Welcome to College for Kids, A Summer Exploration, Inc. 2026! For 38 years, College for Kids has provided gifted children in Missouri and outlining states with an opportunity for educational and social growth during the summers, now located on the campus of Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. College for Kids, Inc. is delighted to have the opportunity to share this beautiful and safe college environment for the summer of 2026.
2026 brings exciting classes and activities to College for Kids. When filling out the class selection of the application, please remember, to select both morning and afternoon classes indicating your top four choices for each, using one through four (one as your first choice, four as your last choice). College for Kids provides accelerated learning experiences specifically for academically talented students completing grades 3 - 9. College for Kids combines rigorous academic experiences with fun and exciting social opportunities. CK classes address contemporary issues and problems using a higher level of integrative, analytical, and critical thinking. Class curriculum encourages awareness of and respect for divergence in thought among academic peers. The CK experience also allows students to explore different academic content and methodologies in various disciplines.
College for Kids also addresses the physical needs of students today. Everyday CK takes time for physical exercise, in various classes, evening activities and during Recreation time. Exercise and physical fitness are necessary to fully realize one’s potential. Please be sure to bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, tennis shoes that lace/Velcro and SOCKS!
College for Kids provides an excellent opportunity for gifted students to learn and socialize with their intellectual peers. Rather than being singled out and labeled as the “smart kid” in a regular classroom, students are surrounded by peers who share their interests and abilities. It is the friendships, just as much as the learning, that make kids want to return to College for Kids year after year.
This booklet contains all the information you need to enroll in College for Kids 2026. If you have any questions or need additional forms (you have CK’s permission to print registration, health and certification forms for enrollment purposes), call or email your inquiries. Please remember it is important to get your application in early, classes and dormitory facilities often fill quickly. Early registration can also save you money.
Please be sure to read the information on this site. The College for Kids staff and I look forward to a unique and challenging experience for the summer of 2026; as we join together for a week of learning to express ourselves more intuitively, in abstract ways.
"Sail away from the safe harbor.
Catch the trade winds in your sails.
Explore.
Dream.
Discover."
-Mark Twain
Looking forward to seeing you this summer at CK!
Sue Craghead
Director
College for Kids A Summer Exploration, Inc
Email: collegeforkids@hotmail.com
2026 Registration forms coming in February.
In its thirty-eight-year, College for Kids, A Summer Exploration is an intense, fast paced, academic and social experience for gifted students in grades 3-9. Over 17,700 students have been a part of this summer exploration. Former and current “CKers” are now changing the world; each in his/her own unique way. I look forward to following the CK traditions and to making new ones as we come together on the campus of Westminster College for CK 2026! Plan on a week of learning and far-reaching challenges as you hit CK with zeal.
During CK 2026 students will participate in weeklong intensive courses in the areas of philosophy, psychology, world cultures, mock trial, debate, art, painting, music, building, cooking, digital media, magic, nuclear chemistry, logic, cyber security, engineering, broadcasting, chemistry, fitness, games, robotics, computer programming, Harry Potter, history, or mathematics… and this is just some of our classes. In each class you have opportunities to learn with academic peers under the mentorship of dynamic teachers. Explore paradoxes, create puzzles, debate ideas, and create from inspiration, as you learn about topics of interest to you. After classes are over each day, you will continue to be engaged in favorite CK traditions and evening activities under the direction of Residential Advisors.
Residential Advisors live in the halls with CK students, one RA per 10-12 students. CK RA's are hand-picked CK alumni and live throughout Missouri and in various other states during the school year. They come together to bring enthusiasm and traditions to create an environment where learning is cool. We hope they become your friends and mentors and that you jump into all activities with enthusiasm. Join in the fun as you and your friends live, play and work together in the most creative surroundings.
Join us for a week of fun-packed academic challenges in a dynamic learning environment, surrounded by like-minded friends, mentors and teachers!
Enter the World of CK 2026 Asking:
“WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE?"
Leave College for Kids Embracing the Phrase:
“I WILL DO SOMETHING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!"
See you soon!
Marilyn Toalson
Director of Residential Life
College for Kids A Summer Exploration, Inc
Email: collegeforkids@hotmail.com
2026 Registration forms coming in February.
For nearly 40 years, College for Kids has given bright and curious students from Missouri and surrounding states an exciting place to learn, make friends, and explore new ideas during the summer. In 2026, we’re proud to once again host our program on the beautiful and safe campus of Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri!
This summer is packed with fun, challenging, and creative classes designed just for academically talented students who have completed grades 3–9. At College for Kids, learning goes beyond the classroom—you’ll investigate big ideas, solve interesting problems, and discover new subjects in ways you may have never tried before.
When choosing classes on your application, be sure to select both morning and afternoon classes. You’ll rank your top four choices for each time period (1 = first choice, 4 = last choice). This helps us build the best possible schedule for you.
College for Kids combines fast-paced learning with awesome social experiences, so you can challenge your brain while meeting other students who love learning as much as you do. Our classes encourage creative thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and respect for different ideas—all while having a great summer experience.
We can’t wait to explore, learn, and have fun with you in Summer 2026!
Whitney Wrast
Director of Academics
College for Kids A Summer Exploration, Inc
Email: collegeforkids@hotmail.com
2026 Registration forms coming in February.