What to Ask at a Homeschool Resource Fair: A Conversation Guide for Parents
Walking into your first homeschool resource fair can feel exciting—and maybe a little intimidating. You might wonder if you're asking the right questions, talking to the right people, or doing enough to prepare your family for homeschooling.
The good news? You don't need to have it all figured out before you come. That's why we're hosting the Homeschool Resource Fair on May 16 in Walla Walla—to give you space to learn, connect, and build your confidence one conversation at a time.
Whether you're brand new to homeschooling or just looking for fresh ideas, this guide will help you start the conversations that matter most. Think of it as a simple tool to help you maximize your time at the fair.
Why Questions Are Your Best Homeschooling Tool
There's a lot of information out there about homeschooling. You could spend weeks researching curriculum options, local programs, teaching methods, and state requirements—and still feel overwhelmed.
However, the most valuable insights often come through conversation. You get information and context when you ask a real person how something worked for them.
The families and speakers at the Homeschool Resource Fair live and homeschool right here in the Walla Walla Valley. They know what's available locally, have wrestled with the same questions, and are showing up because they want to help.
You don't need to bring a script—just your curiosity.
What to Ask Other Homeschool Parents
Meeting other families is one of the most meaningful parts of a homeschool fair. These might be parents who've been at it for years or someone who just pulled their child out of school this spring. Each conversation is a chance to learn something new.
Try asking questions like:
What helped you feel confident in your first year?
What's something you tried that didn't work—and what did you do next?
How do you balance homeschooling with work or younger kids?
How did you choose a curriculum?
What does a typical homeschool day look like for you?
These questions open the door to real, unfiltered stories—not polished advice or perfect routines. They remind you that homeschooling doesn't look the same for everyone, and that's okay.
What to Ask Vendors and Local Organizations
The vendor space at the Homeschool Resource Fair is filled with businesses, co-ops, and service providers passionate about helping homeschool families thrive. They're not just there to sell—they're there to serve.
Questions to ask at vendor tables:
How does your program support homeschoolers?
Is this best for independent learners or parent-led instruction?
What ages is this designed for?
How does this work with different learning styles or special needs?
Do you offer any samples or local references?
Asking these questions will help you determine whether a resource fits your family's needs, schedule, and budget.
What to Ask During Breakout Sessions
Breakout sessions are a key feature of the Homeschool Resource Fair. They offer targeted assistance on subjects like curriculum development, planning for high school, and transitioning from homeschool to other life stages. You are welcome to participate in one or more sessions, and please don't hesitate to ask additional questions or contact the speaker afterwards.
Consider asking:
How would you adapt this advice for multiple kids?
What does this look like in a real week at home?
What challenges did you face when you tried this?
What's one small step I can take to get started?
What would you do differently if you could return to your first year?
Most of our speakers are parents and educators who want to share what they've learned—successes and mistakes. Your questions help others in the room, too.
Tips to Get the Most Out of the Day
It's not about seeing every vendor or attending every session. The best way to experience the fair is to be present, pace yourself, and engage in the moments that matter most to you.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down ideas and names.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. This is a relaxed, come-as-you-are event.
Leave space in your day to explore the used book sale and curriculum "petting zoo."
Don't be afraid to sit down, take a breather, or step outside if you feel overwhelmed.
There's no wrong way to experience the fair. Let the day unfold in a way that feels good for your family.
You Don't Have to Know Everything—Just Be Willing to Ask
If you've ever felt like you're the only one trying to figure this out, you're not alone. Homeschooling can sometimes feel isolating, especially when your plans aren't working or your confidence starts to slip.
But here's the truth: the families you'll meet at the Homeschool Resource Fair have asked the same questions. They've made changes, tried new approaches, and found encouragement in the community. You can, too.
When you show up with a question—whether it's about curriculum, local resources, or "How do you do this?"—you're already taking the next right step.
Join Us at the Walla Walla Homeschool Resource Fair
The Homeschool Resource Fair will be held on Friday, May 16, from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM at Amazing Grace Church in Walla Walla.
This free, family-friendly event is open to anyone considering or currently homeschooling in the Walla Walla Valley. Come with your questions. Come with your uncertainty. Come as you are.
We'll be here—and we'd love to meet you.
For full event details and the session lineup, visit:
Need help getting connected before the fair? Reach out anytime at hello@homeschoolingwallawalla.com.