According to Dr. Brian D. Ray of the National Home Education Research Association, homeschooling is currently increasing at a rate of 7% to 12% a year and may be the fastest-growing form of education in the United States.

In response, the number of homeschooling conferences has also increased. Are these conventions really worth the time and effort it takes to attend? My answer is a resounding "YES!" So often, I hear parents share that they won't be attending a convention because they have already chosen their curriculum for the year or they just don't know if it's worth the effort of making childcare and travel arrangements.

Let me share with you a few of the benefits of a convention.

Dad Gets Attention!
Conventions are one of the few places that fathers receive encouragement and direction from other homeschooling men. Speakers directed specifically to fathers offer your "principal" support and encourage him to be a vital part of your homeschool. A strong, involved leader makes all the difference.

Face-to-Face Contact
Conventions allow the opportunity to meet with publishers and suppliers face-to-face. Ask questions, peruse new offerings, and understand the philosophy behind the products you are considering.

Be Encouraged!
The support and motivation received from speakers and workshops is one of the most beneficial aspects of a convention. Homeschooling requires serious effort - we occasionally need serious renewal! Good speakers with creative and encouraging messages provide just that.

Check Out All the Goodies!
Even if you're a "curriculum junkie" like me, there is always something new to discover. One of my best discoveries was Bulk Cooking software that I would never have expected to find at a homeschool convention.

Why Am I Doing This, Again?!
The occasional reminder to focus on our child's character development over academic achievements can be a great blessing.

Meet Friends!
Homeschooling can oftentimes be an isolating undertaking. Simply being surrounded by a group of like-minded folks who share many of our goals and ideals is both uplifting and encouraging.

Homeschooling is a major commitment, and we are right to give ourselves the tools, motivation, and support we need to do it well.

Dena Wood is a homeschooling mom of five and resides in Washington state. She is co-owner of Trigger Memory Systems, which produces and markets nontraditional educational materials, including Times Tales and Memory Triggers. You can visit her websites at www.TimesTales.com or www.CreativeHomeschooling.com or contact her at triggermemory@charter.net.