This post is from contributor Sharla Kostelyk
By its nature, homeschooling can at times feel like you are an island. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
There are many reasons homeschool moms need other homeschool moms:
Support
It is wonderful to have a support network of other homeschoolers. This support is especially helpful in times of difficulty.
To find homeschoolers in your area, you can do an internet or Facebook search to see if there are any groups nearby. You can also ask at the library or local information center. Even if you live in an area where there are not many homeschoolers, it is important to build a support system.
There are many online support groups for homeschool moms. I encourage you to reach out and find others online who have things in common with you, such as your homeschool method or philosophy. These relationships can be very rewarding.
Encouragement
Homeschooling seems to have seasons, and there are times when discouragement can rear its ugly head. It is especially important during those hard times to have the encouragement of moms who “get” it.
Idea Sharing
While there is certainly no shortage of ideas shared online, sometimes it’s nice to bounce ideas off someone or ask what has worked well for them. Brainstorming is another perk of knowing other homeschoolers.
Advice
Hearing advice from veteran homeschoolers is invaluable. For a new homeschooler, asking about specific scenarios or curriculum or homeschool methods provides the chance to hear from someone who has been there and has experience.
Veteran homeschoolers can also benefit from newbies! The excitement of new homeschoolers is contagious and can help veterans to get reenergized and remember why they started homeschooling in the first place.
Fellowship
Homeschool moms can understand the joys and the frustrations, the blessings and the challenges in a way that others cannot possibly. Fellowship and prayer with others who are teaching their children can be a rich experience.
Opportunities
Forming relationships with other homeschool moms opens the door for opportunities such as organized group field trips, events, and play dates. Our local homeschool group organizes many get-togethers and field trips that are opportunities for my kids to spend time with other homeschoolers and also give me the chance to get together with other homeschool moms.
These are just some of the many reasons that homeschoolers need other homeschoolers. How have you benefitted from your relationships with other homeschoolers?
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I would love to post this on my homeschool group email loop. Would that be ok?
I think, better yet know, it is important for us homeschooling Moms to stick together and encourage one another. I’m going through a difficult time right now and feel discouraged. I need someone to come and remind me of what I’m doing right instead of me reminding myself of what I’m doing wrong.