Sunday, July 29, 2012

Homeschool Days For The Southeast - 2012-2013

Update: Due to the overwhelming number of page views and pins from this post, I have decided to make it an actual page now on my blog. I have revamped the look and it will now be an ongoing list of homeschool friendly places to visit in the SE that offer homeschool days, discounts, classes etc. Be sure to update your your pins/favorites with the new page

Did you know that almost every museum, attraction and nature center offers homeschool days? And that the homeschool days often have reduced admission rates? Well to make sure you don't miss any GREAT homeschool day opportunities I will be posting information about places in Georgia and neighboring states that offer homeschool days in this post. These are listed in alphabetical order and I will be adding more as I find out about them so be sure you save this post as a favorite or add it to your Pinterest Board. The museum, attractions and nature centers are listed in red. If there is a FREE event or a coupon code I have made sure those are indicated in bold.

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Alliance Theater Homeschool Days:
 We have seen Alliance Theater productions and they are always amazing. 

Where:
Atlanta, GA

What/When:
-The Real Tweenagers of Atlanta: The Final Assembly - October 29–November 2, 2012 at 9:45 & 11:45 a.m.
-A Christmas Carol (K-12th) - November 27-29, December 4-7, 11-13, 18-19 2012 at 10:30 am
-Charlotte's Web (K-5th) - February 20-22, 26-28, March 1, 5-8 2013 at 9:45 and 11:45 am

And for children ages 18 months through 5 yrs of age there is the Theatre For The Very Young:

-The Tranquil Tortoise and the Hoppity Hare - August 31- September 22, 2012
-Waiting For Balloon - December 27, 2012 - January 19, 2013
-A Child's Garden of Verses - March 11-20, 2013 

Shows are at 9:30 am and 11:00 am. 

Fee:
$8.50 each or groups 10 or more who much pay in advance can get the tickets $6.50 each.
$10 each Theatre For The Very Young.

More Details:
http://alliancetheatre.org/Alliance/Education/Acting-Classes.aspx (see left side navigation bar for details on both education programs)

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Homeschool Days: 


Where/When:
-February 1, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Mt. Carmel Christian, Stone Mountain.
-February 5, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Atlanta Symphony Hall 
-February 13, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Porter Sanford III, Performing Arts Center
-March 5, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Roswell United Methodist Church
-April 16, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Cobb Civic Center, Marietta 
-April 17, 2013 9:45am & 11:15am (Performance lasts 45-50mins) Duluth First Baptist Church 

Fee:
$7 per person.

What:
Symphony Street for kids PreK-2nd grade. 
Live instrumental music is a wonder to discover. Young learners participate in an exciting field trip program that not only introduces them to the world of music and instruments, but also that touches on how music and sound are produced. Concerts are held in various locations throughout the community to bring the power of live instrumental music into our local neighborhoods. Additional programs are available for 3rd grade and above check the website for further details.

More Details:
http://www.atlantasymphony.org/EducationAndCommunity/FieldTrips.aspx

Atlanta History Center Homeschool Days: We went to the open house last year and had a blast. I liked the History Center so much that I actually ended up purchasing a membership this year when they offered their 1/2 special. You can read about our 1st visit to the Atlanta History Center here.

Where:
Atlanta, GA

When:
August 6, 2012 10:00am - 5:30pm - FREE Homeschool Day
Additional homeschool days are offered throughout the year see below.

Fee:
-Homeschool Day in August is FREE!!!!!
-Homeschool Days throughout the year are $8.50 for nonmembers; $6.50 for children of members; and free for adult members. Discounted rates are available for groups with 10 or more children.

What:
Homeschool open house is FREE and will allow you to visit all the exhibits, gardens and take part in the tours and demonstrations.

