In recent times, phrases like “Homeschooling is so tough,” “I need a drink because I homeschool,” and “The homeschool life is no joke” have become common. Since the onset of the pandemic, many parents who previously critiqued homeschooling have begun to appreciate the dedication and effort that homeschooling families exhibit.
My experience with homeschooling spans six years, beginning with my second child, who fell just short of the kindergarten age cutoff. Instead of searching for a transitional kindergarten program, which can be quite rare, I decided to homeschool her, imparting essential skills before she officially started school. I also homeschooled my third child for several months due to a particularly negative experience in public school, and presently, I’m homeschooling my fourth child, who also has a late birthday.
Each time I made the decision to homeschool, I faced a mix of skepticism and admiration. Some friends expressed their insecurities by saying, “I could never do that.” I often joked that homeschooling didn’t mean my children would become social misfits, nor would I be wearing long skirts and churning butter. But if that’s your style, go for it!
While homeschooling offers numerous advantages, I recognize that it is a privilege that requires significant sacrifices, including time, energy, and finances. Not everyone has the opportunity to choose homeschooling, even if they wish to. Various factors influence the decision to homeschool or not.
For my family, homeschooling has proven to be an immensely rewarding journey. When one of my children was struggling in public school, our shift to homeschooling allowed us to reconnect. Their confidence transformed from nearly nonexistent to thriving. We enjoyed fantastic field trips, such as visiting a local coffee roaster, which sparked research on environmental issues, manufacturing, and marketing.
The experience was not solely academic. My child thrived outside of the crowded, noisy classrooms. Our learning environment was akin to a cinematic experience, filled with jazz music, sunlight streaming through the windows, and a pace that suited our needs. My child rediscovered a love for learning and developed a sense of security.
Eventually, my children transitioned back into traditional schools. When the pandemic struck, parents found themselves unexpectedly thrust into remote-learning scenarios. While some mistakenly labeled themselves as homeschoolers, there are indeed similarities between homeschooling and remote learning.
Suddenly, the criticisms of homeschooling disappeared. Those who once deemed it “strange” were now praising the efforts of homeschooling families. How do we manage to succeed?
Being “stuck at home,” tackling tech issues, trying to stay organized, and juggling materials while managing multiple kids’ schedules is no small feat. The pandemic has exposed the flaws in our education system—issues that are not solely the fault of individual teachers. Parents are now acutely aware of the gaps and inconsistencies that exist, as they manage their children’s education.
Homeschooling is no longer viewed as a choice for “free-spirited” parents who distrust the educational system. Instead, it has become a collective journey that many have embarked upon without preparation or guidance. In fact, homeschooling might be easier than remote learning, as it allows for a more personalized approach. Remote learning involves multiple adults—teachers and parents—working together, which can complicate matters.
Just as public and private school teachers deserve commendation for their efforts during this challenging time, homeschooling parents who have navigated this terrain for years are finally being recognized for their hard work. They are not merely introverts avoiding the “real world,” but diverse, dedicated, and creative individuals.
Parents engaged in remote learning are experiencing the realities of homeschooling as they assist their children in navigating online education. This undertaking is demanding. I balance homeschooling one child while helping another with remote learning and ensuring two others are engaged in their in-person classes. This experience has deepened my appreciation for all the educators and caregivers striving to ensure children continue to learn amid the pandemic.
There is no single right way to educate a child. Each situation is unique, with children possessing different needs and abilities. Not everyone has the same options available, and we are all doing our best. Thankfully, this period has led to a growing acknowledgment of homeschooling parents for who they genuinely are, rather than the stereotypes they have faced.
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Summary:
The pandemic has reshaped perceptions of homeschooling, as parents who once criticized it have gained firsthand experience of its challenges and rewards. My personal journey with homeschooling has been filled with transformative moments for my children, allowing them to thrive outside traditional classroom settings. As the lines between homeschooling and remote learning blur, it’s essential to recognize the dedication of homeschooling parents and appreciate the diverse approaches to education that cater to individual needs.