Kidventure, a program credited for running day camps and after school programs has been partnering with the University of Houston, College of Education (UH COE) since 2012.  Sharon Johnson, visiting associate professor in the Human Development & Family Studies (HDFS) program began recommending the summer camp program to her students to satisfy practicum requirements.  “When HDFS students complete a practicum at Kidventure they experience developmentally appropriate practices being implemented in an after school program instead of only occurring in a school setting,” said Johnson.

“We have broadened the scope of our partnership, most recently working with the College of Education and Paula Leveston to hire U of H students into positions within our summer and after school programs,” said Luke McGinty, Kidventure Assistant Camps Coordinator.

Not only is Kidventure a frequent recruiter at the Houston Area Teacher Center bi-semester conference and job fair, they are also a regular sponsor. “A large group of our most quality staff members are either Cougar Alumni or current students, said McGinty. “We find UH students and alumni to be bright, respectful, willing to learn and caring.”

Their after school and summer programs provide aspiring teachers (or those that want to work with children in another capacity) the opportunity to gain much-needed skills in classroom management, handling different age groups, teaching techniques, communication, and professionalism. Most importantly, they get the chance to make a difference in the lives of kids throughout Houston.

Overall, Kidventure could not be more pleased with their experience working with COE. “The faculty and staff at UH are professional, respectful, and are dedicated to finding opportunities to help their students grow into better, more experienced educators,” said McGinty.

To celebrate this successful partnership, Kidventure has a special offer for UH COE Faculty and Staff. To register to send your child to Kidventure camp with a special discount, (up to $30 per week) simply go to  http://kidventure.com/houston-summer-camp/ and click on the register link. You will be asked to create an account and as you create your account several prompts will walk you through how to become eligible for the University of Houston corporate discount. If you have any problems, feel free to call 713-960-8989. 

Camp is offered to three different age groups, Discoverers (ages 3-5), Explorers (ages 6-12) and LEADS (grades 6 to 9).  Families get to register for one or as many theme weeks as they choose from several locations within the Houston, Austin, and Dallas areas.