Next Question
RSS
Tracebooks did an excellent job of answering your question. I would add that you will want to look at your lifestyle, your own strengths and weaknesses, and the personalities of your children.
There are kids who do fantastic in a school environment, and others who were just not made for it. Likewise, there are families who thrive in the social hubbub of the school environment, and others who do best in a more relaxed learning community. Even as a single parent, I find it easier now that my child is not in school. I know he is happier, driven to learn by his own curiosity and growing confidence, and building meaningful friendships with unique and interesting people of all ages. I also enjoy the fiercely independent, creative and opinionated adults I am getting to know along the way!
Side note: During the California homeschool legal drama, a number of credentialed teachers posted to the homeschool lists explaining that the main focus of a teaching credential is learning to manage a large group. Even a "student body" of five doesn't qualify as a large group!
Here is a link to quotes by credentialed teachers on the California Homeschool Network website:
http://californiahomeschool.net/resources/teachercomments
It can't be over-emphasized here that a great deal of homeschooling does NOT happen at home. There are many, many learning opportunities available outside of school, from your retired woodworking neighbor to co-op language, math and science classes. For homeschoolers, school can be park day (social problem solving), grocery shopping (math, reading, consumer awareness), or Gramma's hospital visit (he LOVED the blood test).
Search Yahoogroups and other social networks for like-minded homeschooling families. Odds are, there are homeschool park play days not far from you. This is an excellent second step of your research: It's where you find (or create) YOUR learning community. You will also find helpful and generous homeschoolers who have "gone before you", and who can answer questions about what to expect, how to deal with challenges, and where to look for activities and learning opportunities in your area.
For inspiration and ideas, I highly recommend a book by David Albert: "And the Skylark Sings with Me". In it, he talks about how his family engaged their community in enriching the lives of their children. This is a great example of a homeschooling family who did not "school at home" nor follow a set homeschooling style. You can find his book on his website (http://skylarksings.com/) as well as other intriguing titles.
Finally, there are basic homeschool approaches from which you can pick and choose to create your family's unique flavor (hopefully, others will fill in what I've left out):
School at Home
- workbooks
- packaged curricula
- school sponsored "independent study programs"
See the links above, and explore the A-to-Z Home's Cool site, which is packed full of links and info on homeschooling choices:
http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/directory/Beginning.htm#Planning
Waldorf/Steiner
http://christopherushomeschool.org/an_introduction_to_waldorf_education.htm
Unschooling and Life Learning
http://www.unschooling.com/
http://www.unschooling.org/
Classical Education
Thomas Edison Education
Charlotte Mason
"The Well Trained Mind"
http://simplycharlottemason.com/basics/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/moreaboutbook.php
The bottom line is to choose and design what brings enrichment, inspiration and delight to you and your family. These years will pass quickly -- make the most of them!
Source(s):
http://californiahomeschool.net/resources/teachercomments
http://www.skylarksings.com/
http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/directory/Beginning.htm#Planning
http://christopherushomeschool.org/an_introduction_to_waldorf_education.htm
http://www.unschooling.com/
http://www.unschooling.org/
http://simplycharlottemason.com/basics/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/moreaboutbook.php
Permalink | Report
Source(s):
http://www.homeschool.com/
http://www.donnayoung.org/
http://www.homeschoolcentral.com/
http://www.hewitthomeschooling.com/home/hmain.asp?h=1
Permalink | Report
-Boy scouts/girl scouts
-Sports
-Church involvement
Also, my sister-in-law is a home school co-op science teacher and she meets with a group of 5-7 kids twice a week to teach science. This is a good option in order to have someone with a background in the subject teaching the sciences.
Source(s):
sister-in-law
Permalink | Report
The first of these problems is easy to fix- have your child join sport teams, and spend several hours every week with children of their own age.
The other is not so easy. One possible solution is to hire a tutor once a week. Simply bringing in another teacher can help improve your child's ability to learn from both the tutor and yourself.
Homeschooling is a very personalized art, and in the end, only you know how to best teach your child. Good luck!
Source(s):
http://www.allaboutparenting.org/advantages-of-home-schooling-faq.htm
Permalink | Report
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/8-essential-skills-they-didnt-teach-you-in-school.html
http://www.briankim.net/blog/2007/03/top-5-things-that-should-be-taught-in-every-school/
Permalink | Report
Permalink | Report
I'm sure you can find at least a good public elementary school. If high school is too much for your child and you can't afford a private school, then you can home school I guess.
For me high school has taught me so much outside of the book. I've had fascinating teachers. I've had to learn how to confront problems, and I've learned to socialize with my peers. Homeschooling just can't recreate this experience.
Permalink | Report
I would suggest, above all, that anyone considering homeschooling start their kids off early and with much enthusiasm, and encourage the kids to learn much early on. One of my sisters did not start her kid off rapidly, and has earned much ridicule from even her own siblings for not putting him in public school.
Also, some states have started to try to crack down on homeschooling parents, most notably California, in which one judge almost banned homeschooling outright (would have required the homeschooling parent to have a teaching credential, which takes years and much effort to obtain). Helping your kids to learn quickly and above the standards used in public schools will help to ensure that your parenting is beyond reproach, in case the nasty neighbor two doors down decides to make any anonymous calls to child services.
Source(s):
Family experience, information from homeschooled friends
Permalink | Report
There are a few good things to consider about an online school:
1. There is social interaction (although most of it is not face to face).
2. Multiple teachers for multiple subjects.
3. Counselors are available to help with college plans.
A downside is my sister is going to have to take biology and chemistry from a junior college (She needs two lab sciences for college applications).
This might be an option you want to check into. I included a link that talks about different online home schooling options.
Note: My sister was strongly against being home schooled. She still says she would rather be in public school but she does like having the freedom of being at home. She is really happy my mom isn't teaching her.
Source(s):
http://distancelearn.about.com/od/virtualhighschools/a/onlinehs.htm
and family experience.
Permalink | Report
1. They feel that the school system is dangerous, and do not want to expose their children to that.
2. They feel that the school is not good, and wish to provide their child with a good education.
3. They feel that the school cannot cater to the special needs of their child.
4. They feel that the school teaches something they don't want their child to hear about.
#1 is perhaps the most valid reason to home school. If there are shootings, beatings, or other dangerous occurrences at the school, it is probably a good idea not to put a child in that environment. #2 is less valid. Unless you know enough about every subject taught to teach it, you are better off letting the child go to school. If this is elementary school or middle school this is less of an issue, as the topics covered are not difficult, but then you are depriving them of social opportunities. #3 is reasonable if your child is disabled and the school cannot deal with it. Otherwise it is not. #4 is perhaps the least valid reason. If you oppose the teaching of something such as evolution, and do not wish for your child to learn about it, then it might seem rational to home school. This is a bad idea regardless of your beliefs. The child should be exposed to multiple viewpoints, and allowed to come to a conclusion of his/her own.
The main reasons not to home school are:
1. Depriving a child of the opportunity to meet and play with others of his/her age.
2. It is not a traditional academic environment, which may cause problems when it is time to go to college. The school environment prepares you for the later college experience.
If you decide to home school, be sure the reason is good.
Permalink | Report
http://www.chancelitton.com/?p=164
http://justenough.wordpress.com/2007/08/26/considering-homeschooling-curriculum/
http://www.leah.org/articles/considering.html
6 Vital Question To Ask Yourself When Considering Homeschooling
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/6-Vital-Question-To-Ask-Yourself-When-Considering-Homeschooling/330078
http://homeschool.lifetips.com/faq/23345/0/how-do-i-determine-grades-for-my-kids/index.html
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081201163049AAY4yf8
http://www.syl.com/articles/homeschoolinginyourhomeisitrightforyouandyourchild.html
Permalink | Report
Permalink | Report
If you want to see a good model for this, there is an Ontario, Canada school that can give you some great information at www.virtualhighschool.com
And just so you know, I don't work for them. I teach for a public school board that has a successful online education initiative.
Permalink | Report
First you need to check with your state's homeschooling laws. You can find this information either through NHEN.org or HSLDA.org .
After you've followed the law in regards to the legality of setting up your school, you need to next figure out your homeschooling style. I've written a comprehensive Quick Start guide on figuring out your child's learning style and picking an educational style that matches that, and then a curriculum/supplies within that style. That's it in a nutshell. You can find reviews on educational styles at www.thehomeschoollibrary.com, and then reviews of curricula that place them within those styles.
For example, if you determine that your child is a hands-on learner (no wonder they didn't do well sitting behind a desk all day), then you might decide that Unit Studies are a good style for you. So you check at the Homeschool Library reviews, and narrow it down to Konos or The Weaver. There are literally hundreds of curricula written especially for homeschoolers at this point, so it helps to have a way to narrow it down.
Finally, add in "extra curriculars". The socialization myth is just that, a myth. Most homeschoolers will have sports, music lessons, or other activities and clubs where their children see the same kids on a regular basis. There are even field trip groups where they get the group rate, just like schools, to see otherwise expensive attractions. And there are all kinds of classes and co-ops, too, so you don't necessarily have to be your child's only teacher.
Most homeschoolers do get loads of diversity, just by participating in everyday life instead of being in a room all day with only their same-age peers from their zip code. Just a trip to the grocery can have kids encountering people from all around the globe in many areas, and certainly of a wider age range than they'd interact with at school. So this is really not a concern unless you intend that they never venture out of their bedrooms. JUST a JOKE, folks!
Find yourself support, not only in your area, but online. There are many good support groups for all kinds of people, from single parents, to people homeschooling kids with special needs, to various flavors of religious homeschoolers.
Finally, teach them life skills. So many kids anymore graduate unable to take care of the work of day-to-day living: unable to do laundry, cook, or balance a checkbook. People are actually forming clubs to teach each other these skills.
