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Old Ways, New Hands: A Hands-On Homeschool Series

  • Crane House and Historic YWCA 110 Orange Road Montclair, NJ, 07042 United States (map)

Thursdays 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, & 10/8 from 9:30am - 11:30am.

This 5-week hearth- and homestead-based series introduces children to traditional handcrafts and foodways through activities such as tea, butter, and candle making, as well as flower pressing, and canning. Students will learn how to work around a real hearth fire and explore historic and seasonal practices through hands-on projects each week.

Each class begins with a lesson connected to history, daily life, and traditional skills, followed by guided activities at the hearth and worktable. Students are encouraged to use creativity, observation, and decision-making as they experiment with natural materials, seasonal ingredients, and handmade projects.

Classes may involve ingredients such as herbs, flowers, fruit, dairy, or beeswax. Please highlight any allergies or restrictions when registering. To register, click here.

This program is for children ages 7 to 11. As class space is limited, registration is required in advance. 

Cost: $200/student for the entire series. Individual class registration is not available. 

All sessions begin in the hearth kitchen of the Crane House & Historic YWCA.

Earlier Event: July 27
Farm Camp This July & August
Later Event: September 19
Guided House Tour: Many Voices