The Pros And Cons Of Homeschooling: Making The Best Choice For Your Child
All parents want their kids to get the best education.
There are three options available these days: homeschooling, public school, and private school. Not everyone can afford private school tuition though. In fact, it has been proven that there is no significant difference between the private and public school systems.
Public schooling is free in most countries; however, there are a lot of faults - inequity, bullying, the lack of teacher's attention, and weak education programs. Let's not forget that some kids can't attend public schools due to their health problems and special needs. The only option left is homeschooling. Let's weigh the pros and cons of this system and figure out what would be best for your kids:Benefits Of Homeschooling
Flexibility
As a parent of homeschoolers, you will need to choose a curriculum. Take into account your kids' interests and read online reviews of the programs that interest you. Also, find out what kind of learning style your kids have.
The best thing about homeschooling is that you can modify the program and add something that in your opinion can benefit your kids. For instance, you can teach them the basics of psychology or financial literacy. The program at school is full of things that don't have feasible real-world applications, but it shouldn't bother you if you home-school your kids.
Most children can't concentrate longer than half an hour. In public schools, they are forced to sit straight until the bell rings. It is a problem for kids with attention-deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. If you teach your children at home, you can create a schedule that would be comfortable for them.
Also, it will allow your family to travel anytime you want; you just need to make a schedule. Another great thing is that you will be able to teach your kids in any place. It can be a classroom, a living room, or even a stem playground or a park.
Special Needs
If your kids have special needs, homeschooling can be an option. That's how you can make sure that your kids get enough attention. Also, it will help decrease their anxiety and make their learning process fun. For instance, you can create an inspiring space where your children can learn. Outfit your classroom with colorful pillows, flowers, and a chalkboard wall. It will help your kids enjoy their homeschooling.
To get support and a wealth of resources, you can contact local homeschooling groups and organizations such as the National Challenged Homeschoolers Associated Network (NATHHAN).
Social Experience
Most parents are afraid that homeschooling will make their kids antisocial. However, there are a lot of things that you can do in order to help your children build social skills.
First of all, your kids can spend time with other homeschoolers. You might want to consider organizing a small group so that your children learn with others. Also, you will be able to share responsibilities with other parents.
Secondly, encourage your kids to get involved in after-school activities and go to the sleep-away camps during the summer.
Teach your homeschoolers how to speak to people of different ages; it will benefit them later in life. To do so, you can introduce your children to your friends.
Also, you should be a role model. Show your kids that you are open to people and encourage them to do the same.
Homeschooling gives a lot of opportunities, so let your children use them!
Disadvantages Of Homeschooling
Cost
If you decide to teach your kids at home on your own, you will not be able to work. Homeschooling is a full-time job; you will need to be there for your children to teach and motivate them.
Keep in mind that you will also be responsible for buying school supplies, project materials, and books. You will have to pay extra for enrolling your kids in extracurricular activities. So think twice before you start homeschooling. Creating a monthly budget can help you to weigh all the pros and cons and avoid a difficult financial situation in your family.
Family Stress
Being with your kids every single day might be more complicated than you think. Eventually, you might get tired of each other. You need to have the time for yourself as well. So, discuss this in detail with your spouse.
You shouldn't make a sacrifice for kids by quitting your favorite job. Your children need a happy parent, not the one who will blame them for lost career opportunities. Your kids will grow up soon enough. That's why you need to make a plan for your life before you start homeschooling.
Lack Of Knowledge
There is a chance you will not be able to teach your kids some subjects unless you are a trained teacher. However, it is still impossible to be an expert in everything. If you don't want your kids to lack some knowledge, you will have to find other professional teachers who would come to your house (at an additional cost).
Some people say that homeschooling is the future of education and that it is the most effective way to teach children about the world. However, there are a lot of details that you need to take into consideration before starting this journey.
