Thistlevale
Q & A
About Thistlevale
Who Can Join?
Thistlevale welcomes children, parents, and guardians alike! Kids under 13 simply need a parent or guardian’s permission and supervision. It’s a space designed for families to explore creativity, learning, and imagination together.
Is It Free to Join?
Yes! Membership is completely free. Some optional lessons or digital materials may be available for purchase later, but the heart of Thistlevale is open to everyone.
Do I need any special software or equipment?
You only need an internet connection and a web browser. For live events, a microphone and camera make participation easier. Cameras are required during orientation but optional afterward, with a parent’s or guardian’s permission.
Privacy and Safety
Why do I need a character name?
Using a character name helps protect your privacy and makes the experience more imaginative and immersive. It’s a fun way to step into your story world while keeping personal information safe.
Can I use my real name or post personal pictures?
We ask that you don’t. Keeping real names, photos, and personal details private helps everyone feel secure and keeps the focus on creativity and community.
Can I change my character name later?
Yes! If you’d like to change it, just reach out to a moderator or admin so your records stay consistent across the site.
How do you help children stay safe on the site?
We moderate all chats and events, provide a safety course for members, and never share personal information outside the platform. Guardians of all members also take part in a brief orientation course that helps us verify families and ensure no one joins under false identities, keeping our community a safe and supportive place to learn and grow.
Learning and Courses
What kinds of lessons are available?
Thistlevale offers a variety of continually expanding lessons and courses. We provide courses in many areas of life skills and creative development and are not limited to core concepts alone. Lessons are supplemented with creative writing, world-building, and other fantasy-themed educational activities. Our library of courses continues to expand, offering new ways to imagine, learn, and create.
What is the Internet Safety Course?
It’s a short, friendly course that helps members learn how to explore Thistlevale safely and respectfully online. Completing it ensures everyone understands how to make the community positive for everyone.
How will my child stay engaged in the lessons and courses?
Thistlevale is all about making learning fun! You or your child can earn points for completing lessons, joining community activities, and taking part in creative challenges. Finishing courses unlocks special badges, and the points you earn can be used for advantages in interactive games. These games are designed to use the skills learned in lessons within an imaginative, open-world fantasy setting—making every experience a joyful adventure in learning and discovery.
Community and Events
What are live discussions or events?
These are interactive group sessions and storytelling gatherings held online, led by moderators and community members. They’re designed to be creative, welcoming, and fun for everyone involved.
How do I join a group or event?
It all begins with joining Thistlevale Academy. Once you’ve completed the steps to become a member, you’ll gain access to our community platform, where you can explore the calendar and event pages. Everything is organized there so you can easily find and join activities that interest you—just click “Join,” and follow the simple instructions provided.
Can My child or I talk privately with other members?
All communication happens in supervised group spaces. Private messaging or sharing personal information is not allowed in Thistlevale Academy. This helps keep the community open and safe so everyone feels comfortable joining in.
What happens if someone breaks the rules?
Our moderators handle issues with care. Depending on the situation, they may remove posts, mute accounts, or, if necessary, remove a member. Our goal is always to maintain a kind, respectful, and safe space for everyone.
Purchases and Digital Items
Do I need to make purchases to fully experience Thistlevale Academy?
Absolutely not! Thistlevale is founded on free and accessible education for everyone. Anything that is listed as an option to purchase on the Thistlevale Academy site is supplemental and for your own personal enrichment. There is no need to purchase anything to enjoy the full benefits. The proceeds of purchases support the foundation, volunteers, and the needs of Thistlevale families and we always appreciate your support.
Are purchases refundable?
Digital purchases are final and non-refundable, so we encourage you to review details carefully before completing a purchase.
How do I access something I bought?
All purchases are handled through trusted third-party platforms such as Etsy or Amazon. After purchasing, you’ll receive easy download instructions from those providers.
Technical and Account Help
I forgot my password—what do I do?
Click “Forgot Password” on the login page and follow the link sent to your email to reset it. You’ll be back in quickly.
My child’s account is locked—why?
This may happen if the guardian orientation hasn’t been completed yet, or if an account is under review. Just reach out to us and we’ll help you resolve it right away.
Who do I contact for support?
You can email [email protected]. We are happy to help with any questions or concerns.
Parents and Guardians
How can parents participate?
Parents are an important part of Thistlevale! You’re encouraged to join your child in lessons, events, and creative projects. We also offer opportunities for guardians to lead or mentor—creating content, guiding workshops, or hosting discussions that enrich the whole community.
Do you collect any data from children?
We collect only what’s necessary for login and participation, and we comply fully with child privacy laws. You can read more about this in our Privacy Policy.
Can I monitor my child’s activity?
Yes. Parents can access their child’s account to view their work and social activity. We encourage this kind of shared engagement—it keeps everyone connected and confident in how the community operates.
You Can Find the Marketplace in Isenport
The earnings from the shops in Isenport is how we fund the site and help our families afford the materials needed for their homeschool experience.
Thank you for your support.