Cola City Homeschoolers

Parenting Teens: The Connection Between Technology & Anxiety
2024-05-11 10:00 - 11:30 UTC
Parenting Teens in a Smartphone World
by Scholarship Gold
Saturday, May 11th @ 10am
FREE — Parents
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Scholarship Gold is excited to sponsor this event, bringing our favorite expert, Dr. Scott Hammontree, to share his insight into the unique challenges to teens’ mental health, especially in connection with their smartphone & social media usage.
His engaging delivery and fact-based tips will equip you to help your teen protect and improve their mental health. And he will provide solid tips to help parents protect their teen’s mental well-being as they navigate the steps towards adulthood. Dr Hammontree is, by far, the expert we most trust and admire in this field and we are thrilled to bring his expertise to you.
There is no cost to attend but you do need to register. Save your spot today!
Register HERE for this virtual workshop.

Community Litter Pick-up
2024-05-25 09:00 - 12:00
Community Litter Pick-up
by Keep Midlands Beautiful
Saturday, May 25th @ 9am
FREE — Teens/Parents
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
This month’s cleanup will address Town of Irmo’s Rawl’s Creek on May 25, 2023, from 9 a.m. – 12 noon! We will meet at Irmo Town Hall located on 7300 Woodrow St, Irmo, SC 29063. We will email you prior to the cleanup to verify the meeting location and attendance.
Keep the Midlands Beautiful started the Spotless Service Saturday initiative to address highly littered areas with monthly cleanups hosted by our team! Cleanup locations rotate each month in the areas KMB serves – Richland County, Lexington County, the City of Columbia and the Town of Irmo. This event grew from a collaboration with the USC Service Saturday program. All residents, both individuals and groups, are encouraged to join the KMB team and USC students in these monthly cleanups.
This is a great volunteer opportunity for teens, parents, and kids of appropriate age. REGISTER HERE.

Let Grow Club: Sesqui
2024-06-11 10:00 - 12:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: Sesqui
by Cola City Homeschoolers
TUESDAY, June 11, 10 am-noon
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the summer to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re switching up to Tuesdays at 10 am for June/July.
Let Grow Play Club TUESDAY 10 am-12pm–thru June/July
This Week’s Location: Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
Activities include canoe/kayak/paddle boat rentals, walking trails and splash pad. Fees for parking and rentals.
Look for Angela Hardy to greet you–and facilitate introductions and chaperone locations to assist supervising our youth activities.
Call/text 803-743-8802.

For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Sign up here so we can keep get an estimate of attendees and send you meet-up reminders:

Parent NameNote: Please include the name of the adult contact for this registration

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Student Participant Name/AgePlay Club is geared for participants age 8 and up (3rd grade and up). Use the plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participants. Younger Sibling Name/AgeList any additional participants under age 8 who will be attending the playground with an adult chaperone. Use plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participants.

Homeschool Expo 2024
2024-06-28 12:00 - 2024-06-29 16:00
Homeschool Expo 2024
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Saturday, June 29 from 10am-4pm
Open to the Public
Mark your calendars, save the date!!
More details coming soon about the Midlands Homeschool Expo and Used Booksale.
Consignment sale will start on Friday, June 28th.
Vendor Hall and Consignment Sale will be open on Saturday, June 29th.
Click HERE for the latest updates

Take Action SC: Teacher Workshop
2024-07-24 08:00 - 12:00
Take Action SC: Teacher Workshop
by SC DHEC
Wednesday, July 24th @8am
Parents — $10
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
SC DHEC and Take Action SC will be hosting their annual environmental educators summer workshop in two locations with an opportunity to tour the landfill in each location plus ‘hands-on’ learning labs to help you find ways to integrate environmental lessons into your everyday teaching all held from 8 am – 12 pm. This years’ experience will include:
SC DHEC educator lesson demonstrations on Natural Resources, Landfills, Energy and Circular Economy with Battery Recycling plus more from the Action for a cleaner tomorrow curriculum.
All participants will start their day with a yogurt bar and receive a copy of the newly updated “Action for a cleaner tomorrow” curriculum supplement, a Take Action SC Artic Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle, a Take Action SC insulated reusuable bag, a motherboard clipboard as well as other teacher prizes throughout the day.
Take Action SC workshop admission will be a non-refundable $10 registration fee that includes all activities and classroom materials.
Click HERE to register for this event.
This workshop will be held at Twin Chimneys Landfill at 11075 Augusta Road Honea Path, SC 29654

