Homeschool Days (Ages 12-15) at 4Roots Farm

The 4Roots Homeschool Days program brings learning to life through hands-on experiences in the garden and beyond. Through seasonal, interactive activities, students explore agriculture and the environment in a way that encourages curiosity, creativity, and real-world connection.

Designed for a range of ages, our program blends playful discovery with meaningful learning as students dive deeper into agriculture and related sciences. Each experience is designed to build practical skills while fostering a greater understanding of sustainability, engineering, and the natural world.

Session Structure

9:45 - 10 AM | Check-in

10 AM | Program Start

10:30 AM | Optional snack break (please bring from home)

11:30 AM | Program End

11:30-12:00 PM | Optional lunch and self-guided time on the farm OR Optional guided tour available by advance registration prior to arrival

Program Details

• One ticket ($20) includes admission for 1 child
• Limited to 25 children per session for a personal, hands-on experience
  *A minimum of 10 participants is required for this program. If minimum enrollment is not reached, 4Roots reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the session. Registered families will be notified in advance and may choose to transfer their registration or receive a full refund.
• Held on the 4Roots Farm Campus

Spots are limited, register today!

Monthly Themes

November | Our Agrarian Roots
Step back in time and explore the fields, forests and farms that helped shape the Sunshine State! Learn how Indigenous peoples of Florida lived closely with the land: hunting, gathering, and stewarding natural resources. Learners will trace the beginnings of agriculture in Florida, examining how early farming practices adapted to sandy soils, wetlands, and subtropical climates. Delve into early agricultural engineering as you learn how the land and the people who worked it cultivated the Florida we know today.

Session activities:
🌿Hunt and gather different species of plants around the farm  
🐚Compare Myakka, the official state soil of Florida, to different soil types and explore common soil amendments and their uses
💧Discuss the importance of wetlands and learn how they act as a natural filter
🪷Examine different Florida native hydrophytes and the adaptations that help them thrive in our waterways 

February | TBD

May | TBD

FAQ

Can my child attend a session outside of their age group?

Yes! Children may register for a session that is designed for students up to one year younger than their current age group. This helps ensure activities remain developmentally appropriate while still allowing some flexibility for families.

Can I have lunch on the farm?

Yes! Families are welcome to stay for up to 30 minutes after the program to enjoy a picnic lunch on the farm. Please note that there are currently no food or snack items available for purchase on-site, so we recommend bringing your own lunch and refreshments.

What should I bring with me?

Participants should wear comfortable clothing appropriate for outdoor activities and closed-toe shoes. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle, a snack if desired, and your signed mandatory program waiver.

What is the latest I can arrive?

Participants should arrive no later than 10 minutes after the program start time. Many of our activities build upon introductions, safety instructions, and group participation at the beginning of the session, so arriving on time helps ensure your child has the best possible experience and allows programming to run smoothly for all participants.

Can I stay with my child during the program?

Yes! Adults are welcome to stay in our complimentary waiting room to work, relax, or enjoy the farm while their child participates in programming. To help create the best learning environment possible, programs are designed for children to participate independently from adults. This encourages confidence, social interaction, hands-on exploration, and stronger engagement with educators and peers.

Can I drop off my child for the program?

Yes, students aged 12 and up may be dropped off for the program. Participants must be picked up promptly at the end of the program (11:30 AM).
Parents/guardians are required to complete an authorized pick-up form listing all approved adults permitted to collect their child. All authorized adults must present a valid photo ID at pick-up in order to release the participant.

What if it rains?

If the forecast is calling for a significant chance of rain or thunderstorms on your scheduled date, the program may need to be rescheduled. We closely monitor weather conditions and will stay in communication with you in the days leading up to your visit if there is any concern. Our goal is always to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

You can reach a member of our education team at Programs@4rootsfarm.org