WeDo Robotics and Rock Climbing: Suggested Ages 6–9

Build your child’s first real LEGO robot, introduce them to simple coding, enjoy plenty of outside play, and (for full-day campers) climb real rock walls.

At a Glance

• 

  Suggested ages: 6–9
• Programs:
  • AM Robotics (no rock climbing)
  • Full-Day Robotics + Rock Climbing
  • PM Robotics + Rock Climbing
• Experience: Great for first-time coders and young builders who enjoy LEGO and story-based play
• Class size: Small groups with lots of individual attention
• Robot to keep: LEGO WeDo-style robot kit with motor, sensors, and hub (about $150 value campers take home to keep exploring)

What Campers Build

Campers start with familiar LEGO building and quickly discover that motors and sensors can bring their creations to life. Using a simple, picture-based programming environment, they build and code models that:

• move, spin, lift, and react to simple sensors
• respond to button presses, tilt, or distance
• follow simple “if this, then that” rules
• combine sound, motion, and lights into small stories or challenges

Some campers prefer to follow examples, others begin to improvise their own designs. We support both approaches and gently encourage campers to make at least a few choices that are uniquely theirs.

How We Use LEGO WeDo

We use LEGO and WeDo-style components as a mechatronics toolkit for young builders:

• familiar LEGO bricks make building approachable and playful
• motors and sensors introduce automation and feedback
• simple visual code blocks link “what they see on screen” with “what the robot does”
• structured challenges give a clear goal while leaving room for creativity

Program Options: AM, Full Day and PM

AM Robotics (No Rock Climbing)

The morning-only option is perfect for younger campers or those who are a firm “no” on rock climbing.

• 9:00 am drop-off at Sunward Cohousing
• LEGO WeDo building and coding right away (no seat work)
• mid-morning snack and outside play on the playground or playfield
• more challenges and building before noon pickup

Campers get a full robotics experience at a gentle pace, with plenty of play and movement.

Full-Day Robotics + Rock Climbing

The full-day program includes everything in the AM session, plus lunch, afternoon robotics, and two afternoons of rock climbing.

• 9:00 am drop-off at Sunward Cohousing
• morning robotics, snack, and outside play
• lunch and inclusive games
• afternoon robotics challenges and revisions
• two afternoons each week at Planet Rock (Tue, Thu)

Full-day campers have more time to deepen their projects, try variations, and gain confidence in both robotics and physical challenge.

PM  Robotics + Rock Climbing

The PM program is perfect for families looking for a slower start to the day and a way to include the Rock Climbing without the longer day. Includes everything in the Full-day session just not as many hours.

• 12:30 drop-off at Sunward Cohousing
• afternoon robotics challenges and revisions
• two afternoons each week at Planet Rock (Tue, Thu)

Skills Campers Practice

• basic coding concepts: sequence, loops, simple conditions
• linking cause and effect between code blocks and robot behavior
• simple engineering ideas: stability, bracing, balance, and gearing
• slowing down to test, observe, and try again
• asking for help and offering help to others
• handling small frustrations without giving up

Rock Climbing for Full-Day and PM Campers

Full-day and PM WeDo campers join the older groups for two afternoons each week at Planet Rock, with age-appropriate supervision and support.

• professional climbing gym with bouldering and top-rope routes
• basic safety orientation and harness fitting
• kids choose how high they want to go and can say “no” at any time

We treat climbing as “challenge by choice,” not a test. The atmosphere makes trying new things feel safer, and many campers discover they can do more than they expected once they feel supported and in control.

Locations and Times

Drop-off: 9:00 am every day for AM and Full-Day, 12:30 for PM

For a more detailed daily schedule, see the FAQ.

Who This Class Is Great For

• kids who love LEGO and building but are new to robotics
• younger campers who do best with a gentle, playful first experience of coding
• kids who are still gaining confidence in new groups and benefit from small classes
• campers who enjoy stories, imagination, and making things move
• families who want a solid foundation before moving on to Sumo Robotics or Arduino Lab in future summers

Still Not Sure If WeDo Robotics Is the Right Fit?

If you are unsure whether WeDo Robotics is the best match, you are welcome to visit a Sunday Sumo session at the workshop. You can see the space, meet Dr. George, watch robots in action, and take a quick look at the WeDo materials.

You can register now so you do not miss the current discount, and also reserve a Sunday visit. If after visiting it does not feel like the right fit, we will give you a full refund.

Questions?
Call or email with any questions about whether the AM or Full Day option is best for your camper.