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Hannah Wagenhoffer at Night at the Museum 2025.
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Hannah Wagenhoffer, a 13-year-old homeschool student, brought her spinning wheel and showed guests how raw wool becomes yarn at the 3rd annual Night at the Museum event.
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The Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach was buzzing with energy on Monday, April 29, as homeschool students from across the Southeast transformed the auditorium into a hands-on showcase of their talents and passions. 

Hosted by Southeast Manitoba Homeschool Connections, the third annual Night at the Museum gave homeschoolers a chance to share topics they’ve poured time and curiosity into—whether it’s dinosaurs, dog training, spinning wool, or dirt biking. 

Learning by teaching 

The event is meant to highlight the diverse interests among homeschooled students. 

One of those students was 13-year-old Hannah Wagenhoffer, who brought her spinning wheel and showed guests how raw wool becomes yarn—starting from shearing the sheep, all the way to washing, carding, spinning, and dyeing the final product. 

“I started doing this because I wanted a lamb,” she said. “Then I had to figure out what to do with the wool, and I just really liked the process.” 

Wagenhoffer said she’s been learning how to crochet too, enjoying how it brings the whole journey full circle. 

From backyard to obstacle course 

Another student, Kenzie Dyck, shared her journey of training her dog Sophie in agility. Using homemade and store-bought equipment, she’s been working on teaching her pup how to jump hurdles, run through tunnels, and weave between poles. 

“She’s still learning, but she loves the tunnel the most,” Dyck said with a smile. “We’re working on weaving now.” 

Although unsure if Sophie will ever compete, Dyck said it’s been a fun and rewarding experience, and she hopes to keep improving their teamwork.

A female middle-school student stands beside her agility dog training display.
Kenzie Dyck, shared her journey of training her dog Sophie in agility.

More than just a school project 

Parent Shauna Wagenhoffer, whose three children took part in the evening, said it was her family’s first time attending Night at the Museum. 

“I think it’s such a great opportunity,” she said. “When kids are learning something and then get the chance to teach it to someone else, it really deepens their understanding.” 

She added that events like this also build community among homeschooling families. 

“It’s great to gather and see what others are doing—you realize you’re not doing this alone.” 

Projects ranged from historical exhibits to music, crafts, sports, and science. Some students set up interactive displays, while others did live demonstrations or answered questions from curious visitors. 

With a strong response from the homeschool community and the general public, parent Kristi Brandt says there will definitely be a fourth Night at the Museum. 

“Absolutely. This is our favourite event throughout the year, aside from our holiday program. Hands down, we love this one.” 

-With files from Carly Koop.

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