Our experience:
Gifted kids with 1)sensory integration disorder; 2) ADHD and 3) just very bright. None of them a good fit for mass education.
Source(s):
8 years' experience; in-depth college pre-law trial practice course in which the topic was education in America; contact with scores of homeschooling families; extensive reading
Permalink | Report
Permalink | Report
Consider the personality of whoever the teacher-parent is going to be and the child's personality. How do they mesh. Look at it realistically not how you would want it to be. IF this combination is going to be one of peace and positive energy go for it. If it is going to be a constant battle or regular battle go find another way path of education. Consider closely WHY you want to homeschool is there another option to reach those goals. This is not and should not be an easy solution. Personally, it should be a last resort. Sorry folks I don't think everyone is able to teach. You may be able to help with homework somewhat, but teach from scratch well it really isn't in everyone. Just because you learned it one way doesn't mean your child will learn it the same way or even completely. I better stop here... It really is a tough decision, take your time and look deep inside and at all possible angles.
Source(s):
My personal struggles with this decision.
Permalink | Report
Permalink | Report
"Schome is going to be a new form of educational system designed to overcome the problems within current education systems. It will meet the needs of society and individuals in the twenty-first century and will be a system which values and supports people learning throughout their lives."
You may want to check out their work on their site and wiki.
Source(s):
Interview with Peter Twinning:
http://www.futurelab.org.uk/projects/teachers-as-innovators/stories-of-prac...
Schome site: http://www.schome.ac.uk/
Schome Wiki: http://www.schome.ac.uk/wiki/Main_Page
Permalink | Report
Source(s):
I currently home school my 4 children.
Permalink | Report
I hope you will enjoy the links that are there and that they might help.
http://delicious.com/discoveryea
Permalink | Report
http://www.hslda.org/
Not only do they protect you if the school or truancy comes to your home you can get discounts on things with your membership
http://homeschoolers.multiply.com/
Homeschooling 1 year today! Whoohoo!
Good Luck
Permalink | Report
Answered Question
M$3
December 18, 2008 12:08 AM
Any good ideas for someone who is considering homeschooling kids?
I know many people are not happy with the way public schools work - any good homeschooling ideas or experiences?
- an update: Anyone has experience with that or maybe knows someone who has?
- an update: Anyone has experience with that or maybe knows someone who has?
Interesting Question?
Yes (0)
No (0)
- In Home Schooling |
- |
- Report |
-
Share
RSS
Best Answer Chosen by Asker
| December 20, 2008 04:04 PM |
There are kids who do fantastic in a school environment, and others who were just not made for it. Likewise, there are families who thrive in the social hubbub of the school environment, and others who do best in a more relaxed learning community. Even as a single parent, I find it easier now that my child is not in school. I know he is happier, driven to learn by his own curiosity and growing confidence, and building meaningful friendships with unique and interesting people of all ages. I also enjoy the fiercely independent, creative and opinionated adults I am getting to know along the way!
Side note: During the California homeschool legal drama, a number of credentialed teachers posted to the homeschool lists explaining that the main focus of a teaching credential is learning to manage a large group. Even a "student body" of five doesn't qualify as a large group!
Here is a link to quotes by credentialed teachers on the California Homeschool Network website:
http://californiahomeschool.net/resources/teachercomments
It can't be over-emphasized here that a great deal of homeschooling does NOT happen at home. There are many, many learning opportunities available outside of school, from your retired woodworking neighbor to co-op language, math and science classes. For homeschoolers, school can be park day (social problem solving), grocery shopping (math, reading, consumer awareness), or Gramma's hospital visit (he LOVED the blood test).
Search Yahoogroups and other social networks for like-minded homeschooling families. Odds are, there are homeschool park play days not far from you. This is an excellent second step of your research: It's where you find (or create) YOUR learning community. You will also find helpful and generous homeschoolers who have "gone before you", and who can answer questions about what to expect, how to deal with challenges, and where to look for activities and learning opportunities in your area.
For inspiration and ideas, I highly recommend a book by David Albert: "And the Skylark Sings with Me". In it, he talks about how his family engaged their community in enriching the lives of their children. This is a great example of a homeschooling family who did not "school at home" nor follow a set homeschooling style. You can find his book on his website (http://skylarksings.com/) as well as other intriguing titles.
Finally, there are basic homeschool approaches from which you can pick and choose to create your family's unique flavor (hopefully, others will fill in what I've left out):
School at Home
- workbooks
- packaged curricula
- school sponsored "independent study programs"
See the links above, and explore the A-to-Z Home's Cool site, which is packed full of links and info on homeschooling choices:
http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/directory/Beginning.htm#Planning
Waldorf/Steiner
http://christopherushomeschool.org/an_introduction_to_waldorf_education.htm
Unschooling and Life Learning
http://www.unschooling.com/
http://www.unschooling.org/
Classical Education
Thomas Edison Education
Charlotte Mason
"The Well Trained Mind"
http://simplycharlottemason.com/basics/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/moreaboutbook.php
The bottom line is to choose and design what brings enrichment, inspiration and delight to you and your family. These years will pass quickly -- make the most of them!
