Majors by Category
Many students will attend both major and minor classes. Students attend the same major class Monday–Thursday mornings and all day Friday, and attend a different minor class Monday–Thursday afternoon. A few classes are all day every day majors as noted in individual class descriptions.
Participants will be placed in classes with students of similar ages. Age limits may be adapted as enrollment progresses. Class sizes are limited in space and fill quickly. We encourage early registration.
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Art
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
Amy Schroeder
In this class, students will create our very own masterpieces, trek though nature and explore science in the outdoors. We will use clay, paint, and other art materials to create art. Join us as we explore the marsh, forest, and trails on this exciting adventure. Gear up for a week of games, play-based learning, and fun while we capture the beauty around us!
Ages 10+
Students will experience various techniques specific to clay with both guided and free expression time as well. Students will leave with a foundation of how to make both sculptural as well as functional ceramic art this is glaze fired. All experience levels are welcome!
Ages 8 - 12
We will explore immediate diverse habitats, such as the woods, prairie, marsh and river. We’ll take our sketch books with us making nature notes and then return to our barn to explore the amazing forms and colors of nature. We will also work from a diverse set of scientific specimens including preserved turtles, frogs, fish, mud puppies, and crayfish We take them out of their jars and can get up close and personal using them as inspiration for both drawing, watercolors and sculptural work in self-hardening clay. We will also have other natural history specimens such as bones, skulls, dried plants, seeds and pods, and marine specimens to provide inspiration
Ages 10+
Students will use a variety of fiber arts with an emphasis on the importance of reducing pollution by repurposing materials from “trash” and using natural and non-polluting dyes. The class will learn about the power of the slow arts – not just as a technique, but as a philosophy that fosters patience, connection and mindfulness. Students will be encouraged to slow down, engage with their materials thoughtfully, and make something both beautiful and purposeful from the world around them. By the end of the week, students will have various projects to bring home and we will work on a class project together, often inspired by the class itself as their mindful moments often allow for expanded creativity! Ages 10+
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
This class is an introduction to the Sun Foundation. Children will develop an appreciation for nature’s beauty and an understanding of their connection with the environment. Students will complete fun art projects, learn about nature, hike, play games, visit the marsh and look for fossils in the dry creek bed.
Leigh Klein
Ages 7-10
Students will work in a variety of mixed media: drawing, painting, printmaking, weaving, paper mache, clay, cardboard and natural materials to create 2D & 3D art. They will learn about other mixed media artists and cultures who use these methods for creating art. The ultimate goal being to create and have fun!
Ages 10+
This class offers students the opportunity to collaborate on creating a large-scale mural. Participants will learn various mural-making techniques, including design planning, surface preparation and painting methods. The class emphasizes teamwork, creativity and the practical aspects of bringing a mural from concept to completion.
Ages 7–11
Have you ever wondered if fairies, gnomes, Bigfoot or other mythological creatures really exist? In this class we believe! Campers will spend the week exploring the many mythological creatures that live deep in the forest. Students will make art in clay, painting and found objects. They will also learn basic skills of tracking, camouflage and wild edible herbs through games and stories. Of course, camp wouldn’t be complete without some games, songs and creating a mythological creature of their own.
Ages 10+
Discover the art of patchwork and bring your creative ideas to life! In this class you can design custom patches, create a patchwork hat, dye and personalize a T-shirt, or craft a unique bandana. Feel free to tackle one project or explore them all! We’ll start with a simple sketch to plan your design. From there, you’ll use fabric paint and hand sewing techniques to make your vision a reality. This class is open to all skill levels – whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there’s something for everyone.
Ages 10+
Connie Andrews
You will be guided in drawing and sculpting the different features of the face in the first couple days. Then we will put what you have learned together and you’ll get to create a portrait sculpture that you’ll be able to take home. We will take nature breaks to explore the area and visit the sites that Sun Foundation has to offer as well.
