When does a scientific mentality begin, and why? Vertebrate paleontologist Edward Drinker Cope (1840-1897), known for Cope's Rule--that organisms of a species tend to get larger over time--recorded observations of "Ichthyosaurus," an extinct marine reptile, at the tender age of 6. He was obviously an inquisitive child. What about students of today? Might they forego computer games, social media, and TV to participate in scientific learning during their weekends and summer vacations? And can the professional scientists who donate their time to help them simultaneously conduct legitimate scientific research? The answer to these questions is a resounding "Yes!" For over a decade, the authors have recruited high school students and their younger siblings, parents, and grandparents to participate in summer camps focused on entomology, wildlife, and natural resources. In this article, the authors share some citizen science entomology investigations and suggest how to incorporate them as "backyard extensions" of one's own classroom lessons. (Contains 6 figures and 9 online resources.)