Additional homeschool days are offered throughout the year:

-Colony to Constitution September 4, 2012 - 1:00-4:00 PM
-Strange History: Fact or Fiction? October 10, 2012 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-Thanksgiving Traditions November 8, 2012 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-Holidays in History: Christmas at War December 7, 2012 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-Empires January 7, 2013 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-Shaping America February 5, 2013 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-The Cherokee March 6, 2013 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-Living off the Land  April 11, 2013 - 1:00—4:00 PM
-You Decide! May 10, 2013 - 1:00—4:00 PM

More Details:
For information or to make group reservations, please call 404-814-4018, email Homeschool @atlantahistorycenter.com, or visit 
www.AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/homeschool.

Biltmore Homeschool Day: This sounds amazing. This is one company I am trying to convince needs to do a Spring program. So show your support and hopefully they will add another event. 

Where:
Asheville, NC

When:
September 20 & 21, 2012

Fee:
$22 per person 5 yrs and older. Make your reservation before July 31st and SAVE $2 per ticket.

What:
Learn about train and steam ship travel 100 yrs ago. Play fun games, make a fancy folding fan, collect pieces for a scrapbook page and join an old fashioned sing along. But wait there's more learn about photography and create an awesome project. Hear stories about costume parties and make your own mask. And your admission also includes self guided visit in Biltmore House and Gardens.

More Details:

Braves Homeschool Night at Turner Field: What a great field trip especially for baseball lovers.

Where:
Turner Field Atlanta GA

When:
August 14, 2012 7:10pm

Fee:
Outfield $19, Upper Box $9 and parking $10

What:
Atlanta Braves vs. San Diego Padres

More Details:
Contact natalie.galvin@braves.com for tickets phone 404-614-1401.

Cagles Dairy: coming soon read our review over at Expedition Mom.

Columbus GA Homeschool Day: Columbus GA is doing something amazing next year around February 2013. They are trying to arrange a massive homeschool week where many local attractions like Hills & Dales, Global Village and Discovery Center, RiverCenter ArtsReach, Oxbow Meadows, Columbus Museum, National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center etc will be offering special homeschool programs.

Where:
Columbus, GA

When:
Sometime around February 2013 - I will update this information when it is sent to me.

Fee:
Will vary on attractions. 

What:
Massive homeschool week. Hotels will even be offering specials on rooms.

More Details:
http://visitcolumbusga.com/ also email Sid Kaminsky skaminsky@visitcolumbusga.com and request to be added to the mailing list for updates.

CNN Homeschool Day:

Where:
Atlanta, GA

When:
January 21, 2013 MLK Day

Fee:
Adult $13, Student $12, Child $10 there are also specials rates for groups over 20.

What:
Take a tour of the amazing CNN building and learn all about news and broadcasting. Behind the scenes tours are 55 minutes.

More Details:

www.cnn.com/tour you can also call 404-827-2300 or email atltour@cnn.com

GA Aquarium Homeschool Classes: We did the class earlier this year and it was a great way to experience the Aquarium at a very reduced rate. I wasn't 100% satisfied with the program but the kids really enjoyed seeing all the amazing sea creatures. You can view out pictures and some more details here.

Where:
Atlanta, GA

When:
Monthly new 2012 classes are not posted yet I will update this page when they are. Programs start at 1:30 pm but you may enter the aquarium at 11 am to walk around the aquarium.

Fee:
Cost is $12 per student plus $4 if you wish to view the Dolphin Tales Show. You must provide proof that you homeschool  (letter of intent). Tickets can be picked up at Will Call. No children under 4 are allowed on the program. And 1 adult per 2 children may enter for FREE. Reservations must be made 2 wks prior to the class you wish to attend.

What:
Georgia Aquarium offers educational programming to home school students through our instructor-led programs at 1:45 pm on select dates. These 45 minute Instructor-Led programs provide a focused learning opportunity where students can expand their understanding of aquatic ecosystems. All programs are aligned to the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) and include a downloadable Teacher guide with pre and post activities. All Instructor-Led programs include admission to the Aquarium and Deepo 4D Show.                               

More Details:

To make a reservation, call 404.581.4121, http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/education/home-school.aspx 

Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Days: Dreaming of doing this especially in December! How much fun would it be to go to a water park in the middle of December?

