Tips and Techniques to Get the Most Out of a Homeschool Convention
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about homeschool conventions. This post is a follow-up to that blog. Today I will provide tips to help you get the most out of your homeschool conference experience.
1. PRE-REGISTER
Discounts are often offered for early registration. Saving money on entrance fees will mean more cash to purchase needed items.
Also, if you have limited funds, check the convention’s website for special discounts. I’ve seen discounts offered for military and pastor’s families. Some venues even offer free tickets in exchange for volunteering a set number of hours.
2. BOOK EARLY
Booking early may get you the best rate on a hotel, especially if the convention has a block of rooms set aside for attendees.
3. JOIN THE CONVENTION’S SOCIAL MEDIA PAGE
Any updates such as speaker cancellations will be posted on social media. It’s also a good place to connect with other families, have your questions answered, and to learn about what to expect or what to bring.
4. PLAN AHEAD
Whenever I plan a trip, I begin making a list of items to bring about 6 weeks ahead of our departure date. It may seem extreme, but this allows me to add items as I think of them so that by the time we leave I have everything we need – well, most of the time!
Get a small notebook. In it write a list of items (especially books) you already have. This will help avoid confusion (do we own this or not?), disappointment (oh we DON’T already own this, I should have bought it!) or unnecessary expense from purchasing an item you already own. Ask me how I know! Sigh.
In addition to this, assign a page to each of your children and outline your plan for them in each subject area. List the resources and manipulatives you wish to examine and/or purchase. Carry this list with you while shopping.
Bonus – use this notebook to take notes and write recommendations from the keynote speakers and the other families you meet. Their experience is an invaluable resource.
5. DO YOUR RESEARCH
This is especially important if you are new to homeschooling.
Spend some time learning about the different homeschool philosophies you wish to explore and potentially use. In addition, looking at some of the curriculum types online will help you get a better idea of which booths to visit and focus on.
6. MAKE A LIST OF PRIORITIES
Ask yourself, “what is my purpose for attending?” Is it learning about parenting techniques, gaining encouragement or advice, meeting like-minded people, or getting your hands on the latest curriculum and resources?
Consider your learning priorities for the year. Do you want to try family-style learning? Unit Studies? Find out which booths meet your needs and begin there.
Make a list of your child’s interests and preferred learning styles. If they are older, get them involved in the planning process.
Finally, create a list of specific questions you have for presenters or curricula representatives.
With so much information, excited energy, and commotion at the conference, having these lists will help prevent overwhelm and keep you focused.
7. MAKE A (TENTATIVE) SCHEDULE
With so many excellent speakers, fun activities, and products to view it can be difficult to fit it all in. Some conferences have multiple speaker sessions occur at the same time so you will have to decide which to attend.
Keep in mind that last-minute changes to these speaker lineups may occur, so your plans may need to be altered. When possible, have a ‘back up plan’ or second choice.
Having a plan, even a flexible one, will help you make the most of your time.
8. SET A BUDGET
Trust me, you don’t have to buy ‘all the things’.
Avoid impulse buys. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and buy stuff you don’t need or won’t use. Take stock of what you really need, add a few items you wish to try and stick to it.
Having two lists – a ‘must buy’ and a ‘want to buy’ list may help you stay on track with your needs but also allow for some fun purchases without breaking the bank.
Be honest with yourself – are you really going to use this resource or are you feeling pressure to buy it ’cause it’s new or popular?
9. TAKE A WAGON, CART, or STROLLER TO CARRY YOUR STUFF
Books are heavy!
These venues are large and it can be a long walk back to hotel room or vehicle. A cart of some sort to transport heavy items can be a lifesaver. Be sure to check the venue rules, as not all types of carts are allowed.
10. MAKE SURE YOUR PHONE IS FULLY CHARGED
This will allow you to keep in touch with family and friends if you get separated, allows you to save new friends’ contact information, and can be a quick and easy way to make notes for yourself.
11. EAT A GOOD BREAKFAST
Outside food is not allowed at most venues. Lines can be long, and you will not want to miss part (or all) of an event stuck in line waiting to order food.
12. ALLOW YOURSELF TIME TO SOCIALIZE
Life-long friendships have been forged at conventions!
13. GET HELP WITH SMALL CHILDREN
If possible, bring someone along who can help with small children. This allows you to focus on learning and shopping. You will be exhausted at the end of the day and having another set of hands to help with meals, baths, and bedtime can be a lifesaver.
