Homeschool Series at the REACH Museum

Hands-on science. Small groups. Guided discovery.

The Homeschool Series at the REACH Museum is a rotating program of place-based experiences created specifically for homeschool families. Designed for elementary and middle school students, each series offers immersive, hands-on learning led by museum educators in a supportive, small-group setting.

Students explore scientific concepts through inquiry, real-world connections, and guided activities using models, tools, and interactive materials—making the museum an extension of their learning environment.

Led by Museum Educators

Homeschool Series programs are developed and taught by REACH Museum educators with experience in informal science education. Sessions are designed to support age-appropriate learning goals and align with Washington State Science Learning Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), while emphasizing curiosity, exploration, and hands-on discovery.

Learn more about science standards:

Washington State Science Learning Standards:
https://www.k12.wa.us/student-success/resources-subject-area/science
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
https://www.nextgenscience.org/

How the Homeschool Series Works

Each Homeschool Series focuses on a specific science theme and is offered for a limited time. Themes rotate throughout the year, allowing students to explore different areas of science through guided, hands-on experiences at the museum.

Sessions are designed as small-group programs for specific age ranges, with activities tailored to be developmentally appropriate and engaging.

Who the Homeschool Series Is For

Elementary students (Grades 1–5)
Middle school students (Grades 6–8)
Homeschool families seeking structured, educator-led science experiences

Current & Upcoming Homeschool Series

Each Homeschool Series explores a different science theme. Details for current and upcoming sessions are listed below.

Elementary • Grades 1–5

Treasure Trails

Monday, September 21 | 3:30–5:00 PM

Young explorers will put their map-reading skills to the test during a hands-on museum adventure! Students in grades 1–5 will discover how maps help us understand and navigate the world, explore maps throughout the REACH Museum, and create maps of their own. They’ll then practice using a compass as they follow clues in search of hidden treasure.

This class encourages observation, problem-solving, spatial thinking, and collaboration while supporting relevant Washington State and national learning standards.

REACH Members: $20 per student | Nonmembers: $25 per student

Advance registration is required by Tuesday, September 15. No walk-ins.

Middle School • Grades 6–8

Navigate the Northwest

Tuesday, September 22 | 3:30–5:30 PM

How can maps help us better understand—and navigate—the Pacific Northwest? Students in grades 6–8 will examine different types of maps, interpret geographic information, and explore the natural and human features that shape our region. They’ll then put their compass skills, critical thinking, and teamwork to the test during a collaborative navigation challenge.

This hands-on class builds geographic literacy, problem-solving, and navigation skills while supporting relevant Washington State and national learning standards.