Co-op Classes

Years ago when the girls were still in elementary school, a couple of us homeschoolers would get together at each others houses every other week or so for some group learning and socializing. We did that for a school year and then stopped - I guess maybe life got busy?! Since, then, we still have the homeschool group and have some field trips and park days, but nothing like a co-op situation.

Last year, several moms started mentioning it again and we began to meet, plan and brainstorm. What kinds of classes was everyone interested in, how often, how long, how many, etc. So many decisions and little details to work out. After it was all said and done, we came up with a plan that seemed to agree with everyone. There are many ways to "do" a co-op, but this seems to be best for us right now. Here is what we are doing:

We meet at one of the mom's homes (thank you Melissa!!!) every other week for about 3 hours. This seems to make it manageable for everyone's schedule, yet still allows for adequate learning time. We divided the children up into 2 groups - one for elementary and the other for jr. high and high school with a total of 17 children in all. Each group has 3 classes that meets for about 50-60 minutes each.

The older children are taking a Writing Class:


An art class - here they are drawing their hand without looking at the paper:


And a Yearbook/Newsletter class:


By the end of the school year, we will have published 4 Newsletters and a Yearbook documenting each family, our co-op and our field trips!

They also enjoy a little downtime to chat in between classes:


The younger group is also taking an art class:


Drawing caterpillars:


A Literature/Lapbooking class:


And they will contribute to the Newsletter and Yearbook as well - they have already turned in their first assignments!

Like the olders, they too enjoy the downtime between classes:


The whole group, aged 5-15:


I will honestly admit that before we began, I was a little intimidated and maybe a little overwhelmed at how it would actually work - off the paper and in real life! However, from our first class on, it has been just so wonderful. The children are doing well with the classes, they are ready to go when it is time for class to start and quick to come and do whatever their next task is. The moms are enjoying sharing the teaching with each other and enjoying some down time of their own - sort of! (What homeschool mom ever has TRUE downtime??!!) We began the first co-op with prayer and since then, it has all felt just right! I pray that it continues to be a blessing to all and that these children grow and let their lights shine for Jesus!