This past January I decided on homeschooling my children. In all honesty, I foresaw the decision to homeschool my 3rd-grade and kindergarten aged children as a challenge. After much prayer, I decided that the timing was right and our circumstances made it possible. So here we are at the beginning of the second semester of the school year, getting accustomed to a new approach to schooling, with many new possibilities.
In contrast, I will say that in deciding to take the leap of faith to homeschool my children, was tough because I truly like their previous school, which was an area chartered academy. Even though the school is great, I felt that I could provide an enhanced approach to their education while edifying who they are as individuals as well. I like to call it a dynamic approach in that it’s character, relationship, intellect and artistry building.
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As stated earlier, this is indeed a challenge. However, it is one of the most rewarding I have ever embarked upon. There are some that would disagree or even look at me sideways. Then there are those who completely understand where I am coming from. I’m proud to homeschool my sons and they understand that it’s no walk in the park and that it does require self-motivation, dedication and a will to succeed. Some days are better than others and in all actuality, we are learning together.
I strongly believe that as parents we must encourage our children to be themselves. I feel that it is imperative to nurture their natural talents and childhood dreams as they learn life and an education. We must listen to our children as they follow their innocent heart’s desires. And in doing that, we have the amazing God-given opportunity to lead them in a way that directs them towards a destiny of promise.
Train a child up in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)
The beauty of being a parent is that we are responsible for instilling values in our children that have the ability to last a lifetime. Moreover and MORE than anything, I feel that in teaching our children about the Bible, faith, and hope (in an educational/life lessons format) creates a driving force within them at an early age that in turn serves as a divine protective barrier. I don’t think this is something that they can get at the neighborhood schools, so I’m glad to make it part of our curriculum with homeschooling.
Personal bonuses to homeschooling with faith:
- Peace of mind and safety (when taking into account the state of the world today)
- Creativity that is freely expressed (from what they wear, to what they choose to do for extracurricular)
- An early sense of responsibility and integrity
- Judgment free zone
- Individualized learning plans (I believe each child learns at a different pace and in different ways)
- Teaching about faith (I can flourish their knowledge of TRUTH)
- Higher level learning (you’d be surprised at the way their brain actually understands complex ideas/lessons)
- Unlimited socialization (we can freely explore now more than ever while engaging with others AND learning something new)
- Extended history (we have a history like no other and it extends well beyond the school-based history and social studies books)
Overall, I am teaching my 9 and 5-year-old to be thought leaders and life learners as they express themselves individually and creatively. They love it. They are happy. They are thriving. This means the most to me. Therefore, for now, homeschooling works for us.
How do you think parents can overcome the fear/hesitation of homeschooling their kids?
9 Comments
Christine St.Vil
February 23, 2016 at 8:09 AMVeronica, I love this post. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. When we made the decision, we had all types of fears but ultimately knew we were making the right choice for us. We are in our third year and we are still learning and growing, adjusting as needed. I love your personal bonuses and can relate to them 🙂
Veronica S
February 23, 2016 at 9:19 AMThank you so much Christine! It is very reassuring to know that this approach to our children’s education is one of constant development. Knowing that you guys are still learning & growing provides a sense of peace for me too & you’re so right that the choice to embark upon homeschooling is one that is the best choice for our family. So glad we overcame the initial fears & I’m also happy to know that you can relate as well. ♡
Roslyne
February 23, 2016 at 8:27 AMVeronica, kudos to you for taking on the challenge of homeschooling. I agree that it can be a very rewarding experience for both parents and children- when done correctly. As a clinical social worker employed in a public school setting, I have definitely seen homeschooling work well for families and the children have done well beyond high school. I love that you are infusing an enhanced knowledge of history and culture as that is definitely one of my criticisms of the public school’s current educational curriculum. Continued success to you and your children!
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Veronica S
February 23, 2016 at 9:26 AMI really appreciate your kind words Roslyne. Making sure to do it the right way was an initial fear, but it’s amazing the sense of ease – that comes into play once you truly begin to see the child loves it while flourshishing. I totally love being able to infuse history & culture. It feels absolutely rewarding that they are getting a sense of something that I didn’t get in my traditional schooling. They just light up when learning how culturally rich we truly are!
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DiSheen
February 23, 2016 at 2:44 PMVeronica that post was right on time. I’ve been considering homeschooling my son at the conclusion of this school year. I would love to hear more about your journey. God bless you!
Veronica
February 24, 2016 at 5:21 PMHello DiSheen! Thank you so much! Feel free to reach out with any questions, I’d be happy to share as we venture along this journey. Researching and talking with trusted sources/ families that have been homeschooling will help greatly too! I pray you come to a resolve that both you and your son enjoy. I’ll definitely be sharing more from us.
Tanya B
February 23, 2016 at 6:09 PMVeronica, I homeschooled two of my kids a few years back and I miss it so much. I love that we were able to travel and spend extended time at grandma’s house. Kudos to you and thanks for sharing your story.
Veronica
February 24, 2016 at 5:25 PMOh wow Tanya, that’s sweet…did your children return back to traditional school or have they went on to college? I love the freedom so much and it just feels good to be able to witness your child’s growth and love of learning. We can make it fun when we are mindful of our child’s learning style. Such a great feeling!
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