I'll fully admit that I feel guilty for my kids' lack of "natural opportunities" for socializing, and it has nothing to do with ps v. hs. 
I grew up in a "real" neighborhood, where we could walk/bike around freely and meet up with friends. I spent my summers in a family campground, where I met my dearest friends and had the most wonderful times.
My kids live in a semi-rural development, where kids are spread far and wide, our speed limits are ignored, we have no sidewalks or streetlights, and run-ins with wild animals are far from unusual. Socializing means planning an "event", whether a regular activity or play date, and activities often mean a 20 minute or more drive.
With 4 (soon to be 5) kids, it's a tall order, time-wise and financially. And I'm a serious introvert!
I push for as much socialization as I can manage, because I want my kids to have the opportunity to meet a wide range of personalities and begin to learn what qualities matter most to them in friendships. And to have fun without tearing my house apart!
I grew up in a "real" neighborhood, where we could walk/bike around freely and meet up with friends. I spent my summers in a family campground, where I met my dearest friends and had the most wonderful times.
My kids live in a semi-rural development, where kids are spread far and wide, our speed limits are ignored, we have no sidewalks or streetlights, and run-ins with wild animals are far from unusual. Socializing means planning an "event", whether a regular activity or play date, and activities often mean a 20 minute or more drive.
With 4 (soon to be 5) kids, it's a tall order, time-wise and financially. And I'm a serious introvert!
I push for as much socialization as I can manage, because I want my kids to have the opportunity to meet a wide range of personalities and begin to learn what qualities matter most to them in friendships. And to have fun without tearing my house apart!
