Although some people say that homeschoolers are not socialized, this statement makes no sense. Homeschoolers have plenty of ways to get involved in the social realm. Just because “socialization” doesn’t look the same for everyone, it doesn’t mean it does not happen. However, if you’re looking for more ways to incorporate socialization into your homeschooling curriculum, give these ideas a shot.
- Start a CO-OP– If your area doesn’t have a homeschooling co-op already, why not go ahead and give one a try? You can start it yourself and have just as good results as anyone else. The key is to make it an inviting and refreshing time for those you invite. People don’t want to attend a homeschooling event and leave feeling drained.
- Have friends over- Like I said, homeschooling and socialization looks different for everyone. One thing you can do to incorporate socialization into your homeschooling curriculum is to invite friends over. The more the merrier whenever you’re learning. Am I right? Get a system in place and invite your friends over whenever your family needs to do so.
- Go on a field trip- If everyone is feeling a bit of cabin fever due to homeschooling, schedule a field trip. There are always tons of free field trip options. It’s just a matter of where you want to do. Make sure you invite friends along, so you can make this a perfect opportunity to socialize and get involved with other homeschooling families.
- Have a friendly competition- If your homeschoolers and those around you are looking for a little social fun, put together a friendly competition. The competition can be anything from an obstacle course to a 5K. Whatever you decide, make it fun and have fun preparing for it together.
- Have a cooking class- Cooking is a great way to get your homeschoolers excited about being social. Invite a few friends over and have a cook off. Cooking is an awesome opportunity to get to know someone else but to also learn. Don’t just pick something easy to cook, though, challenge your kids a little.
- Go to a homeschooling conference- Maybe you don’t have a lot of homeschoolers in your area. You can always go to a homeschooling conference to help you meet new homeschoolers in your area. It’s amazing how hard it can be to meet people who are into the same things as you. Doing something like this will help your whole family meet new homeschoolers. Plus, going to a homeschooling convention totally counts as part of your homeschooling curriculum.
- Help a neighbor out- Socialization can look may different ways. One way you can incorporate socialization into your homeschool curriculum is by helping a neighbor out. Get your kids excited about helping others.
- Arrange a FaceTime pen pal- If your family isn’t able to get out and do outside activities much, try to find a pen pal that is interested in doing FaceTime. It’s kind of like an old fashioned pen pal, but more modern.
- Hang out with the family- When it comes to socialization, there are no written rules when it comes down to it. You get to create the rules because you’re the one homeschooling. Hanging out with your family is a perfectly acceptable way to get more socialization. Try a family game night or just spend time talking and laughing with one another.
What are some ways you have incorporated socialization into your homeschooling curriculum? I’d love to hear your tips. It’s always nice to learn from each other, especially other homeschoolers.
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