Austin Home Educators

Happy Birthday to Texas! On this March 2nd, we celebrate Texas Independence Day- commemorating the declaration signed in 1836 that set the Lone Star State on its path to freedom.

March is the perfect month for a Texas Unit Study in your homeschool! Dive into our state's rich history with hands-on activities that bring lessons to life. Best part? Most are easy day trips from Austin or San Antonio, so you can explore without overnight stays. Here are some top picks:

- The Alamo (San Antonio): Visit this iconic mission where Texian defenders made their stand in 1836. Tour the grounds, see artifacts, and learn about the famous battle. Right in downtown SA; about 1.5 hours from Austin.

- Texas State Capitol (Austin): Explore the stunning pink granite building with guided tours of the chambers, rotunda, and grounds. Discuss government and Texas symbols-perfect for civics tie-ins. In the heart of Austin; roughly 1.5 hours from San Antonio.

- Bullock Texas State History Museum (Austin): Immerse in interactive exhibits spanning Native American history to the space age, with special homeschool days featuring hands-on programs. Just minutes from the Capitol; about 1.5 hours from SA.

- Presidio La Bahia (Goliad): Step into a restored 18th-century fort with living history demos and the site of the Goliad Massacre. Great for understanding the Texas Revolution. Around 1.5 hours from SA or 2.5 from Austin-pack a picnic!

Youc an even have a mock "convention" at home to debate independence. What Texas spots are on your unit study list? Share below and let's inspire each other!

A lot of people have asked for a comprehensive preparedness list for the winter storm.

Feel free to bookmark this or share with friends, stay safe out there:

⛽️ Gas up every car (and top off any cans if you’ve got them)
💵 Pull cash — assume card readers go down
🔋 Charge everything: phones, battery packs, laptops, tool batteries
🔌 Make one “charging pile” with all cords so nobody’s hunting
🔦 Headlamp for every adult + flashlight for every kid
🏮 Lanterns for the main rooms (no candles… kids + candles = nope)
🔋 Fresh batteries in a big ziplock — label it

🏠 Pick ONE “warm room” right now (small room, easiest to heat)
🚪 Shut doors to the rest of the house
🧣 Blankets over windows at night + towels at the bottom of doors
🛏️ Drag mattresses/pads in there if you need to
🧤 Lay out clothes like it’s ski season: base layer + hoodie + coat + hat + thick socks
👟 Slippers/shoes indoors — cold floors will wreck you
🧦 Dry clothes only — damp socks = change them immediately

⚠️ Generator = OUTSIDE only (not garage, not “cracked door,” OUTSIDE)
🚨 CO alarms working on every floor, especially near bedrooms
🔌 Use outdoor-rated extension cords only — don’t run cords under rugs
🙅‍♂️ Don’t do any “dryer plug” stuff — not worth dying for
⛽️ Fuel stays OUTSIDE the house

✅ If you’re using a heater: only indoor-rated
🔥 Keep it away from blankets/curtains/kids
🌬️ Crack a window just a tiny bit
😴🚫 Never sleep with a flame heater on

💧 Water: plan 1 gallon per person per day minimum
🪣 Fill bathtub/buckets for flushing/washing
🚱 On a well? Assume ZERO water once power is out
🔧 Find the main water shutoff now (don’t wait)
🚰 When it’s brutally cold: let faucets drip (if water’s still on)
🧊 Open sink cabinets on outside walls
🧣 Wrap exposed pipes / cover outdoor spigots
🧯 Disconnect hoses

🥫 Food: buy 7 days of no-cook / easy stuff
🍞 Stock basics: PB, tuna, crackers, granola, soup, jerky, shelf milk, cereal
🗝️ Manual can opener
🍽️ Paper plates if you don’t want to burn water on dishes
❄️ Fridge/freezer: open it as little as possible
✅ Eat fridge first, then freezer, then pantry

