Homeschooling in The Pines

Homeschool Groups, Co-Ops, Resources, Events & Educational Opportunities in Moore County, NC

Whether you’re just beginning your homeschooling journey or you’ve been homeschooling for years, The Pines offers a growing network of support, educational resources, co-ops, extracurricular activities, and family-friendly programs. This page is designed to help homeschooling families in Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Carthage, Robbins, Vass, Cameron, Whispering Pines and throughout Moore County connect with local opportunities and discover events specifically geared toward homeschool students.

From co-ops and support groups to STEM programs, sports, arts, field trips, testing resources, and educational enrichment, you’ll find valuable information to help your family thrive.

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Homeschool Groups in The Sandhills

Homeschool groups can be one of the most valuable parts of the homeschooling journey, giving families opportunities to build friendships, share resources, participate in field trips, join co-ops, and connect with others walking a similar path. Across the Sandhills, homeschool groups offer support, encouragement, social opportunities, and enriching experiences for both students and parents—helping create a strong sense of community along the way.

Homeschool Groups List

Christian Home Educators of the Sandhills (CHES)

Christian Home Educators of the Sandhills (CHES)
A local homeschool support organization serving homeschooling families in Moore County and surrounding areas.

Heritage Cooperative

A homeschool cooperative offering educational and enrichment opportunities for participating families

H.I.K.E. – Homeschoolers Inspiring Kids to Explore

H.I.K.E. (Homeschoolers Inspiring Kids to Explore) is a homeschool-centered outdoor community for families in Moore County and nearby areas. We’re simply homeschool families exploring the outdoors together, building connections, and enjoying nature side by side. There are no attendance requirements, no pressure to participate in everything, and no expectation beyond showing up as you are. Through simple group hikes and nature-based meetups, H.I.K.E. offers families a chance to connect, explore, and enjoy the outdoors together.

Hope in the Sandhills (HOPE)

A member-supported homeschool organization offering educational opportunities, community connections, field trips, activities, and support for homeschooling families.

Moore Christian Homeschholers Band App

A Christian homeschool community that primarily communicates through the Band App and offers fellowship, activities, support, and educational opportunities.

Sandhills Friends

Sandhills Friends is a Moore County community focused on bringing families together through connection, support, and shared experiences. With a mission centered on building community, they help families discover resources, friendships, and opportunities to learn and grow together. From local events and activities to family-focused support, Sandhills Friends is creating meaningful connections across the Sandhills.

Wild & Free of the Pines

A local homeschool community connecting families through book clubs, nature hikes, field trips, and moms’ nights out. Inspired by the Wild + Free philosophy, the group encourages adventure, freedom, and wonder-filled learning experiences for children and families.

Events for Homeschoolers

Events

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Today

Alternative education / blended or hybrid programs (that extends behind age 5 years)

Alternative education, blended learning, and hybrid programs can be a great fit for families looking for added flexibility and support in their homeschool journey beyond the early years. These programs may combine at-home learning with classroom instruction, enrichment opportunities, academic support, or part-time attendance, giving students and families more options to create an educational path that fits their needs, goals, and learning styles.
ProgramAbout
Garden MontessoriMontessori-inspired educational opportunities focused on independence, hands-on learning, and individualized development.
TimbernookNature-based learning experiences that encourage outdoor play, exploration, creativity, and child-led discovery.
Lady Bug FarmFarm-based educational experiences that combine agriculture, nature studies, and hands-on learning.
Wander and RootOutdoor and experiential learning programs designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and connection with nature.
Connect AcademyA Moore County Schools virtual learning option offering an alternative educational pathway for eligible students.
3 Roots CenterProvides educational enrichment, community learning opportunities, and alternative educational experiences.
STARS Charter Virtual Connect AcademyA tuition-free online public school option for North Carolina students in grades 4–9, offering flexible learning, certified teachers, individualized support, and parent involvement while allowing students to learn from home.
DIRT Outdoor School (in Robbins)Offers a unique nature-based learning experience in Robbins, NC, where children learn through outdoor exploration, hands-on activities, and nature immersion. Designed for ages 3-8, DIRT encourages creativity, independence, teamwork, and a love for the outdoors through forest adventures, animal care, science, art, and experiential learning—all under the open sky.
Sandhills Classical Christian a la carteAllows homeschool and private-school students in grades 7–12 to enroll in individual middle and high school courses without attending full-time. Students can choose from subjects such as math, science, literature, history, Bible, Spanish, fine arts, and electives while remaining part of their current educational program.
Covenant Preparatory School Offers a Classical Christian hybrid education model that combines classroom learning with homeschooling. Students attend classes several days each week while parents remain active partners in their child’s education at home, providing flexibility, academic structure, and a family-centered approach to learning.

