Whether you are just starting your journey of homeschooling, or you have been doing it for some time, probably the number one question you get asked is about socialization: How will the kids be properly socialized if they are learning at home rather than in a school environment? It's an understandable concern. After all, most of us spent our childhoods in more traditional educational settings, attending brick and mortar schools, surrounded by other kids daily, and where social interaction was an essential part of our educational experience. How can this be simulated if children are being taught at home?

       While socialization certainly looks different for homeschooled kids, most parents will tell you that their kids who learn at home are doing just fine in socialization. Why? It’s partly because homeschooling usually doesn’t take place exclusively at home, and homeschoolers actually interact frequently with others. It’s also because homeschool parents usually make an effort to bring socializing into the mix, with positive results.

      Research about homeschoolers and socialization is, unfortunately, not abundant at this time. However, the available research does point to mostly positive outcomes when it comes to socialization and homeschooled children. For example, a systematic review of the available research on homeschooling found that not only do homeschoolers fare very well academically, but they also appear to be well adjusted and well socialized. Out of fifteen available studies that look at socialization of home-educated kids, thirteen of them showed “clearly positive outcomes for the homeschooled children compared to those in conventional schools.” Two studies showed an even more positive outcome for homeschooled children than conventionally educated children. Research shows that homeschooled kids are less likely to engage in risky behavior such as alcohol consumption. An older study in 1992 also found that homeschooled kids had fewer behavioral problems than their conventionally schooled counterparts.

       What makes for a good seat on an airplane? Some say the window view,__26__ others believe legroom is the most important and will even pay substantially more for a few__27__ inches of space. Airlines know that comfort is your top __28__ , but a growing number of them are opting for less comfortable, cost-effective seats, including some without the reclining option altogether. Many travelers aren’t __29__ the change, but some aviation experts say the move could benefit flight attendants who often play schoolyard monitor over disputes__30__ seat reclining etiquette.