Educational Excellence Since 1912
Hamden Hall Country Day School
Educating students in PreSchool through Grade 12
Information on Summer Academy for Lower School 2024 coming soon.
 
Update on 6/23/23: Registration is closed, but some classes still have space. Email summeracademy@hamdenhall.org if you would like to enroll your child this summer.
 
The Lower School at Hamden Hall is committed to educating the whole child, through classes taught by specialists in art, music, physical education, science, technology, and world languages. Informed by Hamden Hall's core values of excellence, support, participation, accountability, and respect, each course provides a safe, nurturing environment in which children can explore and create.  

Each class is one week long and runs from 9 A.M. - noon, with the exception of our K-1 Summer Fun course, which is two weeks long and runs from 8:30 A.M. - noon.

Tuition: $370 per weekly course
 
Extend your child's day with our Academics and Adventures program! Instead of going home at noon, stay until 3:30 for an afternoon of sports, games, art, and exploring nature. Our afternoon also includes weekly field trips and twice weekly visits to the pool at Beckerman Athletic Center. This additional program is $150/week.

Click on the Summer Academy Application to register.
Have a question? Contact Allison Ehrenreich at summeracademy@hamdenhall.org

Week One: June 26 - June 30

List of 8 items.

  • Art and STEM (1-3)

    In this course, students will discuss what art and STEM are and how they can be combined. Students will also brainstorm examples of art and STEM working together (e.g. building a sculpture with engineering principles, using math to create patterns in art). Throughout the course, there could also be opportunities for students to learn about famous artists who have incorporated STEM principles into their work.




    Grades 1-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Famous Artists of the 20th Century (1-6)

    Each day we will be studying a famous artist from the 20th century. We will explore these artists in their well known art form 2-D and 3-D. Young artists will create their own work inspired by these incredible icons!

    Grades 1-6
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Fun with Spanish (1-4)

    Embark on a journey into Spanish language and culture! Learning a language is much easier for young children, and the sooner they start to learn, the easier it is. Summer is a great time to let your child try out a new language. A total immersion into the language will result in the immediate production of basic “sentences” through images on our board. Fun activities such as songs, games, and outdoors adventures make a fast-start of Spanish language learning in our school. Children will develop their skills, broaden their horizons, make new friends, and be exposed to Spanish!

    Grades 1-4
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Jr. Scientist - All About the Sun! (K-3)

    Jr. Scientist - All About the Sun!
    Students in grades K-3 will focus on exploring the sun and its various aspects. Do you know that sunlight can be converted into usable energy? Do you know why it is important to wear sunscreen? Do you know the sun can cause chemical changes? Do you understand the concept of time based on the sun's position? Do you know how important the sun is? Through hands-on experiments and learning activities, students will document their observations to record and reflect on their experiences. This helps them develop their scientific inquiry skills and encourages critical thinking.

    Grades K-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Mindful Kids: A Weeklong Course for Mental and Physical Health (K-2)

    This weeklong course is an opportunity for children ages 5-7 to gain essential knowledge to support their physical and mental wellbeing. Through interactive activities and discussions, they learn techniques to regulate their bodies, as well as how to engage in physical activity safely and with enjoyment. With our learning garden as the perfect backdrop, children discover the significance of good nutrition and its positive impact on their physical and mental health. They also acquire practical skills for controlling stress and emotions, and practice mindfulness activities like deep breathing, guided imagery, and body scans that focus on one of the five senses each day. This course provides children with the skills to take care of their mental and physical health and equips them with tools to share with their families, such as mindfulness stones and sensory bottles. By the end of the course, children will develop confidence and have new resources to help look after themselves and their loved ones.

    9a - noon
    Grades K-2
    $370
  • The Game of Chess (3-6)

    Have you ever wanted to learn to play chess? Are you looking to hone your skills? Explore this classic game with friends in a fun, dynamic learning environment. Taught by Hamden Hall's Mrs. Dixon, this week is sure to be a blast. 

    9a - noon
    Grades 3-6 
    $370
  • The Literacy Workshop (2-3)

    This Literacy Workshop will engage students in the joys of reading, writing and phonics/word study. It is designed to recognize and build upon individual students’ strengths as well as areas for improvement in literacy. Through the implementation of the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model students will engage in direct instruction during whole group mini lessons, differentiated small group work and one-on-one conferences which will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. During small group and one-on- one conferring, the remainder of students will work independently on authentic reading and writing activities to apply and strengthen strategies taught. Reading comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary as well as the writing process and an understanding of the skills and conventions of writing will be taught. Students will receive instruction on high frequency word recognition, phonics and strategies for analyzing and reading multisyllabic words during word study. The Literacy Workshop will meet the needs of each student in a respectful and nurturing environment.

