The foundational idea of a homeschool co-op is to “cooperate” with one or more families to share any part of the home education process. Co-ops can be as simple as two families meeting regularly to cover one subject or as complex as a large, organized, fee-based program covering a myriad of subjects. Whatever the form, homeschool co-ops can add enrichment to your homeschooling journey by expanding your horizons academically, creatively, and socially.
When I was homeschooled in the late 1980s, there was only one organized homeschooling co-op in our area—and it was still an hour away. Why did my mother make that two-hour round trip, with eight children in tow, to attend our homeschool co-op back then? For the community, of course!
Today, homeschool co-ops are prevalent, diverse, and popular. However, you may not live in a large metropolitan area with dozens of homeschool co-op options available. Hopefully, you have found (or can find) at least one homeschooling family close enough to partner up with and start your own.
Or maybe the co-ops in your area aren’t a good fit for your family for one reason or another. You can start a simple co-op to address that need. Remember, a homeschool co-op does not have to be a complicated proposition!
When it comes to the details, here are three simple steps to take when you are planning to start a homeschool co-op of your own…
