Finding a CM community in NH/MA

[Leslie]

After having enjoyed the fellowship of like-minded moms at the Leesburg, VA SCM Encouragement Conference, I am really wanting to connect with some local families who homeschool using Charlotte Mason’s methods. How have you been successful in either finding or starting such a group? I’ve searched on various Facebook groups (AO, Charlotte Mason Homeschoolers) and also this website (http://www.charlottemasonincommunity.com/), but haven’t seen anything in my area (Southern NH). Is there anywhere else to look for a group that might already be in existence?

Also, for those of you who have started your own groups, how did you start? I’m thinking of starting with a book study on For the Children’s Sake with some of the homeschooling families that I know from my church, advertising on Facebook, and other forums to invite others from the community. And then I’m thinking of buying the Learning and Living DVD set from SCM to watch with the group if all goes well. Am I on the right track?

Thanks for any advice!

Leslie

[missceegee]

I have a group in Jacksonville that I started in 2009. I’ve posted here over the years about it. You can see our website here – http://www.rchajax.com. We didn’t start with a book study, but if I were doing it over, I would start there and with something small like nature study.  That said, I love our group and it’s a tremendous blessing. I’m happy to answer specific questions as time permits.

Christie

[RobinP]

One of my library patrons was at that seminar, Leslie.  🙂  I’d give my eye teeth to go sometime.

[nebby]

Hi, Leslie. I  am south of Boston. Probably a bit far 🙁 It takes me 1.5 hrs to visit a friend in southern NH. I know a couple of people near me who I would say are interested in CM but I haven’t found a huge CM community in the area.

Nebby

http://www.lettersfromnebby.wordpress.com

[Leslie]

Christie,

Thanks for your input. I have heard you and others talk about their CM co-ops and I always think, ‘Only a veteran CM homeschooling mom could pull that off!’ But I’ve also been reading advice like, “If you want a CM style group in your area, start one yourself!” I’ll only have 1 year under my belt so I’m not quite ready for a full co-op, but I love the idea of hosting a book study. And your idea of including kids for a regular nature study just might work! I’m wondering if I could do the book study with just the moms one week and then the nature study with the kids the next week, alternating back and forth just to start off slow.

Lots to think about!

[Leslie]

Nebby,

If only we were a little closer! If we’re ever planning a field trip down your direction, I’ll reach out in case you want to join us 🙂

Leslie

[missceegee]

Our book study is once a month.  I doubt many could come more often than that.  We average 4-6 in attendance.  We open the book study to anyone.  I would try to keep the two separate. Book study is best undisturbed by littles imo.  Maybe just start there and perhaps occasional play time at a park for kids would be a good intro. to one another.

I left an eclectic coop to start rcha. I fashioned it after the group I left bc I had never seen or heard of a cm group, though I schooled cm style.  It’s been several years of tweaks and changes, but we are in a good groove. Not all of our moms school cm style, but all love what we offer. New members must be more cm than original ones simply bc we’ve modifies the application process. Best wishes on starting something. If you build it, they will come. 🙂

christie

[nebby]

Leslie– please do!

[Bensonre]

Hi Leslie,

I am new to the group, and came across your post.  We are in Southern NH (Brookline), and I would love to know if any groups have materialized or if this is something you are still pursuing!

Thanks!

–Becca

[nebby]

We have a group of moms that have started to get together once a month in Franklin, MA, but that would be pretty far from NH.

Nebby