Youth Programs   

Are you ready to take your game design skills to another level? With Unity, an industry-grade design software, aspiring game designers will learn level editing, 3D modeling, impactful gameplay creation, as well as how to utilize scripts and variables. Student-created games will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14

*Compatible with MAC and Windows OS only and requires a 64-bit operating system.

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to play, please go here: https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

"3D SketchUp for Beginners: Teen Edition'' is a comprehensive, step-by-step introductory course designed for teens with little to no experience in 3D modeling. Those interested in interior design and architecture, even hobbyists and DIY enthusiast will find the course helpful; you will explore the world of 3D modeling and master the basics of SketchUp, a user-friendly and powerful 3D modeling software. Over the duration of the course, students will learn how to navigate the SketchUp interface, create and manipulate 3D models, apply textures and materials, and generate wonderful perspective views for presentation purposes. 

By the end of this course, students will have acquired essential skills in 3D modeling:  

• Proficiency in using SketchUp tools and commands.     
• The ability to create basic 3D objects and interior related elements and some  architectural components.     
• Techniques for applying materials and textures to models.     
• Methods for creating detailed and accurate 2D and 3D drawings.   
• The capability to produce high-quality 3D models for presentations and client proposals.

This course equips students with the foundational knowledge needed to confidently use SketchUp for personal projects, academic assignments, or professional tasks in interior design and architecture. 

This is a HYBRID course. You can join the class in person or on zoom, LIVE REMOTE. 

Materials:

1. Desktop PC or laptop with internet connection (computers will be provided for in-person students / or students can bring their own laptop)  
2. SketchUp Free web-based software (cost: free) : limited access to other features. Students should create an account through sketchup.com either before class or on the first day of session. 
3. SketchUp Studio for Students* : 1-year license download for only $55. This includes a Pro account meaning unlimited access to almost everything including 3d rendering. Students need to produce proof school registration. (*This is totally optional and depends on student's own preference)

Age Range: 15-18 are all welcome.

Explore the world of artificial intelligence to design fully interactive games and experiences using cutting-edge technology. This program combines artificial intelligence with coding to create an unforgettable learning adventure. Students will construct machine learning models that use image and text recognition within block-based coding software to build projects. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14      

 *Compatible with MAC, Windows, and Chrome OS. 

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to play, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Begin your rise to the top of the charts with digital music production! Just like today's top artists, you can design your own beats or remix a mashup of your favorite songs to become a digital composer and sound engineer. In this course, students will learn to produce digital music, record sound, make sound effects, and mix their own tracks. No prior music experience is necessary. Student-created soundtracks will be available on a password-protected website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14    

  *Compatible with MAC, Windows, and Chrome OS. 

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to play, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Fencing fun continues for those who have taken our introductory camp, either this summer or years past.  Welcome back to the wonderful world of fencing.  We will perfect your footwork and blade actions.  You will be introduced to the rules of competitive fencing.

There is a $20 equipment rental fee that is paid to the instructor on the first day.

Age range: 8-13

JavaScript covers JavaScript programming basics like conditions, looping, arrays, function, image animation, integration with HTML & CSS and logical development of games. Towards the end of this session, Students will develop one interactive game, learn about web hosting and also will be given the opportunity to upload their work online.

Prerequisite: None. All students will receive a USB drive at the end of the course to transfer all of their work from throughout this course.

Age range:10-15

Are you interested in taking the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), living or studying in Japan, or working in the animation and gaming industry? This class is for the academically inclined individual not afraid to take a deep dive into the complicated world of Japanese grammar, reading, and writing. We will cover both hiragana, katakana, and an introduction to Kanji. Let’s study Japanese!    

Instructor Belardino: The instructor is half Japanese, lived in Japan for almost twenty years, is credentialed, and is a certificated language teacher. She is also a member of the American Association of Teachers Japanese and the California Association of Japanese Language Teachers.    

