Events
We will meet for family events on the third Tuesday of each month for September, October, November, February, March, April and May.
These events are a benefit for families registered with our co-op and are highly encouraged. While there are some entrance/ticket fees associated, when possible, the co-op will negotiate for the best rates possible and has chosen events we believe to be “budget friendly.”
Events for 2023-2024 will be September 19th, October 17th, November 21st, February 20th, March 19th, April 16th, and May 21st
September: Back to School Photos
Homeschoolers should have back to school photos too! We may not be getting on a yellow bus, but we’re diving into learning just the same. This low-key event will be at Gilmore Park in Holly Hill and will feature a back to school photo opportunity complete with a cute wooden desk, stack of books, and of course the obligatory red apple. There is no cost for this event. This event is open to co-op members and their immediate family only.
October: Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Come and participate in a fabulous family day a a local farm and get lost with your crew in a corn maze. If getting turned around is not your cup of tea, you can go on a hayride, jump into the corn boxes, pick out a pumpkin, or just relax while your family enjoys the fresh air. Costs for this event is the entrance ticket for $10/adult, $6 (child 3-12 years of age), and children 2 and under are free. This event is open to the local homeschool community. So, while our group enjoys the farm we’ll also get to meet and interact with other families who share our passion for at home learning.
November: Friendsgiving
Bring a dish or treat for sharing and we’ll meet up at a private venue for a celebration of friends and a time of Thanksgiving. Co-op participants will have a chance to entertain us all with a “Show & Tell” style opportunity. Let your kids wrangle a turkey for fun photos, join in on games and competitions… face painting, art making, and freestyle play for all - this is an event your family will want to be sure to attend.
February: Wheel Party
Come on over to Folk Park, in Holly Hill, with a scooter, roller blades, or skates and take on an obstacle course featuring opportunities to roll fast and slow, duck, turn, brake, and more. There’ll be yard games (and prizes) available for the older kids. For our tiniest co-op members we’ll have a separate area with mini rolling cars and outdoor manipulatives. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy some complimentary hot chocolate (unless it’s hot, then we’ll have popsicles)! There is no cost and this event is open to extended family of co-op members.
March: Nature Hike
Co-op families will meet at the beginning of the Limestone nature trail at Santee State Park to participate in a leisurely walk around the 1-mile loop. Scavenger hunt lists will be provided for those interested, and afterwards, there is a playground for the littles and lots of tables for picnic lunches. Everyone will enjoy time together in a common space overlooking Lake Marion. The cost to enter the state park is paid directly to Santee State Park and is $3/adult, $1/child (6-15 years), and kids 5 and under are free. This event is open to extended family of co-op members.
April: Hickory Bluff Berry Farm
Co-op families will gather at one of our local gems: Hickory Bluff Berry Farm. We’ll spread out into the fields to partake in a “u-pick” adventure and then create onsite complimentary strawberry shortcake. Yum! There are tables for your packed lunch and lounging, a play area, and a wonderful market and garden area stocked with great local finds. Visit the chickens and bunnies and stock up on eggs, jams, and ice-cream sandwiches! The littles will enjoy an onsite story time, elementary and middle school kids can use the many yard games available. There is no cost to come to the farm - you would only pay for the berries your family picks (if you choose to pick anything at all) directly to the farm. This event is open to extended family of co-op members. The only cost is if you plan to make any personal purchases.
May: Teddy Bear Picnic
Everyone grab your favorite stuffed animal, pack a picnic lunch, and head to Gilmore park. Inspired by Jimmy Kennedy’s “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic,” there will be themed crafts, coloring contests, and games. Enjoy live music while you eat, join in for the teddy bear parade, listen to teddy bear stories at a revolving “circle time” and take a family picture with our life-size teddy bear! With events and games planned for students in all age groups (including 12+), this will be a fun event for everyone in the family. This event is open to anyone in the homeschool community. It is a FREE event, but registration is still required and priority will be given to co-op members. This final event is a great way to celebrate the end of the Root & Arrow “school season” and to invite other homeschool families to come find out more about who we are.