Homeschool Hershey Park offers a unique blend of education and entertainment for homeschooling families. With specialized programs at Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story, students can engage in hands-on learning experiences ranging from botany to chocolate-making. These programs cater to various age groups and incorporate subjects like science, history, and economics, making Hershey Park an ideal destination for homeschool field trips.
What Programs Does Hershey Gardens Offer for Homeschoolers?
Hershey Gardens provides several year-round programs tailored for homeschool students:
- Green Thumbs:
- For Preschool to Grade 3
- Students cultivate plants and explore the Butterfly Atrium
- Duration: 1 hour
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Cost: $11 per student
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Amazing Butterflies:
- For Preschool to Grade 3
- Includes Butterfly Atrium tour and educational activities
- Duration: 1 hour
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Cost: $11 per student
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Tree Walk Adventure:
- For Grades 4 to 12
- Available mid-September to mid-October
- Guided walk to identify native trees
- Duration: 1 hour
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Cost: $11 per student
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Guided Garden Tour:
- For Middle and High School
- Available mid-April through November
- Professionally guided tour of Hershey Gardens
- Duration: 1 hour
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Cost: $11 per student
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Self-Guided Tour:
- For all grades
- Available mid-April through November
- Includes chaperone-led Garden Quest
- Cost: $11 per student
What Educational Experiences Does The Hershey Story Provide?
The Hershey Story museum offers interactive programs for homeschoolers:
- Museum EduQuest:
- For Preschool to Grade 12
- Curriculum-themed hunt through museum exhibits
- Duration: 45 minutes
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Cost: $11 per student
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Chocolate Lab Classes:
- Various classes for different age groups:
- Assembly Line Adventure (younger students)
- Temper, Temper (high school students)
- Choconomics (Grades 7-12)
- Duration: 45 minutes to 2 hours
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Cost: $11 to $20 depending on class and combination
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Early Childhood Programs:
- For ages 3-5
- Introduction to museum visits and educational resources
- Cost: $8 per student per program or $13 for both programs
How Can Homeschoolers Plan Their Visit to Hershey Park?
Planning a homeschool visit to Hershey Park involves several considerations:
- Scheduling:
- Programs available Monday through Friday
- First-come, first-served basis
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Earlier start times available at Hershey Gardens
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Group Size:
- Minimum of 15 students for most programs
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Private programs available for groups of 15 or more at The Hershey Story
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Reservations:
- Required for all programs
- Use Field Trip Reservation Form for Hershey Gardens
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Contact Elizabeth Lindsay for The Hershey Story reservations
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Costs:
- Hershey Gardens: $11 per student, 1 free adult per 5 students
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The Hershey Story: Varies by program, starting at $11 per student
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Transportation:
- Groups must arrange their own transportation
What Unique Learning Experiences Are Available for Homeschoolers?
Hershey Park offers special events and programs for homeschoolers:
- Fall Homeschool Day at Hershey Gardens:
- Date: October 1
- Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Focus: Local biodiversity
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Registration deadline: September 29
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Food of the Gods: Chocolate in Mesoamerica at The Hershey Story:
- Every Wednesday in October
- Times: 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
- Topic: Origins of chocolate and its role in ancient cultures
- Cost: $17 for ages 3 and over, ages 2 and under free
What Are the Benefits of Homeschool Programs at Hershey Park?
Homeschool programs at Hershey Park offer numerous advantages:
- Hands-on Learning:
- Interactive experiences in botany, entomology, and chocolate-making
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Practical application of science, history, and economics concepts
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Curriculum Integration:
- Programs designed to complement homeschool curricula
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Covers various subjects and grade levels
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Socialization Opportunities:
- Group activities promote interaction with other homeschool students
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Collaborative learning experiences
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Flexible Scheduling:
- Programs available throughout the year
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Options for different age groups and interests
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Cost-Effective Field Trips:
- Group rates and discounts available
- Free adult admission with student groups
By offering these diverse educational programs, Homeschool Hershey Park provides a unique and enriching experience for homeschooling families, combining learning with the fun and excitement of a world-renowned attraction.