Homesteading Programs for Schools & Homeschool Groups
Homestead Act, Frontier Life & Great Plains Living History Experiences
Experience Life on the Great Plains!
Could your students meet the challenges of life on the American frontier?
Through historically inspired team challenges, hands-on activities, and educational presentations, students explore the hardships, decisions, and determination that shaped homesteading on the Great Plains.
Explore Our Homestead Programs
Stake Your Claim: The Homestead Act Challenge
160 acres are waiting. Can your team earn the land?
Race to stake your claim, face unexpected frontier hardships, and make critical decisions as you attempt to improve your land and successfully prove up under the Homestead Act of 1862.
A Day in the Life of a Homesteader
Could you keep up with life on the prairie?
Put your pioneer skills to the test in a lively team relay! Experience the demands of everyday homestead life while discovering the hard work, resourcefulness, and cooperation needed to establish a home on the Great Plains.
Whiteout! The Children's Blizzard of 1888
January 12, 1888. A deadly blizzard strikes. What would YOU do?
Through documented historical accounts and interactive team challenges, students confront difficult decisions inspired by the devastating storm. Working together, they must solve problems, respond to changing conditions, and discover the importance of leadership and sound judgment.
Explore the Blizzard Challenge
🎓 Educational Benefits
- Understanding westward expansion and land settlement
- Human-environment interaction
- Problem-solving and teamwork
- Nebraska & Great Plains history
- Emotional connection to real historical experiences
⏱️ Program Format
- 30–60 minute programs
- Half-day and full-day options available
- Recommended grade levels vary by program. Activities may be adapted for different ages and abilities.
- Ideal for classrooms, gyms, or outdoor spaces
💰 Grant-Friendly Programming
These programs qualify as:
- Humanities-based education
- Nebraska history programming
- Experiential learning opportunities
- Cultural and historical interpretation
Funding may be available through organizations such as:
Humanities Nebraska
Grant descriptions and supporting materials are available upon request.
📩 Book a Homestead Program
Bring frontier history to life in your classroom or homeschool group.
👉 Request availability and pricing today.
Availability Notice
Programs are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
Peak season dates fill quickly—early booking is strongly recommended.