The New Weis Center offers many options for the homeschool community, including field trips that can be scheduled for your group, and weekly sessions from Sep-May (see below). Many of our individual public programs, seasonal programs (like maple sugaring, natural wreath weaving and pumpkin chunkin) and scout programs may also be scheduled privately for your group, pod or co-op. Homeschool groups are also welcome to rent our indoor and outdoor facilities for their own classes and events, including campfires and overnights (tents or cabins).​


Contact us for more information or to schedule a program, or call 973-835-2160

Payments and Donations

HOMESCHOOL

“Adventurous experiences out-of-doors are perceived to kindle the enthusiasm of the young, to develop their concern for others, for their community and for the environment. Such experiences provide the means of self-discovery, self-expression and enjoyment, which are at once both stimulating and fulfilling."

~ Lord Hunt of Llanfair Waterdine

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Nature Based Homeschool Program

Ages 6-10  |  Wednesdays from 1:30-4:00pm​​


4-week Spring Session

Session 1: Mar 20, 27, April 10, 17


​Join us for an immersive homeschool session as we experience the change of seasons through a blend of mindfulness and scientific observation. Through a combination of ongoing projects and new activities each week, we will observe, interact with, and appreciate the nature that surrounds us. We'll also explore the land through nature journaling and observing wildlife on forest hikes, nature-inspired art crafts, and hands-on activities.


Lessons are active and outdoors (weather permitting), using our forest, field, gardens (rain, pollinator, vegetable, sensory) and stream as both classrooms and playground. The program incorporates games and group activities that focus on teamwork and socializing, in addition to STEM lessons about forest ecology and seasonal topics! 


Activity Examples:​

  • We'll use nature as our inspiration for some fun and creative art projects, experiments and activities.
  • Let's take a hike! We will explore our private trails and hike to a ridge with a viewpoint, as we learn to "Leave no Trace".
  • We will explore our vernal pools and look for spring ephemeral plants and flowers which are only seen during the Spring.
  • Melting snow and spring rains make this the perfect time of year to explore the Blue Mine Brook which flows through our property, and look for the tiny creatures that live there.
  • Spring is the perfect time to dive into the world of our feathered friends as they migrate back to the area.
  • We'll forage for spruce and pine needles to make our own seasonal tea.
  • We'll finish our classes with a sit spot and time to reflect and share.​​ 

​​​STAFF

  • Led by Lead Educator Lauren Lynch and our team of educators/naturalists. Learn more
  • Lead staff are CPR/AED and First Aid certified
  • Educator to student ratio of 1:9 or lower provides a safe and attentive environment


DETAILS

  • For ages 6-10
  • Each 4-week session meets on consecutive Wednesdays from 1:30-4:00pm
  • Program runs rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, we will move activities to the covered pavilion (with heaters) or inside to our classrooms.
  • Please do not send any snacks made with peanut butter or other tree nuts!
  • This is a DROP-OFF class. Parents/Guardians are welcome to remain onsite and wait in the main building (wi-fi available) or in one of our outdoor seating areas. In addition, you may choose to accompany the group for the first session to help your child(ren) feel comfortable.
  • Please drive in through the outer gate and our staff will meet you at the kiosk next to the picnic grove.


PRICE (per student, per 4-week session) - ​payment in full is due upon registration
$170 - Standard Rate
$160 - Siblings Rate (each sibling)
$150 - CURRENT New Weis Center Member Rate*

​*Members at the "Supporter" level ($75 and up) are eligible for the discounted rate. Learn more about membership.


CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS​

  • A $35 processing fee applies to ALL refunds
  • Full refunds (less the $35 fee) will be issued for cancellation requests received at least two weeks before the first class.
  • 50% refund (less the $35 fee) will be issued for cancellation requests received with less than two weeks notice before the first class.
  • Due to high demand and small group size, we cannot offer partial refunds if you miss a week.​


> We reserve the right to remove any child without refund due to unacceptable behavior, and to reschedule or change programs as needed.​​

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