Seven important things to consider when selecting a homeschool support group

With over 100 homeschool support groups in the Phoenix area, there is likely a group to fit nearly every need.   It is not uncommon to see several new groups start up each year in Maricopa County. The big question is how to go about finding a group that will be a good fit for you and your family.

Each collection of homeschoolers will have a unique flavor–a philosphical approach to home education or group goals or targeted ages or leadership style may each contribute to the identity of the organization.  While many people would be comfortable with a range of personalities and goals, some will be looking for specific features that they deem the enhancements to homeschooling that their family needs.

If you are new to homeschooling, you may want to consider your own expectations of a support group before starting the exploration process.  It is hard enough to be the “new kid on the block” when joining in with others, but harder still to discover that the group wasn’t right for you and needing to start again if you leave.  Once you have an idea of your “profile”, use these questions to gather information about prospective homeschool associations.

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