Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting your homeschooling adventure, you’re sure to encounter the “socialization” question.
“Oh, you homeschool? That’s nice. I don’t know how you do it. What about socialization? My kids need to socialize!”
What’s especially funny about this question is that it’s often posed while at a social gathering like:
Playing at the park
Activity day at the library
Community sports
How can we respond with grace?
Dispel Those Doubts
Start by remembering what’s true.
We all have occasional doubts regarding whether our homeschooled children will “turn out.” If you are in that place of doubt right now, consider the following:
MYTH: Spending eight hours in a room with twenty people of the same age is the perfect recipe for socialization.
REALITY: Children benefit tremendously from interacting with various ages as they learn to treat little ones with gentleness, listen to elders with respect, and relate to peers with understanding.
MYTH: It’s harmful to shelter kids from bullies and bad influences. They won’t learn how to defend themselves or to stand up for what’s right.
REALITY: Tender seedlings, like children, must develop a strong root system before they can weather the elements and thrive. That’s why greenhouses exist.
What Does Socialization Really Mean?
Let’s set aside for a minute how odd it is for people to fixate on socialization, and let’s define the concept:
Britannica.com’s Perspective: Socialization is the process by which an individual learns to adjust to a group or society, behaving in a manner approved by that group or society.
Merriam Webster’s Definition: Socialization is the childhood process through which individuals acquire the values, habits, and attitudes of a society.
Google’s Take: Socialization is the process of learning to behave in a way that is acceptable to society.
As parents, our goal is not to conform to societal expectations—but to nurture genuine connections, Godly character, and good manners.
Respond With Kindness
Approach the social question with patience and kindness. Take a deep breath and consider:
Your answer might be the first—and only—insight they receive into the world of homeschooling.
May your response be seasoned with grace!
Guest article courtesy of Stacy Farrell from This Old Schoolhouse
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