Education Programs
Let us help you bring history alive with interactive, inquiry based programs created to complement your classroom lessons. All programs correspond to the most recent Ontario curriculum, and we focus on making local connections to broader concepts of history.
Programs are available each Monday through Friday in the months of May, June, September, and October. Can't come to us? We can bring the museum to you with an alternative outreach program year-round!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What programs do you offer?
Our programs are modular, and you can build it how you like. Select from our tour and activity options to build the perfect program for your interests or curriculum connections. (See program options below).
Q: How long is a program?
Our programs typically run a half-day (3 hours) with a lunch/snack break. The suggested program time is 10:00am to 1:00pm. This is flexible based on your needs.
Q: How many participants can be in a program?
Let us know your numbers and we will make sure to accommodate with enough staff and materials to run the program.
Q: How much does a program cost?
The final cost of the program depends on the number of participants. We charge $5 per child.
Q: I can’t get to the museum; how can I still participate in an educational program?
Contact us, and we can work on accommodating an in-school visit from museum staff to run a modified version of one of our programs.
Q: What does a program look like?
Our programs begin with a specialized tour of some of our historic buildings, followed by a hands-on educational activity. The half-day will end with a snack/lunch break and the opportunity to explore our grounds and gardens.
Q: I don’t see a tour I like?
None of our tours fit your needs? Send us an e-mail and we are happy to work on developing a tour to accommodate you.
Educational Program Options
All tours include seeing a minimum of two of our Historic Houses (including the Temple). Tours run approximately 30 minutes.
Tours
Settler Buildings
Heritage Crafting
Historical Gardening
Rebellion & Reform
Students will compare and contrast early and later examples of settler houses and explore how these houses shaped their inhabitants' everyday lives.
Students will learn to appreciate the impressive ways that early European settlers crafted the everyday items we take for granted today.
Students will investigate historical gardening practices and why settlers relied so much on farming to survive.
Students will explore the story of the Children of Peace, their role in the Rebellion of 1837, and the fight for responsible Government in Canada.
Log Cabin, Doan House
Log Cabin, Doan House
Doan House Garden, Cookhouse, Drive Shed
Sharon Temple, David Willson’s Study, Log Cabin
Depending on the length of the program desired, one or two activities may be selected. Age ranges are suggestions only.
Activity
Natural Dye Cloths
Basket Weaving
Miniature Log Cabins
Loom Weaving
Candle Making
Rebellion Boxes
Students will tie-dye a re-usable rag with dyes made from natural materials like flowers and beets.
Students will be provided with a basket base and can weave their own basket design and decorate as they like with paint.
Students will create popsicle stick log-cabins and then seal and decorate them.
On small looms, students will be guided to create their own mini tapestry to take home with them.
From colour, to scent, to decoration, students will create their own signature candle using historical techniques.
Students will cut out and decorate their own paper Rebellion Boxes with their own message of freedom inspired by real Rebellion Boxes.
Suggested Age Ranges
7+
10+
8+
7+
9+
8+