Homeschoolers have created networks of support to provide a way to make friends, get ideas and information, and to offer positive socialization opportunties to their children. You can join in! There are many groups to choose from, many with specific affiliations, like Christian groups or unschoolers' groups. Some are eclectic, inclusive, and open to anyone. Whatever your interest, you are sure to find other like-minded parents. And if you don't find what you are looking for, we've put together tips for starting your own group.
|
| |
| Support Group Management: Starting & Running a Support Group |
| |
Learn how to start and manage a homeschool support group, including how to stay organized, how to handle conflict, and ideas for your support group.
|
|
| National Groups |
| |
Tap into the national homeschool movement by connecting with these national homeschool groups and support organizations.
|
|
| Local & State Groups |
| |
Support groups offer a way for those interested in homeschooling or new to home education to get information and support. They also offer opportunities for social activities, group learning, and networking. Find a support group near you in South Dakota.
|
|
| Co-Ops |
| |
A co-op offers a way to share teaching duties with others who are excited and knowledgeable about a subject. It also offers an opportunity for your children to learn in a group and to make friends. Browse through this list of co-ops in South Dakota.
|
|
| Cover/Umbrella Schools |
| |
An umbrella or cover school provides an alternative way for parents to fulfill governmental educational guidelines and requirements. Most offer a variety of services, which can include curricula, social activities, field trips, standardized testing, portfolio reviews, evaluations, and graduation materials, including diplomas. While umbrella schools do tend to the needs of homeschoolers, they are considered a type of private school in most states.
|
|
| Resource Centers |
| |
Homeschool resource centers offer classes, materials, field trips, and other activities for parents and children alike. They are great ways to get new information, engage in group activities, and network with other homeschoolers.
|
|
| Public School Programs |
| |
Public schools are increasing offering programs to appeal to homeschooling families, from classes to educational materials to computer and distance learning. In most cases, students enrolled in these programs are considered public school students rather than homeschoolers. Learn more about these programs and decide if these are right for your family.
|
|
| Email Groups & Lists |
| |
Connecting via email can be a life-line for anyone who is looking for support, guidance, information, and friendship. Many support groups rely on email lists to facilitate communication and to pass along information and ideas. Browse through these group to find some that might meet your needs.
|
|
| Forums & Message Boards |
| |
Message boards and forums are like the public squares of homeschooling. Come and find ongoing discussion covering every aspect of homeschooling imaginable.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Black Homeschoolers' Network |
|
Black Homeschoolers' Network is intended to facilitate a network among African American homeschoolers across the country. Here you will also find a message board for general communication as well as an email pal listing for homeschooled kids.
|
|
|
|
Educational Philosophies |
|
This group is intended for the discussion of the philosophies, themes, and methods of classical education. Discuss the theories of classical educators such as Erasmus, Plutarch, Quintilian, Milton, Sayers, David Hicks, Ruth Beechick, Charlotte Mason, Laura Berquist, Jessie Wise and Susan Wise-Bauer, the Bluedorns, and others. Discuss books and syllabi on classical education.
|
|
|
|
Alliance for the Separation of School & State |
|
An advisory group concerned with educating people about the need to eliminate government involvement in education and the rights of parents to educate their own children. On this site, you will find a public proclamation for the separation of school and state, which you can sign. |
|
|
|
National Home Education Network (NHEN) |
|
The National Home Education Network exists to encourage and facilitate the vital grassroots work of state and local homeschooling organizations and individuals by providing information, fostering networking and promoting public relations on a national level. NHEN's goal is to offer accurate and complete homeschooling information that cuts across all political agendas, religious affiliations, and homeschooling styles. |
|
|
|
CharlotteMasonKindergarten |
|
A group for Charlotte Mason Mom's using the curriculum outline suggested in Karen Andreola's summer of 93 Parent's Review titled, "A Formidable List of Attainments for a Child of Six", and also trying to complete the Kindergarten Skills list as described in Catherine Levison's book, A Literary Education. |
|
|
|