Cooperation is Key

So today let’s talk about “Outside the House” and what that means. I am going to just admit right off the bat that this is a hard subject for me to write. I am not an outside of the house kind of gal. I am a homebody. I like my home and am very content to be here most days. Days that we are out and about all day make me weary and cranky. No one likes a weary and cranky mom, so we stay home a lot.

That being said, yes, my kid do have friends and we do get out. Occasionally.

Here are some quick thoughts for you:

I have a love/hate relationship with them. There are so many out there that are just time wasters as far as I am concerned. But, there are also some good ones. There is one here in Omaha that impresses the socks off of me and my kids have taken some great classes there. My advice is to look for value added. What are your kids gaining from the experience? Is it worth the time and trouble? Are they meeting other kids worth hanging out with?

Another one I have a love/hate relationship with. (I warned you I like my home!) When my kids were little we did the typical field trips to the bank, fire station, and bakery. Sure, the kids had fun, but as they got older it took precious time away from our lessons at home and so we faded those things out. I know, mean mom. If you like them, go for it. Just don’t fall into the trap that a field trip makes a kid!

In addition to co ops there are lots of opportunities for your kids to learn from others. Go for it. If there is a mom in your area that has a skill they want to share, yay! I love moms like that! We recently had a mom do dissections for a group and she is forever my hero. Some people are just better at some things than others and hey, praise the Lord for those people. We are also firm believers in dual crediting classes through colleges. While my kids have only done this on line, many college campuses offer this option as well. It allowed both of my girls the opportunity to enter college with a year already under their belts. Saved us valuable time and money.

OK, this one is cheating a bit, I admit, but I do want to gently remind you that you need a little girlfriend time. Notice I said need, not deserve. I don’t believe in all that “I deserve” stuff. But I do know we NEED friends and support. So find a mentor or just a sweet friend or group of friends to occasionally do something with. Whether it is for a simple cup of tea, or a deep discussion, or simply just a hug, you will hopefully come away refreshed and ready to conquer another homeschooling day!