Since we moved to Florida and joined a homeschool group, I can see the value of being involved in such a group. When we lived in Michigan we weren’t involved in any sort of homeschool group and I really didn’t think it was necessary – but now I can see that I was wrong. Every family and every situation is different, but it definitely works for our family to be involved in a homeschool group.
Not everyone has ready access to such an organization, but I think there are some fairly simple ways to start your own homeschool group.
Ways to Start a Homeschool Group
-Pick a time and a place to meet. It doesn’t have to be set in stone, but you do need a plan so that you can tell people as you are gathering interest.
– Put the shout out on Facebook that you are looking to start a homeschool group. You have friends that have friends etc. Start a group on Facebook even if you are the only member for a short period of time. Make that group searchable at the beginning until you build a bit of a group.
– Check out Meetup.com – an easy way to find groups of like minded people in your area.
– Local library – start with asking the librarian, chances are she knows the homeschoolers in the area. Hang a flyer in the library and be sure to give it to the librarian as well!
-Parish/Church – put out the word at church, with the church secretary, and put a notice in the church bulletin.
-Local Park – If you are out during regular school hours and see other school aged kids, chances are pretty good they are homeschoolers. Go strike up a conversation and invite them to your group!
-Don’t be shy – basically mention that you are starting a homeschool group to anyone you run into. Don’t forget the gal who does your hair, any place where your children make take music or art lessons, carrying a flyer or card with you always.
-Once you have an active group of moms, you will slowly continue to add members.
It only takes a few dedicated ladies to get a group up and running. Often it’s better to have a small group of women who can make good and lasting relationships, rather than a large group where its hard to connect with other moms. I believe it’s vital for the success of your homeschool to be with other moms in the trenches. Homeschooling is a unique endeavor and has unique challenges.
Having like-minded women with which to share your joys and frustrations will make all the difference!
LDS-NHA has a support group website where you can register the group you are in or look for a group near you. http://www.lds-nha.org/support-groups/
Hello there!
I am visiting from my dear friend Patty’s blog…
Don’t know how I have never crossed paths with you before, but any friend of Patty’s is a friend of mine!
You have a beautiful family. : )
Aww, thank you so much and thanks for stopping by!
Yahoo groups are a great way to connect with the local homeschool community also. There are about three Yahoo groups for our metro area that send out notifications of events, open houses, classes, etc. It’s a great way to advertise, or start a group, too! You gave some great tips and resources!
Shannen recently posted…Always Make Progress in Faith, My Friend