Homeschool On The Farm

A Hands-On Learning Experience for Every Age

Rooted in real-world experience

At Hansel Hill Farm, we believe education happens best when it's rooted in real-world experience. Our Homeschool on the Farm program gives students the chance to learn by doing—caring for animals, tending the land, exploring science through nature, and finding joy in community.

We want this to be more than a field trip. We’re offering a full-season connection to the rhythms of the farm, with weekly lessons designed to align with Maryland homeschool requirements across multiple subjects: science, math, language arts, physical education, and more.

Our Fall Session

This 10-week program runs once a week, from the first week of September through the third week of November. Each session includes direct instruction, hands-on application, and free play to build both skills and confidence.

We offer two programs:

🐝 Busy Bees

(Ages 5–10 or new to the farm)

This group focuses on foundational farm learning with a gentle, supportive structure. Kids begin with morning chores like feeding and brushing animals or weeding the garden, followed by a short lesson and a related hands-on activity—such as learning the plant life cycle and planting a seed to take home.

Offered:

  • Mondays from 10:30am–12:30pm **NOW FULL

  • Thursdays from 10:30am–12:30pm

🌿 Farmer in Training (FIT)

(For experienced learners or ages 10+)

This advanced program is for older homeschoolers or kids who have spent time on the farm. FIT students take on more complex tasks like operating the tractor, designing and building farm infrastructure, or managing the orchard. Lessons are detailed and projects often span multiple weeks to mirror real agricultural work.

Offered:

  • Mondays from 10:00am-1pm

  • Thursdays from 10:00am-1pm

Cost & Registration

Tuition is $265 per student for our next fall session. Space is limited, and sessions typically fill quickly.

Homeschool On The Farm: FAQs

  • Busy Bees is ideal for younger children or those who are new to the farm setting. It focuses on basic farm tasks, gentle hands-on lessons, and structured play. 

    FIT is better suited for older or returning students who are ready for longer, more in-depth projects like orchard care, greenhouse design, or small engine work.

  • Both programs are "drop off" programs to help foster growth and independence. Our farm also has very limited parking available, further driving this requirement. If you'd like to remain onsite, we will make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, and ask that you remain in the designated waiting areas (picnic tables by the entrance to the farm.)

  • Each day starts with a short seated lesson (about 15 minutes), followed by farm chores, hands-on learning time, and free play. The goal is to keep kids moving, engaged, and connected to the land throughout the session.

  • Yes—community is a big part of our homeschool program. Students make friends, work together on farm tasks, and enjoy unstructured time to connect and play. Many families return season after season because of the bonds their children build here.

  • Yes! We regularly host small groups for private learning days. Email us at hanselhillov@gmail.com to start planning.

    • Water bottle

    • Snack (optional)

    • Weather-appropriate clothing (they will get messy!)

    • Closed toed shoes

    • Sunscreen or bug spray if needed

  • We typically run two homeschool sessions per year—one in the spring and one in the fall. Be sure to follow us on social media or check the website for upcoming dates.

  • Please be aware that your child being able to use a port-a-potty independently is REQUIRED to attend, as we do not offer bathroom assistance, nor do we let other children help each other either.

Questions?

Email us at hanselhillov@gmail.com if you have questions about an upcoming event, want to partner with us, or need help planning your visit. We can’t wait to see you at the farm.