As parents, we love our children dearly, but sometimes we just need to be around other parents. Homeschooling can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Connecting with other homeschoolers is helpful because everyone can band together to encourage and educate each other and just hang out, both online and offline.

There are several ways to connect with other parents, from local support groups to online Facebook groups. The Internet has been a tremendous tool in recent years by making it easier and more accessible.

I asked the COAH Community, a new forum created by Confessions of a Homeschooler, about any tips about how to connect with other homeschoolers.

Here are their responses:

Facebook is certainly a wonderful tool. I belong to a private Facebook group for homeschoolers who have children with my daughter’s genetic disorder. How they learn is a little different than the typical child, so it helps to have others in a similar situation to offer suggestions.

Local co-ops. You can google info and find out where they are. Many churches also offer support groups or links to homeschool groups in the community.

HSLDA also has a links page where you can look up state/region.

Websites like this one, which offer a forum, are also very helpful. The best sites have veteran homeschoolers and “newbies” communicating. There is no “right” way to homeschool and everyone comes to it from a different perspective. I’m a better homeschooling parent because of the connection I’ve made with other parents.

Libraries. My local librarian is FANTASTIC. (We’re on a first name basis since I’m always in there). She knows I homeschool, and has made an effort to link me to other parents in our community. She also knows when special events are being held (and not just at the library) so she is a valuable source of info! – KathiJohnson

We have found “MeetUp,” and use it for learning, fun and social time. The kids have really enjoyed the activities and I get a chance to talk to other moms. We belong to three and the cost ranges from $5-10 per year.
– bezona

Our library has a homeschool group once a week where everyone meets up and the librarian will teach the kids something different each week.

We are also part of two other homeschool groups where we go on a lot of different field trips.

And of course there are the co-ops, which we are not a part of yet, but maybe will someday soon!
– mommylove2015

I would say this SO depends on your area and if you belong to a homeschool association etc. We are part of a homeschool board that has over 600 kids. There are many events you can attend and over time you begin to get to know other families. I think connecting with like minded people is so important! I remember chatting with another mom at an event a few times. I only knew her first name, but I knew we would click if we spend more time together. I hunted her down on Facebook – sending her a message that I thought we should be friends. It is over a year later and we get together at least once a week and our kids really enjoy each other.
– Mlott

There is a homeschool group in my area that I belong to. It is around 175 families. If you have a group in your area, I recommend joining. It is so wonderful to have events to share with other homeschoolers, graduations, field trips, co op classes. The fellowship with other homeschool mom’s is such a blessing, I am so thankful I have the group.

I would highly recommend staying connect with other homeschoolers any way that you can.

This forum is a great resource by the way. Look how much we are supporting each other already.
– kathleennj

Check online, local schools, or at your local churches to see if they offer a homeschooling co-ops and support groups. Start up a monthly LEGO club, or science club. There are so many fun things you can do to meet other homeschooling families. Connecting with others can go a long way in staying encouraged in your homeschooling journey!
– erica

Share your tips in the comments.

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