Resources

SHG Resource Directory

The SHG Resource Directory is a selective, but extensive list of homeschooling groups, programs, resources, and activities in the Greater Seattle metro area that are targeted toward or useful to homeschoolers. The list is managed by an SHG volunteer and updated periodically. The Seattle area offers countless opportunities for homeschoolers. This page provides an overview of some of the types of resources available to homeschooling families in Seattle and surrounding areas. 

For specific listings in each category, download the resource directory at the link above, or any of the several links on this page. 

Email shgresourcedirectory@gmail.com with any suggested edits or additions. The directory is free and available to all.

Cooperative Groups (Co-ops)

These groups can be very small, informal, and low-cost or even free (e.g., I’ll teach your kids science, if you teach my kids history) or they can be large with dedicated spaces and hired specialist teachers. Homeschool co-ops generally offer, not only classes, but also social communities with their own park days and events. SHG parents have created two quasi-cooperative homeschool communities that offer classes and social gatherings at Seattle community centers. Check out Loyal Heights Homeschool and Tall Mountain Homeschool for more information. For a list of other local co-ops, please refer to the SHG Resource Directory.

Parent Partnership Programs (PPP) & Alternative Learning Experiences (ALE)

As homeschooling increased in popularity, public schools responded by creating alternative homeschooling programs within the school system. These PPP/ALEs function, in many ways, like community cooperatives, but with a few important differences. In most cases, students enrolled in a PPP/ALE are not legally considered homeschoolers under Washington State’s Home-Based Instruction laws. They do not file Declaration of Intent forms and the parent’s educational program is overseen by a school district employee.  For a list of local-area PPP/ALEs, please refer to the SHG Resource Directory.

Enrichment Programs

Whether you are unschooling or enrolled full-time in a Parent Partnership Program, you may be interested in local classes or part-time programs. Many businesses and individuals around Seattle offer classes or lessons that are either specifically for homeschoolers or are popular among homeschooling families. Some classes can replace or supplement your home instruction in academic subjects like math, science, or language arts. Others provide arts instruction and performance opportunities for music, dance, drama, or circus. There are many nature and wilderness programs in the Seattle area. And there is a wide variety of sports and physical education classes and clubs. For an extensive list of alternative schools and enrichment activities, please refer to the SHG Resource Directory.

Field Trips

Many options exist for local museum, outdoor, and performance field trips. By organizing group trips, homeschoolers can often receive discount admission prices or access to school programs that are otherwise unavailable to individuals. Some local museums and venues have homeschool days or educational programs available to homeschoolers. Check out our Field Trips page for tips on how to organize a field trip. For a list of field trip ideas, please refer to the SHG Resource Directory.

Discounts

As a homeschooler you are often eligible to receive educational discounts from local retailers. Requirements to receive these discounts vary by retailer (and sometimes by employee). Some retailers will want to see your Declaration of Intent. For others, simply telling them that you are a homeschooler (or educator) is sufficient. For many it can be helpful to show a student or educator ID card. You can create these on your own or use a service that provides ID cards to homeschoolers. Homeschool Buyers Club offers a free printable ID card, or they offer plastic cards for a fee. For a list of local retailers offering educational discounts, please refer to the SHG Resource Directory.