Homeschool vs Public School?
You’ve probably seen this topic talked about countless of times throughout the last few days, myself included. I’m sure many of you are sick of it, and many of you are still gathering your thoughts, resources, and information so that you can make the best informed decision for your family.
Now, to be clear, this is something we had our hearts set on since I was pregnant, the plan was for me to continue working until Olivia hit Kindergarten age and then I would resign and pursue Homeschooling for our family. Of course if our daughter ever expressed to us that she would like to try school outside of home it is definitely a decision we would respect.
With the whole Covid thing going on, more and more parents are weighing the options of homeshchooling vs public school. And I just want to say, neither decision is a bad one. Some children absolutely THRIVE in public schools, while others unfortunately do not.
Here are a few short reasons why we chose Homeschooling for our family:
1) FREEDOM:
“What do you mean, freedom?” When you homeschool you are literally your very own school. You can adapt your schedule to fit you and your children’s needs. You can focus on topics as much or as little as you see fit, you can teach in styles that work best for your own students. You can chose different curriculum for each child depending on their learning style, interest, and passions. You can even make your very own curriculum. Nature Studies, Unit Studies, Etc, Let life be your classroom. The beauty of homeschool is that everything is individualised to everyone’s specific needs. Lets be honest, Public Schools inevitably fail some of us. It is impossible to ensure every single child’s needs are met with large class sizes. And with the one-on-one focus Homeschooling gives you, you’re never rushed to “meet deadlines” or “be at a this level” by a certain age or grade. And for many states that also means NO standardized tests!
2) SOCIALIZATION:
I know, I know. I thought the same thing many of you are thinking right now. “What about socialization” I don’t recall being taught how to be social in school. In fact, it was quite the opposite. “Stay in your desks, Single File Lines, Keep your eyes to your self, NO talking!” I went to one of THE top schools in Texas, and I am one very socially awkward, and socially anxious person. I’m quiet, reserved, and often don’t engage in conversation unless someone approaches me first. Its something I’ve been working on diligently for years. With homeschooling your child has ENDLESS opportunities to socialize, and with people of all ages. Many families are heavily involved in their community, from serving their churches, to frequenting Nursing homes, Community Service, Co-Ops, etc. The homeschooling community truly offers an enriching experience with socialization. And unfortunately due to many restrictions with COVID, many families will not be able to experience that their first year.
3) Our Faith and Values:
Many of my school memories were of us studying and taking benchmarks, and learning how to pass standarized tests as early as 2nd grade. One of the main reasons we are choosing homeschooling is to incorporate our Faith and to establish good character building. It is something we are very passionate about and feel like it is very important for our family to have a good understanding of our relationship with Christ. With that being said, not every homeschooling family is religious-based. Many are secular, but I think we can all agree with the character building and morals aspect of choosing to homeschool our kids.
4) INDEPENDENT THINKERS:
Often times in traditional school we learn what we learn and don’t question it. Everything is set out in front of us and we don’t always have the opportunity to explore many aspects of certain topics. Homeschooling allows you to raise children who can form their own opinions and become independent thinkers. It allows them to fuel their curiosities and interest without feeling pressure to conform to the latest trends or “norms”
These are just a few of the many reasons we are choosing homeschooling for our family. Keep in mind the point of this post is not to bash traditional schools or teachers. At the end of the day parents, know that you have rights and you can choose. We teach our children how to eat, walk, talk, ride a bike, homeschooling is no different. You are more than capable, after all, parents know their children best.
For more information on homeschooling visit HSLDA.ORG
Grace Mccoy 