A few years ago if I had heard the word homeschool, the only thing that would have come to mind was an anti-social kid, in out of fashion clothes who was extra interested in mythical creatures. (I greatly apologize for this stereotype.) Truth is, I didn't know a thing about this way of education, this way of life. I didn't have the slightest idea of the positive affect of a stay-home parent teaching their children from the safety and flexibility of their own home.
Since knowing David and his family, who homeschooled, and many more of my friends who were also homeschooled or are currently homeschooling their children, I have completely changed my opinion on the matter. When done right, homeschooling can be the open invitation a child needs to be who they were created to be in the Lord.
It's a known fact that not everyone digests information in the same way. For me, visual, hands-on learning always works best. Reading and lectures were never substantial enough to get the information to really stick. I've looked back on my schooling days many times and wondered how much more I could have enjoyed learning if I was able to do it in the ways that were best for me. There's no way public schools can do that for every pupil, but a home-based school can.
Homeschooling is not for everyone – certainly not – but for those who can make it work for their family, and are excited for opportunities like teaching outdoors and creating their own curriculum, it's an amazing blessing for a child.
As the parent, you make the rules, you set the pace. That's the part that slightly scares me. But the challenge of getting your child where they need to go also kind of intrigues me. You have their hand in yours, trusting you to lead them into truth. It's a beautiful picture and great way of teaching them (and you) to walk in faith with the Lord.
There's so much I have to learn about it, but from what I've seen of the homeschooling families around me, I know that it can have a wonderful and lasting affect on the development of a child.
Here's some pictures of a day spent studying the earth, playing in the spring blossomed fields, and interacting with peers. It was absolutely beautiful and one of the most impactful "school days" I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
Happy Homeschooling!