The Mid-Day Shift: Asheville’s Homeschool Recreation Hub

Posted on by Christo Bubenik
kids eating snacks on a bench

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) began providing youth recreation services nearly 100 years ago when the parks and playgrounds division was created in 1933. Summer playground programs led to summer camps, community center programs, and APR Afterschool over time. 

Continuing to respond to the needs of local families, APR started weekly Homeschool P.E. for ages 6-12 and twice-monthly REC-CESS for teens a couple of years ago. As these programs gained momentum, ideas for new programs grew out of listening to and learning from participants.

All programs are scheduled in late morning or early afternoon timeslots to help break up the school day. By weaving dedicated homeschool programs into the dynamic schedules of community centers, students get more than just new places to learn as APR builds familiar and supportive spaces for kids to grow.

Remember, APR doesn’t just offer youth and teen enrichment during the school day!

APR Homeschool Fall 2026 Programs

kid on an indoor climbing wall

Youth Homeschool Programs: Ages 6-12

Art Garage at Wesley Grant Southside Center

$10 | September 8-October 27, Tuesdays from 11am-2pm
Dive into a variety of mediums and techniques while exploring art history and different cultures. The community is invited to a gallery showcase on November 17 from 6-8pm.

Homeschool Tabletop Gaming Club at Tempie Avery Montford Center

$5 | September 11-December 11, Fridays from 12:30-2:30pm
This tabletop gaming club meets twice each month to play a new board game. Dates with games suitable for ages 10+ include September 11 (Catan), October 23 (Mysterium), December 4 (Lords of Waterdeep), and December 11 (7 Wonders).

Dr. Grant Gym Rats at Wesley Grant Southside Center

FREE | September 14-December 28, Mondays from 11:45am-12:45pm
A fun and active physical education program offering a variety of activities, games, and sports.

Learn to Climb at Tempie Avery Montford Center

$20 | December 3-17, Thursdays from 12-2pm
A three-week instructional indoor rock climbing class designed for beginners ages 8-12. A parent or guardian must attend and to belay their child.

teens playing a tabletop gameTeen Homeschool Programs: Ages 12-18

Homeschool Tabletop Gaming Club at Tempie Avery Montford Center

$5 | September 11-December 11, Fridays from 12:30-2:30pm
A tabletop gaming club that meets twice each month to play a new board game each time. Some games are suitable for ages 10-18 (click the title for game schedule).

Level-Up Hub at Grove Street Center

FREE | September 10-November 5, Thursdays from 1-3pm

Course I: Clay Dates (September 10-24)
An equal mix of art class and social club, this program is designed to take the pressure off “perfect” art and put the focus on creativity, connection, and tactile fun.

Course II: The Guided Garage (October 1-15)
Moving beyond the check engine light, this course empowers students to take ownership of vehicle safety, longevity, and performance through a blend of mechanical theory and driveway application.

Course III: True North (October 22-November 5)
In a world that is constantly changing, finding true north means developing a personal compass of values, respect, and self-assurance. This dives into core pillars of healthy human connection through hands-on activities, open dialogue, and collaborative challenges.

Explore More with Asheville Parks & Recreation

These are just a few of the many programs, activities, and special events taking place in Asheville parks and community centers every month! Programs fill up fast and many require advance registration, so it’s worth spending some time planning which activities and events to attend. Use these resources to discover additional opportunities: