Brooklyn Robot Foundry

Can’t say enough good things about the Gowanus location. My 6yr daughter LOVES the camps here. She has attended several in the area and this is hands down her favorite. She actually requests extended day! Staff is stellar and they learn and build such cool stuff. I do find their mobile site a little tricky to navigate and I wish they sent out an email the day before detailing the activities, but aside from that this is 6 stars, IMO.

Staff at Brooklyn Robot Foundry went above and beyond for my son who attended the summer camp program to ensure he felt comfortable and confident enough to participate in the activities. Every summer it’s a huge challenge to find a camp my guy is willing to go back to and upon discussing my challenges with program leadership, they listened, offered super helpful guidance and immediately put in place successful and strong supports and choice for my son. These interventions made all the difference and it was amazing to see my son feel successful and want to go back to a camp (and he came home with the coolest projects!). A huge shout out to Jennifer, Travis and Veronica for making this possible!

Sent my nephew here for a week of summer camp and he loved it. Is already talking about going back again next year! They were kept busy making various sorts of robots, and creative play during the after hours program until 6pm. He proudly came home every day with all the different things he had created. He was at the 3rd Ave location, but they have now moved to Atlantic Ave, so I will be interested to see what they do with even more space than the fun location they were at.

Highly recommended. This is the day camp that my six year old daughter consistently asks for. We've been to both the Atlantic Ave and Tribeca locations and she's loved them both.

This is a quirky little store, a close relative of the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co. The store section is relatively small, with a few kits and miscellaneous parts for making your robots. There's definitely enough for gifting the engineering student in your life. The focus seems to be on teaching, though, with classes geared toward everyone from grade-schoolers to drunken bachelor parties.

This place is terrible. Do not let your children be picked up by them. Their runners are irresponsible and negligent when it comes to dealing with children. They would not let my son go back and get his gloves when it is 24 degrees outside and they were still on school grounds. The lack of common sense is truly scary.

A great and unique summer camp option for kids.

Wonderful place for kids to learn about basic circuits

I took my sixth grade students to the Brooklyn Robot Foundry for a class trip. This place is AMAZING!!!! First, the staff is so kind and welcoming, and they're great with the students!!! The students were very engaged and learned a lot. This was definitely a memorable and educational trip--the kids got to decorate and keep their robots while learning about circuits and building! The staff also really engaged and helped the students navigate to. The space is also nice--big and welcoming, but not too big so you will not get lost. I would definitely go back again!!! If you want a class trip the students will love and never forget, this is the place!!!! Thank you Brooklyn Robot Foundry--I cannot say enough nice things!!!! This is fantastic!!!!

Great option for No School days. My son came home from his first camp with two robots, and a new passion for building and making things. He loves school, but has been asking me when it's closed again so that he can go back. I had little interaction due to COVID restrictions, but emails were clear and check-in / out was organized. Public health precautions met my expectations (temperatures, masks, hand washing, etc.) The new space is a little further away, but seems much bigger and looked very fun. My son reports the instructors are nice and he loved the activities and the playground time.

Brooklyn Robot Foundry is not providing the services that parents paid for and is seeking to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic by keeping parents' money. Dissatisfied trying to get a refund from Brooklyn Robot Foundry for summer or other sessions? We believe that their policies unfair and invalid if they're not providing the service that parents paid for. Join us in legal action - email mrjslade@yahoo.com for more information.

I have to agree with what others have written. I am very disappointed by their unwillingness to offer refunds now that summer camp isn't happening. Their tone in communication is cool and aloof and their approach is all around disappointing and, frankly, unacceptable. It's not the Brooklyn way. Pay parents the money that you owe them!

I'm extremely upset that I'm being forced to do an on-line course with my son and pay the same amount and have no option to cancel or at least get a discount for the program. I find this place very corporate, very bottom-line, and very expensive. The program is not taking into account individual situations during this difficult time. I would avoid! There are plenty of other camps that teach basic engineering and building concepts.

Awful, awful, awful. Do not go near this place! Highly unprofessional and extremely overpriced. Plus they have no refund policy. At all! Stay away.

Wow, does my child ever love this place. He's 4 1/2 and loves anything tactile but particularly building things, and this place is absolute heaven for him. He leaves having learned something awesome with a fully formed project that he built and decorated himself in hand. Everyone who works here is incredibly nice to boot. I can't say enough about it and am so glad it is close enough for us to expose him to this great resource for years to come. If your child has any interest in how things work, in building things or just in any sort of creative outlet, definitely give this place a shot. It's really great and a bargain for what they offer.

What a fun and welcoming place! Hubby and I discovered the robot foundry on a "How About We" date. We came for a "class" on a Saturday night. BYOB with tons of really good snacks provided (hummus, pita chips, cookies, chips and salsa). Joshua and Kathleen were our leaders for the night. Josh was especially friendly and outgoing and geeked out a lot with us (he kept running around and taking out robot projects he had done with his kids' classes to show them off. They were also admittedly much more involved and impressive than our own motorized robots.) We each built the same robot our of a tin, and then they let us loose with the rest of the crafting supplies to personalize our robots before "fighting" them in the robot arena. "Fighting" is probably too strong of a word - they just kind of buzzed around, bumping into each other. Seeing everyone's crazy creativity was the highlight of the evening. Made for a really unique date night and an overall great experience! Highly recommend.

I took my godson to this class since he's interested in technology. Our instructor Jeff was very flexible and accommodating to the entire group. I will be returning to future classes.

UPDATE: I totally disagree with the owner's assertion that I agreed to give her a 4-star or 5-star review after our conversation. She's correct in that I shared my concerns with her over the phone. When she asked me to change the review, I told her that I needed to get off the phone (I was in the middle of picking up my son from camp). I stand by this review 100%. "Meh. I've experienced better" sums up our experience perfectly. I have to say that my wife were disappointed with the summer camp at Brooklyn Robot Foundry (we signed our son up for two weeks at the end of August, and our son didn't mind skipping 2 days). I would say that the value for price proposition here is subpar. On the positive side, the kids do make some interesting, off-the-wall robots -- my sense is that this venue might be better for a shorter-term experience like a birthday party or after-school program, as opposed to a longer-term experience like a full-day summer camp. The hands-on camp counselors (the ones who actually interact with the kids) seemed nice. As far as the negatives go, I think there are several: 1. I don't think the facilities are anything special -- the Brooklyn location is in a cramped, non-descript space right in the midst of the hustle and bustle of 3rd Avenue in Gowanus. 2. After his first day, our son came home saying that the camp was boring, and he didn't want to go back. His happiest day at camp was the last one (we pulled him out of camp a day early and he was beside himself with joy). This was disappointing to us, particularly because our little guy loves building things and learning. 3. I found the primary point person (her name is Hope) at the Brooklyn location to have an obnoxious and condescending tone, and her demeanor reminded me of someone you might encounter at the DMV or another government bureaucracy. She seemed to regale in saying no and exercising her "authority" over a lowly parent like myself. One day at drop-off, she flat out refused to help put sunscreen on my son prior to the afternoon outing, because she was expressly not allowed to. When I inquired as to why Brooklyn Robot Foundry didn't have a parental authorization form (like every other summer camp our son has ever attended), she gleefully repeated that she wasn't allowed to. On another occasion, when I was debating picking up my son early from camp, she refused to give me a straight answer as to what time the afternoon robot building exercise would conclude. We went back and forth several times while she profusely avoided giving me a straight answer. Seriously? 4. My biggest issue with Brooklyn Robot Foundry was that it was unusually difficult to get in touch with them when the need arose. At the end of the day, they are a kid's enrichment place, not a high security clearance government lab. When my son complained about feeling sick on his second day of camp, the camp failed to call any of the primary contact phone numbers provided to them, choosing instead to call my wife at work. And, lastly and most concerningly, when I called to check up on him, I couldn't get through to anyone because they don't answer the phone. I first called the direct number, which went into voice mail. I then called the answering service, waited on hold for 5-10 minutes, and was ultimately told to call back if I didn't get a response in 15 minutes. And the answering service person's oh so caring response to me when I told her I was unhappy with the process was, "Sir, I've done everything I'm supposed to do." Alrighty then. So glad that you're so focused on yourself. How about focusing on the well being of my son? I'm glad other parents have had a better experience here, but, unfortunately, we didn't see the same level of care and attention during our time at this establishment. We won't be back. If you're a parent looking for a summer program for your child, I'd suggest checking out "Construction Kids". My son liked that program much more than the Brooklyn Robot Foundry.

My 5-yr-old daughter enjoys but it is expensive. In addition to the class fee, there's a $15 materials fee per project. Yet materials for her projects have been in the $2-$5 range.

The consistent theme with the other reviewers is we also crossed two bridges to go play at the Brooklyn Robot Foundry. Great alternative / innovative idea birthday party theme, especially if your child's birthday is during the winter. We attended a birthday and the kids had a ball with making there own robots. Definitely worth a try can accommodate about 20 kids comfortably. There is a pizzeria next door that you can order pizzas from.

Kids just finished one week at Robot foundry and loved it! (7 and 9 years old). On the first day en route there was a mini mutiny taking place because they did not think it was a good idea. After pick up the first day I had all smiles and excited chatter about what they learned that day. Every morning after they were so happy to go. It is an expensive camp and now I know why. They really make useable robots with the kids of material that would last. Additionally every day I get an email detailing the key earning points for the activity they did that day which made for conversation pieces with the kids. Happy Mom and Kids. Highly recommend!

The family robotic class was both entertaining and informational. Our instructor Jeff was very knowledgeable and patient with both the children and adults. We will definitely be returning!

I found this place completely by accident and was amazed at what they offer. I would call it retro toys for kids who appreciate science. I was just blown away and fascinated. This isn't your average toy store this is a place were kids come to explore their interests. While I was there I saw a kid walk in with his sister or babysitter, he was about the age of 5 or 6 and his reaction to this place made me wanna be him. They need more places like this around for kids, in a world of digital everything, a place like this will make you see things differently and ask how and why, which can take a kid a long way. Definitely would recommend this place parents who wanna give their kid more than play time but an educational experience.

This place is definitely a cool place for kids and big kids alike if you are interested in science and robots. I came here for a field trip for some kids at the school I worked at. All the staff is knowledgeable and polite and are all great teachers. The kids had a chance to build their own robot after the lesson they got from the staff. We stayed for about 1hour and a half. The store was closed for us to be there. It was a small place that was lively decorated. If there is something I should say is that their bathroom should have a lock, and they should have more chairs or perhaps a bigger area for chaperones/teachers.

Not very organized and terrible bedside manner. Had a very upsetting booking experience. Once there- my child, who loves technology, felt ostracized and discouraged. I recommend BK Bots, Geek Forest & Columbia U. Don't waste your money.

I was/am disappointed with Brooklyn Robot Foundry. My son recently attended a camp there and learned little to nothing about engineering, robots, technology...basically any of the things you would expect from this place. The majority of time at the camp was spent playing at a park...what does that have to do with robots??? The time actually spent on making robots was uncreative and repetitive with no clear focus on building on previous learnings or developing a skillset. The robots themselves were largely facsimiles of each other with only cosmetic differences. As others have mentioned here, the prices charged are too high for what's delivered. Making matters more frustrating for me, I booked my son's camp the day before (literally) Brooklyn Robot Foundry had a sale. When I mentioned this to the Foundry I was told I was simply out of luck and no adjustment could be made. Personally, I think that's a little unethical, both in terms of not letting a customer know that a sale is happening the next day and then not taking corrective measures.

My kids (7 and nearly 6) just finished a week of camp and they LOVED it. They really enjoyed making something on their own every day that actually worked. I liked that they walked to the park every day for lunch. My son said that he wished that he could have been in after care there. That is the first time he has ever said that about a camp.

Outstanding!! My 8 year old was lucky enough to attend a week of summer camp at Brooklyn Robot Foundry and after two days we begged to get into a second week. We originally signed up after hearing about it from a friend and were totally blown away by the experience. The team at BRF was beyond exceptional. Warm, caring, highly engaging and educational. My son not only came back each day raving about how wonderful his "counselors" were but was eager to show off his robots and new found knowledge. As mentioned by the other reviewers Dave and Jenny are phenomenal and demonstrated a wonderful understanding of and appreciation of all the children. They were also incredibly responsive and accommodating when I needed to sneak my son in a bit early to make an early morning meeting, inviting him in to help set up and making him feel very, very important.

