How to Join a Homeschool Co-op

Homeschoolers enjoy the freedom homeschooling brings when it comes to curriculum, scheduling and hands-on educational guidance for their kids. However, most homeschoolers know the importance of having a good support group. Homeschool co-ops provide resources for team teaching and field trips, to graduations and brainstorming. Finding a good co-op is a great way to supplement your child's homeschool education.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Contact your local church and inquire about homeschool groups in the congregation. Most large churches have a co-op or can give you the name of one.

2. Talk to your friends who are homeschooling. Get advice from them about groups they belong to and their effectiveness.

3. Attend homeschooling conferences in your area. These conferences provide a wealth of information about homeschool co-ops.

4. Search for homeschool co-ops at local curriculum fairs. Homeschoolers like to get together at curriculum fairs and exchange ideas and curriculum plans with other homeschoolers. They will also have information about homeschool co-ops local to you.

5. Look online for homeschool co-ops that welcome new members.

6. Visit homeschool websites like the American Homeschool Association (see Resources, below). This group provides a list of resources and tells how you can get information about homeschooling in your area.

Tips & Warnings

• Homeschooling is most effective when a variety of educational experiences are provided. Homeschool co-ops can give the homeschooler invaluable resources by helping group members save time and money.
• Don't go homeschooling alone. There are many homeschoolers out there who are willing and ready to share ideas and suggestions to make your child's homeschooling experience a success.

Resources

• The American Homeschool Association.

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[angdonnie]

on 9/26/2008 Great ideas, Thanks!!