Homeschool Encouragement:

Plan a Moms' Dinner

Homeschooling co-ops provide encouragement and activities and opportunities. They are almost as necessary for homeschool Moms as they are for the children. In fact, perhaps they are more so. For if we Moms enjoy friendship and receive support for our mission (i.e. homeschooling!) we are much more content and secure...and we all know if Mom is happy, then so is everyone else.

"Friends warm you with their presence,
trust you with their secrets,
and remember you in their prayers."

Of course, the ways in which Moms can get together are infinite. But homeschooling Moms are busy so time is at a premium. Because of this consideration, one way has proven particularly feasible and fruitful.

On a regular basis, Moms meet at a local restaurant solely to socialize. Many times I've heard Moms exclaim, "This night out came at just the right time. I needed a break!" or similar sentiments.

Technicalities:

* Time: Try once or twice a month depending on the members.
Usually meet at 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.--so Dad can take over the home front--or one can secure a babysitter

*Who: Not all members of the homeschool support group can make every dinner, so don't expect a large crowd. The important thing is that those who really need and/or want to participate can do so. We regularly have Moms who only order a dessert or a drink but join the rest for the companionship.

*Place: A less expensive, quiet, sit-down restaurant is good choice with which to begin. A good example is Perkins. From the initial get-together, experiment. Maybe one person from the first dinner will plan the second--gather a consensus about the next restaurant, let people know and make reservations, if necessary.

There is no agenda, except to enjoy the meal and each other's company. Naturally, home education usually comes up in conversation and problems are robustly addressed. Besides brainstorming, this gathering allows us to form friendships with individuals, not just "other Moms." We can talk about our lives, interests, travels (or dreams of) and any and all other topics. We can offer encouragement. Lifelong friendships are formed.

Dinner together soothes and energizes the soul. So guess who else benefits? Of course...our husbands and children.

Find Encouragement in the Bible

Homeschool Co-ops

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