How to Socialise Homeschooled Kids
How to Socialise Homeschooled Kids (Without Awkwardness)
How to socialise homeschooled kids is one of the BIGGEST questions you get when the topic of homeschool comes up. And honestly I get it. Like where do you even begin?
One of the biggest myths about homeschooling is that homeschooled kids struggle with socialisation. The truth?
Homeschoolers aren’t actually hermits—unless you count doing math in pyjamas as living in solitude.
Homeschooled children have plenty of opportunities to develop social skills, but it does require some effort from you—because, let’s face it, throwing them into a random group of kids and hoping for the best is a bit like tossing a cat into a monkey park.
If you're a homeschooling parent wondering how to help your child build friendships and engage confidently with others—without the awkwardness—this guide is for you!
1. Start Early and Keep It Consistent
Socialisation is a skill, and like learning to ride a bike, it improves with practice (and sometimes, a few metaphorical scraped knees). Encourage regular social interactions from an early age by setting up playdates, attending stay and plays, participating in story time in your local library, or attending community events. It's all about consistency—just like everything else - consistency really is the key!
Don't let me saying "start young" put you off or make you enter panic mode - it’s never too late. If your kids are older, even into their teens, don’t think it’s too late. The best time to start was when they were toddlers, the second best time is now!
It's not hard to socialise homeschooled kids
2. Find the Right Groups and Activities
Not every kid is cut out for every social setting—forcing a book-loving introvert onto a soccer team might not end well. Here are some great options:
- Homeschool Co-ops: These groups offer structured classes where kids can socialise regularly, and you get to chat with other parents about how much coffee you need and what little sleep you get.
- Sports Teams: Great for kids who enjoy running, teamwork, and the occasional grass stain.
- Clubs and Extracurriculars: Think scouts, chess club, robotics teams, or drama groups—because every kid should know how to fake cry on cue. (Wait - I think every kid already has that skill!)
- Community Events: Library programs, art workshops, and volunteer opportunities—aka ways to trick your kid into being social while also doing something productive. Just don't tell them it's productive otherwise the enthusiasm might wear off.
By choosing activities that align with your child's interests, you make socialising homeschooled kids a breeze for yourself. And to your child it feels less like a chore and more like a side quest in their favourite video game.
Socialising can be simple
3. Teach Social Skills Naturally
Homeschooled kids often spend a lot of time with adults, meaning they can hold a conversation about historical events but might struggle with small talk about Roblox or the latest hype in school (I will never understand a 9 year olds obsession with a Stanley). Help socialise your homeschooled kids by:
- Modelling Social Behaviour: Show how to introduce oneself, make small talk, and avoid awkwardly waving from across the room when a simple "hello" would do.
- Role-Playing Scenarios: Practice conversations at home so they don’t freeze up when someone asks, "What's up?"
- Encouraging Group Activities: Playing board games, doing group projects, or even casual hangouts can help kids learn the subtle art of not dominating every conversation about their latest obsession.
4. Host a cooking class or something similar
Hosting something is a ploy to get people over. Your kids are most comfortable when at home so inviting someone down means they are on their own territory. Like recently my daughter ran a crochet club. We limited it to 5 kids and she had an absolute blast making new local friends who have similar interests (since they also love and want to learn crocheting).
When we were in the planning stages she was really nervous (although still wanted to go ahead with it) and now that it’s over she can’t wait to host another one!
Not everyone is a social butterfly
5. Encourage Friendships Outside of Homeschooling
If your only social group is other homeschoolers, you could encourage friendships with neighbours (if you have kids on your street - please tell me why we have almost no kids on our street!), cousins, or kids from extracurriculars. You want your kid to be adaptable, this can really help boost their confidence.
6. Be Patient and Let Friendships Develop Organically
Not every child is a social butterfly, and that’s okay!
One thing I think homeschoolers start to forget (or anyone who is against homeschooling) is that everyone is different. Some people just don’t like socialising much. Some people are just more shy than others. If your homeschool child is shy/quiet and not really a people person, just remind yourself there are so many kids who go to school who are also shy/quiet.
This isn't a homeschool exclusive trait!
Homeschooling isn’t the reason they are shy, it’s their personality. And since when has being shy been a bad thing?