    Grades 2-3
    9a - noon
    $370

  • Writers Workshop: Writing Strategies and Reading Comprehension (4-6)

    As students preview various writing styles, and write, revise, edit, and publish their own writing, they will study the writing process to improve sentence structure, grammar, paragraph skills, and vocabulary. The use of graphic organizers, including Inspiration software on the computer, will be featured as part of the course. Suitable for English language learners who have a basic understanding of English.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12pm
    $370

Week Three: July 10 -14

List of 7 items.

  • Art Around the World (4-6)

    Take a trip around the world through art! We will explore different art forms from all the continents, creating projects that represent the different beauty and culture of each continent. 

    Grades 4-6
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Experiment Lab (1-3)

    Hypothesize, observe, and watch in wonder over the crazy science reactions in this course. Each lesson will focus on a scientific experiment and the science behind the experiment. Grow your science knowledge and have a few wow moments along the way. Come join us for this exciting journey into the world of science experiments!

    Grades 1-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Math Facts and Skills Review (1-3)

    Summer is the perfect time to brush up on math skills, including word problems! With manipulatives, computer use, and fun games, this class is tailored to the needs of its students and will focus on letting young learners feel confident and prepared for the upcoming school year. 
     
    Grades 1-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Summer Fun with Phonics, Reading, and Math! (K-1) (session 1, week 2)

    This two-week program differentiates lessons to meet the individual needs of each student. Students have the opportunity to work at their own pace, so that they can develop their skills and knowledge to their fullest potential. Through the differentiated lessons, students will be able to reach their personal academic goals and become better prepared for Kindergarten and first grade.  It focuses on areas such as early literacy, writing, mathematics, social and emotional learning, and decision-making skills. Math standards that will be met include counting to 20, writing numbers, basic addition and subtraction problem solving, and basic shapes. Language Arts standards include the alphabet, letter sounds, word recognition, emergent reading skills, and beginning writing skills. Our goal is to solidify foundational skills, giving students tools to feel confident as they enter school in the fall. 

    8:30a - noon
    Grades: K-1
    $775 for the two-week program (we are closed Tues, July 4)
  • The Literacy Workshop (2-3)

    This Literacy Workshop will engage students in the joys of reading, writing and phonics/word study. It is designed to recognize and build upon individual students’ strengths as well as areas for improvement in literacy. Through the implementation of the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model students will engage in direct instruction during whole group mini lessons, differentiated small group work and one-on-one conferences which will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. During small group and one-on- one conferring, the remainder of students will work independently on authentic reading and writing activities to apply and strengthen strategies taught. Reading comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary as well as the writing process and an understanding of the skills and conventions of writing will be taught. Students will receive instruction on high frequency word recognition, phonics and strategies for analyzing and reading multisyllabic words during word study. The Literacy Workshop will meet the needs of each student in a respectful and nurturing environment.

    Grades 2-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • V.I.B.E. (4-6)

    In partnership with Little Scholars, we offer V.I.B.E.S.: What’s your vibe? Find your Voice, Ignite your positive identity, Build a sense of belonging, and Engage in your community. Participate in individual and group activities to develop these important skills that will be with you for a lifetime. Catch your V.I.B.E.!

    9a - noon
    Grades 4-6
    $370
  • Writers Workshop: Writing Strategies & Reading Comprehension (4-6)

    As students preview various writing styles, and write, revise, edit, and publish their own writing, they will study the writing process to improve sentence structure, grammar, paragraph skills, and vocabulary. The use of graphic organizers, including Inspiration software on the computer, will be featured as part of the course. Suitable for English language learners who have a basic understanding of English.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12pm
    $370

Week Five: July 24 - 28

List of 8 items.

  • 3-D Art (4-6)

    Get ready to get messy… This class will focus on 3-D art projects using many different mediums. Paper mâché, clay and more.

    9a - noon
    Grades 4-6
    $370
  • Engineering (1-3)

    In this course students will design Lego creations as an easy STEM activity. Kids will write or draw out their plans. This gives them a reference to go back to as they construct their design, including mazes or cities. They will also complete a fun and tasty project that uses toothpicks and marshmallows – or even jellybeans – to help appreciate engineering design. Imagine, plan, and BUILD!

    9a - noon
    Grades 1-3
    $370
  • Galactic Adventures (4-6)

    In partnership with Little Scholars, we offer Galactic Adventures! Blast off to a galaxy far, far away to learn about all things space and the amazing solar system. Participate in out of this world science experiments, design and engineer spacecraft prototypes, and discover a whole new world.

    9a - noon
    Grades 4-6
    $370
  • On Stage! (1-4)

    Get ready to move, act, dance, sing, write, and perform! Hamden Hall Theater teacher Lisa Daly offers this exciting specialty week for students who want a fun and focused week immersed in the performing arts. Join us for an accessible, imaginative week filled with games, storytelling, and purposeful play. The week will focus on the elements that make up a play- storytelling, character development, sets, costumes, movement, and lots of creativity! We will work together in an ensemble-based process to write and create an original work. Our week will culminate in a performance for our families and friends. 

