The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) Conference is an annual conference and convention open to the whole family. The conference features special activities for children and teens, with activities planned for two separate age groups. The children's program combines educational and entertainment programming, with skits, games, songs and crafts. Evening activities, open to the whole family, may feature guest performers from children's programs. For parents, the convention features many workshops and panels treating a range of themes related to homeschooling, such as learning styles and preschool education. As of 2011, the conference takes place in late July in The Woodlands, Texas though you should check the THSC website for up-to-date information on each year's event.
At the Home Educators Area Resources for Teaching (H.E.A.R.T.) Expo, you can receive information on a range of resources for homeschooling families. To add a social element to your homeschooling schedule, mine the expo's presentations about volunteering organizations, Boy Scout troops, music lessons, art classes, sports teams and varuiys Texas-based activities. The expo lasts for one day, giving local clubs and organizations a venue to showcase their programs. Homeschooling parents and students can visit with representatives at the various booths. Additional events include guests speakers and workshops on homeschooling-related themes. In 2010, workshops focused on creative writing and fantasy writing. Instead of admission, patrons may make donations to the H.E.A.R.T. coalition. As of 2010, the workshop was held in Hurst, Texas in late April.
During Texas Capitol Days, homeschooled students gather at the Texas Capitol building to learn about state governance and the legislative process. Presented by the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC), the event is held once a month, from March through May, as of 2011. In the morning, THSC representatives teach the students using skits and other engaging activities. In the afternoon, the group enters the Capitol building, where they meet with legislators. At the end of the day, the students participate in a short workshop for review and discussion of the day's activities. To participate in the program, all children must be accompanied by adult chaperones.