Adult Socialisation

It really isn't like that - being at home full time with your child. You don't have to be cooped up at all. In fact, I don't think I've ever felt less cooped up. When my son was little he did go to playgroups and I did work part time, (only a few hours a week) until he was 4. I've actually loved having more freedom now that we are together all day.

There is absolutely no need to stay at home - we go out every day as we both need that break form being in the house. It can be simple like a bike ride or a walk in the park, or it might be something totally suited to him such as a gym class or a visit to a train museum, or it could be things that appeal to both of us, or even particularly to me. For example, we've been to loads of museums and art galleries together, things that I really enjoy - free or at reduced schools rates, and although maybe I would spend more time there if I wasn't with a child, I would never have got  to see so many exhibitions. We go to concerts aimed at children, but enjoyable never the less, and have seen about 4 operas. We go to the sea, or follow a river and visit it in different spots along its route, go for train rides and go to lots of historic buildings. We've explored all kinds of museums, and attended science lectures and I'm really learning a lot and am discovering new interests myself. We are learning French together, and recently my son has started learning to sail and I have even had a go at that. It is really not at all the kind of thing I would have done without his influence, and I loved it. Even staying in we have fun - developing projects for the garden, making candles and Christmas presents, - things I enjoy and get satisfaction from doing.

As for adult company, I did find it hard before I knew about Home Education and I was just mixing with the local mums at the toddler group. Whilst I got on fine with people, I couldn't find anyone with whom I had much in common. Through Home Education groups I've met much more interesting people and get to see them regularly - chatting in the cafe whilst our children do gym, or going on outings with another family, or meeting in the evening for a drink.

Many people worry about not using skills that they have valued in their careers, but it is worth considering whether there could be a role for them in the local Home Education group, or even in a National one? Perhaps organising outings, writing for a newsletter, or working directly with the children?  And there's the best bit - seeing your child learn and develop, sharing their new discoveries, growing closer, showing them all kinds of new things, and having them show you too - That can be really rewarding