My brother and I were homeschooled for a couple years and it messed us up for like 3-5 years after. I've worked with people who were homeschooled until college and they are very weird, socially inept, and occasionally inappropriate.
I'd argue that what serves one best in life is learning to function at an adult level with other adults. Most homeschoolers I've known spent substantial amounts of time in adult company every day. Mixed-age peer groups (as seen in homeschool co-ops) can also create a natural dynamic and expectation for the student to both be a mentor and be mentored (relationship skills one should know how to cultivate as an adult).
Conforming as an 11 year old to the culture and social behaviors created by other 11 year olds in a space where a few overstretched adults struggle mightily (if with good intentions) to create a positive environment is...not an optimal use of that child's time.
Not that most homeschoolers aren't also hanging out with same-aged peers too. Much time is saved by not having the administrative overhead of a school. Lots of homeschoolers hang out with their friends all the time like any other kids do. Having buddies over and gaming until 3am is just as fun either way.
Fully acknowledging that I'm deep in anecdotal territory here and that these are sample sizes where all outcomes will be well-represented.
I loved being homeschooled for the freedom and lifestyle benefits.
Also your website (from your profile) is legit.
I was also homeschooled (and loved it) so my perspective does have a certain tint to it. So much of this comes down to the particular child and parent, which is of course the point. :)
Feel free to reach out if you need another resource or simply to bounce ideas.
I also know of people who went to public school their whole life and are weird, socially inept, and occasionally inappropriate.
Again, I'm very sorry you've met some people who were weird and happened to homeschool, but it's unfair to pass judgement on a large group of people, just because you met a few who didn't fit your own standards for normalcy.
I've met hundreds of articulate, friendly, intelligent and confident homeschooling families.
I think the myth that homeschooling leads to lack of socialization is largely untrue and a treat to those families who want to create an education that honors their child's unique academic AND social needs.
I could write a lot more on this and I have, in this blog, if you're curious to learn about the real lives of highly social homeschoolers. https://joinmodulo.substack.com/p/but-what-about-socializati...