Let’s talk about something that’s been floating around a lot lately in the homeschool world: co-ops, pods, homeschool collectives, enrichment groups, learning communities, you name it. They’re everywhere, and if you’re a new homeschooler, you’ve probably felt the pressure to sign up for at least three of them yesterday.
In This Article
There’s A Big Push
As a homeschooling mom to five, I get it. There’s a big push out there. Instagram makes it look like every homeschooler is living their best life in a beautifully curated co-op classroom with watercolor nature journals and communal bread baking. People throw around terms like “village” and “community” as if they’re required homeschool supplies, right next to pencils and paper.
But let’s pause here, because I need to say something important: these things are nice, but they’re not the standard. They never were.
Before homeschool pods were trending, before co-ops were a hashtag, there were just parents. Regular, loving, determined parents who wanted to teach their kids at home. And guess what? They did it just fine. No schedule full of themed park days. No potluck planning committee. Just a family, some books, and a whole lot of commitment.
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Keep readingFalling Into The Trap
Now, I’ll be honest. I almost fell into the “you need a co-op to homeschool” trap. It started with that little whisper in my head about two years into our over twelve year journey: “You can’t do this alone. You’re not a trained teacher. That must be “real homeschool.” You’re going to mess this up.” Then came the mom forums and blogs full of glowing testimonies about “the perfect homeschool groups”.
So I signed us up. And what did I get? Tons of stress, overcommitment, and a calendar that looked like it was designed by a cruise ship entertainment director. Not to mention homeschool burnout, I felt like I couldn’t really do just what we wanted to do, there were codes and can’t do’s, with chosen curriculum that didn’t fit any of my students.
Homeschool Groups can Be Amazing
Let’s be clear: there is nothing wrong with joining a homeschool group. There are some amazing ones out there, and if you find one that fits your family, go for it! But here’s the deal, you don’t have to build your homeschool around it.
A lot of the push for these groups comes from two places: fear and misunderstanding.
Fear And Misunderstanding
Some parents are new to homeschooling and just don’t feel confident. They were raised with the “it takes a village” mindset, so they assume that without one, they’ll fail. Others are terrified their kids won’t get “socialized” and will end up awkward or friendless.
But let me tell you a secret: little kids don’t need to be “socialized” in the way people think they do. They’re learning all the time just by being with you. Taking them out to run errands, visit grandma, or play at the park teaches them more about life and manners than ten preschool circle times ever could. And honestly? A lot of that group time is more for you than it is for them, and that’s okay! We parents need friends too.
As for older kids? If they have siblings, they already have built-in social practice. If they don’t, or if they want more, of course it’s great to get together with friends or other families. Just remember: that’s optional. Not mandatory.
Homeschool Isn’t A Social Club
Your homeschool doesn’t need to mimic a public school classroom, and it doesn’t need to be a social club either. Your kids will learn, grow, and thrive as long as you stay consistent, curious, and flexible. You don’t need a village, you need vision. (And maybe a good cup of tea or coffee, I prefer BOTH.)
Here’s the golden rule: as homeschoolers, we can enjoy extras like co-ops and enrichment days, but we don’t have to live by them. Don’t let the fear of inadequacy drive your calendar. Don’t let Pinterest convince you your homeschool isn’t “real” unless you’ve got matching t-shirts and a yearbook committee.
Kids Are Always Learning
Kids are always learning. Whether it’s during a poetry teatime with a group of 10 or while helping you make dinner at home, doing laundry with you, or chasing chickens in the yard, they’re picking things up every single day. You are enough. And your homeschool doesn’t need a village, just a family who’s in it together.
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