When my kids began their “schooling career” we were hopeful for the future. We researched every preschool in town in an attempt to provide them with the best start possible, and found just that in a local Montessori school in our hometown. Pricey? Yes. Would I have done it any differently? Not a chance!
Montessori provided them with a love for school that I’m grateful for, and often days I’m in awe of how eager they are to learn new things, make new friends, and thrive in many areas. Looking back, I certainly had no such love for school and I thank my lucky stars each and every day that they do not feel the same.
However, with class sizes rising here in California (average classroom is size is now 30-40 students per class), we have seen our second grader backslide this year in certain subjects, and we began to contemplate whether a public school education was really suitable for her, or her younger sister.
The idea of Homeschooling suddenly rang a bell for the first time.
Truth be told, homeschooling wasn’t exactly an idea that was even on the radar. With my husband just finishing up his BA and contemplating whether or not to pursue his Ph.D. in Psychology and work at a place like PCH Treatment, or rather pursue a MFT and work for himself, we were certainly at a crossroads with not just schooling, but the entire structure of our life as a whole. I had planned to stay home with the girls until they were a bit older, but I also work from home and to make homeschooling work, I would have to fore-go my personal plans and focus and the girls education.
As you can imagine, the importance of their education was at the top of the list, and we have decided to move forward with homeschooling both girls next year. While my husband has yet to pick a certain path, I’m certain that he will make the decision that’s best for him, and our family.
The decision was such a big one, but I feel that we are making the best decision on their part. I know that the one-on-one attention that they will receive for the next few years will be priceless in the end – although I must admit that we are rather overwhelmed with the different homeschooling approaches and curricula. I suppose we’ll save that discussion for another day!
Are you currently homeschooling? Are you considering homeschooling? Weigh in! Tell us your thoughts and experiences!
This was our first year homeschooling. It is NOT something we ever, EVER thought we would do–in fact, I thought it was a pretty silly concept. Until I actually read about it. A lot!
It’s not always easy. I, too work from home (on little Indiana) which is part of the reason why we homeschool–we do a lot of traveling!) but I found a curriculum that I mostly love.
Everything is planned out for me so I don’t need to worry about that part. I throw in hands-on craft type of stuff to supplement and keep ’em happy.
My advice to you? Do what works for you and try not to get your feathers ruffled when you get “the look” after you say you homeschool.
There’s loads of groups and classes–many YMCA’s are offering special homeschool programs, too! Look for email lists in your area to find stuff for homeschoolers. Get ’em involved and keep it fun! 🙂