raising brain homeschool co-op summer program camp northern virginia flint hill rappahanno

Homeschool Enrichment Program 2024-2025

TUESDAYS - WEDNESDAYS - THURSDAYS 9-3

Flint Hill, Virginia

Nurturing a lifelong love for learning is our core mission.

At Raising Brain, we place a strong emphasis on fostering social-emotional well-being and cultivating essential habits and skills that naturally pave the way for academic achievement. Our approach resonates with entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers, as well as families seeking to enrich homeschooling through child-led learning and meaningful social interactions.

Our curriculum is carefully crafted to complement home-based studies, providing a supportive environment for young learners aged 5-15 who are eager to dedicate extra time to pursuing their passions.

We also offer neuro-affirming parenting support, neuro-inclusive interior design, homeschooling consultations, and neuro-inclusive communication training, all tailored to create environments where both children and families can thrive.

Consulting

FOLLOW OUR JOURNEY ON INSTAGRAM

Matching hand colors to dots is a fun and effective way to build hand-eye coordination, improve fine motor skills, and strengthen bilateral integration. This activity also enhances focus, visual perception, and spatial awareness, while encouraging problem-solving, cognitive flexibility, and working through mistakes. It’s a simple yet powerful way to develop essential skills through play! #raisingbrain #microschool #childdevelopment #occupationaltherapy #childledlearning #microschools #elementaryteacher #elementary

Organizing can be especially challenging for individuals with developing brains or executive functioning difficulties, especially when they feel rushed. Instead of punishing when expectations aren’t met, we can teach these skills gradually with clear, realistic instructions and necessary supports. For example, instead of saying “clean your room,” we can break it down into steps: “Please put your clean clothes in the closet and dirty clothes in the laundry basket.”

I noticed some students feeling rushed when putting their things away in cubbies, leading to papers piling up or falling out. We talked about the importance of securing papers in binders to avoid losing them and making it easier to find things later. I also provided a visual example of how their cubbies should be organized, so they have a clear reference. If I see a cubby looking overwhelming, I’ll ask the student if they need help organizing it. We’ll do it together, happily admiring their work while they tell me about it. Over time, with this kind of support, they’ll internalize the process and become more independent. Clear, realistic expectations—whether for cubbies or other tasks—reduce confusion and help everyone succeed.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microachooling #homeschool #homeachoolers #executivefunction #executivefunctioning #executivefunctioningskills #executivefunctions #adhd #autism #autistic #anxiety #ocd #neurodivergent #organization #mentalhealth #accomodations #elementary #elementaryteacher #elementaryteachers #middleschool #middleschoolteacher #childdevelopment #childpsychology

We had a serial Rickroller at our school, and I decided to take matters into my own hands—by putting them on trial! There were two suspects who seemed “sus,” so I organized a full-blown mock trial. The entire school got involved, from kids ages 5 to 13, to the teachers. It was an incredible way to add improv to our routine.

Improv can be challenging, and it’s even harder to think on your feet when you’re being blamed for something you may or may not have done. But that’s exactly why this experience was so valuable. It taught everyone how to stay calm under pressure, think critically, and present a clear argument.

Through this activity, students practiced important skills like turn-taking, debate, teamwork, patience, evidence based arguments, and public speaking. It was a lot of fun, and in the end, we figured out who the culprit was!

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschooling #childdevelopment #childpsychology #confidence #autonomy #socialemotionallearning #criticalthinking #mocktrial #lawschool #rickastley #rickroll #sus #scienceteacher #middleschool #elementaryschool #mixedagelearning #projectbasedlearning

Every child should have access to art, not just as a creative outlet, but as a vital tool for growth and learning. Art education supports physical development, such as improving fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and even confidence. It also nurtures cognitive growth by teaching children how to interpret and appreciate the diverse ways people express themselves. Art is subjective, and by exploring different artists and styles, children learn that meaning is not fixed—it can vary based on perspective. This openness to interpretation also helps them understand that big ideas and movements can emerge from seemingly simple creative expressions.

