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BrainPlay: OU Summer Camp for Young Minds
BrainPlay: OU Summer Camp for Young Minds
Where Children Discover the Science Behind Play
June 22-26, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
June 22-26, 2026 • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Ages: Children entering 1st-5th grade
Ages: Children entering 1st-5th grade
Cost: $400 per child
Cost: $400 per child
Hero Description
Hero Description
An extraordinary five-day summer experience where children discover how playfulness and creativity are essential for healthy brain development. Through engaging activities and child-friendly explanations, participants learn the importance of taking care of their brains through play and creative expression.
What Makes BrainPlay Unique?
Child-friendly neuroscience: Kids learn about their own brain development in age-appropriate ways
Diverse play experiences: From building challenges to creative arts, movement exploration to collaborative problem-solving
Research-based activities: Every activity is designed to support healthy neural development
Expert facilitation: Led by University of Oklahoma faculty and play-based learning specialists
Small group size: Limited to 18 participants for personalized attention
Program Details
Program Details
What's Included:
Daily snacks and drinks
All activity materials and supplies
Personal brain journal
Custom camp t-shirt
Take-home resource packet
End-of-week showcase participation
What to Bring:
Lunch each day (refrigeration available)
Water bottle for refilling
Comfortable play clothes
Positive attitude and curiosity!
Behavior Expectations & Requirements:
This camp is designed for children who can function independently in a group setting with standard supervision ratios. Participants should be able to:
Follow basic instructions and safety guidelines
Care for personal needs with minimal assistance
Engage with others respectfully
Function in a group setting without specialized support
While we embrace diverse learning styles and personalities, we are unable to provide specialized behavioral support or one-on-one assistance. If you have questions about whether this environment will be suitable for your child, please contact us before registering.
Daily Themes & Activities (Click for More Information)💡
Daily Themes & Activities (Click for More Information)💡
Monday: Brain Basics & Building Play
Discover how construction play builds neural pathways
Lego challenges and block building adventures
Introduction to "brain journals" for documenting discoveries
Tuesday: Movement & Risk Play
Learn how physical activity strengthens brain function
Obstacle courses and balance challenges
Quadrupedal movement exploration and safe risk-taking
Wednesday: Mindful Play & Sensory Exploration
Explore how focus activities support brain health
Zentangling and sensory play stations
Mindfulness games and relaxation techniques
Thursday: Creative Expression & Art Play
Experience how creativity expands cognitive flexibility
Watercolor, clay sculpture, and mixed media art
Music and dramatic play exploration
Friday: Collaborative Play & Showcase
Understand how social play strengthens critical thinking
Group challenges and team-building activities
Special Showcase (3:00-4:00 PM): Families invited to see children's creations and demonstrations
Registration Information
Registration Information
Deadline: June 1, 2026
Payment Due: June 5, 2026
Space Limited: 20 participants maximum
Ages: Children entering grades 1-5 in Fall 2026
Payment Policy
Payment Policy
Registration fee: $400 per child
Payment required to secure spot
Full refund if minimum enrollment not reached
Non-refundable otherwise, but transferable to another participant
Special Features
Special Features
Deconstruction Station: Take apart everyday objects to discover how things work
Cultural Play Explorations: Spinning tops from around the world, bread-making from different cultures
Brain Care Strategies: Children develop language to advocate for their right to play
Take-Home Resources: Brain journals, activity guides for families
Camp T-Shirt: Custom BrainPlay shirt included
Frequently Asked Questions❓
Frequently Asked Questions❓
Q: What if my child has food allergies? A: We'll send detailed forms after registration to document any allergies or dietary restrictions.
Q: What happens if it rains? A: All activities have indoor alternatives, and we have access to covered outdoor spaces.
Q: Can my child attend if they're not yet reading independently? A: Absolutely! Activities are designed for mixed-age groups and varying skill levels.
Meet Our Team
Meet Our Team
Dr. Erin Casey - Lead Facilitator, OU Faculty specializing in play-based learning
Jennifer Berube - Co-Facilitator, Trainer for New Hampshire's Playful Learning Initiative
Student Assistants - OU graduate students trained in child development
Location
Location
Institute of Child Development (ICD) Building, University of Oklahoma Campus, Norman
Institute of Child Development (ICD) Building, University of Oklahoma Campus, Norman
Child Care Center, 2727 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73072
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