Homeschool Events and Programs in NJ

Updated for 2020-21 School Year!

Many families make the decision to homeschool their children. Whether it’s for financial reasons, they are unhappy with the public school system or they feel their children will learn better in the comfort of their own home, homeschooling is an option that many families are choosing more and more. Although lessons at home are wonderful, opportunities for socialization are also very important. That is why I decided to put together a list of fun events, activities and programs geared specifically for homeschooled children.

Many of the programs I have found are wonderful additions to the curriculum implemented at-home. It also helps kids develop important social skills, enhance language development and increase academic knowledge. It is important to note that many in-person programs are on hold right now, but many wonderful virtual programs are available. I will continue to update this list as I find more brain boosting homeschool programs in NJ.

Upcoming Homeschool Events and Programs in NJ

Tenafly Nature Center

This fall, the Tenafly Nature Center is offering homeschool programs that are 100% outdoors! These classes and experiences are a perfect way to enrich your child’s learning. They are available for kids in Kindergarten – 12th grade.

• K-2nd: Nature Explorers
• 3rd-5th: Nature Ecologists
• 6th-8th: Nature Scientists
• 9th-12th: Environmental Stewards

Tenafly Nature Center also offers Home School Groups. Get together a group of children to create your own private class. Parents can choose from a variety of Homeschool Topics like animal tracks and tales, apple cider making and endangered NJ.

Essex County Environmental Center

Essex County Environmental Center in Roseland offers programs for children in grades PreK – 8th. Programs include hands-on activities and experiences in nature.

Howell Living History Farm

Homeschool parents who are looking for a wonderful program to enhance their Social Studies lessons, then you have to check out FarmHands at Howell Living History Farm. During the 3-hour program, children ages 6-12 will learn all about life on the farm by engaging in farm chores, crafts, games and seasonal activities.

*It is important to note that registration is on hold at this time.

Monclair Art Museum

This fall, Montclair Art Museum is offering virtual classes via Zoom. They are a great way to incorporate art into your homeschooling program.

Morris County Park Commission

Morris County Parks Commission is offering both hands-on and virtual homeschool programs. In-person programs will take place at Fosterfields and Historic Speedwell. The virtual programs will focus on science and nature. Registration going on now.

Newark Museum

Creative Play at Newark Museum is a perfect way to encourage learning and expand social skills. Families with kids ages 3-5 are invited to the museum to explore, learn and play. Activities are also good for kids up to 12 years old. Each Creative Play session has its own brain boosting theme.

*It is important to note that this program is on hold at this time.

Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

Located in Medford, Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge offers exciting homeschool programs for most ages. Although their in-person program are on hold right now, they are offering fun virtual experiences to enhance learning in science and language arts. Virtual experiences include story times, science experiments, animal encounters, and more.

Here is a look at the in-person programs that may be offered this year.

• Knee-High Naturalists – Children ages 3-5 will enjoy songs, crafts and outdoor adventures while gaining important academic knowledge. Each week has its own theme!
• Nature Nuts – Homeschool families with kids ages 6-12 will enjoy hands-on activities and outdoor adventures while gaining important academic knowledge.
• Eco Explorers – Homeschool students ages 9 and up can enjoy hiking, live animal encounters and experiments during this 4-week program.

Flat Rock Brook Nature Center

Flat Rock Brook Nature Center in Englewood offers homeschool programs for children ages 4-12 that include hands-on activities and experiences in nature. There are 2 classes per month with each month costing $30/members and $40/nonmembers. Each week has a new theme. Fall schedule coming soon!

Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation

Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation offers fun experiences for homeschool kids. In-person programs take place at County Arboretum, Echo Hill Park, and Teetertown Preserve. Check out their brochure for more information. Virtual learning programs are also being offered!

 

You may also enjoy: