Group Homeschooling

All homeschooling super-moms know that they can’t do it all alone. Asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, group homeschooling environments can be extremely beneficial for homeschooling families. It is a great way for kids to stay involved with kids their own age and develop social skills. It is a great way for parents to find support and get advice from other adults experienced in homeschooling. Since homeschooling is becoming more popular, group homeschooling is already present in a number of cities around the country. However, if it doesn’t exist in your area yet, do not fear because a homeschooling group is easy to set up yourself.

In a community that doesn’t have a homeschooling group, there is surely still a population of families that are homeschooling alone. This need can be met simply by reaching out to them. There is no one-size-fits-all standard for homeschooling groups, so they can be adapted to the needs of a particular community. Groups can be based on a religious affiliation, they can be open to all religions, or they can choose not to address religion at all. Similarly, the structure can vary across groups. Some areas may desire a structured group with set lesson plans and additional meetings to plan those lessons. Others may just want informal get-togethers and group play-dates, so find out what your community and your family need. Either way, it is important to appoint a leader, especially in the beginning. If a more formal group is needed, then writing rules and bylaws will be important. Newsletters as well keep all participants involved. A second leader may be helpful if the group expands to more than 10 or 15 families.

What is most important though is to find the need in your community. Get the word out by posting flyers in libraries, calling families in the area, finding homeschoolers in local churches, posting a listing in the town newspaper, and asking friends to spread the word. Statewide homeschooling support organizations can refer families to your group, so be sure to get in touch with organizations that can help publicize.

Once you have a following, start planning fun activities. Most groups start out small, focused around social outings, and then grow from there. Homeschoolers are looking for a community to bond with, so events don’t need to be complicated. Plan a day to the science museum, or have a weekly meeting at the park. These fun and educational trips are a much-needed break from a day in the classroom, and will attract more group members. The level of participation and the frequency of meetings are determined by each individual homeschooling group, so you can make of it what you want.

For the most part though, these groups already exist in most cities. Look for a group near you that can provide group lessons, fun excursions, or simply emotional support for families. But if there is nothing near you, then don’t be afraid to start one yourself.

Homeschooling is a challenge, but it can have outstanding rewards for yourself. At the same time, it can be reat for your child. Just be sure to take it very seriously and try to make an effort to separate your roll as an everyday parent with your roll as a home school teacher.


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