Homeschool Programs

The 2019-2020 Homeschool Series are:

Get HAPI!

Ages 7 to 10
Thursdays, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
November 7 (Adaptations); December 5 (Nocturnal Animals and their Adaptations); January 9 (Interrelationships); February 6 (Populations); March 5 (Habitats); April 2 (Ecosystems)
The primary interpretive focus of the Science Center’s programs and exhibits is community ecology, which has four major concepts: Habitats, Adaptations, Populations, and Interrelationships (HAPI). Join us with your child to investigate these topics in depth.

Cost: $9/member child per session; $11/non-member child per session
An adult must participate with children at no additional cost. Each additional adult pays child fee.

All About Series

Ages 4 to 6
Thursdays, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
November 7 (Porcupines); December 5 (Hawks); January 9 (Skunks); February 6 (Groundhogs); March 5 (Owls); April 2 (Turtles)
Join us with your child to learn all about New Hampshire wildlife. Each session considers a different group of living things through activities, hands-on experiences, and a meeting with a live animal.

Cost: $9/member child per session; $11/non-member child per session
An adult must participate with children at no additional cost. Each additional adult pays child fee.

Homeschool programs are aligned to Next Generation Science Standards and NH College and Career Ready Science Standards. Homeschool groups qualify for school rates and custom programs.

For questions or to schedule your homeschool program contact Sarah Wall, Visitor Services Manager, at 603-968-7194 x 47 or email

Homeschool programs at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Shaun Wyndman, 08/18/18
This is a very pricey cross between a zoo and a nature trail. The science center features several exhibits relating to the animals in the area. It also has exhibits relating to conservation etc. They offer animal shows, demonstrating live animals several times a day, and feedings three days a week, so check the schedule to see if your favorite is on display. In addition to the move animal exhibits the center features several walking trails offering an opportunity to see local wildlife and plant life. Most tree species are marked for easy identification of the local foliage. There is also a ninety minute boat tour of squam lake available for an additional fee.
Lynne Kraskouskas, 09/18/18
Great educational facility. Fun and educational for all ages. Very much enjoyed the sub-canopy boardwalk peppered with stations featuring different animals and ecosystems of the surrounding area. There are educational presentations with live animals as well as an otter exhibit. A few times a week, the otters are fed a "fishsicle" and it is amusing to watch them try and get their snacks. Didn't visit gift shop or go for a cruise. That's the great thing about this place, one can come back again and again and have a different experience. Locals or regular visitors to the region can purchase a membership and come and go. There is a nice picnic area and food during the summer season. It was not busy the day we visited, but I could see it being a lot busier. Educational, interesting AND shady.
Eben Gannett, 03/27/19
This is by far one the best not so hidden gems of Central New Hampshire! While it functions similarly to a zoo the goal of the facility is to rehabilitate and care for local animals found in the white mountains of NH. The animals who stay are there for medical or other legitimate reasons that keep them from living in the wild and are given wonderful care. The staff that works there is knowledgable and kind, eager to answer any questions about the animals you may have. The path to see all the animals is fun and equivalent to many easy day hikes with spots to picnic, and a wonderful play/learning area for the young and young at heart. It is a place my family loves to visit time and time again, never getting board of the wonderful animals, new things to learn, and great day that always ensues.
Tina Smrkovski, 06/09/19
Well maintained nature preserve. All animals looked well cared for, all exhibits worked with no missing pieces. Highly recommend.
C. Heather Moody, 10/22/19
Great place to take the family for a day trip. Lots to see, beautiful area with some unique animals & very friendly staff. Good volunteer opportunities several times per year including hiking, fall clean up & more. Also have camps (day, some overnight, week long or longer) during school vacation, etc. Nice place.