Small Group Science Adventures
Hands-on Science Enrichment for Homeschoolers Ages 9–18 in Pinellas County
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Students observe, question, investigate, build, and explore science through real-world activities, indoor investigations, and outdoor nature-based learning.
Observe • Question • Investigate • Repeat
What We Offer
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St. Pete Science for Homeschoolers offers small-group science enrichment for homeschool students ages 9–18.
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Sessions are designed to be hands-on, active, and discussion-based.
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Students explore science through observation, investigation, building, drawing, measuring, questioning, and real-world discovery.
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Topics may include biology, ecology, environmental management, earth science, physics, chemistry, Florida and urban wildlife, weather, and the scientific process.
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Student inquiry helps create paths of exploration and discovery :-)
Led by Mr. Van Grondelle, a Florida-certified science teacher with 15 years of classroom experience and a background in ecology and wildlife biology.
Age Groups
Junior Scientists
Ages 9–12
60–75 minute sessions
Junior Scientists explore science through hands-on activities, observations, drawings, group discussions, simple investigations, and outdoor discovery.
*Small groups allow students to ask questions, share ideas, and activate learning naturally.
Science Investigators
Ages 13–18
75–90 minute sessions
Science Investigators explore science in greater depth through investigations, real-world questions, discussion, analysis, field observations, and applied science activities.
*Small groups allow students to ask questions, share ideas, and activate learning naturally.
What Students Do
Students may:
- Observe plants, animals, weather, water, soil, rocks, and natural patterns
- Use hand lenses, microscopes/magnification scopes, field guides, notebooks, and simple science tools
- Ask questions and discuss possible explanations
- Build, test, compare, draw, classify, and investigate
- Explore cause and effect
- Connect science ideas to real organisms, real environments, and real-world situations
- Create large group drawings, models, charts, or projects to show what they discover
- Student inquiry will help create paths of exploration and discovery :-)
- Students will discover the connections that bring science to life :)
Meet the Teacher
Sessions are led by Mr. Van Grondelle, a Florida-certified science teacher with 15 years of classroom experience and a background in applied ecology and wildlife biology.
I have taught Biology, Earth/Space Science, Physical Science, Environmental Management, Gifted Middle School Science, and Middle Grades Science.
I also have professional and academic experience in ecology and wildlife biology in South Florida, including the Everglades.
I enjoy helping students explore science through indoor investigations, outdoor observations, real-world examples, and meaningful discussion.
I love helping students discover the connections that bring science to life.
Science & Nature Learning Space
Many sessions take place in my Science & Nature Learning Space, a dedicated learning area in my home with large windows overlooking native landscaping, wildlife habitat, and a small lake.
The setting provides frequent opportunities for observation, inquiry, and outdoor exploration. Students may observe birds, insects, plants, reptiles, weather, water, and other features of the natural world as part of their science learning.
Some sessions may also include outdoor activities, field observations, or nature-based investigations when appropriate.
I offer travelling science programs also in the Pinellas County-Tampa Bay area.
Programs, Pricing & Enrollment
Weekly small-group sessions are currently being organized based on student interest, age group, availability, and location.
Session rate: $35 per student per session
Current target groups:
Junior Scientists
Ages 9–12
Science Investigators
Ages 13–18
If you are interested, please contact me to discuss availability, scheduling options,
and whether the program may be a good fit for your child.