Thinking About Homeschooling

Homeschooling. Everybody’s heard of it. But have you ever thought about DOING it?

Homeschooling used to be a “fringe” movement…few homeschooled, and those who did were viewed with suspicion. Questions about the legality of homeschooling were common. But nowadays, homeschooling is more accepted—almost “main-stream”. Everyone seems to know someone who is homeschooling.

Homeschooling is more diverse now, as well. Homeschooling used to be associated mainly with white Christians. But now, minorities are making great inroads into homeschooling. And if you search for homeschool groups online, you’ll find secular groups, religious groups (many different types), and groups based on various teaching methods, curriculums or philosophies.

Why are so many diverse kinds of families homeschooling? Some families start homeschooling in response to problems they encounter in the public schools. Others homeschool with specific goals in mind, such as academic excellence, religious training, or accommodating their child’s special needs or talents. Most families homeschool for a combination of reasons. Whatever their reasons, homeschoolers have unique opportunities that no other educational method can offer--opportunities to completely individualize their children’s curriculum, from teaching methods to the schedule on which they are taught. Most of all, homeschooling families learn together in a safe, supportive atmosphere where close relationships with parents and siblings are nurtured.

*At least as likely, if not MORE likely to attend college (Homeschoolers are highly recruited by colleges.)

*More likely to vote and be civically involved

*More likely to say they are very happy.

* Homeschooled children are more likely to continue in the faith of their family

If you would like to explore the possibilities that homeschooling has to offer, plan on attending “Thinking About Homeschooling” meetings. These meetings are offered once a month, May through September, and cover the following topics: Making the Decision, Legalities and Record Keeping, Choosing/Using Curriculum, and Teaching Preschool and Kindergarten. For more information, please contact Susan Lemons at 661-827-0540, or visit our FB group or www.susanlemons.wordpress.com .

Susan Lemons is the mother of four children who have been homeschooled “from birth”. Susan serves the homeschooling community as a mentor, author, and conference speaker. Susan’s book, Homepreschool And Beyond: A Comprehensive Guide to Early Home Education is available from Amazon.com.

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