The Truth about Homeschooling- Part I

For many parents the thought of homeschooling brings up images of stay-at-home moms who dress like they live in the 1800’s, who want to keep their kids sheltered in their home or who homeschool simply because they want to provide a religious education for their kids. And this stereotype can often dissuade parents from making the decision to homeschool. But visit a local homeschool group and these images will quickly disappear. We know there are a lot of misconceptions and half-truths burying the actual truth about homeschooling. If you’ve considered bringing your kids home for school and are afraid, let us help you understand and see the truth about homeschooling and how it just might be the best decision you’ve ever made.

The reality is that homeschoolers today are as varied as the cultures and individuals that make up our United States. Homeschooling parents include all nationalities as well as doctors, lawyers, teachers, technologists, engineers, stay at home moms, dads, grandparents, atheists, Christians, Mormons, Muslims, libertarians, republicans, democrats. In fact, it is safe to say that homeschooling parents today have only one guaranteed thing in common: they are passionate about their kids, education, and the quality of their family life.

So what are the other fears that keep parents from making the decision to homeschool?

• • People will stereotype me
  • My family will think I am crazy
  • I can’t homeschool well
  • What if the year is an academic failure?
  • Will my kids be willing to let me be their teacher?

Homeschooling is currently the fastest growing educational trend in the United States. Why are so many families making the decision to make this their education of choice? We’re taking on the top 10 homeschooling myths to uncover the real truth about homeschooling.

The Truth About Homeschooling: The Top 5 Myths Debunked

Fear: I won’t be able to manage the busy schedule.
Reality: Homeschooling gives parents the freedom to be the master of their own schedule

One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the flexibility that it provides for your family. The flexibility to schedule vacations during the most cost-effective times of the year, doctor’s appointments without concern about what class your kids will miss, field trips when the crowds are not so dense, music lessons or athletic training when it is convenient for you are just a few of the scheduling benefits that come with homeschooling.

Fear: I can’t possibly fit it all in.
Reality: Many families spend less time homeschooling than they did on homework and driving before making the switch.

Balancing homework, school drop-off and pick up, music practice, sports, dinner, chores, youth group, clubs, etc. can fill hours of a family schedule. Homeschoolers have the unique benefit of fitting schooling into the time that once was filled with all of the things that happen after school hours. And this leads into the next huge benefit–more time for family!

Fear: I can’t possibly manage having the kids around all day long
Reality: Your family has the opportunity to spend the best hours of each day together.

Each day millions of kids climb on a bus or get dropped off at school during the best hours of the day. They are rested and ready to conquer the world and all too often return home exhausted and grouchy with not much left to give. Then their evening is filled with homework, extracurricular activities, sports and so much more. And when the day ends we can’t help feeling as though we missed both quality and quantity time. Homeschooling gives the family the freedom to enjoy one another and to grow closer every day.

Fear: Being a teacher and parent will make things much too serious.
Reality: Parenting is less restricted and much more fun!

Remember those pre-school days when you weren’t worrying about permission slips, homework alerts, report cards, schedules, etc.? When you had the freedom to just take it easy or head out on an adventure because you had some extra time and energy? Somehow, as our kids get older, parenting shifts from active and involved teacher and adventure seeker to responsible pencil pusher and schedule keeper. Homeschooling is not always easy and doesn’t mean we no longer have to be responsible but it does give us so much more time to enjoy being a parent.

Fear: My kids may fall behind.
Reality: Kids who homeschool tend to excel academically.

The truth about homeschooling is that it is currently the only educational approach that truly allows kids to pursue their strengths while building their weaknesses. No more moving on when your child is struggling or holding them back when they excel. Instead, homeschooling provides the freedom to move slowly when you need to and advance when your kids are ready. And when you find a topic or subject that interests them, you can take the time to dig deeper and explore where their interests take them. This is why homeschoolers tend to excel!

These are our first 5 homeschooling myths. Homeschooling is not for everyone, but if your uncertainty stems out of any of the above reasons, give us a call at 800-863-1474. We would love to work with you to find the right homeschool fit for you and your family. And stay tuned for the next part in our Truth in Homeschooling series where we tackle myths about the home environment, socialization, and character.