Jan 5, 2007

My Decision to Homeschool

Homeschooling was not really an option. I remember quite clearly the discussion I had with my husband when our oldest was only a baby. We were looking ahead, wondering where we would be when the little cherub turned five, and where he would go it school. Barring a miracle, we knew private school would be beyond our reach, even five years down the road. My husband and I were both public school education and had a fair experience, and were open to that for our own children. I recall clearly stating, "Well, I know I will never homeschool!"

Flash foward five years. We were right that private school was out of our financial realm. Our son was very bright, frequently bored in preschool, sweet, and going through an intense separation anxiety. Then I found out that all the kindergartens in our school district were going to full-day schedules. Homeschooling became an option for me, much to my surprise. I felt that my son needed another year at home before he was ready to be gone all day, five days a week. The little tyke hated being away even for the 2 mornings a week he was at preschool.

My husband was very supportive. Both our extended familes were very supportive. After some research, I made the final decision to homeschool for one year.

Well, homeschooling is not easy, but it is addictive! I discovered so many advantages to learning at home for my children, my family, and myself. One year led to another, then another, then another. We are in our fourth year of homeschooling our three sons.

There are days I love it, days I hate it, days I feel like a champ, days I feel like a failure. There can be incredible pressure in homechooling, and incredible freedom.

If you are considering homeschooling, take a look at the series of articles we will be having on this subject. The first one is out and ready, "Considering Homeschooling". Keep your eye out for more over the next few days. Please email me if you have specific questions about homeschooling, or feel free to start a discussion.