Homeschool Co-ops are one way where many parents are choosing to meet their children’s social and/or academic needs. Co-ops can range in anything from offering one or two classes to a full day with a complete schedule that has classes for everyone. If you’re home school group doesn’t have one, you can start one fairly easily.
A Defined Purpose
Good groups have a defined purpose. You can walk in or pick up a brochure and you’re immediately aware of what the purpose is. Sometimes the purpose is to have a social outlet. Sometimes it’s to trade expertise in a variety of frame works. But regardless, there is a defined purpose.
Something for Everyone
Most moms look for co-ops that will meet the needs of all of their kids. Consider the group you are starting out with and choose co-op subjects based on the needs of the parents involved and the ages of the kids. We have started our co-op by offering gym class for pre-schoolers and younger grade schoolers. This meets the needs of everyone in our group.
Nursery
This is an often overlooked area of a co-op. However, if you want to encourage all the moms to participate, there has to be a separate nursery for their little ones. Nursery should also go beyond just watching babies but the mothers who do nursery should bring a short activity for the kids to do.
Divide Loosely by Age
You can either choose activities (such as art) that don’t require strict age divisions or you can divide the children by age. However, it is important to consider ability here as well. Homeschoolers tend to excel in areas of interest and it may be that you have some younger children who are able to participate in a meaningful way and complete assignments despite their age.
Draw on the Expertise Within Your Group
One mistake many new co-ops make is to have a pre-determined set of courses offered and then hope that someone comes along to teach it. Especially if your group is new, it is important to draw on the strengths of the group members. If you have a gym and music teacher but no art teacher–don’t offer art. As your group grows, you will likely be able to round out your offerings but don’t feel pressured to offer it all at once.
Co-ops provide opportunity for socializing, and building friendships. They are also a great way to build into your home education program new and exciting classes that you might not be able to offer your children.
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