Required Books: Genki 1 Third Edition: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese 1 Textbook & Workbook Set   

The textbook introduces the Japanese language in a manner that is extremely easy to understand. If you have any sort of disability, please let the instructor know, and she will be more than happy to accommodate your needs.

Age range: 14+

Please note: This is a live remote class. You will meet on zoom during the scheduled days and times. The instructor will email the zoom link and important information before the first class meeting. Any sort of recording, either via Zoom or third party software, is strictly prohibited for this course. Thank you for your understanding. Her goal is to transform the “remote” environment into a safe, engaging, space where students can freely ask questions, and have an enjoyable learning experience. She does request that all students who sign up for her classes turn their cameras on to optimize the virtual learning experience.

Java is an established, popular, and cross-compatible programming language. In this course, students will be exposed to all of core Java programming and will be introduced to concepts such as object-oriented programming principles and will gain a strong foundation on the language. This course will cover the topics of variables, loops, conditions, classes, void methods and GUI programming widgets such as buttons and labels. Beginners welcome!

Age range: 12-16 

Our classic game design camp reimagined to include even more of what you love! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that gives you the keys to designing your first 2D platformer game. Conceptualization, level design, graphics, sounds, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we’ll explore. No prior experience is necessary, just a desire to have fun! Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14 

 *Compatible with MAC, Windows, and Chrome OS.

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to purchase, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

If you love the game Minecraft and always wanted to design your own world, this class is for you! Learn how to create a custom map, design structures to share between worlds, build with Redstone and Command blocks, and create custom textures for you to import at home or share with friends. Students must have the Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14

Online is compatible with MAC and Windows OS only. Purchase Minecraft Java Edition

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to play, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Bring your favorite Minecraft adventures to life with our enthusiastic Play-Well instructors. In a Minecraft world powered by LEGO® resources, we will build shelters to keep out Creepers, craft mystical items that only true masters can wield, and perfect our crossbow skills to stop the Wither from taking over! If you can imagine it, we can build it. 

Age range: 7-12

Register here: https://tinyurl.com/mr3curn6

Customize your own Minecraft world and mod the classic game in this one-of-a-kind class. Learn scripting and logic statements as you create your first mods. Students will create a wide variety of new elements, gameplay mechanics, and world-generating mods to change the way you play Minecraft. Projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students must have the Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. 

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14   

*Compatible with MAC & Windows OS only and requires a 64-bit operating system.  Purchase Minecraft

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to purchase, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Unlock your child’s potential in the digital world with Mobile Application Development for Beginners! This exciting course invites students to step into the role of young app developers, using intuitive, beginner-friendly platforms like MIT App Inventor. In this fun and hands-on learning experience, students will explore the fundamentals of app design, create engaging user interfaces, and bring their ideas to life through interactive mobile functions. Beyond coding, participants will develop valuable skills in design thinking and problem-solving, empowering them to build, create, and innovate. This course offers the perfect blend of creativity and technology, sparking enthusiasm in your child's tech journey and laying the groundwork for future success in the digital age.

Skills Developed: App development, design thinking, creativity, user interface, programming basics.

                                                            Age range: 11 -18

The “Procreate Beyond Basics” is designed for artists who are ready to take their digital illustration skills to the next level. This course dives deep into Procreate's advanced tools and techniques, teaching students how to create complex compositions, customize brushes, and utilize professional-level workflows. Participants will explore in-depth methods for digital painting, including blending modes, masking tools, and layer effects, to produce polished and detailed artwork. By the end of the course, students will have the skills to elevate their digital art projects and build a standout portfolio. Ideal for artists looking to push their creative boundaries and achieve mastery in Procreate.

The prerequisite for the Procreate Advanced Class is a "Procreate for Beginners" or "Procreate Fundamentals" course. Students should already be familiar with the basic tools and features of Procreate, such as, navigating the interface; gesture controls; basic drawing and painting techniques; using selections and transform tools; importing and exporting files in Procreate. This foundational knowledge will ensure that students are prepared to dive into the more advanced techniques covered in the class.

