PINECONE PALS
Outdoor Homeschool Co-op
Worcester, MA
**STARTING JUNE 1st, 2026**
Pinecone Pals Co-Op is an outdoor homeschool community for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, rooted in nature-based learning throughout the Worcester, MA area. Created for families who value slower mornings, mess, and meaningful connection, our co-op offers a shared space where learning unfolds naturally — just as it does in the wild.
Our weekly gatherings take place outdoors, where children are free to explore, observe, create, and move at their own pace. Activities are intentionally open-ended and play-based, supporting intrinsic motivation by allowing children to follow their interests, test ideas, and engage deeply with the world around them. Rather than directing outcomes, we trust the learning process—letting curiosity, seasonal rhythms, and lived experience guide each day.
Through nature play and gentle structure, children strengthen fine and gross motor skills, practice communication and collaborative play, and engage with early academic concepts in meaningful, hands-on ways. Creative projects often use natural materials, while conversations and shared moments build language, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Each gathering is thoughtfully held to support both independence and community.
AGE: 0 - 5 Years (younger & older siblings welcome)
LOCATION: Worcester, MA
DURATION: Year Round, Starting June 1st, 2026
DAY & TIME: Mondays 9:30 am - 11:30 am
GROUP LEADER: Caitlin Surabian
COST PER FAMILY: $240/season (every 3 months)
PINECONE PALS
how it works...
As a nonprofit organization, we rely on membership donations and community partners to keep Ocean State Kids thriving! Your membership is more than just a fee—it’s essentially a donation. This contribution helps us remain sustainable, cover operational costs, and expand our offerings so we can continue to serve children and families for years to come. We strive to keep weekly costs affordable, averaging $5–$12 per week, depending on the Membership Donation plan you choose. Please note that Memberships become available when families forfeit their participation or new groups start in new locations. Because memberships fund vital program expenses that are budgeted and paid for in advance, they are generally nonrefundable. If a group is unavailable, please join the waitlist here.
memberships
MONTHLY Available for families who prefer flexibility and offered to accommodate dynamic needs. Approximately $12 per week billed every 30 days. *Only available during the summer months.*
SEASONAL (Most Popular) The most common Membership Donation is the Seasonal Membership, which approximately $12.50 per week and is billed every 3 months.
YEARLY This option is ideal for families who are committed to Ocean State Kids and envision a long-term future with us. Approximately $10 per week and billed annually.
ALL ACCESS This option is for families that are full-timers! Allows your family to visit any group, any day of the week. Approximately $19 per week billed annually.
Weekly outdoor programming designed and led by volunteer Group Leaders.
•
All necessary materials and supplies for crafts, learning, and play.
•
Comprehensive liability insurance to keep families safe.
•
Operation cost for to the OSK Mobile App for meetup details, group chats, and resources.
•
Community building initiatives that connect parents and children.
•
Planning and development for engaging, nature-based activities.
•
Site rental fees and permits for parks, farms, and nature preserves.
•
Special guest appearances (artists, musicians, storytellers, etc.)
•
Ongoing administrative support for registration and website maintenance.
•
and general growth of the OSK nonprofit and future developments.
•
what your membership covers
SPECIAL MOMENTS
YOUR GROUP LEADERS
NATURE GUARDIANS
Caitlin Surabian
Caitlin is excited to be a leading a group for Ocean State Kids all the way in Central Massachusetts. She is based in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, and the mother of two sons. Homeschooled throughout her own childhood and into high school, Caitlin developed a deep appreciation for child-led learning, curiosity, and education rooted in real-world experiences.
She holds a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders as well as a license as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant and has professional experience working in both a school and clinic setting, where she planned and facilitated small social groups and supported children’s social and communication development.
Caitlin also taught English as a Second Language in China, broadening her perspective on education and cultural approaches to learning. Through her work in the public school system, she came to realize that traditional classroom settings were not the environment she envisioned, particularly for her boys - and solidified her desire to homeschool her children.
Caitlin hopes to bring together her educational background, personal experience, and passion for play-based learning to create meaningful and enriching experiences for the children in her group.