I’m a homeschooling mom to three kids, and it’s a choice I’ve always envisioned for my family. My own experiences in school were rife with boredom and bullying, and my time as a summer teacher reinforced my decision. I once calculated the actual teaching time in a six-hour school day and realized it amounted to just two hours of instruction. That realization solidified my commitment to provide a more engaging educational experience for my children.
However, when I mention that I homeschool, I often encounter unsolicited opinions from others. It’s as if the floodgates open for judgment. Everyone seems to have the right answer regarding my kids’ education—except me.
What grade are your kids in?
You’d be surprised, but I don’t keep track of grades the traditional way. Instead, I focus on their individual progress. For instance, my 7-year-old can dive into books like The BFG and historical novels about the Revolutionary War. He grasps basic addition, struggles with subtraction, and can tackle multiplication. He can even recount historical events, like the Battle of the Brandywine. That’s what matters, right?
Aren’t you concerned about socialization?
Absolutely! Schools are often portrayed as the epitome of socialization, where kids only interact with their same-age peers. My children, however, engage with kids of various ages through skating lessons, co-ops, playdates, and kayaking classes. They have friends of different ages, and they learn to include one another, just like any group should. Isn’t that a more authentic form of socialization?
Is your choice about religion?
For some families, homeschooling is deeply tied to religious beliefs. While we appreciate our faith, that’s not our primary motivation. We do include catechism in our routine, allowing us to opt out of Sunday school, but it’s just a part of what we do. Secular homeschooling exists, and it’s a valid choice for many.
Don’t you know you’re privileged?
Yes, I recognize the privilege that allows me to homeschool. Not everyone has this opportunity, but that doesn’t mean I should conform to traditional school standards for my kids.
Aren’t you harming public education by opting out?
These are my children we’re discussing. I’m not willing to compromise their education for any political ideal. While I advocate for public education reform and participate in rallies, my priority is my kids’ education. I pay taxes that support public schools, which means I contribute to the system even if I’m not using it.
Homeschoolers are weird!
While this isn’t a question, I’ll respond anyway! Yes, my kids have unique interests—like knowing every word to Hamilton or being fascinated by Revolutionary War action figures. They enjoy their own shows and hobbies, and although they might not be aware of popular trends, like fidget spinners or Pokémon, they’re happy with their passions. It’s about embracing what makes them unique without the pressure of conformity.
How do you feel qualified to teach?
I hold nearly a doctoral degree in composition and rhetoric, which is essentially about teaching. If you’re not as qualified, there are plenty of resources—curricula, online courses, and unit studies available to help guide your homeschooling journey.
What does a typical day look like?
We dedicate time to learning, often diving into subjects like the Aeneid for history or tackling math problems. We wrap up our formal schooling in a couple of hours, leaving plenty of time for life beyond textbooks—like exploring nature, art projects, and just having fun together. Education isn’t just about academics; it’s about fostering creativity and real-life experiences.
In summary, homeschooling is not just about academics; it’s a lifestyle that allows for flexibility, creativity, and engagement with the world around us. As a family, we prioritize learning in ways that suit our unique needs and interests, cultivating an environment where my kids can thrive.
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