Have you ever gone to your States home school convention? Are you a regular attendee or someone who goes every now and again?

I remember my first convention. It was completely overwhelming. It was huge! So many choices in merchandise, booths and people! It was to much. I knew very little of what I really wanted and knew nothing of curriculum. I actually left not to long after arriving, not to return until 4 years later.

What I have learned when going to these huge events… is to have a plan in place, or at least a purpose in going. You might be thinking, “its a home school convention, isn’t the purpose obvious?” Well not always, and not for someone who has never gone before! *Ü* It is overwhelming and can be a bad place for a woman who loves everything she sees and over buys because it all looks so good! *Ü*

Some things to consider before going to your State or local home school convention might be:

1. Look at your State conventions website. Typically you see who the vendors are before you even go. Having a few vendors purposely in mind when going can help keep you from being completely overwhelmed. Normally you can find maps online of the convention to help you navigate right to them. I cant say or tell you its a cure all, but I know it helps.

2. When visiting booths, make sure you find out if they offer discounts at and after the convention. Sometimes its free shipping up to a week after convention so you are not pressured on the spot. I loves those people! I feel they are truly wanting their customers to have a chance to consider and pray about purchases and not have to do it right on the spot. Especially if its a large purchase.

3. You can also look over the speaker list from the State websites. Again if your convention has a good one. Choose a few you would like to see and hear before hand, and then remember to stay flexible during your time their.

4. Overspending can be a huge problem too. I’m guilty. Browsing the vendor hall and seeing all the “new” goods can make for some over spending temptations. I have a great suggestion for you…last year a friend of mine made a wonderful recommendation… leave the credit card or check book at home. Bring cash for what you want or need to buy and allow yourself a little extra (maybe) for a few of those ” Just have to have and not on my list” purchases.

I did this last year and it helped me out tremendously! I didn’t need a lot and I did allow for some extras, but I dint buy anything last year I didn’t use this year. This may not work for everyone and I understand that. Its finding our way and what works best. I do suggest for you to keep all receipts and ask about return policies before you buy. Especially if you use cash.

Another suggestion for those who don’t want to use cash. Use a prepaid visa card. Many banks allow you to place an amount of money on a visa gift card now days. Just make sure they don’t charge a fee for every transaction, but this can also keep you on budget! Seriously…. Once the card is empty, its empty and you won’t be charged interest if you can’t pay the balance when payment is due.

5. Consider bringing a friend, or someone who has gone before. Its ok to go with a friend who hasn’t gone before too, but its also comforting to go with someone who knows their way a round a bit. They are fun, long and exhausting… but they are worth it.

If you don’t want to travel or your State doesn’t offer a convention close to you, maybe you can consider the upcoming conference from Heart of the matter. Its first annual home school conference! Its online, convenient and the price is right. Here is a link for more information: