I’m surprised that this question is still quite prevalent regarding home education. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, socialization is defined as a) “the process beginning during childhood by which individuals acquire values, habits, and attitudes of society,” and b) “social interaction with others.” When people ask regarding homeschooling and socialization, they usually seem concerned about the second definition. It’s a legitimate point; we want our children to learn how to get along with others in socially acceptable ways. As Christian parents, my husband and I were not that concerned about the first definition, however. In many ways, we did not want our children to adopt the “values, habits, and attitudes of society” in general. We wanted them to learn values and morals from a biblical perspective. We still believe that the best socialization of children happens at home within the immediate family, and through extended family, church family, and friends.
Socialization happens naturally within the family unit. If possible and desirable, social skills may also be learned while interacting with extended family such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. As acquaintances and friends enter your child’s world, try to intentionally set up situations for socialization that are positive and not chaotic. As your children grow, be selective regarding the co-curricular activities your teens participate in. The peers and adults they interact with will have significant influence on them, especially during these years. Of course, you want that impact to be positive and healthy. Looking back, socialization was not a problem for our family. We didn’t worry about it, but we did seek the Lord for wisdom and guidance regarding the activities, and therefore socialization, in which the children and our family should be involved. Guiding your children’s socialization is one of the best benefits of home education.
I leave you with a view of Saguaro cacti in the Sonora Desert.