Like I've said before, the decison to homeschool your children is a very personal one. Everyone needs to do their own research, look into their state's laws, and most importantly consider what's best for their children.
Here are my personal reasons for homeschooling my own child:
1) She gets a better education at home - I've witnessed first hand how schools are lowering their standards to cater to low achieving students; public schools are way too concerned with standardized test scores; public schools stifle kids imagination; kids are taught to blindly accept what they are being taught, instead of questioning and exploring the subjects
2) We work at her pace, which usually is faster than a public school - I noticed that a lot of time spent at school is wasted. Kids usually spend about 6 hours at school, at home, we can get the work done in half the time.
3) Learning is personalized - Homeschooled kids can explore their interests much more freely. They can delve deeper into subjects they are interested in, instead of just superficially as in school.
4) Flexibility - I love being able to make our own schedule according to the day. Sometimes we want to sleep in and we will start school late, then we'll just work a little longer too. If it's a nice day we will do a lesson in the park or library.
5) I get to spend more time with my child - This was a big one for me. We have only so much time before our kids grow up and go live their own lives. I want to spend as much time with my kids right now as I can.
I'm sure there are almost as many reasons for homeschooling as there are people actually doing it. These are just my reasons. It was with these five points in mind, that I decided homeschooling was the best choice for us right now.
I hope I can help other moms out there who are considering the homeschooling option. I'll be happy to answer any questions as best as I can. I'd love to hear from other moms.
What are your reasons for homeschooling?
Wow! It is so great reading your story. I was raised like your oldest child and now I am starting the journey of homeschooling my daughter who sounds like your youngest. You might enjoy reading part of my blog www.FromTeacher2Mommy.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your story...I'll be following you!
Hi Rachael,
ReplyDeleteGood luck on your journey of homeschooling your daughter. It will be challenging at times but very worth it.
On my way over to check out your blog!
I have a 4 year old son who will be turning 5 next July....so I need to make a decision quickly. I don't feel like public education is the best thing for him, seeing as it is declining. And I am a certified middle school band teacher saying this...who taught in public schools. :/ I am very interested to know more about home schooling....what is the cost involved, and is it something that I can actually do? Somehow I don't feel qualified, but I'm sure especially for the beginning years I am more than qualified to do the job. Any advice, books, or resources you could point me towards would be very helpful. Thanks! Beth
ReplyDeleteHi Beth,
DeleteI did a lot of research. First, I think you need to find out what your state's requirements are. I also contacted my school district and they shared their curriculum with me. That was important for me because if I ever decide to put her back in school, she won't be lacking anything. There are tons of curriculum options and online schools. You could wind up spending a small fortune. Since I can't afford that, and I have experience teaching, I am doing it all on my own. I make lesson plans, I use the library a lot, and I come up with my own worksheets and other materials. I do spend some money on books and materials, especially printer paper and ink. I also take my daughter to a weekly art class, gymnastics or ballet depending on the season. I have a page on my blog that lists my favorite free resources, you can take a look at that for starters. Since my daughter is 7 and in 2nd grade, I ask for her input on what she'd like to learn in social studies and science and I make lesson plans accordingly. I also let her choose level appropriate books for independent reading. If you want more information you can email me. I'll answer any questions you have as best I can.
Thank you so much...I may be contacting you. ;)
Deletei am sooo glad i came across your blog!!
ReplyDeleteHi Jennifer, I'm so glad you're here.
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