Pee Wee • Ages 5–7
The youngest among us often notice the WONDER-full details of the natural world. This major is for those who love to make amazing discoveries right before their eyes! Join us as we explore the forest, marsh, grassland and creek. We’ll draw big inspiration from small wonders, like a caterpillar’s stripes or water flowing over pebbles – to sketch, paint and sculpt artistic treasures. There’ll be lots of games too. Come play and create with us!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Culture
Ages 7-11
Using African Djembe drums, Native American frame drums and over 100 other world drums & hand percussion instruments, we will learn about the connections between rhythm and nature and people around the world. We will explore the marsh & forest learning their unique sounds, put stories to music, play rhythm & movement games, make our own instruments and create a giant camp-wide drum circle. This is a fun/experiential rhythm class, not performance/precision drum instruction. Musical background is absolutely NOT necessary!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Nature
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
Amy Schroeder
In this class, students will create our very own masterpieces, trek though nature and explore science in the outdoors. We will use clay, paint, and other art materials to create art. Join us as we explore the marsh, forest, and trails on this exciting adventure. Gear up for a week of games, play-based learning, and fun while we capture the beauty around us!
All Day Major • Ages 13+
More than a game, Coyote Warriors builds upon a foundation of athletics to teach young people about teamwork, conflict, work ethic, awareness and maintaining a healthy mind and body. This course is about building confidence in teens. By facing hard work and struggle in a fun environment, we equip students with tools to better prepare for work and school beyond nature’s classroom. Coyote Warriors relies upon an ancestral understanding of team sports blended with modern science and a hint of the spiritual. It is a chance to escape the contemporary world, examine ourselves in nature, and return to the challenges of modern life with new training for adulthood. Ironically, these lofty ideals are achieved through not trying too hard, from the ground up . . . from a foundation that starts with lots of running and team rivalry.
Ages 8 - 12
We will explore immediate diverse habitats, such as the woods, prairie, marsh and river. We’ll take our sketch books with us making nature notes and then return to our barn to explore the amazing forms and colors of nature. We will also work from a diverse set of scientific specimens including preserved turtles, frogs, fish, mud puppies, and crayfish We take them out of their jars and can get up close and personal using them as inspiration for both drawing, watercolors and sculptural work in self-hardening clay. We will also have other natural history specimens such as bones, skulls, dried plants, seeds and pods, and marine specimens to provide inspiration
Ages 8-12
Spend a week exploring the Sun Foundation’s natural spaces and the living things that build healthy ecosystems! In addition to plenty of hiking and science-based field activities, we’ll also build a mini museum collection of our favorite findings and research how they contribute to our environment.
Ages 8-12
We will explore the Sun Foundation property, looking for native reptiles and amphibians. We will show you how to find and identify animals. We will discuss what they eat and how to take care of them. You’ll get to catch, touch and hold them. Plan to get hot, wet and dirty! Please make sure to wear clothes that are appropriate. Class will be all day on Wednesday.
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
This class is an introduction to the Sun Foundation. Children will develop an appreciation for nature’s beauty and an understanding of their connection with the environment. Students will complete fun art projects, learn about nature, hike, play games, visit the marsh and look for fossils in the dry creek bed.
Ages 8-12
This class provides an introduction to a fascinating world that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Children will learn how to use several different types of microscopes. They will learn to sample, identify, and develop microscopy skills while studying the samples brought back from different sites.
Ages 10+
This class offers students the opportunity to collaborate on creating a large-scale mural. Participants will learn various mural-making techniques, including design planning, surface preparation and painting methods. The class emphasizes teamwork, creativity and the practical aspects of bringing a mural from concept to completion.
Ages 7–11
Have you ever wondered if fairies, gnomes, Bigfoot or other mythological creatures really exist? In this class we believe! Campers will spend the week exploring the many mythological creatures that live deep in the forest. Students will make art in clay, painting and found objects. They will also learn basic skills of tracking, camouflage and wild edible herbs through games and stories. Of course, camp wouldn’t be complete without some games, songs and creating a mythological creature of their own.