Source(s):
http://californiahomeschool.net/resources/teachercomments
http://www.skylarksings.com/
http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/directory/Beginning.htm#Planning
http://christopherushomeschool.org/an_introduction_to_waldorf_education.htm
http://www.unschooling.com/
http://www.unschooling.org/
http://simplycharlottemason.com/basics/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/moreaboutbook.php
| Asker's Rating: |
• great answer penina - thank you very much!
Permalink | Report
Reply
Other Answers (26)
December 18, 2008 12:15 AM
depends on the state in my home state you have to a licensed teacher to homeschool your kids, there are plenty of online resources that can help you with the curiculum needed to get a diploma or GED
Source(s):
http://www.homeschool.com/
http://www.donnayoung.org/
http://www.homeschoolcentral.com/
http://www.hewitthomeschooling.com/home/hmain.asp?h=1
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 06:06 AM
Not sure about the LICENSED teacher part. I would check HSLDA for that, but I do know... HOMESCHOOLERS are not GED grads... http://www.hslda.org/laws/default.asp
There are only 6 states that are really STRICT...
"State with high regulation: State requires parents to send notification or achievement test scores and/or professional evaluation, plus other requirements (e.g. curriculum approval by the state, teacher qualification of parents, or home visits by state officials)."
Report
There are only 6 states that are really STRICT...
"State with high regulation: State requires parents to send notification or achievement test scores and/or professional evaluation, plus other requirements (e.g. curriculum approval by the state, teacher qualification of parents, or home visits by state officials)."
December 18, 2008 12:19 AM
I agree with the post above. Definately consider extra curricular social networking such as: -Boy scouts/girl scouts
-Sports
-Church involvement
Also, my sister-in-law is a home school co-op science teacher and she meets with a group of 5-7 kids twice a week to teach science. This is a good option in order to have someone with a background in the subject teaching the sciences.
Source(s):
sister-in-law
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 12:20 AM
The two largest problems with homeschooling are a lack of socializing with peers, and a possible gap of knowledge from having only one teacher for their entire educational career. The first of these problems is easy to fix- have your child join sport teams, and spend several hours every week with children of their own age.
The other is not so easy. One possible solution is to hire a tutor once a week. Simply bringing in another teacher can help improve your child's ability to learn from both the tutor and yourself.
Homeschooling is a very personalized art, and in the end, only you know how to best teach your child. Good luck!
Source(s):
http://www.allaboutparenting.org/advantages-of-home-schooling-faq.htm
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 06:17 AM
Actually this is very untrue. There are well over 2 million homeschoolers if not more "not on the books".
They far excel those in the PS system.. Bad budgets.. No child left behind is a load of you know what, .being taught for the tests ...
Labels, confinement on what can and can't be taught.. cus the Government SAYS SO. Time limits because not enough TIME in the day.
Line up - sit down, do this so that..
I was told this is the only time in our lives when we work with those the same age as us and I never thought of it that way before. There are all kinds of ages when you work in a job.
I watched my middle sons kinder glass and I about lost it is was so sad.
Report
They far excel those in the PS system.. Bad budgets.. No child left behind is a load of you know what, .being taught for the tests ...
Labels, confinement on what can and can't be taught.. cus the Government SAYS SO. Time limits because not enough TIME in the day.
Line up - sit down, do this so that..
I was told this is the only time in our lives when we work with those the same age as us and I never thought of it that way before. There are all kinds of ages when you work in a job.
I watched my middle sons kinder glass and I about lost it is was so sad.
December 18, 2008 12:22 AM
Be sure to teach them "what they are not teaching you in schools". http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/8-essential-skills-they-didnt-teach-you-in-school.html
http://www.briankim.net/blog/2007/03/top-5-things-that-should-be-taught-in-every-school/
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 12:34 AM
I am being homeschooled myself and enjoy it. I would recommend enrolling through a public charter or private school that has optional class days. That way, we get the social interactivity we want with the freedom of homeschooling. The class days are great for any age.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 12:39 AM
As a high school student, I strongly recommend against this! I'm sure you can find at least a good public elementary school. If high school is too much for your child and you can't afford a private school, then you can home school I guess.
For me high school has taught me so much outside of the book. I've had fascinating teachers. I've had to learn how to confront problems, and I've learned to socialize with my peers. Homeschooling just can't recreate this experience.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 04:03 AM
As a past Home School parent, I understand your misgiving, however meeting interesting people and learning to interact socially is not exclusive to public education. Home Schooling can, in fact, allow just as much, if not more interaction and possibilities than traditional education.
Report
December 18, 2008 01:01 AM
its not only getting along with other people... its what other people have to offer as far as information and life lessons.
