Is it Time to Re-think Homeschooling?
How many moms have considered homeschooling? I know many who have, and only a few have followed through. Honestly, I've gone back and forth several times on the subject. There's so much to consider - what's best for our children? For their futures? What's best for our family? Will this bring us together or potentially divide us? Could there be legal repercussions? Is it affordable?
After the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, I can only be one of millions who've re-considered homeschooling. The only way I foresee taking control in this situation is to keep my baby home. Am I being overly paranoid? I don't believe so - and I would hate to think someone could condemn me for being passionate about keeping my daughter safe. For that alone, I could never feel wrong or weird about making an affirmative decision to homeschool.
I cannot control every single aspect of my life or my daughter's. Critics might note here that I'm a control freak, but I would ask them if they had children...Every good parent wants what's best for their children. That's just nature. We cannot control the innate desire to protect our young. This is one reason why homeschooling is so appealing.
How practical is homeschooling? It's actually quite practical, when you consider costs of "traditional" school. Homeschooled children also have better scores on placement exams such as the SAT and ACT, and they often do better in college. The one-on-one attention they receive is invaluable to their education. I think of homeschooling as an investment - you get out what you put in. It's not for everyone. It takes a huge commitment, patience and desire, as well as long and short-term goal setting.
Homeschooling is legal. Period. Each state has different regulations, but as long as you play by the rules, it's fair game. The neighbors always have the right to call Child Protective Services when they notice the kids aren't in school every day, but it might only be because they don't understand they are indeed being homeschooled. The most important thing here is to know your rights. Be educated and seek legal counsel for any concerns.
Honestly, I have a "to each his own" attitude. Each child is different, each family is different, and what's best for my family might not be best for yours. With that said, I suggest we all use our best judgement and gut instincts to do what's best. Neither my opinion nor anyone else's should sway one person's best interests for their child. However, let the facts guide you. Check out your state's homeschooling legislature (a quick Google search will help here) and check out sites like Homeschool.com. Also, see if your area has a homeschool co-op. These groups can be of incredible assistance to the homeschooling newcomer. Most of all, do what you feel is right - let your conscience be your guidance.
As we all mourn for the victims of the massacre in Connecticut, we're all wondering how to prevent this again. What can we change now to keep our children safe tomorrow? There will be increased security standards at schools nationwide, but as so many are asking - will it be enough?
Are you considering homeschooling your children? Do you already homeschool? I'm very curious to hear others' motivation for homeschooling. I suspect our desires to teach our children at home all share common goals: provide better education, make a better financial investment, but above all - protect our children.
Until next time,
Live.Laugh.Love those babies.
After the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, I can only be one of millions who've re-considered homeschooling. The only way I foresee taking control in this situation is to keep my baby home. Am I being overly paranoid? I don't believe so - and I would hate to think someone could condemn me for being passionate about keeping my daughter safe. For that alone, I could never feel wrong or weird about making an affirmative decision to homeschool.
I cannot control every single aspect of my life or my daughter's. Critics might note here that I'm a control freak, but I would ask them if they had children...Every good parent wants what's best for their children. That's just nature. We cannot control the innate desire to protect our young. This is one reason why homeschooling is so appealing.
How practical is homeschooling? It's actually quite practical, when you consider costs of "traditional" school. Homeschooled children also have better scores on placement exams such as the SAT and ACT, and they often do better in college. The one-on-one attention they receive is invaluable to their education. I think of homeschooling as an investment - you get out what you put in. It's not for everyone. It takes a huge commitment, patience and desire, as well as long and short-term goal setting.
Homeschooling is legal. Period. Each state has different regulations, but as long as you play by the rules, it's fair game. The neighbors always have the right to call Child Protective Services when they notice the kids aren't in school every day, but it might only be because they don't understand they are indeed being homeschooled. The most important thing here is to know your rights. Be educated and seek legal counsel for any concerns.
Honestly, I have a "to each his own" attitude. Each child is different, each family is different, and what's best for my family might not be best for yours. With that said, I suggest we all use our best judgement and gut instincts to do what's best. Neither my opinion nor anyone else's should sway one person's best interests for their child. However, let the facts guide you. Check out your state's homeschooling legislature (a quick Google search will help here) and check out sites like Homeschool.com. Also, see if your area has a homeschool co-op. These groups can be of incredible assistance to the homeschooling newcomer. Most of all, do what you feel is right - let your conscience be your guidance.
As we all mourn for the victims of the massacre in Connecticut, we're all wondering how to prevent this again. What can we change now to keep our children safe tomorrow? There will be increased security standards at schools nationwide, but as so many are asking - will it be enough?
Are you considering homeschooling your children? Do you already homeschool? I'm very curious to hear others' motivation for homeschooling. I suspect our desires to teach our children at home all share common goals: provide better education, make a better financial investment, but above all - protect our children.
Until next time,
Live.Laugh.Love those babies.