While there are many things that kids like about homeschooling, there are also aspects that some kids will inevitably focus on when homeschooling is being considered or has already been decided upon.

• No sports clubs
• No gym class with friends
• No school activity clubs (choir, band, art, creative writing)
• Not seeing friends daily
• Riding the bus (elementary school aged)

What types of things can be offered to combat this? Perhaps signing up your child for a soccer or hockey team outside of school. Or make a point of going places on the weekend where your child can play with other kids his or her own age, such as a popular park. Make a deal that your child gets half an hour to chat with friends on the phone or through instant messenger (if they are old enough) if all the day's school work is completed. Maybe take public transit to a nearby destination for your child who wants to ride a bus.

When you are able to offer counters to the negatives your child raises about homeschooling, it won't seem nearly as bad, especially for children who are definitely reluctant.