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16 Hudson Valley Parent n January 2019 with others from their community. Holly of Staatsburg recalls a field trip to the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook. "Kids of all ages came together to learn at whatever level they were ready for. That's the beauty of homeschooling." The homeschool community in the Hudson Valley is vast, with families happily getting together for socialization and enrichment. Many co-ops comprised of local families meet weekly and offer classes in various topics ranging from creative writing to science to knitting. There are dances, robotics leagues, even philosophical gatherings organized specifically for the homeschooling community. Robert, and his wife Aimee, of Newburgh saw a need for deeper connections and involvement for homeschooled families and began an organization called Classical Conversations in the Hudson Valley. He explains, "My wife and I direct a homeschool community where other homeschoolers get together and we By STEPHANIE SANDLER A s a mom who schooled my own kids for six years, I was asked the gamut of inquiries, ranging from what our schedule looked like to my qualifications as an instructor. My kids were asked, "Why aren't you in school today?" by more strangers than I could count. Whether you wonder why your neighbor's kids are learning in their backyard, or you're considering it for your family, sit back and learn the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about homeschooling. 1: How do your kids get socialized? Homeschooled kids are out and about in the community constantly. It might be at a co-op class with other students, a family trip to the museum, a field trip with fellow kids, or just interacting with store clerks, the local veterinarian or a bank teller. Homeschooled kids join town sports, take music and dance lessons, art classes, and various activities support them in their needs. We wanted support but no one else was doing it in our area, so we decided to host it." 2: How do you know what to teach? In New York State, parents are legally required to correspond with their district, and submit written intent to homeschool, provide an outline for what they plan to teach, and supply a report each quarter stating what material has been covered and how the student is performing. State standards of learning are available online and parents often refer to these, as well as many instructional guides such as the beloved series, "What your X-grader needs to know." Online Facebook groups such as Hudson Valley Homeschoolers offer an opportunity for parents to share resources, ask questions and receive support as they design their curricula. Homeschooling allows kids to follow their academic passions because lessons are tailored to their own 6 questions homeschool families are sick of answering The secret life of homeschoolers Holly of Staatsburg took her son's love of history to a whole new level. He was able to learn, have fun and have an unforgettable experience on a restored ship from 1812.