The importance of social interaction for home schooled children.



I've previously posted about homeschooling. I personally think that it could be a fantastic way to be more involved in your child's life. And more importantly, see to it that their progress isn't being stifled at school. One of my biggest worries as a parent is that my child will get left behind by the current education system. My fears are only aggravated by the ongoing budget cuts.

As a mother, it's only natural to want what's best for your children. To know that they're being afforded the best opportunity to get a head start in life. Children, remember, develop at different rates. There is no right or wrong answer. Some just take a little more time to get their heads around things than others.

You'll be all too aware of this if you've experienced raising a child of your own. I bet you constantly reference development guides and worry how your little one is doing according to their guidelines. And, really, that's all they are. Guidelines. The learning process is different for every child because every child is different.

There isn't anything wrong with that. But, naturally, you'll worry about your children performing compared to their peers. Maybe you've decided that homeschooling is your best option. Not only to keep an eye on your child's learning habits but to see that they get the support they need. Academic learning is important, but your child also needs to learn social skills. And if they're not in school, they're not getting as much social interaction with other children. Here's how to solve that:

  • You're not alone when it comes to homeschooling. In fact, it is estimated that around 150,000 children in the UK are homeschooled. That's not an insignificant number. Try to find other like-minded families in your area. You can bet that they share the same fears as you - that their kids aren't getting enough socialisation.

  • Team up together and arrange field trips. You may think this is a waste of time, but believe me, it's not. After all, regular schools often take their classes on retreats, why should yours be any different? Try to make them educational if you can, but, above all, they need to be fun. Think about things like day trips and museum excursions. Places where they can learn and have fun at the same time. You may find that you can get package discounts by booking places in greater numbers.

  • Enroll your child in "after school" clubs. Whatever their hobbies are, try to embrace them. Finding children with similar interests give them something to bond over. Whether it's joining a sports team, or a music class. It gives them the opportunity to spend time with other children; learning and growing along with them. Your child doesn't need to sit in a classroom in silence all day. To get out and learn new things is equally as effective.


However you choose to get your child the social development he or she needs, it's important to choose something. It can be anything, so long as it provides them with a means to learning.


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