Take Action SC: Teacher Workshop Horry County
2024-08-07 08:00 - 12:00
Take Action SC: Teacher Workshop Horry County
by Take Action SC & SC DHEC
Wednesday, Aug 7th @8am
Parents — $10
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
SC DHEC and Take Action SC will be hosting their annual environmental educators summer workshop in two locations with an opportunity to tour the landfill in each location plus ‘hands-on’ learning labs to help you find ways to integrate environmental lessons into your everyday teaching all held from 8 am – 12 pm. This years’ experience will include:
SC DHEC educator lesson demonstrations on Natural Resources, Landfills, Energy and Circular Economy with Battery Recycling plus more from the Action for a cleaner tomorrow curriculum.
All participants will start their day with a yogurt bar and receive a copy of the newly updated “Action for a cleaner tomorrow” curriculum supplement, a Take Action SC Artic Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle, a Take Action SC insulated reusuable bag, a motherboard clipboard as well as other teacher prizes throughout the day.
Take Action SC workshop admission will be a non-refundable $10 registration fee that includes all activities and classroom materials.
August 7, 2024 will be held at Horry County Solid Waste Authority Administrative Buildings.
Register HERE.

Homeschool Hub: Ice Cream Social
2024-08-12 18:00 - 19:00 | In Person
Homeschool Hub: Ice Cream Social
by Chapin Branch Library
Monday, August 12 at 6 pm
All ages — FREE
The Chapin Branch Library has lots of great resources for homeschool families. Stop by for this social gathering to find out more and to meet/greet with fellow homeschoolers.
Location: Chapin Branch Library 129 NW Columbia Ave Chapin, SC 29036
Brainstorm ideas with the librarian about scheduling more activities to supplement your homeschool studies!
Contact, Josie Seacrist, Branch Librarian
JSeacrist@lex.lib.sc.us
PH 803.345.5479
www.lex.lib.sc.us

Homeschool Huddle: Workshop
2024-08-13 17:30 - 19:00 | In Person
Homeschool Huddle Workshop
By South Congaree Branch Library
Tuesday, August 13 at 5:30pm
Parent/Educators — FREE
This month’s topic is Homeschooling 101. Presentation about getting started homeschooling with Kim Andrysczyk. Bring your questions!
An activity will also be provided for the kiddos.
Location: South Congaree-Pine Ridge Branch Library at 200 Sunset Drive, West Columbia, SC
Contact Carol Clark, Branch Librarian
803.785.3050
CCLARK@lex.lib.sc.us

Picture Book Panel: Virtual Workshop
2024-09-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Virtual Event
Picture Book Panel: Virtual Workshop
By Cardinal Rule Press
Thursday, Sept 5 at 1 pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note: This is NOT a Cola City Event. Contact Cardinal Rule Press for more information
Tune in for this vibrant community of authors, parents, families, and friends to hear about Cardinal Rule Press’s newest children’s book Do-It-Yourself Dollhouse & how to transition back-to-school! We look forward to hearing from the author, Shannon Anderson and hope to see you there!

FACILITATOR: Nationally recognized author, publisher and speaker Maria Dismondy is dedicated to inspiring and empowering children. She has authored nine children’s books and made more than 800 speaking appearances. She lives in southeast Michigan with her husband, Dave, and their three children.
PANELIST: Shannon Anderson is an award-winning author and speaker who enjoys traveling the country for author visits and other events and conferences. She taught for 25 years at both the elementary and college level, and was named one of the Today Show’s teachers who “awed and inspired” in 2019.
Moni Ritchie Hadley, a half-Japanese military brat, bounced back and forth from the USA to Japan. Daydreaming was a favorite pastime. She is the author of the forthcoming Miso Magic (‘24), Anzu and the Art of Friendship (‘23), and The Star Festival (‘21), a 2022 Bank Street College Best Children’s Book of the Year.
Kathryn is an award-winning author/illustrator, best known for her character-building number/color book series: One, Zero, and Two. She is also the co-author of Beautiful Hands, a book about possibilities and reaching your dreams. She helps readers find creative methods to engage and connect with their students through the power of reading, art, and literature.

Mental Health Awareness: Virtual Workshop
2024-09-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event
Mental Health Awareness: Virtual Workshop
by SC Homeschooling Connection
with Butterfly Beacon
Thursday, Sept 5 at 2pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note this is a free event by SC Homeschooling Connection. Scroll down to register so we can send you the zoom link and keep an eye out for you.
The workshop will also be recorded for replay.
CLICK HERE to find out more about Butterfly Beacon.
Did you know?
Statistics show that 5000 youth ages 15 to 24 are successful every year at taking their lives. There are 12 successful youth suicides everyday. 1 is too many!
Our goal is that the wings of every youth in the B.U.T.T.E.R.F.L.Y program unfold, revealing the true beauty within themselves and the world around them. Through mindful guidance and real life education, we strive to break through the false sense of reality perpetuated by popular culture, social media, and entertainment. Our vision is to cultivate a generation of respectful, self-loving, understanding, educated, compassionate, resilient, and socially conscious youth who not only recognize their worth, but also understand the profound impact they can have on the world. A purpose only they can fulfill!

Thinking back as an adult…

Did you ever feel misunderstood as a child?
Did you feel like you didn’t fit in anywhere?
Did you ever feel like your voice didn’t matter?
Did you ever feel unsure about whether you were loved or not?
Was there ever something that you felt like you needed, but wasn’t given that could’ve changed the direction of your life?

If you did, then you know how our children are feeling, and you understand them more than you think you do. You also realize that they are dealing with so much worse because of the access at their fingertips. We must listen to what they are saying/not saying and look for any changes in their mood and attitude.
Having been bullied while struggling with feelings of low self-esteem, low self-worth and feeling misunderstood, elementary, middle and high school were hard for me. I felt like how I was feeling didn’t matter, like I didn’t matter. My experiences weren’t isolated. Many youth struggle with these same emotions every single day! Just like a Butterfly, our youth go through different stages. This 12 – week program is designed to help 6th through 12th graders (ages 12 – 18) navigate each stage of their life with love, support, patience and understanding while securing their mental, emotional and social wellbeing. We must advocate for our youth and teach them how to rise above their circumstances.
EMPOWERING YOUTH, UNLEASHING POTENTIAL
In each weekly module students will learn…

Be – how to exist daily, how to overcome suicide and find the value in themselves daily; to live
Uniquely U – that they are the sole example for themselves; they write the story for their lives
Today – to focus on the present time; to not allow their past to decide their future; growth
Tomorrow and – to plan for the future, but not dwell on it; to be prepared for what’s ahead; goals
Everyday – how to be consistent on a daily basis; what it means to stay true to oneself; integrity
Remembering to – how to learn from the past; the importance of forward movement; forgiveness
First – self-care; how to not focus on other’s opinions of them; what it means to be a priority
Love – to build an unconditional devotion to self-love; self-appreciation; self- respect; importance of
Yourself – individuality; to know and love who they are, what they stand for; morals and values

Register here to reserve your space!

