Kidsteaders:
Raising the Next Generation of Homesteaders
Little hands can learn big skills! At Homesteaders of America, we believe the next generation should have opportunities to discover the joys of growing, raising, making, and learning by doing.
From hands-on activities at our annual conference to educational resources families can enjoy at home, our Kidsteaders program helps children explore homesteading in ways that are fun, practical, and age-appropriate.
There’s Something for Every Young Homesteader!
The Homesteaders of America Conference is a family-friendly event, and there’s plenty for children to experience throughout the weekend!
Our Kidsteaders program gives young attendees opportunities to learn new skills, meet farm animals, explore the vendor area, and enjoy hands-on activities created with kids in mind.
From organized classes to simply exploring the fairgrounds with family, there’s more than one way to be a Kidsteader!
Hands-On Homesteading Classes for Kids
There’s something special about learning a new skill with your own two hands!
Our Kidsteader classes introduce children ages 6–12 to practical homesteading skills through engaging, age-appropriate lessons.
Whether they’re exploring something new or building on what they’ve already learned at home, these classes offer a chance to ask questions, get involved, and learn alongside other young homesteaders.
Classes require separate registration, and space is limited.
Join the Kidsteader Scavenger Hunt!
Put on your exploring shoes! Our Kidsteader Scavenger Hunt takes children on an adventure throughout the conference as they visit participating vendors and speakers, complete fun challenges, and discover something new along the way.
Each child receives a scavenger hunt sheet filled with prompts to complete as they explore the event. They’ll meet people throughout the homesteading community, discover different skills and products, and learn a little more about the world of homesteading.
Once they’ve completed their hunt, they can turn in their finished sheet to claim a prize!
Farm Animals, Fun & Plenty to Explore!
One of the best parts of the conference for our youngest attendees is getting up close with farm animals!
As families explore the vendor area, children may have opportunities to see and interact with animals such as alpacas, goats, rabbits, and baby chicks. It’s a wonderful chance to ask questions, meet the people who raise these animals, and learn a little more about caring for livestock.
Need a break from walking around? Kids can also enjoy our wooden train play area, a favorite spot for little ones to play during conference weekend.
A Note for Parents: Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian while exploring the vendor area, interacting with animals, and using play areas. Animal interactions depend on participating vendors and their guidelines.
Register for Kidsteader Classes
Kidsteader Classes are available for kids ages 6-12
Registration will open soon.
A few things to note before signing up:
- Classes are $10 per child, PER CLASS
- Class size is limited (50 children per class) and pre-registration is required prior to the class.
- Parents or guardians must sign children in & out every time the child is dropped off and picked up.
- You MUST come check on your child in-between each class during break time. Please check off that you’ve signed them out or back in.
- A liability waiver must be filled out by a Parent or Guardian and left with a Kidsteader volunteer. The link for the waiver will be in your order email.
- Parents or guardians must be available at all times that their children are attending Kidsteader classes and able to pick their children up if an issue arises.
- Children cannot be dropped off before their class.
- Children will not have bathroom breaks during class. You are responsible for checking on your child and taking them to the bathroom.
- You must pick your child up when the class ends; children may not be left to attend the next class unless you are with them.
- Play areas will not be attended by HOA volunteers or staff.
- Please consider your child’s behavior and attention span before signing up. If at any time your child cannot behave, we will call you and ask you to come and retrieve them promptly.
Bring Homesteading Education Home!
The learning doesn’t have to stop when conference weekend ends!
Our Kidsteader educational resources help families explore practical homesteading skills throughout the year.
Whether you’re homeschooling, looking for a hands-on family project, or encouraging a child’s growing interest in homesteading, these resources offer opportunities to keep learning together.
Kidsteader Unit Studies
Garden Unit Studies | Early & Upper Elementary
Help younger learners discover the world of gardening through age-appropriate activities and lessons that connect learning with real-life experiences in the garden.
Small Engine Repair | High School
Introduce older students to the basics of small engine repair, helping them build an understanding of mechanical systems and practical maintenance skills.
Midwifery | High School
An educational introduction to midwifery and the role it plays in pregnancy, childbirth, and family life.
Kidsteaders Corner: In the Membership & Magazine
Looking for additional activities for your young homesteaders?
You can also enjoy Kidsteader coloring pages, word searches, recipes, crafts, and other activities through the membership dashboard and in the Kidsteader portion of the HOA Magazine!
These resources are a fun way to encourage curiosity and keep children engaged with homesteading topics at home.
(Remember that the magazine is included with a membership!)
Kidsteaders in Action!
See the fun for yourself! Take a look at some of our favorite moments from past conferences, where young homesteaders have learned new skills, met farm animals, made friends, and enjoyed hands-on adventures.
