Digging into the Past: Archaeology Workshop with the Southern Nevada Homeschool Association

During the last week in October 2025, thirty young students from the Southern Nevada Homeschool Association got a hands-on introduction to archaeology.  The workshop invited students to step into the role of archaeologists, uncovering how we study the past, protect cultural heritage, and piece together human history right here in Nevada.

The goal of the session was simple: to spark curiosity about what archaeology is and why it matters.

Dr. Samantha Rubinson, Southern Representative for the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office, gave a presentation where students learned that archaeology isn’t about treasure hunting or dinosaurs; it is about context, observation, and respect for the past. The students were engaged and enthusiastic!

Hands-On Discovery

Students rotated through three activity stations designed to teach them how archaeologists work and indigenous people lived. They practiced “excavation” techniques on a cookie, identified and recorded “artifacts” (chocolate chips), and drew a map of their findings using a grid system.

(image Cookie excavation with assistance from archaeologist Tara Stanko)

At the pottery station, students learned how to make clay pinch pots, which they were able to take home.

(image Archaeologist Cole White at the pinch pot station.)

(Image Learning how to build an atlatl with Dr. Rubinson and NSSP regional coordinator Stephen Denham)

Students also built their own atlatl and practiced throwing their “arrows” at a target.

These activities were designed to help them learn how archaeologists collect data and interpret clues about ancient life along with learning prehistoric lifeways.

Connecting to Nevada’s History

The workshop also highlighted Nevada’s rich archaeological record. Students learned about the state’s long history, from its earliest inhabitants to historic and contemporary time periods, and how archaeologists work to protect these fragile sites through stewardship and preservation. Not only did they learn about site preservation, but they also learned about the ways they can be involved! Our discussions helped them understand that removing artifacts or disturbing sites means losing valuable information about the past. You can take a picture, but you can’t take it home!

Curiosity and Critical Thinking

Throughout the day, our very inquisitive students asked thoughtful questions: How do archaeologists know how old something is? What happens when people find artifacts in their yard? Their curiosity showed that archaeology is more than history, it’s a way of thinking critically, solving puzzles, and working together to understand humanity’s shared story.

Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

Workshops like this remind us that archaeology is not just about studying what’s gone, but it is about connecting the past to the present. When students learn how to appreciate and protect heritage, they also learn to value the cultures that shaped their community.

We are grateful to the Southern Nevada Homeschool Association for their enthusiasm and participation. Their curiosity and care for Nevada’s past made this workshop a meaningful success!

Together, we’re helping the next generation of citizens, archaeologists, scientists, and historians see that the past isn’t buried, it is waiting to be understood.