Programs

MAHC aims to be a welcoming mixed-age learning community for the whole family. We are a member-driven organization, and we seek feedback and adjust our offerings to the needs of our families.  We currently meet on Mondays in a lovely indoor/outdoor space at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum.  Our typical schedule is:

9:30-9:45 Arrival and Opening Circle
9:45-10:45 Choice of First Period Class
10:45-11:00 Break
11:00-12:00 Choice of Second Period Class
12:00-1:30 Lunch and Flex-time 

MAHC offers a mix of structured and unstructured activities. Our program is built on the idea that every member of our community has something to share and adults and youth can learn from each other and alongside each other. Each year, our board surveys adult and youth participants to match youth interests with topics on which adults are willing to facilitate classes. Some teachers are relative experts in their class topics, while others are hobbyists or even learning about their subjects right along with their students. Every semester is different, but in the past we have hosted classes in:

 Zoology, Phenotype Photography, Architecture, Woodworking, Volunteering, Historic Handicrafts, Foraging, Science of Cooking, Process Art, Spanish, Beginner and Advanced Sewing, World Building Games, Aeronautics, Japanese Culture and Origami, Korean Culture, Jewelry Making, Science, Robotics, World Religions, Introduction to the Law, Cardboard Creations, and Paper Circuits 

Each week we have teaching assistants and a general helper who support the classes. Caregivers stay on site but are free to relax or work when they are not signed up for a volunteer role. Our last hour is spent enjoying lunch with friends, in free play and occasional adult or youth-led workshops. MAHC also offers several social days over the course of the year during co-op which have typically included an Earth Day celebration, handmade market, Halloween parade, Valentine’s Day social, career day, and field days. 

We encourage potential members to read the handbook for more information before applying for membership.