2026 Staff
Lauren Martin
I'm Lauren Martin, the director of Cool Aunt Creatives, and I'm thrilled to introduce you to our Cool Aunt Jr programming. With a background in landscape architecture and a specialization in environmental psychology and playground design, I bring an educational perspective to our camp experiences. As a dance teacher, however, I understand the importance of movement, creative expression, and most importantly, fun in child development.
My passion for the outdoors and adventure has always been a big part of my life, especially when performing my Cool Aunt duties with my even cooler niece and nephew. Over the years, I've had the joy of coordinating and instructing nature and crafts camps in other cities, where I've seen firsthand the impact these experiences can have on children.
In Guelph for the summer of 2024, I'm excited to bring these experiences to life at Cool Aunt Jr Summer Camp. Join me for a summer filled with creativity, exploration, and unforgettable memories!
2026 Guelph summer camps
July 13-17 | Time Travellers' Camp
Time Travellers Camp
July 13–17, 2026 | Full Day (9am–4pm)
Location: Trinity United Church, 400 Stevenson St N, Guelph ON N1E 5C3, Guelph
Campers travel through different time periods each day—exploring history, nature, and storytelling through immersive games, outdoor adventures, and creative crafts. From ancient worlds to futuristic ideas, this camp blends imagination with real-world learning and plenty of time outside.
*Free before and after care available from 8am-9am and 4pm-5pm.
July 20-24 | Arts Studio Samplers Camp
Arts Studio Week: Art Samplers Camp (NEW!)
July 20–24, 2026 | Half Day (12pm–4pm)
Location: 10C Shared Space – Activity Room, Guelph
Ages: 11+
Focuses on classical art forms such as fine arts, drama, and dance. Campers will explore creative expression through drawing, painting, movement, performance, and collaborative projects. Designed for older kids and teens who want to try a little bit of everything, Art Samplers introduces campers to a range of creative disciplines in a relaxed, low-pressure environment that encourages exploration and skill-building.
August 10-24 | Enchanted Forest & Mythical Creatures Camp
Enchanted Forest & Mythical Creatures Camp
August 10–14, 2026 | Full Day (9am–4pm)
Location: Trinity United Church, 400 Stevenson St N, Guelph ON N1E 5C3, Guelph
A nature-forward camp focused on forests, ecosystems, and imaginative play. Campers explore the outdoors, create with natural and art materials, and build a deeper connection to the environment through the eyes of their favourites mythical creatures.
*Free before and after care available from 8am-9am and 4pm-5pm.
August 17-21 | Creative Lab Samplers Camp
Creative Lab Week: Art Samplers Camp (NEW!)
August 17–21, 2026 | Half Day (12pm–4pm)
Location: 10C Shared Space – Activity Room, Guelph
Ages: 11+
Focuses on hands-on making and crafting, including textiles, fiber arts, mixed media, and experimental materials. Campers are encouraged to design, build, and create using both traditional and unconventional tools. Designed for older kids and teens who want to try a little bit of everything, Art Samplers introduces campers to a range of creative disciplines in a relaxed, low-pressure environment that encourages exploration and skill-building.