Finding A Homeschool Community To Publications / Articles - Finding A Homeschool Community

Posted 3/10/25
Lisa Rupertus

When you first start homeschooling it can feel isolated and even a bit lonely. Finding your place within the homeschool community can help alleviate that.  How do you find other like minded families? You might be surprised at how easy it is to find other homeschoolers in your community.  Let's look at some ways to find your people.

1. Local Parks 

Visit local parks during the daytime. Homeschoolers come out when the weather is at least tolerable and always when it is nice. We love nothing more than getting outside in the fresh air. This is especially true for families with younger kids. Take time to chat up the other parents while your kids run around. You just might find a local group of kids that meet up regularly.

2. Ask Online In Your Local Township Facebook Groups

I know not everyone uses Facebook these days but Groups are one of the best things to use  social media for. It is very likely that you have several homeschooling families in your local neighborhood. For the most part we are a friendly bunch and love helping new families find their groove.

3. Join a Local Homeschool Group Online

I know I already mentioned Facebook. However, a quick search of your county or even state will likely turn up local groups. It can even be more specific like NJ Unschoolers or Camden County Charlotte Mason Homeschoolers - while I made those up there are plenty of niched groups within the homeschool community and you might find others that follow a similar schooling method as you. I think this is one of the best resources.

4. Local Library

Many libraries offer homeschooling classes and events. Most of these offerings are free or low cost. From gaming clubs to crafts the library is a great resource for local events. 

5. Homeschool Events

There are many homeschooling events. Businesses are noticing that our numbers are growing. We have Homeschool Prom, weekly and weekly roller skating in my local area. I've seen homeschool days offered at places like Chuck E Cheese and the Camden Aquarium. If you don't see an event at a place you want to visit feel free to give them a call and see if they might consider offering homeschool discount days.

6. Co-ops

Co-ops are a great way to meet new families. If you haven't joined a co-op it can be a little tricky at first. Most registrations start a few weeks or even a month or two prior to the classes starting. They usually offer classes for kindergarten through high school but it can vary. Often times there will be a place for babies or toddlers as well. All parents are required to stay during the classes and take on a role to help. These can be all sorts of jobs from teaching a class to hall monitor to supply manager. Each co-op has their own registration requirements. The biggest perk for  joining a co-op is you regularly meet up with the same people for the semester. 

7. Homeschool Associations

Many locations have their local Homeschool Associations. Ours - South Jersey Homeschool Association - is just one example in our local area. Why join an association? There are many events already planned out. You just have to sign up and show up. We have a regular community so you will likely see many of the same faces at most events. 

This this is not an exhaustive list it is a great place to start. Finding your homeschool community enriches your overall experience for both parents and kids. Which way will you try?