Co-ops: Essential To Happy Homeschoolers!
Not a luxury or an extra to homeschooling, co-ops are essential, a necessity. As John Donne reminds us, "No man is an island." This is certainly true for the child/teen.
I am using the term co-ops interchangeably with support groups. However, the former tends to imply activities with children; the latter means emotional and practical help for us Moms. Both are important; both are addressed here.
According to Answers.com, there were an estimated 1.5 million children home-educated in 2000. Another source places the number at 2 million in 2001. At any rate, there are plenty of other home schoolers. They can be found through church, the state organization, a national group, the homeschool curriculum you use, even the 'phone book. There are usually several groups in a metropolitan area. Look until you discover the one that "fits." If necessary, start one yourself. Find a like-minded Mom or two and you're on your way.
(If you have trouble finding a local group, please contact me. I'll be glad to help.)
Surround your child with loving care. Isolation is a real danger. But--happily--it can be prevented/remedied.
While the child is young, group activities might be limited to a monthly holiday party.
But by the time a home educated child is nine or ten, getting together regularly with other homeschoolers is
imperative. Why? Joining an association helps fulfill the youngster's emotional needs.
- He knows he is not the only youngster homeschooled, there are others his age--and his parents are not the only ones who think it important. Thus, he and his family are not so weird.
- She feels part of a group. We humans are naturally social so it helps a child feel secure.
- Practically speaking, he is motivated to complete his school work. There is "fun" at the end of the week.
Besides fulfilling emotional needs, co-ops also provides social opportunities.
- The child can participate in parties and celebrations. Please check our the holiday ideas. They are festive, simple and appropriate for a group.
- She can meet others her age who homeschool.
- He can enjoy field days, game night, parties and other group activities.
Academics can also be "rounded out" by a variety of offerings.
- The child/teen can take enrichment or elective courses. ( book club, community service, drama, art classes, etc.)
- The family can be involved in a team teaching or
tutor
situation. The benefits here include increased motivation,
accountability and availing your child of others' expertise.
The list of opportunities is infinite, limited only by the imagination.
Minimal...Yeah!
Co-ops are vital. They support and enhance homeschooling. Through them, your child/teen discovers new emotional, social and academic opportunities
which, in turn, help him grow and develop, becoming his best, the person he was meant to be. This is truly the goal of homeschooling.
Please read the related articles:
List of Possibilities Guide and Checklist: Support Group Parties Valentine's Day Party! Columbus Day Party! Halloween Party! All Saints Day Party! Homeschool Party Games Geography Night Field Day Planning and Games Field Day Activities for Younger Siblings Field Trip Ideas End-of-the-Year Picnic
Summer Teen Activities True Story: The Importance of Support Groups Tutor/Team Teaching Kids' Activities Art Projects Yearbook Staff: Opportunity for Teens Book Club Meeting for New Homeschool Moms Regular Moms' Meetings Moms' Book Club Moms' Dinner Out! Return from Co-ops to Home
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