For some children, activities out and about in their community could be the only chance at socialization they have. The great news is that most communities are full of things to do for your family. Some of them are fun, some educational, but all are activities to get your family involved in your community.
- Team Sports – Most cities and even small towns offer community sports options for children and often adults. Depending on the season you should be able to sign up your child/ren for everything from baseball, softball, soccer, football and more. You should expect to pay affordable fees for uniforms and other organizational costs, but your children will get to enjoy being part of their community and making new friends.
- After-School Groups – After-school groups aren’t just for children who attend the school. In most areas, after-school groups and events are also opened to home-schooled children in the area. This is a great way to get your children involved in educational activities, while allowing them to meet like-minded friends. If your children enjoy this venue, take advantage of all they have to offer. You’ll find everything from vocational type classes, such as wood shops, to second language building gatherings. Each city or town likely has their own set schedule of offerings. Contact the junior or high school closest to you for a schedule.
- Clubs and Organizations – Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and other children’s clubs and organizations can usually keep children busy regardless of what seasons your region experiences every year. Shops, meetings and even expos are frequent but you should also be prepared for just as frequent costs. While membership is often free with organizations and some clubs, these venues are usually mostly supported by parent donations or earned in bake sales and more. The good news is that you’ll stay busy, your children will be a part of the community, and more often than not, you’ll find yourself doing something good for the community at large. And that brings us to the last one.
- Volunteering – Volunteering in your community with your children in tow can be fundamental. In most areas you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Spend a day in a soup kitchen, or helping out at your local Goodwill. Have one of your clubs or organizations adopt a highway and spend one day per month cleaning it up. Volunteer to be on a HUD housing building crew. It can be a truly bonding family moment to donate your time to the cause of another, with absolutely no expected return on your investment in sight.
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