Where:
Charlotte/Concord, NC

When:
September 23-28 and December 9-14, 2012

Fee:
$139 per night, use promo code 1209Home (September) and 1212Home (December)

What:
Enjoy a relaxing getaway at the Wolf Lodge. There are awesome cabins and an awesome indoor water park. To add an educational component to your trip take a daily Wolf Walk where you will experience a hands on look at nature and the creatures that inhabit the Northwoods. 

High Museum Homeschool Days: I have never done a homeschool day but I can tell you the High is fabulous. Every time we go there we always have so much fun and learn lots of great things about art. Read our review over at Expedition Mom.

Where:
Atlanta, GA

When/What:

October 26, 2012 Fast Forward: Modern Movements 1913-2013
November 16, 2012 Hard Truths: The Art of Thornton Dial
January 11, 2013 Sarah Sze from Fast Forward: Modern Moments 1913-2013
February 23, 2013 Frida Kahol from Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics, & Painting
March 22, 2013 Diego Rivera from Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics, & Painting
April 26, 2013 Gogo: Nature Transformed

Fee:
Admission $16.50 for adults, $7 for children (discounted from reg. admission) and members get in FREE

More Details:
www.high.org/homeschool

Historic Westville Homeschool Day: Georgia's 1850s Living History Museum. Never been here but really want to check it out. The drive is a little far which is one reason we have not been able to attend.

Where:
Lumpkin, GA

When:
Friday, September 14, 2012 - 10:00am - 5:00pm
Additional programs are offered throughout the year check the website for more details (group rates are often available).

Fee:
Adults and kids (K-112) $10
Pre-K FREE
Mention you saw the Buy One Children's Admission Get One Free flyer to save money!

What:
Travel back in time to the 1850's. Enjoy hands on activities like sewing pin cushions, woodworking, candles and soap making, blacksmithing, paper marbling, open harth cooking, spinning, weaving, rope making, and basket making.

More Details:

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****  Contact info@westville.org or call 888-733-1850 www.westville.org

Museum of History & Holocaust Homeschool Day:
I have never visited this museum but will definitely be adding it to our list this year of things to do.

Where:
Kennesaw, GA

When:
September, 18th - 9:30am - 12:30pm

Fee:
FREE, FREE, FREE all the time not just on homeschool days.

What:
There will be a special program for homeschool students and their families on World War II and the Holocaust. There will be behind the scenes tours, hands on activities, guest speaker and films.

More Details:
For more information, or to RSVP, call 678-797-2082 or email rharker@kennesaw.edu www.kennesaw.edu/historymuseum 

Nature Centers: Many of the nature centers in Georgia offer homeschool days. For ease I will put all the nature centers and information under this heading. 

-Autrey Mill: One of our favorite nature centers. Every time we visit we get to explore something new.  We love the creek and wildflower trials. It is completely FREE to visit the animals in the nature center and walk the trails. There are great historical buildings to learn more about as well.

Where: 

Johns Creek, GA

When:
Thursdays - September 6th, October 11th, November 8th, December 6th - 11:00am - 1:30pm
For ages 6-12, Parents are not required to attend (but are welcome to stay and enjoy the preserve).

Fee:
$10 for members, $12 for non-members 

What:
Home school at Autrey Mill is a combination program featuring a one hour nature hike / lesson and a one hour heritage tour / activity. A 30 minute lunch break is provided between the classes. Each month will focus on a different topic.

More Details: 
***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****  http://www.autreymill.org/homeschoolscience.htm

-Chattahoochee Nature Center: Amazing trails and hands on nature center. There is admission for the nature center and trails.

Where: 
Roswell, GA

When:
Mondays - September 10th, October 8th, November 12th - 12:30pm - 3pm

Fee:
Adults $8, Children 3-12  $5, Under 2 FREE
Members FREE

What:
Exciting science and nature programs planned just for homeschooling students. A perfect addition to your ecology, biology and geology curriculum, Homeschool Mondays are a great way to get hands-on science and nature lessons, receive help on projects and research and network with other homeschooling families.

