Disclaimer

The information provided about support groups is for informational purposes only. While we strive to keep it accurate and up to date, we do not guarantee that all information is complete, accurate, or current. Each support group is responsible for its own operations, schedules, and internal procedures. Therefore, we are not responsible for inaccurate information, unreported changes, or groups that are no longer active. We encourage you to contact each group directly to confirm details before attending or participating.

I Want to Start a Support Group... Where Do I Begin?

Homeschooling is a rewarding educational option for many families. For some, a support group provides lasting friendships; for others, it offers encouragement, guidance, and a place to share experiences and challenges.

The reality is that no single support group will perfectly meet the needs of every family. Each group has its own purpose, philosophy, and style. If you have not found a group that fits your family's needs, consider starting one of your own.

Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.

1. Find Families with Similar Interests and Goals

Connect with other homeschooling families who share your vision and would enjoy building a supportive community together.

You do not need a large number of families to begin. A support group can start with just two or more families.

You can find interested families by:

Talking with homeschooling families you already know.

Browsing the TCHERs Support Group Directory.

Contacting TCHERs for guidance.

Searching through social media communities.

Share your vision and invite others to help build the group together.

2. Organize Your First Meeting

Choose a date, time, and location, then invite interested families to gather for an introductory meeting.

3. Choose a Name for Your Group

Select a name that reflects your group's identity and purpose.

Whenever possible, involve both parents and children in the naming process so everyone feels part of the community from the beginning.

4. Create Group Guidelines

Develop a simple set of guidelines that reflects your group's mission and expectations.

These guidelines may address topics such as:

Expected behavior.

Membership requirements.

Group values.

Participation expectations.

Decision-making processes.

Although written guidelines are not required, many groups find that they help create clarity, maintain organization, and encourage long-term growth.

5. Define Leadership Responsibilities

Decide how your group will be organized.

Some groups elect a leadership team that includes positions such as:

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Others simply designate two or three coordinators who help organize activities and guide the group when decisions need to be made.

Regardless of the structure you choose, it is helpful to assign responsibilities for tasks such as:

Planning field trips.

Maintaining the activity calendar.

Welcoming new families.

Coordinating events.

Managing communications.

6. Develop an Activity Calendar

Create a calendar that includes meetings, educational activities, workshops, field trips, celebrations, and other events.

Invite both parents and children to contribute ideas.

Some groups prefer to plan the entire school year in advance, while others organize activities as opportunities arise. Choose the approach that best fits your community.

7. Build a Member Contact List

Maintain a contact list that may include:

Phone numbers

Email addresses

Mailing addresses (if desired)

Having accurate contact information helps everyone stay connected.

8. Decide How Your Group Will Communicate

Choose one or more communication platforms that work well for your members.

Common options include:

Facebook Groups

Google Groups

WhatsApp

Telegram

Email

Shared calendars and reminders can also help members stay informed about upcoming events and important dates.

Important Note

Every homeschool support group is independent and operates according to its own mission, philosophy, and guidelines.

TCHERs provides this directory as a free community service by listing groups that request to be included. Listing a group does not imply endorsement of its beliefs, practices, or activities.

Some groups function primarily as support communities, while others operate as organizations that provide parent training, educational workshops, or additional services. Some offer these services free of charge, while others may charge participation fees.

We encourage families to visit several groups before joining one so they can experience the diversity within the homeschooling community and find the group that best fits their family's needs.

If there is not yet a support group in your area, TCHERs is happy to provide free guidance on how to start one. Simply contact us at contact@tchers.net.

If you are the leader of a homeschool support group, we invite you to contact us at contact@tchers.net to have your group listed in our directory at no cost. Please review the format used by the other listings and submit a brief description of your group in English or Spanish for publication.