Reading Intervention Training
2024-09-13 08:00 - 2024-09-14 17:00 | In Person
Reading Intervention Instructor Training
by Discovery Therapies Inc
Fri-Sat, September 13-14
Note this opportunity is NOT hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Contact Sharon at Discovery Therapies Inc for more details, 813-842-0844
www.dtiusa.org.
SIGN UP HERE for more information about the reading program and instructor training.
HAVE a STRUGGLING READER?
In 2023, 43-50% of SC students did not meet or
exceed reading expectations on the SC Ready
Reading exam. Students with disabilities scored
even lower with 78-88% of students not meeting or
exceeding reading expectations.
THERE IS HOPE!
Discovery Therapies, Inc. offers a tailored reading intervention in a small group setting to partner with homeschool families in SC. This unique approach allows families to band together and collectively help their children catch up in their reading skills.
Sign up for an informational meeting to learn more about a reading group for your child or how to train to become a reading instructor.
Training for the instructors will be September 13 and 14.
SIGN UP HERE

Virtual Workshop: College Scholarships & Financial Aid
2024-09-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event
College Scholarships & Financial Aid:
Virtual Workshop
by SC Homeschooling Connection
with Clear Vision College Counseling
Thursday, Sept 17 at 2pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note this is a free event by SC Homeschooling Connection. Scroll down to register so we can send you the zoom link and keep an eye out for you.
The workshop will also be recorded for replay.
As you’re looking ahead to college tuition costs, let’s talk about financial aid, grants, loans and scholarships. Clear Vision College Counseling is here to help us understand the various options to consider.
Register here to reserve your space!

Parenting Teens Through Launch Anxiety- Webinar
2024-09-26 02:00 - 15:00
Parenting Teens Through Launch Anxiety
by Roya Dedeaux
Thursday, Sept 26th @2pm
Parents — FREE Virtual
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
30 minute webinar for parents to help with…
Parenting Teens Through Launch Anxiety
Even when it scares the $#$@ out of both of you 😉

Do your teens doubt their own abilities?
Have your teens expressed their worry that they don’t have what it takes to “adult?”
Are they worried they missed out on some vital piece of information?
Do they feel like they didn’t get the growing-up handbook everyone else did?

What do you do when your awesome kid doesn’t believe you when you tell them how capable they are?
This 30 minute parenting webinar is designed to give parents the tools and opportunity to look at their own feelings about their growing-up-kids, and figure out how to best help them through the launching process.

​Will you get tools & language to use right away? Absolutely.
Will it help you communicate with your kids even when you’re both anxious? Yup.
Will your teens benefit from more effective support from you? 100%

If you want to support your teens & young adult kids during this normal-yet-terrifying developmental process, but you’re struggling with how much to push when they feel overwhelmed, while also allowing that “launching” in 2024 looks very different than it did for you back in 19*mumble mumble*… so you aren’t sure what to do… Then this is for you.

Reserve your spot HERE

Exploring Color Theory: Watercolors
2024-09-28 10:00 - 16:00
Exploring Color Theory: Watercolors
by Columbia Museum of Art
Saturday, Sept 28th @10am
Teens/Parents — $80-100
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Learn how to apply color theory in watercolor painting. This class focuses on getting comfortable with fundamentals like mixing colors, brush technique, composition, and drawing skills, all of which lead to more successful paintings.
Taught by professional watercolorist Constance Manley, a signature member of the South Carolina Watermedia Society. Ages 15 and up. Please bring a reference photo(s) to work from; all other materials and equipment provided.
$100 / $80 for members. Register HERE

Book Recommendations
2024-09-29 | Virtual Event
Monthly Book Recommendations:
Some ideas we’re thinking about to build community. A few of our favorites and a few in the stack by our nightstand. Let’s READ!

