A Sense of Belonging

 Wonderment Circle was created to provide social learning opportunities  for children with diverse needs. Participants are supported by a licensed teacher with a background in special education, homeschooling, and working with kids who have experienced trauma.

A Space to Explore

 
Enrichment focuses on differentiated experiences with science and literature. Children are supported in ways that let abilities and interests shine.

Inclusive Communities

Wonderment Circle aims to serve a range of leaners with unique skills, needs, and backgrounds. It's OK to be yourself at Wonderment, and children can feel confident that they will be valued and accepted in a group setting. 

Joy in Connection

Children who feel connected to nature feel happier, less stressed, and frequently experience an important emotion- the feeling of awe. This makes the outdoors a wonderful place to learn and form positive relationships with others. 

Wonderment Circle groups are held in local parks where learners can most easily access immersive time in the natural world around them and the many benefits of time spent outside. 

Fall groups meet between August 21, 2024-December 13, 2024. Groups for fall are closed at 9 learners.
 Email wondermentcircle@gmail.com to apply!

Tuesdays in Charlottesville:
Symbiosis: Living Together 
10:30am-2pm 
$120/month

Designed for ages 6-14, Symbiosis will focus on unique relationships between members of different species and the interconnectedness of life on our planet.  Learners with diverse needs will be supported through whole group and individualized supports. Each class will explore a different symbiotic relationship in nature using themed literature and podcasts, collaborative activities, games, and art. Afternoons will also include lunch and a hike on local trails.  

Thursdays in Fluvanna:
Micro Discoveries
10:30am-2pm
$120/month

Designed for ages 6-14, Micro Discoveries will familiarize learners with the behaviors, structures, and functions of some of the smallest parts of our world through microscope studies.  All learners will be exploring the tiny details of minibeasts and plants, and learners who are ready for more abstract thinking will be able to also investigate plant and animal cells during the fall.  Each day will include a mix of hands on activities with microscopes and other scientific tools, themed literature and podcasts, activity choices, lunch, and a hike. 

Partial months are prorated to reflect only the days groups meet.

Discounts are available for siblings, learners who need an additional adult to be present for specialized care, and learners whose families are experiencing financial hardship. 


Please email wondermentcircle@gmail.com to apply, ask questions, or discuss special financial circumstances. 

Wonderment Circle is organized by Colleen Cook. Colleen graduated from UVA with a  Bachelor of Arts in psychology and a Master of Teaching  in Early Childhood Special Education. Following graduation, Colleen taught in local public schools and became a therapeutic foster parent. 
Colleen began homeschooling her children in early 2020. Colleen is passionate about working with families and about creating and supporting spaces where children who are neurodivergent feel safe, valued, and capable. In her spare time, Colleen likes to garden, read mysteries, and hike. She lives in Central Virginia with her husband David, three or more children, Mumu the dog, and Silk Sonic and Appacado the cats. 