LEAVE HOMESCHOOL FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL?

Dear Jellybean,

I have a problum! I just moved to new york because my dad is in the army. I have no friends!Part of it is because I'm homeschooled.The other part is because i'm extreamly shy! Today my mom asked me if i wanted to go to public school here.I said no,but i've been really thinking about going back. But i'm too shy and scared to go to this public school here.It really looks like a high school because its so big but its really a middle school. I'm afraid to go to middle school because it'd be my first time to go to middle school. Plus,i wanna have a friend before i go to middle school but i don't have any here. I do try to make friends but most of the people i say hi to just look at me like i'm weird,because i am a little over weight. should i go to public school or just stay homeschooled? I'd really appreciate it if u'd answer my letter.Because this is a ard decision for me.
-Advice needed

Dear Advice needed,

That is a big decision, and one you will ultimately have to make yourself. You'll have to think about whether you enjoy the quality of education you're getting at home, and whether your temptation to go to a "real" school is motivated by educational reasons, friendship reasons, or a bit of both. It's definitely easier to meet tons of people - and find a few friends among them - when you're going to a big school every day that's full of other kids your age. Of course, if you stay super-shy when you go to school, you could end up as lonely as you feel at home.

Making friends in your new city - and possibly in your new school, if you decide to leave the comfort of homeschooling for public school - will take some effort. If you choose to go to school, the plus is that there are usually lots of clubs, associations and sports teams that you can join. These are some of the best places to meet lifelong friends who share the same interests as you. These might become your new, closest friends. And you will feel included... and have lots of interesting activities in your life.

If you decide to stick with homeschooling, you can still join clubs and get involved in groups where you can meet new friends to hang out with. Ask your mom to take you to the local YMCA and help you to find activities, lessons and clubs for kids. From swimming to scrapbooking to acting classes, your local community centre is sure to have something that interests you.

Also also ask your mom to check into whether there is a Homeschooling Association in your city. If so, they may provide opportunities for homeschooled kids to get together socially.

Remember, wherever you go and whatever you do, work on getting over your shyness. The more outgoing you become, the more friends you will draw into your life. Check out my article on shyness for tips on how to get started: Conquer Your Shyness.