Unique Benefits of Homeschooling on Hatteras Island
While it may not work for every family, homeschooling, especially in a post-pandemic world, gives families back their freedom to explore. Unbound by rigid schedules, parents can take an active role in their child’s education and curate a personalized experience just for them.
Among the many benefits of homeschooling, and specifically homeschooling on Hatteras Island, flexibility reigns supreme. Other benefits include the area's rich resources, natural beauty, and excellent community.
If you’re interested in homeschooling, or you’re just looking for ways to bring educational and enriching activities to your next vacation, check out our interview with a local Hatteras Island parent in this month’s blog.
In it, we cover the pros and cons of homeschooling, helpful resources for current or prospective parents, FAQs, and more!
Never miss an update on sales, special properties, or other important Brindley Beach news.
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER TODAY!
What ages can attend homeschooling on Hatteras Island?
You can homeschool any grade in North Carolina.
Can you describe a typical day in your homeschooling routine?
Our daily routine has varied over the years as our kids have aged. In the younger years, we would start the day outside exploring in nature to get energy out before completing book work. Currently, with upper elementary and middle schoolers at my house, we usually start our schooling immediately after breakfast, break for lunch and finish up early afternoon before getting outdoors for physical activity.
What resources on Hatteras Island do you use for homeschooling?
We have great libraries across the Outer Banks. We also have a lot of history in the area for the kids to learn about and have access too. We are limited in our resources on Hatteras Island as we have fewer parks and a much smaller library, but we often visit the northern beaches to access those opportunities.
What kind of curriculum or learning programs do you use?
There are so many homeschool curriculum options out there, from online classes to curriculum box sets. We have found that not every program is perfect for our kids, so we mix a combination of materials to meet the needs of each of our children. Currently, we use a mixture of online classes and textbook-style resources.
Is your program accredited the same as a traditional school?
We currently use a curriculum that is advanced and well known for setting kids up with a solid educational foundation. Once our kids start high school, we will utilize an online transcript program in combination with courses that meet the state standards. This way our kids will be able to seamlessly transition into a college program.
What are the biggest benefits for both parents and students when it comes to homeschooling?
We love the flexibility! Our school days are not governed by inclement weather or a pandemic. We are able to continue our progress in school despite those external circumstances that may arise. We are also able to take breaks for activities or trips that provide our kids with life experiences they may not otherwise get to participate in, and we can take our schooling on the road when we see fit.
How do you handle subjects like art, physical education, and music?
We often do classes with other homeschoolers in a co-op-style group. We found that parents have different gifts and are able to share those strengths with others. In that group setting our kids take courses such as art, PE, astronomy, STEM, geology, home economics, etc.
What kind of extracurricular activities are there for Homeschoolers on Hatteras Island?
Our local Parks and Rec program offers sports for our kids through the ages of 12 on Hatteras Island and there are some opportunities through ages 15 on the Northern Beaches.
We have some great music programs on the Outer Banks that our children participate in. There are several school clubs that accept homeschoolers, but we have found there are limited resources for middle schoolers.
Once kids are in high school, they can participate in dual enrollment which allows them access to the high school clubs and sports as well.
How do you think homeschooling on Hatteras Island is unique compared to other areas?
I think there are advantages and disadvantages of this area. The disadvantage would be the small number of homeschoolers means we have less homeschool resources than other areas. The advantage is that our kids live in such a unique environment and homeschooling allows them more time to experience our area.
What advice would you give to families thinking about homeschooling on Hatteras Island?
Find a group of homeschool parents that you can meet up with and swap ideas with! Having a solid community is important for a successful and fun homeschool journey.
What do you wish you’d known before you started homeschooling?
I wish someone would have told me that you do not have to recreate the public school classroom at home. If you want to recreate it, then why not send your kids to school? The beauty of homeschool is creating a unique experience for your child that they would not experience otherwise.
How has homeschooling impacted your family dynamic and lifestyle?
Homeschooling has provided us with the freedom to be flexible and travel more during the winters! Both of which are important to our family.
What do children find to be the biggest benefit of homeschooling vs traditional school?
My children have never experienced traditional schooling. The thing they worry most about in the event that they go someday is how much time they would have to spend indoors. Our children love being in nature and appreciate a lot of physical activity, so the idea of sitting inside for most of the day is less appealing to them.
What are the key differentiators among the homeschooling pods?
I think different groups have different goals in mind. We have a few groups in the area that focus on classroom style learning. While several other groups do more nature-based learning. It's great we have options in the area!
For homeschooling families who are visiting Hatteras Island, what are the best ways to continue their students’ learning?
I would suggest looking up "Outer Banks Homeschooling" on Facebook and asking questions about what activities are open to visitors for the week of their vacation. Parents are wonderful at sharing information and responding quickly. Another option is to stop by one of the National Park Offices to find out what educational activities they are offering that week.
Educational Places Your Homeschooler Will Love
One of the top benefits of homeschooling on Hatteras Island is the proximity to places like the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, the Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center, and the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Museum. Each of these locations makes a great field trip and will help you expand your student’s learning environment even while you’re on vacation.
On the northern shores, you’ll find the Wright Brothers Memorial, the wild horses of Corolla, and even more unique opportunities for your homeschool students.
The freedom to get out and explore in a hands-on learning environment is what truly separates homeschooling from public or private schools.
Links to Local Hatteras Island Homeschooling Resources
- Homeschooling in the Outer Banks
- Outer Banks Homeschool Alliance
- Dare County Libraries
- Educational Activities Outer Banks
Book Your Educational Hatteras Island Getaway Today!
Featured Property: HIR6, Shore 'Nuff
Don’t wait until spring break to book your next vacation. If you have a homeschooled child, or you’re simply interested in adding some fun and educational activities to your itinerary during your next trip, Hatteras Island is full of great opportunities for learning and adventure.
At Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales, we have excellent homes perfect for you and your student(s). With space to spread out and do lessons and loads of interesting “classrooms” right outside your door, you’re sure to spark new curiosity in everyone – young and old.
Check out our entire inventory of Hatteras Island vacation rentals and find your perfect spot. When you do, remember to book directly with Brindley Beach for the best price on your stay. Our local experts are here to assist you with everything from check-in to planning unique things to do during your visit!
We can’t wait to welcome you to our shores!
Categories: