The only purpose of education is freedom, the only method is experience.

-Leo Tolstoy

Over the past 3 years homeschooling has really taken off and is exploding in a popular alternative to traditional school for many families.  This has led to many mothers taking this into serious consideration as an option they had never thought about in the past.  Or, possibly never heard about before.  For all of us who were raised in the traditional system, there are some serious biases and barriers to overcome in our minds.  Let’s see what are the greatest fears homeschooling generates for us and how to easily tackle them.

1.  Inadequacy
How could we possibly teach our own children if we’ve never considered it?  We aren’t trained in educating.  How do we know if we’re providing a quality education?   So, how could it be possible for me to teach my children properly?  Many homeschooling mothers have faced these same doubts and have come through successfully with thriving children.

Solutions:  Seek support from experienced homeschoolers as well as from local and online groups and forums.  Focus on your strengths and embrace flexibility.  Utilize curricula and resources that align with your child’s learning style and interests.

2.  Socialization
How will my child develop social skills if she’s not spending 8 hours a day behind a desk surrounded by other children her age?  Will he become a social misfit?

Solutions:  In my opinion these fears are unwarranted and your child has the opportunity to interact with a limitless variety of people.  Get your child involved in activities with other children.  Harness the knowledge and wisdom of adults to pass on their special skills to your child.  Connect with other homeschooling families for local gatherings.

3.  Choosing the Right Curriculum

How could I possibly choose the right curriculum?  I have no idea how to find all the options available and it’s time-consuming and overwhelming.  What if I choose the wrong one?

Solutions:  Find a curriculum that fits your education goals and the learning style of your child.  Research and evaluate a handful of options that meet your initial criteria.  And then choose one or mix methods for greater variety.  Also, an experienced homeschooler can help guide you through that process and cutting down on the time invested.

4.  Time Management

How will I ever be able to fit homeschooling into my already busy schedule?  Is it possible to teach my children in addition to mothering, taking care of household tasks, family matters, driving children to activities and possibly working?  Certainly finding time and balance between educating and the rest of life can be challenging.

Solutions:   Remember that life is not perfect.  But with proper planning and organizing, a successful homeschool experience is possible.  Involving children in household chores has the added bonus of teaching them responsibility.

5.  Future Opportunities

Is it possible for my child to be accepted into university?  Will he be able to obtain a job without a high school diploma?  How can she navigate in this world without a ‘proper’ education certificate?

Solutions:  Keep in mind that a quality education experience is your goal rather than a piece of paper.  Creating a portfolio filled with your child’s accomplishments, experiences and talents can be even impressive and convincing to schools and employers.   Many universities today have admissions officers who specialize in homeschooled applicants.  And actively seek them out.

As mothers, we naturally worry about our children.  It’s part of our DNA.  That’s the way we are encoded.  But we can quell those fears by preparing and knowing how to tackle them as they arise.  Always know that you are capable of creating a successful homeschool journey and that your children will thrive because of it.  

As an experienced homeschool veteran, I am always here to guide you.  Get in touch to see how I can help you.