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Outdoor, Nature Based Homeschool Program

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


4-week Late Fall Session:  Nov 29, Dec 6, 13, 20


Join us for an immersive homeschool session as we experience the change of seasons and the land 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 will 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, 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! Some of our focus areas will include leaf chromatography, foraging, migration and adaptations, bird behavior, dendrology, plant communities, animal preparations for winter and more.


Activity Examples:​

  • Learn how our local wildlife prepares for the colder months, as we observe nests, caches and food sources, look for animal habitats, check the bird feeders, and do some birdwatching.
  • 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'll forage for mint, spruce and pine needles to make our own seasonal tea.
  • Late fall is the perfect time to explore the science of firemaking and gather around the campfire to share stories and work on our nature journals.
  • We'll finish our classes with a sit spot and time to reflect and share.​​ 

Schedule a Maple Sugaringprogram for your co-op, pod or group in Feb-Mar!

The New Weis Center offers many options for the homeschool community, including field trips that can be scheduled for your group, and weekly multi-week sessions from Sep-May (see below). Many of ourindividual public programs andscout programs may also be scheduled privately for your group, pod or co-op. Homeschool groups may also rent our facilities for their own classes and events, including campfires, the covered pavilion, and classrooms.

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

Payments and Donations

“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

HOMESCHOOL

​​​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 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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