Musings on Homeschool
Ask my kids. They’ll tell you that I’m passionate about education. I graduated from college with a bachelor’s degree and Secondary Ed teaching certificate. I chose to be a stay-at-home mom and we’ve been fortunate enough to support our household with my husband’s income. Nonetheless, like you, I have been vested in finding the best education for my kids.
We have had various education experiences: joy school co-ops, preschool, private school, traditional school, and homeschool. Currently, we home school. I know. I know what you’re thinking. I used to have misconceptions of homeschool families too (socially awkward, ultra-religious fanatics, with little to no actual schooling?).
A recent report in Education News states that, since 1999, the number of children who are homeschooled has increased by 75%! Keep your stereotypes if you must. But as homeschooling has become increasingly popular, common myths have been discredited. Homeschooled children are proving to be high achieving, college prepared, and socially engaged with peers.
My reasons for homeschooling are numerous. But, I can assure you that none of them include promoting crazy, extreme religious or political agendas (judgyeyes). I home school because I get to spend the best hours of the day with my kids (Aww…no really, it’s da best!). I love to teach & reinforce our own values. I love the flexibility of our schedule. I like to promote practical life skills (Hehe. The kids love this one.) And the teacher in me loves to bring the subjects alive with hands on experience and endless field trips.
It's awesome to have choices in education. Homeschool isn't easy. Homeschool isn't a traditional path. Believe me, we've felt the brunt of judgement. But as such, it has provided us opportunities to think outside the box and be less quick to judge those who choose an unconventional approach.
I have my supporters (most importantly, my husband and kids). I have those that quietly guard their real feelings for our choice. And there’s always the naysayers. But for right now it works for us. My sanity levels and my children’s needs may not allow for homeschool forever, so we’re open to changing it up if needs be. We’re cool like that.
