I think it depends on where you are and how you choose to approach it. I know several families here who home school. They are part of a home school group in their areas. They network with other families for lots of field trips and social time. I haven't found their children to be any less well socialized than the public school kids and in general a lot more mannerly and well behaved. Its a huge commitment, but I can't say I wouldn't do it considering the state of public schools.