Did you know this week is school choice week? We are so incredibly fortunate to have a
choice in our children’s education.
Whether you choose public, private, or homeschool (which is illegal in
some countries), we get to choose what’s best for our children. I know many of my friends are content with
their decision in education – if that’s you, carry-on. If, however, you’re even a little interested
in homeschooling, please read on; I’d love to share a little about our life.
We’ve been homeschooling for almost three years. To be honest, it was a very difficult
decision. I didn’t want them to miss out
on having friends (the great socialization myth!), and I felt inadequate to be
in charge of their entire education (gulp!).
So, after much prayer and advice from friends, we decided to give it a
try. We were committing to one year, and
then at the end of the year, we would re-evaluate.
Well, you know how that first year ended. We began our second year, then our
third. Lord-willing, next year will be
our fourth year.
I enjoy being with my children. Maybe it’s a little selfish, but I want to
spend all day with them. I know that
before long, they’ll be grown, and then I won’t see them as often. In homeschooling, I have more time with
them. And I savor it.
Not always. Sometimes it’s really tough. Sometimes I need a break, sometimes they need a break. I was not equipped with super-patience. Sometimes we grow frustrated. But, over time, I’ve discovered that when they grow frustrated, often that means that we’re working on something that they’re just not ready for. So, we back off and try again later. I love that we can customize their education, and go at their pace based on their ability and skill level.
Not always. Sometimes it’s really tough. Sometimes I need a break, sometimes they need a break. I was not equipped with super-patience. Sometimes we grow frustrated. But, over time, I’ve discovered that when they grow frustrated, often that means that we’re working on something that they’re just not ready for. So, we back off and try again later. I love that we can customize their education, and go at their pace based on their ability and skill level.
I get to teach them.
It’s the most amazing feeling when you hear your struggling reader read
for the first time. It’s amazing to
watch your child (who HATES handwriting) develop a love of cursive. When something questionable comes up, we get
to discuss it together.
I learn from them. I’ve
learned so much with them this year. I
hated history when I was in school, but now I can’t get enough. I’ve learned some Latin, and the Presidents
in order, and all the capitals of the US.
I’ve also learned how to live in the moment and not worry about being
adequate. I’ve learned (the hard way)
how to be more patient. We take it
day-by-day, and learn what we want.
They’ve made so many friends. And they’re not all the same age. I remember when I was younger, I was afraid
of older kids. It may be because I didn’t
have older siblings, or because in school, we stayed with kids in our grade, or
maybe it was my own insecurities. My
children love to play with children of all ages. We meet most of the kids at church, gym
class, or our co-op, so I know their parents, which is awesome too.
Now to be totally honest, I will tell you that this is the
first year ever (so far) that I haven’t considered sending them to school the
next year. It can be really challenging,
but so rewarding.
Enjoy this week. No
matter how your child is educated, celebrate the fact that we have an
option. We are all so blessed! Happy school choice week!
