I have been looking into joining a homeschool support group but have been hesitant to do so. I really don’t know what to expect from being part of one. I would love for my kids to enjoy a bit more group activities but wonder how much involvement is expected. I also don’t know how much time I, personally, will need to contribute. I’ve researched the benefits and have also read about the cons regarding the chance of over-scheduling and participating in too many things. Also there is the uncertainty of what activities these groups sponsor. Quite a few of the museums require 10 or more to have the classes even for homeschoolers so often we cannot participate in them due to this. But is there any way to know if a group participates in any of those programs. In order to know what they are doing you have to be a member. So what if you pay your fees and then find out there are no children in the group your kid’s ages or they don’t participate in things you are interested in? I am at a loss. I would love to hear about your experiences and how you decided what group to join. This is the first year I have even considered it and would really appreciate your opinions.
We are in a homeschool group (not co-op). I wish I had some suggestions, but our group lets people come without being a member. I would call or email and ask them if you can go to a couple of meetings/gatherings to see if it's a 'fit' for you and your family before you join. I would think they would allow that.
Also, we joined the group for a year before we became involved in leadership. We went to the outings for kids, and the monthly meetings, but that was it. We are now in leadership because we felt the Lord wanting us to be, and we enjoy it.
I would ask if you have to join to be involved, check out their website and ask others that are involved in the group.
Hope those suggestions helped.
JoAnn
Oh, and the kids love it. They love getting together and doing things with other kids. 🙂
We joined the big Christian group when we got here 8 years ago. However, with our special needs we never really fit in to any of the classes/field trips. I enjoyed the monthly meetings but, that was it. We also joined the secular group which in this area was much more low key. My oldest did take Japanese cooking class, geography classes, chess club and international culture club though that group over the years. In both groups there was very little required of me personally. However, this year I decided to start my own group for special needs kids. It is taking a bit of work to get off the ground. The first meeting is next Friday. I think it will be a good thing and is a place where there is a need. I would think there should be someone to talk to about each group that you can pick from to get an idea of the make up. It isn't right that you should have to pay with out knowing if you will fit in.
Blessings,
Dawn
I don't really know what to tell you either. We have a good group here, and I like to stay on their e-mail list, but I've found as the kids have gotten older that most of their activities are geared for younger kids. A's tutorial offers field trips and such, so I've found that a better fit for us. Good luck in the decision making!
~Kellie
Hey Ginny!
When I joined my homeschool group, they let me come on a trial basis for the first couple of meetings to see if it was what we were looking for or not.
I did not have to pay anything up front. These ladies welcomed our family with open arms. Nothing was required of me time wise, but because I saw the wonderful support, I began jumping in and helping.
Our group meets once a month, and also tries to host one field trip per month. It is at our discretion how much we go and how often we meet. Sometimes the moms get together and have a mom's night out and then sometimes we plan a park play date–for those who want to come.
Our price is only $20 per year and for all that is offered, I think it is a wonderful thing.
Maybe they will come and let you see if it is right for your family or not for a couple of meetings.
Take care!
Blessings,
Jennifer
I have struggled with this same thing for many years. We used to participate in our local group (when Ashley was little) but I quickly discovered that it was not a good fit for us (I always felt out of place there). Thanks to TOS and the SGL promos, I met up with the lady who runs the group in a neighboring county. We paid the dues last year, but never did anything with them. This year, though, we've already participated in a few field trips and had fun.
It's a hard decision to make.
Heidi