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. 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.

2024/25 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

2024/25 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 can schedule any of our school programs for their group and qualify for school program rates.

School Group Programs

For questions or to schedule your homeschool program email

Sergei Gourski, 07/06/24
Easy to spend 4+hrs with kids here!
Chip Work, 07/01/18
We stopped by here on the suggestion of 2 NH natives as a place our 10 year old grandson would enjoy. Well to use "enjoy" would be an understatement, if I were to describe my grandson's experience. There are so many different exhibits, each inviting and engaging young and old minds alike. The animal habitats are brilliant in design. We watched a presentation on the porcupine that had my techno-geek grandson filling up the Q & A session with his curiosity gone wild. The whole staff is very knowledgeable, professional, and polite. The trail and exhibits are clean and well kept. The whole experience was great for our grandson and myself as well.
Michelle Whisnant, 07/13/19
Loved my visit here. Animals are well cared for, great old school exhibits. So many extra areas and playgrounds for kids. Nice shady walk and lots of extras to do in the area.
Ashley Moulton, 11/08/21
Really amazing! Stroller friendly! Hands on learning. great for all ages. The grounds and animals are well cared for. There are learning sessions with live animals. The playground was a favorite for my 6 year old.
Betsy Budesky, 09/21/24
We hosted another couple from out of state 11am Friday 9/20/24. None of us had experienced this 90 minute pontoon boat ride showcasing Squam Lake. It was truly wonderful. We would highly recommend it. We were warmly welcomed by staff and we were made to feel very comfortable all throughout. Pierce narrated the tour. We hung on to his every word. He's a warm, attentive steward. This is a must do activity for everyone who lives here and for those visiting. History, nature. Terrific.