Homeschooling and Socialization – Friends for your children
One of the things homeschool children often hear at home is that their home-educated children are not “socialized.” Public school seems to be the usual way for children to make friends and develop social behaviour, but this is by no means the only way. Some would argue that public schools are not necessarily the best way to socialize. So let’s look at homeschooling and socialization.
Let us see how you can help your home-educated child to interact with others and build healthy relationships.
1. Community activities
Discover what is happening around you and participate! Explore local theatre, choirs, clubs, art classes and other activities. Your local library is a good place to start – they are often the focus of community events. Many events take place in the library itself.
2. Religious communities
When you join a church, synagogue, mosque, or other religious community, you can help your child connect with others. Many religious centres offer group activities such as choirs, game evenings, camps and other events.
3. Home School Co-op
Another great way to help your child with homeschooling and socialization is to join an educational institution that works at home. These are groups of home-educated people who intervene to teach, plan events, or participate in other ways. Co-ops sometimes have courses – for example, a parent can offer a science or reading course. Another parent might suggest planning an excursion.
Community members can also participate. Experts like fire departments, police and others can provide fun information and activities. Cooperatives enable a variety of experiences and interactions.
4. Make excursions yourself
You do not need to be a member of a cooperative to plan excursions when it comes to homeschooling and socialization. When public schoolchildren are at school, sitting at their desks during the day, you and your homeschooled child can be at the local museum, talking and interacting with museum curators and visitors. These excursions can also be learning experiences: let your child take money for an excursion and use his mathematical skills to decide what to buy. Treasure hunts can be arranged with other children in the community or neighbourhood too.
5. Organize neighbourhood events
Does nothing happen in your community? Organize something! Neighbourhood children may want to run an animal show or participate in a day of cleaning. You could meet neighbours of your child’s age that you never knew and live near you!