Homeschool co-ops, as the name implies, are cooperatives built around a common thread of homeschooling. Co-ops can be as varied as the people in them. Commonly several moms or dads will want to get their homeschooled children involved in a group learning environment that fulfills a need they might be missing in their own homeschool. Sometimes these co-ops might meet for just one class and other times they may choose to provide several classes. Frequently one mom or dad may have talent or expertise in an area and be willing to share that with the group. However, in our personal experience, expertise is not necessarily a requirement but the willingness of each family to contribute in some way is.
Who can benefit?
Co-operative learning can really be a great addition to your homeschool. I find that I enjoy the interaction with the other group members because we are all centered on a common goal. Because we have been involved with a co-op for the last six years, I have witnessed first hand the benefits for the children involved. The ability to get up in front of a group and read something they have written, make a presentation or give a speech is something I could not have recreated in the same way at home.
Additionally, all of us have gained by having a larger pool of knowledge from which to draw. Everyone brings their own skills and talents to the group and we all grow. We have had many different people contribute their talents from retired music teachers to gifted artists. These were enriching experiences for all of us.
We live in a small rural area and although there are quite a number of homeschool families, they tend to live independent lives. Our co-op gives us a chance to meet regularly and build relationships. Even in more populated areas, it is easy to become lonely and a homeschool co-op can help with that feeling of isolation.
Where to meet?
Our first co-op was started by a good friend of mine who was kind enough to host three families in her home every week. Our children that were involved in the co-op were all quite young at the time and we just focused on one class. That co-op grew and we have since met in a public library meeting room, a city park, and three different churches. Home environments are great, but usually out of a need for more space it is necessary to find a larger space. Churches are usually very generous and may only charge a small utility fee for using the space. Community buildings and meeting rooms may also be an option.