Report
December 18, 2008 01:03 AM
There are some homeschooling organizations (usually religious) that permit homeschooling parents to interact with each other and teach each others' kids different subjects. This is always a good thing to look for, in that it will allow you a little time without your kids every now and then. Also, it allows your kids to socialize with others in a school-like environment. I would suggest, above all, that anyone considering homeschooling start their kids off early and with much enthusiasm, and encourage the kids to learn much early on. One of my sisters did not start her kid off rapidly, and has earned much ridicule from even her own siblings for not putting him in public school.
Also, some states have started to try to crack down on homeschooling parents, most notably California, in which one judge almost banned homeschooling outright (would have required the homeschooling parent to have a teaching credential, which takes years and much effort to obtain). Helping your kids to learn quickly and above the standards used in public schools will help to ensure that your parenting is beyond reproach, in case the nasty neighbor two doors down decides to make any anonymous calls to child services.
Source(s):
Family experience, information from homeschooled friends
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 01:29 AM
My sister is being home schooled for the first time this year. (She is in the 10th grade.) Because it is high school, she does an online charter school program. It's free to attend (it's a public school, only online) and they even provide a computer and printer. There are a few good things to consider about an online school:
1. There is social interaction (although most of it is not face to face).
2. Multiple teachers for multiple subjects.
3. Counselors are available to help with college plans.
A downside is my sister is going to have to take biology and chemistry from a junior college (She needs two lab sciences for college applications).
This might be an option you want to check into. I included a link that talks about different online home schooling options.
Note: My sister was strongly against being home schooled. She still says she would rather be in public school but she does like having the freedom of being at home. She is really happy my mom isn't teaching her.
Source(s):
http://distancelearn.about.com/od/virtualhighschools/a/onlinehs.htm
and family experience.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 02:19 AM
I would recommend against it unless the school system is dangerous. As far as I can tell, there are four main reasons that people home school: 1. They feel that the school system is dangerous, and do not want to expose their children to that.
2. They feel that the school is not good, and wish to provide their child with a good education.
3. They feel that the school cannot cater to the special needs of their child.
4. They feel that the school teaches something they don't want their child to hear about.
#1 is perhaps the most valid reason to home school. If there are shootings, beatings, or other dangerous occurrences at the school, it is probably a good idea not to put a child in that environment. #2 is less valid. Unless you know enough about every subject taught to teach it, you are better off letting the child go to school. If this is elementary school or middle school this is less of an issue, as the topics covered are not difficult, but then you are depriving them of social opportunities. #3 is reasonable if your child is disabled and the school cannot deal with it. Otherwise it is not. #4 is perhaps the least valid reason. If you oppose the teaching of something such as evolution, and do not wish for your child to learn about it, then it might seem rational to home school. This is a bad idea regardless of your beliefs. The child should be exposed to multiple viewpoints, and allowed to come to a conclusion of his/her own.
The main reasons not to home school are:
1. Depriving a child of the opportunity to meet and play with others of his/her age.
2. It is not a traditional academic environment, which may cause problems when it is time to go to college. The school environment prepares you for the later college experience.
If you decide to home school, be sure the reason is good.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 07:11 PM
- Fact Refuted
I agree with your reasoning on #1. Especially if the school has a bullying problem and it isn't improving either with or without the school's efforts.
But I disagree with your reasoning on the other points. 2.: You do NOT need to know every subject well enough to teach it. Did you know a good percentage of government school teachers are teaching a subject that they don't have an educational background in? Your child's math teacher may have actually prepped to teach history, or kindergartners, in college.
It is very common for homeschoolers to outsource parts or all of their child's education, from co-ops and tutors to distance schools requiring contact with a teacher via email or phone. There are also many courses available through satellite, DVDs and local colleges.
The socialization myth is the biggest one out there. The vast majority of homeschooled kids have daily contact with other people of all ages, and most of them have a circle of friends. There is a difference between socializing and socialization. The latter is generally defined as learning the customs, values and patterns of behavior of your culture, and is something I'd rather my kids not learn from the children of strangers.
#3: It's not just if your child is disabled and the school can't handle it. I counsel parents every week for where their special needs child has an IEP that the school isn't following. Or gifted kids who are being actively told to slow down and not work to their potentials. One size does NOT fit all. And then there is the issue of learning styles. Schools do very well teaching to one learning style: the type that sits still and learns well from books. Everyone else gets a grade stamped on the forehead and doesn't master the material. In homeschooling, you get to tailor the approach to the child so they can truly learn and master it.
#4 is only invalid if you believe that the government should have control over what we believe. Most people who are active in their religion, whether they are Muslim or Christian or Buddhist, do not want their children exposed to other beliefs when they are too young to really think about it, or at all.
Your main reasons not to homeschool are also not valid:
1. Again, homeschooled children are not deprived socially. If you live near no other children, you may have to make more of an effort to get them together with others, but your reasoning assumes that homeschoolers stay home all the time. They probably get out MORE than other kids, because they don't have to be in the same building from 8 to 4 daily.
2. Homeschoolers learn how to be self-motivated learners and have a track record of success in college. Many colleges and employers seek out homeschoolers because they have a great work ethic. They were never able to copy, cheat, or hide behind others in school, and never allowed to halfway learn something and get graded low but go on anyway. They typically have the mindset of a graduate student sometime in their early teens: they know if the work is going to be done, they will be the ones to do it, and they will pursue things they're interested in tenaciously, but complete the things they simply have to do, too.
I would turn it around and say, if you're going to mass educate, make sure the reason is good.
Report
But I disagree with your reasoning on the other points. 2.: You do NOT need to know every subject well enough to teach it. Did you know a good percentage of government school teachers are teaching a subject that they don't have an educational background in? Your child's math teacher may have actually prepped to teach history, or kindergartners, in college.
It is very common for homeschoolers to outsource parts or all of their child's education, from co-ops and tutors to distance schools requiring contact with a teacher via email or phone. There are also many courses available through satellite, DVDs and local colleges.
The socialization myth is the biggest one out there. The vast majority of homeschooled kids have daily contact with other people of all ages, and most of them have a circle of friends. There is a difference between socializing and socialization. The latter is generally defined as learning the customs, values and patterns of behavior of your culture, and is something I'd rather my kids not learn from the children of strangers.
#3: It's not just if your child is disabled and the school can't handle it. I counsel parents every week for where their special needs child has an IEP that the school isn't following. Or gifted kids who are being actively told to slow down and not work to their potentials. One size does NOT fit all. And then there is the issue of learning styles. Schools do very well teaching to one learning style: the type that sits still and learns well from books. Everyone else gets a grade stamped on the forehead and doesn't master the material. In homeschooling, you get to tailor the approach to the child so they can truly learn and master it.
#4 is only invalid if you believe that the government should have control over what we believe. Most people who are active in their religion, whether they are Muslim or Christian or Buddhist, do not want their children exposed to other beliefs when they are too young to really think about it, or at all.
Your main reasons not to homeschool are also not valid:
1. Again, homeschooled children are not deprived socially. If you live near no other children, you may have to make more of an effort to get them together with others, but your reasoning assumes that homeschoolers stay home all the time. They probably get out MORE than other kids, because they don't have to be in the same building from 8 to 4 daily.
2. Homeschoolers learn how to be self-motivated learners and have a track record of success in college. Many colleges and employers seek out homeschoolers because they have a great work ethic. They were never able to copy, cheat, or hide behind others in school, and never allowed to halfway learn something and get graded low but go on anyway. They typically have the mindset of a graduate student sometime in their early teens: they know if the work is going to be done, they will be the ones to do it, and they will pursue things they're interested in tenaciously, but complete the things they simply have to do, too.
I would turn it around and say, if you're going to mass educate, make sure the reason is good.
December 18, 2008 11:36 PM
To back up my statement "Did you know a good percentage of government school teachers are teaching a subject that they don't have an educational background in? Your child's math teacher may have actually prepped to teach history, or kindergartners, in college."
http://www.educationworld.com/a_admin/admin/admin143.shtml
" In analyzing data from the U.S. Department of Education, University of Georgia sociologist Richard M. Ingersoll learned that approximately 28 percent of all high school math teachers lack even the equivalent of a college minor in math. In Alaska, that number is greater than 50 percent! Eighteen percent of all science teachers are similarly deficient in their preparation. Further, many of those educators who are certified to teach science are certified to teach in an area of science different from the one they are teaching. For example, a teacher certified to teach earth science may be teaching biology.
Texas's Teacher Recruitment and Retention Study found the situation in their junior high schools even worse. Thirty-nine percent of their seventh and eighth grade math teachers and one out of every three science teachers were not certified to teach those subjects.
Out-of-field teaching is not an aberration, and it is not restricted to only a few subjects. Nationwide, students in one of five classes in U.S. secondary schools have teachers with neither a major nor a minor in the subject. In schools whose students come from low-income households, the percentage of teachers teaching out of their field is much higher. "
And there is much more in the article on this topic.
Report
http://www.educationworld.com/a_admin/admin/admin143.shtml
" In analyzing data from the U.S. Department of Education, University of Georgia sociologist Richard M. Ingersoll learned that approximately 28 percent of all high school math teachers lack even the equivalent of a college minor in math. In Alaska, that number is greater than 50 percent! Eighteen percent of all science teachers are similarly deficient in their preparation. Further, many of those educators who are certified to teach science are certified to teach in an area of science different from the one they are teaching. For example, a teacher certified to teach earth science may be teaching biology.
Texas's Teacher Recruitment and Retention Study found the situation in their junior high schools even worse. Thirty-nine percent of their seventh and eighth grade math teachers and one out of every three science teachers were not certified to teach those subjects.
Out-of-field teaching is not an aberration, and it is not restricted to only a few subjects. Nationwide, students in one of five classes in U.S. secondary schools have teachers with neither a major nor a minor in the subject. In schools whose students come from low-income households, the percentage of teachers teaching out of their field is much higher. "
And there is much more in the article on this topic.
