collaborating with organizations and businesses

[Laura Weldon]

We are comfortable going to libraries, parks and museums. But how do we stretch the boundaries when our children want something more? One mother says that she simply asked. If her children were interested in what the movie projectors looked like at the local theater or wanted to see the ovens at the pizzaria she explained to an employee that her children were curious and asked if someone might be able to show them. She says many times they were ushered right in and given a tour.

Other times it is possible to work with local institutions like colleges, museums and park systems to develop classes, mentoring opportunities and workshops for homeschooled youth. We ask them to start something new, collaborate with our group or to change exisiting rules. One enterprising family wanted to volunteer as interpreters at a historical society, which required them to dress in period costumes and demonstrate a variety of traditional skills. The rules did not permit anyone under 18 but the parents explained that their children would be with them at all times and demonstrate games played by children of the era. The historical society finally agreed and the ongoing experience has been one the family continues to enjoy.

What are some ways you would like companies and organizations in the community to help your children learn? If you have sought collaboration, what was the result? What have been your experiences with non-profits and businesses as a homeschooler?

[Karen Streator Smith]

I believe that the philosophy of homeschooling has allowed me to 'think outside the box'. Although I am less a homeschooler in tradition of the word, i.e. my children now attend school in one form or another, the desire to pursue my children's interests continues to drive my choices in their education. For example, when I first returned to work my youngest went to the local preschool. One day she dressed her classmates in outfits stapled and taped together from the butcher paper she found there. She pursued her desire, her interest in fashion design. I remained open to this interest and a few years later when a flyer on sewing classes came my way I enrolled her even though she did not meet the age requirements. She has since moved on in her career choice but through this experience she was able to satisfy her need to learn more about this subject.

[Urmila Anna Samson]

I haven't properly focused on this. I've rolled ideas around in my head. I'm glad that thanks to you this has come into sharp focus now. Will let you know what happens.