Socialization

Welcome to our first Wednesday. Wednesdays are set aside for articles and general topics that will help you along in your homeschooling journey. This week, our topic is socialization!

For new homeschoolers this is an important question, and a favorite of veteran homeschoolers. Before answering the question, however, ask yourself this question: How do we define socialization for our children? Do you believe your children function just fine with their peers? Do you believe children should be able to function in a broader form? Who do you want your child socialized with? Many children are socialized on a daily basis with people their own age - their peers. Are they reaching their full potential by only socializing with people in their own age group?


The misconception that homeschoolers are social misfits still exists today, unfortunately. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Homeschoolers usually look at socialization as a vertical platform. That is, they are able to socialize with everyone from infants to adults.


Definition: Socialization: to interact with others, to prepare for life in society, to be on friendly terms with someone (refdesk.com)


Many children are mainly socialized with their peers (the horizontal method) often become dependent on their peers for their values, dress code, language, behavior, and sense of self worth.


On the other hand, children who are socialized vertically have opportunities and skills they need to function in real life situations. They learn to be comfortable around their family, their peers, adults and younger children alike.


From National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)

• The home-educated are doing well, typically above average, on measures of social, emotional, and psychological development. Research measures include peer interaction, self-concept, leadership skills, family cohesion, participation in community service, and self-esteem.

• Homeschool students are regularly engaged in social and educational activities outside their homes and with people other than their nuclear-family members. They are commonly involved in activities such as field trips, scouting, 4-H, political drives, church ministry, sports teams, and community volunteer work.

Ideas for ways to socialize your homeschooled children:

• Scout groups


• Church youth group


• Music lessons


• Local theater


• 4H


• Junior Achievement


• TeenPact


• Generation Joshua


• Homeschool groups


• book clubs


• writing clubs


• volunteer work

The opportunities are limitless!

For you new homeschoolers, remember: socialization is NOT as issue for your students. They just have more options - options that you, as the parent and directional advisor of your children, have control of.