I have had a very upsetting party booking experience with this place. First I booked a "silver" party for my son who is 6 years old (turning 7). He had been to parties there before and was excited about doing the parachute thing. I paid the deposit and sent out invites for a party that was going to be $550. First they told me that since my son was turning 7, even though many of his friends are younger, we were ineligible for the party we signed up for and would have to do the "gold" party which is $750 up to 10 kids. I had already invited more than 10 but luckily it being summer many people are away so we were squeaking in under the wire. Then 3 days before the party I had one kid change their reply so I would be at 11 kids and the place doesn't return my calls or emails but instead sends me a generic email saying that if you are over 10 you will get charged $100 per kid plus a mandatory 20% gratuity on the entire bill meaning it would now be $1000 for 11 6-7 year olds to build cardboard robots. I never complain on these sites but I feel very upset about the way this was handled and I would strongly discourage anyone from trying to plan a party at this place. Your child's birthday is supposed to be a special time to be happy and celebrate and it has become a very stressful unpleasant experience where I have been forced to go back to friends and apologetically ask them not to come to my sons birthday party. Terrible policies, over priced, and poor customer service. Be warned. Like the previous review I read by Vik, I also have been communicating with Hope over email who is impossible to get on the phone and unresponsive on email and and seems generally unsympathetic.

My wife and I had out son's 4th birthday at Brooklyn Robot Foundry and it was so much fun. My son and his friends had a wonderful time. Even days after, my son's friends from school kept talking about the party. The staff did an amazing job with the children. They were accommodating, attentive, pleasant while they guided the kids with their activity (Flying Floaties). My wife and I are already planning for my son's next birthday at Brooklyn Robot Foundry.

My daughter (7 yrs) has been doing lots of camps this summer - and she just voted BRF as her favorite! She made a robotic dog that zips around our house and comes out for walks. The giant robot that the kids built together was one of the coolest things I've ever seen. The counselors are great and obviously love their jobs. It's an inspiring environment and my daughter did so much in just one week - it gave her lots of confidence.

We had my son's birthday party at the Robot Foundry, and he's taken a brush bot class there -- and the word "awesome" was used repeatedly by kids and adults alike. Because it was, well, awesome! It was a neat mix of complete focus and gleeful delight. Dave and Jenny had a great way with the kids and guided them every step of the way. I'm psyched that this is in the neighborhood and can't recommend it enough.

I don't understand how this place operates. Their counselors are morose, non-talkative and seemingly introverts, except for Alexis. You would think that they, and the owner, would be properly trained to greet campers and parents alike. And as an aside--I wonder why all the staff is white? This is a science-based camp, very close to Brooklyn Tech. And after all, we are in Brooklyn. I like a little diversity both in the classroom and among staff. Sadly, there no diversity among the staff.

my 8 year old son has his birthday party at the brooklyn robot foundry this past spring. we had 8 or 9 kids at the robot foundry and it was AMAZING! jenny, dave, and their employees are incredible- total professionals, and also genuinely excited about robots, kids, and teaching. it's a rare combination! my son and his friends had an amazing time, built cool robots and all left excited about what they'd learned and done and wanting to go back. many of them told their parents it was the coolest birthday party they'd ever been to...and you know what? it was!

This is hands down the best after school program we have ever done. My son (6) has been coming here for a year, and they have never repeated a project. Not only that, every kid's project is unique. Where else is there such a great place for creativity and fun? I hope he never outgrows it.

My 8-year old son is picky/hesitant about summer camp & after-school activities, but he is excited to go to the Brooklyn Robot Foundry. The kids are so proud of their creations. David & Jenny are so great! I'm amazed at the calm and focused learning environment -- and how much they accomplish in the workshops and each day at summer camp.

My husband and I visited the shop during a How About We date last month. We had a blast! This shop isn't just for kids, can we fun for adults too. Robots + BYOB = a great time.

Just had a fantastic birthday party for my 4 year old here. The staff were great with the kids and the kids absolutely loved it. Can't wait to come back for more activities here.