Frequently Asked Questions

TaliTech camps combine computer science education with instructional design expertise to create engaging, research-backed learning experiences. Our small class sizes (max 10 students) ensure personalized attention as kids build real projects using game-based projects in Scratch and Minecraft, plus industry-standard tools like Java, Python, and AI. We emphasize computational thinking, creativity, and confidence-building in a supportive environment where struggle is celebrated as part of learning. Our teachers are industry professionals in computer science, data science, and AI that use effective instructional design strategies in every class.

AI makes coding skills more important, not less. Just like calculators didn't eliminate the need for math understanding, AI won't replace the need for computational thinking.

1. AI is a tool, not a replacement for thinking

Think of AI like a powerful assistant who needs clear instructions. Students who understand how code works can:
• Write better prompts that get useful results
• Ensure best practices, scalable solutions, and secure code
• Recognize when AI makes mistakes (and it pretty often does!)
• Debug and modify AI-generated code instead of being stuck when it doesn't work

A student who learns coding can use AI to build things 10x-100x faster. A student who never learns coding is limited by what they can describe to AI (and can't fix it when it breaks).

2. Understanding beats blind trust

In a world where AI touches everything from medical diagnoses to loan applications, we need critical thinkers who understand how algorithms work. Our students learn to ask:
• How was this AI trained? What biases might it have?
• Why did it make this decision?
• When should I trust AI vs. think for myself?

This literacy is becoming as essential as reading and math. Kids and teens need to be informed technology users, not just passive consumers.

3. The best opportunities go to AI-augmented humans

The professionals who'll thrive aren't pure coders OR pure AI users, they're people who combine both.

4. Coding teaches irreplaceable thinking skills

Even if AI could write all code (it can't, and won't for a long time), the process of learning to code develops computational thinking skills that apply to ALL aspects of life and careers.

These include:
• Decomposition: Breaking complex problems into steps
• Pattern recognition: Seeing connections and structures
• Debugging: Systematic problem-solving
• Abstraction: Identifying what matters and what doesn't
• Algorithm design: Creating efficient solutions

We don't ban AI or pretend it doesn't exist. Instead, we teach students to use it as a learning amplifier.

Our camps are carefully designed around how kids actually learn at different ages:

Tali Explorers (Ages 7-10, Grades 2-5): At this age, kids learn best with visual, hands-on activities and shorter focused tasks. We use block-based coding in Scratch where they can see their code come to life immediately. Perfect for beginners or kids with some coding experience who are ready to create their own games!

Tali Builders (Ages 9-13, Grades 4-8): This age group is ready for more complex sequences, patterns, and planning. We bridge block-based and text-based coding through Minecraft modding and game development—giving them confidence before diving into traditional programming languages.

Tali Titans (Ages 12-16, Grades 7-10): Older students can handle abstract thinking, hypotheticals, and longer projects. They're ready for real Python programming, AI tools, and deeper exploration. We design challenges that match their ability to think ahead and reason through complex problems.

Not sure which is right for your child? Let us know and we'll help you find the perfect fit!

Every TaliTech camp has clear learning goals. Your student will practice creating, problem-solving, and collaborating:

Block-Based Foundations (Week 1): Students master sequences, loops, events, and variables while designing their own interactive games. They'll debug code, give peer feedback, and present their creations.

Bridge to Text Coding (Week 2): Kids build on the same concepts as week 1 (loops, variables) and learn functions, conditionals, and begin working with text-based code as they create mods and design game mechanics.

Python & AI Deep Dive (Week 3): Students write Python code, work with real datasets, build AI chatbots, and explore machine learning concepts. We also discuss ethics and responsible AI use.

Beyond technical skills, all students develop computational thinking, persistence through challenges, and effective collaboration.

Technology literacy has become as fundamental as reading and math. We teach coding not just as a job skill, but as a creative medium and problem-solving toolkit.

Kids who learn to code:
• Think computationally — breaking complex problems into manageable steps (useful for math, science, and life!)
• Create confidently — they become technology creators, not just consumers
• Prepare for any career — nearly every industry values people who can think algorithmically
• Build resilience — debugging teaches that mistakes are opportunities to learn

Whether your child becomes a software engineer or pursues something completely different, these skills give them an advantage.

Think of Scratch as learning piano before composing symphonies. The fundamental skills learned here will transfer over to more advanced coding.

When students transition to text-based languages like Python, they already understand:
• Core logic: Sequences, conditionals (if/then), loops, variables, and functions
• Debugging mindset: How to systematically test and fix problems
• Project planning: Breaking big ideas into smaller, achievable steps
• Computational thinking: Pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design

Many professional developers credit early block-based coding in their childhood with making text-based programming feel much less intimidating later. Building games with Scratch helps build confidence because kids create impressive, shareable projects quickly, which motivates them to tackle harder challenges!

Safety is built into everything we do at TaliTech:

In-person: All camps maintain appropriate supervision ratios with instructors who prioritize student wellbeing. Parents are always welcome to stay nearby for any class!

Digital citizenship: We teach responsible online behavior:
• Never share personal information in public project descriptions or comments
• Understand that everything shared online is public and permanent
• Report any uncomfortable interactions to instructors immediately
• Respect others' creative work
• Artificial Intelligence use should not replace thinking for yourself and ethical reasoning

Supervised activities: All computer work happens under instructor supervision. We use age-appropriate tools and stay engaged with what students are building.

Parent partnership: We encourage you to ask your child about their daily projects! Open communication between our team and families helps us address any concerns quickly.

Frustration isn't just expected—it's actually essential to real learning! Our entire approach is designed to help kids develop a healthy relationship with challenge.

Here's how we handle it:
• "Pause, Think, Try Again" — We normalize debugging as detective work, not failure
• Productive struggle time — Students get space to problem-solve before we jump in, building resilience
• Peer collaboration — Kids discover that everyone hits roadblocks, and helping each other is powerful
• Celebrating mistakes — We literally celebrate bugs that lead to learning breakthroughs

When a student says "This is impossible!", we respond with "This is hard right now - let's break it into smaller steps." Our small class size means we catch frustration early and provide support before it becomes overwhelming.

Every child finishes camp with working projects they're proud of - proof that they CAN do hard things. That confidence often becomes a child's most valuable takeaway.

All TaliTech camps include:
• Instruction from teachers with STEM backgrounds
• All necessary equipment and software (students work on our provided Chromebooks)
• Break-time snacks
• Structured breaks with outdoor games and activities
• Daily project showcases and reflection time

Camps and classes use supply fees to cover software and equipment maintenance.

Optional: After-care from 3-5pm is available for an additional $100/week at some camps.

Great! We will meet students exactly where they are, providing scaffolding and encouragement as they develop new skills.

Students work at their own pace with teacher support and can optionally take supplemental work home. Many of our students start with zero coding experience and leave camp excited to keep learning!

Possibly! The Tali Builders camp (Ages 9-13) has the widest age range and could accommodate siblings.

We also offer a 10% sibling discount when multiple children register. Contact us to discuss your specific situation, we're happy to help find the best fit for your family.

We understand plans change! Here's our policy:
2+ weeks before camp: Full refund
Within 2 weeks: 50% refund or full credit toward future TaliTech programs

If something unexpected comes up, just reach out and we'll work with you.

We want camp to be accessible! Here are your options:

1. Full payment due before the first day of camp

2. Installment plans available (minimum $50 deposit)

3. Secure online payment via Square

4. In-person payment accepted (Square or Venmo)

We also offer a 10% discount on each student's 2nd+ week registration (automatically calculated at checkout).