Should You Join a Homeschool Co-op? (Here’s What I’ve Learned)

So at this point in the year you maybe asking yourself " Should we or shouldn't we join a co-op this fall? " I've been there. Honestly, probably depending on the area you are located in, you've been asking yourself this question for a while. 

We’ve been part of a homeschool co-op--Classical Conversations—and we’re heading into our third year. I know. Wild.

When we first started, I wasn’t totally sure about it. Part of me loved the idea of community and shared teaching (and let’s be real—someone else handling the science experiments). But the other part of me was like… do I really want to get everyone dressed, packed, and out the door by 8:30am on a Tuesday? (Spoiler: still no. I never do.)

But we jumped in, and we stayed. And we've thrived. Since I know some of you are sitting in that “should we or shouldn’t we” space, I just wanted to share a few honest pros and cons—no pressure, no fluff—just what it’s actually been like for us and what I think about co-ops.

*Ok but first off though, this IS an important note moving forward, while we LOVE LOVE LOVE Classical Conversations, this is not an ad for it. I truly believe everyone should find the community that is best for their family. And I will always be the first to say that may not always be CC. So please do be in fear proceeding forward. I'm not trying to peer pressure you into anything!*

Pros of Joining a Co-op

1. Community.
There is nothing like talking to another mom who gets it. Ones who also forgot what week we’re on or who also made her kids cereal for dinner. Just being around other homeschool families helps remind me I’m not totally losing it. Knowing you are going to be around other adults outside of your family is a welcome reprieve in the middle of the week.

2. Group learning is actually kind of fun.
My kids love having “class” with other kids. I didn’t think they’d care that much, but turns out—they do. And there’s something sweet about watching them light up because someone else explained fractions.

3. Outsourcing is a gift.
I don’t want to do messy science. Or lead book discussions. Or honestly, plan crafts. OMG I don't want to plan any crafts. So if a co-op can take some of that off my plate? I’m all for it.

Cons of Joining a Co-op

1. It’s a commitment.
You have to get dressed, be on a schedule, and bring things. There sometimes are theme days. Which is fine! But also a lot, depending on your bandwidth. Some weeks I’m thrilled to go, other weeks I do literally have to talk myself into it. The commitment can be tough when you're in the think of kid stuff at home.

2. Not all co-ops are the same.
Just being real here—some co-ops feel like a warm hug, others feel like you accidentally walked into a high school clique. If your first one doesn’t feel like a fit, that doesn’t mean all co-ops are like that. Ask questions, go to any open house you can, and ultimately trust your gut. You KNOW when something isn't going to be a good fit for you and your family.

3. Less flexibility.
If you’re a spontaneous, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pajamas kind of homeschooler, having a set co-op schedule might feel constraining. For us, it’s been worth it—but I do miss the freedom to ditch everything and go to the zoo on a random Wednesday.

So... is it worth it? For us, right now, absolutely yes. Not because it’s perfect, but because I needed help carrying the load. Knowing that we are in fellowship and community with other like minded families has been a complete Godsend and motivator for our homeschool journey.

But if it’s not for you? That’s okay too. There’s no one “right” way to homeschool. You’re allowed to say no. Or not yet. Or maybe next year.

And if you do join one and your kid licks the whiteboard or refuses to participate or forgets their shoes? Mine has done the same. You got this!

Lori 
To know God and to make Him known

Need more information on how to start homeschooling but are completely unsure of where to start?! Start here! Check out my eBook to get you and your family started off on the best foot possible! 

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