Finding Your Third Place, by Richard Kyte
Do you have a third place? Your first place is home, your second place is work, and your third place is where you go to socialize and build friendships. Yet, for several reasons, many people today find themselves without a third place of their own. At a time when our nation is facing an epidemic of loneliness and communities are suffering from a loss of trust, low levels of engagement, despair, and political polarization, what if the answer to many of our problems lies in a simple idea? What if we just need to pay attention to the places where we find ourselves?
Great Good Place by Ray Oldenburg
“Third places,” or “great good places,” are the many public places where people can gather, put aside the concerns of home and work (their first and second places), and hang out simply for the pleasures of good company and lively conversation. They are the heart of a community’s social vitality and the grassroots of a democracy.
Celebrating the Third Place: Inspiring Stories about the Great Good Places at the Heart of Our Communities by Ray Oldenburg
The time has come to celebrate the many third places that dot the American landscape and foster civic life. With 20 black-and-white photographs, Celebrating the Third Place brings together fifteen firsthand accounts by proprietors of third places, as well as appreciations by fans who have made spending time at these hangouts a regular part of their lives.
A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity & Kinship in the Home and Beyond by Amber O’Neal Johnston
A guide for families of all backgrounds to celebrate cultural heritage and embrace inclusivity in the home and beyond.
Gone are the days when socially conscious parents felt comfortable teaching their children to merely tolerate others. Instead, they are looking for a way to authentically embrace the fullness of their diverse communities. A Place to Belong offers a path forward for families to honor their cultural heritage and champion diversity in the context of daily family life

Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It by Jennifer Breheny Wallace
In the ever more competitive race to secure the best possible future, today’s students face unprecedented pressure to succeed. The pressure to perform is not a matter of parental choice but baked in to our larger society and spurred by increasing income inequality and dwindling opportunities. As a result, children are increasingly absorbing the message that they have no value outside of their accomplishments, a message that is reinforced by the media and greater culture at large. In an ironic twist, kids who receive consistent feedback that they matter no matter what are more likely to have the resilience, self-confidence, and psychological security to thrive.

Let Grow Play Club: October
2024-10-02 13:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: Owens Field
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednsday, October 2, 1-3 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the summer to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on WEDNESDAYs at 1 pm in October.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 1-3 pm now thru May
October’s Location: Owens Field Skate Park 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Sign up here so we can keep an eye out for you and send you meet-up reminders:
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Let Grow Play Club: October
2024-10-09 13:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: Owens Field
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednsday, October 9, 1-3 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the summer to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on WEDNESDAYs at 1 pm in October.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 1-3 pm now thru May
October’s Location: Owens Field Skate Park 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Sign up here so we can keep an eye out for you and send you meet-up reminders:
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Let Grow Play Club: October
2024-10-16 13:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: Owens Field
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, October 16, 1-3 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the summer to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on WEDNESDAYs at 1 pm in October.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 1-3 pm now thru May
October’s Location: Owens Field Skate Park 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Sign up here so we can keep an eye out for you and send you meet-up reminders:
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ACT Webinar: Choosing the "Right" College
2024-10-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
Choosing the “Right” College
by ACT & CollegeWise
Wednesday, Oct 16 @7pm EST
FREE — Teens/Parents
Note: This event is *NOT* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Contact ACT for more information
Finding Your Fit: Researching & Choosing the Right College
Wednesday, October 16, 2024 – 6:00 p.m. CT/7:00 p.m. ET

About this session: With over 4,000 universities just in the US, it’s no wonder most students feel overwhelmed by the research process to find the right schools. Where do you even begin?
In this webinar, Collegewise admission experts will be sharing top tips on how to effectively conduct college research and solidify a well-rounded list of schools. We want every student to be thrilled about their options.
By the end of the session, you will discover:

How to do robust and effective research
What factors to consider when conducting college research
How to maximize college visits
How to create a balanced college list that includes likely, target, and reach schools
How to find schools that are the right fit for your personality, aspirations, and budget

College research doesn’t have to be so complicated, and with Collegewise expert advice, you’ll be all set to approach it with a greater sense of confidence.
Register now and secure your seat!

