Yesterday I wrote about the possibility of homeschooled children wanting to go to public school. I also gave you some questions you might want to ask should they bring up the subject. Likewise, many public schooled children approach their parents asking to be homeschooled. I want to talk about that today.
I read question after question on the internet with students asking how to convince their parents to let them homeschool. They cite being unable to focus in school and having social issues. They complain about school violence. Some say they feel they are wasting their time. Meanwhile, the parents know very little about homeschooling and what they have heard may not seem favorable. So what is a parent to do?
First, you need to listen to your child. They will tell you the reasons they want to homeschool, and what they think homeschooling will do for them. You as the parent will know your child well enough to decide if they are serious about homeschooling, of if homeschooling is a knee-jerk reaction to a single event or situation.
Second, consider the age and maturity of your child. This will determine how much time, effort, and/or money homeschooling will cost you. The younger they are, the more time and effort it will take. Older children will cost more money, and guidance.
Third, you will want to find out more about homeschooling. You may have preconceived notions about homeschooling that you need to address. You may never have thought about it before. Read, read, read everything you can get your hands on about homeschooling. Make sure the information you read is balanced. You will want pros and cons from people who have actually homeschooled.
Consider a trial period. Take the Christmas Holiday, or summer vacation to see if you and your child are up to the challenge. It if works out, and you are both satisfied, do a trial year. At this point, you can make your decision final and permanent.
*Have a question about homeschooling? Just ask.
*Want to know more about homeschooling? Start with the 2006 homeschool blog in review!
* Have you seen the homeschooling curriculum glossary?