Art should not be an afterthought in education, but an integral part of it. For example, this week we discussed the important topic of consent, teaching children that their bodies belong to them and that no one should touch them, whether it’s a stranger, a friend, or even if they are just “playing around.” We talked about how to set boundaries, say “no,” and seek help if needed. To reinforce these concepts, I introduced the work of Keith Haring, whose bold, well-defined figures—often in dynamic poses—are a visual representation of personal boundaries. His use of strong lines and clear shapes helped illustrate the importance of respecting space and personal limits. The students were engaged, and they created some thoughtful artwork that connected directly to our lesson. This is just one example of how art can enrich a child’s understanding of important life lessons while also supporting their overall development. Art deserves to be a core part of education, whenever and wherever possible.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschooling #artteacher #artteachersofinstagram #artteachers #keithharing #consent #teachingconsent #socialemotional #socialemotionallearning #socialemotionaldevelopment #occupationaltherapy #childdevelopment #artwork #teachersofinstagram #teachers #teacher #middleschool #middleschoolteacher #elementary #elementaryteacher #elementaryart

Our nest was such an awesome project! Today was the end of its exhibit for the @rappartsandcommunity Ephermal art show in Rappahannock County. A big thank you to Kerry at @beforeandaftersperryville for allowing our students to build this beauty on his riverside property. This was such a great experience and we loved every bit of it!

Underrated free family fun in DC! @usbotanicgarden tons of learning opportunities, the kids particularly loved being able to walk through the rainforest canopy with all the mist and seeing the giant trees and leaves. They also have models of all of DC’s landmarks made from natural materials like a variety of barks. They have different sections with different biomes, it was neat to see the difference in climates as you walked through each one.

Both the gardens and the reflection pool are great places for picnics or to curl up with a good book!

It is located directly across from the Capitol Reflecting Pool, with free parking right up front!

📍100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington D.C. 20001

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #homeschool #microschoolsofinstagram #projectbasedlearning #dc #washingtondc #washingtondctrip #washingtondcfamilyportraits #dcfamilyfun #dctour #thingstodoindc #thingstodoindcforfree #nova #dmv

It’s essential to give children the time and space to fully execute their plans. Too often, adults rush through play or underestimate the depth of learning and brain development it encourages. Child-led projects like this allow children to engage in hands-on, sensory-rich activities, creating a whole-brain learning experience that goes far beyond what any traditional classroom lesson can provide. When children are intrinsically motivated, their brains enter a state that promotes deeper learning, helping them form new connections and develop critical thinking skills. By giving them the freedom to explore, create, and reflect, we support their cognitive growth in ways that nurture both creativity and academic success.

At first glance, this might seem like just a video of two children playing and designing. But when you slow it down and look closely, you can see the thought and intention behind each piece. Notice how they rearrange elements, collaborating closely and blending their individual ideas into one cohesive vision. This process requires significant brainpower—especially for children at developmental stages of 7 and 11—engaging skills like collaboration, planning, counting, measuring, pattern recognition, spatial awareness, geometry, and even horticulture. They’re also practicing long-term goal setting and patience, all while immersed in a rich sensory experience: the damp ground beneath them, the tickling grass, the thorny rose bushes, the smell of flowers, the feel of heavy rocks and light leaves, the vibrant colors, and the sounds of the outdoor environment.

What makes this experience even more remarkable is their decision to create their installation right in the middle of the schoolyard, where children ages 5-13 are actively playing. They communicated their intention, kindly asking others to be mindful of their work, and not a single piece of their design was disturbed, even with a lively game of octopus tag taking place around it. This speaks to the power of ownership, respect, and collaboration, and shows just how deeply children can engage in meaningful learning when given the space to create with intention.

#raisingbrain #microschool

During Halloween week, we took the opportunity to model and practice safe street crossing together. I chose this week because it’s filled with excitement—activities, costumes, friends, family, parties, and events.

It provided the perfect backdrop for teaching safety amid all the heightened emotions. We practiced on a quiet side street with minimal traffic, and they did wonderfully.

This important life skill is often discussed in traditional schools but rarely practiced in real-world scenarios with distractions.

#raisingbrain #childdevelopment #childpsychology #occupationaltherapy #ot #healthyhabits #parentsoftiktok #teachersoftiktok #teacher #childautonomy #autonomy #childbehavior #behavior #intrinsicmotivation #elementaryteacher #middleschoolteacher #safety #realworld #lifeskills #childsafety

The Frizz, Coraline, and the Grim Reaper hope everyone enjoyed a fantastic Halloween!

Today was our Rainbow Day, and we made paper towel rainbow ghost decorations for our Halloween party this Thursday. While it may just seem like they were coloring and wetting paper towels, they were actually exploring scientific concepts like capillary action and color mixing.

Understanding capillary action connects to key ideas such as how water travels in plants, effective irrigation methods, and filtration systems for water purification.

