While school began in August for most, the kids and I have been ramping up this month on all things homeschool preschool. And while I was a raised a homeschooler, getting organized with a five and three-year-old that has taken me a minute! We’re finding our home groove, but making time for field trips is as important as ever. Check out some of our favorite spots that are perfect for all ages exploring this season—and for some educational credit to boot.
1. Friends of Linebaugh Library Book Store
Hopefully it goes without saying that the Rutherford County Library System is one of the most essential education tools locally with its plethora of media materials both in-house and online. But the only thing better about borrowing great tools is being able to pick them up for a bargain. The FOLL bookstore (located on the 2nd story parking garage at the downtown Linebaugh Library branch) offers a wealth of materials, including curriculum guides (dingdingdingding, homeschool moms!), as low as 50 cents to a dollar a piece, making building the home library a little more economical. The doors are only open when volunteers are available, so individuals and families can reserve a time for browsing the stacks by emailing follintheboro@gmail.com.
2. Sam Davis Home
Whether your preschooler loves Toddler Tuesdays the last Tuesday of the month, or your middle schooler wants to experience a Soldier’s Day, or your whole family just needs an educational outing together, the staff at Sam Davis Home can help. For a list of happenings and opportunities visit their website at samdavishome.org or email educational director Cassie Welsh at education@samdavishome.org.
3. Oaklands Mansion
If you’ve followed my page long, you know that this is one of our favorite local spots. Taking a self-guided tour (reservations required!) of the historic Civil War-era manse is intriguing any time, but it also offers a fantastic experience in discovering local wildlife and observing seasonal changes in nature. Take a tour of the Arboretum (no charge) and snap a pic with the 200-year-old Oak tree onsite. Tromp through the wetlands trail and visit the gardens before settling in for a picnic on the lawn. oaklandsmansion.org
4. Lucky Ladd Farms
The site of the state’s largest petting zoo, Lucky Ladd enchants all visitors with its presentation of animal care and all things agriculture. You won’t want to miss their seasonal pumpkin patch and corn maze or the fun of climbing tractors and getting in a hike on the outdoor trail. luckyladdfarms.com
5. Morning Glory Orchard
Learn what goes on behind the scenes of a working apple orchard—and taste the delicious fruits of the labor—at Nolensville’s Morning Glory Orchard, just 10 minutes from Murfreesboro city limits. Tours are booked for the season, but guests are welcome to shop the fruit and incredible homemade goodies in-store (ciders, elderberry syrup, jams, spreads and more!) and bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds ($5/person). morninggloryorchard.com
Want more family fun? Check out the events coming up this weekend:
Friday, September 25, 7-10pm- Graves into Gardens Workship Night at Fountains Gateway (hosted by Experience Community)
Saturday, September 26, 9am-1pm- Fall for Lascassas at the Lascassas Farmers Market
Saturday, September 26, 10am-1pm- Bark Bash: A Festival for Dog Lovers at Historic Sam Davis Home and Plantation
Saturday, September 26, 6pm—Kirk Cameron and Selah at World Outreach Church
Sunday, September 27, 9-11am- Toy Land Little Leapers at Skyzone Murfreesboro
Sunday, September 27, 3pm- Goats at Mayday Brewery
