Programs for Youth and Families
Health and Human Development
Youth Programs
Commitment to the health and well-being of children, youth, and families is knitted into the fabric of the College of Health and Human Development and is evident through our teaching, learning, research, and outreach. The outreach programs listed here are opportunities for young people to participate in fun and engaging learning experiences with HHD faculty and staff.
Where Sports and Science Meet
Department of Kinesiology
Registration Now Open
June 23-26, 2026
Age 9-14
$325
Campers will learn about the field of Kinesiology, including research and potential career paths. Each day campers will engage in an educational session that will present an overview of a particular area of Kinesiology (athletic training, health and physical education, coaching, sport performance and fitness, physical therapy, disability sports and adapted physical activity, wellness for the older population) followed by an applied learning experience (AT simulation lab, fitness and movement skill testing, sport performance testing, disability sport simulation, Center for Fitness and Wellness). The camp is also designed to inform campers of undergraduate study possibilities as well as career paths.
Cook Like a Chef is BACK!
Department of Nutritional Sciences
Registration Now Open
June 15-18, 2026 (9:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.)
Age 10-14
$350 (lunch included)
Campers work together in teams to create at least a dozen different recipes, tasting new foods, experimenting with fresh ingredients, and discovering how delicious whole grains, greens, beans, healthy fats, dairy, and non‑dairy alternatives can be. Each day, they dive into hands‑on cooking activities that build skills and confidence in the kitchen. After all their hard work, everyone sits down to enjoy the meal they prepared together. Plus, our young chefs get to show off—sample snacks are saved for parents at pickup so you can taste the day’s creations, too. It’s creative, tasty, and the perfect place for curious kids to cook up something amazing.
NEW! Total Athlete Development
Department of Kinesiology
Registration Now Open
July 27-29, 2026
Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Wednesday 9 a.m. -12 p.m.
Age 13-16
$250
Whether you're just starting out or already competing, this high-energy program is built to elevate your game. Learn the foundational movement patterns that power every sport, boost your speed, agility, and quickness with expert coaching. Understand how to properly warm-up and stretch to enhance performance and prevent injury. Dive into sport-specific training to build strength, power, and athleticism, while developing safe, effective exercise habits for life. Plus, get insider nutrition tips from a Registered Dietitian to fuel your workouts and recovery. You'll build confidence and discipline through challenging but fun sessions.
Community Hero Initiative Program (CHIP)
Department of Kinesiology
Registration Now Open
July 13-16, 2026
Rising 10th and 11th Graders
$200
CHIP is an interactive program that helps students learn, reflect, create, and prepare for future goals. Designed for Centre County students, the program uses team‑building activities and group discussions to explore topics such as combating microaggressions and bias, building solidarity, promoting physical exercise and mindfulness, understanding food insecurity, and learning basic gardening skills. Students also gain awareness of community resources that support resilience and grit when challenges arise. After completing the program, participants may become a CHAMP (Community Health Ambassador Master Participant) by completing leadership hours in community settings such as The Centre County Food Bank.
Creating Opportunities for Young Hospitality Leaders (COYHL)
School of Hospitality Management
Accepting Applications
July 12-17, 2026 (Residential)
Rising 11th and 12th Graders
$1,795 (Scholarships may be available)
Do you ever think a career in lodging and resort management, food and beverage management, or event management might be fun? Do you like teams and enjoy using your creativity? Do you see yourself working with people? Do you ever think you want to own your own business one day? You can find out about all the opportunities in the wide, wide world of hospitality management that can be yours by applying to this multi-day leadership program — COYHL Summer Program in Penn State’s School of Hospitality Management.