Three hundred eager children stepped back in time to learn about some of the largest animals to ever walk the earth.

Mansfield ISD has held its summer science camp for the past 10 years. The theme for this year’s one-week camp was dinosaurs.

The incoming kindergarten through fourth graders start the day with a pep rally before launching into their first experiment. After lunch and recess, the second interactive experiment session begins. The engaging activities, like dioramas, paintings, virtual reality headsets and a fossil dig, incorporate science and dinosaur facts.

“We have a total of nine experiments, so the students get to experience new ones each day,” said Daniel Beauford, camp administrator. “Every experiment the kids go through, they get to interact in some form or fashion with dinosaurs.”

Along with the learning experience, teachers noted that they like to see the campers grow socially and meet new children from across the district.

“Even though it is a school program, it’s still the summer time, so we’re trying to make it fun and just to get them to know that this is fun, safe place for them to be,” said Mary Pleasant, one of the camp instructors. “It’s a great way to make new friends.”

MISD Science Camp runs from June 6 through June 10. Beauford said there will be a special surprise for the students on the final day to thank them for being inquisitive scientists.

“We’ve been blessed to fill our spots in science camp pretty much every year that we’ve had it,” said Beauford. “It’s always an exciting time for the kiddos. We try to have fun more than anything else, and we just gear their learning for science.”

The MISD Science Camp is one of the enrichment offerings provided by Mansfield ISD. View more local enrichment camps that will keep students engaged this summer here.