Any parent who seriously contemplates homeschooling and then decides to take the leap is well aware that there will be critics. I read stacks and stacks of books on the subject, compiled the information, and shared it with my husband before we decided to teach our three children at home. All of that information prepared me for an adjustment period (especially for my oldest child), a messy house, and strangers in the grocery store questioning why my children were not in school. I fully expected resistance from the county, teachers we knew, or acquaintances. What I was not prepared for was a confrontation by close family members six months into our first school year at home.
Oh, I knew one of them was reticent when we made our decision known. I tried to help by recommending books on the topic, inviting her to convention, and sharing the children's work once we started. So far, she has not examined a single book and did not attend convention. Another family member at least shows an interest in the kid's education and looks through their work with them. As for the third . . . I am not really sure were they are even getting their wild ideas about our house and home.
At first, I was truly hurt. I have poured so much of my heart and soul into this endeavor, and I did not make the decision lightly. I know that I am doing what is right for my children at this time. Does that mean we will homeschool forever? I do not know. We are taking this one year at a time, based upon what is best for our children and our family.
As I thought about my own family's reaction, I came to a very important conclusion. It is okay for them not to agree with or even like what we are doing. I have even come to the realization that I can handle them sharing their negativity with me. They are most certainly entitled to their opinion. At the end of the day, what really matters is my faith in God and that I pray for strength every day to be a good mother and help my children along a moral path. In those things, I believe I am succeeding.
I am sharing this with you because I know there are others out their facing similar battles. It may not be over homeschooling. People seem way to eager to judge our homes, our children, and our choices without really understanding how our lives are being led. The lesson I have learned is to not immediately react; rather, examine your heart, and if you truly believe your decision is helping your children, then stick to your chosen path.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Nautical Experiment
One of the things I love the most about homeschooling is how often the children use their imaginations. On a Saturday (a non-school day, mind you) the kids asked if they could try to build boats that would really float.
We all thought the pencil one would work.
Instead, my son's creation - aluminum foil and ROCKS of all things - was the winner!
Just goes to show . . . you can always learn something from an experiment :)
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