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Top 10 Reasons to attend a GHC

“I feel like such a nerd mom” was exactly what I said to my husband as we walked into the Great Homeschool Convention 4 years ago. The convention hall was buzzing with people and information and I felt like I was the only one who didn’t know what I was doing. I assumed that everyone else had it all figured out. (Isn’t that was we usually do as moms…think that all the others have it figured out and we are the only ones on the struggle bus).

After attending the sessions, meeting some very sweet families, and daydreaming about how I could use all the beautiful curriculum that was displayed, I was more than glad that I had gone. And I felt much less “nerdy” haha

Four years later, I realize that attending the Homeschool Convention was one of the best decisions I could make for the future success of our homeschool.

This post will highlight the reasons that attending the Great Homeschool Convention could transform your homeschool journey.

1. Expert Speakers & Encouragement

The GHS always brings in top speakers who have authority on the subject of homeschooling and parenting. I did not know what to expect going into the event, but I was surprised at how well the speakers were able to simplify the different teaching methods.

It was also great to hear their experiences and advice for all things homeschooling. To this day, I still have (and use) some of the notes I jotted down during the sessions. I was introduced to experts in homeschooling that I am able to go to when I have doubts or questions.

At the end of the sessions, many of them made themselves available for people to come and ask them questions.

2. Curriculum & Resource Fair

One of the best things about the Great Homeschool Convention is their curriculum and resource/book fair. It is an enormous set up of tables and booth showcasing curriculums, books, and other resources that you can use in your homeschool.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all the options, the book fair helps you to make a more confident decision about your homeschool curriculum.

I loved the fact that I could chat with the reps about the curriculums and touch the books to see how they are before actually purchasing them. Many times you can purchase books on the spot which is really nice too.

3. Practical Workshops

You can attend a workshop that will help you to choose the right curriculum for your homeschool, the right teaching method for your family, or ways to engage teenagers. They have workshops available for you to help your child get into the right college. Or you could join the Homeschool 101 workshop that helps you to know how to get started.

These tools are really so useful and will take out the guessing game as it gives you more confidence in your homeschool.

4. Community & Networking

I met some of the nicest people at the GHS. I remember getting to know a particular family after one of the sessions and it made me feel so much more normal. We shared experiences of our homeschool journeys and I realized that I was indeed NOT the only one who didn’t have it all together.

I don’t know about you but meeting people who are in the same life experience as you can be so life giving and encouraging.

5. Christian Perspective & Biblical Encouragement

I know that not all homeschoolers are Christian, but for us this was a big plus for visiting the Great Homeschool Convention. It is important for us to teach our children in a Christ centered world view so having the resources for that all in one place is KEY!

It was refreshing to be surrounded by so much positivity and truths.

6. Kids & Teen Programs

One of the highlights for my daughter was the kids programs that they offered as a part of the family package.

It was fun, clean entertainment for the whole family. We were introduced to “Slugs and Bugs” which has really fun music videos that sings about the Bible. It has been a fun addition to our homeschool.

My kids are huge fans now and I never would have heard of them if it wouldn’t have been for the GHS

7. Special Needs & Unique Learning Styles Support

Another great resource that is available to you at the convention is support for different learning styles.

Again, this can be found in their curriculum fair or in some of the sessions but it is worth noting.

For parents who are struggling with special learning needs or difficulties in their homeschools, this is a great way to find support groups and tools that can help you.

8. Access to Homeschooling experts and one-on-one advice

When I say that you have access to these people, you really do!!!

They literally hang out at the booths all day and hang around for a long time after their sessions. If there is a group of people who I have found to be super helpful and accessible it is homeschooling moms, experts, and veterans.

Make sure you go with a list of questions and take advantage of their availability while you are there!! What a gift!

9. A refreshing break from the everyday routine

So its definitely not a vacation alright, BUT it can be an enjoyable break from the normal homeschool routine.

If the convention is not happening in your city, you could take a trip with the whole family; enjoy a nice hotel or airbnb stay; and get to know a city that you otherwise would not travel to. If the convention is happening in your city, you could leave the kids with the grandparents and enjoy some much needed mom/dad alone time.

Either way, any excuse for a homeschool field trip is always a good one!

10. Inspiration for the long-term homeschool journey

This is the last point but it is probably the most important of all.

Too often, in our homeschools we can get tied up in the details of organization, curriculum, books, activities, lessons, room decor, and planning.

But the most valuable thing that can be taken away from the Great Homeschool Convention is the inspiration and long-term vision. It helped me to be able to solidify the WHY of homeschooling and gave me the confidence that I needed to say that “I will not ruin my kids by homeschooling them“!!!