    Lisa Daly is a Teaching Artist, Actor, and company member of A Broken Umbrella Theater, an ensemble theater company in New Haven. She has performed in many plays throughout the years including "Freewheelers", "Gilbert the Great", and "Seen Change!" She has a BA in Theater from Muhlenberg college, and also studied theater in Galway, Ireland. As a teaching artist, she has worked with Elm Shakespeare, Edgewood School, Cold Spring School, and Jasango Theater. She is also co-producer of Scripts: Ireland’s playwriting festival. Lisa enjoys teaching Theater at Hamden Hall Country Day School, as well as Video Production and Peer Leadership. Her biggest passion is sharing her love of theater and all that it has to offer!

    Grades 1-4
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Summer Fun with Phonics, Reading, and Math! (K-1) (session 2, week 2)

    This two-week program differentiates lessons to meet the individual needs of each student. Students have the opportunity to work at their own pace, so that they can develop their skills and knowledge to their fullest potential. Through the differentiated lessons, students will be able to reach their personal academic goals and become better prepared for Kindergarten and first grade.  It focuses on areas such as early literacy, writing, mathematics, social and emotional learning, and decision-making skills. Math standards that will be met include counting to 20, writing numbers, basic addition and subtraction problem solving, and basic shapes. Language Arts standards include the alphabet, letter sounds, word recognition, emergent reading skills, and beginning writing skills. Our goal is to solidify foundational skills, giving students tools to feel confident as they enter school in the fall. 

    8:30a - noon
    Grades: K-1
    $850 for the two-week program
  • The Literacy Workshop (2-3)

    This Literacy Workshop will engage students in the joys of reading, writing and phonics/word study. It is designed to recognize and build upon individual students’ strengths as well as areas for improvement in literacy. Through the implementation of the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model students will engage in direct instruction during whole group mini lessons, differentiated small group work and one-on-one conferences which will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. During small group and one-on- one conferring, the remainder of students will work independently on authentic reading and writing activities to apply and strengthen strategies taught. Reading comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary as well as the writing process and an understanding of the skills and conventions of writing will be taught. Students will receive instruction on high frequency word recognition, phonics and strategies for analyzing and reading multisyllabic words during word study. The Literacy Workshop will meet the needs of each student in a respectful and nurturing environment.

    Grades 2-3
    9a - noon
    $370

  • Upper Elementary Math (4-6)

    This summer math class will begin with a short skills assessment in order to meet the needs of its students. We will work on multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals, to help students review math from the previous year and prepare for the new school year.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12p
    $370
  • Writers Workshop: Writing Strategies & Reading Comprehension (4-6)

    As students preview various writing styles, and write, revise, edit, and publish their own writing, they will study the writing process to improve sentence structure, grammar, paragraph skills, and vocabulary. The use of graphic organizers, including Inspiration software on the computer, will be featured as part of the course. Suitable for English language learners who have a basic understanding of English.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12pm
    $370

Week Two: July 3 - 7 (closed July 4)

List of 5 items.

  • A Journey through the Sciences with STEM (1-3)

    Join us on an exciting adventure where we delve into the fascinating intersection of art and science in this STEAM-focused camp. With a hands-on approach, we will explore different biomes from around the world, observe and study constellations, experiment with meteorology, analyze the workings of various objects, and even experiment with chemistry and physics. Get ready to ignite your creativity and put on your thinking cap because this STEAM camp is bound to be a mind-blowing experience.



    9a - noon
    Grades 1-3
    $325
  • Fun with French! (1-4)

    Embark on a journey into French language and culture with Madame Kuhn! Learning a language is much easier for young children, and the sooner they start to learn, the easier it is. Summer is a great time to let your child try out a new language.

    Fun activities such as songs, games, and outdoors adventures make a fast-start of French language learning in our school. Children will develop their skills, broaden their horizons, make new friends, and be exposed to French!

    Grades 1-4
    9a - noon
    $325
  • Summer Fun with Phonics, Reading, and Math! (K-1) (session 1, week 1)

    This two-week program differentiates lessons to meet the individual needs of each student. Students have the opportunity to work at their own pace, so that they can develop their skills and knowledge to their fullest potential. Through the differentiated lessons, students will be able to reach their personal academic goals and become better prepared for Kindergarten and first grade.  It focuses on areas such as early literacy, writing, mathematics, social and emotional learning, and decision-making skills. Math standards that will be met include counting to 20, writing numbers, basic addition and subtraction problem solving, and basic shapes. Language Arts standards include the alphabet, letter sounds, word recognition, emergent reading skills, and beginning writing skills. Our goal is to solidify foundational skills, giving students tools to feel confident as they enter school in the fall. 

