A support structure is always important for parents and families. It is nice to have a safe place to share frustrations, joys and accomplishments and enjoy fellowship. Homeschooling families greatly benefit from support groups. Homeschool support groups offer relationships and connections that are hard to find anywhere else. Members can pool resources for field trips, co-op classes, physical education, curriculum and celebrations. Friendships are established not only with the children of the group but also with the parents.
Finding the Right Group
Homeschool support groups are as diverse as churches. It is important to find a homeschool support group that best fits your family. Some groups focus on relationships. Other groups may focus on educational activities. The first thing you need to consider is what you are looking for in a homeschool support group.
Are you looking for a small, medium or large group?
Small groups are easier to get to know everyone in a relatively short time. Larger groups can have more resources at their disposal. There are positives and negatives to every size. Some groups even cap their membership at their own ideal size such as 25 or 40 families.
Do I want a group with a religious affiliation?
Some groups are affiliated with a particular church. If you attend the church, this can be a positive. The downside is the group is often bound by church leadership approvals and insurance policies.
Other groups identify themselves with a religion without being affiliated with a particular church such as Christian, Baptist, LDS or purposely non-religious groups such as secular homeschoolers. Most groups will have written material regarding group beliefs. Be sure to view these to make sure you are comfortable with the group’s world views.
What type of homeschool activites does the group offer?
Remember, most homeschool groups are run by volunteers. The more helping hands, the better the group. Check to see what activities are offered by the group such as:
- Group activities (park days, parties and celebrations, mom’s nights, family trips)
- Clubs
- Field trips
- Co-op classes
- Cultural events
Visiting Groups
Once you have determined what you want in a homeschool group, start visiting local groups. Usually a group will have an email or phone contact person that will give you details about the next function you can visit. You can usually get support group information from your state organization’s support group page. Most groups that are established and open for membership will be listed.
HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) has a list of state organizations here: http://www.hslda.org/orgs/default.asp. If you go to your state organization link, you should find a list of local support groups.
A couple of ending tips:
- Don’t just visit one time unless you are certain you have walked into the perfect group for your family. You cannot get a good feel for the dynamics of a group in one visit.
- Don’t go simply off of your children’s first opinion. A homeschool support group is a family choice. I have seen too many families that arrive for a first park day only to have their child demand to leave within 30 minutes because they did not find a friend. It takes time to establish relationships. Prepare your child for this. If your child does not have a siblings to play with, see if you can arrange for a cousin or friend to visit with your child to ease social anxiety.
