Yesterday, I went to a meeting of Homeschooling mamas.
Did you know that people do that here in Scottsdale? Well, homeschooling is growing a community filled with “normal” kids and families. You know what I mean by “normal”, right?… usually if I say “homeschooling”, you first think of a socially akward teenager who can’t carry on a conversation… well, you’d be wrong-o.
To discuss the topic of homeschooling in Scottsdale, five Scottsdale Moms sat on a panel and answered question after question from other moms considering homeschooling as the method to educate their brood.
The first question on the list?…
How do you ‘socialize’ your children?
Hmmm, the veterans had some GREAT answers and GREAT solutions to this question. The veterans talked about how MANY opportunities their children have to hang out, play or experience fun activities with other children. So much so, that these moms were joking about how they have to schedule days at home to study, read or just be.
But, if you are like me, you are still wondering… “Just HOW did they find some MANY opportunities and families in Scottsdale?” The answer was, “It’s organic.” By “organic”, they mean that the best way to socialize is to be social. (Ah, HA!) START attending field trip co-ops or play/social co-ops and from those Activity-Based co-ops (like this one), you and your children will develop relationships with other homeschooling families. From those friendships, then stem more Academic-Based co-ops. The ladies on the panel switch off with one another who is teaching history or science based on gifts of interests of the moms in the co-op. But, what is so amazing is that this is just ONE way to run a co-op (they even mentioned going in together to hire a Math or Science tutor).
Which actually brings us to the MORE important question, (which was addressed, but isn’t nearly as dicey) which is:
What is your goal for your child’s education?
Is it to get into a good college? Get a great job? Start a business? Or is it about their character? Business savvy? Or perhaps it’s to make a difference? So that your child can better Glorify God with his or her life? To develop a love of learning? Whatever your goal for your child’s education, it’s always good to start with the end in mind. That way, you can more informed decisions about where you’d like your child’s education to take him.
I’m looking forward to attending next week’s meeting about Homeschooling Curriculum choices, learning styles and educational philosophies. (Yes, I’m a geek!) These informative meetings are taking place at Scottsdale Bible Church from 9am-11am each Tuesday this month. Maybe we’ll see you there!
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Joy is the Co-founder of Scottsdale Moms Blog and absolutely loves living in Scottsdale with her hubby Kevin and their daughter Reagan (born August 2009) and one on the way. She is a lover of nature, a research analyst on all things related to life, a home manager, a crafty art-eest, Chief Marketing Officer for Cactus CrossFit, mommy, daughter and friend. .
Hi!
I so want to attend these classes but had done the organizational class and am enjoying it so I hope they do it again!
Is there another way to learn about Homeschooling? I have been interested but do not even know where to start… Thanks!
I also attend Scottsdale Bible Church. I don’t know if they still have a co-op there anymore but I am the director of a Christian co-op (many of the moms attend SBC). Let me know if you or any of your readers are still interested in finding a Christian homeschool group or have any questions. We really love homeschooling and it has blessed our family so much.
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