The best way to convince yourself that there’s an abundance of homeschool support is to attend a homeschool convention! We encourage you also to join a homeschool organization. You’ll be blown away by the friendly people and amazed at the wealth of resources available.

Homeschool Conventions. Attending a homeschool convention is a terrific way to gather information, network with other families, and attend workshops where veteran homeschoolers share their wisdom. You can also visit an exhibit hall to check out curriculum and programs.

There are two major conventions each summer in SoCal. The Great Homeschool Convention is normally held in June in Southern California, and the CHEA Convention is held in May/June, also in Southern California.

Homeschool Organizations. There are a number of organizations to check out. Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA) and the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) provide tremendous resources for newcomers as well as veteran homeschoolers. Another excellent resource is The Homeschool Mom, which in addition to offering reviews of specific curriculums provides links to localized homeschooling organizations that parents can connect with.

Most families want support, and the best way to receive it is to connect with one or more of the many homeschool groups available. California has an abundance of resources, so that you do not have to go it alone. If you enroll in a PSP, you typically have a built-in support group of other families. If you file a private school you also have access to many support groups in the area.  You can also connect with other homeschoolers through church, a speech and debate league, and other extracurricular activities. Homeschoolers are everywhere, and many families are involved in multiple circles.

Homeschool organizations have directories on their websites where you can search for a group in your area.

Other benefits to homeschoolers…

Curriculum are Widely Available. Homeschoolers not only have access to the same curriculum taught at Christian private schools, they also have access to curricula created especially for home educators – excellent content, ease of use, often with the ability to use across multiple grade levels.

Classroom Programs. Families may choose to enroll in outside courses for homeschoolers. These may meet once a week, 2x a week, 3x a week. Some use traditional textbooks, some use hands on approaches, and others use the Socratic method of discussion.

Online Courses. A wide assortment of online courses are available. Who hasn’t heard of the Khan Academy; but this is just one of hundreds of online teaching venues now available, some in real time, some self-paced.

Co-ops. A homeschool co-op, which stands for cooperative, involves a group of families who get together to share in the work of teaching different subjects and planning activities.

Tutoring. Tutoring is also an option, either in person or online.

Dual Enrollment. Dual enrollment is a fantastic option for high schoolers. Most homeschooled kids take classes at community colleges while in high school, thereby earning both high school credit and college credit at the same time.

All to say, if you’re looking for support and reasons to homeschool you’ll find both and in abundance!