So why Homeschooling? And How a Co-op Can Make It Even Better?
Homeschooling has become increasingly popular since the COVID-19 pandemic; many parents began homeschooling during the lockdowns and decided to continue doing it, even after schools opened back up again. Many parents are curious or want to homeschool but aren’t quite sure where to start, and many are already homeschooling and wondering how to give their kids the social connections they would have otherwise been getting in school. I have personally met many parents trying to navigate their way through homeschooling terrain that is largely dominated by religious homeschooling. So I’d like to break it down: what homeschooling is, why families choose it, and why joining a homeschool co-op or community can be the secret ingredient to a thriving homeschooling journey.
So, what is homeschooling?
Homeschooling is exactly what it sounds like—teaching your kids outside the traditional school system, often at home. But it’s so much more than that! Homeschooling gives families the chance to create a learning environment that fits their needs. This means that homeschooling allows parents to tailor their children’s education to their children’s needs, not the needs of thirty of their peers.
Instead of following someone else’s schedule or curriculum, you get to decide how, where, and what your kids learn. Want to spend mornings diving into science experiments and afternoons exploring nature? Go for it! Prefer a slow, relaxed approach to the day? That works, too. Homeschooling is about flexibility and meeting kids where they are.
Why do families choose homeschooling?
Families homeschool for all kinds of reasons. Homeschooling allows for a greater flexibility in both your daily schedule but also in what you teach your children. You can adapt learning to your family’s rhythm instead of trying to squeeze life into someone else’s timetable. But beyond tailoring your schedule to your own needs, homeschooling allows for personalized learning. Every kid is different. Some kids love to dive deep into specific subjects, while others need a little more time or a different approach. Homeschooling allows you to teach in a way that works best for your child.
Homeschooling also creates time for a deeper family bond. Homeschooling is a wonderful way to spend more time together as a family. Learning side-by-side often leads to unexpected conversations, shared discoveries, and a closer bond. Children attending a traditional school system are spending most of their time away from their family and only stopping to connect with them in the evenings. But homeschooled children spend more time with the people who love them the most, their family. This dedicated time together allows parents to teach their children their own values. Whether it’s focusing on kindness, curiosity, or your unique family values, homeschooling gives you the freedom to shape your child’s education in a way that feels right for you.
Finally, homeschooling allows children to be raised in a healthier environment, free from bullying and peer pressure. In this environment parents can priorotize maintaining a balanced lifestyle, one that prioritizes their childrens wellbeing over the wellbeing of the collective. For some families, homeschooling means less rushing, more time outdoors, and a chance to enjoy a slower pace of life.
But isn’t homeschooling lonely?
It can be—if you try to do it all on your own. That’s where homeschool co-ops or communities come in, and honestly, they’re a game-changer.
A homeschool co-op is a group of families who come together to share resources, support, and learning opportunities. Think of it as a team of like-minded parents and kids, all working together to make homeschooling even better.
Most homeschool parents actively reach out to connect with other homeschool parents. Many also join co-ops because co-ops offer so much that educating your children alone just can’t. Co-ops allow us to share our skills and outsource our weaknesses. Let’s be real—you can’t be an expert in everything. Maybe you’re great at teaching reading but not so confident about science experiments. In a co-op, parents pool their talents. One parent might lead an art project while another handles a history lesson. Everyone benefits!
Co-ops also give children a chance to have social time with other children. Kids need time with friends, and so do parents. A co-op gives your kids the chance to interact with peers, and it’s a great way for parents to connect, too. Some co-ops form a community that exchanges babysitting for when mom needs a break from her kids to go to an appointment. Deep down, a homeschool co-op provides a support network for families. Homeschooling can feel overwhelming at times. Having a community to share ideas, celebrate wins, and troubleshoot challenges makes all the difference.
Finally, homeschool co-ops provide kids with experiences they couldn’t get with just their parents. Co-ops expose kids to different teaching styles, group activities, and projects they might not get at home. It’s a great way to balance independent learning with group dynamics. It is truly the best of both worlds.
Homeschooling on its own is a beautiful journey, but adding a co-op makes it even richer. It’s the perfect balance of freedom and community—giving you the space to tailor your child’s education while also connecting with other families who “get it.”