When I first heard about homeschool conventions I was definitely interested but also a bit confused as to why you would actually want to attend one. I didn’t know what to expect and I wasn’t sure what I was going to gain. This year I decided that I would go and check it out to see what all the fuss was about. I started off with a smaller convention, to just get my feet wet, and I fell in love. Even though I could have found all of the information that I heard online in the comfort of my own home snuggled up in my pj’s. I am so glad that I put my pants on and actually went!
What Will You Get Out Of The Convention?
I suppose a little of this depends on how much you actually want to get out of the day. I went with an open mind ready for a rush of information. I got to hear some really amazing people speak, Patrick Farenga who is an amazing unschooling advocate and Robyn Robertson who is the creator of one of my favourite podcasts Honey I’m Homeschooling The Kids! Throughout the day I sat in on a total of six fabulous talks on different homeschooling topics. I head about everything, from what websites and apps are loved all the way to how to talk to people about homeschooling.
Why Not Attend Online Homeschool Conventions?
I can answer this in two parts, I’m sure I will be leaving out some important reasons but this is what really got my butt off the couch! I think that it’s so inspiring to be around like-minded people who are on this journey alongside you. Even if you are doing two totally different things in your homeschool it’s amazing to be around a bunch of other homeschoolers who will understand your struggles and be just as proud of your accomplishments. Listening to those who have walked the path before you is so inspiring and I think that being there in person add to the feeling that people really do this! Secondly, you meet people who are part of your local homeschooling community! There are obviously other places that you can meet local homeschoolers but I think that spending the whole day learning with people really brings you closer together and builds a lasting bond!
Will I Be Going Ever Again?
For the short answer, YES! I plan to make going to a homeschool convention a yearly tradition to get me pumped up and excited for the year to come. I enjoy learning and hearing what others are doing so this really is the perfect place for me. Plus, did I mention that you usually get lunch? Who can refuse a place where you can meet like-minded people and eat great food?