HomeSchool Friendly Farms

Local farms offer homeschool families wonderful hands-on learning opportunities that bring lessons to life. From farm tours and animal encounters to gardening, seasonal events, and agricultural education, homeschool-friendly farms give students a chance to explore nature, food systems, science, and life on the farm in a fun and memorable way.

Terrace Ridge Farm A local farm offering educational opportunities and outdoor learning experiences. Features: Farm visits, Agricultural education, Indoor meeting space available (contact farm for availability)

Star Ridge Aquatics

Offers outdoor educational experiences and opportunities for homeschool gatherings. Features: outdoor gathering space
Open to the public, Nature and aquatic learning opportunities

Educational Philosophies & Learning Styles

Every homeschool family learns differently. Many local groups and programs support a variety of educational approaches.
ProgramAbout
Charlotte MasonProvides curriculum, resources, and support based on the Charlotte Mason philosophy, emphasizing living books, nature study, good habits, and family-style learning for homeschool families.
Classical Education- Classical ConversationsA Christian homeschool program that combines classical education, parent-led learning, and local community support to help families homeschool from kindergarten through high school.
Eclectic HomeschoolingA flexible homeschool approach that combines elements from multiple educational philosophies and curricula, allowing families to create a customized learning experience that fits their child’s unique needs and interests.
Montessori MethodProvides Montessori-inspired curriculum, resources, and parent support designed to help homeschool families create hands-on, child-led learning experiences at home.
Sequential LearningA homeschool spelling program based on the Orton-Gillingham approach that teaches spelling through word patterns and word families, helping students build strong spelling and grammar skills through daily practice and review.
Spiral LearningA nonprofit organization that provides education, research, and resources focused on sensory processing and sensory integration, helping families, educators, and therapists better support children with sensory differences.
Theory-Based Learning
Traditional School-at-Home
Unit-Focused Learning
Unit Studies
Unschooling
Waldorf EducationProvides Waldorf-inspired homeschool curriculum, mentoring, training, and resources that focus on nurturing the whole child through creativity, hands-on learning, nature, and age-appropriate education.
World Schooling

Local Programming & Resources

Local programs and community resources can add so much to the homeschool experience by offering families opportunities to learn, explore, and connect beyond the home. From educational workshops, library programs, clubs, and enrichment classes to support services, special events, and family-friendly community resources, these offerings help homeschool students grow academically, socially, and creatively while building connections close to home.

Partners for Children and Families (Carthage)

Offers resources for families including: Free lending library
Educational support materials, Family programs and workshops

Sandhills Regional Library System

Moore County Library is a valuable resource for homeschooling families in Moore County and the Sandhills, offering free access to books, audiobooks, research materials, educational programs, digital resources, and lifelong learning opportunities for all ages. As part of the Sandhills Regional Library System, families can explore story times, reading programs, online learning tools, and a wide variety of materials to support homeschool lessons, independent study, and enrichment at home.

Moore County Library locations include:

  • Moore County Public Library
  • Page Memorial Library
  • Pinebluff Library
  • Robbins Library
  • Vass Library

Southern Pines Public Library

Offers: Educational programming, Reading initiatives
Community activities, Learning resources for homeschool families

STEM Programs for Homeschool Students

STEM programs give homeschool students exciting hands-on opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in creative and engaging ways. From robotics, coding, and engineering activities to science experiments, nature studies, and problem-solving challenges, these programs help students build critical thinking skills, spark curiosity, and discover new interests through real-world learning experiences
Robotics ProgramsHands-on opportunities to explore engineering, programming, teamwork, and problem-solving. Swift Robotics also a great place to have a birthday party!
Moore County Airport ProgramsEducational aviation experiences introducing students to aerospace, aviation careers, and STEM learning. Young Eagles
N Zone SportsPhysical education opportunities, team sports, and athletic development programs for homeschool students.
Safari ScansInteractive wildlife education programs featuring live animal encounters, hands-on learning experiences, and engaging presentations for homeschool groups, schools, libraries, and community events.

