Maximize Your Homeschooling Success: Walla Walla’s Top Local Resources for Families
The Power of Community: Using Local Resources to Achieve Your Homeschool Goals
Starting a new homeschool year is an exciting time. You’ve likely set goals for your family—from academic milestones to creative projects—and are eager to see your plans take shape. But let’s be honest, homeschooling doesn’t happen in a bubble. Some of the best tools for success might already be waiting for you right in your backyard. That’s the beauty of homeschooling in the Walla Walla Valley: our community is brimming with resources that can bring your goals to life.
In this post, we’ll explore how tapping into local resources can enrich your homeschool journey and help you achieve your goals for the year. Whether you’re focusing on academics, socialization, creativity, or nature-based learning, there’s something here for every family.
Academic Enrichment Through Local Museums and Libraries
Homeschooling gives you the flexibility to make learning hands-on and interactive, and Walla Walla’s museums and libraries are perfect for this.
Fort Walla Walla Museum
Want to bring history lessons to life? The Fort Walla Walla Museum offers an incredible opportunity to dive deep into local and national history. With exhibits showcasing pioneer life, Native American culture, and military history, you can craft an engaging unit study around a visit. Bonus: their reenactments and special events provide immersive experiences that stick with kids far longer than any textbook chapter.
Walla Walla Public Library
Libraries are the unsung heroes of homeschooling, and the Walla Walla Public Library is no exception. Beyond their collection of books and research tools, the library frequently hosts educational workshops and events for kids. Use their space for quiet study time or borrow books to supplement your lessons. Pro tip: Check their calendar for seasonal programs—they’re often free and a great way to add variety to your routine.
Walla Walla Rural Library District
For families in more remote areas of the Walla Walla Valley, the Walla Walla Rural Library District is an invaluable resource. With multiple branches serving smaller communities, this library system offers access to books, technology, and educational programs tailored to diverse interests and age groups. They also provide online resources, including eBooks and research databases, perfect for supplementing homeschool curricula. Check out their calendar for family-friendly events or workshops that can add variety to your lessons.
Children’s Museum of Walla Walla
If you have younger learners, the Children’s Museum of Walla Walla is a must-visit. Their interactive exhibits make learning about science, art, and community roles fun and accessible for kids. A trip here can easily double as a field trip and a way to spark curiosity in little ones.
Connection Opportunities Through Local Groups and Events
Connection and community is a key part of homeschooling, and the Walla Walla Valley offers plenty of opportunities for kids (and parents!) to connect with others.
Evergreen Play Club
The Evergreen Play Club is a gem for homeschooling families looking for a safe and engaging space for their kids to play. Not only does it give children the chance to socialize, but it also allows parents to network with other homeschool families. Consider adding a weekly playdate here to your calendar. Their day passes are affordable, and the atmosphere is perfect for all ages.
Homeschool Meetups
Joining a local homeschool group can make a world of difference. Regular meetups can include playdates, co-ops, or even collaborative field trips. These gatherings provide opportunities for kids to make friends and for parents to exchange ideas and support. If you’re unsure where to start, ask around at the library or on local community boards—chances are there’s a group waiting to welcome you.
Enhancing Creativity and Life Skills with Local Businesses
One of the joys of homeschooling is the freedom to explore creative pursuits and life skills, and Walla Walla’s small businesses can help.
Book and Game Bookstore
For literature lovers, the Book and Game Bookstore is a treasure trove. Use it to build your homeschool library or pick up resources for unit studies. They often stock books on local history and nature—a great way to tie your lessons to the Walla Walla Valley. Keep an eye out for events like book clubs or author visits, which can add an interactive element to your learning.
Exploring Music and Performing Arts Opportunities
Homeschooling families have access to incredible music programs offered by the Walla Walla Symphony, which are free and designed to inspire young musicians.
SPARK! Composition Course
From January 19 to February 28, the SPARK! Composition Course is available online for young composers in grades 3-12. This course includes private lessons and group workshops that culminate in an online showcase where participants’ original compositions are performed by Walla Walla Symphony musicians. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their creative spark while connecting with a supportive musical community.
WWSYO Concerto Competition
On January 29, the WWSYO Concerto Competition invites young musicians to perform a concerto or aria for a panel of adjudicators. Selected participants not only receive monetary prizes but also the chance to perform with the Walla Walla Symphony Youth Orchestra in May 2025. It’s a wonderful way to develop performance skills and work towards an exciting milestone.
WWSYO Spring Session
From February 5 to May 5, the Walla Walla Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Session offers rehearsals with esteemed director Bruce Walker. Rehearsals take place on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:15 PM at Pioneer Middle School. Students can attend before auditioning, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned musicians alike. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the upcoming WWSYO Fall Concert on January 22.
For more details and registration, visit wwsymphony.coursestorm.com.
Exploring Nature and Science in the Walla Walla Valley
Nature is one of the best classrooms, and the Walla Walla Valley provides endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. These are just a few examples of what is available around the valley. We highly recommend you check out Outside Walla Walla for more information and ideas.
Bennington Lake
Plan a field trip to Bennington Lake for a day of hiking and birdwatching. Use the outing to teach ecology, biology, or even creative writing by encouraging kids to journal about what they see. You could also incorporate science by tracking seasonal changes or identifying local plant species.
Local Farms and Vineyards
The Valley’s thriving agricultural community offers unique educational opportunities. Many farms and vineyards welcome visitors for tours, giving kids a firsthand look at how food is grown and harvested. This ties in beautifully with lessons on biology, economics, and sustainability. Seasonal activities like apple picking or pumpkin patches add a fun, hands-on element to your learning.
Building Long-Term Community Connections
Homeschooling isn’t just about academics—it’s also about creating a rich, supportive environment for your family. By connecting with local organizations and businesses, you can build relationships that benefit your homeschool journey in the long run. Volunteering as a family is another way to integrate service-learning into your homeschool goals while giving back to the community.
Homeschooling in the Walla Walla Valley is more than books and lesson plans. By tapping into the resources around you, you can bring your homeschool goals to life in meaningful and memorable ways. This month, we challenge you to explore one new local resource and find a way to incorporate it into your homeschooling. Whether it’s a visit to the museum, a hike at Bennington Lake, or a new craft project, you’ll be amazed at how the community can enrich your learning experience.
We’d love to hear from you! What local resources have you used in your homeschooling? Share your stories in the comments—your ideas might inspire another family to try something new.