Nature - Inspired Education

Hemlock Hill is a hybrid forest school inspired program for homeschool families in the Dalton, PA and surrounding areas.

Our mission is to provide the homeschooled child a unique learning environment immersed in nature. We aim to utilize a child's innate desire to explore their surroundings and empower their voice. It is our goal to create nourishing friendships and foster a lifelong love for learning and understanding of nature.

We Learn the S.N.A.I.L way!

At Hemlock Hill Academy we believe that a well rounded experience includes:

  • With the use of the Scientific Connections through Inquiry curriculum and hands on activities, our students are introduced to applying the scientific method in a fun and engaging way. Involving children in research can be highly beneficial for their cognitive and emotional development.

  • Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Through nature studies, we are able to make connections to the local forests, watersheds, plants, animals, fungi, and more! Concentrating on seasonal topics helps children feel more in tune with nature.

  • Our students create artwork to display their understanding of the current Science or Nature topics. Using this method inspires a deeper understanding of the subject. Regular art projects also increase creativity and exploration of color, shapes, and mediums.

  • In a forest school setting children are encouraged to take healthy risks and gain confidence. Our students learn personal responsibility of gear and getting dressed appropriately for the weather. We build in public speaking to classmates that helps to form an individual “voice” among the group.

  • When children are given the opportunity to be involved in community tasks it builds pride, confidence, and value. Our students are learning life skills such as cooking, weaving, team building, foraging, knot tying, catching crayfish, fire building, and more!

  • What is hybrid education?

    Our hybrid academy supports your homeschooling journey while providing for 1/3 of the 180 day academic requirement in PA. Children get to be a part of a “school - like” environment and be around peers.

  • Why do we need this program?

    It takes a village. And we’re here to offer a support system to homeschoolers and a community of families who value home education.

  • What can nature offer?

    Studies show that spending time in nature increases motivation, concentration, confidence, knowledge of the natural environment, and awareness of others.

  • What subjects do you cover?

    Hemlock Hill Academy focuses on Science, Nature, Art, Independence, and Life Skills that we have coined our SNAIL learning philosophy. We learn outdoors as much as possible.

  • What do you mean by Life Skills?

    The children are introduced to cooking, sewing, fire starting skills, speaking in front of a group, and more!

  • How long do you spend outside?

    In the warmer months, we spend about 90% of our day outside! During the Winter, we are outdoors as much as possible while being safe, that could be as much as 70% depending on the temperatures.

  • Are you secular?

    Yes, Hemlock Hill Academy is a non-religious program. We believe it is the responsibility of a child’s family to teach personalized religious beliefs at home.

Hemlock Hill Academy has many spaces to explore. Take a peek at what we have to offer!

“In a world of constant change and streaming technology, I find solace in the forest where a tree remains a tree.”

— ANGIE WEILAND-CROSBY