Ages 10+
Discover the art of patchwork and bring your creative ideas to life! In this class you can design custom patches, create a patchwork hat, dye and personalize a T-shirt, or craft a unique bandana. Feel free to tackle one project or explore them all! We’ll start with a simple sketch to plan your design. From there, you’ll use fabric paint and hand sewing techniques to make your vision a reality. This class is open to all skill levels – whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there’s something for everyone.
Pee Wee • Ages 5–7
The youngest among us often notice the WONDER-full details of the natural world. This major is for those who love to make amazing discoveries right before their eyes! Join us as we explore the forest, marsh, grassland and creek. We’ll draw big inspiration from small wonders, like a caterpillar’s stripes or water flowing over pebbles – to sketch, paint and sculpt artistic treasures. There’ll be lots of games too. Come play and create with us!
Ages 7-11
Fish, Birds, Bugs, Bones and Boulders! Every day is an adventure! Spend Monday with John James Audubon catching, drawing and banding migrating birds. Tuesday we will meet Charles Darwin and catch bugs, explore geology and evolution. Wednesday is a day of fishing with Louis Agassiz. Thursday we will track animals, learn medicinal herbs, play Native Games and eat wild plants with Meriwether Lewis. Friday we will put it all together publishing our findings in an instant book that celebrates the wild life of the Sun Foundation!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Performance
Ages 8-14
This year campers will learn, rehearse and perform in the world premier of “Bananular! The Banana Phone Musical”. Students will learn audition skills before auditioning and being cast in a musical production that will be performed at the end of the week. Throughout the class students will learn and develop skills in music, improvisation and acting. This class will be an all-day major Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – so students will only have minors on Monday and Wednesday. STUDENTS MUST BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN FRIDAY EVENING PERFORMANCE!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Science
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
Amy Schroeder
In this class, students will create our very own masterpieces, trek though nature and explore science in the outdoors. We will use clay, paint, and other art materials to create art. Join us as we explore the marsh, forest, and trails on this exciting adventure. Gear up for a week of games, play-based learning, and fun while we capture the beauty around us!
Ages 8-12
Spend a week exploring the Sun Foundation’s natural spaces and the living things that build healthy ecosystems! In addition to plenty of hiking and science-based field activities, we’ll also build a mini museum collection of our favorite findings and research how they contribute to our environment.
Ages 8-12
We will explore the Sun Foundation property, looking for native reptiles and amphibians. We will show you how to find and identify animals. We will discuss what they eat and how to take care of them. You’ll get to catch, touch and hold them. Plan to get hot, wet and dirty! Please make sure to wear clothes that are appropriate. Class will be all day on Wednesday.
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
This class is an introduction to the Sun Foundation. Children will develop an appreciation for nature’s beauty and an understanding of their connection with the environment. Students will complete fun art projects, learn about nature, hike, play games, visit the marsh and look for fossils in the dry creek bed.
Ages 8-12
This class provides an introduction to a fascinating world that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Children will learn how to use several different types of microscopes. They will learn to sample, identify, and develop microscopy skills while studying the samples brought back from different sites.
Ages 10+
Rocketeers will build rockets made of common household materials. They will learn basic equations of rocket thrust, stability and trajectory. Then they will launch their rockets and evaluate the performance.
Pee Wee • Ages 5–7
The youngest among us often notice the WONDER-full details of the natural world. This major is for those who love to make amazing discoveries right before their eyes! Join us as we explore the forest, marsh, grassland and creek. We’ll draw big inspiration from small wonders, like a caterpillar’s stripes or water flowing over pebbles – to sketch, paint and sculpt artistic treasures. There’ll be lots of games too. Come play and create with us!
