I can’t even count how many times I’ve been asked which preschool my child is enrolled in. When I mention that I’m homeschooling my soon-to-be five-year-old, I often receive puzzled looks. As a mother of four, I’ve navigated the homeschooling journey on and off for years. The most common question I get from skeptics is, “But what about socialization?”
Each time we opted for homeschooling, it was for unique reasons. I withdrew one child from public school after a prolonged struggle to get her the support she needed for her learning disability. Another child stayed home to better fit our family’s schedule. This time, my decision to homeschool my preschooler is purely my choice. Yes, you read that right.
My daughter will start kindergarten next fall, and she will be among the oldest in her class, missing the birthday cutoff by just a few weeks. This brings me joy, as my years of parenting have shown me that older kids in a class tend to be more mature and better prepared for school life academically, emotionally, and socially.
The thought of sending my child to preschool during a pandemic is unsettling. I’ve seen the images, and they look exhausting. (No offense to the amazing teachers out there!) I don’t want her to be separated from her peers, wearing masks, and dealing with constant quarantines, especially with the Delta variant still prevalent. I support COVID precautions, but I want my child to experience preschool in an ideal setting. At home, I can provide ample playtime, no masks, and a reduced risk of exposure.
This past year has been challenging for our family, especially since I’m currently battling breast cancer for the second time. Before my diagnosis and the surge of COVID, I envisioned a year filled with outdoor play, errands, and teaching her pre-kindergarten skills like writing and using scissors at her own pace. Instead, my older kids were often learning remotely, and my days were consumed by cancer treatments. It was draining, and I felt robbed of precious moments.
Now, I want to dedicate this upcoming school year to my youngest child. She has always shared our home with her three older siblings, and this year is a unique opportunity for just the two of us. With only a year left before she steps into a kindergarten classroom, I’m committed to making it meaningful.
From my experience teaching college writing and homeschooling my other children, I know that learning happens in many forms. Preschool education isn’t solely about letters and numbers; it also encompasses physical health, mental well-being, and the freedom to be creative and curious. I’m eager to provide my child with a holistic learning experience, not just an academic one.
As my youngest child, we have no plans to expand our family further. So, yes, this decision is partly about my relationship with her. However, I am also confident in my ability to homeschool her and don’t worry that she will miss out by not attending a traditional preschool.
Soon enough, she’ll be off to kindergarten with a big yellow bus and a backpack that’s too large, filled with a lunchbox and folder. I’ll be teary-eyed and anxious, just like other parents, but until then, we’ll enjoy our time together at home. Homeschooling allows us to learn at our own pace instead of adhering to a rigid schedule.
Regarding the common concern about socialization, let me clarify: socialization isn’t merely about interacting with peers. According to the dictionary, it involves engaging with others and acquiring societal values and habits. True socialization occurs when children interact with individuals of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds. With three siblings at home, my child receives ample social interaction daily. So, I’m not worried. Remember, school isn’t the only place where kids can learn to socialize.
I’ve ordered a few preschool-level books and materials, and I plan to read to my daughter daily. We’ll take nature walks, and I’ll encourage her as she rides her bike or climbs trees. If you think I sound a bit unconventional, that’s fine with me. I’m committed to making her final preschool year filled with joy and freedom—an experience we’ll cherish forever.
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Summary:
In this article, Jamie Thompson shares her decision not to enroll her youngest child in preschool this year, opting instead for homeschooling. She reflects on her experiences with her children, emphasizing the importance of socialization and holistic learning. With a background in teaching and personal circumstances, she aims to create a meaningful year for her daughter before she enters kindergarten.