Living Art: Bonsai Basics -- Summer 2026
Introduce your child to the ancient and fascinating art of bonsai in this specialty camp designed especially for the curious beginner. This engaging, beginner-friendly camp blends creative gardening, hands-on learning, and artistic expression in a fun and encouraging environment.
Throughout the camp, students will discover what bonsai is, where it comes from, and how living trees can be shaped and cared for over time. Campers will learn and practice essential bonsai techniques such as planting, potting, safe pruning, shaping, watering, and basic maintenance—while developing patience, focus, and respect for living plants.
**What Campers Will Learn**
* Basic bonsai principles and age-appropriate history
* How to plant and pot a bonsai tree
* Safe pruning and shaping techniques
* Understanding soil, water, and sunlight needs
* Long-term care and responsibility for living plants
**Skills & Values Reinforced**
* Patience and focus
* Responsibility and nurturing habits
* Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
* Creativity and artistic expression
* Curiosity about nature and living systems
* Confidence through hands-on accomplishment
**All supplies are included.** Each camper will create and take home their own bonsai tree in a pot, along with **simple care instructions** so they can continue caring for their bonsai at home all summer long.
This summer enrichment camp is perfect for children who enjoy nature, creativity, and learning by doing—and who love bringing home a meaningful project they can be proud of.
When: Monday, June 15 - Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Where: North Campus
Eligible Grades: 5th-8th
Cost: $375
Instructor: Connor Wolf
Instructor’s Bio:
Connor Wolf is a Madison County resident who lives with his wife and two daughters. He is no stranger to the St. Andrews community, having served multiple times as both a guest chef and a guest classroom reader.
Connor is a passionate bonsai gardening enthusiast who enjoys the patience and creativity the art requires. In his professional life, he is a formally trained chef. In his free time, he can often be found on the golf course, cooking for family and friends, or spending quality time with his two little girls—his favorite role of all.
Complete their week! For an additional $200, your camper can complete their week with day camp before their Bonsai Basics Camp.
5th - 8th graders can join Explorer Camp on the North Campus.
After Camp Care is available until 5:45 p.m. on the North Campus for an additional charge, or you can pick up your camper at 3:30 p.m. from the North Campus.