Christian UC: Homeschooling

Why we homeschool

I made the decision to home school my children when I was 15 years old. I was at a family birthday party and was listening to the adults complain about public schools. “Too much homework”, “Not enough learning”, “Wasted money” etc. etc. I innocently inquired “If you are so unhappy with public schools, why don’t you home school?” My question was met with loud laughter. Someone said “We’ll see if you say the same thing when you have children.” Well, here I am with three children and my answer is still the same: Homeschool.

So why home school? The reasons for home schooling vary wildly among parents. Here are just a few of the reasons that many homeschool:

Religion: Many people are unhappy with the moral example that public schools set. Some feel that their religion is an integral part of their family and lifestyle and it should be included in their children’s schooling as well. Joanne, home schooling mother of three puts it this way, “Eight hours a day not talking about God screams volumes. In our home school, a visit to the principle's office means reading the Word.”

Academic: Tests scores in public schools are plummeting and parents are losing confidence that their children are getting a good education. It is widely known that lower class size and more one on one attention is vital. What could fit that bill better than home school? Children’s interests and learning styles vary. It is impossible for a public school teacher to cater to the needs of each of her students. She may have 40 in her class! However, for a homeschooling parent, it is much easier. Parents and children alike are pleased with the results.

Social: Who doesn’t remember that schoolyard bully? Having to go to school with not-quite name brand jeans? The bullies, the teasing and the materialism are all still there. Nothing has changed, and in fact it is getting worse. Parents want to shield their children from such unnecessary socialization. They don’t want their children to be bombarded with materialism, greed, selfishness, hatred and cliquiness that runs amuck in public schools. Joann says, “Socialization is the REASON we home school.”

Family: These days families are being pushed further and further apart. Everyone has so many activities that the family is hardly together anymore. Some families choose home school as a way to reconnect. Other families do not want to be torn apart quite so easily and homeschool as a way to keep their connection intact. Still others like to travel and see homeschooling as a way to do so without disrupting their child’s learning. How much more interesting is the Grand Canyon in person! Kayte, homeschooling mother of four says: “Learning through real world experiences teaches our kids how to do things in the big world. I want my kids to know how to take care of themselves and others, so am teaching them by the way I care for others and them.”

Gifted children: Many children are diagnosed with having ADHD, personality disorders or learning disorders when they are in fact gifted. Parents don’t want their gifted children to be bored. They are able to teach them at the accelerated pace they need. There are some public schools that accommodate gifted children and of course we all remember the kid who “skipped grades”, but is this the best answer? Homeschooler’s say no.

So why do I home school? Well, it isn’t just for one reason. I want the freedom to teach my children at the pace they need and with the style they require. I want freedom from teachings that go against our moral code. I want a strong family connection, children free of schoolyard bullies and I want an excellent education for my children. That’s why we home school.

About the author:
Kat Olson is a homeschooling mom of three boys in Minnesota
who enjoys sewing, scrapbooking, and making crafts.

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