Home educators-so, what about socialisation?

[merglemergle]

Our son is 7 months old. However, we're not ones for making snap decisions and we're looking into home educating.

The problem is, we're not very sociable and he seems to be.

I've read lots of books: Holt, Gatto, Free Range Education (>...too smug for my liking, nearly put partner completely off whole idea-we don't especially like Blue Peter).

The trouble is, when I was growing up I did know some kids who were being educated at home and honestly, they were social misfits. That's what preys on my mind whenever I think about HEing our son.

I'd really appreciate some feedback on this. We've got to make a decision one way or another within the next 4 years...

Just to say my friend's neigbour home educates her ds. Thinks it's great and that there is a network set up so children meet up which enables them to mix with other childen. Also outings arranged , this also involves the parents meeting up as well, but your choice. She said she thinks this is great but said it isn't a long term solution to home educate her child. Hopes this helps Larsxx

Here is the best online article I know of about socialisation: www.tnhomeed.com/LRSocial.html

I have home educated my 5 yr old son for the last year, because 6 months of reception class traumatised him to the point of depression, self-harm and daily toilet accidents at school. He has aspergers syndrome and hypermobile joints. His healthcare team have all commented on the amazing progress he has made at home, but it is SUCH hard work having a school age aspie around 24/7.(less hassle though than having to deal with the extreme behaviours school caused though).

We will probably home ed at some stage. There are lots of local home edding groups- if I was you I would find your local one and join them. You'll get time to see whether you like them or not.

Alos check out muddlepuddle

artistmum-that is an excellent article.

Its not that I hate other people at all. Its more that I don't know a huge range of people doing varied jobs. Pretty much everyone I choose to spend time with is like us-left wing, namby pamby liberals who bake their own bread and recycle. I had to ask my dad to put up a shelf recently cos we're so bad with power tools. I do worry that we'll have a 5 year old who can quote Edward Said and read the Guardian and that does make me a bit uneasy. But then I supose the arguement is that schools just brainwash another way. . Yeah, jimjams, i think joining a local group is the answer.

This seems like a HUGE step and really, it isn't, its just continuing with what you would be do anyway before they are five.

Stupidgirl hes.

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oh dear I bake my own bread (but only becuase I have to as ds1 is gluten free)

My mum teaches my brother(7) and sisters(10 and 12) at home and is part of education otherwise. If you wanted I could send you her email address, she would love to help you decide I'm sure. My sisters and brother aren't short of friends, some go to school, some are home ed. My mum has also made lots of friends through education otherwise. Good luck!