Should I Join a Co-op?

If we want to make it short and simple, the answer, yes. Co-ops have valuable and lifelong benefits. In my 26 years of homeschooling, I have found that co-ops have given my children some incredible friends and have also offered them healthy educational competition. There are also school experiences like dances, science fairs, protocols, public speaking, drama, field trips, and debates (to name a few) that have given my children experiences that they might otherwise have missed.

Furthermore, some classes, like science labs, are facilitated better in group environments.

Additionally, co-ops can encourage parents by having access to others’ homeschool experiences. Friendships can be formed that align with your family’s needs and values. Connecting with other parents can make your homeschool journey less isolating and can encourage new homeschoolers as they glean wisdom from seasoned homeschool parents. Oftentimes, you will find someone else who loves teaching in the very area that you don’t. There is so much that parents can learn from each other!

Finally, there may be extenuating circumstances that prevent participation in a co-op. There may be a season that a co-op commitment can’t be made or maybe even cause burnout (thank goodness for summers!) But normally, co-ops make learning more fun and will add to a fulfilling homeschool journey.  

Sign me up!

This is a guest article by Kerry Tittle who is a mother of nine children and a 20-year homeschool veteran.