To begin, I find it quite sad that parents are often on the receiving end of disapproval for their desire to be the primary educator of their children. For myself, I did a lot of research soon after I married, years before my daughter was born. I went over the pros and cons, as well as ways to supplement her education through local co-ops and field trips.
Faith/Building Character: As a Christian, I understood that it is my responsibility to diligently train my child(ren) in the ways of the Lord. With this, I clearly saw the difficulties that I would have with my children being in the care of others for much of their early years. I knew even in private school I would find myself having to correct what she is taught that does not line up with our faith. Children are young and impressionable and as a parent it makes me uncomfortable not knowing what is being instilled into her each day.
Socialization: Many use this as a rebuttal as to why children should be in a classroom. But I ask, "What exactly is the behavior that children need to learn to emulate in public schools?"
To those who ask about socialization, my question is "What do children often get in trouble for while at school?" Talking or socializing. If the classroom was designed to socialize, majority of the daily schedule would consist of chatting and hanging with classmates/friends, rather than listening to teachers. With public schools, children are grouped with children of the same age, educational level, and often the same social-economic background. Homeschooling allows more time to interact with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. In a parent-monitored environment, self-esteem is guarded and self-confidence is built in the ways of dealing with difficult and challenging people until they are developmentally ready.
Socialization is a means to convert or adapt to the needs of society. But
Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
Proverbs 22: 24-25 “Do not make friends with the hot-tempered, do not associate with those who are easily angered; or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be mislead: “bad company corrupts good character.” This leads back to my first reason of building character.
Personalized Curriculum: With home education you can design a one-on-one academic plan based on the learning style and interest of each child. No waiting for a certain grade level to learn a certain subject, no waiting on other students to catch up, no rush to memorize a topic to simply pass a test. Real life skills can be taught and incorporated on a daily basis.
Freedom: As a homeschooler, you can decide when "class" will start and end. This ranges from the hours, days, and months of each school year. No rush because school buses have arrived, or the last day of school is approaching. I also LOVE to travel and like to be able to go during off-seasons when prices are lower because children are traditional in school.
Bottom line: homeschooling is a calling for me.
