Homeschool
These field-based programs are designed to help students ages 5-12 gain a deeper understanding of the natural world through fun and hands-on experiences.
*NEW* Ijams Homeschool Days
During Ijams Homeschool Days, Ijams staff inspire students to explore classroom concepts in a natural context through inquiry and experiential learning. All sessions are held fully outside, with exceptions for visiting animal exhibits, inclement weather, or at the discretion of Ijams educators. Programming is designed to deepen students’ connections to place, with each other, and with the natural world, all while fostering their curiosity.
General Information
​AGE ELIGIBILITY
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Homeschool Days are designed for homeschool students ages 5-12. All ages will stay together until programming begins, at which time they will split into groups based on age (as long as there are enough registrations. Each group will have 15 students or less. Parents or guardians are required to remain with their homeschooler for the duration of the program as a chaperone.
Spring 2024 Homeschool Field Trip Days Information:
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Dates and Topics:
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January 27: Ecosystem Exploration
Discover how plants, animals, and their habitats connect to form ecosystems. Hands-on activities will bring these relationships to life. -
February 10: Landscapes and Geology
Uncover the secrets of rocks, landforms, and geological processes that shape our world. Learn how geology influences the landscapes we see every day. -
March 10: Nature’s Recyclers
Dive into the fascinating world of decomposition and the organisms that break down nature’s leftovers. See how recyclers like fungi and insects keep ecosystems thriving. -
April 14: Animal and Plant Adaptations
Explore the amazing ways plants and animals adapt to survive in their environments. Observe adaptations up close and learn why they’re essential for survival. -
May 12: Watersheds and Ponding
Investigate water ecosystems by dip netting and discovering creatures that call ponds home. Learn how watersheds support life and impact the environment.
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Cost: $15/student/date
Register for as many dates as you’d like. Each session offers unique content tailored to the topic.
Homeschool Day Structure:
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Both Homeschool Field Trip Days will generally follow the same program schedule:
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9 am - Arrival
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9-9:15 am - Welcome, get a parking pass, restroom, and snack (BYO snack). During this time, we also check in with parents and guardians about group needs and chaperone expectations. We highly recommend having a snack at the start of the day because the program ends at noon.
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9:15-11:30 am - Programming
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11:30 am-12 pm - Live animal presentation (two animals will be presented)
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12 pm - Optional picnic lunch, free play with other students, chat with other homeschool parents
* Time limitations, group size, and/or weather conditions may require altering this schedule.
* Programs will start on time, and we will be hiking the Ijams trails. If you are late you risk missing the programming.
HOMESCHOOL POLICIES​
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Please CAREFULLY read the policies during the registration process. Signing up for Ijams Homeschool Day(s) indicates your intent to comply with these policies and procedures.
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Students must be in the age range of their registered group by the date of the first session.
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Most of the Ijams trails are unpaved and have roots and other bumps. If you are planning on bringing a stroller or have a concern about the trails, please email kpreston@ijams.org ahead of time so that we can discuss any modifications that we can make.
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During all sessions, parents or guardians MUST remain as a chaperone with their homeschooler the entire time of programming. However, trail space is limited. Please limit attending grown-ups to 2 adults per student(s).
Please contact Kylie Preston with any questions about Homeschool Days at kpreston@ijams.org
