Homeschool Conventions: FAQs & Must-Know Tips covers the most commonly asked questions about homeschool conventions along with advice for how to get the most out of your experience.

General Information

  • What is a homeschool convention? A homeschool convention is a mix of continuing education for the home educator, a support group, and the best homeschool bookstore around all contained under one roof. Conventions allow us to reap the benefit of other people’s experience and expertise, gleaning valuable insights into ways we can improve our homeschooling. The speakers at these conventions range from fellow home educators to experts in all sorts of fields.
  • Are these events only for experienced homeschoolers, or can beginners attend? No matter where you are in your homeschooling journey, a homeschool convention is for you!
  • How can I find a homeschool convention? Most state homeschooling organizations post upcoming homeschool conventions on their websites. The Homeschool Mom website has an extensive listing of homeschool conventions in just about every state so you can find one that suits you.
  • Other organizations offering homeschool conventions are:
  • Great Homeschool Conventions – They hold events in multiple states. Their website says you can expect, “Dozens of Speakers, Discounted Hotels, 100s of Exhibitors, Special Events, Optional Children’s Conference.”
  • Teach Them Diligently – A Christian homeschool convention series hosting conventions in Ohio, Tennessee, and Missouri in 2025.
  • Texas Homeschool Expo hosts two conventions in Texas. Their website says, “The Texas Homeschool Expo is an annual resource fair for current and prospective home educators. It offers a unique opportunity to explore dozens of educational curricula, resources, programs, and service providers in person, connect with local organizations, and attend workshop sessions led by professionals and homeschool veterans. This inclusive event is not aligned with any religious, political, or governmental entity, and is open to all homeschooling styles and philosophies.”
  • When are homeschool conventions held? The homeschool convention season usually begins in March and goes through July of each year.

Speakers & Workshops

  • Who are the keynote speakers? Keynote speakers are usually giants in the homeschooling world or well-known published authors.
  • What topics will be covered in the workshops? Workshops cover a variety of topics from how to teach particular subjects, education on particular homeschooling methods, to more general homeschooling advice.
  • Will there be sessions on homeschooling special needs or ADHD? The larger conferences usually have sessions covering how to homeschool children with special needs.

Curriculum & Vendors

  • Will I be able to buy curriculum at a discount? Many curriculum suppliers offer discounts if you purchase at the convention.
  • Can I talk to curriculum authors or publishers? Yes, many of the authors of curriculum and other materials are onsite at a convention.
  • Are there used curriculum sales or swaps? Some locally run conventions do have used curriculum for sale.

Kids & Family

  • Can I bring my kids? Children are welcome at homeschool conferences and many offer a track for children and teens so they have their own activities to keep them occupied while you attend workshops.
  • Will there be any special needs-friendly accommodations? To be sure about what is offered, email or call the conference you want to attend before registering.

Practical Considerations

  • What should I bring to a homeschool convention? Bring a sweater or jacket, chargers for your devices, some cash, a notebook and pens, and bags or a folding cart with you. You don’t want to lose precious time running back and forth to your car during the convention.
  • Are there food vendors or should I bring my own meals? There are food vendors and food boxes available for purchase at most conferences. Because of this, it’s usually not permitted to bring your food into the conference. Check with the conference before registering.
  • How do I make the most of my time at a convention?
  • Look at the rules and regulations pertaining to the convention before you arrive. Some convention halls don’t allow wagons or wheeled luggage in the curriculum hall. Knowing what to expect before you arrive will make your convention experience a pleasant one.
  • Use the convention guide to plan which speakers to hear, know where they will be speaking, and what the curriculum hall hours are.
  • Research curriculum prices and make a list of what you are interested in purchasing to take with you to the convention.
  • What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by all the options? If this is going to be your first homeschool conference, it’s very helpful to go with a veteran homeschooler. They can offer valuable guidance, support, and insight.

Whether this is your first homeschool convention or your twenty-first, it’s our hope that the information in Homeschool Conventions: FAQs & Must-Know Tips will make your experience the best it can be. We’re wishing you all the best! Happy Homeschooling!