This playful approach to learning shows that education doesn’t have to be rigid and announced. By integrating fun activities, we create a space where curiosity thrives, making learning more meaningful and memorable. Kids aren’t just absorbing facts; they’re actively discovering and experiencing the process firsthand.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschooling #science #rainbow #rainbows #scienceteacher #scienceteachers #mindfulteaching #projectbased #projectbasedlearning #freetolearn #northernvirginia #learning #learningthroughplay

Our resident skeleton, Albert Spinestein, is competing in the Flint Hill skeleton contest with his entry titled “miscALculated.” Unfortunately, he miscalculated his stair measurements and ended up in quite the predicament!

A big thank you to @darkhorseirishpub for hosting such a fantastic community event!

#raisingbrain #flinthill #flinthillva #flinthillskeletons #skeleton #microschool #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #microschoolbuilders #microschoolmovement #alternativeschool #alternativeeducation #homeschool #homeschooling #homeschoolers

Our Mural, “Together We Shine: A Mosaic of Unity”, is finally finished and waiting to head to the main gallery for the @rappahannock_art Fall Art Tour! We were so excited when we received our invite to be a part of this wonderful community collaboration. We are 1 of 4 schools in the county that will be in the main gallery at The Washington School, in Little Washington. The tour is in November 2-3 10-5pm and info can be found on their site. The Main Gallery will be open for a month afterwards in case you can’t get there that weekend.

Big thank you to @rappartsandcommunity for the wonderful opportunity to showcase our students talent!

#raisingbrain #rappahannock #rappahannockcounty #flinthill #flinthillva #art #artgallery #littlewashington #littlewashingtonva #innatlittlewashington #schoolart #schoolartwork #mural #community #communityfirst #artist #northernvirginia

This experience demonstrates how unrestricted access can reduce the impulse to overindulge, even as I ensure that no one goes overboard. Some students may struggle with this, especially if they face restrictions at home. However, when a few children exhibit impulse control, it can set a standard that fosters trust with shared resources, encouraging others to follow suit over time.

In our classroom, we provide free access to snacks and lunches, fostering a relaxed environment that diminishes the urge to “get it while you can.” This highlights why scheduled meal times can be counterproductive for those without medical dietary needs.

During our STEM activity, we had over 500 marshmallows—four bags of mini marshmallows and three bags of regular marshmallows—spread among 13 students. As I introduced the project, I casually distributed the marshmallows, trusting them to exercise patience.

While discussing the pyramids we were about to build, I passed a marshmallow for each around the circle. Surprisingly, none of the students ate theirs right away. They were curious whether the marshmallows were for the project or for a snack. Finally, I clarified they could have them as a treat, and they calmly nibbled while I explained the building instructions.

Before we began, I reassured them there were plenty of marshmallows and suggested they take one at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. We also discussed suggested serving sizes to encourage mindfulness while snacking. Most enjoyed their marshmallows slowly, knowing there was no need to rush.

This is a strong example of how supportive practices can promote healthy eating habits and trust in shared resources, ultimately reducing the likelihood of overindulgence.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #homeschool #microschoolsofinstagram #flinthill #childledlearning #homeschoolers #projectbasedlearning #homeschoolcoop #occupacionaltherapy #ot #childpsychology #childpsych #childtherapy #childtherapytoolbox #mindfullarenting #mindfulteachers #nutrition #childdevelopment #childnutrition

The outdoor classroom is coming along great! I have big plans for this beautiful space. Today we added the picnic table and mud kitchen!

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #natureschool #natureschooling #forestschool #forestschoolideas #northernvirginia #northernvirginiaschools #outdoorplay #outdoorplayground #naturalplayground #naturalplay #getoutside #getoutsideandplay #creek #creekplay #creekschool #homeschool #homeschoolers #naturelover #10000hours #1000hoursoutside #northernvirginia

Just a few weeks ago, Hurricane Helene left our nest overflowing, with swimming fish and all kinds of debris.

Today, while sprucing things up and adding sticks, we got some help from a local celebrity and four-legged friend with a perfect hobby for the task—sticks!

Big thanks to, @halle_theaussie , for lending a paw!

@rappartsandcommunity @beforeandaftersperryville

#raisingbrain #rappahannock #rappahannockcounty #sperryville #sperryvilleva #sperryvillevirginia #fallarttourva #fallarttour #sperryvilletrails #beforeandafter #aussie #aussielove #halletheaussie

Children learn best when they engage all their senses, and making messes is a fantastic way for them to do just that. It’s not just fun—it helps them form strong, positive associations by activating the brain’s ‘happy hormones.’

