[elpatokamo]

Our two kids are homeschooled and are generally equally excited to play with all their friends (some homeschooled, some in regular public school, some in private school).

I have yet to see or hear any "othering" of their friends. In fact, I'd say the breadth of different social situations they are exposed to makes the "othering" less likely.

[nprateem]

Ever thought it might be the other way round?

I'd send my kids private, but no way would I isolate them with home schooling. You're meant to do that on evenings and weekends anyway.

[arkey]

Isolation is not a requirement in home schooling. It can happen? Yes, it's a risk.

Can the opposite happen? Yes, I've seen it personally. My home schooled nephews know and are known by everyone in their village and surroundings. Sometimes I feel at 6 and 8 years old they have more diverse professional connections and acquaintances than I have right now.

[elpatokamo]

Yeah, the whole "maladjusted home school kid" is a thing we were cognizant of when making this decision.

To your second point: I think the best predictor of success in any education setting is intentionality and involvement from the parents. That said, with home school you get nights and weekends AND days to spend in whatever way is most optimal for your kids.