A Summer Enrichment Program
World of Wonder (WOW) is a summer academic enrichment program at Bradley University designed to provide a variety of challenging, engaging courses for students entering grades 1 – 9.
Students may choose to take one, two, or three classes during the week. Our curriculum features courses in multiple disciplines that promote collaboration and experiential learning, including language arts, social sciences, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math).
Dates:
July 14- 18, 2025
Ages:
1st – 9th grades
Cost:
$109 per Class
Recreation $40 for the week
Each student will receive a t-shirt
Bradley faculty and staff receive 10% discount
Programs
For students entering 1st grade; Students may take one, two or three classes.
The Sweet Science of Chocolate
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1101 (Rachel Nichols)
Embark on a deliciously fun journey into the world of chocolate with a class that integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) principles into hands-on chocolate-themed activities. We’ll explore the science of melting and solidifying chocolate with solar oven s’mores, experiment with temperature changes by making hot chocolate, and uncover the chemistry behind chocolate slime and play dough. Plus, we’ll indulge in a sensory exploration through taste tests and even design our own chocolate bar with a personalized wrapper!
Wacky Wonders of Science
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1102 (Kennedy Pacey)
Are you ready to dive into a week of messy, exciting, and unforgettable science adventures? Join us for an action-packed week filled with hands-on experiments that will make your imagination run wild! Each day is a new adventure as we mix, smash, and create together! From explosive volcanoes and colorful slime to crazy rocket launches, we’ll explore the wonderful world of science together. Get ready to splash, squish, and experiment your way through wacky projects that will leave us giggling and learning all week.
Beyond Cat in the Hat!
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1103 (Kennedy Pacey)
There is much more to Dr. Seuss than Cat in the Hat! Get excited about Oh, the Places You’ll Go when we construct parachutes and mazes. Ask yourself, If I Ran the Zoo, what would your animals look like? With Hop on Pop, we will experiment with rhyme and how you can make a bouncy ball bouncy. Of course, we need to create Oobleck and maybe some other slimy solutions to make Bartholomew proud. Put your red and white striped hats on and, together, we will create, read, perform, draw, and experiment with all things Seuss.
For students entering 2nd grade; Students may take one, two or three classes
Wild Wonders: Exploring the Great Outdoors
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1201 (Lyndsey Forney)
Get ready for an exciting journey into the wonders of nature. Together, we’ll discover fascinating facts about animals, insects, and the great outdoors. We’ll learn all about camping essentials, from the supplies we need to fire safety tips for a fun and safe adventure. Our days will be filled with hands-on activities like building tents, going on a camp scavenger hunt, and creating nature-inspired crafts. And of course, enjoying delicious s’mores! Come explore, learn, and have a wild time with us
Adventures of Cervantes
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1202 (Carolyn Sutton)
In this class, we will read through The Bookstore Mouse and join Cervantes (the mouse) on his adventure. Along the way, we will meet ogres and dragons and learn a lot about the importance and power of words. We will discover which words can be sharp or dangerous, and which words can paint pictures. We will practice learning and understanding new words as well as harnessing the power of words in our own stories.
CMonster Sound Lab: Exploring the Power of Noise
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1203 (Estela Quintera)
Get ready to make some noise! We’ll explore the exciting world of sound—just like the monsters in Monsters, Inc.! We will learn how sound is made, how it travels, and how different pitches and volumes work. Through fun activities like making sound waves with cups and string, creating our own monster sounds, and building simple instruments, we will discover the science of sound in a playful way. By the end of the week, we’ll have a new understanding of the science of sounds all around us!
For students entering 3rd grade; Students may take one, two or three classes.
Disney Imagineers: Imagine, Design, Create
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1301 (Cara Payne)
Explore the wonderful world of Disney and step into the shoes of an honorary Imagineer! In this class we’ll tackle engineering challenges, discover the talented artists behind your favorite movies and theme park rides, and unleash your creativity through hands-on projects. We’ll also build a portfolio of drawings and designs to jumpstart your journey as an illustrator or future imaginer. Get ready to dream, design, and bring your imagination to life.
The Wild Robot Adventures in Writing
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1302 (Estela Quintera)
Join us as we dive into the world of The Wild Robot by Peter Brown! Through reading, discussions, and creative writing, we’ll explore Roz the Robot’s journey of survival, friendship, and self-discovery. We’ll unleash our imaginations by crafting our own adventure stories, designing unique robot characters, and developing survival plans for wild environments. Perfect for young storytellers who love adventure and creativity!
Miniature Masterpieces: Exploring Design Basics
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1303 (Cara Payne)
Discover the exciting world of interior design. We’ll explore the fundamentals of creating functional and visually appealing spaces while designing a miniature model bedroom for a “client.” We’ll engage with essential design principles, including color theory, symmetry, proportion and scale, contrast, and balance. We’ll learn how to combine aesthetics with practical problem-solving to create harmonious and innovative interior layouts. We’ll use both artistic expression and spatial reasoning skills to bring your imaginative ideas to life.
For students entering 4th and 5th grade; Students may take one, two or three classes.
Battle of Words: Speak, Argue, Win!
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1401 (Kara Girsch)
Ready to speak your mind? We’ll dive into the world of communication, presentations, and debates. You’ll learn how to present your ideas clearly, use fun visuals to wow your audience, and master the art of debating, whether you’re making a case for your favorite snack or arguing why pizza should be the national food! Through mock debates and writing activities, you’ll boost your confidence, sharpen your speaking skills, and discover how much fun it can be to argue!
World Art Exploration
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1402 (Cara Payne)
Pack your suitcases and grab your art supplies—it’s time for a cultural adventure! We’ll travel the globe without leaving the classroom. We’ll explore the traditions, languages, and customs of different countries as we dive into their folk art styles. Throughout the week, we’ll learn more about a wide variety of art, from the iconic Dala horses of Sweden to the intricate Talavera pottery of Mexico. Each day brings a new destination where we experiment with unique art techniques and even create our own masterpieces inspired by global traditions.
Engineering of Siege Warfare: Catapults and Trebuchets
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1403 (Jon Bradburn)
Join us as we embark on an exploration of the principles of engineering through the fascinating world of catapults and trebuchets. We’ll learn the fundamental principles of engineering, including force, motion, and energy transfer. In this hands-on class we’ll also study, build, and operate models of catapults and trebuchets, applying engineering concepts to siege weaponry.
For students entering 6th or 7th grade; Students may take one, two or three classes.
Exploring Aerodynamics: The Science of Flight
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1601 (Jon Bradburn)
Come explore the captivating world of aerodynamics. We’ll discuss mysteries of flight, from the principles governing aircraft design to the dynamics of objects soaring through the air. We’ll learn key aerodynamic concepts, including lift, drag, thrust, gravity and how air behaves around objects in motion. We’ll also have the opportunity to experiment with aerodynamic principles as we design, construct, and fly our model airplanes!
Exploring the Essay
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1602 (Kara Girsch)
This class is an excellent opportunity to sharpen your writing skills for essays. We’ll explore techniques for narration, description, and reflection, and learn how to creatively use figurative language, descriptions, details, and variety in your sentence structure. Throughout the week, you’ll grow confident in your ability to organize your essay, use innovative transitions between ideas, and write impressive beginnings and endings. We will also focus on the importance of writing for a specific audience and purpose, and work as a group to improve our form, content, and style. You’ll be ready for high school essays in no time!
Inside Out! An Epic Journey Through the Human Body
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1603 (Kelsey Clarkson)
Using imagination and hands-on learning, we’ll travel a certain magic bus to dive deep inside the human body to explore basic human anatomy. We’ll learn how our amazing systems work together to keep us alive, active, and healthy. Each day, we’ll focus on two different body systems—like the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, or nervous systems—learning their functions and how they work in harmony. Through interactive activities, we’ll build or examine detailed models of these systems, conduct experiments to see science in action, and explore ways to take care of each part of our bodies. Join us for this epic journey—you’ll never look at your body the same way again!
For students entering 8th or 9th grade; Students may take one, two or three classes.
Diplomacy in Action: Exploring the UN & World Affairs
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Class 1801 (Angela Weck)
Step into the world of global diplomacy as we explore the mission of the United Nations, understand how countries interact on the world stage, and learn practical strategies for conflict resolution. Through interactive activities, roleplaying simulations, and real-world case studies, we’ll develop the critical thinking and communication skills needed to navigate international issues.
Solving Crime With Forensics
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Class 1802 (Jon Bradburn)
Welcome to the thrilling world of forensic science! In this class, students will learn how to work to uncover the mysteries behind crimes using scientific methods and crime investigation techniques. From analyzing fingerprints to decoding DNA, students will learn how forensic scientists use evidence to solve crimes by analyzing fingerprints and other forensic systems.
Bonjour, French Fun!
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Class 1803 (Kara Girsch)
Start your journey into the French language and culture with this engaging beginner class! Through interactive games and activities, you’ll learn basic phrases, pronunciation, and conversational skills. Explore French culture and everyday life while building confidence in speaking. Get ready to say “Oui” to a new adventure!
Additional Links
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)
- Sign Up for the OLLI Newsletter
- OLLI Merchandise
- IT Workforce Accelerator
- Academic Programs
- Graduate Programs
- [email protected]
- (309) 677-3900
Connect with Us
Camper Information
World of Wonder families are invited to attend an optional 20-minute orientation session prior to the start of our program. Stop in during one of our four scheduled times for a quick program overview and tour to get your child familiar with their classroom. No RSVP is needed.
Friday, July 11, 2025 (two choices)
Sessions beginning at 11:30 a.m. or 12:15 p.m.
Saturday, July 12, 2025 (two choices)
Sessions beginning at 9:30 a.m. or 10:15a.m.
If you are a returning family and would just like to pick up your t-shirt, feel free to drop in any time during the scheduled times listed above.
