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I'm looking at finding more information on homeschooling today.
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Question:
I'm looking at finding more information on homeschooling today. I was
homeschooled in elementary school and I'm wondering what's changed since then.
I remember that my brothers and I had to take state tests every once in a while
to make sure we were learning everything the kids in public school were
learning.
What are some of the pros and cons of homeschooling today? I did like being
homeschooled because I learned a lot faster, but it was so incredibly hard to
make friends when I moved and started going to a public school.
Those of you who homeschool, how do you compensate for the lack of social
interaction? I know education is important, but so is learning to deal with
the world around us.
Answer:
-Lack of social interaction? My kids have a great deal of interaction. We have a
co-op every Friday where they have a history discussion, literature discussion, and
a speech class. They are also involved in many activities outside the home.
They've been involved with several plays, science fairs, music performances, plays
to see, etc. They are also active in the church. There are many opportunities for
them to socialize with kids their age and all ages.
In regards to testing, that is dependent on what your state requires. As far as
dealing with the world, there too, are many opportunities. My daughter has
developed a project, followed it through, and as a family, delivered it to a
mission. They are in the world. They are learning to operate in it just fine.
As far as suggestions: Flexibility is a key to homeschooling. Have a plan, yes.
Just be prepared to have that plan adjusted as opportunities come up. The rewards
are many...the struggles are many. I still wouldn't trade the time I've had with
my children for anything.
-The regulations depend on where you live. Some states have no
requirements at all and some have more extensive requirements.
I suppose it's possible for there to be a lack of social interaction. When
were you homeschooled? Most areas have homeschool support groups
that get together frequently for a variety of activities so there are many
opportunities to develop friendships. But I wonder if in areas where
homeschool is less accepted, if homeschoolers tend to "keep their heads
down" more. I know that I got out *lots* more when we lived in
California. And though my children have had no trouble making friends
with the neighbor kids in the summer, once school starts they are all busy
on the school's schedule and we haven't met many other homeschoolers.
Part of that is because we never seemed to have gotten settled.
And now we are moving again. It will be interesting to see if the looser
rules in New Mexico will mean a difference in the "social" atmosphere.
What I do know is that being in classroom schools would not make
all this moving easier on my kids.
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