Families Homeschool for Diverse Reasons
There are as many different reasons families homeschool as there are homeschooling families. For many, homeschooling is a calling. Some say it is a necessity, and others simply say it is a choice. Regardless of the reasons families choose home education, each individual must make the decision freely, and both parents of a two-parent home must be on board for the homeschool to be successful. Homeschooling is a full-time job for the primary homeschooling parent who stays at home day to day.
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Points to Consider
- Religious Convictions. Many families homeschool because they feel God has called them to do so. They want to provide a biblical education for their children and desire to nurture their kids in a godly environment. The freedom to choose curricula means parents can teach creation science, history from a biblical timeline, and can choose reading materials that complement their worldview. Prayer can be a regular part of the school day, as well as structuring their coursework using the Bible as the foundation.
- Medical/Special Needs. Some families choose homeschooling for their children with special needs so they can provide one-on-one teaching, reduce or even eliminate the need for certain medications, and protect their children from issues like exposure to allergens. Many resources are available for this growing homeschooling segment.
- Educational Environment. Concerns over school violence, bullying, overcrowded classrooms, long school days, long commutes, teacher qualifications, and peer pressure are just some of the reasons parents choose to homeschool.
- Academic Excellence. Many parents homeschool in order to cater their curriculum to meet the needs of their child. One-on-one instruction, the ability to complete coursework in a more efficient manner, teaching for mastery, and customized lessons are some ways parents provide stronger academics than many schools can provide.
Bottom Line
Regardless of the reasons a families homeschool, the wealth of resources and support available to homeschooling families makes it easier than ever to provide a stellar education, customized for each child.
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We home schooled our daughter for 11th and 12th grade, using the FLVS curriculum. It was an amazing experience as we had been unhappy with the school system. I will say though that it involved alot more work on my daughter’s part; homework in every class every day; and tons more on her parents.
It was so nice to have her home, on our schedule with full range to ask questions. And as a bonus, I finally passed Calculus! hahah ha
Haha, C. Lee–I’m still trying to “pass” algebra!! Grr! Thanks for stopping by!
This is an important topic! With all things people can be quick to judge. We all have our own needs, ideas and reasons!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Jenn. As a former public school teacher, I can see both sides of the issues surrounding homeschooling. I think we should all support each other as moms, no matter what educational choice we make for our kids. The main thing is to be involved in their lives and love them!
Homeschooling gives us freedom to learn at our pace without pressure and be outside so much more
I love that the most, L. E. My kids don’t usually know the answer to the question, “What grade are you in?” We work at our own pace and move ahead when skills are mastered. It’s not a race! And we love to be outside as much as possible, too. Thanks so much!
I was homeschooled up until 5th grade. When we did enter public school, my sister and I were so bored by the curriculum. We had the opportunity to travel, take art classes, visit museums and go to operas and orchestras, play piano, dance, swim, and ride horses for PE. Then in public school they tried teaching us times tables that we’d already known since age 4! My brother came later and didn’t get homeschooling like we did. I feel sad about that- he didn’t get the same advantage. If I ever have kids, I would feel hesitant about sending them to public school!