PVAS Homeschool Adventures programs are designed to introduce homeschool students to specific nature-based themes with the goal of helping students better understand the natural world and their connection to it.
Programs for Ages 5-10
Programs are held at our Cool Spring Preserve twice a month (usually on Tuesdays) from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM and are $10/child/session.
To accommodate families with siblings, different sessions for 5-7 year olds and 8-10 year olds will be offered at the same time.
Programs include time outside for nature exploration, so wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable for hiking and suitable for the weather.
Registration Information
- Pre-registration for each program is required.
- Registration for each program and child is done individually
- A minimum of six participants is needed to conduct the program. The instructor will cancel the program if the minimum is not reached.
Program Policies
We know that many parents often need to bring their younger children to the program. While younger siblings will not be allowed to participate in any program activities, we have a “Kid Corner” in our nature center that parents and young children can enjoy during the program. Parents must supervise any children not participating in the program at all times.
Parents are welcome to stay for the duration of the program, but are not required to do so. However, if your child is disruptive or distressed during your absence, you may be asked to stay for future sessions.
Parents must register their child for the appropriate age group. If you feel that your child would be better suited to an older group, please understand an assessment of your child’s capabilities must be made by an instructor before a switch is possible. There is no guarantee that your request will be accommodated, as we need to ensure that the switch does not impact the experience for other students.
Inclement Weather
If inclement weather is in the forecast and the instructor decides to cancel or reschedule a program, you will be notified by e-mail either the day before the program or by 8:30 am on the day of the program.
Cancelations
Fees are refundable if the program is cancelled by instructor or cancelled by parent more than one week in advance. If you need to cancel for a program session, please notify the lead instructor, Amy Moore (amy@potomacaudubon.org) , as soon as possible.
January 2019
Homeschool Adventures: Who’s Been Here?
What signs do animals leave behind that can give us clues to who is living on the preserve.
Find out more »February 2019
Homeschool Adventures: Beneath Your Feet!
We’ll investigate the creatures that live underground and what adaptations allow them to do so.
Find out more »March 2019
Homeschool Adventures: Animal Defenses
Through games and hands on activities, we’ll explore the different adaptations animals use to defend themselves.
Find out more »Homeschool Adventures: Let’s Hear it for Herps!
From slithering snakes to slimy salamanders, kids will learn about herpetology, the study of reptiles and amphibians.
Find out more »Homeschool Adventures: Nature’s Clean Up Crew
In this program we’ll learn about the importance of scavengers and the special adaptations that allow them to clean up our planet.
Find out more »April 2019
Homeschool Adventures: Bird is the Word
In this program we’ll learn about what makes birds unique, how to identify birds, and how to attract them to your yard.
Find out more »May 2019
Homeschool Adventures: Yankauer Nature Preserve Hike
Join us at our Yankauer Nature Preserve for a nature hike!
Find out more »Homeschool Adventures: What’s Buggin’ You?
In this program we'll learn what makes an insect an insect, and what creepy crawlies don't quite make the cut.
Find out more »Homeschool Adventures: The Buzz on Bees
We’ll discover the role of bees, flies, butterflies and bats as pollinators!
Find out more »Programs By Request
Want to schedule a homeschool program for your group? We offer 2-hour programs by request for groups of 6 or more homeschoolers. Some programs can be held at our other Preserves upon request. You can choose one of the following programs:
| Skulls and Bones | Ages 5 & up | $10/child |
| Animal Signs | Ages 5 & up | $10/child |
| Decomposition Detectives | Ages 5 & up | $10/child |
| Birding Basics | Ages 8 & up | $10/child |
| Invasive Plants | Ages 8 & up | $10/child |
| Watershed Program (2 sessions) | Ages 8 & up | $20/child |
If you would like to schedule a program, e-mail Amy Moore at amy@potomacaudubon.org