Many homeschool families choose to use homeschool co-ops as an additional means to educate their children. Co-ops can be as simple as 2 families teaching one or more subjects together. They can also be as elaborate as a full-fledged "academy" that teaches homeschool students all of their subjects.
A Homeschool Cooperative or Co-op is a cooperative of families who homeschool their children. It provides an opportunity for children to learn from other parents who are more specialized in certain areas or subjects. Co-ops also provide social interaction for homeschooled children. They may take lessons together or go on field trips. Some co-ops also offer events such as prom and graduation for homeschoolers. (source: Wikipedia)
Homeschool Co-ops are different from regular homeschool support groups, and usually offer the following:
- enrichment classes; i.e music, art, physical education
- academics; i.e history, science, math
- both enrichment and academics
- can be religious or secular
Co-op classes can be beneficial to both students and parents, whereas a student can learn upper-level math and science lab requirements can be fulfilled outside of home instruction. A parent may not feel qualified to teach certain classes, even physical education, for instance, and therefore has the option of allowing another parent to instruct their student in one or more of these subject areas. Some co-ops offer the option of taking only one class if so desired, and others offer a full array of classes to choose from. Some only require a few hours participation and then there are those that require a full day's attendance, with homework to be completed prior to the next session possible in both cases.
Homeschool Co-ops can be a more affordable alternative to private school. The student still spends most of his time at home, yet can receive some of all of his academic instruction at another location.
Some co-ops require parent involvement, and some do not. There are usually cost for materials, to help contribute to space rental, etc.
A list of some local co-ops in New Jersey, please visit each individual site to learn more:
- Enrichment Co-op of South Jersey
- Christian Home Educators Co-op
- Liberty Education and Resource Network
- The Homeschool Academy of South Jersey
Comments
Excellent information on this and what a great idea to work together with others.
Greetings from A Wild Ride. When my son was diagnosed with GAD and depression, the psychiatrist recommended homeschooling. To me homeschooling meant that we had to be together 24/7 and that I had to be brilliant and wise during that same time. I wish I had met you then (10 years ago). Your homeschooling definition is wise, wonderful and sane! A win-win for all involved.
Thanks for sharing your experience and insights. I will post on www.awildride.net/blog to benefit other moms who might be thinking as I once did.
nice article...Very succinct on a subject about which most folks no little or nothing...will share it.
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