Creating a Homeschool Science Fair

One of my favorite things about Homeschooling is how inspired I am by my fellow Homeschooling parents. That inspiration has led me to some wonderful experiences and opportunities, like creating a Homeschool Science Fair for my community.

One day I was scrolling through one of my homeschool support groups and I came across this post, it was asking if a science fair existed for homeschoolers in my area. The post received multiple responses along the lines of “No, but I really wish there was one”. I decided right then and there, well if there isn’t one, let’s make one! I started reaching out to more parents to gauge interest and I was surprised by how many people loved the idea!

Once I realized there was a need I reached out to my local library. I was so pleased to learn we could use their meeting space for free! As word got out I quickly realized that space would not be large enough. Fortunately, I was able to secure a location at a local college who was happy to host!

So…if you are wanting to bring a Homeschool science fair  to your community…let me inspire you!

 

Step by Step Guide: How to Organize a Homeschool Science Fair

At least 2-3 months before

Set the date and confirm location

• As I noted above, size matters when determining your location so I would start with your local libraries, churches and community centers. They are usually happy to provide space for little to no charge at all.
• If you are wanting or expecting a large crowd you should contact local colleges to see if they want to sponsor the event. More and more collages are appealing to homeschoolers and love to draw them in. If you go this route, try contacting the dual enrollment specialist at the college. They are experienced with dealing with homeschoolers. 

What is the budget?

• This is important to establish. If you think the cost will rest solely on your shoulders, ask yourself if that is something you are willing to take on? If so, how much are you willing to spend?
• Don’t be afraid to ask for donations.
  
• You can even charge a fee to enter to make up for the cost. If you want to forgo the fee consider selling raffle tickets instead. You will need to offer a prize of course, so that will factor into your budget. 

Decide on the rules

Having a clear set of guidelines is key for all who attend. Some questions to consider:

• What are the ages?
• What are the requirements to participate?
• How will prizes be awarded? If you think you will have a wide age range it might be best to have age level prizes to keep the competition more fair. 

Recruit Judges

• Ask for volunteers 
• Reach out to any local scientists and engineers
• Contact colleges and Science centers 

Make sure your judges understand the rules and the rubric you want them to follow when judging.

Create a sign up

If you are planning on the event to be exclusive to your co-op, a paper sign up can work just fine. If you are hoping to go beyond that, many online sign up tools can aid in this. Sign up genius is a popular tool as it allows all participants to see how many others signed up, along with ages. This can encourage hesitant participants when they can see similar ages and know how many others are joining. 

Attract science fair participants

• Post to social media. Many homeschool groups exist online and it’s a great way to advertise your event. 
• Consider creating your own social media page dedicated to the event. You can post regular updates, create a community and establish good communication with those attending.
• Make flyers and place them anywhere you know homeschoolers frequent
• Contact local vendors to see if they are interested in offering their services. They may wish to offer a prize for the opportunity to advertise. 

Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth!!

1 month before

• Finalize any activities you plan to have at the fair. I like to have crafts set up to keep the kids busy. 
• Order any prizes, ribbons or certificates you plan to distribute
• Confirm with any vendors, judges and facility requests you have made

The day of the Fair

Make sure your participants understand where to set up. It’s helpful to have a sign in sheet so you can greet each participant and direct them where to go. Have a system for the judges to easily identify winners. Cards can be placed in front of each project with numbers or the child’s age.

Above all, be sure to have fun!

You did it! 

Relax, enjoy and take pride in the wonderful opportunity you have created for your community!