One of the best moves we made as a homeschool family was to establish a homeschool support group. At the onset, we were simply a group of families who planned field trips, met for “physical education” classes, shared ideas and supported one another through the rewards and the struggles. As the years passed, we began to work together to provide specialty courses for our kids:

• Science labs
• A study of Shakespeare (my passion; therefore my course)
• Writing and Research
• Public Speaking
• Art
• Book Clubs
• Sports teams

The list could go on and on. We worked together using our various specialties to provide ample opportunities for our kids.

But it benefited more than just the kids.

By scheduling regular times to meet-sometimes formal, sometimes not-we parents were able to network with one another. We shared ideas, discussed our frustrations, held each other accountable and became close friends.

If you are jumping into homeschooling without established friends or acquaintances who already homeschool, be sure search out a group in your area.

How do you find them?

A good place to start is in your church. Although homeschooling has grown well beyond the religious community, statistics indicate that the majority of homeschoolers do so for religious reasons.

• Another place to begin looking is in local history or science museums, which often offer homeschool workshops or classes
• Check into your local YMCA, ice skating rink, gymnastics instruction, or youth theatre. Often these organizations offer special classes for homeschoolers or work with serious athletes who homeschool in order to gain the flexible schedule they need.
• Search the Internet-often homeschool events are posted on the net

Another terrific way to network is to consider enrolling in a homeschool academy like Bridgeway Academy, where you can pick up the phone or drop an e-mail to your advisor whenever you need help, tips or advice. In many cases your advisor can also point you to support groups or other homeschoolers in your area.

So go ahead, jump in and get started-but try not to do it alone!

Go directly to Starting Homeschooling Step Six-Explore Your Child’s Interests

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