Why homeschooling isn’t for everyone?
Homeschooling has always been a popular alternative to regular schooling. However, recently we have seen an increase in the number of students being enrolled in homeschooling. A recent study revealed that there were 1.57 million American homeschoolers registered in 2014, with an increase rate of 8% year-on-year. However, unbeknown to many, this type of learning method isn’t suitable for every student and is a extremely difficult job for any parent or guardian to take on. So, with that in mind, here are some of the things you need to consider prior to enrolling your child into a homeschooling education:
A lot of time and attention
You might be a stay at home mom or dad, but do you have enough time to look over your child’s classes while doing other errands as well? Yes, homeschooling will require you to spend more time and attention looking over their educational phases, which means refreshing your memory on most of the subjects as well as setting out lesion plans. There are various factors that you will have to oversee, such as the best time to undertake classes, where is the most conducive spot in the house to learn, etc. The truth is that most parents out there would rather go to work than be with their children for the whole day. The Penelope Trunk website said that some of the parents they interviewed said, “work is a thousand times easier for me [than being home with the children].” However, most of them also admit that they do not feel comfortable leaving their children in school, especially with the rising stories of bullying and other forms of discrimination that could affect their growth and education. So, ask yourself, are you up for the challenge?
Technology tools need to be set
The rise of digital educational tools makes learning easier for today’s students. Online references are only a click away and various learning styles are now being implemented via these platforms. For homeschoolers, technology (particularly mobile devices) makes learning seamless through interactive photos, videos, infographics, and even applications that they can consume wherever they go. Smartphones have now become more of a necessity to modern day students, as they allow them to stay connected with their peers while consuming educational materials at their own pace and in their own chosen destination.
Some smartphones are built for students as they come with productivity apps that they can use. O2 said that one of which is the iPhone 6 that comes with the Productivity Suite that allows students to write text files, presentations, compile spreadsheets and much more via their handset. Similarly, Android devices also come with the Google Drive and/or the Microsoft Office app that also has the same features. These technologies will have to be set and determined first before enrolling the child into a homeschooling curriculum to guarantee an effective learning experience for them.
Psychological support should always be available
Will homeschooling turn your child into an introvert? Will they be able to mingle with peers in the same way school-based students will interact with their peers? Perhaps, these are some of the most common notions about homeschooling that parents consider when deciding whether or not to enroll them in a school or keep them at home. The truth is that there is no real connection between being introvert and homeschooling, but inborn introverts may find harmony and peace when they are homeschooled. It might help to understand that being homeschooled doesn’t mean that the student will struggle to make friends. It’s a matter of guiding them in the best practices to build strong relationships. Keep them in the loop about society to prepare them psychologically on how they should react in certain situations. Take note that technology has its own set of crimes that they should prepare for, such as cyberbullying, so keep them informed all the time.
Given all those variables to consider, you have to ask yourself again, whether your child would benefit from homeschooling or not? Take note that homeschooling lessons are also just as effective as the campus-based ones where parents have more time to oversee their children. Used learning as a way to build bridges to make your relationship with your children stronger. This article is not to discourage you, rather a guideline to ensure that all variables are well thought out before you decide to home school them.
Whether you are considering homeschooling or not (and especially if not) you should consider starting your child on a program to enhance their learning abilities. Helping your child build up the building blocks of learning is one of the best things a parent can do for their child. It's simple, fun, and easy and your child will enjoy it. You can get the course here
You'll build a successful learning experience for your children. Ensuring them success in school and in life.
Written by Yasmine Lilah
Exclusive for Learning Success Blog
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Photo Credit: jimmiehomeschoolmom via Compfight cc
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