Description
Growing H.E.A.R.T at Home
Growing H.E.A.R.T. at Home: Connecting Families to Nature, Discovery, and Stewardship is a hands-on environmental education program designed specifically for homeschool families and co-op groups. Youth will investigate the natural world through observation, exploration, and problem-solving while building a stronger understanding of environmental stewardship and their role in caring for natural resources.
Throughout the year, families will explore four exciting environmental topics:
🌱Soil Health
🦋Ecosystems & Wildlife
💧Watersheds & Water Quality
🌎Natural Resources & Environmental Sustainability
Each themed learning kit provides everything needed to support engaging, at-home learning, including:
- Easy-to-follow lessons and background information
- Key vocabulary and literacy connections (some kits will include books)
- Hands-on science activities and experiments
- Discussion questions to encourage critical thinking
- Materials for the lesson and step-by-step instructions
- Optional extensions for deeper exploration
To help families get started, Henrico 4-H will host a kick-off workshop where parents and co-op leaders will receive guidance on using the kits and creating meaningful learning experiences at home or in group settings.
The adventure continues with four field trips, giving families opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, explore local natural areas, and learn alongside other homeschool families.
Whether you're a new homeschooler or part of an established co-op, Growing H.E.A.R.T. at Home offers a fun, flexible, and enriching way to connect with nature, strengthen science learning, and create lasting family memories. Join us as we explore, discover, and grow together!
Field trip locations will vary. Kit pick-up will be available at field trip locations or at the Henrico Extension Office (6800 Staples Mill Rd, Henrico, VA 23228)
4-H Online Enrollment:
After submitting payment, you’ll receive an email with instructions for enrolling in 4-H Online. Enrollment in 4-H Online is required for your youth to participate. Families will be sent specific details with how to register in 4-H Online.
Note: If participating as a co-op, you will receive one kit. You will be responsible for purchasing additional supplies/materials needed. Co-ops can participate in field trips, but each youth must be registered in 4-H Online. One kit will serve a small family.
Refund Policy:
To receive a refund, a request must be sent in writing to Carter Humphries, ccd296@vt.edu by August 14, 2026. A $10 processing fee will apply. Refunds will not be processed after August 14. Refunds take up to 6 weeks to receive.
ADA Accommodations:
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Henrico Extension Office at 804.501.5160* during business hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to discuss accommodations 5 days prior to the event. *TDD number is (800) 828-1120.