Getting ready
Before-camp checklist
Doing these before Day 1 means your child starts building right away instead of waiting on installs.
Bring a Windows or Mac laptop.
Chromebooks and iPads will not work because they can't run the Arduino and Python software we use. School-issued laptops often block installs, so check before camp.
Arduino Basics
Mon–Wed, Nov 23–25 · 10 AM – 1 PM
- A Windows or Mac laptop with its charger. Chromebooks and iPads will NOT work.
- Install Arduino IDE 2 (free) from arduino.cc/en/software before Day 1.
- Make sure you can install software on the laptop (school-issued laptops often block this).
- If the laptop only has USB-C ports, bring a USB-C to USB-A adapter.
- Arduino starter kit (purchased from our team, or your own from Amazon).
- Water bottle and a snack.
Vision Robotics
Mon–Wed, Nov 23–25 · 2 PM – 5 PM
- A Windows or Mac laptop with its charger. Chromebooks and iPads will NOT work.
- Install Arduino IDE 2 (free) from arduino.cc/en/software before Day 1.
- Install Python 3 from python.org. We set up OpenCV and YOLO together in class.
- Create a free Tinkercad account at tinkercad.com (a parent may need to help if your child is under 13).
- Make sure you can install software on the laptop (school-issued laptops often block this).
- Arduino starter kit (purchased from our team, or your own from Amazon).
- Water bottle and a snack.
Weekly · Fridays
Fridays · start date coming soon · 5:45 – 7:15 PM
- A Windows or Mac laptop with its charger. Chromebooks and iPads will NOT work.
- Install Arduino IDE 2 (free) from arduino.cc/en/software before week 1.
- For online weeks: a quiet spot, the laptop, and the Arduino kit. The video link is sent before each class.
- Arduino starter kit (purchased from our team, or your own).
Weekly · Saturdays
Saturdays · start date coming soon · 10 – 11:30 AM
- A Windows or Mac laptop with its charger. Chromebooks and iPads will NOT work.
- Install Arduino IDE 2 (free) from arduino.cc/en/software before week 1.
- For online weeks: a quiet spot, the laptop, and the Arduino kit. The video link is sent before each class.
- Arduino starter kit (purchased from our team, or your own).
About the Arduino kit
Every student needs an Arduino starter kit, and it's theirs to keep. The easiest option is to add one from our team for $30 when you register; we hand it out on Day 1. Otherwise, purchase an Arduino Uno starter kit on Amazon before camp (usually a bit more expensive). One kit covers both Thanksgiving camps.
Stuck on an install? Send me a message and I'll help.