The Benefits of Homestead Science in Your Homeschool

February 19, 2025

Kody Hanner

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The Benefits of Homestead Science in Your Homeschool

For years, I’ve grown increasingly concerned as traditional education systems move further away from teaching practical skills essential for navigating life. If society were to falter, many would struggle to sustain themselves. The benefits of homestead science; understanding where our food comes from, reconnecting with the land, and taking pride in producing something with our own hands—are more important than ever. Yet, these skills are often overlooked, leaving us disconnected from the very things that sustain us.

Honestly, that is a simple answer. Society was marketed convenience, and they bought it in droves. Quickly forgetting or simply walking away from anything that requires breaking a sweat just to provide for your own needs.

As a lifelong farmer and homesteader, I believe that a strong foundation in Homestead Science is not just valuable for those who aspire for complete self-sufficiency; it’s a crucial component of a well-rounded education for every child. Without a solid foundation in these skills, we are bound to stray further from the ability to provide for ourselves.

What is Homestead Science?

Homestead Science goes beyond the typical “agriculture class.” It’s a holistic approach to learning that encompasses:

Animal husbandry: Raising and caring for livestock, from chickens and goats to bees and rabbits.
Sustainable gardening: Understanding soil health, planting, cultivating, and harvesting a variety of crops.
Food preservation: Learning to can, jar, ferment, and dehydrate food to ensure year-round access to nutritious meals.
Resource management: Understanding water conservation, composting, and utilizing renewable energy sources.
Applied science: Integrating concepts of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics into real-world projects.

Why is Homestead Science So Important?

Fostering Ownership and Responsibility: Caring for animals and tending a garden instills a sense of responsibility and ownership in children. They learn the value of hard work, patience, and the consequences of their actions.
Developing Life Skills: Homestead Science equips children with invaluable life skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. They learn to cook, budget, problem-solve, and make informed decisions.
Building a Solid Base of Applied Science: Forget rote memorization! Homestead Science provides a hands-on, experiential learning environment where children can observe, experiment, and apply scientific principles to real-world situations.
Understanding Where Their Food Comes From: In today’s increasingly disconnected world, it’s crucial for children to understand the origins of their food. Homestead Science fosters a deeper appreciation for the land, the farmers who work it, and the effort that goes into producing a healthy meal.
Cultivating a Connection to Nature: Spending time outdoors, working with the earth, and observing the natural world fosters a deep connection to nature and a sense of environmental stewardship.

Homestead Science for Every Family

You might be thinking, “But I don’t live on a farm!”

The beauty of Homestead Science is its adaptability. Even if you don’t have acres of land, you can incorporate elements of it into your homeschooling journey:

Urban gardening: Grow herbs, vegetables, and even fruit trees in containers on a balcony or patio.
Backyard chickens: Raise a small flock of chickens for eggs and companionship.
Beekeeping: Learn about beekeeping and support local pollinators.
Composting: Reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
Cooking and food preservation: Explore different cooking methods, learn to preserve fruits and vegetables, and experiment with new recipes.

There are options for preschool through high school for the whole family to learn together.

Homestead Science in the Classroom

The principles of Homestead Science can also be effectively integrated into traditional classroom settings. School gardens, farm-to-table programs, and hands-on projects can bring learning to life and engage students in a meaningful way.

My Journey and Passion for Homestead Science

Growing up on a farm instilled in me a deep respect for the land and a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things. I learned the value of hard work, the importance of sustainable practices, and the joy of producing something with my own hands.

My passion for Homestead Science and the benefits it provides stems from a desire to share this knowledge with others, to empower children with the skills and understanding they need to thrive in a changing world.

Click the photo to learn more about making Homestead Science part of your homeschool curriculum!

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Bringing Homestead Science to Your Homeschool

If you’re looking to enrich your homeschooling journey with a more hands-on, experiential approach, I encourage you to explore the possibilities of Homestead Science.

Start small: Begin with a simple project like planting a small herb garden or raising a few backyard chickens.
Embrace the learning process: Allow your children to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences.
Connect with other families: Join local homeschooling groups or find online communities that share your interest in Homestead Science.
Resources: Utilize online resources, books, and documentaries to deepen your understanding and expand your knowledge.

Homestead Science is more than just a curriculum; it’s a way of life. It’s about fostering a deep connection to nature, cultivating a sense of responsibility, and equipping children with the skills they need to thrive in a changing world.

I believe that by incorporating Homestead Science into our educational journey, we can empower the next generation to become responsible stewards of the planet, to appreciate the bounty of nature, and to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

If you’re ready to add Homestead Science to your educational program, head over to the Homestead Education Store or reach out to us directly for group discounts and custom invoicing.