Objective

By the end of this lesson, Wyett will have a foundational understanding of homesteading principles, including gardening, animal care, and self-sufficiency practices. Wyett will also create a simple plan for a homestead project that aligns with their interests and available resources.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for taking notes and planning
• Access to outdoor space for gardening or animal care (if possible)
• Basic gardening tools (if available)
• Information resources (books, articles, or videos about homesteading)
• Any available seeds or plants for gardening activities

Before the lesson, it's helpful for Wyett to think about their interests within homesteading—whether it's gardening, raising animals, or sustainable living practices.

Activities

• Garden Planning: Wyett will sketch a simple garden layout, deciding what vegetables or herbs they would like to grow. This includes researching the best plants for their climate and space.
• Animal Care Discussion: If Wyett has access to animals, they can spend time observing and learning how to care for them. If not, they can research a specific animal and present how to care for it.
• DIY Project: Wyett will choose a small DIY project related to homesteading, such as building a birdhouse or making compost. They can gather materials and create a plan to complete the project.
• Cooking with Homegrown Ingredients: If gardening is part of the plan, Wyett can explore simple recipes that use homegrown ingredients, discussing the importance of farm-to-table cooking.

Talking Points

• "Homesteading is about self-sufficiency and living sustainably. What does that mean to you?"
• "Growing your own food can be rewarding. Have you thought about what you would like to grow?"
• "Animal care is a big part of homesteading. What animals do you find interesting or would like to learn more about?"
• "DIY projects can enhance your homestead. What skills do you have that could be useful?"
• "Cooking with fresh ingredients is not only healthier but also connects you to your food source. What’s your favorite dish to make?"