Not Back To School Party

"What is most important and valuable about the home as a base for children's growth into the world is not that it is a better school than the schools, but that it isn't a school at all."

--John Holt

Today, this lovely, warm, sunny September day, about 15 families from our local Homeschool group headed off to the beach to celebrate not going back to school. The kids played, the parents visited (and knitted) or just sat in the sun. We chatted with old friends, and welcomed new families to the fold. The younger kids splashed in the water or played in the sand. The older kids disappeared into the woods to build forts and plan out complex battle strategies. And in the eight (yes, 8!!) hours that we were there, not a tear, not a scream, not a name called or feelings hurt. I really do love that about homeschooling gatherings. The kids, more used to being in groups of different ages and backgrounds, seem somehow more accepting of differences than I tend to see in traditionally schooled kids. Being different is alright, since they are all a little different, anyway.

Thanks to everyone who made this such a wonderful day in the sun!