What makes us different than every other co-op?

Wild Ones Collective is a nature-based homeschool co-op rooted in the rhythms of the seasons, the wild beauty of Maine, and the belief that children learn best through meaningful, real-world experiences. We are an outdoor group and spend roughly 90% of our time outside—in all climates—embracing sun, snow, wind, and rain as part of the learning journey. Our students build not only knowledge, but also resilience, confidence, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Serving families with children from Pre-K through high school, we offer multi-age learning opportunities that blend Maine studies, survival skills, history, art, and science into a dynamic, community-driven experience. Whether splashing through tide pools, exploring local forts, or demonstrating their projects at a science fair, our students learn by doing—side by side, across ages.

What Makes Us Unique

Outdoor Education & Survival Skills

Our students gain confidence and practical life skills through hands-on instruction in fire starting, shelter building, navigation, first aid, and water purification—taught at age-appropriate levels with safety and skill-building in mind.

Living Maine History

From nature walks to historical adventures, we explore our state’s rich past through field trips to Maine forts like Popham and Fort Western, and interactive seasonal learning woven into every unit.

Multi-Age Seasonal Field Trips

We schedule intentional, immersive field trips that reflect the season’s themes, helping students connect what they’re learning to the world around them.

Beloved Seasonal Traditions

Our year is anchored by community-wide events that allow students to showcase their growth and creativity, including our:

• Maker’s Market
• Living Wax Museum
• Science Fair
• Art Show
• Dances

Clubs and Leadership Opportunities

Students are encouraged to explore their interests and build community through optional clubs and committees, such as:

• 4-H
• Dance Planning Committee
• Yearbook Club

At Wild Ones Collective, we believe education is more than books and worksheets—it’s curiosity sparked in the forest, history brought to life, and the joy of learning side by side in a supportive, engaged community.

If you’re looking for a homeschool group that honors nature, celebrates creativity, and values hands-on learning for all ages, we invite you to come grow with us.

What we are learning in our 2025/2026 year:

• September: Maine History and Apples
  • Planned field trips include Fort Popham, Vaughan Woods, Fort Western, and Kent’s Hill Apple Orchard
• October: Maine’s Indigenous History and Preserving Food
  • Planned field trips include Ricker Hill Orchards, Redington Museum and Fort Halifax, nature trails
• November: History, Maker’s Market, and Thanksgiving Potluck
  • Planned field trips include Camden-Rockport Historical Society
• December: Helping Our Community
  • Planned field trips and experiences include Chewonki, a wildlife rehab, and a local food pantry
• January: Space
  • Planned field trips include Blueberry Pond, nature trails, the Challenger Space Center, and a full moon bonfire and nature walk
• February: Survival Skills, Maine Mammals, and the annual Science Fair
  • Planned field trips and experiences include winter survival skills expert, marine mammal rescue, Maine trappers, science fair, ice fishing
• March: Art
  • Planned field trips include Bates Art Museum, annual art show, maple syrup experience, nature trails
• April: Farms, Spring, Awakening
  • Planned field trips include a greenhouse tour, Stonecipher Farm, Pineland Farms, L.C. Bates
• May: Weather
  • Planned field trips include WGME Portland, kite flying, Gray Weather Station
• June: Water and Survival Skills
  • Planned field trips include waterfalls, beach trips, and water safety
• AND SO MUCH MORE! Come join us as we explore our beautiful state, learn from nature, and learn important life skills.