Creative Lab

About the Camp

Creative Lab gives youth a chance to explore science, creativity, and design in one fun, hands-on experience. Campers will make their own bath and body products—like bath salts, scrubs, lip balm, soap, and candles—while learning about the simple science behind how things work. They’ll also spend time in our makerspace designing and pressing their own shirts or hoodies. It’s a relaxed, creative environment where curiosity and imagination lead the way.

Who Should Attend

This camp is for 4th–8th grade youth who love to create, experiment, and explore new ideas. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and imagination!

What Campers Will Do and Learn

Campers will explore the science of wellness through fun, hands-on projects that connect creativity with real-world science. Each session blends art, design, and problem-solving as youth experiment with materials and bring their ideas to life.

They’ll:

• Make their own wellness products, such as fizzy bath salts, scrubs, lip balm, soap, candles, and bath bombs.
• Design and press custom shirts or hoodies using digital design tools, a cutter, and a heat press.
• Practice creative problem-solving as they plan, test, and refine their projects.
• Build persistence and confidence by working through challenges and completing their work from start to finish.
• Strengthen teamwork and communication skills through group activities and shared projects.
• Develop a positive STEM identity by discovering that science, design, and creativity all connect.

Campers will take home everything they make—along with new skills, confidence, and pride in their work.

When and Where

Creative Camp meets for two sessions, from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM, with lunch and snacks included.
We’ll also be open Wednesday for drop-in time for campers who want extra time to finish projects or explore the makerspace.

NE STEAM Coalition Makerspace
3935 N Lombard St, North Portland

Daily Details for Parents

• Drop-off: 9:15–9:30 AM
• Pick-up: 2:00 PM
• What to bring: A reusable water bottle and clothes that can get messy.
• Materials: All supplies, tools, and safety gear are provided.
• Safety: Activities use non-toxic, age-appropriate materials with close adult supervision.

Cost

The camp is free and includes lunch and snacks each day.

Our Approach

Creative Camp is inclusive, culturally responsive, and designed to help youth build persistence, confidence, and curiosity. We create space for every camper to explore ideas, express themselves, and discover that STEM and creativity go hand in hand.