💊 Refill prescriptions
🤒 Kids fever meds + thermometer + first-aid kit
⚡️ CPAP/nebulizer/anything critical: have a power plan
🧼 Baby wipes + sanitizer + trash bags
🪣 No water? Bucket toilet plan (bucket + bags + kitty litter)

🎲 Make a “kid station” in the warm room: books, coloring, cards, board games
🎬 Download movies ahead of time (airplane mode)
🚫 Clear rules: no touching heaters, no cords, no generator zone
🌙🏮 Lantern by hallway/bathroom at night
🧸 One comfort thing per kid in the warm room

📱 Phones: low power mode + dim screen
📝 Write down important numbers on paper
📞 Pick a check-in time with family/friends (morning + evening)

🚗❄️ Don’t drive unless you have to — ice will humble you fast
🧰 Car kit: blanket, flashlight, snacks, water, jumper pack
🚘⚠️ If you run the car for heat: clear the tailpipe and never in an enclosed space

✅ Every morning: quick safety sweep
🚨🔥 CO alarms good, heater clear, cords not hot
🌡️💧 Watch for leaks when things thaw
🤝 Check on neighbors if you can

🗑️ Toss sketchy food when power comes back
⚡️ Bring the house back online slowly (don’t flip everything at once)

If you know a family in need.

@ctxfoodbank anticipated higher demand for its turkey distribution event at the Pfield in Pflugerville Tuesday morning (11/4). The organization has planned special food distributions this November to help SNAP recipients. Details for this week: 🟠11/4: Nelson Field - Austin - 5 to 7 p.m. 🟠11/8: Kipp School - South Austin - 9 to 10:30 a.m. 🟠11/8 Uhland Elementary - Uhland - 9 to 10:30 a.m. More distributions are listed on the Central Texas Food Bank website.

Struggling with your homeschooled kids feeling lonely? 😔 You’re not alone. My latest blog post shares practical tips to help your child find their tribe—from park days to Scouts, 4-H, and more. Discover what worked for us and share your ideas! 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Read now: https://texashomeeducators.org/helping-your-homeschooled-child-overcoming-loneliness/

Last call, homeschool educators! We will host a Summer Agriculture Academy specifically for homeschool programs Aug. 13-14 in Waco.

This two-day academy will offer site visits, hands-on learning, and presentations by agricultural and educational experts.

Register by Wednesday, July 30: https://txfb.us/homeschoolSAAreg25

Get the full details: https://txfb.us/homeschoolSAA

You can teach your child how to write with pencils and literally any kind of paper. You can teach them how to count with toys from their toy box. You can teach a child to read a clock just by using the clock on the wall. You can teach them to count money with a pile of coins on the kitchen table. You can teach geography by spending a few minutes a day with a map or a globe. You can teach history with free books from the library, or free documentaries on YouTube. You can teach them so many things about the natural world by just spending time outdoors. You can teach them composition by letting them copy the work of great writers. You can teach them how to think with conversations about everything.

Education isn't complicated or expensive. It doesn't require a teaching certificate. You don't even have to have a curriculum for everything. (Don't come at me; I love curriculum. But I've taught my kids a LOT of things without it.)

If you want your kids out of the public school system, you can do it. Just start. That's really it. Get some pencils and paper, and go to the library. Go in the backyard. Play, read, walk, talk, and be together. You'll be surprised at how much your kids can learn just from YOU.

https://nickitruesdell.com/

[Art: Reading by Edmund Alder (b,1876)]

🎇 Texas homeschool moms! Celebrate July 4th with free K-12 crafts, games & lessons on our blog! Save time & spark patriotism!
https://texashomeeducators.org/independence-day-resources-for-k-12-homeschoolers/

