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Learn What Homeschool Resources Are Available in Your State
Homeschooling is a uniquely state-oriented activity, because legal requirements for homeschooling are set by the state. As a result, the opportunities and services available to homeschoolers may vary widely between states.
Some states have umbrella schools as required by statute, some rely on testing and/or evaluations for proof of progress, and some may have neither. Connecting with other homeschoolers who fall under the same homeschool regulations (IE other homeschoolers in your state) can help you to navigate the specific ways your state may be different from others. You will want to avoid the pitfalls of getting your information about homeschool requirements from the wrong sources.
Finding a community of like-minded homeschoolers in your area can be the difference between feeling isolated and drained and feeling empowered and encouraged. Whether that community comes in the form of homeschool co-ops, extra-curricular-based activity homeschool groups, or state-based associations with online groups, the ability to ask questions and share experiences makes homeschooling feel less lonely.
Benefit from Homeschool Co-ops and Groups
As Rebecca shares in "Homeschool Groups: To Join or Not To Join," some of the major reasons for joining a co-op or homeschool group near you include:
- Academic advice, support, diversity or expertise in teaching
- Socialization opportunities with same-age peers
- Exposure to curricula, resources, and ideas from other homeschoolers
- Structure and direction for the homeschool
- Extra-curricular activity options
- Emotional support from other homeschoolers
- Social networking
- “Traditional” schooling benefits such as experiencing a classroom setting, diplomas, dances such as prom, and graduation ceremonies
In addition to the groups and state resources listed in our local homeschool database (find them by clicking your state below and use the submenu to navigate to specific types of groups/activities), there are many other ways to find community as a homeschooler.
Maybe the type of community you are looking for doesn't exist in your area and you are thinking about starting your own co-op—Jeanne has advice in the form of 8 questions to ask to help you start a homeschool co-op. Just getting started homeschooling and wondering what a co-op is? We've got you covered with Jeanne's post "What is a Homeschool Co-op?" If you are homeschooling in a very rural area, you might be interested in forming the world's smallest homeschool co-op with another family.
If you have teens and have noticed that they do not want to participate in activities, you may want to share "The Truth about Attendance at Homeschool Activities for Teens" with the organizers of those activities in your local homeschool group and see if you can create some offerings that appeal specifically to older teens.
Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, whether you live in a city or rural area, whether your kids are just hitting school age or about to graduate, there is homeschooling encouragement and support to be found in community.
📚 Find a Homeschool Co-op Near You
🎨 Find Homeschool Arts & Sports Near You
👉 Find Other Homeschool Groups Near You
🚎 Find Homeschool Field Trips Near You
⚖️ Discover Homeschool Requirements in Your State
🎤 Find Homeschool Conferences & Events Near You
Homeschool conferences are a fantastic way to connect with other homeschoolers, see new resources in person, and find information and encouragement. Find a homeschool conference or event near you.
