by Kendra Songer

Created on: May 16, 2008   Last Updated: November 02, 2010

Parents have many reasons for wanting to homeschool their children. Some are worried about their children's safety in the public schools or dissatisfied with the education their children are receiving. Some have children that have become rebellious and are hoping that homeschooling will turn them around. Some can't even put it into words, it just doesn't feel right or feels like something is missing. Whatever your reason you need to be sure this is the right path before you begin (especially if you're pulling your children out of school).

Be informed. There are lots of myths about homeschooling and you may have some misconceptions about what it's really like. Books such as Dumbing us Down by John Taylor Gotto, So You're Thinking of Homeschooling by Lisa Welchel or Home Grown Kids by Raymond Moore give information and statistics on home schooling. If possible talk to several families who homeschool. Be aware that every homeschool family does it a little differently. There are families who make their own bread, sew their own clothes, don't watch TV and homeschool from 8-3:30 and there are families who are the direct opposite. Don't let one family, or one bad thing you've heard determine whether you will choose this or not. Likewise don't let a very passionate homeschooler convince you to pull your kids out of school tomorrow because she loves homeschooling so much.

Count the cost. Is there a cost to homeschooling? Yes, there are sacrifices to be made. Homeschooling is a lifestyle and it will impact every other area of your life: housekeeping, income, free time, your children's friendships, involvement in other activities and your social life. Be aware though there is also a cost to putting your children in school. Homeschoolers give up a lot of leisure time, but they give it up to spend more time with their children and to make a difference in their kids lives. They believe the benefits outweigh the cost.

Get prepared. The best way to succeed in homeschooling is to be prepared. Being prepared can help overcome what may seem like obstacles. This doesn't necessarily mean having lesson plans set up or the right curriculum picked out. Start by having a vision. What do you want for your family, what is your goal? If you don't have a firm belief that this is the right thing to do, then you will waver under stress (and there will be stress). I saw the Angel in the Marble by Chris & Ellyn Davis has a chapter on teaching approaches that can help you determine what

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>