December 19, 2008 06:19 PM
tracebooks - thank you for you comments - I tend to agree with your reasoning completely
Report
December 18, 2008 02:03 PM
look here for help http://www.chancelitton.com/?p=164
http://justenough.wordpress.com/2007/08/26/considering-homeschooling-curriculum/
http://www.leah.org/articles/considering.html
6 Vital Question To Ask Yourself When Considering Homeschooling
http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/6-Vital-Question-To-Ask-Yourself-When-Considering-Homeschooling/330078
http://homeschool.lifetips.com/faq/23345/0/how-do-i-determine-grades-for-my-kids/index.html
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081201163049AAY4yf8
http://www.syl.com/articles/homeschoolinginyourhomeisitrightforyouandyourchild.html
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 03:54 PM
DON'T DO IT! Free public education for everyone is one of the greatest things about our country! Schools need to be encouraged to improve, they will never be good enough, but should always be striving to do more. Pulling students out has the opposite effect. There are hundreds of thousands of dedicated, hard working, innovative teachers in this country, who love their job. Sure you may come across a few teachers that are not where they should be, but the words of wisdom my Dad always laid on me if I tried to blame a teacher for my grades always come back to me... "The best teacher in the world can't make you learn, and the worst teacher in the world can't keep you from learning", he was a high school principal. All parents should be home schooling from the time their child is born in addition to sending them to public school!
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 04:23 PM
I teach a large number of home-schooled kids through the miracle of the Internet. If you want to see a good model for this, there is an Ontario, Canada school that can give you some great information at www.virtualhighschool.com
And just so you know, I don't work for them. I teach for a public school board that has a successful online education initiative.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 06:28 PM
I have homeschooled my three kids their entire lives. My oldest is 12. I have helped dozens of people start homeschooling through my role as a mentor and county contact for my state's homeschooling organization, both volunteer roles. First you need to check with your state's homeschooling laws. You can find this information either through NHEN.org or HSLDA.org .
After you've followed the law in regards to the legality of setting up your school, you need to next figure out your homeschooling style. I've written a comprehensive Quick Start guide on figuring out your child's learning style and picking an educational style that matches that, and then a curriculum/supplies within that style. That's it in a nutshell. You can find reviews on educational styles at www.thehomeschoollibrary.com, and then reviews of curricula that place them within those styles.
For example, if you determine that your child is a hands-on learner (no wonder they didn't do well sitting behind a desk all day), then you might decide that Unit Studies are a good style for you. So you check at the Homeschool Library reviews, and narrow it down to Konos or The Weaver. There are literally hundreds of curricula written especially for homeschoolers at this point, so it helps to have a way to narrow it down.
Finally, add in "extra curriculars". The socialization myth is just that, a myth. Most homeschoolers will have sports, music lessons, or other activities and clubs where their children see the same kids on a regular basis. There are even field trip groups where they get the group rate, just like schools, to see otherwise expensive attractions. And there are all kinds of classes and co-ops, too, so you don't necessarily have to be your child's only teacher.
Most homeschoolers do get loads of diversity, just by participating in everyday life instead of being in a room all day with only their same-age peers from their zip code. Just a trip to the grocery can have kids encountering people from all around the globe in many areas, and certainly of a wider age range than they'd interact with at school. So this is really not a concern unless you intend that they never venture out of their bedrooms. JUST a JOKE, folks!
Find yourself support, not only in your area, but online. There are many good support groups for all kinds of people, from single parents, to people homeschooling kids with special needs, to various flavors of religious homeschoolers.
Finally, teach them life skills. So many kids anymore graduate unable to take care of the work of day-to-day living: unable to do laundry, cook, or balance a checkbook. People are actually forming clubs to teach each other these skills.
Our experience:
Gifted kids with 1)sensory integration disorder; 2) ADHD and 3) just very bright. None of them a good fit for mass education.
Source(s):
8 years' experience; in-depth college pre-law trial practice course in which the topic was education in America; contact with scores of homeschooling families; extensive reading
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 18, 2008 07:23 PM
In response to update, our experience:
12 y.o son. is doing high school level work in all areas but math, which will be started in January. Has done well in sports;earns own money; has many friends in neighborhood and through activities. Self-confident enough to pursue pre-professional ballet. Will likely be starting college early on scholarships (already has one).
9 y.o. DD is doing jr. high level work. Again, very athletic, very social; very creative; earns own money; has performed with two professional ballet companies
3 y.o. can read and has completed most Kindergarten work; has several friends at her three activities--none in neighborhood near her age but plays with siblings' friends too
Report
12 y.o son. is doing high school level work in all areas but math, which will be started in January. Has done well in sports;earns own money; has many friends in neighborhood and through activities. Self-confident enough to pursue pre-professional ballet. Will likely be starting college early on scholarships (already has one).
