Homeschool Days

Led by a Museum Educator, each session blends classroom learning with gallery exploration. Participants will have the chance to explore exhibitions and take part in a hands-on activity to further their learning. Sessions are 45 minutes for PreK 3–1st grade and 90 minutes for 2nd grade and up. Our next homeschool day is September 29, 2025. 

MORNING SESSIONS

Foundations of a Building (Grades PreK3-3): In this program, students will explore the basics of building, focusing on the design and construction of roofs. This program will incorporate elements of geometry, art, and design into learning about the process of building and the tools and materials used. 

City by Design (Grades 2-4): Students become city planners for a day as they explore how Washington, D.C. and its neighborhoods were developed. They identify common challenges cities face and design their own model communities in response. Using LEGO® bricks, students bring their cities to life while learning about planning, problem-solving, and creativity.  

Before the Museum: Civil War Origins (Grades 5-8): This program uses the National Building Museum, formerly the Pension Building, as a lens into Civil War history in Washington, D.C. Through primary sources, historic architecture, and hands-on activities, students explore the Civil War’s impact on many groups and how this iconic building came to be. 

AFTERNOON SESSIONS

Build Your Story (Grades PreK3-3): Through guided exploration of the Building Stories exhibition, students uncover the shared skills of architects, authors, and illustrators. They will use these skills to design and create their own pop-up book, blending storytelling with design thinking in a fun and creative experience. 

Career Exploration (Grades 2-5): This program introduces students to the wide range of careers connected to the National Building Museum. Participants will learn about construction-based careers and arts and culture careers, like curators, preservationists, and exhibition designers, introducing learners to a world of possibilities. 

Designing for Disaster (Grades 6-8): Students explore how engineers design buildings to withstand natural disasters, particularly earthquakes. After learning about engineering and disaster resilience, students put their skills to the test by constructing and evaluating their own buildings on a shake table. 

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Homeschool Sessions