The A to Z of Homeschooling Groups (part 2)
Previously we discussed A-F of homeschooling groups. Today we’ll cover G-M.
Good Communication
Communication is important in any setting that involves humans. (That narrows it down, don’t you think?) A homeschooling group is no exception.
- Leaders need to communicate with each other to keep the group running.
- Leaders need to communicate with the members to keep them informed.
- Members need to communicate with each other to fulfill the purpose of the group.
Without good communication, meetings would be chaotic, children would be running rampant during activities, and everyone would leave the group because of the stress.
Besides keeping a calendar and using social media or an email list (or both), many groups now use texting to communicate with each other.
When I first started homeschooling, phone trees were the chosen form of passing along prayer requests and other important info. Today, text messages are often used, as well as private messages and private groups through Facebook. (It’s much easier to type out a message on your computer than on your phone.)
Helping Hands
The members of homeschooling groups often become like a second family. Not only are they available for hugs at meetings, but they are also able and willing to bring meals to those who need it (due to a new baby, a death in the family, or illness).
They also often babysit for each other and offer to carpool to various activities.
If you belong to a homeschooling group and you’re not offering hands-on help to other members . . . why not?
Information
Do you have questions about homeschooling? Are you concerned about high school math, or getting into college, or maybe just about a different reading program? Being part of a homeschooling group will help you get answers.
Besides offering time to talk one-on-one with each other, many groups will have special speakers come in a few times a year to speak.
Jesus
Not every homeschool group will be founded on the Word of God, but many are. Group members will be there to encourage you and strengthen your walk with the Lord. There will also be ample opportunity for you to support and encourage the other members of the group.
Kids
This is why you’re joining a group, right? Because you have kids– children whom you homeschool.
Chances are, you’re looking for interaction for your children as much as for yourself. You will find it, and more, in a local homeschooling group.
As mentioned earlier, many groups offer field trips and holiday parties on a regular basis, as well as co-op classes.
Determine beforehand how much interaction you want to have and then stick to your plan by saying ‘no’ when you can’t attend.
Leadership
Homeschooling groups need someone to lead.
Depending on the size of the group, that may be one or two people, or it may be a whole team of individuals.
Get to know the leadership of any group you join. These are the ladies (and sometimes men) that have been on this journey for awhile. They are the veterans!
Those in leadership will have words of wisdom and advice when you need it, and they will be strong prayer warriors.
Meetings
Many groups meet once a month for a business meeting, while others meet once a week for activities.
I’ve even known of a few that meet every other month, and a few that meet only two or three times a year to discuss business.
However often your group meets, plan to attend the meetings. Yes, there will be times when you just can’t make it, but the group won’t be a benefit to you if the other members don’t know you– plan to attend the meetings! Get involved!
Another “monthly meeting” that many groups have is the Moms’ Night Out. Plan to attend these as well!
There is nothing more invigorating than spending a couple hours with like-minded women. You will be refreshed and rejuvenated after a Moms’ Night Out and it will give you renewed passion to continue this adventure called homeschooling.
Stay tuned for the next installment which will cover the letters N-S in this series about homeschooling groups!
