From Dream to Dirt: The Heart Behind Salt and Sun Co-op
- Everyday Darling - Taylor
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
When we first moved to Charleston, I dreamed of days spent outside with my kids — toes in the sand, hands in the dirt, books read under dappled sunlight. I imagined learning through nature, surrounded by like-minded families who valued simplicity, connection, and wonder. But like so many dreams, it felt big… and a little lonely.
I craved community — not just playdates and park meetups, but something rooted. Something intentional. Something where mamas could show up just as they are and where our children could explore, learn, and grow with the rhythm of the seasons.
And so, over cups of coffee and conversations with a few incredible women, Salt and Sun Co-op was born.
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What Is Salt and Sun?
Salt and Sun is a nature-inspired homeschool co-op in Charleston, South Carolina. We meet outdoors — rain or shine — to learn through play, exploration, and connection. Our mornings are filled with books, crafts, nature walks, and messy hands. Our afternoons hold space for friendship, discovery, and the freedom childhood was meant to hold.
We’re not a curriculum-heavy group. We’re a mama-led, heart-first community that believes childhood is sacred and that learning happens best when it’s woven into everyday life.
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Why We Created It
We created Salt and Sun because we knew we couldn’t be the only ones craving more:
• More connection with other homeschooling families
• More intentionality in how our kids learn
• More freedom to let kids be kids — muddy feet, butterfly chases, and all
• More support for moms who are navigating this beautiful, exhausting, and deeply important role
We wanted to build something simple, but meaningful — a space where children feel safe and seen, and where mamas can breathe a little easier knowing they’re not doing this alone.
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What It’s Become
It’s become more than we hoped for.
It’s morning circles with favorite books. It’s shared snacks and bug hunts and measuring tape explorations. It’s birthday songs and lemonade stands and watching kids light up when they realize they’re learning — even when it doesn’t look like “school.”
And for us moms? It’s become a place of encouragement and laughter, text threads filled with ideas and grocery finds, and knowing someone else will be there — with coffee, an extra towel, or a listening ear.
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If You’re Dreaming of This Too…
You’re not alone.
Maybe your version of Salt and Sun is already blooming in your community. Maybe it’s just an idea in your heart. Either way, don’t be afraid to start small. Gather one family. Plan one meet-up. Go outside and read together.
You don’t need a formal plan. You just need the willingness to show up — and the courage to invite others to do the same.
Because community doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a book, a blanket, and the salty breeze of a Charleston morning.
@saltandsun_learning
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