What I’ve learned about “Socialisation” over 20 years, and why it is important for home school.
Why Socialisation Matters?
One of the biggest worries for parents is how well does our child socialise with other children and Do they have friends.
Add to that the concerns of withdrawing them from conventional schooling: how will this affect them socially ? will they be able to make and sustain healthy friendships ?
No matter the age of our kids they need to be be armed with the social skills to make positive connections and be able to communicate effectively.
We need to teach them 5 simple steps :
- Introduce yourself
- Ask the other person simple questions
- Listen actively
- Be polite
- Be aware of other persons feelings
Playtime & Playmates is the 8th Chapter of my e-book:
How to Homeschool – The Good the Bad and the Ugly Realities of Doing it Successfully
With social technology a conversation is only a text or phone call away. Sharing of daily activities and experiences, problems and issues that are encountered are at their fingertips.
If your child has an established friendship base this can easily be maintained, via social media or weekend and after school activities. This can further be enhanced with extra curricular activities and sports that they may participate in or be involved in.
To established friendships we can encourage other ways to meet potential new friends like :
- Write letters or emails to family and friends that have children with like minded interests
- Encourage Teens to get a part time job
- When visiting a populated area find out if there is a playgroup or sporting club that will allow intermittent participation if you are unable to commit weekly.
- Join a sporting club that they have an interest in…swimming, baseball tennis, football.
- Volunteer older kids at a local community organisation…animal rescue, community garden
- Visit a library, it is a great little social centre to find new friends and grab some extra reading material.
Are Homeschooled Kids Socially Awkward ?
Use every opportunity to talk to new people and introduce your children and strike up new conversations and form friendships. At cafes, hairdresser, newsagents, airports, caravan parks, local parks and attractions… the list is endless.
In other words be friendly, take the lead and show your children how to converse and interact kindly with others.
Playtime & Playmates is Chapter 8 in my book: How to Homeschool – The Good the Bad and the Ugly Realities of Doing it Successfully. I go into great detail about what to expect when home-schooling and how to cope with the organised chaos that will ensue.
For a limited time – I’m offering massive discounts for any first-time purchase. Use code ( first20off ) at checkout.