While many adults avoid messy play because it means more cleaning up, kids can and often enjoy helping tidy. It’s all about how the task is framed—focusing on connection rather than demand.

Instead of abruptly ending the fun with “Okay, pick up the toilet paper, we’re done,” why not make cleanup part of the play?

Try, “Let’s see how fast we can clean up! I’ll time you and hold the bag!” Then jump right in with, “On your mark…” and you’ve created another game, turning the task into a skill-building moment!

#raisingbrain #childdevelopment #childpsychology #childledlearning #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #homeschoolersoftiktok #lifeskills #socialemotionaldevelopment #socialemotionallearning #teaching #classroom #modelbehavior #sensory #sensoryissues #ot #occupationaltherapy #childbehavior #behavior #therapytiktok #therapy #parenting #parentingtips #elementary #middleschool #middleschoolteacher #elementaryteacher #mummy #ancientegypt

Is your child struggling with excessive screen time, indulging in too many treats when left unsupervised, or acting out when these comforts are taken away?

Discover how to transform these challenges into opportunities for healthier habits! Check out our latest post, link in bio.

https://www.raisingbrain.org/single-post/the-paradox-of-restriction-understanding-child-behavior-and-stress

So excited we finally got to witness the Aurora! #raisingbrain #aurora #auroraborealis #northernvirginia #flinthill #flinthillva #rappahannock #microschool

Teach by example, and watch them not only succeed but inspire others to do the same.

#raisingbrain #childdevelopment #childpsychology #childledlearning #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #homeschoolersoftiktok #teaching #socialemotionallearning #socialemotionaldevelopment #lifeskills #classroom #classroomorganization #classroomorganization #classroommanagement #naturalcleaner #lifeskills #montessori #montessoriclassroom #modelbehavior #behaviormanagement #behaviorteacher #behavior

Thirty minutes before dismissal, we gather for our Clean Sweep. I assign tasks by randomly drawing names and numbers, rather than letting them choose a number. This removes the pressure of choice, helping reduce frustration and negative self-talk if they’re assigned a task they don’t care for. Since they aren’t responsible for picking it, they’re more likely to accept and complete the task without added stress or disappointment. For those who have a lighter task that day, when they finish they’re encouraged to help others how they can.

This method also promotes mindfulness throughout the day, encouraging learners to keep things organized, as they won’t know in advance which task they’ll be assigned.

#raisingbrain #childdevelopment #childledlearning #microschools #socialemotionallearning #classroommanagement #montessori #lifeskillseducation #flinthill #projectbasedlearning #homeschool

Two key skills we focus on daily are following directions and being patient. Often, you’ll see me let the older kids go first on projects while the younger ones wait. This may seem unusual, but it serves two important purposes: 1) It teaches patience and taking turns, and 2) Watching the older children first turns verbal instructions into a visual demonstration, so by the time it’s their turn, the younger kids have a solid understanding of what to do.

One of our classmates is out sick this week, so we decided to do something to cheer him up. We recreated the “pass this to Kevin” scene from Home Alone, which required paying close attention to whose turn it was and holding their excitement until it was time. I showed them the clip just once, and they nailed it! We had so much fun with it!

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #homeschool #microschoolsofinstagram #flinthill #childledlearning #projectbasedlearning #socialemotionallearning #socialemotionaldevelopment #socialemotionaleducation #socialemotionalskills #teaching #teacher #teachersfollowteachers #classroommanagement

This is a highly adaptable, whole-Brain math game that engages multiple senses from start to finish. It activates auditory (hearing the dice roll), tactile (feeling the dice in hand), and visual (subitizing the sum) senses, followed by more tactile (popping the pop-it), auditory (hearing the pop), and visual (tracking rows). 📈📉

Engaging multiple senses strengthens learning by lighting up different areas of the brain, creating more connections that reinforce the concepts being learned. The winner is determined by whoever gets all of their pop-its down first.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #homeschool #microschoolsofinstagram #flinthill #homeschoolers #childledlearning #gameschool #gameschooling #math #mathforkids #mathteacher #mathtricks #elementary #middleschool #occupationaltherapy #childdevelopment

A big thanks to Ms. Diane for making these awesome art smocks for every student! They are loving them! #raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschooling #homeschoolers #homeschoolersofinstagram #elementary #elementaryart #elementaryartteacher #middleschool #middleschoolart #middleschoolartteacher #school #classroom #fall #ghost #flinthill

Our nest is truly living up to its name, “Woven Together”! It’s still intact and may only need a few minor repairs, if any at all.

