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WHAT??? You HOMEschool???
So, many people are incredulous when they find out that I homeschool. I've gotten the wrinkled forehead look, the concerned look, the smirk, the wide-eyed "I-can't-believe-you'd-spend-that-much-time-with-your-kids" look, the furrowed brow, the scratching of the head, the rolling of the eyes and occasionally, the wow-that's-great look. All these looks....directed at lil' ole me! Fancy that!
I've grown accustomed to all these looks, really I have. They don't bother me like they used to. I know what's coming next, too. I can almost mouth it along with the speaker...."So, what about socialization? That just concerns me!" This statement is generally spoken in a rather condescending tone of voice as if I am waiting with baited breath for their unsolicited opinion. I gravely reply that I almost never actually SPEAK to my children and they certainly are NOT involved in any programs with other children, nor are they really allowed to leave the house. In fact, they live completely in bubble, safely tucked away from all negative outside influences 24/7. I say this just to see the reaction from the speaker. Usually their face turns a funny color.
Okay, people, homeschool kids are NOT undersocialized! If anything, I have trouble saying "no" to the enormous variety of outings to choose from involving other homeschool and school kids, playgroups, ballet, soccer, educational trips, neighborhood kids, etc, etc, etc..... So, for the love of mercy, don't ask a homeschool mom if her kids are "socialized". It is THE most ridiculous ignorant question I have ever come across.
Now, I realize that us homeschoolers have acquired a reputation, sometimes bad, sometimes good. However, do all us homie moms a favor and simply listen without all of the preconceived notions that are probably stacked up in your head. Most of us do not grow and can our own food, we buy our bread pre-sliced and many of us are actually *gasp* stylish. BUT, even if we do spend more money on schoolbooks than on our nails, cut us some slack. We are a dedicated group and national statistics show that we educate our kids better and in less time for significantly less money than what our beloved government schools are currently accomplishing.
Isn't it time to let go of the socialization issue? If that's your last punch, then everyone's out of ammo.
;)
Just some thoughts from a homeschool mom.
Cady
Comments
Just curious- why did you choose to home school?
Hi, well, my oldest, Chloe went to public school for Kindergarten and did pretty well there that year. However, she seemed bored and restless. I had a close friend who homeschooled and to be honest with you, I never in a million years thought I would homeschool. I was COMPLETELY intimidated with even the thought of how to do it and where to start.
I started reading some books about it and discovered that it wasn't as difficult or complicated as I thought it was and I literally thought I'd just give it a try and see what happened. I really really wanted my kids to have a great education and I didn't feel that the public school system was giving that to the kids.
Plus, we are Christians and I wanted their education to be centered on Christ, I wanted them to learn about the wonders of God's creation.
We knew several families that homeschooled and there was just something different about their kids. They seemed to be so respectful and knowledgeable and they seemed to be so happy with their parents. I wanted that for my kids.
I certainly don't think that homeschooling is for everyone and I'm not one of those moms who is militant about it. It's definitely a decision that the entire family has to make. There are plenty of great schools out there that are turning out great kids. I just knew that I could do a great job and so far, I've loved it.
You got the long answer! :)
Cady
www.cadydidrooms.com
I think it's awesome, and I'm a firm believer in being open minded about the style people choose to educate their kids. I hate the blanket statements (private schools produce children who don't know reality, homeschoolers are unsocialized, public schools are full of violence, etc). It's a case by case thing, and families choose what is best for them, and I'm not sure why people feel the need to criticize or belittle others' choices.
Same here. I think that kids' personalities are so very different and what works for one might not work for another.
Kudos to you for Homeschooling. I hope to do the same, Lord willing. I must admit it is a scary thought though. I have a few years yet but I am curious what materials you have chosen to use.
We just moved here from Connecticut and I am hoping to connect with other Christian Moms in the area. Thanks for all of your insight. Blessings!
Yay for CT! Don't be intimidated by homeschooling. It's a big job, but if you think of it in the long term, it's scary. Think of it in the same way as when you have a newborn. Yes, it's scary, but in a way it's easy! They eat, sleep and it's pretty simple to start out with. Starting homeschooling is the same way. Kindergarten is a breeze and it's the year you can get your feet wet, try out different curriculums and you don't have to stress if not everything gets done every day. I'd be more than happy to give you advice or encouragement anytime. I remember feeling the same way before I started and now I love it and I wouldn't give it up for anything. (most days) :) Cady www.cadydidrooms.com