Most homeschoolers are asked, “What about socialization?” If you’ve been homeschooled for some time, you can smile because you know there are plenty of opportunities to socialize. Homeschooling children interact with people much more than people think. Here are some opportunities to socialize:

1. Extracurricular Activities: These can be paid for by parents or offered free through the community. Your child can take classes like gymnastics, ballet, dance, pottery, jewelry making, drawing, tennis, golf, martial arts, swimming, babysitting classes, and many other community activities.

2. Homeschooling Support Groups or Cooperative Events – Many homeschooling groups offer weekly or monthly classes or events. There are also seasonal events like science fairs, spelling bees, and field trips. Some groups even have talent nights or offer special rates for lessons at companies in the area. There may also be opportunities to attend special musical or theatrical performances as a group.

3. Socialize with siblings and parents: Many people overlook the fact that children who attend school at home usually have to interact with their family members throughout the day. Sometimes those are the most difficult relationships to maintain. Children learn many problem-solving skills when they interact with members of their own family throughout the day.

4. Community Sponsored Activities – Many communities have recreation departments that offer team sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more. Also don’t overlook bowling leagues and swim teams. Some communities also have community choirs, bands, and theater groups where your children can participate.

5. Church activities: Sports teams can be a great outreach opportunity for local churches. Look for these so your kids can participate, too. Choir and band programs are sometimes available for children to perform and learn. Youth groups sometimes need members to perform in a band by playing an instrument or singing. If your church doesn’t have a program like this, then maybe you and your kids could start one.

6. School Activities: Many schools will allow their children to participate in choir, drama, and art classes. For the younger grades, there are several Biddy programs that are open to all children in the community. Students are always welcome to attend sporting events when they pay for admission. These can be great family outings where you interact with the community and get to watch a game.

By keeping your eyes open and interacting with people, you can find many ways for your children to socialize with others.