Homeschool Gym - Socialize, Exercise!

December 12, 10:24 AMInformal Education ExaminerLisa Jo Rudy

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Tom shoots a basket at the YMCA's homeschool gym program

For those who don't yet know me, I started my writing career as a grant and fundraising writer at a science museum.  When I started freelancing, my first client was a fundraiser who worked exclusively with YMCAs. 

At the time, all I knew about the Y came from the Village People song!

I've now been to about....  oh... 30 YMCAs across the United States.  And I've got to tell you, there is nothing else like the Y anywhere - and for a homeschooling family, it's an amazing resource. 

What's so great about the Y?

First of all, many many YMCA's across the US have figured out that homeschoolers are a terrific market - and they've created Homeschool Gym programs just for us.  Tom, who is mildly autistic, had a terrible time with gym in school.  But as a homeschooler, he's included in with a small group of mixed ages, all of whom are welcoming and supportive.  They spend one hour in the gym, doing everything from basic sports to rock climbing to running laps.  Then, they change and spend an hour swimming - part lesson, part splash.  This is our second year, and missing homeschool gym has become a major tragedy in our home!

Second, the YMCA is for everyone.  That means parents, grandparents, infants, disabled people, and even people who don't have the cash to pay.  Every single Y has programs for people of every age and ability, and EVERY Y provides financial aid to people who need it.  If you're concerned about price, just ask.  Really.

Third, the Y builds character values into its programs.  They really do.  They have a policy of teaching caring, responsibility, honesty and respect into everything they do, and all their staff are trained to make that happen.  If you don't believe they're for real, just watch a Y staffer work with a group of teens.

Fourth, the Y is open weekends and most holidays.  That means the whole family - even the non-homeschooling parent - can join in the fun.  For us, in New England, the Y pool is a godsend on cold yucky February weekends.

Fifth, while your kids are in homeschool gym, YOU can take a yoga class...  go for a swim... or just climb on the treadmill.  And as a homeschooler, when else will you find time for you??