More Details: 
http://www.chattnaturecenter.org/education/homeschool-programs/

-Cochran Mill Nature Center: 

Where: 
Palmetto, GA

When:
2012 - August 20th, September 17th, October 15th, November 12th, December 10th 
2013- January 21st, February 18th, March 18th, April 15th, May 20th 

Fee:
$6 per child (1st-12th grades) and $3 per adult (over 18). Any class materials will be provided for students only. 
CMNC members are $3 per participant child and adults
 

What:
CMNC hosts Home School Days each month, a group program designed for hands-on learning about nature.  This offers the opportunity for your family to learn together in a natural setting guided by an instructor.  New topics are introduced each month and cover a variety of exciting subjects. Program duration is 60-90 minutes and is indicated on the events calendar. 

More Details:
***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****   http://www.cochranmillnaturecenter.org/homeschooldays.html 

-Dunwoody Nature Center:

Where: 
Dunwoody, GA

When:
Tuesdays 11am - 12:30pm
1st-2nd - 2nd Tuesday
3rd-5th - 3rd Tuesday
6th-7th - 4th Tuesday

Fee:
$10 for members, $15 for non-members

What:
Homeschool science classes will explore science and nature through age-appropriate games, crafts, stories, and other seasonal experiments and activities. 

More Details:
***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****   
http://www.dunwoodynature.org/Homeschool-Classes

-Elachee Nature Center: We really enjoy this nature center there is lots to see and do. There is an admission for the nature center but the trails are FREE to hike. Read our review over at Expedition Mom

Where: 
Gainesville, GA

When:
Beginning August 1st - offered 1st Wednesday afternoon of each month from 1:30 - 3:30pm.

Fee:
The cost for the entire 10 program series is $75 per student and $35 per participating parent. Families may also register on a semester basis at a rate of $50 per student and $25 per parent. This series is open to children in grades Pre-K through 5th grade. 

What:
Hands on educational program for homeschoolers.

More Details:
***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****   
http://www.elachee.org/programs/school%20programs/homeschool.html

-Gwinnett Heritage Center: This is a great place. There is are great trails, a nice nature center facililty and Treetop Quest. Read our Treetop Quest review over at Expedition Mom

Where: 
Gwinnett, GA

When:

Fee:

What:

More Details: 
coming soon their website has been down

-Sawnee Preserve: To see a breathtaking view hike to the top of the mountain. It is completely FREE to visit the small nature center and walk the trails.

Where: 
Cumming, GA

When:

Fee:

What:

More Details:
coming soon their website has not been updated for the new school year

Renaissance Festival: We went to the student day in 2012 and had a great time. The kids learned all sorts of great things. We learned about the Renaissance Era, glassblowing, weaving, falconry and more. You can view pictures and some more details here
Where: Fairburn, GA

When:
April 30, 2013 9:30am - 2:30pm

Fee:
$9.50 students 

$10 adults
What:

During student day there will be special workshops, demonstrations and classes. These programs will help enhance your child's learning in art, theater, history, science, language and more.

More Details:
 
http://www.garenfest.com/Information-5 - Make sure you fill out the reservation form to receive email updates as well as your invoice when the time comes. 

Ripley's Aquarium Homeschool Days: I really hope to make it to this aquarium this year. I have heard great things about the aquarium.

Where:
Gatlinburg, TN

When/What:
Offers homeschoolers discounts all year long. Just show proof your a homeschool family like a declaration of intent, attendance, etc. In addition they offer special programs each month.

-September 19, 2012 - Blubber, Baleen and Blowholes
-October 17, 2012 - World Animal Day
-November 14, 2012 – Fishin’ for Math
-December 19, 2012 – Meet and Greet a SCUBA Diver!
-January 16, 2013 – Why is the Sky Blue?
-February 20, 2013 – Penguin Awareness
-March 20, 2013 - Meteorology
-April 17, 2013 – Earth Day
-May 15, 2013 – One Name, Many Types – Cells!

Grades K-3:
 1:30 pm Grades 4-8: 2:30 pm

Fee:
Admission $7 for adults, $9 for K-8th, $4.99 PreK, Under 2 FREE.

More Details:

Stone Mountain Homeschool Day: Another one I have never been to but so want to do. Years ago we went to Stone Mountain to go camping Gwyn was only about 1 1/2. We had so much fun and I would love to explore all they have to offer for educational experiences.

Where:
Stone Mountain, GA

When:
September 28th 10:30am - 5:00pm

Fee:
$17 a person or FREE with Mountain Membership.

What:
Homeschool students are invited to embark on a full day of education and adventure at Georgia’s #1 attraction. Includes access to exciting attractions including the all-new Geyser TowersSkyHikeSummit SkyrideDiscovering Stone Mountain MuseumPlantation & FarmyardYOGI BEAR 4-D AdventureScenic RailroadMini-Golf & The Great BarnRide the Ducks can be added to the Adventure Pass for only $9.

More Details:


Southern Railway Museum:

Where:
Duluth, GA

When:
Programs are offered at anytime just contact the museum 2 weeks prior to the time you wish to have a guided tour. 

Fee:
$7 per person

What:
There are a couple tour programs available, guided and unguided. All programs include a hands-on experience with artifacts. Programs that are held at the museum generally include a train ride and program-specific tour. 

The Southern Museum: We visited the museum earlier this year and had a great time. I even learned lots about the Civil War. The General and a medal of honor that was just donated this year are the two most famous exhibits at the museum. You can view out pictures and some more details here.

Where:
Kennesaw, GA

When:
September 18, 2012

Fee:
$5 per person reservations required 1 week in advance.

What:
Homeschool students of all ages can now explore the Southern Museum’s exhibits for a special rate. On any given month, attendees may participate in guide tours through the galleries, hands-on activities and take-home craft projects.  All parent educators will receive a take-home packet to enhance the day’s lesson.

More Details:
http://www.southernmuseum.org/school-programs/homeschool/

Wild Adventures Homeschool Days:
We had a blast at Wild Adventures I highly recommend attending their homeschool days or just taking a family vacation there. Here is our review.

Where:
Valdosta, GA

When:
September 8, 2012 (they will offer another one in the Summer as well).

Fee:
$23 per person for 3 parks. 

What:
Have some fun at the amazing amusement and water park and when your done learn about all of your favorite animals as you uncover hundreds of creatures from around the world as you wander through the zoo. Sit back and enjoy Do You Zoo?, an educational and entertaining animal game show.  Then travel half-way around the world on our Safari Train ride - an adventure that brings you face to face with rare Indian rhinos, giraffes, elephants, zebras, wildebeests and more!  The discoveries are endless at Wild Adventures. 

More Details:

Zoo Atlanta Homeschool Classes: Last Fall Gwyn participated in the Homeschool Academy class and it was absolutely amazing. It is totally worth paying for an entire semester visit the website for more details about the class topics. You can read more about Gwyns 1st Zoo Academy class experience here and then do a search on my blog for zoo academy class to read about her others.

Where:
Atlanta, GA

When:
Homeschool Field Trip Day is offered the first Tuesday of every month.
Homeschool Academy is also offered  monthly on Wednesdays. This is a 2 hr class and runs September through May.

Fee:
Homeschool Field Trips: $9 per person.
Homeschool Academy: $16 for members and $20 for non members. Register for a semester and get $10 off your registration fee.

What:
Immerse your children in an unforgettable educational adventure packed with hand on learning, outdoor exploration, tours and over 1,500 animals from around the world.

More Details:

http://www.zooatlanta.org/home/book_a_program/schools_and_groups/homeschoolers


2 comments:

Jennie said...

Awesome list! We're in central Georgia, and I'm so glad to have this resource. Thank you, thank you!

Kathy Balman said...

Jennie your welcome I am hoping to add more soon to the list so keep checking back.

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