A Look at Home Schooling

Muslim families are taking the education of their children into their own hands. Many Muslims are choosing to educate their children at home instead of taking their chances with the public school system.

Not too long ago, in 1980, home schooling was illegal in 30 states. However, since 1993, home schooling has become legal in all 50 states. Home schooling has been rapidly growing in the United States and in the world. Experts estimate that approximately 700,000 to 2 million children are educated at home in the United States.

Since 1985, there has been a 15-20% increase per year in the rate of children being home schooled.

According to a study on home schooling in the United States which was released by the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) on March 23rd, students were shown to do remarkably well at every grade level. The study by the HSLDA, which was the largest study ever conducted on home schooling in the United States, also demonstrated that young home school children tested one grade higher than public school students of the same grade. The study also showed that by the eighth grade, home schoolers tested four grade levels higher than the national average.

Many parents cite several benefits to home schooling their children. Aside from the academic benefits, religious beliefs hold a highly decisive factor in choosing home school over the public school system. For Muslims, educating one’s child at home is believed by some as essential in fostering and implementing an Islamic way of life.

Ogie Lind has home schooled her two daughters, 15 year-old Yaasameen, and 12 year-old Laura for three and a half years. Lind cites three reasons for choosing home school. ``The first reason is because of our religion. Second is because we don’t have to miss prayers. And third is safety.’’ Since she has home schooled her two children, she has noticed an overall improvement in their attitudes. ``Home school is more safe. You can control your children, and find out your child’s personality. You also communicate more and spend quality time together,’’ said Lind.

The general reasons parents choose home school for their children over the public schools is perhaps summarized best under the Eleven Reasons To Raise Your Own Child provided by the Apple Blossom Contemplative Hermitage:

1. Let Your Child Obtain Superior and Genuine Learning
2. Let Your Child Obtain High Values
3. Let Your Child Develop High Character
4. Let Your Child Be a Child
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