Age range: 12+: Procreate is suitable for users of all ages. It can be beneficial to a wide range of individuals, but it is particularly valuable for artists and designers, students and beginners, creative professionals, tech-savvy individuals, hobbyists and enthusiasts.

Course Materials:

• Apple iPad + Apple Pencil
• Procreate app installed on your ipad, priced at $12.99 (one-time purchase): Please note that the app works only on Apple iPad and must have an Apple Pencil, too. The app is not compatible on other tablet, chromebook or laptop.

Course modality: This is a hybrid course, meaning you can join in-person or live remote. 

Calling all future coders! This course is the perfect launchpad for your child's coding journey in Python, a powerful and fun programming language. What will your child learn? The Basics of Python: Master variables, functions, strings, and loops – the building blocks of any Python program. Decisions, Decisions!: Learn how to write code that makes choices using conditional statements (like "if" statements). Loops for Fun!: Discover loops, a powerful tool for repeating tasks automatically, making coding more efficient. Coding in Real-Time: Write code and see the results instantly in a real-time programming environment. Why choose this course? Learn by Doing: Your child will gain hands-on experience through engaging mini-projects and a final project that tests their newfound skills. Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Coding is a fantastic way to teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills that benefit kids in all areas of life. Spark Creativity: Python opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing your child to build interactive games, animations, and more! Get a Head Start: Learning Python now prepares your child for success in a world increasingly reliant on coding. Kids with no coding experience are ready for a fun and engaging introduction to Python. This course provides a strong foundation for your child's coding journey, empowering them to become future programmers and tech innovators!

Age range: 10-15

Want to learn the world's fastest-growing programming language favored by Google and NASA? Discover how to code with Python using accessible web-based platforms that guide students through a series of daily lessons. Build fundamental tech literacy while creatively solving software engineering challenges! Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program, and their work can be saved on a password-protected website to share with friends and family.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14 

  *Compatible with MAC, Windows, and Chrome

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to purchase, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Unlock the power of ROBLOX® Studio, the world creation tool used by real-world ROBLOX® developers! Learn how to build 3D models and create an adventure in your ROBLOX® world. Bring characters to life with unique animations you design. Student-created projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Ages: 8-11 and 11-14  

*Compatible with MAC and Windows OS only.

Please note: We partnered with Black Rocket to provide this course. By enrolling, you are subject to their refund policy.

Course price: $139-$179, depending on length of the course

To see the schedule for this course, to register, and to play, please go here:https://blackrocket.com/online/lpc/ 

Looking to relieve stress from the demands of work or school? Are you a DIY lover eager to explore a new creative outlet? Then dive into the amusing world of air dry clay art! You'll learn the techniques to sculpt and arrange stunning, handcrafted summer arrangements that will adorn your festive interior. This course is for beginners and intermediates, both teens and adults. You will be guided through the main tools and materials needed to create air dry clay projects and will learn basic sculpting and coloring techniques. By the end of the course, you will walk away with exquisite, handmade summer arrangements.

You will come away from this course having learned:

• Prime Material: air dry clay
• Sculpting Tools and Materials
• Clay Handling Techniques
• Coloring
• Assembling

Age range: Adults and teens ages 12 and over are welcome; class size is limited to 10 to ensure individualized guidance and a collaborative learning environment.

Materials fee: $10 (cash or check) due at the beginning of class

This is a portrait workshop for students aged 13 to 18. Students will create two portraits - one in pencil or charcoal and the other in oil paint. With the guidance of local artist and art educator Thomasin Dewhurst, students will practice creating a likeness, shading and blending, proportion, composition, color-mixing, impasto painting, glazing, scumbling. Your instructor will include a step-by-step demonstration as you learn.

The materials fee of $6 includes all of the tools, references and supplies that you will need during the workshop. This is due to the instructor the first day of class. Cash only.

There will be a 30-minute break between the drawing and the painting session.

Age range: 13 to 18