Homeschool socialization

United States
May 19, 2007 3:08am CST
As a homeschooling mom who was homeschooled I absolutely hate the whole "socialization" issue. Most homeschoolers (those who aren't totally isolated) have NO problems with socialization. As a matter of fact, most homeschooled people have BETTER socialization than those who went to school. Schools teach false socialization. They teach how to socialize with children who are within 1 year in age with you. When do you run into that in the real world? Hardly ever. Your boss, your co-workers, your neighbors, they are going to be people of various ages. Homeschoolers are more able to communicate and socialize with people in a wider age range than those in public schools who are only around people very close in age to themselves. As for activities that "help" a child remain "social?" That's easy. Scouting, church youth groups and Sunday school, classes (my children were in gymnastics but have now switched to karate) homeschool support groups (many have activities throughout the year for students to get together), or just go to your local McDonald's that has a PlayLand or the local playground. Chilren are naturally social by nature, we do not have to interfere and "create" social environments for our children, they'll do that all by themselves. Let your child lead you.
1 response
• United States
16 Jul 08
I love love love your post. I don't think enough people realize this momof3. They don't understand that we homeschoolers don't sit inside, cooped up all day long away from the world. Our children run errands with us, have groups throughout the week, play with friends in the neighborhood and participate in "afterschool" sports and other activities. So many people believe that children should be around children of their own age. I love a homeschool book I read ( I can't remeber exactly which one it was) which told a little joke. The author said what do you get when you put a group of 7 or 8 year old boys in a class room: you get a bunch of fools. Ha! I thought that was so funny. It is so true. Along with that "socialization" you get alot of unsupervised time. I'm not trying to shelter my children. I am trying to keep misinformation from making it into their little minds. When they are with their mother most of the day, they can have soooo many things explained that go unexplained in a classroom or playground. Ok enough of my 2 cents. Take Care!