9 y.o. DD is doing jr. high level work. Again, very athletic, very social; very creative; earns own money; has performed with two professional ballet companies
3 y.o. can read and has completed most Kindergarten work; has several friends at her three activities--none in neighborhood near her age but plays with siblings' friends too
December 19, 2008 12:42 AM
I personally just think it's easier to move to a better district. But besides that, make sure your kid maintains connections to kids his age, and make sure you do enough to prep your kid for college. If you can afford it, pay for a tutor or have your kid take some community college classes.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 19, 2008 07:49 AM
My two bits on this: Consider the personality of whoever the teacher-parent is going to be and the child's personality. How do they mesh. Look at it realistically not how you would want it to be. IF this combination is going to be one of peace and positive energy go for it. If it is going to be a constant battle or regular battle go find another way path of education. Consider closely WHY you want to homeschool is there another option to reach those goals. This is not and should not be an easy solution. Personally, it should be a last resort. Sorry folks I don't think everyone is able to teach. You may be able to help with homework somewhat, but teach from scratch well it really isn't in everyone. Just because you learned it one way doesn't mean your child will learn it the same way or even completely. I better stop here... It really is a tough decision, take your time and look deep inside and at all possible angles.
Source(s):
My personal struggles with this decision.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 19, 2008 05:46 PM
Honestly, I don't think homeschooling is a wise choice. School is as much about social interaction and learning life skills by experience as it is about classroom learning. By keeping kids at home, you are denying them many learning opportunities that we as parents simply can't give them. If the public school your kids are attending is not a good fit, then find a private, charter, or alternative school that works for your children. Homeschooling only makes sense to me as an interim solution or as a solution of last resort.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 19, 2008 09:15 PM
There is a great project going on in the UK called Schome (not school nor home) led by Peter Twinning and team. "Schome is going to be a new form of educational system designed to overcome the problems within current education systems. It will meet the needs of society and individuals in the twenty-first century and will be a system which values and supports people learning throughout their lives."
You may want to check out their work on their site and wiki.
Source(s):
Interview with Peter Twinning:
http://www.futurelab.org.uk/projects/teachers-as-innovators/stories-of-prac...
Schome site: http://www.schome.ac.uk/
Schome Wiki: http://www.schome.ac.uk/wiki/Main_Page
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 01:40 AM
You may want to check into online charter schools for your state. They generally require you to register a few months before school starts in the fall, but since they are able to get the tax $$$ for your child they are generally free and provide you with the entire curriculum. Some online charter schools will even provide your child with a computer, printer, internet service, etc. at no cost to you.
Source(s):
I currently home school my 4 children.
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 01:45 AM
I created a delicious site for use on a project I was heading at work. (I am an educational consultant in real life.) I hope you will enjoy the links that are there and that they might help.
http://delicious.com/discoveryea
Permalink | Report
Reply
December 20, 2008 06:01 AM
I didn't seem to see the link http://www.hslda.org/
Not only do they protect you if the school or truancy comes to your home you can get discounts on things with your membership
http://homeschoolers.multiply.com/
Homeschooling 1 year today! Whoohoo!
Good Luck
Permalink | Report
Reply
Answer this Question
Related Questions
Anyone have any suggestions about how to go about buying a twitter account?
At a Christmas gift exchange at work you are regifted a present you had given to some...
Did someone commit suicide on the Wizzard of Oz? Why? Is there any video proof?
Hi,I've been watching the BBC series "Berlin" with Matt Frei,is there any wahy I can ...
At a Christmas gift exchange at work you are regifted a present you had given to some...
Did someone commit suicide on the Wizzard of Oz? Why? Is there any video proof?
Hi,I've been watching the BBC series "Berlin" with Matt Frei,is there any wahy I can ...
Ask a Question
Buy Mahalo Dollars with Credit Card or PayPal
Top Members
Most Popular Tags
Categories
- Anonymous
-
Arts & Design
-
Beauty & Style
-
Books & Authors
-
Business
-
Cars & Transportation
-
Consumer Electronics
- Coupons Deals
-
Education
-
Entertainment
-
Environment
-
Fitness
-
Food & Drink
- From Email
- From Iphone
- From Twitter
-
Health
-
History
-
Hobbies
-
Home & Garden
-
How Tos
-
Humor
-
Jobs
-
Legal
-
Local
-
Love & Relationships
-
Mahalo Answers Community
-
Money
-
Music
-
News
-
NSFW
-
Parenting
-
Pets
-
Science & Mathematics
-
Services
-
Shopping
-
Social Science
-
Society & Culture
-
Sports
-
Technology & Internet
-
Travel
-
Video Games
Welcome New Members
- sumaanand, November 29, 2009 06:48 AM
- staceysmith, November 29, 2009 06:35 AM
- micky, November 29, 2009 06:33 AM
- busybee0609, November 29, 2009 06:14 AM
- richardseymour, November 29, 2009 06:10 AM
Mahalo Dollars are the currency of Mahalo Answers.
Each Mahalo Dollar costs $1.
Once you earn more than 40 Mahalo Dollars, you can request to be paid via PayPal. Each Mahalo Dollar is currently worth $0.75 when paid out via PayPal. Learn More
It's unhealthy to be around the same five people all day everyday
Especially when those people are your family
You need a chance for escape
You need friends.