The Top 20 Ways to Make Friends as a Homeschooler in NYC

Making friends as a homeschooler in NYC can be both challenging and rewarding. While the city offers countless activities and opportunities, finding a tight-knit community takes effort, patience, and sometimes a bit of creativity. We’ve compiled the top 20 strategies from experienced parents in the NYC homeschooling community, starting with the less popular but still valuable tips, and ending with the most tried-and-true methods.

20. Engage in Online Gaming Communities

Online gaming can be a surprising avenue for friendship, especially for older kids who enjoy connecting with peers virtually. Look for local homeschooling gaming groups where kids can play together and meet up in person when possible.

19. Use Local Social Media Groups

Don’t underestimate the power of Facebook and other social media platforms. Join local homeschooling groups, introduce yourself, and ask if anyone is interested in meeting up. This can be a great way to find like-minded families.

18. Host Park Play Dates

Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best. Organizing regular park play dates allows kids to interact in an unstructured environment, and it’s an easy way to meet families who live nearby.

17. Attend Public Library Events

Many NYC libraries host events specifically for homeschoolers. For instance, the NYPL Castle Hill location has dedicated homeschooler days, providing a regular space for children to interact with peers while engaging in educational activities.

16. Explore Free Extracurriculars

NYC offers a wealth of free extracurricular activities, from arts and crafts to sports. Parents have particularly praised the free events at Lincoln Center, which are a wonderful opportunity for homeschoolers to meet others while enjoying the city's cultural offerings.

15. Join a Co-op

Homeschool co-ops provide structured socialization opportunities and can be a fantastic way to build lasting friendships. Many parents find co-ops to be invaluable for both academic support and social connections.

14. Organize Museum Meetups

NYC’s museums are not only educational but also a great place for social meetups. Using programs like Culture Pass, which offers free entry to various museums, you can plan regular outings that foster both learning and friendship.

13. Check Out Public Sports Programs

CityParks and NYJTL offer free sports programs throughout the year. Sports are a great way to meet other children, and regular attendance can help forge strong bonds.

12. Attend Community Events

Look for community events such as block parties, fairs, and festivals. These events can be a fun way to meet other homeschooling families in a relaxed setting.

11. Explore Nature Groups

NYC might be a bustling metropolis, but it also has a thriving community of nature-loving homeschoolers. Joining or forming a nature group that meets regularly for hikes or outdoor activities can be a wonderful way to meet other families.

10. Participate in Free Sports Extracurriculars

In addition to public programs, many communities offer free sports extracurriculars. These activities provide both physical exercise and opportunities for kids to connect with others.

9. Start a Playgroup

If you can’t find a playgroup that suits your needs, start your own! Consistency is key—regular meetups help kids get to know each other over time.

8. Attend Monthly Community Events

Some local homeschool organizations, like Brooklyn Apple Academy, offer monthly events where families can connect. These gatherings often include activities that encourage socialization among children. Brooklyn Apple Academy also has a community fund to help families access their regular full-day classes, where many friendships have been fostered.

7. Join a Library Storytime

For younger children, library storytimes are a great way to meet other parents and kids in a low-pressure environment. These events often lead to friendships that extend beyond the library walls.

6. Explore Homeschool Days at Local Attractions

Some NYC attractions, like zoos and museums, offer special homeschool days. Parents have found that zoo memberships, although not part of the Culture Pass program, are worth the investment as they allow for frequent visits, creating opportunities for regular social meetups.

5. Be Persistent in Organizing Events

Organizing events can be exhausting, especially if turnout is low at first. However, persistence pays off. Consistent organizing can eventually lead to a reliable group of friends.

4. Join or Start a Co-op or Playgroup

Co-ops and playgroups provide regular, structured social opportunities for children and their families. Both Brooklyn Apple Academy and Different Directions offer flexible co-op options where parents can choose to join 1, 2, 3, or 4 days a week. These co-ops also offer individual classes, allowing children to engage in specific interests while forming friendships over shared activities. These environments not only provide consistent social interaction but also foster a sense of community among homeschooling families.

3. Attend Regular Classes

Some parents find that attending regular classes—whether they’re academic, artistic, or athletic—helps children build friendships that extend beyond the classroom. Different Directions is one such program where classes are set up with playtime as well, making it easier for kids to socialize.

2. Persevere Through the Challenges

Making friends as a homeschooler can be difficult, especially in a busy city like NYC. It’s important to remember that building a community takes time, and it’s okay to feel frustrated along the way. Perseverance is key.

1. Be Willing to Be the Organizer

The most popular and effective strategy among NYC homeschoolers is to take the initiative and be the organizer. Whether it’s a playgroup, a co-op, or a regular meetup, being the one to organize events ensures that your child has regular social interactions. It might feel like a lot of work, but the payoff in friendships—both for you and your child—can be enormous. For example, chess meetups in Brooklyn and Queens have become a regular social hub for many homeschooling families.

Building a community as a homeschooler in NYC requires effort, patience, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. While it can be challenging, the rewards of finding a supportive network are well worth it. Keep trying, stay persistent, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!