So, You've Decided To Homeschool
- By Janet McCormick
- Published 04/10/2008
Janet McCormick
As a mother, chef, business owner and author of "10-minute meals", I have something to say. I feel like I've lived several lives though I'm a young 41-year-old. A checkered past is an understatement when describing my experiences. To say the least, I've gained some insight along the way. I crawled out of an abusive relationship with a famous song writer. I started a catering business, opened a small cafe and wrote a cookbook. ultimatebreadpudding.com 10-minutemeals.com
I have been around the block a time or two with women and men who are curious about home education. The responses I encounter are a myriad of emotions ranging from down right fearful to excitement and wonderment. Then you come to the doubters and defenders. Sometimes the mere mention of your choice to homeschool seems to shout that you are attacking their choice to public school. When you are faced with this dilemma and you will come across this, it's best to have a short paragraph that summarizes your decision to home educate. My reasons for educating at home may not be top on your list of reasons. Either way, I have a few to mention.
No one knows your child better than you.
My oldest boy tried to talk at 3 months of age. He made no sense but he sputtered away as if someone understood him. By 14 months, his little vocabulary was quite impressive. He had a fascination with sports announcers and often I found him mimicking and commentating events on television. I told him at age 4 he was a journalist. You tell them what they are and they'll become that. The same is true if you tell them they're messy, lazy, contrary, etc., they'll become that. The power of positive reinforcement is an amazing thing. My son is taking classes now in journalism. He aspires to be in sports news or weather forecasting. We just visited the journalism department at a nearby college. It looks like Ohio State University is his top choice.
Individualizing Course Work Is Your Choice.
My youngest child is extremely clever. However,
he doesn't grasp concepts as quickly as others. Public School is great for the 5 students who learn quickly. In a classroom filled with 30 students, where does that leave the other 25. They're left to their own devices. I did not want my children to grow up feeling embarrassed and eventually withdrawing because they couldn't catch-on as quickly as the next guy. My oldest son is the opposite. He is an auditory learner. He can hear it once and it sticks. He needed new material continually.
Do I Worry About Socialization?
Of course I did, that's why I homeschooled. I get asked that question continually. My response is always the same. I don't think I need to tell you about what goes on in the schools. It's in the news enough. I'm convinced bad behavior is contagious. You, as the parent are the best role model for your child. If you want your child to display good character, then demonstrate good character. Manners are best taught by example. As is, any positive behavior.
There are local theaters and local chapters of homeschool associations that provide plenty of socialization for your child. We were involved in many church activities.
I Get To Tie Heart Strings With My Children!
I will always be grateful for the time I spent with my children. Each day was a new adventure. We created memories that will live on in their hearts long after I pass away. I didn't do everything right. I made many mistakes. I loved them and they felt loved, not because I told them I loved them, but because I showed them when I made time for them.
Homeschooling has less to do with books and figuring but more to do with a way of living.
No one knows your child better than you.
My oldest boy tried to talk at 3 months of age. He made no sense but he sputtered away as if someone understood him. By 14 months, his little vocabulary was quite impressive. He had a fascination with sports announcers and often I found him mimicking and commentating events on television. I told him at age 4 he was a journalist. You tell them what they are and they'll become that. The same is true if you tell them they're messy, lazy, contrary, etc., they'll become that. The power of positive reinforcement is an amazing thing. My son is taking classes now in journalism. He aspires to be in sports news or weather forecasting. We just visited the journalism department at a nearby college. It looks like Ohio State University is his top choice.
Individualizing Course Work Is Your Choice.
My youngest child is extremely clever. However,
Do I Worry About Socialization?
Of course I did, that's why I homeschooled. I get asked that question continually. My response is always the same. I don't think I need to tell you about what goes on in the schools. It's in the news enough. I'm convinced bad behavior is contagious. You, as the parent are the best role model for your child. If you want your child to display good character, then demonstrate good character. Manners are best taught by example. As is, any positive behavior.
There are local theaters and local chapters of homeschool associations that provide plenty of socialization for your child. We were involved in many church activities.
I Get To Tie Heart Strings With My Children!
I will always be grateful for the time I spent with my children. Each day was a new adventure. We created memories that will live on in their hearts long after I pass away. I didn't do everything right. I made many mistakes. I loved them and they felt loved, not because I told them I loved them, but because I showed them when I made time for them.
Homeschooling has less to do with books and figuring but more to do with a way of living.
