How to Get Your Homeschooled Kids Socially Active

The number one complaint about homeschooling is that it is somehow hurting the children socially. Regardless if you agree or disagree, it is legal in all fifty states to homeschool. Parents who see the need to get their kids involved in things socially, will be pleasantly surprised that there is an array of opportunities awaiting your homeschooled child.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Join a homeschool group or co-op. They are all over the country. To find one, look online at a site like home-school.com/groups. There are also many Yahoo groups where you can interact and help each other out by posting local events, field trips, and activities for homeschoolers. Many of the activities with homeschool groups are free or cost very little.

2. Get involved with the recreation and parks or the YMCA in your area. Sign your child up for soccer or t-ball. Go to the practices and games and be sure you as the parent socialize with the other parents. Make play dates and suggest or help organize a team picnic.

3. Look for private businesses that have homeschool classes. Dance, Karate, and Art, just to name a few, are honing in on the homeschool market by offering classes during the day. Believe it or not, you and your child will start developing relationships. Encourage it and make an effort to continue friendships even after the course ends.

4. Be proactive. Don't sit back and wait for personal invitations. Get out there and show up to lots of things. Allow your child to participate in the homeschool science fair and go on the field trips. Have fun.

5. Get the family involved in church, if you have one. Take advantage of the picnics, religious education classes, and missions. Your child will naturally develop relationships with the other kids.

[frozenmocha]

on 8/13/2009 This is just what I'm looking for. I'm going to begin homeschooling in just a few short weeks and am nervous about him being without friends. I'll click on the links above. Thanks!