Preparing for the Homeschool Convention - Part 1 - Education - Homeschooling

So, you've made the commitment to dive into homeschooling and now you're going to your very first homeschool convention?! How exciting! BUT, how intimidating! There is SO MUCH to see and do at the convention --- I recommend taking some time to be prepared BEFORE your arrival.

First, make sure it's in the budget. Buying homeschool curriculum in the vendor hall at the convention is only a fraction of what you'll spend. Don't forget the food, lodging, and travel expenses, as well. If attending a convention is going to set you back with debt, then it's probably best to bypass it this year and instead, make plans to attend next year. Decide your spending allotment for the event and then simply divide to determine how much to squirrel away over the course of the year. This will allow you plenty of time to put money aside for your convention allowance.

If the budget is NOT an issue, then it's time to get down to the business of planning! Begin by reviewing the seminar speaker/topic list and look for your favorite authors, speakers, and subjects. If you're really new to homeschooling, then browse the list to hone in on the titles your homeschooling friends have enthusiastically endorsed. No input from fellow homeschoolers? Then just tag the ones that call out to you as you read through the workshop descriptions. Remember, you don't have to be "married" to the choices you earmark ahead of time. You never know - you might meet someone in the coffee line that shares a real plum with you. Be prepared ahead of time, but be flexible in case you want to switch gears once you're on-site at the event.

Don't forget about your husband if he's attending with you. Review the seminar topics a SECOND time with your husband and ask him what he's interested in. If he is not planning to attend, then you should still take the time to review the list with him, as he can give you his input on the topic list. Sometimes he can see things you miss and he can give you a fresh perspective by suggesting topics that he has observed needs attention in your classroom.

What about the kids? Will they accompany you? If so, take the time to review the seminar topic list a THIRD time looking for home school curriculum of interest to your children. This homeschooling gig is a family affair. There's no reason why they shouldn't get their batteries recharged at the convention, too!

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