Brookgreen Gardens Homeschool Explorers Program
The Homeschool Explorers Program at Brookgreen Gardens offers children aged 6 to 10 years an exciting and educational experience. Each themed session features hands-on, standards-based lessons about nature, history, and art. Activities may include tours of exhibits, live animal presentations, S.T.E.M. challenges, and creative crafts to take home.
Program Details:
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Age Range: 6 to 10 years
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Parent Participation: Parents are required to actively participate with their children throughout the program.
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Registration: Opens at 12:01 a.m. on the Wednesday, two weeks before the program date (e.g., September 27 for the October 11 or 12 programs).
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Program Fee: $7.00 per student (Member discounts do not apply).
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Parent Admission: One parent/teacher per family attends for free.
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Age Restriction: No children under 6 years old or over 10 years old are allowed to attend.
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Capacity: Limited to 50 participants (students and parents). Pre-registration is required—no walk-ins will be permitted.
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Payment: Payment is due at the Admissions Plaza on the program day. Please bring your receipt to the registration table at the Lowcountry Center Complex.
Registration Process:
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Please submit one registration form per family online via the "Register Here" link below.
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If you are unable to attend, please notify us by emailing jcirino@brookgreen.org so that we can accommodate a family from the waiting list. Repeated no-shows without notice may result in being red flagged for future programs.
Program Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Gate opens at 9:30 a.m.)
Spring 2025 Homeschool Plan
Location: Leonard Pavilion | Time: 10:00AM - 12:30PM
Investigating Geography
January 8th & 9th
Jump into the world of Geography with our Investigating Geography program! In this hands-on experience, students will discover how to read maps and identify various landforms found across South Carolina. Our budding geographers will also explore fascinating spots at Brookgreen Gardens, tackle engaging STEAM challenges, and even create their own map using the tools and skills they’ve learned. Aligned with South Carolina Social Studies and Science Standards, this program offers a dynamic and fun way to Investigate Geography!
SC State Standards
4-ESS2-2. Analyze and interpret data from maps to describe patterns of Earth’s features.
1.G.1. Identify various types of maps, map features, and the purpose of maps.
2.G.1. Identify the geographic location of the US in relation to the rest of the world.
We like to, move it!
February 12th & 13th
We like to, move it! Join us on an exciting journey exploring all the unique ways animals move. Students will discover how some creatures soar through the skies, others burrow underground, and everything in between! Through an investigative scavenger hunt and fun, animal-themed games, students will channel their inner animal and expand their imaginations. Aligned with South Carolina Science Standards, this program is perfect for all young animal lovers!
SC State Standards
Science: K-ESS3-1. Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and or animals (including humans) and the places they live.
3-LS3-1. Analyze data to provide evidence that plants and animals have inherited traits that vary within a group of similar organisms.
4-LS1-1. Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function together in a system to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
Birding
March 12th & 13th
Birds, birds, and more birds! Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of birds, one of nature’s most exciting and diverse species. Students will explore a variety of bird species, discover how their unique traits help them thrive in different environments, and learn how birds make their homes around the globe. Young birders will also learn how to identify different birds and practice safe birding techniques. Aligned with South Carolina Science Standards, this program is perfect for budding bird enthusiasts!
SC State Standards
Science: K-ESS2-2. Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.
1-LS3-1. Make observations to support an evidence-based claim that most young are like, but not exactly like, their parents.
3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment.
Wild Weather
April 16th & 17th
The weather is wild, but important for us to understand! Dive into the world of Wild Weather as students learn about different types of weather, seasonal changes, and weather scientists. Students will also participate in a fun weather-themed science experiment and learn about severe weather safety. This program is aligned with South Carolina State Science and Social Studies Standards, perfect for young meteorologists to dip their toes into the world of weather.
SC State Standards
Science:
2-PS1-2. Analyze data obtained from tests to determine which materials have the best properties for an intended purpose.
3-ESS3-1. Make a claim about the effectiveness of a design solution that reduces the impacts of a weather related hazard.
4-ESS3-2. Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.
Planet Protectors
May 14th & 15th
In this immersive program, students will explore the vital roles of pollinators, plants, and natural resources—and discover how to protect them. They’ll learn about endangered species and even meet some critically endangered friends at the Lowcountry Zoo! Young conservationists will also discuss practical ways to help protect plants, animals, and our local ecosystem in everyday life. This engaging program aligns with South Carolina State Science Standards, making it a perfect fit for future environmental stewards.
SC State Standards
Science: K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
2-LS2-2. Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.
3-LS4-4. Make a claim about the effectiveness of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and affects organisms living there.