4 Ideas to Experience the Real World with Your Homeschooler

The public school system puts education into a box. With homeschooling, students can step out of the box and thrive in the real world. Homeschoolers are labeled as antisocial or isolated. Actually, homeschoolers can experience the real world, while public school students find themselves stuck inside all day. 

As a homeschooler myself, my mom and I spent time out there–in the real world. We visited the library, attended co-op days and homeschool activities, went to the local farmer’s market, volunteered in our community, and more. Because of this lifestyle, I was able to learn about the world alongside my mom. I’m very fortunate that this helped us grow even closer. 

How do we teach our children to live in the real world? Well, I’ll list a few ideas inspired by my own experience. 

• Get out there!
• Experience diverse activities. 
• Have open conversations. 
• Teach street smarts. 

Get Out There!

First of all, get out there in the real world. Find events and opportunities to connect with others. If you’re more introverted, feel free to pace yourself and go at your own speed. That’s okay! Connect with your local library. Libraries often host homeschooling events or will know of other homeschoolers. 

Next, experience diverse activities. Change it up and have fun. One week, try an art class. The next week, attend a self-defense course. Try different activities, as this will be fun for both you and your homeschooler. 

After attending an activity or social event, talk about it with your homeschooler. Did you feel welcomed? What did you like? What did you learn? How did it make you feel? Ask open questions and discuss the event. 

Finally, teach your child street smarts. It’s important to prepare them for the world. Talk about safety strategies and critical thinking. Put street smarts into practice and show your homeschooler how you practice them. Also, you can discuss psychology and how to read other people. These skills will benefit your homeschooler for the rest of their lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, take time to get out there in the real world and live it up with your homeschooler. As mentioned, feel free to take it slow if you’re introverted. Your homeschooler will learn through each experience. I know I did. They’ll learn lessons from others and experience life through social interactions. You’ve got this, homeschool parent! 

You can totally do this, and remember: Have fun!

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- NxtEra

Written by Bethany (@thebookwormgirl_bethany)