Should We Homeschool? Reasons to Homeschool.

Should we homeschool? My husband and I asked ourselves that question so many times in the months leading up to taking our child out of school.

We knew nothing about homeschooling, but it was very clear that school wasn’t working out for our family. We needed an alternative and we needed it fast, nobody was happy with the conventional education system.

Should We Homeschool?

I had no knowledgeable support and no one to talk to during the decision-making period. It was only later that I found amazing online contacts in the homeschooling community and found my local homeschooling group.

If you are in the decision-making process, just stay with me a while, I want to give you a nudge and a confidence boost to help you make your decision.

10 Reasons to Homeschool

1. You will have unlimited time with your children. They grow up so fast, make the most of that time and enjoy being a family. Did you have kids to hand them over at 4 years old and spend quality time with them on weekends only? No, didn’t think so.

After school they will be tired, have homework and you will be rushing around washing, cooking and getting ready for the next school day. You won’t be seeing each other at your best.

If you’re asking yourself “Should we Homeschool?” keep this one firmly in your mind. It’s a great reason in itself.

2. You can keep your children safe and secure in a loving environment and keep them free, mentally and physically. Their physical and emotional needs will be met, you will know if they are eating properly and if they are stressed or unhappy. If they aren’t feeling so great they can take a day off with no repercussions, missed work, or drama. If they get interested in a topic they can stay up all night and take it as far as they like. You can do “school” anywhere, get outside, go to the beach, take a trip, you’re not confined to a particular room at particular times.  A homeschool day looks very different to a school day. Their lives won’t be regimented and neither will yours.

3. They will get a great education because you, more than anyone else in the world want them to get a great education. There are many different ways to ensure that the education happens. Books, online courses, videos and TV, classes in the real world, travel, day trips, work experience and hobbies. You will find the way that best suits you and your child’s individual needs.

4. There is plenty of support out there, through homeschooling groups and online communities. You will find all the help you need. We’re a nice bunch and love to help out new homeschoolers. There are get-togethers, camps and conferences close to home and all over the world.

5. Homeschooled kids do not turn out weird or odd. I really don’t know where that idea comes from. All of the homeschooled kids I’ve met have been amazing and represent a cross-section of the junior community. Some are super cool, some have amazing talents, some are gifted, some are not. You could never spot a homeschooled “type”.

6. I know a lot of ex-teachers who homeschool. Far more than you would expect. They have seen the system and don’t want their own children to be a part of it. That speaks volumes.

7. Your homeschooled children will have friends, of course they will! You’re not going to lock them in the house are you? They’ll play in the places the school kids play and go to the same clubs and sports events. They will still have neighbours and other random kids they meet when they are out and about. Homeschooled kids often make friends online. I have friends online, good ones. We’ve never met but they are invaluable to me. It can be the same for children.

8. Homeschooling is not a huge amount of work. Many people actually find homeschooling much easier than the daily battle with the school run, lunches and homework. We do not spend all of our time preparing lessons and researching. Homeschooling isn’t like school at all, it’s far more free and easy. Effort is required, obviously, things get busy at our house when my reports are due and you do have to read up on curriculums but it’s not a daily thing. You will find your groove.

9. Homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive. You don’t have to buy a lot of expensive books. Use the library. Any information you could possibly need is online. Pre-bought  “boxed” curriculums are unnecessary, you can write your own. It’s lovely to be able to buy the kids cool equipment, telescopes, electronics sets, fancy chemistry equipment, but you don’t have to, sometimes you can loan or hire equipment. I like to scour the internet looking for bargains, some people have good luck with charity shops. Basic English and maths workbooks are available in supermarkets for a few dollars or you can print your own worksheets from the hundreds of free educational resource sites. You may find you even save money. School uniforms, compulsory equipment, packed lunches and petrol costs add up.

10. Parents homeschool because they care about their children’s education. We’re not a bunch of drop-outs, weirdos and religious nuts, we’re just like you. At one point or other we have all asked ourselves “Should we homeschool?’ We have thought deeply about the question and all come to the same conclusion. We love our kids and want the best for them. We’re willing to sacrifice and work hard to give our kids a wonderful childhood and a great education. You’ll feel totally at home if you join us.

Should we homeschool appeared first on Homeschool Group Hug.