Homeschool Programs

Hands-on Learning for Homeschoolers

First Thursday of each month November-April
10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
For ages 4 to 6 and ages 7 to 10

Join us at this monthly series for homeschooled students to learn about the natural world through hands-on activities and investigations. We will wrap up each program with a visit with one of our live animal ambassadors.

Advance registration is required. If a session is full, we will open a second timeslot from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. Register for one program or attend the whole series. Activities take place both indoors and outdoors. Dress to be outdoors with insulated boots, hats, gloves, jackets, and warm layers when appropriate.

Cost per session: $12/member child; $15/non-member child

An adult must participate with children at no additional cost. Each additional adult pays child fee.

2024 Program Topics Ages 4-6:

November 7 – Plant Parts: Structures and Functions
December 5 – Animal Parts: Structures and Functions
January 2 – Animal Adaptations
February 6 – Track Detectives: Reading Animal Tracks & Signs in the Snow
March 6 – Heredity: Variation of Traits
April 3 – Insect Adventure

2024 Program Topics Ages 7-10:

November 7 – Weathering and Erosion
December 5 – Structural Adaptations in Plants
January 2 – Structural Adaptations in Mammals
February 6 – Animal Tracks in the Snow
March 6 – Structural Adaptations in Birds & Reptiles
April 3 – Senses: Animals Respond to Stimuli

Our homeschool programs are aligned to Next Generation Science Standards and NH College and Career Ready Science Standards. Homeschool groups qualify for school rates and custom programs.

School Group Programs

For questions or to schedule your homeschool program email

Vic Deadly, 10/10/23
The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a nature lover's dream. With engaging live animal presentations, informative exhibits, and scenic trails, it offers a perfect blend of education and enjoyment. The center's commitment to wildlife conservation shines through, making it a must-visit gem in the Lakes Region.
Merina Z, 07/21/24
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center offers an incredible educational experience set in the heart of New Hampshire's natural beauty. The well-maintained trails lead visitors through diverse habitats, allowing close encounters with native wildlife like black bears, river otters, and mountain lions. The center's knowledgeable staff and engaging exhibits make learning about local ecosystems both fun and informative. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to connect with the environment, this center is a must-visit destination. Will definitely be coming back!
Byron Styles, 09/03/19
A had a great time as did my 4 year old son. The dinosaur exhibit was awesome and I really emitted the walkthrough set up in a somewhat very natural setting. I'm normally not a big fan of caged wild animals but the broad variety of local wildlife they do have on exhibit were all injured in some way, shape, or form and wouldn't have survived had they not been rescued and prob wouldn't have survived had they been released back into the wild... So that was actual a small sigh of relief.
hi Take, 10/10/20
Great nature trail for kids. You can see approximately 10 animals in the trail for about 1 hour. A lot of educational resources in the exhibit. Additionally, there’s friendly crew.
Stephen Trajeski, 07/18/22
This is a really big nature center with Science involved. Good for the kids and adults to learn some everyday things about animals and insects. Love the big moving insects as you walk through the park. Would of gave it 5 starts but most of the animals were not even there. The costs is $22 for Adults fyi. It was a nice donation!