Homeschool Programs
The Lutherlyn Environmental Education Program has been offering environmental education programs to homeschoolers for over 25 years, and we are excited to host another homeschool program series this season!
Families and groups can sign up via Lutherlyn's Online Registration Portal.
Most of our programs are appropriate for grades K-12, unless otherwise noted. Each session runs from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. (Some events may have an additional afternoon session from 1-3:30pm.) The cost is $10 per person for everyone attending ages 4 and over. Siblings ages 3 and under are welcome to come with their family at no extra cost and are not required to register. An adult must register along with the student or students. In the event of inclement weather, some activities may be adjusted or substituted as needed. If a minimum of 10 people are not registered for a session, it will be cancelled and registered participants will receive a full refund.
FALL SERIES
Monday, October 19th, 2026: Forest Comparison & Scavenger Hunt – Students work to collect data on soil texture, temperature, soil pH, sunlight penetration, tree types, and plant densities in a deciduous and a coniferous forest. Students compare the data to explore how forests differ, then participate in a forest scavenger hunt.
Registration Deadline: October 12
Monday, November 2nd, 2026: Dig It! – The ultimate hands-on field trip experience where students really "get their hands dirty” and delve into the exciting world of archaeology! This activity takes place on an actual, registered archaeology site! The current dig site has been the site of human activity for hundreds of years. There is evidence of Native American as well as pioneer activity. Students learn the basics of setting up an actual archaeological dig and how to carefully excavate a site. Western Pennsylvania history comes alive as students unearth artifacts, clean what they have found, and try to identify these clues to the past.
Registration Deadline: October 26
Thursday, November 12th, 2026: Geology – This activity introduces students to several different facets of geology, including land formation, geologic history, and rock formation in western PA. Students hike to a large rock outcropping and explore it as they climb to the top (weather permitting). They then discuss how the rock was formed and how it was affected by glaciers during the last Ice Age. PLEASE NOTE: this is an approximately 1-mile hike over varied (and at times steep) terrain. It is not stroller accessible.
Registration Deadline: November 5
Monday, November 23rd, 2026: Animal Tracking – Students learn the basics of identifying animal tracks using tracking keys and measuring skills. Students practice on tracking plates and then hike into the forest to use their skills. PLEASE NOTE: younger students will require adult assistance with portions of this activity where detailed measurements are required.
Registration Deadline: November 16
Additionally, most of the activities that are available in our Program Options Guide can be part of a customized homeschool field trip experience for your homeschool group. For more information, to talk to our Environmental Education Director, or to make a reservation, please contact the Lutherlyn Environmental Education Office at leep@lutherlyn.com or 724-865-9079.