☀️ CHEAP THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN AUSTIN THIS SUMMER 😎 💦Barton Springs Pool 📍 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin 🎟️ $2-5 💦 @chascofamilyymca 📍 1801 N Interstate Hwy 35, Round Rock 🎟️ $4 🎥 @drafthouseaustin 🎟️ $7summer movies Alamo Kids Camp 💦 Veteran’s Memorial Pool 📍 2525 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park 🎟️ $4-6 💦 Rock’N River Waterpark 📍 800 Harrell Pkwy, Round Rock 🎟️ Half- Price Twilight Hours $3-7 from 5-7pm (closed Wednesdays) 🎮 @cidercade_austin 📍 600 E Riverside Dr, Austin 🎟️ $12 admission, all games are free unlimited play 🏖️ Emma Long Metropolitan Park 📍 1600 City Park Rd, Austin 🎟️ $5/vehicle 💦 Quarry Splash Pad 📍 3005 Co Rd 175, Leander 🎟️ $2 🚂 @zilkereagle 📍 2131 1/2, William Barton Dr, Austin 🎟️ $6 (free the first Fri of each month!) 🚂 Cedar Rock Railroad 📍 462-544 Borho Dr, Round Rock 🎟️ $3.75 🌳 @mckinneyfallsstatepark 📍 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin 🎟️ $6 (kids 12 and under are free) #austinkids #austintx #austinfamily #austin #atx #austinmoms #cheapsummerfun

# 2025 Vacation Bible Schools in the Austin, Texas Area: A Family Guide to Summer Faith and Fun

Summer in Austin, Texas, is the perfect time for kids to dive into Vacation Bible School (VBS), where faith, fun, and friendships come together. Whether you’re in central Austin, Dripping Springs, Round Rock, or Lago Vista, there’s a VBS program to spark joy and spiritual growth for your kids. These programs offer engaging Bible lessons, crafts, games, and music, often at little to no cost. Since many churches finalize their 2025 schedules in spring, we’ve compiled a guide based on recent programs (2023–2024) and early 2025 announcements to help you plan. Below is a curated list of VBS options across the Austin area, with details on themes, ages, costs, and how to stay updated for 2025. Get ready for a summer of adventure and inspiration!

# 2025 Vacation Bible Schools in the Austin, Texas Area: A Family Guide to Summer Faith and Fun

Summer in Austin, Texas, is the perfect time for kids to dive into Vacation Bible School (VBS), where faith, fun, and friendships come together. Whether you’re in central Austin, Dripping Springs, Round Rock, or Lago Vista, there’s a VBS program to spark joy and spiritual growth for your kids. These programs offer engaging Bible lessons, crafts, games, and music, often at little to no cost. Since many churches finalize their 2025 schedules in spring, we’ve compiled a guide based on recent programs (2023–2024) and early 2025 announcements to help you plan. Below is a curated list of VBS options across the Austin area, with details on themes, ages, costs, and how to stay updated for 2025. Get ready for a summer of adventure and inspiration!

# # Austin Area VBS Programs

# # # 1. St. David’s Episcopal Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: "Camp Firelight: A Summer Camp Adventure with God" (2024 theme, may change for 2025)[](https://austinmoms.com/2024/03/25/austin-vacation-bible-school-guide-2024/)
- **Ages**: 3 years old (potty-trained) through 5th grade
- **When**: May 27–30, 2025, 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $55 per child
- **Details**: This morning VBS features Bible-themed adventures, science projects, games, and prayer, fostering faith and community. An optional sports camp (AO Sports) is available from noon–4:00 p.m. for ages 5–12 for an additional cost.
- **Contact**: Visit [saintdavids.net](https://saintdavids.net) for registration and 2025 details.
- **Note**: Volunteers are needed; contact the church to help.[](http://www.saintdavids.net/vbs.html)

# # # 2. St. Theresa Catholic Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: "Egypt: Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace" (2025 theme confirmed)[](https://st-theresa.org/vacation-bible-school)
- **Ages**: Rising Kindergarten through 5th grade (2025–26 school year)
- **When**: June 9–13, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $75 per child
- **Details**: Kids explore Joseph’s story through stations like Pyramid Playground (games), Oasis Eats and Beats (snacks and music), and Marketplace Shops (crafts), ending with a closing celebration. Childcare is available for full-week adult volunteers, and teens can apply to volunteer (EIM training required).
- **Contact**: Visit [st-theresa.org](https://st-theresa.org) or contact VBS Director Christine Chow for registration and volunteer details.
- **Note**: Registration is open; teens need to apply and interview for volunteer roles.[](https://st-theresa.org/vacation-bible-school)

# # # 3. Austin Ridge Bible Church (Bee Cave, Southwest, Dripping Springs)
- **Theme**: "Live It Out" (2025 theme at some campuses)[](https://alamocitymoms.com/in-and-around-san-antonio/summer-camps-and-activities/guide-to-vacation-bible-schools-in-san-antonio/)
- **Ages**: 3 years old (potty-trained) through entering 5th grade
- **When**: July 7–10, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. (Bee Cave); check other campuses for dates
- **Cost**: $10–$50 per child (varies by campus)
- **Details**: Known as Summer Blast, this high-energy VBS includes worship, Bible stories, games, and more, helping kids apply God’s Word to daily life. Multiple campus options make it accessible.
- **Contact**: Visit [austinridge.org](https://austinridge.org) for campus-specific details and registration.
- **Note**: A popular program with limited spots; register early.[](https://austinmoms.com/2022/05/20/austin-vacation-bible-school-guide-2022/)

# # # 4. Dripping Springs Methodist Church (Dripping Springs)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (2024 theme not specified)
- **Ages**: Rising Pre-K (waitlisted) through 5th grade
- **When**: TBD, typically a week in June or July, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: TBD, typically low-cost or free
- **Details**: Offers a family-oriented VBX with dinner, activities, worship, and Bible study for all ages, from kids to grandparents. Evening option (5:30–8:30 p.m.) available in past years for family participation.
- **Contact**: Check [drippingspringsmethodist.org](https://drippingspringsmethodist.org) for 2025 updates.
- **Note**: A great choice for families wanting a community-focused experience.[](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com/2025/03/07/top-vacation-bible-schools-in-austin-for-summer-2025/)

# # # 5. Woodlawn Baptist Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (2024 theme not specified)
- **Ages**: 4 years old through 5th grade; separate middle school option
- **When**: TBD, typically late June, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: Free
- **Details**: Features Bible lessons, crafts, games, and worship, with a separate program for middle schoolers running concurrently.
- **Contact**: Visit [woodlawnbaptist.com](https://woodlawnbaptist.com) for 2025 details.
- **Note**: A budget-friendly option with engaging activities for a range of ages.[](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com/2025/03/07/top-vacation-bible-schools-in-austin-for-summer-2025/)

# # # 6. Redeemer Lutheran Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Roar! Life is Wild – God is Good")
- **Ages**: 3 years old (potty-trained) through 4th grade; 5th–6th graders can volunteer
- **When**: June 9–13, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $20 donation suggested
- **Details**: Offers Bible adventures, games, and crafts in a nurturing environment. Junior volunteers (5th–6th grade) assist as crew or station leaders.
- **Contact**: Check [redeemer.net](https://redeemer.net) or email [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) for updates.[](https://austin.com/60-austin-area-vacation-bible-school-vbs-programs/)
- **Note**: Affordable and welcoming, with volunteer opportunities for older kids.

# # # 7. Riverbend Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Power Up – Raise Your Game")
- **Ages**: 4 years old (by September 1) through 5th grade
- **When**: June 16–20, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $50 per child
- **Details**: A dynamic VBS with worship, skits, games, and Bible stories, designed to engage kids in faith-based fun.
- **Contact**: Visit [riverbend.com](https://riverbend.com) or email Todd Mears at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).[](https://austin.com/60-austin-area-vacation-bible-school-vbs-programs/)
- **Note**: Known for its high-energy program and engaging activities.

