Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Location & About Us 📍
Where is Hidden Bee Learning located?
We’re on a beautiful, historic 1843 farm at 753 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia, TN. Our site includes Hidden Bee Learning homeschool programs and Hidden Bee Farm — a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit farm animal rescue and sanctuary.
What about the walnut tree on the property?
There’s a large walnut tree on the farm. Kids may walk near it, but walnuts are never used in meals or animal feed. Families with nut allergies should take this into consideration.
Programs & Age Groups 🎒
What’s the difference between Hidden Bee Farm, Hidden Bee Learning, and Hidden Bee Learning Summer Camp?
- Hidden Bee Farm is our nonprofit animal rescue and sanctuary.
- Hidden Bee Learning is our homeschool enrichment program during the school year.
- Hidden Bee Learning Summer Camp is the summer extension of that program, offering fun and educational camps.
What age groups do you serve?
- Little Explorers (3–5 years): Foundational learning with hands-on, play-based activities.
- Pathfinders (6–7 years): Micro-school following Tennessee homeschool laws with reading, math, and science. Some advanced 5-year-olds may qualify.
- Trailblazers / Enrichment (7+ years): Science, art, writing, and nature exploration, capped at 16 students.
Kids are placed by learning readiness for the best experience.
Are you a farm program?
We’re primarily a homeschool enrichment program. However, the farm environment plays a big role in experiential learning, especially for older students.
Enrollment & Policies 📝
Is potty training required?
Yes, all children must be fully potty trained and manage hygiene independently. Assistance requires prior approval.
What are the program hours?
- Little Explorers: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Pathfinders: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Trailblazers: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
What are the farm gate hours and policies?
- Gates open at 8:50 AM
- Gates close promptly at 9:15 AM (call if arriving late)
- Gates reopen briefly at 12:15 PM for pickups
- Gates close again at 1:30 PM
Please be punctual and notify us if you will be late.
Academic Calendar & Breaks 📅
When are the semesters and breaks?
- Fall 2025: August 4 – December 18 (Labor Day, Fall Break, Thanksgiving)
- Winter/Spring 2026: January 5 – May 21 (MLK Day, Mid-Winter, Spring Break)
Fees & Payment 💰
Is there a supply or field trip fee?
Sometimes. You’ll receive advance notice, and we strive to keep fees low.
What is your tuition and payment policy?
- Semester-based tuition
- Weekly automated payments (biweekly/monthly plans on request)
- $50 non-refundable deposit per child, refunded only if no spot available
- 10% sibling discount
No refunds mid-semester due to committed spots and staffing.
What if I need to withdraw mid-semester?
A full semester commitment is required. Contact us for help, but refunds aren’t guaranteed.
Are there late fees?
- $25 fee for returned or failed payments
- Late pickup fees: $10 plus $1 per minute after a 15-minute grace period
These cover staffing expenses.
Enrollment Paperwork 📄
What paperwork is needed before enrollment?
All forms including registration, health, allergies, emergency contacts, and consent must be completed before your child’s first day. Enrollment is not official until paperwork is approved. Deposits are only refunded if no spot is available.
Attendance & Parent Policies 🤔
Can parents stay with their children during program hours?
No, to help kids focus. Parents may pick up their child anytime without notice. Contact us anytime with concerns.
What if rules or boundaries aren’t respected?
Respect for everyone and animals is required. Violations may lead to removal from the program for safety.
Animals & Environment 🐐🐝
Will my child interact with animals?
Yes, safe and supervised interactions are part of the program to build empathy and responsibility.
Are there bees on the farm?
Yes, but safely separated from learning and play areas.
Ratios & Safety 👩👧👦
What’s the student-to-teacher ratio?
- Little Explorers & Pathfinders: approx. 10:1 (max 12)
- Trailblazers: capped at 16
- Aides assigned based on group size.
What to Bring & Special Needs 🎒♿
What should my child bring?
Weather-appropriate clothes, closed-toe shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, towel for outdoor days.
Do you support children with special needs?
Yes, please contact us to discuss accommodations.
Outdoor Play & Weather 🌦️
What is your outdoor play policy?
- Above 45°F: normal play
- 40–45°F: limited play (10–15 minutes)
- Below 40°F: indoor only
Dress your child accordingly.
Allergy Policies 🥜🌾
Are you a nut-free facility?
We’re nut-aware but not nut-free:
- No food sharing
- No nuts served; pack nut-free lunches
- Walnut tree on property (outdoor only)
- Animal feed may contain soy/corn, no nuts
Please disclose allergies at registration.
What about other allergies?
We accommodate dairy, gluten, soy, eggs, etc. Notify us at registration.
What if my child has allergies to animals or feed?
Please inform us for accommodations.
Contact Us 📞
Hidden Bee Learning @ Hidden Bee Farm
753 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
Phone: 931-674-1790
Email: contact@hiddenbeefarm.org
Website: www.hbeelearning.com