2025 Christmas Vacation Bootcamp #1 (8-12 Yrs.): Dec. 22-24, 2025

(Bilingual camp taught in a combination of Dutch and English by a native Dutch-speaking teacher. A number of subsidized spots are available for kids from low-income families with a Stadspas.)

Theme: Robot Animals Come to Life

During this NewTechKids school vacation bootcamp of 3 daily workshops held at the Amsterdam Public Library, kids ages 8-12 will learn about biomimicry (how robots are designed to mimic animals and plants) before designing, building and coding a series of robot animals which help us understand the animal kingdom and the environment.

Using LEGO robotics kits, kids will design, build and code robots in pairs using their imagination and creativity and then present them to their peers and parents at the end of each day.

Kids will dive into building and visual programming using LEGO Mindstorms and art supplies. They’ll learn about design concepts (resources, requirements, testing, iteration, best practices) and computer science concepts (coding, algorithms, commands, loops, sequence, iteration, if-else logic, etc.).

Our camp is ideal for children with no previous exposure to design and computer science and those who have previously participated in NewTechKids programs. Girls and boys are welcome!

Classes will take place everyday from 10:00 – 14:00 on the following dates:

December 22, 23 and 24, 2025

This bootcamp will be taught in a combination of Dutch and English by a professional teacher with specialised training in computer science. The curriculum and workshops are based on NewTechKids’ pedagogy which focuses on concept-context learning and the use of tangible learning tools.

A morning drink and snack will be provided. Children are required to bring their own lunches, including utensils and cups.

Location: Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam, Oosterdokskade 143, Junior Lab in basement (5-minute walk from Centraal Station)

Regular Fee: €178.632 (includes VAT and Eventbrite registration fee)

Fee for Children with Stadspas: €15 (includes VAT and Eventbrite registration fee)