Homeschooling Chronicles Part Three: Social Media vs Face to Face Connections

 

Social media can add a lot of pressure to our lives because it makes things look perfect even when they aren’t and sets up unrealistic expectations for ourselves and others. I’ve talked about that in my blogs before, but there’s definitely a good side to it, too! IG is a highlight reel. But we all know the reality of lowlights in our lives.  

On the upside, social media has opened up opportunities for me and others to learn about other homeschooling families and their routines, curriculum, challenges and triumphs. I have learned so much over the years from watching and interacting with other homeschooling accounts online, even though I’ve never met them. It’s allowed us to extend our range of connection and communication, and (when used intentionally!) it can enable us to create a community where we can share the ups and downs with one another. 

Younger families starting their homeschooling journey have this kind of connection at their fingertips in a way that I didn’t when I was starting over 17 years ago. Back then, the only way to learn about anything related to homeschooling was to attend a conference, connect with somebody at a vendor booth, purchase a curriculum and take a chance! You had to try things out (sometimes multiple things) to see what “stuck” and what would realistically work for you and your family. Attending conferences, listening to speakers and talking to people at vendor booths were critical to my choices in those early years. Without the personal connections I made during that time, I don’t think I could have made the decisions I made. 

I recall moments when I initially began the homeschooling journey that felt daunting and isolating. There weren’t many examples in the media or culture of how to homeschool successfully. If you wanted those kinds of examples and information, you had to seek them out intentionally. 

Nowadays, social media makes all of that accessible immediately from the comforts of your own home. There are countless examples of families online who are doing it, and it’s become increasingly popular. It’s a great place to start if you’re just beginning to consider it, but I would also encourage you to make an effort to get out there to meet people who are also homeschooling! Connect with the homeschooling group in your area, look into conferences, and consider starting your homeschool co-op with just one family. It’s great for you and your kids. You’ll learn from one another, have that coffee, share meals, and connect with another mom who understands what you’re going through. Bring your families together and watch how you can experience exponential growth! 

One of my favourite parts of homeschooling has always been visiting with other families and getting a sense of their homeschool lives. How did they function? What was their curriculum choice? Why did they choose it? What worked for one child versus what worked for another? Trading stories and tips was a wonderful way to learn and connect. 

I remember that, early on, I met an incredible lady who had been homeschooling for quite a while. Every week, at an art class we attended with our kids, she would often share what she was doing and why she was doing it. She told me that each family has their own reason for homeschooling, and each one is different and unique. You have to do what works for your family. I have reminded myself of those words many times over the years.

My sisters also homeschool, and they have significantly influenced my life. We have shared throughout the years what has worked and what has not worked, and we have become a safe haven for one another. Particularly in our early years, when our kids were very young and busy, we would often get together to sit and talk, be a shelter for one another, and be encouraged. We would share a meal, talk over coffee and sometimes even take turns napping while one of us looked after the kids! Babies and toddlers have a way of altering sleep patterns!

That’s what community is – looking out for one another and celebrating with, mourning with and sustaining one another through all the ups and downs of the journey. Being there to help whenever needed—with lessons, organizing get-togethers, making and bringing food, and whatever was needed at the time. 

If you are beginning your homeschooling journey, I know it’s hard and overwhelming. But you’re not alone. Look online for a local group so you can meet face-to-face with other families and learn from one another. Don’t let social media be the only place. It’s a start, but keep your options open and your coffee on! We need connections! It is how we were wired.

Pray it over, journal about it, and actively pursue others who will walk with you! It’s the best thing you can do for yourself and your kids. God knows what you need; seek him first!

We all need to slow down to seek the Lord and in times like this for me a great worship song is just perfect!

Songs by Jonathon Ogden