Grandparents and grandchildren share college experience

One hundred grandparents and grandchildren went away to college this week and moved into Grand Valley. They lived on campus, took classes, ate in the dining halls and had fun in the Fieldhouse.

G3 — “Grandparents, Grandkids, Grand Valley” — is a summer camp experience for children ages 8-12 and their grandparents. Families spent three days and two nights on campus, taking part in hands-on learning activities in areas like art, history, math, engineering, technology and law enforcement.

Class sessions were taught by Grand Valley faculty members and held during the day in the campus academic buildings in Allendale. In the evening, families took part in activities including swimming, volleyball, the rock climbing wall, and ping pong.

The camp began on June 26 and ended with a graduation luncheon ceremony in the Alumni House June 28.

“This type of summer camp is a growing trend in universities,” said Karen Meyers, director of the Regional Math and Science Center. “The camp provides a great opportunity for generations to connect in a fun and educational environment. The goal is to offer educational activities that will strengthen the family bond, give children a college-life experience and create many positive memories for family members.” 

G3 is sponsored by Grand Valley’s Regional Math and Science Center and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.