Hello, welcome to conventions and conferences week! This is perfectly timed for me. I have laundry running, dishwasher going, and bread machine cooking, all in the works for driving to the Midwest Homeschooling Convention tomorrow. Yeah!
So, first I'll talk briefly about the Midwest Homeschooling Convention. I would like to point out that The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine will have a booth. Also Spunky Homeschool will be giving a class on blogging. Amanda Bennett will be giving a class on social media. There are a handful of classes that address special needs. One is Carol Barnier's "If I'm diapering the watermelon than where is the baby?" (great title!!) There are tons of other speakers, workshops and vendors there. To see a full listing of events and speakers Midwest Homeschooling Convention.
The first place I look when I am trying to figure out my convention season possibilities is The Old Schoolhouse®, 2009 Homeschool Conferences and Conventions. You can click on the states around you and pick and chose what is the most helpful. I often look and see if there are any workshops that address special needs. I am happy to say that in the past three years there have been a notable increase in special needs oriented classes.
I have emailed the heads of conventions before, respectfully asking if they would consider hiring someone to talk on special needs topics. Special needs oriented classes can benefit everyone.
The other side of this coin is "How do I afford to go?" I find that with one income and multiple medical bills on top of the monthly budget there isn't a month when things aren't tight. So here are a few tips to trim the budget.
1. Work for the convention. Conventions and conferences are run with the help of an army of volunteers. Usually there is a trade off that if you work, you can come for free or a reduced fee.
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2. Take along a crockpot. If you are staying overnight and have a hotel, set up the crockpot and let it cook while you are at the convention. I would recomend placing it in the bathroom where there is a solid surface and no flammables.
3. Don't forget to take a snack and a drink. If the place allows it, this simple tip can save you paying convention prices on drinks.
Well take care and all the best during this the convention and conference season.
God bless.
Heather lives in West Virginia. She and her husband have been homeschooling their 5 children for 7 years. Due to a genetic disorder their children have multiple special needs. Living life to the fullest for the glory of God is their goal! Visit Heather's at GFCF Mom of Many or Special Needs Homeschooling