Students may choose to take one, two, or three classes and recreation at the end of each day.
| 7:40 – 8:00 a.m. | Student drop off |
| 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. | Class 1 |
| 10:00 – 10:15 a.m. | Student drop off/pick up/break |
| 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Class 2 |
| 12:15 – 12:30 p.m. | Student pickup |
| 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. | Lunch (bring your own) and supervised recess |
| 1:15 – 1:30 p.m. | Student drop off |
| 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Class 3 |
| 3:30 – 3:45 p.m. | Student pickup |
| 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. | Supervised recreation |
| 4:45 – 5:15 p.m. | Student pickup (no later than 5:30 p.m.) |
All classes are held in Bradley Hall (see “X” on map). Students and staff will enter the building through the back doors on the west-facing side of the building.
Every student’s safety is important to us, and it remains our highest priority to ensure that students enter and exit cars in a safe and organized way. Thank you for your continuing support in making World of Wonder a safe and productive environment for all.
There are three options for student drop-off:
- Drive your car to Tobias Lane (may appear as Glenwood Ave on Google maps) and stop between the two signs marked “World of Wonder Drop-Off.” Please expect a line of cars, especially before the first morning class. Students must unload from the passenger side of the vehicle only. We ask that drivers remain in the vehicle at all times, and all driver-side doors are to remain closed. No trunk unloading is allowed in this zone (please consider options 2 or 3 instead). Please have all materials (backpack, lunch, water bottle, etc.) ready before your student exits the vehicle. Staff will assist your student out of the vehicle and walk them to their classrooms. Once your student has exited, please pull away from the signs, taking care to watch for traffic within the circle.
- Park and walk your student(s) to the Tobias Lane circle where staff will greet them and walk them to their classrooms.
- Park and walk your student(s) into Bradley Hall (using the east side doors), and take them to Room 032, the WOW Office; staff will walk them to their classrooms.
Student Pick-up
All student pick-ups will be from the Tobias Lane circle; families will receive a name tent to place on their dashboard to expedite pick-up.
Please note: before the 10:30 a.m. class, drivers will be in line to drop off AND pick up students. Please keep traffic in one lane and do not pull around other cars in line. We appreciate your patience as staff will assist in the loading and unloading of cars in a safe and efficient manner.
Students will be released only to parents or guardians whom the students can identify. If someone other than a parent or guardian is picking up a student, please let us know in advance by calling (309) 258-4142 or (309) 677-3900. If someone is not legally allowed to pick up your child, please alert the Director Catherine Lawless.
Traffic and Parking
Please note, due to seasonal construction on Bradley’s campus, parking may be limited and change daily.
T-Shirts
Participants will receive a t-shirt at orientation or on the first day of class. We encourage campers to wear their t-shirts daily for security and identification purposes. Additional WOW t-shirts are available for purchase via the online registration site.
What to Bring
Please label all items. Students may bring:
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Sweatshirts, sweaters, or jackets (the classrooms can be very cool)
- OPTIONAL: books, toys, or games for recreation period (please no electronic games)
Supervision
A Student Aide or Instructor will supervise students at all times.
Lunches
Students staying for lunch eat together, followed by supervised recreation. Please pack a sack lunch, as refrigeration is not available.
Attendance, Illnesses, & Absences
We will take attendance for every class and recreation. If a student is ill, please call (309) 258-4142 or (309) 677-3900 as soon as possible, to report the absence. If a student will be missing either part or all of a class or day, please let us know in advance by calling or by telling a staff member.
Emergencies, Information, & Office
If you need to reach your child, please call (309) 258-4142 or (309) 677-3900, or stop by the World of Wonder office between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office is located on the lower level of Bradley Hall in room 032.
Classroom Observations
You are welcome to observe and visit classrooms. Please check with the instructor in advance to coordinate the visit with planned activities.
FAQs
Registration Opens – Thursday, March 6, 2025
Deadline to Register – Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Classes – $109 each
Recreation – $40 for the week
Each student will receive a t-shirt.
- A $15 fee per student will be assessed on all cancellations. If one student is enrolled in three classes, the processing fee will only be $15.
- Cancellations received by June 17 will receive a full refund less the $15 processing fee per student. Cancellations received between June 18 – July 2 will receive 50% refund, less the $15 processing fee per student.
- No refunds if cancellation received after July 2.
- WOW reserves the right to cancel a class due to low enrollment. Students enrolled in a class that is canceled will be offered an alternative class or a full refund.
- Families will receive an email confirmation of the class registration.
- There will be an email sent prior to camp which will include information about the optional drop-in orientation session, sack lunch requirements, recreation, drop-off, and pick-up procedures, and more details about the program.
- Class registrations are based on the order in which applications are received.
- Partial scholarships are available to assist with tuition for families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.
- You may request a form by calling (309) 677-3900.
- Scholarship applications cannot be accepted via online registration. A registration form must be completed and mailed in or dropped off.
- Due to limited resources, WOW may not be able to grant every scholarship request.
WOW believes students learn best in an atmosphere of respect for the teacher and each other. Students who choose to behave in ways that interfere with other students’ opportunities to learn, and/or the instructors’ opportunities to teach, forfeit their own opportunity to participate in WOW. We reserve the right to dismiss students from class for such reasons. In these cases, no refunds will be given. Family support and cooperation with this matter is appreciated.
For questions about registration, deadlines, or arrangements contact Catherine Lawless at (309) 677-3900 or [email protected].
