6 Ways to Make Homeschool Mom Friends
Homeschooling is more than a form of education. It is a beautiful and rewarding way of life. However, to be honest, it can feel a little lonely at times. We moms spend much of our day pouring into our children, guiding lessons, planning meals, folding laundry, and all the rest. Don’t forget, in the midst of all that, you need support too. God made us for community, and we thrive when we have meaningful friendships. This is especially true for friendships rooted in shared faith and experiences.
So, what’s a Catholic homeschool mom to do when she yearns for genuine connection? Whether you’re brand new to homeschooling or just looking to deepen your sense of community, here are six tried-and-true ways to build beautiful, lasting friendships.
1. Join (or Start) a Local Homeschool Co-op
Co-ops are a natural way to build adult friendships while your children learn and socialize. You’ll meet other like-minded moms, and shared values often lead to deeper connections. Whether it’s a formal academic co-op or a casual play group, co-ops can offer consistent, organic opportunities to connect with others.
If you can’t find one near you, start your own! Don’t complain that nothing exists. Be the mom who makes it happen. Start small and simple. Invite a few families for weekly gatherings, prayer time, or shared lessons. Here are a couple of blog posts to help you get started: Small is Beautiful: Homeschool Edition and How to Start a Homeschool Co-op.
After deciding to homeschool, I learned that some local moms gathered for Mass on First Fridays. I went, and after Mass, a few moms invited me to the park. That day changed everything. My kids had a blast, and I made lasting friendships. We never looked back.
2. Attend Catholic Conferences and Retreats
Whether it’s a homeschool conference, a women’s retreat, or a parish event, these gatherings are gold mines for starting new friendships. You’ll be under the same roof as hundreds of like-minded women—take advantage of that! Look for events through your diocese, state homeschool organization, Catholic ministries, etc.
If you see someone looking at the same textbook you’ve been eyeing, strike up a conversation. Standing next to another mom at a vending table? Say hi. Sitting alone in a café area? Invite someone to join you, or ask to join them. You’d be surprised how quickly “strangers” become friends when you have homeschooling and the Faith in common.
3. Connect at Your Parish
Say yes to that parish moms’ group or Bible study. Volunteer for VBS or help with coffee & donuts. These are places where other Catholic homeschoolers often gather. Better yet, ask the parish secretary where the homeschoolers are hiding. She knows everyone.
Weekday Mass is another great connection point. I’ve met a number of homeschooling families just by showing up consistently for daily Mass. Bonus tip: Have your kids serve weekday Mass, and the other homeschooling moms will find you.
4. Use Catholic Social Platforms or Groups
Online communities can lead to real-life friendships, especially if you find someone nearby. Check out Facebook groups like Catholic Homeschool Moms or Homeschool Connections. Mighty Networks offers forums to help you connect with other homeschooling families, including Homeschool Connections and the Catholic Homeschool Community. Mighty Networks allows you to search members by geographical location, making it a great space to meet kindred spirits.
Sometimes the best friendships begin with a comment thread or prayer request.
5. Host a Simple Gathering
Making a new friend may mean simply taking the first step. Invite a few moms over for a coffee date, rosary group, or lunch potluck at the park. Keep it low-pressure. Keep it real. Let the community grow organically.
And if no one comes at first? Don’t give up. My daughter-in-law started a Friday park meet-up after Mass. For weeks, it was just her and her sister. But they stuck with it. Then one mom came… then another. A year later, it was one of the biggest local Catholic homeschool events around.
6. Take a Saxon Textbook Everywhere You Go
Yes, I’m serious.
Bring a Saxon math book to the park, the doctor’s office, or even Chick-fil-A. It’s the modern-day equivalent of the early Christians’ fish symbol. It screams “homeschooler,” and other moms will recognize you instantly.
Years ago, I had a child with serious medical issues, so we spent a lot of time in waiting rooms. My other kids did their schoolwork on the go, and more than once, we connected with fellow homeschoolers just because they saw a Saxon textbook on our laps.
A Final Word of Encouragement
You were not meant to walk this journey alone. Homeschooling is a mission, a holy calling, but it’s not always easy. Having a support system of faithful Catholic moms makes all the difference. So take a deep breath, ask the Holy Spirit for courage, and go make the first move. Say hi. Send the invitation. Smile at the mom across the church pew.
Start small, stay faithful, and friendships will come. And when they do, they’ll bless you and your family for years to come. I know, as I’ve been there. Now, go make a friend today. You’ve got this!
What are your thoughts on this topic? Join me and other homeschooling parents in the Homeschool Connections Facebook Group or in the HSC Community to continue the conversation.
