Socialization vs. Connection: What Matters Most In Your Homeschool
Answering the socialization question is ongoing for homeschooling families. It’s a question that echoes in our minds and arises in the most unexpected places. Should socialization really be the big question for homeschool families?
Socialization is important, but perhaps we’ve been thinking about it the wrong way. After all, we know that socialization goes way beyond what happens in any classroom. Maybe it’s more about connection than socialization after all.
Connection goes beyond superficial interactions and focuses on building relationships and support systems that will nurture our children as they grow and learn. Fortunately, as homeschoolers, we have a unique opportunity to prioritize connection and foster a bond that goes well beyond academics.
So what matters most in your homeschool? How is your approach fostering a connection? Keep reading to discover how we’re navigating the journey here and how our homeschool experiences are helping to build a deeper connection with strong relationships.
The Socialization Question In Your Homeschool
The socialization question has been around forever. As homeschool moms, we can get tired of answering this question. The question also tends to remain in the back of our minds and sometimes causes us to second-guess our choices.
We know that socialization is important. We also know that there are lots of answers to the question. Our kids get socialization points every day, in our communities, through field trips, and by participating in activities with peers. However, socialization is still the biggest worry for many homeschooling families.
We get asked about socialization at family gatherings, on the phone with grandparents, and even by strangers in the grocery store. But is it really what matters most in your homeschool?
Socialization vs. Connection in Your Homeschool
Webster defines socialization as a process beginning during childhood by which individuals acquire the values, habits, and attitudes of a society. With that definition, it’s easy to see that socialization isn’t relegated to public school classrooms. Instead, it’s a process that happens everywhere!
Socialization is easy to come by, but what about connection? That’s something different. I’d argue that establishing a connection matters much more. After all, healthy relationships and support systems are vital for our mental well-being and the mental health of our children too.
Establishing strong connections begins in early childhood and it’s a critical part of ensuring that our children grow to become healthy and happy. It’s much more than feeling popular or lonely. Our children crave a deep connection with us and they need it to develop strong attachments with others too.
Creating Opportunities for True Connection For Your Child
Fortunately, homeschooling families have many opportunities to focus on building a deep connection with one another. Our interest-led learning approach is one way we work to build a deeper connection. This approach lets Emily know that we value her interests and passions as much as our own.
Interest-led learning is just one way we can show that we consider her feelings and thoughts. Other activities like morning basket time, journaling together, and read alouds provide even more opportunities to make our connection stronger too.
Sometimes it’s about what we don’t do. We try to avoid curricula and methods that won’t nurture a strong connection. For example, gameschooling math facts with Yahtzee instead of completing endless math drill worksheets.
Going on field trips together to museums, National Parks, and other cool places is another way we get the whole family in on the learning adventure. This creates shared memories and lots of opportunities for connection.
Opening and exploring subscription boxes together is another fun way we can connect and learn in our homeschool. Taste testing all the snacks in our Universal Yums box is a fun way to explore other cultures, learn geography, and connect as we vote on our favorite and least favorite flavors.
How are you answering the socialization question these days? How are you working to build a deeper connection in your homeschool?
Share your favorite ways to focus on connection in the comments. I can’t wait to read all your great ideas!