Intuitive Painting 101
2024-10-19 10:00 - 16:00
Intuitive Painting 101
by Columbia Museum of Art
Saturday, Oct 19th @10am
Teens/Parents — $72-90
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Explore the meditative process of painting. Students experiment with paint in a creative environment while taking inspiration from French Moderns and the CMA Collection. Taught by local art educator Mary Hendrix, who holds a bachelor’s degree in art from East Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in teaching from the University of South Carolina. Ages 15 and up. All materials included.
$90 / $72 for members.
Register HERE

Let Grow Play Club: October
2024-10-23 13:00 - 15:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: Owens Field
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, October 23, 1-3 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the summer to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on WEDNESDAYs at 1 pm in October.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 1-3 pm now thru May
October’s Location: Owens Field Skate Park 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Sign up here so we can keep an eye out for you and send you meet-up reminders:
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Virtual Workshop: Learning Differences
2024-10-24 14:00 - 15:30 | Virtual Event
Adapting Curriculum for Struggling Learners:
Virtual Workshop
by SC Homeschooling Connection
with BJU Press/Homeworks
Thursday, Oct 24 at 2pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note this is a free event by SC Homeschooling Connection. Scroll down to register so we can send you the zoom link and keep an eye out for you.
The workshop will also be recorded for replay.
Adapting Curriculum for Struggling Learners: Discover ideas for planning, scheduling, and adapting materials to meet your child’s learning style. Examples will be shown from BJU resources. But, you can use these strategies for any resources.
Peggy has been involved in education for over 35 years as a homeschool mom, classroom teacher, substitute teacher, tutor, and elementary-level curriculum writer. Working with her own struggling learner at home as well as substituting in a Christian special education school led Peggy to pursue further training through a special education degree. She has the desire for every child to acquire the tools he or she needs to reach their full God-given potential. Peggy and her husband, Arnold, live in South Carolina. They have three grown children. Peggy is a consultant with HomeWorks by Precept and convention workshop presenter. She stays in touch with homeschooling as her oldest daughter homeschools four of their grandchildren.
Register here to reserve your space!

NCAA Webinar
2024-11-03 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual Event
NCAA Webinar
By NCAA Eligibility Center
Sunday, November 3 @ 6pm
FREE — Teens/Parents
Note: This event is *NOT* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Contact NCAA for more information
Are you a student-athlete dreaming of playing your sport at the NCAA level? Invest in your future and spend an hour on Sunday, Nov. 3, from 6 to 7 p.m. Eastern time, understanding the requirements and how to prepare for NCAA certification. Join NCAA Eligibility Center staff, who will walk you through what you need to do to compete at the NCAA Division I, II or III level.
Staff will be answering questions live during the presentation, so come prepared to learn how to take your game to the next level!
Click here to register.

Take Action Club: CPR Workshop
2024-11-06 10:00 - 12:00 | In Person
CPR Workshop
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, Nov 6 @10am-noon
All Ages –$40/participant
Note: This is Cola City event. Registration required–scroll down to reserve your space.
Take Action Club is a new initiative for middle/high schoolers to learn about building community and practical projects. Plus FUN!
This week is open to all ages (parents or younger siblings). Ashley Graham will be facilitating the The Family & Friends CPR Course.
The course teaches the lifesaving skills of adult Hands-Only CPR, adult CPR with breaths, child CPR with breaths, adult and child AED use, infant CPR, and mild and severe airway block for adults, children, and infants. Skills are taught in a dynamic group environment using the AHA’s research-proven practice-while-watching technique, which provides participants with the most hands-on CPR practice time possible.
Location: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, 2701 Heyward St, Columbia, SC 29205 (Let Grow Play Club meet-up is at Grandby Garden afterwards from 1-3pm)
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Homeschool Day at Brevard College
2024-11-08 09:00 - 14:00
Homeschool Visitation Day
by Brevard College
Friday, Nov 8th @9am
Teens/Parents — FREE
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.

