Iowa Camp Helps 20+ Kids Become Young Inventors

The sounds echoing through Harlan Community's intermediate building in early June weren't what you'd expect from summer school. Instead of quiet study halls, the hallways buzzed with young inventors dismantling electronics, designing prototypes, and learning that mistakes are just part of creating something amazing.

Camp Invention, a hands-on STEM program from the National Inventors Hall of Fame, transformed how elementary and middle school students approached problem-solving for an entire week. Rather than following strict instructions, campers experimented freely, took creative risks, and learned through discovery.

Instructor Amanda Donahoo watched confidence bloom throughout the week. "My favorite part of leading Camp Invention is watching kids explore, modify and adapt their projects, and persevere," she said, noting that freedom from grades helped students embrace failure as a learning tool.

Fellow instructor Gaylen Petsche saw the same transformation. "I appreciated most watching students learn through exploration, curiosity and hands-on discovery without the pressure of immediate mastery," she explained, observing how campers grew more comfortable tackling challenges as days progressed.

The program's biggest win came from removing financial barriers. Local sponsors including the Harlan Parian Lodge, Harlan Community Education Foundation, and Iowa West Foundation funded scholarships for over 20 students who might otherwise have missed out.

"It was so wonderful to remove financial barriers and welcome so many learners to camp this summer," said Camp Director Kyleigh Kumm. Her gratitude extended to the five dedicated instructors, parent volunteers, and middle and high school students who helped younger campers bring their inventions to life.

The Ripple Effect

When kids learn that their ideas matter and mistakes are just stepping stones, those lessons travel far beyond summer camp. The confidence these young inventors gained while dismantling gadgets and building prototypes will serve them in classrooms, future careers, and everyday problem-solving. By investing in hands-on learning experiences, Harlan's community sponsors didn't just fund a week of activities—they planted seeds for the next generation of innovators, critical thinkers, and creative problem-solvers who'll tackle tomorrow's challenges with courage and curiosity.

The week proved that when communities invest in removing barriers to enrichment programs, every child gets the chance to discover their inner inventor.