Overview
What it is
Co-ops (cooperatives) and support groups are how homeschoolers build community and share the load. A co-op is a group of families who learn together — sharing teaching, classes, and activities — while a support group offers community, advice, and social opportunities. Both make homeschooling more connected, more fun, and more sustainable.
Community
Community & support
- Academic co-opsFamilies teach classes to each other's children (science labs, writing, history, languages) — sharing expertise
- Enrichment co-opsFocused on art, music, PE, drama, clubs, and field trips
- Drop-off / tutorial programsMore formal programs where students attend classes taught by hired teachers a day or two a week
- Support groupsParent community for advice, encouragement, park days, and events
- Faith-based or secularBoth exist — choose what fits your family
- Online communitiesFor advice, curriculum reviews, and connection anywhere
Tips
Tips for success
- Try a fewCultures and commitments differ — find your fit
- Understand the commitmentSome co-ops ask parents to teach or volunteer
- Match to your goalsAcademic support vs enrichment vs pure community
- Start small if neededA few families can form a simple co-op or park-day group
- Use associations to find themState and local homeschool groups list options
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- What's a homeschool co-op?A group of families who learn together, sharing teaching and activities.
- How is that different from a support group?Support groups focus on community and advice; co-ops focus on shared learning.
- Do I have to teach?In many co-ops, yes — parents share the load; drop-off programs hire teachers.
- Are there secular co-ops?Yes — both faith-based and secular options exist.
- How do I find one?Through local and state homeschool groups, associations, and online communities.
At a Glance
Key facts
- Co-opsFamilies learn together (shared classes/activities)
- Support groupsCommunity, advice & social opportunities
- TypesAcademic, enrichment, drop-off/tutorial
- FlavorsFaith-based & secular
- Find viaLocal & state homeschool groups
Learn More
Where to learn more
Find community and social opportunities: