A homeschool support group is an association of homeschooling families that provides mutual encouragement, practical resources, social opportunities for children, and shared activities like field trips, co-op classes, and parent meetups.
What is a Homeschool Support Group?
Homeschool support groups bring together families who educate their children at home, creating community around shared experiences. These groups range from informal park day gatherings to structured organizations with membership dues, curricula libraries, and organized co-op classes. They serve as the "teacher's lounge" that homeschool parents otherwise lack—a place to share struggles, exchange advice, and provide mutual encouragement. For children, support groups offer regular social interaction with peers who understand their educational lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Groups range from casual meetups to structured organizations with formal programming
- Available in religious, secular, and inclusive/neutral formats to match family values
- Provide socialization for children and emotional support for parents
- Often organize field trips, co-op classes, sports teams, and special events
- Can be found through HSLDA, state organizations, Facebook, or local homeschoolers
Types of Support Groups
Religious groups (Christian, Catholic, Jewish) integrate faith-based values and may require statements of faith for membership. Secular groups specifically avoid religious content, promoting inclusive communities regardless of faith or politics. Inclusive or neutral groups welcome all families without religious or political affiliation requirements. Co-ops meet regularly with parents sharing teaching responsibilities based on their expertise. Virtual groups organize around specific curricula, teaching methods, or philosophies. Some groups are simply informal "tribes" meeting weekly at local parks.
Typical Activities and Benefits
Support groups organize enrichment classes covering subjects parents find challenging—foreign languages, science labs, art instruction. Field trips to museums, historical sites, and nature centers become group learning experiences. Many groups run book clubs, sports teams, debate clubs, and drama productions. Parents attend monthly support meetings with themed discussions, participate in curriculum swap events, and access shared resource libraries. Beyond organized activities, the simple connection with families who understand your daily life provides invaluable emotional support.
Finding a Local Group
Several resources help locate homeschool support groups. HSLDA maintains a searchable directory by ZIP code. TheHomeSchoolMom lists groups state by state. Homeschool.com offers a support group finder. Your state homeschool organization often maintains local group directories. Facebook groups for your city or region typically share information about established groups and events. Word of mouth from local homeschoolers frequently leads to the best-fit communities.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right support group transforms the homeschool experience for both parents and children. The community prevents isolation, provides practical resources, and creates lasting friendships with people who share your educational values. If existing groups don't fit your family's needs, starting your own is simpler than expected—begin by inviting a few families to meet weekly at a local park. The investment in community pays dividends throughout your homeschool journey.
