Reasons to Attend a Homeschool Convention
- rstinson10
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
Homeschool conventions are educational
and fun!
Homeschool conventions are great. They offer a place to connect with the homeschool community in-person. You can shop for curriculum, network with other homeschoolers and learn new ways to improve your homeschool. We encourage all homeschoolers to attend. However, attending a convention can be especially beneficial if you are new to homeschooling or you are actively planning to homeschool in the future.
Here's some more information about what you can expect when you attend a homeschool convention.
Vender Expo
Many programs and curriculum companies do not have storefront and most transactions are done online or at a convention. This makes conventions a great opportunity to shop. Many curriculum venders have their materials out on display, so that you can view and compare them in real life.
Some vendors do not sell curriculum, but are active in the homeschool community in other ways. For example, they might be marketing a summer camp or a vacation destination that offers special off-season pricing for homeschool families or a co-ops, presenting information about their program.
Even so, consider your budget. Curriculum shopping can be overwhelming. Are the materials presented at the convention something you want to buy right now at the show? Do you want to take advantage of show specials? Or would you rather wait and shop for the items online or second hand later? Here is our article about things to know about curriculum before you shop.
Convention Seminars
This is a great way to learn more about homeschooling. There are many great speakers covering a range of topics and ways to improve your homeschool. Consider reading the schedule before your trip to plan your day. If there is a seminar that you like, but you cannot attend, maybe you can buy the recording if it's available. Take good notes and remember to put your phone on silent.
"Introduction to Homeschooling" Seminars
Homeschool conventions often have a session specifically for new homeschooling parents that will cover introductory homeschool information. They cover homeschool law, what a normal day might look like and other tips to be successful. Even if you are 1% sure you are going to homeschool or you are still in the research phase of this decision, we highly recommend that you attend an introduction to homeschooling seminar. We also recommend going regardless of your child's age: whether your child is 7 months old or 5 years old, any parent considering or planning to homeschool can benefit from attending these types of sessions.
Children's Programming
Often, there are activities and programming for children.
Shopping for the right curriculum, interacting with venders and attending seminars can make conventions an intense situation. Nursing babies aside, we highly recommend arranging childcare if your child will not be participating in a children's program at the convention.
Networking
Homeschool conventions are an opportunity to meet and mingle with other homeschoolers. Make some new friends!
Other tips
Research parking locations and pricing before hand as well. You might want to bring your own tote bag from home to collect your goodies. Follow the convention on social media to be notified about news and changes to the event.
Find a convention near you!
Conventions are happening year 'round, in almost every state across in the United States. Check out this link to find a convention near you. Link
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