Our team of builders took their job seriously and it shows!

#raisingbrain #rappahannock #rappahannockcounty #rappahannockriver #flooding #flood #hurricainehelene #helene #ephermeralart #woventogether #nest #microschool #microschoolsofinstagram #microschools #homeschoolers #homeschoolersofinstagram #nature #natureart @beforeandaftersperryville @rappartsandcommunity

“Positive Discipline” – When we focus on changing behavior with a reward, we often overlook that not receiving the reward becomes a consequence.

This makes the term “positive” misleading, as the absence of the reward can function as a punishment.

#raisingbrain #parenting #neuroaffirming #neuroaffirmative #socialemotionallearning #socialemotionaldevelopment #discipline #childbehavior #behavior #behavioriscommunication #microschool #microschoolsofinstagram #microschools #gentleparenting #gentleteaching #mindfulness

I recently came across Corny, a sweet 10-year-old corn snake whose loving owner has gone off to college. She clearly adored him, but with her new chapter, Corny was looking for a new home. Initially, I didn’t reach out as there were several others interested, but when I saw his post again, I knew I had to message. I’m so glad I did! After sharing that we were looking for a class pet, his owner chose to rehome him with us, knowing he’d be in a space where he’d get lots of love and attention.

For those who know me, one of my special interests is amphibians and reptiles, particularly in creating bioactive enclosures. Corny’s almost settled into his new home, just waiting for the finishing touches—a topsoil and sand mix substrate, leaf litter, and a clean-up crew. Soon, he’ll be off to school, where he’ll not only be adored but also teach the children so much, just as he was cherished in his first home.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #homeschool #microschoolsofinstagram #flinthill #childledlearning #homeschoolers #homeschoolcoop #projectbasedlearning #classpet #socialemotional #socialemotionallearning #cornsnake #bioactive #bioactiveenclosure #science #biology #scienceteacher #middleschool #elementary #snakeenclosure

Following up on my previous post about consistency and simplifying play and work invitations—when you buy a game or toy, consider getting rid of the packaging. Toys crammed into a box are not visually inviting and can confuse a child about how to engage with them. Plus, putting everything away becomes overwhelming. Many games, like the one shown, come with a ton of options, but it’s perfectly okay to only display a few at a time. For instance, this set came with 16 cubes and 64 cards, but I only put out two cubes with three cards each. I also repurposed a $3 mirror from Target as a tray, since this is a social-emotional game about facial expressions. The mirror lets children practice their own expressions, making the play more intentional and engaging.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #homeschoolersoftiktok #childdevelopmemt #occupationaltherapy #elementaryteacher #elementaryteacher #middleschool #ot #motorskills

If you find yourself frequently cleaning up after a child, take a step back and evaluate their environment, especially the play or work setups. Too many elements can create inconsistency, which leads to stress—whether from overwhelm or overexcitement. Simplifying the space and establishing clear, non-verbal expectations can encourage mindfulness and reduce the mess.

#raisingbrain #microschool #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #homeschoolersoftiktok #childdevelopmemt #elementaryteacher #teaching #homeschoolersofinstagram #sensorybinideas #occupationaltherapy #occupationaltherapy #middleschool #motorskills #ot

Today, we celebrated the launch of the Ephemeral Art Installations in Sperryville! A huge thank you to Pete Pazmino, Co Chair of the program, Kerry Sutton, owner of @beforeandaftersperryville , and @rappartsandcommunity Arts for welcoming us into this incredible community project.

Our students were thrilled to see their work being appreciated by others and how they are now recognized as “legit” artists, as they like to say!

Programs like this are the heartbeat of strong communities, connecting people of all ages and artistic styles, beautifully woven together.

A few of us ended our day hosted by our friends from @otgsperryville with wonderful fresh food, and a farm tour. What a great spot, check them out during the Rappahannock Farm Tour!

#raisingbrain #beforeandaftercoffee #offthegridsperryville #raac #sperryville #sperryvilleva #rappahannock #rapphannockva #flinthill #microschool #microschools #microschoolsofinstagram #homeschool #homeschoolers

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Follow us on Instagram

#raisingbrain

@raisingbrain

TUESDAYS - WEDNESDAYS - THURSDAYS 9-3

Flint Hill, Virginia

Nurturing a lifelong love for learning is our core mission.

​

Follow us on Instagram