Find Groups
Homeschool Hive makes it easy to discover homeschool groups that match your family's interests and location. This guide shows you how to find and explore groups.
Browse All Groups
- Click Groups in the main navigation
- You'll see a list of available groups in your area
Search for Groups
Use the search bar to find specific groups:
- Enter keywords related to the group name or focus
- Press Enter or click the search icon
- Results will show matching groups
Search tips:
- Search by group name ("Classical Conversations")
- Search by activity type ("nature study", "co-op")
- Search by educational approach ("Charlotte Mason", "Montessori")
Filter Groups
Narrow down your search using filters:
By Location
Finding groups near you is now smarter with automatic location detection:
- Automatic Location Detection - When you visit the Groups page, your browser will ask for permission to access your location. Allowing this shows you groups closest to you automatically.
- Smart Search Expansion - If there are only a few groups nearby, Homeschool Hive automatically expands the search radius to show you more options, ensuring you always find great communities.
- City/Zip Code - Enter a specific location to search if you prefer not to share your location
- Radius - Choose how far you're willing to travel (5, 10, 25, 50+ miles)
For the best experience, allow your browser to access your location when prompted. This helps show you the most relevant groups in your area first.
By Age Range
Filter groups based on the ages they serve:
- Click the Age Range filter
- Select the age ranges that match your children
- Groups will show only those that serve your selected ages
This helps you quickly find groups that are age-appropriate for your family.
By Faith
Find communities that align with your family's values:
- Click the Faith filter
- Choose from options like Christian, Secular, Jewish, Muslim, and more
- View groups that match your faith preference
By Academic Focus
Search by educational philosophy or subject emphasis:
- Click the Academic Focus filter
- Select approaches like:
- Classical Education
- Montessori
- Charlotte Mason
- Unschooling
- Traditional
- STEM-focused
- And more
- Find groups that match your homeschooling style
By Group Type
- Local Groups - Groups that meet in person
- Online Groups - Virtual communities without physical meetings
By Category
Browse groups by their focus area, such as:
- Academic co-ops
- Field trip groups
- Sports and recreation
- Arts and music
- STEM activities
- Social groups
Using the Interactive Map
The Groups page includes an interactive map that makes it easy to visualize where groups are located:
Map Features
- Map Markers - Each group appears as a marker on the map showing its location
- Hover Previews - Move your cursor over any map marker to see a quick preview of the group, including:
- Group name
- Distance from your location
- Membership type (free or paid)
- Brief description
- Click for Details - Click on a map marker to open the full group details page
Tips for Using the Map
- Zoom In/Out - Use the map controls or your mouse wheel to adjust the view
- Pan Around - Click and drag to explore different areas
- Compare Locations - Quickly see which groups are closest to you or along your regular routes
- Combined with Filters - The map updates automatically when you apply filters, showing only groups that match your criteria
The map makes it easy to find groups along your daily routes. Look for markers near places you already visit regularly like libraries, parks, or shopping areas.
Browsing Groups
Groups load seamlessly as you scroll down the page - no need to click through multiple pages. Simply scroll to see more groups, and new results will load automatically. This makes it easy to browse through all available options at your own pace.
Understanding Group Types
Public vs. Private Groups
Public Groups
- Anyone can view group details
- Join immediately (free) or through checkout (paid)
- Open membership
Private Groups
- Limited information visible before joining
- Requires approval from group leaders
- May have membership questions to answer
Free vs. Paid Membership
Free Groups
- No cost to join
- Click "Join" to become a member instantly
Paid Groups
- Require a membership fee (monthly or annual)
- Complete payment during the join process
- May offer different membership tiers
View Group Details
Click on any group to see more information:
- About - Group description and mission
- Events - Upcoming activities and events
- Members - Number of families in the group
- Location - Where the group meets (for local groups)
- Membership - Cost and requirements to join
Save Groups for Later
If you find a group you're interested in but aren't ready to join:
- Click the Bookmark icon on the group card
- Access your saved groups from your profile
What's Next?
Found a group you like? Learn how to:
- Join a group - Request membership or complete payment
- Find events - Browse activities from groups you've joined
- RSVP for events - Register your family for activities