Educational Support Services

Educational support services in Moore County help homeschool families with tutoring, academic support, and personalized learning guidance.

The Connection Corner

The Connection Corner is a welcoming homeschool and family resource in Downtown Southern Pines offering classes, workshops, and small groups designed to help children learn, grow, and connect. With programs focused on mindfulness, movement, creativity, and social-emotional development, it’s a wonderful local space for families looking for enrichment, community, and meaningful learning experiences.

The Relatable Learner

Provides personalized educational support and tutoring services. Offers educational consulting, support, and individualized learning assistance.

Achiever’s Academies

Offers academic support, tutoring, and educational enrichment services.

Extracurriculars

Extracurricular opportunities in Moore County help homeschool students learn, connect, and grow beyond the classroom.
OrganizationAbout
NC 4-H Programs4-H offers opportunities in: Leadership, Agriculture, Public speaking, Science projects, Community service, Life skills development
The Connection CornerA homeschool resource center in Southern Pines offering classes, clubs, enrichment programs, field trips, and social opportunities for homeschooling families. Their goal is to provide meaningful connections, educational support, and engaging experiences that help homeschool students learn, grow, and build community.
Eleve Ballet AcademyOffers classical ballet instruction for children, teens, adults, and homeschool students in Moore County. With a focus on confidence, creativity, and strong ballet technique, Élevé provides a welcoming environment where dancers can grow their skills, perform, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the art of ballet.

Arts Programs

These organizations provide creative opportunities through visual arts, performance arts, music, and enrichment classes.

The Carolina Philharmonic Junior Orchestra

A wonderful opportunity for homeschool students interested in music, this youth strings program offers violin, viola, cello, and bass instruction for beginners through advanced players, along with performance opportunities throughout the year in connection with the Carolina Philharmonic.

The Connection Corner

The Connection Corner in Southern Pines is a homeschool-friendly resource center offering classes, clubs, enrichment programs, and social opportunities for children, teens, and families. With options like homeschool classes, science club, kindness club, mindfulness-based programs, and creative enrichment, it’s a wonderful place for homeschool families to learn, connect, and build community in a supportive environment.

Encore Center

Offers homeschool arts immersion classes, theater, music, dance, and visual arts programs that help students develop creativity, confidence, and performance skills in a supportive environment.

Robin Lynne Frye

Discover the joy of music with Robin Lynne Frye, an accomplished professional musician and experienced voice and piano instructor based in Pinehurst, NC. Robin brings more than 25 years of teaching experience and 30+ years of professional performing experience to students of all skill levels—from beginners to advanced and professional musicians.

Robin offers piano lessons for all ages and voice lessons for ages 15 and up, with younger students considered by audition. Her supportive, individualized approach helps students strengthen technique, build confidence and develop a lifelong appreciation for music.

Serving students throughout Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Moore County and surrounding areas.

Ingaboo Books

Ingaboo Books brings stories, imagination and a little adventure to the Sanford community. This local business combines a love of books and storytelling with creative experiences and special events for the community—including seasonal happenings and family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re a book lover, looking for something unique to do, or simply enjoy supporting local businesses, Ingaboo Books is worth discovering.

Athletics & Sports

Athletics and sports can be a wonderful part of the homeschool experience, giving students opportunities to stay active, build confidence, develop teamwork, and learn new skills. From recreational leagues and homeschool-friendly sports programs to martial arts, dance, and fitness activities, these opportunities help children grow physically, socially, and emotionally while having fun and making connections in the community.

Moore/MCHA Black Marlins Swim Team

For information: christine.Hicks66@gmail.com Swimming opportunities for homeschool students and youth athletes.

N Zone Sports

N Zone Sports Pinehurst offers youth sports programs for children in the Pinehurst area, with leagues and activities such as flag football, soccer, cheerleading, T-ball, basketball, and multi-sport programs. It’s a great option for homeschool families looking for recreational sports, skill-building, teamwork, and active social opportunities in a fun community setting.

OM Dance

OM Grown Dance Studios in Aberdeen offers recreational, homeschool, and pre-professional dance classes for a variety of ages and skill levels. Their programs focus on strong technique, creativity, confidence, and a welcoming environment for dancers of all abilities—making them a great option for homeschool families looking to add movement, artistry, and fun to their wee

STARS Dance

STARS Dance offers affordable afterschool dance classes for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade, including Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Aerial, Color Guard, and Cheer. Open to all students, including homeschool and virtual learners, the program provides quality instruction, performance opportunities, and a fun way for kids to build confidence, skills, and a love of dance.email cjones@starscharter.org with questions.

Recreational Centers

Recreational centers can be a great resource for homeschool families, offering opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and skill-building outside the home. From sports, fitness classes, and open gym time to youth programs, camps, and community activities, rec centers give students fun ways to stay active, try new things, and connect with others in the community.
OrganizationAbout
Moore County Parks & Recreation
Homeschool Open GymA popular opportunity for homeschool students to participate in physical activity, social interaction, and recreational programming.
Sandhills GymnasticsOffers gymnastics, tumbling, cheer, fitness, and movement classes for children of all ages, providing homeschool families with opportunities for physical education, skill development, and social interaction.

Homeschooling Hubs

Local libraries are one of the best free resources available to homeschool families. From books and online learning tools to story times, teen programs, and research support, they provide valuable educational opportunities, enrichment, and community connections.

Sandhills Regional Library System


Moore County Library / Sandhills Regional Library System is a wonderful free resource for homeschool families, offering access to books, audiobooks, online research tools, e-books, and educational programs for children and teens. With locations throughout Moore County plus a bookmobile, it’s a great place for homeschoolers to support reading, research, and lifelong learning while taking advantage of story times, special programs, and other community resources

Southern Pines Public Library

Families often meet for: Study groups, Book clubs, educational workshops, Social activities, Resource sharing

Homeschool Testing & Other Resources

Homeschool families in North Carolina are required to maintain records and administer nationally standardized achievement tests annually. Additional local testing resources and opportunities will be added as they become available.

OrganizationAbout
North Carolinians for Home Education (NCHE)NCHE provides: Legal information, Annual testing guidance, Homeschool conferences, Curriculum resources, Parent support, Statewide advocacy
Sandhills Friends Curriculum ExchangeFamilies regularly participate in: Curriculum buy/sell/trade opportunities, Resource sharing, Quarterly homeschool discussions, Parent networking events

Homeschool Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering helps students gain real-world experience while giving back to the community
OrganizationAbout
Food bank
Animal sheltersCaring Hearts for Canines
Community gardens
Local eventsCheck out The Pines Times
Libraries
Senior centers
Environmental organizations
Habitat for HumanityReStore must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers ages 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult and have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Volunteers ages 16 and 17 years old must have a ReStore waiver signed by a parent or guardian but may volunteer on their own.

Local Field Trip Ideas

Field trips are one of the best parts of homeschooling, turning everyday learning into real-life experiences. From farms, museums, and nature preserves to local businesses, historic sites, libraries, and community events, field trips help students explore new interests, make connections, and bring lessons to life in fun and meaningful ways.

  • Nature & Science
  • Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
  • Reservoir Park
  • DIRT Outdoor School
  • History & Culture
  • House in the Horseshoe
  • Shaw House
  • Tufts Archives
  • Transportation & Engineering
  • Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway
  • Agriculture & Farm Learning
  • Local farms
  • Ag centers
  • Seasonal pumpkin patches
  • Arts & Performance
  • Theater programs
  • Galleries
  • Pottery studios
  • Day Trips
  • North Carolina Zoo
  • Airborne & Special Operations Museum
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

HomeSchool Market & Store

COMING SOON!

Homeschooling in North Carolina FAQ

What age do I have to start homeschooling legally in North Carolina?

North Carolina’s compulsory attendance law begins at age 7. Families are not required to file a Notice of Intent to Homeschool before their child turns 7 years old.

Do I need to file paperwork before my child turns 7?

No. Families may homeschool younger children without filing a Notice of Intent. Registration is only required once a child reaches compulsory attendance age.

How do I start homeschooling in North Carolina?

When you are ready to begin homeschooling a child age 7 or older, you must file a Notice of Intent with the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE). This officially establishes your homeschool with the state.

Where do I file my Notice of Intent?

Families can file online through the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education website.

Yes. North Carolina recognizes homeschools as non-public schools and provides clear guidelines for operating a homeschool legally.

Where can I learn more about North Carolina homeschool laws?

The North Carolinians for Home Education (NCHE) website provides excellent information on getting started, legal requirements, recordkeeping, testing, and other frequently asked questions.

Where can I find answers to other homeschooling questions?

Visit the NCHE Homeschool FAQ for information about attendance records, testing requirements, graduation, transcripts, extracurricular activities, and more.

Helpful Resources:

Yes. North Carolina is considered one of the more homeschool-friendly states and allows parents to legally homeschool their children while meeting state requirements.

Do I need to register my homeschool in North Carolina?

Yes. Families must file a Notice of Intent to operate a homeschool with the state when beginning homeschooling.

Are homeschool students required to take tests?

North Carolina requires homeschool students to take a nationally standardized achievement test annually and maintain those records.

Are there homeschool groups in Moore County?

Yes. Moore County offers several homeschool support groups, co-ops, and organizations including HOPE, Sandhills Friends, Moore Christian Homeschoolers, CHES, and Heritage Cooperative.

What homeschool activities are available in Pinehurst and Southern Pines?

Homeschool students can participate in arts programs, sports, STEM activities, library programs, 4-H clubs, field trips, volunteer opportunities, and educational enrichment programs throughout Moore County.

Are there homeschool sports programs in Moore County?

Yes. Opportunities include N Zone Sports, swimming programs, recreation leagues, and other homeschool-friendly athletic programs.

Where can homeschool families meet other homeschoolers in Moore County?

Many families connect through local homeschool groups, libraries, co-ops, community events, educational programs, and homeschool activities listed on The Pines Times.

What educational philosophies are represented in local homeschool communities?

Families in Moore County utilize many approaches including Classical Education, Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Waldorf, Unschooling, Traditional School-at-Home, Unit Studies, and Eclectic Homeschooling.

How can I find homeschool events in Moore County?

Check The Pines Times Homeschool Events Calendar regularly for classes, field trips, workshops, social gatherings, educational programs, and family activities.

Can organizations submit homeschool-friendly events?

Absolutely! Educational organizations, businesses, museums, farms, churches, libraries, and activity providers are encouraged to submit homeschool-friendly events to The Pines Times calendar. Submit Here

Looking for More information based on Family Interests? Check out these additional pages:

Summer CampsOutdoor Play
Vacation Bible SchoolMuseums
Babies and ToddlersParents in The Pines
Kids in The PinesUS Kids Golf
Teens in The Pines

About This Homeschool Resource/Local Expert Contributor

Adrienne is pictures on the right

Homeschooling in The Pines was created to help families in Moore County and the Sandhills discover homeschool-friendly classes, educational programs, support groups, extracurricular activities, and local learning opportunities all in one place.

This resource was developed with support and guidance from Adrienne Mazzetti, MS, OTR/L, CAPS, CDP, ECHM, an occupational therapist with more than 14 years of experience supporting individuals and families across the lifespan. Adrienne’s professional background includes early intervention, rehabilitation, dementia care, home accessibility modifications, and family-centered support.

Adrienne is passionate about helping families access resources, build meaningful community connections, and create opportunities for lifelong learning. She is the inventor of the Therapeutic Interactive Doll System (U.S. Patent Publication No. 2024/0091656 A1) and holds multiple specialty certifications, including Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Executive Certification in Home Modifications, and a Playmaker University Certification through the Life is Good Playmaker Project.

In addition to her professional work, Adrienne serves as Co-Chair of the Family Support Network of North Carolina Advisory Council, has collaborated with the Engaged Brains Project, and is a certified therapy dog handler through Love On a Leash. She is also the founder of Accessibility Solutions Now LLC, Southern Pines Coffee Company, and Sandhills Friends, with a focus on strengthening community connections, family support, accessibility, and educational engagement.

We are grateful for Adrienne’s (pictured on the right side) support in helping make this homeschool resource more useful for local families seeking educational opportunities, enrichment, support services, and community connections in The Pines.