# # # 8. St. Luke’s on the Lake Episcopal Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Bible Blast To the Past")
- **Ages**: Pre-school (3 years old, potty-trained) through 5th grade
- **When**: June 16–20, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $60 per child
- **Details**: Features Bible lessons, crafts, and games in a supportive, faith-filled setting.
- **Contact**: Check [stlukesonthelake.org](https://stlukesonthelake.org) or call (512) 266-2455.[](https://austinmoms.com/2015/05/26/38-vacation-bible-school-options/)
- **Note**: Ideal for families in northwest Austin seeking a traditional VBS experience.

# # # 9. Bannockburn Church (South, Dripping Springs, Buda/Kyle)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Adventures in Space")
- **Ages**: 3 years old (potty-trained) through 5th grade
- **When**: June 23–26, 2025, 6:00–8:30 p.m.
- **Cost**: Free
- **Details**: An evening VBS perfect for family date nights, featuring worship, games, and Bible stories at multiple campus locations.
- **Contact**: Visit [bannockburnchurch.com](https://bannockburnchurch.com) for campus-specific details.[](https://austinmoms.com/2022/05/20/austin-vacation-bible-school-guide-2022/)
- **Note**: Free and family-friendly, with convenient evening hours.

# # # 10. Lake Hills Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Week at the Museum")
- **Ages**: Kindergarten through 5th grade
- **When**: June 16–19, 2025, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
- **Cost**: Free
- **Details**: A unique VBS with worship, skits, games, snacks, and service projects, focusing on stories like Esther’s to teach humility and kindness.
- **Contact**: Visit [lakehillschurch.org](https://lakehillschurch.org) or call (512) 899-8333.[](https://austinmoms.com/2015/05/26/38-vacation-bible-school-options/)
- **Note**: A free, engaging program with a focus on meaningful lessons.

# # # 11. St. John Neumann Catholic Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (2024 theme not specified)
- **Ages**: Rising Kindergarten through 5th grade (2025–26 school year)
- **When**: TBD, typically a week in June, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: $75 per child
- **Details**: A Catholic-focused VBS with Bible adventures, crafts, and games. Childcare offered for full-week volunteers.
- **Contact**: Check [sjnaustin.org](https://sjnaustin.org) for 2025 updates.[](https://sjnaustin.org/vacation-bible-school)
- **Note**: Great for families seeking a Catholic VBS experience.

# # # 12. First United Methodist Church of Austin
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "G Force")
- **Ages**: Pre-K through 5th grade
- **When**: August 4–8, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
- **Cost**: $5 per child
- **Details**: Affordable and engaging, with Bible lessons, crafts, and activities designed to teach kids about God’s love.
- **Contact**: Visit [fumcaustin.org](https://fumcaustin.org) or contact Mary Heckman at (512) 587-5387.[](https://austinmoms.com/2015/05/26/38-vacation-bible-school-options/)
- **Note**: A budget-friendly option with a long-standing VBS tradition.

# # # 13. Covenant Presbyterian Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Power Up – Raise Your Game")
- **Ages**: 2 years old through 5th grade; 6th–12th graders can volunteer
- **When**: June 16–20, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: TBD, typically low-cost
- **Details**: Features Bible stories, crafts, and games, with volunteer opportunities for older kids to serve as youth leaders.
- **Contact**: Check [covenant.org](https://covenant.org) for 2025 details.[](https://austin.com/60-austin-area-vacation-bible-school-vbs-programs/)
- **Note**: Inclusive for younger kids and offers volunteer roles for teens.

# # # 14. The Quarries Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Everest: Conquering Challenges")
- **Ages**: 5 years old through 5th grade
- **When**: June 9–13, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: TBD, typically low-cost
- **Details**: Offers a fun, faith-filled VBS with Bible lessons, games, and crafts in a welcoming environment.
- **Contact**: Visit [thequarrieschurch.com](https://thequarrieschurch.com) or call (512) 241-0233.[](https://austinmoms.com/2015/05/26/38-vacation-bible-school-options/)
- **Note**: Conveniently located near MoPac for north Austin families.

