Elevate Your Homeschool Journey with Hands-On Discovery
Ready to turn "school time" into an adventure? Give your curriculum a dynamic boost with our Homeschool Adventures program! Each month, we dive into a new, fascinating theme—from the precision of engineering to the messy fun of chemistry, physics, and art.
Set within the inspiring, interactive walls of the Gilbert House, our program fosters the independent learning and curiosity your child needs to thrive in a supportive group setting. It’s more than just a class; it’s a place where "sneaky education" turns big ideas into tangible projects and new friendships.
Tailored to Your Schedule: We offer the ultimate flexibility with separate monthly registrations, letting you hand-select the topics that perfectly complement your journey at home.
Meet Your Incredible Educators
Our "Sneaky Learning" adventures are led by a team of passionate experts dedicated to fueling your child's imagination.
Julia Golden, Lead Teacher
Your Guide to Sneaky Learning Adventures Julia is a master at igniting curiosity! With a background in Math Education and years of experience creating captivating learning environments, she knows exactly how to spark young minds. While she has extensive experience in traditional classroom settings, her heart truly belongs to the high-energy, hands-on atmosphere of summer camps.
Her Philosophy: Julia believes learning should feel like play. She expertly blends science, art, and engineering to help students develop critical thinking and resilience—all while they’re busy having a blast.
The Goal: As the voice behind our "Sneaky Education" philosophy, Julia’s mission is to turn every class into a journey that children eagerly anticipate.
Didi Johnson, Art & Innovation Specialist
Sparking Imagination through Arts Integration Didi brings over 30 years of experience in art education and a specialty in arts integration to our community. As a certified art teacher with an MA in Creative Arts Therapy, she is passionate about using play and mixed-media to uplift the creative spirit in every student.
Her Background: Originally from New York, Didi moved to Oregon in 2019 and instantly fell in love with the state's natural beauty. In her free time, you’ll find her hiking with her dog Maizie, exploring the Coast, practicing yoga, or gardening.
Her Passion: Didi loves incorporating themes of nature and natural materials into her work. She believes Gilbert House is the perfect setting to share her love of lifelong learning and hands-on discovery.
Program Highlights:
Monthly themed adventures: Explore a variety of STEM and arts topics.
Hands-on learning: Engage in creative projects and experiments.
Independent exploration: Foster problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Flexible registration: Choose the topics that best suit your child’s interests.
Age Groups & Schedule:
Ages 8-11:
Wednesday or Thursday: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Ages 5-7:
Wednesday or Thursday: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Pricing:
Members: $90/month (includes 4 classes)
Non-members: $100/month (includes 4 classes)
Registration:
Registration closes one week before the start of each month’s classes.
Click the registration links below for the corresponding class.
OCTOBER - Mission to Mars
October 8, 15, 22, 29 OR 9, 16, 23, 30
Learn about the solar system and space travel during Mission to Mars. Through videos, discussions, and hands-on engineering projects, we will explore challenges presented in space exploration. You can look forward to designing and launching stomp rockets, creating a model space colony, and more.
NOVEMBER - Ceramics and Chalk Pastels
November 5, 12, 19, Dec. 3 or 5, 13, 20, Dec. 4
NOTE: There is no class the week of Thanksgiving.
This month features two big projects - One using ceramics and one using chalk pastels. Build and glaze a colorful ceramic aquarium keepsake. On the days we’re not working on our ceramic project, learn the fun and messy medium of chalk pastels.
JANUARY - Storybook STEAM
January 7, 14, 21, 28 or 8, 15, 22, 29
Each class this week will begin with a storybook read-aloud followed by a STEAM project based on the book! Create a sushi-themed game, turn a Sphero robot into a tug boat, and more.
FEBRUARY - Crafters
February 5, 12, 19, 26 or 6, 13, 20, 27
Let’s get creative and make some unique crafts! Design and build a moving toy called a Cranky Contraption. Make an LED sign for your bedroom wall. You won’t want to miss out on this fun and crafty month.
MARCH - Math Snacks
March 5, 12, 19, 26 or 6, 13, 20, 27
We know not everyone loves math, but we’re pretty sure everyone loves snacks! You’ll be working so hard on your snack projects - like Gingerbread Houses and Popcorn Scoopers - that you’ll hardly even notice the probability, geometry, measuring, and symmetry principles you learned along the way!
Homeschool Adventures is designed to be parent-free, leading kids into greater independence and confidence. If your child has a medical or special need that requires an adult's attendance, please contact Julia at programs@acgilbert.org to discuss an accommodation. Gilbert House Children’s Museum reserves the right to request 1:1 supervision for participants.