Ages 7-11
Fish, Birds, Bugs, Bones and Boulders! Every day is an adventure! Spend Monday with John James Audubon catching, drawing and banding migrating birds. Tuesday we will meet Charles Darwin and catch bugs, explore geology and evolution. Wednesday is a day of fishing with Louis Agassiz. Thursday we will track animals, learn medicinal herbs, play Native Games and eat wild plants with Meriwether Lewis. Friday we will put it all together publishing our findings in an instant book that celebrates the wild life of the Sun Foundation!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Survival Skills
All Day Major • Ages 8-12
This class is for younger students interested in learning survival skills. The focus of this class will be to learn experientially as we discover our innate woods wisdom and deepen our relationship with ourselves, one another and the earth. We will make fires by rubbing sticks together, learn shelters, how to purify water, basic tracking and practice awareness exercises. We will be spending time immersed in nature, playing in the creek and learning about the local flora and fauna.
All Day Major • Ages 12+
This class is for older students interested in learning or fine tuning survival skills. We will practice skills such as fire, shelter, cordage and tracking while immersing ourselves in the woods of the farm with awareness practices and games. We will learn natural camouflage and rely on the interdependence of the class community as we learn how to stalk animals and move across the landscape quietly without disturbance.
All Day Major • Ages 13+
More than a game, Coyote Warriors builds upon a foundation of athletics to teach young people about teamwork, conflict, work ethic, awareness and maintaining a healthy mind and body. This course is about building confidence in teens. By facing hard work and struggle in a fun environment, we equip students with tools to better prepare for work and school beyond nature’s classroom. Coyote Warriors relies upon an ancestral understanding of team sports blended with modern science and a hint of the spiritual. It is a chance to escape the contemporary world, examine ourselves in nature, and return to the challenges of modern life with new training for adulthood. Ironically, these lofty ideals are achieved through not trying too hard, from the ground up . . . from a foundation that starts with lots of running and team rivalry.
Ages 7–11
Have you ever wondered if fairies, gnomes, Bigfoot or other mythological creatures really exist? In this class we believe! Campers will spend the week exploring the many mythological creatures that live deep in the forest. Students will make art in clay, painting and found objects. They will also learn basic skills of tracking, camouflage and wild edible herbs through games and stories. Of course, camp wouldn’t be complete without some games, songs and creating a mythological creature of their own.
Ages 7-11
Fish, Birds, Bugs, Bones and Boulders! Every day is an adventure! Spend Monday with John James Audubon catching, drawing and banding migrating birds. Tuesday we will meet Charles Darwin and catch bugs, explore geology and evolution. Wednesday is a day of fishing with Louis Agassiz. Thursday we will track animals, learn medicinal herbs, play Native Games and eat wild plants with Meriwether Lewis. Friday we will put it all together publishing our findings in an instant book that celebrates the wild life of the Sun Foundation!
Jump to: Art | Culture | Nature | Performance | Science | Survival Skills | Pee Wee
Pee Wee
These classes are for young children who are ready to spend full days at camp. Students must have completed kindergarten before attending camp. Children will remain with their major class groups all day and may be visited by other instructors in the afternoons. All classes will expose children to both art and science activities shared by professionals who are passionate about what they teach! These classes fill quickly so register early if interested!
Please note: If you have a “mature” 7 year old you could check out class listings for a couple of other options for that age group.
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
Amy Schroeder
In this class, students will create our very own masterpieces, trek though nature and explore science in the outdoors. We will use clay, paint, and other art materials to create art. Join us as we explore the marsh, forest, and trails on this exciting adventure. Gear up for a week of games, play-based learning, and fun while we capture the beauty around us!
Pee Wee • Ages 5-7
This class is an introduction to the Sun Foundation. Children will develop an appreciation for nature’s beauty and an understanding of their connection with the environment. Students will complete fun art projects, learn about nature, hike, play games, visit the marsh and look for fossils in the dry creek bed.
Pee Wee • Ages 5–7
The youngest among us often notice the WONDER-full details of the natural world. This major is for those who love to make amazing discoveries right before their eyes! Join us as we explore the forest, marsh, grassland and creek. We’ll draw big inspiration from small wonders, like a caterpillar’s stripes or water flowing over pebbles – to sketch, paint and sculpt artistic treasures. There’ll be lots of games too. Come play and create with us!