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Homeschool Co-op: What, Why, How?

January 12, 2014 By Racheous

everything you need to know about starting a homeschool co-op
I have created and organised my own local homeschooling co-op after not having any luck finding the kind of ‘community’ I want and need as we start our homeschooling journey. We’ve been blessed to have the interest, help and support of 18 families now. Our co-operative is all about having a flexible, ongoing group which enriches our homeschooling experience by learning from and with one another.

What is a homeschool co-op?

A homeschool co-op is a group of families that home educate working together for a common goal. Parents are able share in the education of their children.

Homeschool co-ops typically involve parent participation. Parents teach classes, share ‘expertise’, facilitate activities, organise venues and ideas, help care for children, clean up and a variety of other tasks. Sometimes the co-ops go on field trips together, organise sporting events and/or share materials.

What are the benefits of forming or joining a co-op?

The benefits of a homeschool co-op

  • Group learning – Children learn to work as a team, share, and collaborate.
  • Sharing ideas – Both the parents and children can share their ideas and expertise.
  • Sharing resources – Similarly, parents and children can share materials, books, toys, etc.
  • Shared expenses – You can often get group discounts to museums, activities, exhibitions, etc. Also, some co-ops organise group purchases of materials for discounted prices.
  • Support – Both for the parents and the children. Sometimes home educating can be lonely, having the support of a co-op, forming friendships and helping each other through the positive and negative aspects of homeschooling is so beneficial.
  • Socialisation – Homeschooling co-operatives are yet another way that children can spend time with (and learn with and from) adults and children of all ages.
  • Experiences and lessons that are easier to teach and learn as a group.
  • It’s fun! The classes, play-dates, field trips, etc are exciting, enjoyable and perfect memory-making opportunities.

Top 10 tips for starting your own homeschool co-op:

best advice tips for starting homeschool co-op

  1. Use social media – to find like-minded parents, to join local groups and to find interest.
  2. Create a Facebook group – Facebook groups are a free, user-friendly way to organise homeschool co-ops. You can chat, organise events, share photos, write and share documents, and you can make it all secret if needed.
  3. Utilise Google docs – Google documents are yet another free resource which are brilliant for planning classes, field trips, events and ideas. The calendar templates available are perfect for recording and preparation.
  4. Share resources – find out what resources families have and are willing to share.
  5. Share expertise – parents often have unexpected talents that are great for group activities (i.e. sports knowledge, craft skills, etc)
  6. Be clear about desired outcomes.
  7. Ensure that people know that the co-op is are shared responsibility and effort.
  8. Create a masterlist of ideas. See my Ultimate List of Homeschool Co-op Ideas here!
  9. Consider hiring a community centre room or hall (if you have a need for space).
  10. Use the local free resources, activities and areas (libraries, art galleries, museums, parks, nature centres, botanical gardens, bush walks, etc)

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Comments

  1. Irene - Montessori Life As We Know It says

    January 12, 2014 at 5:52 pm

    That is absolutely AWESOME. I am so interested in homeschooling and don’t know anyone else that is doing it. I am not going to do it myself but I am interested to know more about people that are doing it like yourself. Would love to hear more about how the coop is going throughout the year and see some of the classes in action! Thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
  2. Andrea @ No Doubt Learning says

    January 13, 2014 at 4:32 am

    What a great resource! We’ve really enjoyed being a part of our co-ops!

    Reply
  3. Jackie says

    January 14, 2014 at 9:51 am

    I imagine it’s taken quite a bit to organise. But, I have no doubt this co-op will be wonderful for you. Good luck with the homeschooling journey.

    Reply
  4. Aubrey says

    January 14, 2014 at 11:38 am

    I’m so excited for you! I’ve enjoyed my homeschool co-ops from year to year immensely. They really boost your confidence and inspire you! (Plus, there’s a bit of a schedule built into your week!) Can’t wait to hear more!

    Reply
  5. Elise @ Creative Play Central says

    January 14, 2014 at 9:44 pm

    Rachel, this is so exciting! I admire that you have set up this co-op. I am really looking forward to hearing a whole lot more about this.

    Reply
  6. Bek @ Just For Daisy says

    January 14, 2014 at 9:51 pm

    Pinned! This is fabulous Rachel! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  7. Kate says

    January 17, 2014 at 9:17 pm

    What fabulous suggestions. I can imagine just a co-op would be incredibly beneficial for all those involved.

    Reply
  8. Christie - Childhood 101 says

    January 17, 2014 at 11:48 pm

    Good on you for making this happen for your family :)

    Reply
  9. Shannen says

    January 18, 2014 at 12:37 pm

    #7 in your tips for starting is co-op is so key! There’s a difference between starting a business and starting a co-op, and it’s beneficial to make it clear from the beginning when you’re starting a co-op. Great post! I’m glad I found you through the Frugal Homeschool link-up!

    Reply
  10. Penny says

    January 18, 2014 at 4:13 pm

    Wonderful tips. The more I learn about home schooling the more I’m interested in it. Sounds like a wonderful, soulful existence compared to sitting in the classroom.

    Reply
  11. Kate - The Craft Train says

    January 19, 2014 at 10:35 pm

    You are so well organised Rachel, it looks like you’ve done an amazing job putting this group together!

    Reply
  12. Angela @ Joy Focused Learning says

    January 29, 2014 at 1:20 pm

    Thank you for this helpful post! I am meeting with the pastor of our church tomorrow to see if we will be able to use their building next year. I would love if you shared this at Anything Goes this week. :)

    Reply
  13. Brett DuPree says

    February 8, 2016 at 5:21 am

    Just found your blog & it has been very helpful! Thanks for putting this info out there (two years ago;)!

    Reply
  14. Beverlyn Davis says

    September 16, 2016 at 6:29 am

    Everything was so clear and to the point. Every question I had was answered. I love the set up of your posts, eye catching! Thanks!

    Reply

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