    9a-noon
    Grades K-1
    $775 for the two-week program (we are closed Tues, July 4)
  • The Literacy Workshop (2-3)

    This Literacy Workshop will engage students in the joys of reading, writing and phonics/word study. It is designed to recognize and build upon individual students’ strengths as well as areas for improvement in literacy. Through the implementation of the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model students will engage in direct instruction during whole group mini lessons, differentiated small group work and one-on-one conferences which will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. During small group and one-on- one conferring, the remainder of students will work independently on authentic reading and writing activities to apply and strengthen strategies taught. Reading comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary as well as the writing process and an understanding of the skills and conventions of writing will be taught. Students will receive instruction on high frequency word recognition, phonics and strategies for analyzing and reading multisyllabic words during word study. The Literacy Workshop will meet the needs of each student in a respectful and nurturing environment.

    Grades 2-3
    9a - noon
    $325

  • Writers Workshop: Writing Strategies and Reading Comprehension (4-6)

    As students preview various writing styles, and write, revise, edit, and publish their own writing, they will study the writing process to improve sentence structure, grammar, paragraph skills, and vocabulary. The use of graphic organizers, including Inspiration software on the computer, will be featured as part of the course. Suitable for English language learners who have a basic understanding of English.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12pm
    $325

Week Four: July 17 - 21

List of 7 items.

  •  Dinosaurs, Fossils, & STEM (1-3)

    In this course students will learn about dinosaurs and fossils, while completing various STEM tasks. Not only is this engaging, but it promotes critical thinking and creativity.

    9a - noon
    Grades 1-3
    $370
  • 3-D Art (1-3)

    Get ready to get messy… This class will focus on 3-D art projects using many different mediums. Paper mâché, clay and more.

    Grades 1-3
    $370
    9a - 12pm
  • Math Facts and Skills Review (1-3)

    Summer is the perfect time to brush up on math skills, including word problems! With manipulatives, computer use, and fun games, this class is tailored to the needs of its students and will focus on letting young learners feel confident and prepared for the upcoming school year. 
     
    Grades 1-3
    9a - noon
    $370
  • Summer Fun with Phonics, Reading, and Math! (K-1) (session 2, week 1)

    This two-week program differentiates lessons to meet the individual needs of each student. Students have the opportunity to work at their own pace, so that they can develop their skills and knowledge to their fullest potential. Through the differentiated lessons, students will be able to reach their personal academic goals and become better prepared for Kindergarten and first grade.  It focuses on areas such as early literacy, writing, mathematics, social and emotional learning, and decision-making skills. Math standards that will be met include counting to 20, writing numbers, basic addition and subtraction problem solving, and basic shapes. Language Arts standards include the alphabet, letter sounds, word recognition, emergent reading skills, and beginning writing skills. Our goal is to solidify foundational skills, giving students tools to feel confident as they enter school in the fall. 

    8:30a - noon
    Grades: K-1
    $850 for the two-week program
  • The Literacy Workshop (2-3)

    This Literacy Workshop will engage students in the joys of reading, writing and phonics/word study. It is designed to recognize and build upon individual students’ strengths as well as areas for improvement in literacy. Through the implementation of the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop model students will engage in direct instruction during whole group mini lessons, differentiated small group work and one-on-one conferences which will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. During small group and one-on- one conferring, the remainder of students will work independently on authentic reading and writing activities to apply and strengthen strategies taught. Reading comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary as well as the writing process and an understanding of the skills and conventions of writing will be taught. Students will receive instruction on high frequency word recognition, phonics and strategies for analyzing and reading multisyllabic words during word study. The Literacy Workshop will meet the needs of each student in a respectful and nurturing environment.

    Grades 2-3
    9a - noon
    $370

  • WOW Lab (4-6)

    In partnership again with Little Scholars, we offer the WOW Lab:  Hypothesize, observe, and watch in wonder over the crazy science reactions in our WOW Lab. Each lesson will focus on a scientific experiment and the science behind the experiment. Grow your science knowledge and have a few wow moments along the way. Come join us for this exciting journey into the world of science experiments.

    9a - noon
    Grades 4-6
    $370
  • Writers Workshop: Writing Strategies & Reading Comprehension (4-6)

    As students preview various writing styles, and write, revise, edit, and publish their own writing, they will study the writing process to improve sentence structure, grammar, paragraph skills, and vocabulary. The use of graphic organizers, including Inspiration software on the computer, will be featured as part of the course. Suitable for English language learners who have a basic understanding of English.

    Grades 4-6
    9a - 12pm
    $370

Hamden Hall Country Day School

About Us

Hamden Hall Country Day School is a nurturing and inclusive community with a dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence by understanding each child and fostering their individual growth.