Choosing to homeschool can stem from a variety of motivations. Perhaps you find the conventional school system lacking or maybe homeschooling aligns perfectly with your family’s desire to explore the world. You might even be someone who spent so much time volunteering in school that it felt like a full-time job (and let’s be honest, indulging in a cocktail at PTA meetings wasn’t the most accepted behavior). As a homeschooling parent, I often feel misrepresented, as if I fit into a stereotype of being narrow-minded or overly conservative. This perception is frustrating, especially considering our diverse reasons for choosing this path.
Here are just a few of the many reasons we love homeschooling:
- Alarm Clocks: Ugh, who likes those? There’s nothing worse than being jolted awake by an alarm. I still rise early to savor the peace, watching the chaos of minivans zoom by, filled with frazzled parents and upset kids. It’s a comical routine that I enjoy from the comfort of my pajamas with a warm cup of coffee. Imagine a life where alarms are only necessary for catching a flight!
- Travel Freedom: We can travel whenever we choose. Those delightful off-season rates? Yes, please! I once heard someone say their kids enjoy the hustle and bustle of Disney when it’s crowded—really? Who wants to spend hours in line? Our field trips are flexible and never start at the crack of dawn. If a destination disappoints, we simply opt for lunch (and I might even enjoy a glass of wine!).
- Pajama Learning: My kids can complete their assignments in their pajamas without worrying about fashion trends. Back-to-school shopping for us means a fun day of picking out comfy PJs, allowing them to relax while learning alongside our classroom pet.
- Authentic Work: The assignments they submit are genuinely theirs. It’s pointless for me to do the work for them! I used to marvel at elaborate projects from kids at school; it’s refreshing to see my children take pride in their original creations. (By the way, we don’t do homework unless someone has really tested my patience, and I absolutely do not pack lunches—jealous much?)
- Engaging Discussions: We delve into global topics, exploring cultures, religions, and yes, food—always the food! Sometimes, we even have the opportunity to visit those countries in person, which is an incredible field trip experience.
- Political Education: Recently, we attended a political debate where our oldest, Ava, could hear both sides and form her own opinions. It was eye-opening for her to learn that it’s okay not to like either candidate!
- Immersive Learning: I believe in teaching kids about Mexico on Cinco de Mayo while enjoying a meal at a Mexican restaurant—complete with a margarita in hand. Plus, helping with household chores like vacuuming earns them an “A” in physical education!
- Celebrating Uniqueness: We never pressure our kids to conform. As Ava once wrote in her blog, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” They are free to embrace their individuality, and trust me, they truly are exceptional (no margarita influence here!).
The world is our classroom, and we wholeheartedly embrace it! (P.S. Some days, cocktail hour may start a bit earlier, but my mom friends never judge.)
This article was originally published on June 13, 2011.
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Summary: Homeschooling offers a plethora of advantages, allowing families to break free from the constraints of traditional education. From the freedom of travel to the comfort of learning in pajamas, homeschooling fosters creativity and individuality in children. It encourages genuine exploration of the world, making education a fun and immersive experience.