Should I Give Homeschool a Try?

I suggest you read "The Homeschooling Handbook" by Mary Griffith. She outlines all the different issues you might want to consider, all the different types of homeschooling that are out there, how to find like-minded support if you decide to homeschool (because that is key, finding some support), etc. etc. It is a great guide!

I'm thinking about it and getting prepared for what to do when my son hits school age, so I don't have any anecdotes about THAT yet, really, but I was homeschooled during first, third, fourth, and fifth grades myself. And I learned SO MUCH MORE when I was at home than I EVER did at school. And I was not lonely or isolated (the most common fear outsiders have for homeschoolers), although I didn't see people who were the exact same age as me that often. I consider that a perk, though, because I think it's kind of weird how much public school promotes the idea that you can't really play with/relate to people outside of your "peer group." I certainly could and did and am a better person for it.

Good luck with whatever you decide!

S....I think it is great that you are considering home schooling your children. What a blessing it is to be able to do that. Our children went to Christian school instead, but I did consider keeping them home and teaching them myself many many years ago when it wasn't as popular. Now so many families home school their children. I have had several friends over the years that have and their children seem to be much more advanced and well disciplined. Currently I have 2 sons and daughter-in-laws that are home schooling their children. They haven't had anything negative to say about it. They have them involved with their local home school groups. The children are also involved in ministries at their church, so they do not lack being with other children. There are so many fun things you will be able to do with them. I prayed just now that God would give you clear directions on what you should do. If it is to home school, you will not regret it! May God continue to bless you and your family.

About me: I'm a 54 year old grandmother of 12.

Hi, I dont home school, but I can suggest a forum for you to discuss with other moms who do ... it is on Triangle Mommies at http://www.trianglemommies.com/ If you are not in this area, maybe there is a discussion group near you. Here is an excerpt from a recent post...

The Homeschooling Forum is alive and booming these days with chatter about our new preschool co-op! TriangleMommies Sharing Hearts And Resources for Education, or TM SHARE for short, is a preschool cooperative that meets every first and third Tuesdays of the month with focused lessons, songs, and activities. As a cooperative, members will all take turns planning lessons and activities according to the monthly selected theme. With a starting date of September 2nd, the members hope to follow the traditional school calendar so that the children will be on the same schedule as their regular schooling peers.

For the fall, TM SHARE planners have chosen the following themes: Cycle of Life, Animals, Holidays and Celebrations, and Safety. In addition to the monthly meetings, the cooperative has selected field trips that will be open to ALL ages. Scheduled field trips are as follows:

September: Bug F est & Maple View Farms Tour
October: NC Zoo
November: Ken's Korn Maze and Pumpkin Patch & Pullen Park
December: Police/Fire Station & Bond Park- water and nature safety.

Good luck! D.
http://bizformomsonline.blogspot.com/

There are so many pro's and con's to this. I think all and all, it is an individuals decision based on your own family's needs.

I am a teacher, so my bottom line for me is to have my kids learn in a school setting. There are SOOOOO many more things that are required of kids to learn in school that you can't even imagine. I feel that (no offense) parents without an education degree and/or all the training we recieve can not benefit the child as much as what a school can offer. Now, if I can afford it I prefer private school as to public in most cases also.

Again though, there are many pro's and con's so it is really up to the most important aspects to your family that are worth considering. I cannot stress that enough, no judgement should ever be made, and your decision is looking out for your children's interest first. Maybe you have an education degree, maybe your child is always being bullied on the bus, has had all horrible teachers that never make an effort or respond to emails, maybe your child has eight kids his own age in your neighborhood, a soccer team he loves, and a Sunday school class that is great, etc.

Good luck with your decision and my God bless the path you proceed in. :)
Amanda

I am wondering the same thing!! My son is really struggling in school and I am considering it myself. I personally think if you and your husband are on board with it then go for it. Now days in school it is so strict and kids can't be kid's!! I just gotta convince my husband to get on board. I just posted on here for anyone with information!! Good luck and keep me posted if you decide to.