Homeschool Socialization:
Are You Worried?

The topic of homeschool socialization usually comes up when people learn that you teach your children at home. I guess they worry that your children will not experience the "fun" of school. Your child might miss school birthday parties, valentine parties, recess, assemblies and the prom. Let see how you can help your child to socialize at home.

Definition

Socialization means to learn how to live in ones culture or to interact with other people. As a homeschooling family we teach about the culture and how to live in it.

Time

As homeschoolers we usually have more time for homeschool socialization. Homeschoolers are not tied to a school schedule so they have time for work, community service, or missions. Some families help out at food banks or retirement homes. Children in high school can work during the day and do their schooling when they get home.

Activities for Homeschool Socialization

My children have been involved in church and in AWANA's. In church and AWANA's they have learned to work in a group. They have also learned to be respectful to adults and other children.

Another activity that my children have enjoyed is going to camp. At camp they participated in activities that were new to them. They enjoyed going down water slides, playing paint ball, and riding horses.

We have also been involved in a homeschool co-op. The co-op was similar to a school setting. Each class in the co-op had multiple grades grouped together. There were also a lot of parents and younger children in the classroom. The parents kept their children under control. My children liked the classes, but I felt that it took too much of our time.

My children have never played sports but, many homeschool families do. I know families that are involved with little league and soccer.

There are also groups that your child can belong too. My children have been involved with Keepers at Home. Keepers at Home is a Christian group similar to girl scouts.

Some families are involved in Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Campfire Girls, or 4H. There is no end to the activities that homeschoolers do. To find groups in your area ask neighbors or friends. Also, look in the phone book or online for groups.

Some of the activities mentioned for homeschool socialization are the same ones that children from private and public schools enjoy. So your children have the opportunity to make friends with school children.

Special Needs

Your child with special needs can do a lot of the activities that other children can. You may have to educate adults that work with your child. Tell the worker what you child can do. If your child communicates in sign language, provide a list of common signs.

AWANA for Me A Guide to Working with Children with Special Needs is a book that teaches leaders how to include children with special needs.

Also make yourself available. Stay with your child, so that the worker can see how you interact.

For children with autism teach them social skills step by step. Give you child plenty of time to practice their new skill. Let your child practice their new skill in the family. Then have them practice with a friend. Later try having your child practice his social skill in a small group.

Mom's Time

When you consider homeschooling look at how you will spend your time. When your children are young you will need to be home in the daytime. If you can not be home you will need to take your children with you or find a babysitter.

You will be able to find companionship with other like minded parents when you join co-ops, sport groups or a homeschooling association.

A Warning

There are so many activities that you children can be involved in that you have to be careful that they are not out everyday. Don't neglect the three "R's". Pick and choose your activities wisely. If your family is sport minded do sports. If you like animals or cooking find a 4H group.

Homeschool socialization should not be something that is a cause for concern but something that is enjoyed.

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