Answers for the Lonely Homeschoolers
Friday’s question was written by a mom who was worried about not having a good homeschooling community around her to be a part of. She was unsure if her kids would get plenty of chances to interact with other kids. I got some great comments from other homeschoolers on this question.
For some public schools offer more chances to be with other kids, and that is seen as a definite bonus. But for those who want to homeschool this can feel like a set back. What can you do if you live in an area that is not overflowing with other homeschoolers? Sharon J. gave a great comment on this:
What do kids in your area do during the summer months when school is out? If they are in sports or park district programs in the summer, it is a good time to meet the kids (and parents) and work out playdates during the school year.
If you really want to meet other homeschoolers, keep your eyes open. When you go to the library during school hours, do you ever see a parent with kids? Ask them if they homeschool. Your librarian may also know of others in your area. Keep you eyes open other places too. I know I like to run errands, like grocery shopping, etc., when school is in session and people are at work, so I can avoid crowds. We often meet others who homeschool doing the same thing.
Don’t overlook the internet as a source of networking and support as well. There are numerous yahoogroups where homeschoolers can meet and network with others that might be just one town over. For some who are truly isolated, the internet can be a valuable source of support from your virtual homeschooling friends.
When I made the choice that I was going to homeschool I did not know a single other homeschooler in my area. From my own experiences in school I knew that the mysterious “socialization” was not a major part of public schools as is thought. Sitting in a room with 25-30 other students that I cannot talk to is hardly a social experience. Because of this I was not worried about a lack of time playing with friends, I knew that would not happen in school either. I also knew that there would be plenty of time to play and make friends at the same time the children in school do. After school, weekends, breaks, and summer would provide plenty of free time.
And, as I am finding out, there are more homeschoolers in my area than I knew. They aren’t going to be running around with signs hanging from their necks, sometimes you will have to search for them.
homeschool, socialization, friends
August 4th, 2007 at 6:08 pm
That is a really good answer and also a good question. I worry about those same things whenever we have to move but I’ve found that if you just do a little digging you will find others.
August 4th, 2007 at 9:54 pm
I did not know a single homeschooler until I started. Then, suddenly, they are everywhere. Part of it is that tell-tale sign of multiple kids at the library during school hours. Or the three kids lined up at the dentist office working on school work while a fourth is in “the chair.”
I haven’t made many connections, however. We are in a different place, I guess. Most of them want to get together and leave the kids with the hubby’s while they chat over coffee. Sounds great, and what a wonderful way to spend an evening! Except my hubby doesn’t work the 9-5 shift, and I’m not dropping them off at a sitter so I can have a cup of coffee.
Now I’m rambling…but there are definitely a lot of groups out there if you look. You can also try going to yahoo groups and just googling homeschool + your state. You will likely find someone and they will be able to direct you to real people.
August 6th, 2007 at 9:26 am
I guess I don’t worry too much about the whole “socialization issue”.
We’re beginning our 8th year of homeschooling and I feel like we’re doing just fine. We are blessed with a large homeschooling comunity through our church, but it’s never been an issue for us.