Visitation Day for Homeschool Students is Friday, November 8!

Small class sizes, experiential learning, and a relationship-based educational approach aligns perfectly with the goals and expectations of homeschool students.

Align your education with your career goals

Learn more about Brevard’s dedication to experiential education, career readiness, and opportunities for students.

Meet faculty

Brevard’s faculty and classroom experiences are consistently recognized by U.S. News and World Report. You’ll meet and talk with Brevard faculty about your academic and career goals.

Learn about NCAA DIII Athletics

Brevard’s mission aligns perfectly with NCAA DIII. You can meet with coaches, see athletic facilities, and see if you’d like to become a BC Tornado.

Meet with admissions staff

Learn more about your admissions status and eligibility for scholarships and financial aid. Bring your transcript and test scores, and you’ll receive an Admissions decision before you leave!

Take a campus tour

Current BC Students, staff, faculty, and coaches are here to greet you and answer any questions you may have.

Explore the “Land of the Waterfalls”

Experience the natural beauty of Western North Carolina, from hiking to biking to whitewater rafting and more!.

Register HERE to join.

Come Meet Your Army
2024-11-19 16:00 - 18:00
Come Meet Your Army
by US Army Training Center & Ft Jackson
Tuesday, Nov 19th @4pm
FREE — Teens/Parents
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event
The “Come See Your Army” tour at Fort Jackson is a community event that gives the public a chance to experience how soldiers train and see the day-to-day operations at the base.
This event gives local citizens a chance to see how trainees forge the Night Infiltration Course (NIC) to become American soldiers. While low crawling through obstacles that include flares, explosions, and a hail of gunfire overhead, many soldiers have said the NIC is one of the most memorable events of basic training.
The tour includes:

A briefing on the base’s mission and training at the Night Infiltration Course (NIC)
A chance to speak with drill sergeants
A tour of the NIC to watch soldiers train under live machine gun fire
A chance to speak with soldiers about their training

For all interested in participation in the tour, one must:

Register and receive an invitation
Bring a valid ID and a copy of their invitation
Wear long pants and close-toe, comfortable shoes

To register for the tour and/or receive additional information, contact the Fort Jackson’s Community Relations Office at (803) 751-1474 or visit afit.edu.
CLICK HERE TO RSVP FOR THIS TOUR: https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/anim.cfm?i=929852&k=0B634B017E55

National School Choice Fair
2025-02-01 11:00 - 14:00 | In Person
National School Choice Fair
by Palmetto Promise
Saturday, February 1, 11am-2pm
FREE — All Ages/Parents
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event. Contact National School Choice Awareness Foundation for more information and RSVP: Click HERE
Location: Brookland Baptist Church, 1066 Sunset Blvd, West Cola
Time/Date: Saturday, February 1 from 11am-2pm.
FREE Admission
Families in South Carolina have more choices for their children’s education than ever before! Parents: learn more about the different K–12 education options available for your kids at the Columbia School Fair on February 1st 2025, from 11:00am to 2:00pm, at Brookland Baptist Church
At the school fair, you’ll have the chance to meet representatives from traditional public, public charter, public, magnet, private, faith-based, online, home, and nontraditional schooling options, and have your questions answered.
This event is hosted by Palmetto Promise Institute in collaboration with the National School Choice Awareness Foundation. It’s family-friendly, free to attend, and will include complimentary food, face painting and balloon artists. RSVP today!
Featured Schools + Vendors: Note the Homeschool representation too!
SC Whitmore School
Hawthorne Christian Academy
Grace Christian School
Edge Christian Academy
Grace Community Academy of Columbia
Heritage Christian Academy
Hope Christian Academy
South Carolina Child Care Resource & Referral
South Carolina Virtual Charter School
Vital Connections of the Midlands
Midlands Middle College
Cutler Jewish Day School
GREEN Charter Midlands
The Suzuki Academy of Columbia
Carolinas Academic Leadership Network
South Carolina Connections Academy
Educational Scholarship Trust Fund
Colearn Academy
Soaring Eagles Christian Academy
American Leadership Academy Lexington (6-12)
Northside Christian Academy
Saint Joseph Catholic School
Clear Dot Charter School
Lexington School District Two
St. Martin de Porres Catholic School
Foundation Christian School
Gray Collegiate Academy
SC Homeschooling Connection
RoyalT Learning Center
Inspired Learning and Above
Omni Therapy Solutions
Mountains to Sea Homeschool Association
I Tutor the Kids, LLC
USC Early Social Development Lab
First Steps 4K
HERO Homeschool Group
BLAST Aerospace Magnet at WA Perry Middle School
Saluda River Academy for the Arts
Cyril B. Busbee Creative Arts Academy
St John Neumann Catholic School
SC Public Charter School District
Excelsior Academy
Montessori School of Columbia
United Way of the Midlands
Rhema Christian School
Family Connection of South Carolina
Ervin’s Enrichment
American Leadership Academy K-5th
Ascent Classical Academy
Cardinal Newman School
Dyslexia Resource Center
Cyber Academy of South Carolina
Heron Virtual Academy

Goldilocks Ballet
2025-02-07 11:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Goldilocks & 3 B’s Ballet
Education Outreach Performance
by Columbia City Ballet
Friday, February 7 at 11:15 am
$6.50/seat — All Ages
Note: This group rate discount is organized by Cola City Homeschoolers. Seating is limited for this sold out performance. Registration and prepayment is required–scroll down for registration.
Columbia City Ballet offers Education Outreach performances especially for children. This program is “Goldilocks & The Three B’s: Bach, Beethoven & Beyonce”. Cola City Homeschoolers has secured a group discount rate for each seat, including adults and students on Friday, February at 11:15 am.
These extended opportunities incorporate the interrelated nature of the elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Math). Performances last approximately 1 hour and include a Q&A session. Productions are narrated providing students a clear understanding of the story and allowing them to fully appreciate the professional dancers of Columbia City Ballet and its high artistic and production standards.
Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time to find parking and to be seated. Parking is available for an hourly rate in the nearby parking garage and also street meters.
Contact colacityinfo@gmail.com with any questions about this group event.
Call or text Kim A. if you’re running late or lost along the way: 803-307-4880
Reserve your seats now:

Let Grow Play Club
2025-02-12 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: February
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, Feb 12, 12-2:30 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the fall to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on every other WEDNESDAY.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 12:30-2:30 pm now thru May
Location: Owens Field Park, 1401 Jim Hamilton Blvd, Columbia
Alternate location/Inclement weather: Richland Library Children’s/Teens Room, 1431 Assembly St.
Columbia
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities, scooters, skate boards, bikes.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Family Dance Party 2
2025-02-21 18:30 - 21:30 | In Person
Family Dance Party
Hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, February 21, 6:30-9:30 pm
All Ages — $10/ticket
Note: This event is hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. This is not a drop-off event. Scroll down to register for tickets.
BACK by popular demand!! Ready to shake off the winter blues!
It’s our 2nd Annual Family Dance Party on Friday, February 21st from 6:30-9:30 pm. Located at St. David’s Lutheran Church (in the gym) 132 St Davids Church Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170.
Tickets are $10 for all ages. Photo booth and refreshments included. Glow sticks and minute-to-win games/prizes too! Featuring DJ: Cindy Cheek
Parents are asked to stay on site, participate in the activities–it’s family fun. Dressy/Semi-formal/Festive attire recommended (in other words: dress-up/not casual). Theme is Glitter and Glow–Shimmer and Shine. Wear clothing and accessories that light up!
Contact Kim/Cola City homeschoolers with any questions: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Register HERE for this Cola City Event:
