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Kids Summer Camps Near Me

Looking for “Kids Summer Camps Near Me”? Here’s Why Families in Maryland & DC Choose Panda Programmer

Every winter and early spring, thousands of parents search for “kids summer camps near me” hoping to find the perfect combination of learning, fun, structure, and convenience. Whether you want a full-day option, a half-day program, or something flexible that keeps your child engaged, summer camps fill up fast — and choosing the right one matters.

At Panda Programmer, we understand what families are looking for: safe classrooms, small groups, real learning, outdoor play, and flexible schedules. That’s why our 2026 camp season is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet, with four locations serving Montgomery County and Washington, DC.

If you’re searching for great summer camps near you, here’s what makes Panda Programmer stand out.


🌎 Four Camp Locations Close to Home

When parents search “kids summer camps near me,” convenience is a big reason why they click. Panda Programmer offers four easy-to-reach locations, making drop-off and pick-up simple for busy families.

📍 Gaithersburg Summer Camp

Our flagship and longest-running location with spacious classrooms and outdoor access.
👉 Gaithersburg Kids Coding Summer Camp

📍 Silver Spring Summer Camp

Held at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, close to local neighborhoods and major commuter routes.
👉 Silver Spring Kids Coding Summer Camp

📍 Bethesda Summer Camp (NEW for 2026!)

A brand-new option for families near NIH, North Bethesda, and Kensington.
👉 Bethesda Kids Coding Summer Camp

📍 Washington, DC Summer Camp (NEW for 2026!)

Convenient for families in Chevy Chase, Tenleytown, and NW DC.
👉 Washington DC Kids Coding Summer Camp

Wherever you live, chances are a Panda Programmer camp is near you.


🎯 A Summer Camp That Delivers More Than Just Fun

While kids come for the games and excitement, parents love that Panda Programmer camps provide:

✔️ Real learning

Kids develop future-ready skills through:

  • Scratch
  • Python
  • Robotics
  • JavaScript
  • Web development
  • Computational thinking

✔️ A healthy balance

Each day includes outdoor games, movement breaks, and social time.

✔️ Options for every family

  • Full-day or half-day
  • Morning or afternoon sessions
  • After-care available
  • Weekly enrollment — choose one week or the whole summer

This makes it easy to customize the camp schedule around work, travel, and family plans.


👧👦 Small Groups = Big Impact

Many parents searching “kids summer camps near me” worry about large crowds. Panda Programmer keeps class sizes intentionally small, with a 7:1 (or better!) student-to-teacher ratio.

This ensures:

  • Personalized attention
  • A quieter, calmer learning environment
  • Better safety and supervision
  • More meaningful interaction with instructors

🧩 Perfect for Both Beginners & Experienced Coders

Whether your child is touching a keyboard for the first time or already experimenting with advanced projects, our curriculum adapts to their level.

Beginners gain confidence.
Experienced coders gain depth.
Everyone gains creativity.


🏆 Why Families Call Panda Programmer “The Best Kids Summer Camp Near Me”

Parents consistently tell us they appreciate that we offer:

  • Engaging STEM learning
  • Experienced, caring instructors
  • Affordable weekly pricing
  • Brand-new locations closer to where they live
  • A safe environment that builds confidence

Most importantly, kids leave camp excited, not exhausted.


📅 Registration Opens December 15th

Camps often fill quickly — especially morning sessions and weeks near July 4th — so we encourage families to sign up early.

Browse our locations and details:


Ready for a Summer of Learning and Adventure?

If you’re searching for “kids summer camps near me” in Montgomery County or Washington, DC, Panda Programmer offers the perfect balance of education, creativity, and fun. We can’t wait to welcome your child to an unforgettable summer!

Summer Camps – Sneak Preview for 2026!

Panda Programmer Summer Camps – Sneak Preview for 2026!

Registration Opens December 15th

Panda Programmer is excited to announce that our 2026 Summer Camps are almost here! Full registration will open on December 15th, and this year’s program is our biggest and best ever — featuring two brand-new locations to better serve families across Montgomery County and the Washington, DC region.

This summer, young coders will explore Scratch, Robotics, Python, JavaScript, and hands-on STEM activities in our signature small-group environment. Whether your child is brand new to coding or ready for more advanced challenges, we have the perfect camp experience waiting.


🚀 New Camp Locations for 2026

We are thrilled to expand our program into Bethesda and Washington, DC, offering families more convenient options than ever before.

📍 Bethesda Summer Camp (NEW!)

Located at 9601 Cedar Lane, our Bethesda site brings Panda Programmer’s popular STEM summer program to a new community hub near NIH and Walter Reed.

Learn more:
👉 Bethesda Kids Coding Summer Camp


📍 Washington, DC Summer Camp (NEW!)

Our all-new DC location launches at 1 Chevy Chase Circle NW, offering families in Chevy Chase, Friendship Heights, and NW Washington a convenient nearby option.

Explore the program:
👉 Washington DC Kids Coding Summer Camp


🌟 Returning Locations for 2026

Our community-favorite locations in Gaithersburg and Silver Spring are back with even more coding adventures, robotics builds, outdoor time, and creative STEM activities.

Gaithersburg

Our longest-running camp, located in the heart of Old Town.
👉 Gaithersburg Kids Coding Summer Camp

Silver Spring

Held at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, this site continues to be one of our most popular summer programs.
👉 Silver Spring Kids Coding Summer Camp


🧠 What Kids Will Learn

Across all four locations, students will enjoy:

  • Hands-on coding using Scratch, ScratchJr, and Python

  • Robotics building and programming

  • Beginner-friendly JavaScript and web development

  • Outdoor games and social activities

  • Optional enrichment like chess, ukulele, and origami

  • Small classes (7:1 student-to-teacher ratio or better)

Programs run in weekly full-day or half-day sessions, with optional after-care at all locations.


📅 Registration Opens December 15th

Families can browse full schedules, pricing, and weekly themes beginning December 15th on our website. Camps fill quickly every year — especially our morning sessions — so we encourage you to register early.

Stay tuned for the official launch, and get ready for our biggest, most exciting summer yet!

Feedback from a Panda parent

Just want to share some feedback we received today from the parent of one of our Silver Spring students. This student was involved in one of our after-school in Silver Spring programs:

“I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for the incredible work you’ve done with the club this year. My son has truly enjoyed being a part of Panda Programmer, and we’re so grateful for the time, patience, and care your team has shown him and all the students.

It’s been amazing to see how much he has learned—not only in programming skills but also in problem-solving, creativity, and confidence with technology. Your kindness and enthusiasm made the experience both educational and fun, and we’re so thankful for the positive impact you’ve had on him.

We really appreciate all the effort and dedication that goes into running the club, and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead!”

Looking forward to summer camp! 🙂

STEM Camp in Washington DC

Panda Programmer offers the best STEM camp in Washington DC! Our newest location is in the Takoma neighborhood of DC. Camp begins on June 16th and goes through August! Sign up your child now. We cater to grades 1 through 8. And if DC is not convenient, we offer 3 other locations in Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and Bethesda.

New Panda Summer Camp location in DC

Panda Programmer is opening a new summer camp location in DC!
We are proud to announce our latest Panda Programmer summer camp location at 6440 Piney Branch Rd, NW, Washington DC 20012.  The new location is in DC, just south of Silver Spring/Takoma Park.  Like our other summer STEM camps in Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and Bethesda, it will be open for all 10 weeks of the MCPS summer! Choose the location that works best with your commute and schedule.

Panda Programmers don’t just play video games, they design and create their own!

STEM Camp in Bethesda and Gaithersburg

Are you looking for an engaging and educational summer experience for your child? Panda Programmer is thrilled to announce our 2025 Summer Camps in Bethesda and Gaithersburg! Our STEM camps offer a fun, hands-on way for kids to develop valuable programming skills while making friends and enjoying an unforgettable summer.

Why Choose Panda Programmer’s Summer Camp?

  • Expert Instruction: Our instructors specialize in teaching kids how to code in a fun and interactive way.

  • Variety of Coding Programs: We offer Scratch, Scratch JR, Python, HTML, and Robotics, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your child’s interests and experience level.

  • Small Class Sizes: We ensure personalized attention so that each camper can maximize their learning.

  • Hands-On Learning: Kids learn through projects, games, and teamwork, developing both technical and problem-solving skills.

  • Confidence Building: Coding isn’t just about learning technology—it’s about developing creativity, logic, and confidence!

New Location: Bethesda!

For the first time ever, Panda Programmer is expanding our summer camp program to Bethesda, MD! Due to high demand, we are excited to bring our renowned coding programs to more families in Montgomery County. If you’re in or near Bethesda, don’t miss this opportunity to enroll your child in a STEM-focused summer camp close to home!

Returning to Gaithersburg!

Gaithersburg has always been one of our most popular locations, and we are back for another amazing summer of coding fun! Parents love our structured yet fun approach to teaching programming, and kids enjoy making their own video games, animations, and more!  We are also returning to our Silver Spring location on University Blvd West.  

Camp Details

  • Locations: Bethesda, Gaithersburg, and Silver Spring

  • Ages: 1st through 8th grade

  • Programs: Scratch, Python, HTML, Robotics, and more!

  • Dates: Weekly sessions throughout the summer

  • Times: Full-day and half-day options available

  • Registration: Open now—spots fill up quickly!

Sign Up Today!

Give your child the gift of coding and problem-solving skills this summer with Panda Programmer. Whether you’re in Bethesda or Gaithersburg, our summer camps provide the perfect blend of education, fun, and creativity.

 Register now to secure your spot: Register

Join us this summer and watch your child develop new skills, make friends, and have a blast with coding!

Bethesda Summer Camp Opening

At Panda Programmer, we’re excited to announce the opening of our brand-new summer camp location in Bethesda for 2025! Since 2015, we’ve been offering engaging, educational, and fun summer camps in Montgomery County, inspiring young minds with the power of coding and technology. This year, we’re thrilled to expand our reach and bring our proven programs to families in Bethesda.

A Legacy of Excellence Since 2015

For nearly a decade, Panda Programmer has been a trusted name in kids’ programming education. Our summer camps have helped countless children in grades 1–8 discover the joys of coding, problem-solving, and creativity. From interactive Scratch projects to advanced Python coding and robotics, we have designed our programs to be both fun and educational.

Parents and students alike have praised our camps for their hands-on learning experiences, supportive instructors, and welcoming environment. Now, we’re bringing this same commitment to excellence to Bethesda!

Why We’re Excited About Bethesda

Bethesda is a vibrant community filled with families who value education and innovation, making it the perfect location for our newest summer camp. Conveniently located near NIH and downtown Bethesda, our camp is easily accessible for local families and professionals alike.

This expansion is more than just a new location. It’s an opportunity to share our passion for teaching programming with even more young learners. Is your child new to coding? Fine! Is your child ready to dive into advanced topics? Fine! Either way, our Bethesda summer camp will provide the tools and inspiration they need to succeed.

What to Expect at Our Bethesda Summer Camp

Our Bethesda camp will feature the same great programs and activities that have made Panda Programmer a trusted leader in kids’ coding education:

  • Engaging Coding Classes: From Scratch Jr. for beginners to Python and robotics for more advanced learners, there’s something for every child.
  • Experienced Instructors: Our team of dedicated instructors makes learning fun and accessible for kids of all skill levels.
  • Hands-On Learning: Kids will work on real projects, creating games, animations, and more, all while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer in Bethesda!

We couldn’t be more excited to bring our summer camp to Bethesda and continue inspiring the next generation of programmers. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early!

Visit our Bethesda Summer Camp page to learn more about our Bethesda location and secure your child’s place today.

Bethesda summer camp
Programming is fun!

Introducing Panda Programmer’s Bethesda Summer Camp: Conveniently Located for NIH Employees

At Panda Programmer, we’re thrilled to announce that our 2025 summer camp is coming to Bethesda! This new location is perfect for young aspiring coders and is especially convenient for parents working at or near the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Our Bethesda summer camp is located just across the street from NIH. It is an ideal choice for NIH employees. Particularly parents who want their children to spend their summer productively while staying close to their workplace.

Why Choose Panda Programmer’s Summer Camp?

At Panda Programmer, we specialize in teaching kids in grades 1–8 the skills they need to thrive in the digital age. From beginner-friendly platforms like Scratch and Scratch Jr. to more advanced coding languages like Python and robotics. Our summer camp offers a fun and educational experience that keeps kids engaged and learning.

Our Bethesda camp will include:

  • Convenient Drop-Off and Pick-Up Times: Aligning with your workday at NIH.
  • Hands-On Coding Projects: Kids will build their own games, animations, and even robotics projects.
  • STEAM Education Focus: Preparing young minds for the future with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Bethesda Summer Camp for NIH Families

The close proximity of our Bethesda camp to NIH eliminates the hassle of coordinating long commutes for your child’s summer activities. You can focus on your workday knowing your child is in a safe. Additionally our educational, and inspiring environment is just across the street.

Imagine the convenience of dropping your child off at camp in the morning. While you head to work at NIH, and then pick them up in the evening—all without any extra travel time!

Early Registration is Open Now

Spots for our Bethesda summer camp are expected to fill quickly. Especially given its prime location for NIH employees and nearby professionals. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to provide your child with a summer full of learning, creativity, and fun.

Visit our summer camp page to learn more and register your child today- Especially as we focus on Bethesda summer camp for NIH families!

Preparing Kids for the Jobs of Tomorrow: Why STEAM Education Matters

Technology

As technology continues to transform industries, preparing children for the future has become more critical than ever. In a recent Forbes article by Kerry Ebersole Singh, the importance of investing in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education is highlighted as a key strategy for equipping children with the skills they need for tomorrow’s job market.

At Panda Programmer, we are proud to contribute to this mission by offering engaging and effective programming classes and summer camps for kids in grades 1–8. The article emphasizes how STEAM education fosters creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability. These skills are vital in the rapidly evolving tech-driven world. These are the very skills we nurture in our students through interactive coding programs like Scratch, Scratch Jr., Python, and robotics.

How Panda Programmer Aligns with STEAM Goals

The Forbes article underscores the value of hands-on, exploratory learning, a cornerstone of Panda Programmer’s approach. Our summer camps and classes are designed to make learning fun and meaningful. Our camps help children not only understand technology but also use it as a tool to express their creativity and solve problems.

In 2025, we’re expanding our summer camps to include Bethesda, in addition to Gaithersburg and Silver Spring. These camps provide the perfect opportunity for parents to invest in their child’s future. They give them a head start in programming and computational thinking.

Why This Matters for Parents

As the Forbes article explains, parents play a crucial role in preparing their children for the future. By enrolling your child in Panda Programmer’s classes or summer camps, you’re taking an active step to ensure they are equipped with the skills they’ll need to thrive in tomorrow’s economy.

Our programs are more than just coding lessons. They’re a gateway to understanding the digital world and exploring limitless possibilities. It doesn’t matter whether your child is a beginner or ready to tackle more advanced projects. Our experienced instructors tailor the learning experience to meet their needs.

Invest in Your Child’s Future

STEAM education is not just a trend; it’s an essential component of preparing the next generation for success. Join the movement by enrolling your child in one of our summer camps or after-school programs. Spots for our 2025 Bethesda, Gaithersburg, and Silver Spring camps are filling fast—don’t miss out!

Visit our programs page to learn more and secure your child’s future in the exciting world of programming.

Let’s build the skills today that will shape the leaders of tomorrow!

Empowering Young Minds Through Coding: Discover Bethesda’s Summer Camp Opportunities!

In today’s tech-driven world, coding skills are essential for children, helping them build logical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities. Panda Programmer is a leader in offering engaging and structured coding programs for kids, providing opportunities ranging from after-school courses to our specialized summer camps. In 2025, we’re excited to expand our summer camp offerings to Bethesda, alongside Gaithersburg and Silver Spring!

Rising Demand for Kids’ Coding Classes

Programming is no longer just for adults. Introducing kids to coding at an early age helps develop critical thinking and provides creative outlets. At Panda Programmer, we make learning interactive and fun, empowering students with skills that will last a lifetime.

Scratch vs. Scratch Jr.: Which is Right for Your Child?

We specialize in teaching beginner-friendly coding platforms like Scratch and Scratch Jr., tailored to different age groups:

  • Scratch Jr.: Perfect for younger children, this simplified, block-based platform introduces storytelling and animation to programming.
  • Scratch: A step up, Scratch allows kids to create interactive games and projects using more advanced tools and concepts.

With our experienced instructors, parents can trust us to guide their children toward the best platform for their age and learning stage.

Join Us in Bethesda This Summer!


Whether your child is new to coding or eager to take their skills further, our Bethesda summer camp offers the perfect environment to learn, create, and have fun. Reserve your spot today and give your child the gift of coding! Click HERE to learn more about our Bethesda Summer Camp. Or… if you live/work closer to Gaithersburg or Silver Spring, you can find our camps there too!

computer programming for kids at our summer camp in Bethesda
Coding is fun!