By: Jenney Cheever
Homeschool resources are often as close as your local downtown. A common misconception about homeschooling is that it takes place primarily at home. In reality, most homeschoolers spend a good deal of their time out and about in the community, participating in various activities to enrich their educational experiences. If you're just getting started with homeschooling, there are a few nearby places to look for educational opportunities and support.
- Homeschool support groups: Joining a homeschool support group is one of the first things new homeschoolers should do. While there is quite a bit of variation in activity levels among different groups, generally you will find that most groups offer lots of chances to get together with other homeschooling families to share ideas and socialize. Good groups offer planned educational events, such as science fairs, book discussion groups and community projects. Many groups even offer classes taught co-op style by parents with different areas of expertise. Becoming an active member of your local homeschool group will greatly enrich your homeschooling experience. You can find a local group in your area by searching localhs.com or homeedmag.com/wlcm_groups.html.
- Your local library: This is the single most valuable homeschooling resource available. In addition to unlimited access to free books, reference materials, educational resources and educational videos, most local libraries also offer free passes to museums, aquariums and zoos. Many libraries also offer a variety of special programs for children, such as book groups, story times and special performances. Become a regular at your local library and get to know your librarians; they'll help you find the homeschooling resources you need.
- Local parks: What better way to study nature is there than to be in the great outdoors? Local parks can be an invaluable homeschooling resource to help you teach your children about nature, biology, ecology and more. If you are lucky enough to live near a state park, you may be able to find ranger-led educational programs.
- Museums: There are all kinds of museums just waiting for you to take advantage of the educational opportunities they have to offer. Seek out the museums in your area, including children's museums, history museums, science museums and art museums. Many museums offer free or low-cost educational programs to help you make the most of your experience. To get the most out of this homeschooling resource without breaking your budget, look into money-saving museum memberships as well as free passes from your local library.
- Local service professionals: In many communities, local police and fire departments are happy to give homeschoolers tours of their facilities, as well as teach a little bit about safety and how the departments work in the community. This is a great way to enhance your social studies lessons.
Do some research in your own community, and you are sure to find a host of homeschooling resources that will support and enrich your homeschooling life.
