Patna: There was a time when summer holidays meant one thing – a nostalgic, unhurried visit to Nani ka Ghar. Today, that quaint tradition is giving way to a more dynamic trend. Across Bihar, children are choosing to spend their summers immersed in learning new skills, experimenting with science and even picking up fresh languages – all thanks to an expanding array of summer camps that promise both education and entertainment.From private and govt schools to cultural and scientific institutions, summer camps are flourishing across the state. Experts in child education endorse these camps as vital platforms for developing young minds. “These programmes allow children to make meaningful use of their holidays while nurturing creativity and confidence,” said an academic.This year, a range of engaging summer activities are being hosted by institutions such as Bihar Bal Bhawan Kilkari, Shri Krishna Science Centre, Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anusandhan Sansthan and Premchand Rangshala – each with a unique offering.At the heart of it all is Kilkari, Bihar Bal Bhawan’s flagship programme under the Bihar Education Project Council. From June 2 to June 20, its Saidpur campus will reverberate with laughter, music and learning during its “Chak Dhoom-Dhoom” summer camp. The inaugural rain dance is set to usher in a season of exuberance.“This year, we are introducing artificial intelligence along with our regular activities,” said Jyoti Parihar, director of Kilkari. “Children will get hands-on training in dance, music, acting, photography, computers, science exhibits, painting, sculpture-making and creative writing,” she added.The camp’s sports offerings – taekwondo, karate, badminton, chess and skating – are another highlight. “Outdoor activities are a hit with kids,” she added. Skilled instructors from Delhi, Mumbai, West Bengal, Gujarat and beyond will mentor the children, who can register for a mere Rs 10 per activity.The Shri Krishna Science Centre is transforming curiosity into creativity through its Summer Hobby Camp. Here, science becomes an adventure with programmes in electronics, chemistry, astronomy and robotics. Children are guided through interactive puzzles and hands-on experiments with themed activities like “Fun with Electronics”, “Make Your Wireless Robotic Car” and “Colourful Chemistry”.Young visitors can also explore engaging galleries such as Science on a Sphere, the Hall of Evolution and the Ocean Zone – making it an immersive journey into the world of science.For those with a creative flair, the Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anusandhan Sansthan is offering a window into India’s rich craft traditions. Running from June 1 to June 10, the camp is designed to nurture artistic talent.“This camp will give children a unique opportunity to hone their creativity and connect with traditional art forms,” said trainer Hema Devi. Children will also tour the Handicraft Museum, which boasts an exquisite collection of stone and wood carvings, Madhubani paintings, papier mâché, tikuli art, bamboo work and more.From June 10 to June 20, Premchand Rangshala will stage “Dhoom Pichak Dhoom”, a lively camp that opens its doors to children up to 16 years of age – completely free of cost. Sessions from 7am to 10am will introduce participants to ballet, stage play, painting and other traditional dances.On a national scale, the CBSE’s Indian Language Summer Camp 2025 aligns with the National Education Policy’s vision of multilingualism. Hosted across CBSE-affiliated schools, the week-long camp gives students the opportunity to learn one of 22 Indian languages, delving into cultural expressions through stories, music, dance and food.NCERT has released a comprehensive digital curriculum with audio-visual support and schools will conduct 28 hours of engaging activities such as storytelling, shopping simulations, cultural performances and vocabulary-based games. “The creation of Indian Language Clubs will help students practise their skills beyond the camp and celebrate linguistic diversity,” said an official.Recognising the need for targeted support, the education department will run a mathematics camp from June 2 to June 21 for students of classes V and VI in govt schools who struggle with the subject. Conducted by engineering students, the initiative aims to strengthen foundational maths skills. Sessions will be held in morning and evening shifts with 10-15 students per group. “Children will be selected using ASER tools and trained within their own communities,” said director of primary education, Sahila.For many children, the summer camp is not just a break from routine, but a doorway to discovery.“Summer holidays are the perfect time to learn new things,” said Suhashni Goel, a Class VII student. “Apart from swimming classes, I am learning programming and Madhubani painting. After the 15-day camp, I will head to my grandparents’ home,” she added.Askshat, a Class IX student, said, “Last year I joined outdoor activities. This year, I will be attending a summer camp before visiting my Nani’s place in Vaishali. I want to learn guitar this time.”