration—giving students the space to ask questions, test ideas, and think like real scientists.
July 27 – 31, 2026
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
8 – 11 years old
$325 per child
August 3 – 7, 2026
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Girls 12 – 14 years old
FREE
July 27 – 31, 2026
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What does it take to change the world? At Reading Science Camp this summer, students explore not just the science behind major discoveries—but the people, ideas, and moments that made them possible. Throughout the week, campers learn how scientists ask questions, design fair experiments, and work together to solve problems. Using stories from across history as inspiration, they take part in hands-on lessons that bring science to life.
Biographies from across the world and across history will be our basis for hands-on experiments: construct an ancient Egyptian water-clock, recreate Galileo’s gravity experiments, and play your part in a whole-group NASA simulation.
Explore the surprising and unforgettable moments behind science, from how Einstein survived a near-drowning, to the nearly half-a-million people who worked together to land humans on the Moon, to the intense rivalry of the “Bone Wars,” where paleontologists competed through sabotage and discovery. Campers step into these stories using imagination, creativity, and hands-on activities that bring history and science to life through doing, not just watching.
Each day, campers have dedicated time to explore the Reading Science Center exhibits. From sparking electricity and experimenting with motion to getting a closer look at microscopic organisms, vision, insects, and the science of sound and music, the exhibits offer a wide range of ways to experience science in action. This unstructured exploration allows students to follow their curiosity, revisit favorite activities, and make personal connections to the science concepts they are learning in camp.
Camp times: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Ages: 8 – 11 years old
Cost: $325 per child
Drop off: 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Pick up: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Meals: Two snacks and lunch provided each day
Registration & Payment Deadline: July 1st
Limit 25 participants
August 3 – 7, 2026
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Built for curious minds and future problem solvers, this camp gives girls a chance to explore science in a way that feels real, relevant, and theirs. Designed to spark confidence and curiosity in STEM, Girls Inventing the Future Summer Camp is a five day experience for girls entering grades 7-8. Throughout the week, campers take part in hands-on STEM activities, collaborative challenges, and conversations with women working in STEM fields today. Each day encourages girls to explore new ideas, connect science to real world careers, and see new possibilities for themselves in STEM.
Hands On STEM Challenges
Work together to take on creative STEM challenges, test ideas, and solve real world problems through experiments and interactive activities. From designing solutions to trying, failing, and trying again, campers build teamwork and problem solving skills while exploring science in fun and unexpected ways.
Meet Women in STEM
Meet women who are actually working in science, technology, engineering, and math careers today. Throughout the week, campers will hear from three IF/THEN® Ambassadors who will share what they do, how they got there, and what it’s really like to work in STEM. Girls will have the chance to ask questions, hear real stories, and explore exciting career paths they may have never considered before.
Exhibit Exploration
Spend time exploring the Reading Science Center exhibits, including the IF/THEN® Collection, where science comes to life through interactive experiences and stories of women in STEM. Campers can explore their favorite exhibits, discover new interests, and connect what they are learning to the world around them.
Camp times: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Ages: Girls entering grades 7-8
Cost: FREE
Drop off: 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Pick up: 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Meals: One snack provided each day
Registration Deadline: July 1st
Limit 12 participants
Girls Inventing the Future Summer Camp is made possible through support from the IF/THEN® Champions Network.
Registration will open soon
Registration for Reading Science Camp opens soon—stay tuned for details on how to secure your child’s spot.
Check back here for updates!
Reading Science Center
645 Penn Street
Reading, PA 19601
Filling out the registration form does not guarantee your child a spot in our summer camp. We have limited availability, and spots are secured only upon payment. After completing the form, you will receive an invoice via email. Your child’s spot will be officially reserved once payment is received. All payments must be received before July 1, 2026.
Lunch will be provided for all participants in Reading Science Camp. In addition, one daily snack will be provided for both Reading Science Camp and Girls Inventing the Future Summer Camp.
Families are responsible for indicating any food allergies or dietary restrictions during the registration process. This information helps staff plan and provide safe options for all campers. While we make every effort to accommodate reported needs, we recommend that families of children with severe allergies consider sending a packed lunch and/or snack as an added precaution.
For the safety of all campers, children will only be released to individuals listed on the approved pick-up list provided by a parent or guardian at the time of registration. The person picking up the camper must be included on this list.
Staff may request a valid photo ID at pick-up to verify authorization. Campers will not be released to anyone not listed on the approved pick-up list under any circumstances. Parents or guardians must update the camp team in advance if changes to the pick-up list are needed.
Make the most of your Reading Science Center experience by becoming a member! Members enjoy discounts on events, along with year-round benefits like unlimited admission, discounts on merchandise, and savings at local restaurants.
Members receive 10% off on camps!
We’re preparing to open our newly expanded exhibit space, bringing even more opportunities for families to explore, experiment, and learn together! To support these exciting additions, updated admission and membership pricing will take effect on July 1, 2026. Click below to learn more about the expansion and upcoming pricing changes.