In the United States alone, there are around two million students being homeschooled, with the number growing each year. It’s becoming clear to parents that homeschooling can be a great opportunity to provide an outstanding education to their children.
Homeschooling puts control back into your hands, so you can find the materials and methods of teaching best suited to how your children learn. Is homeschooling right for your family? In this piece, we’ll cover the factors to consider when you make this decision:
Classroom structure
One of the biggest appeals for parents to homeschool their children is the ability to create a classroom that truly complements the way their children learn best. Generally, parents are able to create lesson plans and daily activities that fit with the learning styles their children need.
But there are state requirements that families must meet, and parents must be prepared to keep strict records and fill out the necessary paperwork for homeschooling.
Responsibilities
No parent should overlook the responsibility of taking over their children’s education. It’s a massive undertaking, and it requires time and immense dedication to ensure they are prepared for higher education and life after school. It also means you’re responsible for making all of the big decisions about their education as well, so parents can’t be afraid to make tough choices if necessary.
Don’t be deterred by this, because every homeschool classroom is different. If you want your child to have the care and attention a homeschool classroom provides, but you yourself aren’t able to fully commit yourself to teaching each day, consider partnering with a homeschool organization to alleviate some of the responsibility and find a balance that works for you.
Flexibility
Homeschooling is great for families because it gives you the power and control to truly tailor the subject matter in the ways your children learn best. You get to spend more time with them, making their lessons enjoyable and exciting in the process.
Too much flexibility, however, could make it hard for your child to stay focused. Parents should work to create a daily consistent schedule, leaving room for a little flexibility based on their child’s needs.
Socialization
One of the biggest concerns parents have for homeschooling is limited opportunities for socialization. Making friends and socializing is critical to your child’s development, and homeschooling may limit their contact with their peers.
But there are plenty of ways for parents to help their homeschooled children meet new people and make friends. Seek out other homeschoolers in your area and create study groups with your children. Encourage your child to pick up a hobby or join a club sport. There are plenty of opportunities to socialize outside of the traditional school route.
Access to resources
Depending on how you structure your homeschool classroom, you may face limited access to federal resources you may need. Partnering with a homeschooling organization may be a solution to help you find the materials you need.
At the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools, we see firsthand the impact a quality homeschool education can have on a child. The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools has been offering expert advice and academic planning for homeschool families for the last 30 years, and we can help you discover the best path for your student. Reach out today!