Between the Lines at a Convention

We are gearing up for traveling to homeschool conventions over the next several weeks. And as I check each convention’s website for a schedule, I am reminded how much that goes on at a convention is not on the schedule. So much of the benefit of attending a convention is hidden between the lines of the schedule.

Now, don’t get me wrong. The schedule gives the times and topics of the main sessions and the workshops; those are a huge and important part of each convention! I love to present workshops and watch the mental lightbulbs go on as homeschool parents grab hold of a new idea or find reassurance for their personal situations. The scheduled sessions and events encourage and equip in a way that not much else can!

But one thing I have noticed again and again as we have traveled to many different conventions in many different states is the one-on-one or one-on-two special encouragement and counseling and help that occurs during the moments between sessions.

It happens all the time in our SCM booth in the exhibit hall. Two moms will be perusing the shelves; a third one comes and asks a question about a particular method or a situation she is facing with one of her children. As soon as that question comes out of that mom’s mouth, the other two moms look up with a “You Too?” expression on their faces. And soon all of us are chatting together about something that affects all our lives. We swap ideas; we exchange experiences and tips; we laugh together and sometimes cry together. And when we’re done, we realize that we are not alone in our trials, and we feel encouraged and equipped to keep going.

All from a few unscheduled moments between the lines at a convention.

I look forward to sharing moments like those with some of you during the upcoming months. Check the list below to see where we will be.

If you would like more thoughts on getting the most out of a homeschool convention, read these helpful articles:

• Preparing for a Homeschool Convention
• 5 Things to Remember when You’re Planning Your Homeschool Curriculum
• 2 Great Reasons to Attend a Homeschool Convention