ABOUT US

Children learn naturally through play and exploration.
We trust that kids are born with an innate desire to explore their world. When we step back and let them follow their curiosity, amazing things happen—they develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and deep knowledge about what truly interests them.

Mixed ages create real community.
In our co-op, a 6-year-old might write songs with a parent, a 12-year-old might play soccer with a preschooler, while a teenager interviews multiple kids throughout the day for the newsletter. These authentic relationships mirror real life and give children practice navigating the world as it actually is—full of people of all ages and abilities.

Nature connection heals and teaches.
Being outdoors in all weather helps us develop resilience, creativity, and a deep respect for the natural world. There's something magical about learning happening under open sky, where nervous systems can relax and imaginations can soar.

Your child's choices matter.
We believe in partnership with children rather than top-down instruction. When kids have real agency over their time and activities, they learn to trust themselves, develop intrinsic motivation, and become confident decision-makers.

Families arrive when they want.
We meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11am-2pm. You are free to come and go based on what works for your family. You can always count on our optional nature activity at 11:30am.

Children choose what to do and who to play with.
No one directs your child to join an activity or tells them it's time to move on. They might spend the entire day playing in the mud, or float between exploring nature, playing games, and participating in a nature activity. They are free to follow their interests while respecting our natural spaces and each other.

Adults support but never direct.
Parents are present and engaged, but we are not running the show. We may offer materials, answer questions, help resolve conflicts, and step in for safety or to protect our natural environments. We trust children to navigate their own experiences while learning to care for the spaces and people around them. Kids have a safe space to develop independence with support.

We're outside rain or shine.
Snow, rain, bright sun—we're out there unless it's truly dangerous. Families learn to dress for weather, find shade or shelter, and discover that being outside in all conditions is actually really wonderful. There's something freeing about embracing nature, no matter the weather.

Families who trust children's natural learning.
You don't need to unschool at home—many of our families use a curriculum or other homeschool methods. What matters is that you value giving children space to be themselves and follow their interests here with us at co-op.

Parents who crave community and time in nature.
It goes beyond just socialization—you want to connect with other families who share your values. You are drawn to the idea of your child (and you!) spending unhurried time outdoors with people who get you.

Kids who need space to be themselves.
Whether your child is quiet, loud, neurodivergent, or just too creative to label — they'll find their place here. Mixed ages and self-direction create room for every personality and learning style to flourish.

Anyone comfortable getting muddy and weathering storms together.
You are not afraid of dirt, rain, or your child making their own choices (even when those choices involve head-to-toe mud). You see adventure in unpredictability and know that resilience emerges through occasional discomfort.

Creating Community Together

We are structured as an LLC, but our heart is pure cooperative—we believe the best communities happen when families share in the joys and responsibilities of creating something meaningful together.

What does this look like?
Every adult contributes to the safety and wellbeing of all our children, not just their own. Some families naturally gravitate toward facilitating activities, others toward behind-the-scenes support, and many contribute simply through engaged participation and community-building. There's no checklist of requirements—just a shared understanding that everyone invests in our collective success.

As we grow, we continue to develop clear ways for families to contribute while honoring each member's strengths, schedules, and comfort levels. What matters most is that we're all committed to creating a community where every child and family thrives.

When you join Baltimore Unschooling Cooperative, you are joining a village of families who believe in mutual support, shared responsibility, and the power of community in raising confident, connected children.