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For many people who homeschool, social skills is one of their main concerns (other than figuring out the curriculum and how to do it all). Providing ways for their child to socialize with other kids can be especially difficult thanks to the pandemic, too. After all, these situations are built-in to public schools, whereas homeschooling families need to be a bit more proactive.
Although it's a myth that homeschooled kids lack social skills, that doesn’t mean homeschooling families — old or new — can’t use some ideas to keep their kids involved socially (especially during COVID).
Why are social skills important: Ideas for staying social during COVID
Due to COVID and the ensuing quarantine, isolation, and stress, we do not yet know the full impact of the pandemic on a generation of children (and adults) and their socialization and mental health.
“We do know that physical boundaries and interpersonal interactions have changed and will most likely continue to change,” therapist Lisa Choi, M.A., told Mom.com. “Social skill competencies may look very different in a decade due to these cultural shifts induced by a global health crisis.”
1. Connecting with family
Don’t forget: Your family is made up of people who give various social and emotional cues! “Past literature has shown that one of the biggest factors in children developing positive relationships with peers and managing emotions is actually a secure parent/caregiver attachment,” said Choi.
Navigating sibling and parent relationships can provide a lot of practice in dealing with peers as well as adults in the world at large. You can model conversations and work through conflict with siblings or with your child one on one.
Writer Marie Bentley Shaurette told us that her 10-year-old hasn’t attended any of his co-ops or activities since March 2020 due to her concerns over people not wearing masks. “Luckily he has three adult siblings in the home that he interacts with. Kids don't necessarily need to be around other children their same age to 'learn to socialize,’” said Shaurette.
2. Errands and living life
Now that the world is opening up a bit more, it’s a little easier to bring the kids along while you conduct daily living. “As homeschoolers, our kids interact with people in everyday situations, from the employees at the post office to the contractor coming in and out of our home during a remodel,” added Shaurette.
Online and in-person activities for social skills
Of course, family is great — but it’s also important for children to interact with other trusted adults, teachers, and their peers. “Our kids are currently doing choir, science, art mornings, park days, etc., and we were COVID cautious!” homeschooling mom-of-four Jacqueline Cromwell told Mom.com. “Last year there were virtual game nights, Bible studies, and an in-person high school graduation.”
Here are some ways your kids can be social, online and off.
3. Social media apps for kids
Whether it’s a social media app catering specifically to kids (e.g., Club Penguin, PopJam, or ChatFoss) or one that has been modified to be safe for children to use (e.g., Facebook messenger for kids), social media can be a way for kids to chat, learn how to use online spaces properly, and hang out with friends virtually.
4. Online classes
There are online platforms to facilitate socialization like Outschool, a charter school, or more ad hoc classes conducted via Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Whatever you choose, your children can participate in classes with other kids and families and get to know classmates during the interstitial moments before and after class.
5. Form a pod
Much like when the pandemic was in full swing, you can do as Sally Kim did with her daughter. “We have been hanging out with one other family, who is like-minded, at their house every other week,” Kim told Mom.com. Find families and set up regular meetups so your kids can get used to one another and build meaningful friendships with kids they can chat with between playdates.
6. Community classes
Many local cities and towns have a parks and recreation department. If you are comfortable with in-person meetings, you can meet a lot of local kids through these classes. Maybe you’ll find another family you can set up a regular playdate with, too!
How to improve social skills by joining groups and clubs
While classes are an easy way to meet people, you can also sign your child up for clubs like 4-H, your local homeschooling groups, and depending on your state, even clubs at your local public school.
7. Field trips
Whether through a homeschool co-op, Facebook group, or you just happen to know a few homeschooling families, you can arrange field trips to local factories, the fire department, or even city hall. Not only will your kids learn about their communities, they can meet friends, too.
8. Clubs offered by virtual class platforms
Mom-of-two Crystal Turnau started using Outschool for social opportunities that are COVID-safe. “The site offers virtual classes and clubs for a variety of interests,” said Turnau. “For example, my 15-year-old is involved in a social club for anime/manga fans and a collaborative RPG class for LGBTQ kids and allies.”
9. Team sports
Sign up for local team sports like Little League or Mustang Soccer. Though they can be pricey, team sports can also provide a lot of opportunities for children to socialize with other kids their age and learn a sport as well.
