For past couple of weeks we have been discussing choosing homeschool curriculum and attending conventions. As someone who has worked as a vendor for over 20 years I must admit I feel very at home in this space. However, every year when I meet new homeschoolers, and some experienced ones as well, I am reminded that for many, the curriculum hall can be an intimidating place. With a variety of vendors, lots of people, and a certain level of noise it can indeed seem daunting to find what you need. Here are some tips to help you navigate the curriculum hall.
1. Dress for the event. Whatever you wear it should be comfy, especially the shoes. You may do alot of walking and sore feet can be a big distraction.
2. Plan ahead. Think about what you want to see. Check the vendor list to see who might sell what you are looking for. If you really want to see an item call your favourite vendor and ask them to bring the item you are interested in. Most will be happy to do this.
3. Take notes. Use your phone or an old fashioned note pad to jot notes about what you see. Use your phone or other device to take pictures of books that interest you so you don't forget what they look like.
4. Consider pre-ordering. If you are sure that you want to purchase a specific item call the vendor ahead of time. They can have your order ready and set aside for you. You might even want to prepay so you don't have to wait in a long line to make your purchase.
5. Use a seminar slot to spend time in the vendor hall. Between sessions vendor halls get crazy busy. If you need some time to relax and think then perhaps time is better spent wandering through the hall when it is not so busy. Vendors will have more time to answer your questions as well.
6. Attend a Vendor Seminar. Many vendors purchase time to give a short presentation on a specific product. This can be an excellent way to get information about a new product that interests you.
For Newbies
7. Don't rush your purchase. If this is all new to you then use the day to make good contacts for information. If you are not sure what you want to purchase by the end of the day don't buy just to get free shipping. Free shipping is not worth making the wrong decision because you hurried.
8. Beware of giant curriculum bundles. Buying a big bundle can save you money. However, often they contain more materials than you could possibly use in a year. If you buy four big bundles because you have 4 children you may be shocked at the number of boxes that will come to your door.
9. Keep it simple. Your first concerns are math and language arts. Get those subjects settled before you worry about the other things. These are the building blocks of all learning.
10. Pray, pray, pray. God really does care about every area of our lives. He will direct your path.
The Learning House has enjoyed attending homeschool events for over 20 years. We are always happy to bring an order to a conference. If you could call a week ahead that really helps us plan. One thing we have found our customers really appreciate is that we offer a few days of grace to place an order after an event. Since the customer was at the event these orders receive the show specials and free shipping(distance learning excluded) without having to make a decision under pressure. Follow this LINK to see where you can find us this year.
Do you have some special tips you could share about shopping at a homeschool convention? Why not share them?
Unless the Lord Builds the house they labour in vain to build it.
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