One of the beautiful freedoms of homeschooling is that you and your children get to choose your own community — your own “tribe.” Unlike traditional schools where kids are grouped by age and assigned classmates, homeschoolers can connect with others who share their interests, values, or learning styles.
And the best part? You don’t have to wait for someone else to make it happen — you can take the lead! A simple meetup at a local park, apple orchard, or ice cream shop can spark friendships that last for years.
Here is a recent blog article that is full of tips and encouragement for building authentic community for yourself and the kids.
If you’re thinking about hosting a seasonal get-together or activity, go for it! Post it in our GSHE forum community so others can join in. Chances are, someone else is looking for exactly the same kind of connection.
Here are some easy, low-stress ways to meet other homeschoolers and build authentic community — not just for the kids, but for you, too:
- Visit a pumpkin patch or corn maze
- Make a caramel flavored treat
- Tell spooky stories around a campfire
- Decorate pumpkins
- Visit a retirement home and give a costume parade
- Collect autumn leaves for a seasonal art project
- Visit historical markers across the state; the NH Division of Historical Resources have a marker quest offers a sticker reward for visiting ten
- Trade favorite apple recipes after an apple-picking trip
- Learn about and visit NH’s beautiful covered bridges, make a map of all those you visit
- Organize a food drive for a local food pantry – makes a great service project
- Help place flags at the NH State Veterans Cemetery for Veterans’ Day
- Organize a group to rake leaves for seniors in your community
- Partner with your local library to host a game, movie, or craft day
GSHE members can find even more support, encouragement, and events through our forum communities. You’ll also find several family-based local groups in our resource directory — not drop-off programs, but authentic communities where parents and kids connect.
So step outside, say hello, and get something started. Fall is a perfect season for building friendships and community — for your kids and for you!