# # # 15. Bethany Lutheran Church (Austin)
- **Theme**: TBD for 2025 (previous themes include "Roar!")
- **Ages**: 3 years old (potty-trained) through 6th grade
- **When**: June 23–27, 2025, 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- **Cost**: TBD, typically low-cost or free
- **Details**: A vibrant VBS with Bible stories, crafts, and activities, designed to engage kids in faith and fun.
- **Contact**: Visit [bethanyaustin.com](https://bethanyaustin.com) for 2025 updates.[](https://www.bethanyaustin.com/vbs)
- **Note**: A welcoming program for a wide range of ages.

# # Tips for Finding the Perfect VBS in Austin

- **Register Early**: Austin VBS programs often fill up quickly, with some like Bethany Lutheran offering waitlists. Check church websites in April or May 2025 for registration openings.[](https://houstonmom.com/houston-vacation-bible-school-guide/)
- **Affordable Options**: Many programs are free (e.g., Lake Hills, Bannockburn) or low-cost ($5–$75), with scholarships available at some churches like Austin Ridge.[](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com/2025/03/07/top-vacation-bible-schools-in-austin-for-summer-2025/)[](https://alamocitymoms.com/in-and-around-san-antonio/summer-camps-and-activities/guide-to-vacation-bible-schools-in-san-antonio/)
- **Teen Volunteers**: Churches like St. Theresa, Redeemer Lutheran, and Covenant Presbyterian offer volunteer roles for teens, often with training (e.g., EIM for Catholic churches). Contact churches for teen application details.[](https://st-theresa.org/vacation-bible-school)
- **Themes That Inspire**: Expect engaging 2025 themes like “Egypt: Joseph’s Journey” or “Live It Out,” designed to make Bible lessons relatable and fun. Confirm themes closer to summer.[](https://st-theresa.org/vacation-bible-school)[](https://alamocitymoms.com/in-and-around-san-antonio/summer-camps-and-activities/guide-to-vacation-bible-schools-in-san-antonio/)
- **Extended Care**: Some programs, like St. David’s, offer afternoon camps (e.g., AO Sports) for working parents, extending the day to 4:00 p.m. for an additional cost.[](http://www.saintdavids.net/vbs.html)
- **Catholic VBS Options**: St. Theresa and St. John Neumann provide Catholic-focused programs for families seeking a denominational experience.[](https://sjnaustin.org/vacation-bible-school)[](https://st-theresa.org/vacation-bible-school)
- **Stay Informed**: Subscribe to [Austin Moms](https://austinmoms.com) or [Dripping with Kids](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com) for updated VBS guides and summer activity lists.[](https://austinmoms.com/2024/03/25/austin-vacation-bible-school-guide-2024/)[](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com/2025/03/07/top-vacation-bible-schools-in-austin-for-summer-2025/)

# # Plan Your Summer 2025 VBS Experience
Austin’s VBS programs offer a perfect blend of faith, fun, and community for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a free evening program, a Catholic VBS, or extended care options, this guide has you covered. To secure a spot, check church websites in spring 2025 for the latest schedules, themes, and registration details. If you need help narrowing down options based on a specific Austin neighborhood, age group, or denomination, let me know, and I’ll tailor the list further. Here’s to a summer filled with joy, learning, and faith for your kids!

*Note: Details like dates, times, themes, and costs are based on 2023–2024 programs and early 2025 announcements. Always verify with the church’s website or contact them directly for the most current information.*[](https://austinmoms.com/2024/03/25/austin-vacation-bible-school-guide-2024/)[](https://drippingwithkidsblog.com/2025/03/07/top-vacation-bible-schools-in-austin-for-summer-2025/)

For more tailored recommendations or to focus on a specific area (e.g., Round Rock, Cedar Park), age group, or denomination, let me know, and I’ll refine the list further. Happy summer planning!