My kids are 9 and 7 years old and in about a month school is about to start. I was blessed to work as an elementary counselor where my kids attended school. Last year in December, I had to leave my counseling position for health reasons. I asked my kids if they wanted to be homeschooled and they both said agreed. This week I officially decided to homeschool my kids. My kids will be attending a homeschooling program close to our home twice a week and the rest of the week I will supplement with a curriculum. I want to give you my primary reasons for deciding to homeschool my kids.
Focus on Biblical Beliefs
When my son was in 1st grade he asked me, “Mom why doesn’t my teacher teach me about God.” The number one reason why I decided to homeschool is to impart biblical values and morals to my children. In a homeschooling setting, I have the freedom to incorporate the bible into the curriculum. Biblical integration can provide a more holistic education that aligns with my family’s views.
Customized Learning Experience
One of the most significant advantages of homeschooling is the ability to tailor their learning experience to their unique needs, interests, and learning styles. Public schools often follow a one-size-fits-all approach, which can leave some students behind or unchallenged. This was not the case for me working where my children went to school. The advantage I had was that I was able to choose my kid’s teachers. My kids have had a very positive experience in public school because of their teachers. I can attest all of my kid’s teachers have the heart and passion to help every student. My kids love school and this I owe to those teachers but this is not always the case.
Flexible Schedule
Homeschooling offers unparalleled flexibility in terms of scheduling. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for our family because I’m dealing with some health issues. In the future, I will have to travel to have surgery and I’m able to take my kids or send them with my mom without interrupting their learning. Without the constraints of a traditional school calendar, homeschooling families can create a schedule that works best for them, allowing for more family time and less stress.
Family Bonds
Homeschooling naturally leads to increased family time, fostering stronger bonds between parents and children. This close-knit can enhance communication, build trust, and create a supportive environment for the child’s development. Siblings often spend more time together as well, which can strengthen their relationships and teach valuable social skills.
The decision to homeschool is deeply personal and differs from family to family. Whether motivated by a desire for a customized education, a safer environment, or closer family ties, more parents are finding that homeschooling offers the flexibility and control they need to provide the best possible education for their children. As this trend continues to grow, it is essential to recognize and respect the diverse reasons why families choose this path, acknowledging that each family’s journey is unique and valuable.
Homeschooling is not without its challenges, but for many families, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. As more parents explore this option, the homeschooling community continues to expand, offering a wealth of resources, support, and shared experiences to help families succeed in their educational endeavors.
