What is TinkerTrail STEM Academy?
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TinkerTrail is a hands-on STEM academy for kids ages 6–14 based in Mississauga, Ontario. We run 5-day summer camps, 2-hour drop-in workshops, and structured learning paths — all focused on real building, coding, science and engineering. Every session ends with a take-home creation.
Where are you located?
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All our programs run at MindShare Workspace, inside Erin Mills Town Centre — 5100 Erin Mills Pkwy, Mississauga, ON L5M 4Z5. There is free parking at the mall and MiWay transit access via Route 19.
What ages do you serve?
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Most programs are open to kids ages 6–14. Individual camps and workshops may have a specific age range — always check the age tag on the program page. We find the sweet spot for mixed groups is typically 8–12.
Do you offer programs year-round?
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Right now we run summer camps in July and drop-in workshops on selected weekends throughout the year. More dates are being added regularly — check the Schedule page or follow us for updates.
How do I stay updated on new programs?
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Call or WhatsApp us at 437 344 4140 and ask to be added to our list, or check the Schedule page regularly. New workshops and camp weeks are announced there first.
How do I register for a camp or workshop?
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Click "Get Tickets" or "Enroll Now" on any event or program page, or call/WhatsApp us at 437 344 4140. You can also fill out the contact form and we'll get back to you within a few hours. A deposit is required to hold the spot.
How far in advance should I register?
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As early as possible — sessions are capped at 12 kids and fill up quickly, especially for camps. We recommend registering at least 2 weeks before a camp and a few days before a workshop.
Can I register on the day?
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For workshops, you can sometimes drop in on the day if spots are available, but we strongly recommend reserving in advance. For camps, same-day registration is not possible.
Is there a deposit? How much?
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Yes, a deposit is required to secure your spot. Contact us at 437 344 4140 for current deposit amounts — it varies by program. The balance is due before the session begins.
Do you offer a sibling discount?
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Yes! Contact us before booking when registering two or more siblings for the same session or camp week. We offer a 10% discount per additional sibling.
Do you offer payment plans for camps?
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Yes. For camps, we can split the payment into a deposit to reserve the spot and a balance due one week before the camp starts. Contact us to arrange this.
What camps are available in Summer 2026?
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We have three camps running this summer: STEM Revolution Camp (July 6–10, Ages 9–14, $255), Code Quest Camp (July 13–17, Ages 9–14, $225), and Scratch Explorers Camp (July 20–24, Ages 6–9, $225). All run Mon–Fri, 9am–1pm at MindShare Workspace, Erin Mills.
What are the camp drop-off and pickup times?
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Drop-off is 8:50–9:00am each morning. Pickup is 1:00–1:15pm. Please be on time for pickup. If you need an early or late pickup arrangement, contact us in advance.
What should my child bring to camp?
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A packed nut-free lunch, a water bottle, and comfortable clothes they don't mind getting a bit messy. For coding camps (Code Quest, Scratch Explorers), please bring a laptop or tablet. All tools, materials, and snacks are provided.
Does my child need prior STEM experience for camp?
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No experience needed at all. Every camp is designed to be beginner-friendly. Our instructors guide each child step by step. Kids who have never coded or built anything before thrive in our programs.
What is included in the camp price?
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Everything except lunch. The camp fee covers all materials and tools, afternoon snack, a take-home project, a digital badge and certificate, and a photo recap email for parents at the end of the week.
My child is sick during camp week — what happens?
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Please keep sick children home. Contact us and we'll do our best to arrange a makeup session or partial credit depending on circumstances. We appreciate you keeping the environment healthy for everyone.
What is the camp group size?
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Every camp is capped at 12 kids with a minimum of one certified instructor plus one assistant. This keeps the ratio at 6:1 or better so every child gets real attention.
What workshops are currently available?
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Upcoming workshops include: Monocular Makers Lab (June 13, $25), Build A Breeze (June 20, $35), and 3D Magic Makers (coming soon, $25). More workshops are added regularly. Check the Schedule page for the latest dates.
Do I need to book a workshop in advance?
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We strongly recommend it — spots are limited to 12 kids and popular workshops sell out quickly. You can reserve online via the event page, or call/WhatsApp us at 437 344 4140. Drop-ins are sometimes possible if space allows.
What time are workshops?
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Workshops run 12:30–2:30pm on selected Saturdays and Sundays. Drop-off starts at 12:20pm. Pickup is at 2:30–2:45pm. Check the specific event page for exact timing.
What does my child need to bring to a workshop?
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Nothing at all! All materials, tools, and supplies are fully provided. Just bring your child in comfortable clothes — some workshops can get a little messy (especially science ones!).
What does my child take home from a workshop?
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Every child leaves with a completed hands-on creation. For example, Build A Breeze participants take home a working desk fan they built themselves. 3D Magic Makers take home their 3D pen creation.
Can parents stay and watch during workshops?
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Yes! Parents are always welcome to observe from the designated area. We find most kids focus better independently, but you're never required to leave.
Are your instructors background checked?
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Yes. Every TinkerTrail instructor and volunteer undergoes a full criminal background check before working with children. This is non-negotiable for everyone on our team.
What is your photo and social media policy?
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We do not share photos or videos of children without explicit written consent from a parent or guardian. You will be asked about this at registration. You are in full control of how your child is represented online.
How do you handle allergies and medical needs?
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We collect allergy and medical information at registration and take it seriously. Our sessions are nut-free environments. Please list all allergies and medical conditions when registering, and remind our instructors at drop-off.
Are your instructors first aid certified?
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Yes. All lead instructors hold current first aid and CPR certification. A fully stocked first aid kit is on site at every session.
What happens in an emergency?
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We will call 911 if required and contact parents immediately. All sessions are held in a well-monitored indoor venue (MindShare Workspace at Erin Mills Town Centre) with easy emergency access.
My child has a learning difference or special need. Can they attend?
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Absolutely — please contact us before registering so we can discuss how to best support your child. We have successfully accommodated kids with ADHD, autism spectrum, anxiety, and various sensory needs. We'll be honest with you if a particular format isn't the right fit.
What does a workshop cost?
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Workshops range from $25 to $45 per child depending on the type. The price always includes all materials, supplies, and the take-home creation. There are no hidden fees.
What does a camp cost?
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Camps cost $225–$255 per child for the full week (Mon–Fri). This covers all materials, tools, snacks, a take-home project, digital badge, and a photo recap for parents. Lunch is not included — please pack one.
What is your refund policy for workshops?
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Full refund if cancelled 48+ hours before the workshop. Within 48 hours, we offer a credit or reschedule. No refund for no-shows.
What is your refund policy for camps?
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Full refund if cancelled 14+ days before camp starts. 50% refund if cancelled within 14 days. No refund within 72 hours of the camp start date.
What if TinkerTrail cancels a session?
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If we cancel or reschedule a session for any reason, you will receive a full refund or a free transfer to the next available date — your choice.
