Campers had a day they will never forget at Disneyland.
The much-anticipated day at Disneyland finally arrived! Campers, decked out in their matching red Summer Academy T-shirts, excitedly waited for their trip to the Magic Kingdom.
The day started out with an Energy and Waves workshop led by the energetic Disneyland staff. Students got a lesson on electrons, magnets and electromagnetic fields, learning the physics behind one of Disney's fastest attractions -- the California Screamin' rollercoaster. They learned that due to a large magnetic pull, the coaster goes from zero to 55 miles per hour in just four seconds. Screams were definitely heard as campers experienced the speed of the ride first-hand!
Once they caught their breath, the campers were off to learn about sound waves and how sound travels best through a solid substance versus through the air. Inside the Bug's Life Theater, campers observed how Disneyland uses sound waves to put together a fun, interactive 3D show called "It's Tough to Be a Bug!," which produced many laughs.
Before heading off to the Tower of Terror, their final ride of the workshop, campers learned about visible light and reflection to understand the two-way mirrors that are integral to the ride. In addition to having fun while learning the physics of each ride, these campers now have a new perspective on what it takes to build a ride that is fun, imaginative and safe.
In small groups of five, they dispersed for a quick lunch and mapped out their best plan of attack to ensure entry on as many rides as possible. Some beat the heat by getting soaked on the Grizzly River Run while others headed over to Space Mountain for a blast through solar systems and passing comets.
A big thanks goes to all the wonderful people at Disneyland who graciously supported this fun-filled day with complimentary Park Hopper tickets and behind-the-scenes workshops.
One of the campers said it best while giving TWLC Executive Director Kathy Bihr a hug. "Thank you so much for sponsoring me so that I could be here today."
There is no doubt these kids had a day they will never forget at the "happiest place on Earth!"
