This summer, Carver’s SONO Summer Camp at the South Norwalk Neighborhood School is buzzing with curiosity, creativity, and chlorophyll! From July 1 to August 8, 2025, children ages 5 to 13 are diving into the exciting world of soil-free gardening through a dynamic, hands-on science program: Garden 101: Hydroponics in Action.
Running weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM (with extended day options until 5:30 PM), this journey introduces Carver campers to the science and sustainability of growing plants in water instead of soil. Designed for students in grades K–8, the hydroponics curriculum makes STEM learning tangible, joyful, and incredibly green.
So… What Is Hydroponics?
Hydroponics is the practice of growing plants in a nutrient-rich water solution rather than traditional soil. With the help of containers, oxygenating air pumps, and nutrient monitoring, students learn how roots can thrive in a water-based environment, with some systems even built by the students themselves!
Each Week, A New Scientific Adventure:
Week 1: Setting the Stage – Students build a safe, inclusive, and curious science classroom culture.
Week 2: What Is Hydroponics? – Campers explore and compare hydroponics with traditional gardening.
Week 3: Soil-Free Survival – A deep dive into how roots, stems, and nutrients work in a hydroponic setup.
Week 4: Tracking and Troubleshooting – Students take on the role of real scientists, monitoring plant health and environmental variables.
Week 5: Harvest and Reflect – The grand finale includes harvesting greens, presenting findings, and celebrating growth—of both plants and minds.
What Campers Gain:
STEM Mastery – Real-world science through inquiry and experimentation
Science Journaling – Daily reflections build vocabulary and observation skills
Life Skills – Collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving
Environmental Awareness – A hands-on introduction to sustainability and innovation
Bilingual materials, interactive journals, and age-appropriate lessons ensure that every child is engaged, inspired, and empowered to grow—both figuratively and literally.
By summer’s end, Carver’s young learners don’t just leave with leafy greens—they walk away transformed into confident, curious young scientists, ready to keep growing long after the school bell rings.
Stay tuned for more stories from across Carver’s summer programs serving more than 1,400 students across Norwalk and Bridgeport!