Most parents don’t consider the possibility of not sending their children to school. Every single parent you know has a child in academia and even bringing up the topic of homeschooling sparks heated arguments.
Learning in schools has become the norm, and no one can deny that the education system is a wonderful thing. There are always improvements that can be made to any system, but by and large, children are learning, making friends, and setting themselves up for bright futures.
But if it’s so great, why do anything else? Why deviate from this generally-accepted norm and make all that effort to teach your child at home. Surely they won’t have access to the same quality of learning and resources they would get from a school of qualified teachers. In addition, you’ll have to spend all your time teaching your kid, fitting in learning and lesson plans around your work and other commitments. It sounds like a lot of work. No?
Those who criticise home learning rarely see the bigger picture. There are so many great reasons to consider homeschooling your child, both for their benefit and yours. Here are five reasons that might convince you it’s a good idea.
Flexibility
Schools are subject to strict rules, routines, and deadlines. Although this is essential for keeping hundreds of children in check, homeschooling one or two children can allow a lot more flexibility. This way you can fit your child’s learning around other important commitments.
You don’t have to stick to a Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm schedule. You find the times that work best for your child’s learning and make time for other activities like physical exercise and hobbies.
More attention
A single homeschooled pupil will benefit from a great deal more attention than if they were just one of a hundred kids at school. As a teacher and parent, you will have a clear view of exactly how well they are doing and be able to adapt your teaching to focus on them.
It doesn’t matter whether they are ahead or behind the curriculum, as you are the one setting it.
Academic freedom
Why should your child be constrained to the school curriculum? If you don’t feel like your child needs to learn about Henry the Eighth or study French conjugations, you can put less emphasis on these areas.
Instead, you could put more focus on important life skills such as managing finances, looking after your health, and learning to cook.
Lower cost
Putting a child through school is expensive. By teaching them from home you will save a colossal amount of money in the long run. Aside from things like your heating bills, exercise books, and kids’ pencil cases, there are very few expenses when it comes to homeschooling.
Mental health benefits
Schools can sometimes be detrimental to a child’s mental health. If they have a condition that holds them back, such as dyslexia or social anxiety, home is a safe, comforting environment devoid of judgement and stress.
You can focus your teaching on boosting their mental well-being as well as their knowledge, and they will grow up to be well-adjusted, confident adults.
Feature image credit: Katerina Holmes / Pexels
