September is quickly approaching and I’m beginning to think ahead to the next school year. This year my children and I are joining a local homeschool co-op. Homeschool co-ops are a group of families with similiar interests and beliefs that get together to enhance their children’s education. Every co-op is different. Some may choose to focus on one subject, some may offer a broader range of topics to be studies. Some co-ops are for a narrow age range of children, while others will have classes for all ages. Some co-ops meet weekly, some bi-weekly and some monthly. Each co-op is different and is therefore able to best meet the needs of the families who are participating in the group.
One advantage to joining a homeschool co-op is that homeschooled children are able to participate in group learning. Children may learn to give reports in front of a group, participate in show and tell, or just read a story to a different group of children. A co-op could put on a play or start a band. Co-ops often offer a gym class or play group sports together. These are things that tend to be difficult for the smaller homeschool family. Children will also learn to take instructions from other adults. Co-ops are also a great way to get your children out and about with other kids. Another distinct advantage of a homeschool co-op is the support for parents. It is so easy to feel like you are all alone in your homeschooling world, and getting out with other homeschoolers can be so helpful. You can share ideas, troubleshoot, and just make friends with other parents that are interested in the same things you are.
Co-ops benefit both parents and children and can be a great way to enhance your child’s academic experience. To find a co-op in your area you should start with your local support group. If you don’t know of any local groups, try this website. You can also do a search of yahoo groups for “your city homeschool group” and you will probably come across a group that can point you in the right direction. If you can’t find a local co-op, or you just can’t find one that suits your needs, why not start your own? For information on starting a co-op, try this website or check out Homeschool Co-ops: How to Start Them, Run Them and Not Burn Out
Photo graciously provided by thejbird, through a Creative Commons license, some rights reserved
1 response so far ↓
Maddy // Aug 1, 2008 at 6:56 am
I had never heard of homeschooling co-ops until my pal joined one for one of her children with special needs. She found them incredibly supportive and a great resource, as well as a great source of social interaction.
Cheers
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