Game Camp Nation — Local services in Waltham

Our son attended Game Camp Nation at Waltham this summer. The organizers, particularly Philip, are comically disorganized. While the kids have a good time (mostly because they're just literally "left to their own devices" and that's all the kids need to have a good time) the organizers of the program can't communicate effectively with parents, can't keep to a schedule, can't follow through on things they say they will do, can't organize equitable accommodations for the kids, and even lost two separate care packages we sent our child (after we checked and they told us we could send them). Additionally, it would appear most of the "sessions" impart very little practical knowledge.

If you'd like to send your kids to a camp where a bunch of 30-year-old indoor children play video games with your kids for two weeks, and you don't actually expect them to learn anything, do anything, or even receive anything, then this is a perfect camp. However, if you as a parent expect what you expect of other camps for teens, you will be severely disappointed....

My son has attended this camp for three years, and each session has been an outstanding experience for him. He's learned game theory and coding. He's made great friends he keeps in touch with throughout the year. This year, he followed the leadership track so that he'll be a counselor in training next summer, and I can't believe how much he learned and grew in two weeks. It is the highlight of the year for him, and it's a lot more than just a fun couple of weeks - it's an incredibly valuable social and learning experience. I'm impressed with how thoughtfully camp is organized (there's plenty of no-tech time and physical activity) and how efficiently it's run. It's just been an extremely good experience...

Our son has attended both the day camp and the overnight camp and has had an absolute blast every time. Game Camp is not only teaching important technology skills but social skills as well. The curriculum is designed so that the kids get a great balance of technical and non-technical exposure. Not only do they spend time focused on game and system design, they swim, play basketball, board games and socialize. They truly make learning STEM academics fun and exciting for everyone! Game Camp's instructors are dedicated and have a true passion for teaching. We would and have highly recommended the Game Camp experience...