Why Attend a Homeschool Convention?

In March, I had the opportunity to attend the 2014 SOUTHEAST Homeschool Convention in Greenville, South Carolina, which was sponsored by Great Homeschool Conventions. I had a wonderful time attending workshops, talking to people, and exploring the exhibit hall. If you have never attended a homeschool convention, or haven’t been to one in several years, here is a list of five reasons you should go.

1) Make new friends.

It’s interesting to watch people connect at homeschool conferences. I attended a workshop about homeschooling preschoolers and had an instant connection with the women sitting near me because our kids were similar in age. When homeschooling gets tough, connections such as these can be a huge encouragement.

2) Get inspired.

Homeschool conferences have a lot of energy, and a great deal of that energy comes from the sharing of new ideas. I got really excited about little things (like learning how to make homemade silly putty) and big things (like a workshop speaker’s ideas for fostering creative writing skills in young children). I could barely wait to go home and get to work.

3) Be encouraged.

Homeschooling can be a lonely venture, and sometimes it doesn’t seem worth the effort. It’s encouraging to talk to or listen to people who have had similar struggles and found ways to overcome. It is also encouraging to be reminded of the blessings and benefits of homeschooling.

4) Explore options.

It’s a lot easier to make decisions about homeschooling curriculum when you can look at all your options at one time. Many publishers, such as BJU Press, have a display where you can interact with the materials and ask their representatives questions.

5) Enjoy a break.

Enjoy the break from the daily homeschooling routine. Even better—leave your kids with a relative or trusted friend, and enjoy a couple days away with your husband. You’ll be glad you did!

Have you attended a homeschool convention this year? What was your favorite part?