2009 AHEA Convention

Sometimes, as homeschooling parents, we feel pretty isolated and alone. Closing the doors on the rest of the world while we do our little school thing at home is pretty "different" from the "norm" after all. So it's always nice to meet with other homeschoolers from time to time and we always look forward to the AHEA convention.

Over 1000 Homeschool Paricipants Gather for AHEA Convention
The AHEA (Alberta Home Education Association) convention was held in Red Deer, April 17 and 18. What a great event! There were over 1000 parents present - wonderful to see so many dads and grandparents in attendance!

Keynote Address a Show Stopper
The keynote speaker was Kevin Swanson, a home educated homeschool activitist. Kevin's keynote address was both hysterically funny and encouraging at the same time. After warming us up with his hilarious "I can't do this anymore" antics, he confirmed what most of us already know: homeschooling is no easy task. It's a big responsibility and has its share of frustrations for both parents and kids. But in the end, committed homeschoolers know intuitively that it's still the best thing for our kids.

Why We Do What We Do
Kevin listed all the reasons why home educated kids have an advantage over schooled children and backed up his points with research. As it turns out, the relationship we develop with our children is critical to their academic success (not to mention social/emotional success, as well).
Simply put, kids who stay home with their parents during the formative years do better in life. Period.

Support For Homeschoolers
It was great to hear about the research that bears this out. It was also terrifically encouraging to hear that others go through the same frustrations and difficulties that we do. It's nice to know we're not alone.