How to Deal with Homeschool Misconceptions

By eHow Education Editor

Rate: (1 Ratings)

One of the most common questions you're likely to get as a new homeschooler is "Why homeschool?" Family members will ask. Friends will ask. Even strangers will ask once you tell them why Johnny isn't in school. In spite of the rising popularity and favorable statistics of homeschooling, you still have to be prepared to deal with misconceptions. Arming yourself beforehand can save you a lot of grief, especially in that first year.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Ask others what kinds of misconceptions they had to deal with and what they said. This will help prepare you with information from someone else's first-hand experience.

Step2

Start by telling your family and friends that you've thought the situation through. You've considered the pros and cons of homeschooling and you're not taking this decision lightly. Admit if you're not sure it will work out. Let them know you're willing to take responsibility for your child's education.

Step3

Talk about the support networks and materials available to you when they tell you you don't know how to teach. Tell them how you'll educate yourself about what your child needs to be learning. Find ways to keep up with age-appropriate educational requirements.

Step4

Show them what activities you'll be doing outside your home and with other families. Isolation is one of the most common homeschool misconceptions. Emphasize that your child will be making connections with other homeschoolers, as well as their friends in public and private schools.

Step5

Make an education plan for the year and share it with people who challenge you. Talk about some of the subjects you'll cover, the materials you'll use and how you'll monitor your child's progress.

Step6

Emphasize that you're not your child's only teacher. Tell them about extracurricular activities, other parents who teach your child and other people who share in your child's education.

Tips & Warnings

Always maintain a positive attitude for your sake and your child's sake.
Do your homework! Published sources make a compelling argument.
Reassure family members there's still a place for them in your child's life.
Don't expect to "convert" anyone. Just strive to express your views.

Comments

WeeSandy said

Flag This Comment

on 6/25/2007 I homeschooled my daughter from Grade 4 through graduation, and found it to be fantastic. She learned 10X as much as her peers, plus had the time and freedom to pursue particular topics in much greater depth than allowed in school. She maintained her love of learning for its own sake, instead of just spewing back whatever she was forced to in order to get her "A". As an adult, she is still an active learner, which is giving her amazing job success at a very early age!

Like everyone, we didn't quite know what we were doing, and we took a calculated risk. It payed off so well! The main difference we see between homeschooling success and failure seems to be the level of research & planning, and the extent of family involvement. We worked through a Distance Ed school, so we had the provincial curriculum sent and marked by tutors. We added topics whenever she showed an interest.