Homeschooling is not an easy task but it is impossible or too complicated either. It requires dedication, organization and lots of love (which is easy). Deciding to homeschool is not always an easy decision to make because it requires a lot of time and commitment from the parents. If you are considering homeschooling (which you should absolutely consider!, see our article on why homeschooling is better for your kids) here are some points to think about that can help you decide what is best for you and your kids.
1. It is highly recommended that you read a lot about homeschooling. On the internet there are many articles on advice, ideas, methods, curricula, among others, that will be of great help when making a decision if this is something you will be able to do.
2. Do not allow yourself to be influenced by negative ideas of other people who do not know or had any experience with homeschooling. Seek out people who has home schooled to learn of their experience to for a better idea of what it implies. If you do not have any friends that have been or are home schooled you can find people online to talk too.
3. If you are going to educate at home, do not bring the school to your home. On the contrary, give your child the freedom to learn what they need without the usual pressures and restrictions that exist in schools that can suppress the natural desire to learn. In a no pressure learning environment your child will enjoy learning and at their own pace.
4. Avoid anxiety and stress because of the prospect of starting to educate at home. It is something new that will help to achieve balance in your family life and any family member can participate freely in an atmosphere of peace, harmony and respect.
5. If in the process of educating your child you feel stressed or overwhelmed then take a break for a few days to recharge the batteries and then resume. It is quite common and normal to feel tired at times.
6. It is a good idea to be a part of a support group with other families who home school so that you may share experiences and tips with other parents and your children can do the same with other home schooled kids. You can even arrange extracurricular activities with these other families such as educational trips.
7. You can also enroll your child in various classes that complement your education, such as sports, music classes, dance, theater, art and so on. Talk with you children and see what interests them and find some classes based on what they like.
8. Educating at home is a decision that requires a lot, but it is also a great blessing, so enjoy every moment with your children and get the most out of it.
Here is a great interview Luis Fernando Mises did with Dayna Martin on the negative effects regular schools can have on your kids:
I would love to hear what your experiences or concerns regarding homeschooling are! Please put them in the comments below.
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