Anyone here HERI members? I just sent my registration info/cost and I plan to attend the convention at the end of June. I'm hoping for some encouragment, and I'm looking forward to looking through the curriculums in person. I have a feeling it will be a bit overwhelming. Any tips? Do you go to homeschool conventions?
Yes, it IS overwhelming!!! The Vendor's Hall literally left me speechless the first time, and I wandered aimlessly around, mouth open, just staring at everything, lol! If they open up the Vendor Hall the night before, GO!!! Spend the first hour just walking through. Take a notebook, and write down things you are interested in, the price, and where you saw it. (You might find it cheaper elsewhere!) If possible, go with a list of specific items you want to buy. If there's a place specifically you want to go (like Rainbow Resources), you might want to head there first.
Bring a water bottle or two. Bring your Rainbow Resource catalog (I know it's huge but then you'll know if you can get stuff cheaper there or ordering). Bring one of those rolling suitcases. That might sound crazy. It doesn't have to be massive, but bring one that's a nice size (it can hold your RR catalog, your water, and any stuff you buy). When I went to conventions years ago (we've moved now so there aren't any near me) that's one thing a lot of people brought. It's so much more handy to pull behind you then lug a big bag on your shoulder.
Agreed, the first time you go to one is definitely overwhelming. If it's a two day convention, and you're going both days. LEAVE YOUR CHECK BOOK AT HOME THE FIRST DAY!!!! That way you don't impulse buy something you regret before days' end! LOL If you're only going one day, leave your checkbook in the car until after you eat lunch. That way, you really do have a few moments to pause. I recommend this, because when my husband and I went to our first homeschool convention, we walked into vendor hall, and the very first thing we saw was the Nest Family Videos booth. The gentleman convinced us to purchase the full Old & New Testament Video & workbook set. While we've used it many times over the years, and my kids did love the videos. We dropped quite a huge chunk of change that first 5 minutes! LOL Also, if they have a used book sale, bring a list of books that you need and check there FIRST. Hope this helps! And have fun!!!!!
I'll take all that advice I already have a rolling suitcase to bring. It is a two day event. I'm so glad you told me to go both days because I was only planning on going the one. My ticket is per family and even includes one set of grandparents so I think my parents will happily go (they are very supportive and want to be involved... my dad especially looks forward to helping with math). I also just sent a request for a Rainbow Resource catalog... This is my first time hearing of it. Thanks so much!
Oh my....that's where I buy most of my stuff. I for one would love to see your face when your Rainbow Resource catalog arrives. :lol: Umm...it's over 2" thick. You will definitely need to have that rolling suitcase. :lol: Have fun!!
You don't know about Rainbow Resources? Oh, my, Ladies, we've let her down ! I keep my catalog right next to my computer, to compare when I buy things used.
I usually pick up my RR catalog at convention. I hit that booth at least 3x a day when I am there. It is dangerous (and fun). We normally plan out which speakers we want to see when we get there. I try not to buy anything on my first sweep through the vendor hall. I usually price things out and see what the variety is.
