Surround Yourself with Encouragement

Never Go It Alone

February 22, 2019

Have you noticed how much easier it is to stick with something (diet, beliefs, hobby, exercise) if you are in it with someone else? A partner or a group provide accountability and encouragement.

The same is true with your homeschool journey. Surrounding yourself with a community of homeschoolers will help you stay the course for the long haul.

There are numerous connection points available for homeschoolers. You can search for existing groups locally, regionally, and online.

Locally

Meet-ups and Home Gatherings

You may know some homeschoolers who live near you. See if they meet regularly for camaraderie or to discuss specific topics. Even sporadic gatherings are encouraging and informative.

Every family approaches an issue from a different perspective. Hearing from others can open your eyes to possibilities you’ve never encountered. It can help you determine your focus: “I’m glad that works for them, but it wouldn't work for us because…” Or, “That sounds like a perfect fit for us!”

You can swap stories and resources, peruse curriculum and fill up your encouragement tank for the school months ahead.

Co-ops and Classes

Some families love the structure and social engagement found in a co-op or homeschool class. Often the parents share the responsibilities of teaching, childcare and leadership. The whole group benefits.

Field trips are often arranged via this avenue. It can supplement your home teaching. And you don't have to think about such things as art, music or Latin. Especially if those aren't your areas of expertise. Co-ops do take time and commitment, but you may find that it’s more than worth it.

Regionally

Conventions

These large gatherings are a great reminder that you are not alone. Going with a group of friends provides a great time of fun.

Speakers provide knowledge and experience at workshops. Vendors provide every book or supply you never knew you needed. While all the booths and vendors can be overwhelming, going with a list will help you stay focused.

Often there is special pricing for conventions. And you won't have to pay shipping. The fact that you can browse through books can be invaluable for determining if they are right for you.

Videos

You can now find workshops, conferences, and training on video through Youtube or by ordering from homeschool websites. The cost is often cheaper than attending a convention and is wonderful for viewing with a group in your home.

Online

Groups

Back in the day, I could get lost in a rabbit trail of Yahoo Groups. There are still a lot of discussion forums that supply a wider range of "we're in this together," especially if you need connections within your specific method.

Also, moms who have older kids are valuable for sharing insight because they've been where you are. So reach out through some old-fashioned forums.

Blogs

The blogging community adds regular content which informs, encourages and provides a bit of humor. Many times they feature free lessons or worksheets as well as paid services which could be of great use to you.

Social Media

Is there anyone not on at least one of these: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, etc? Social Media can be great for getting questions answered quickly and finding out what's going on in the homeschool world:

• Half-price tickets to the Medieval Fair on homeschool day!
• Kindle is offering a free e-Book today only.
• Who wants to get together for a picnic at the park?

Find the connections that works for you without overwhelming your life. Don’t go it alone. Surround yourself with encouragement.