You’re at the park chatting with another mom.
At the grocery store making small talk with the cashier.
You run into an acquaintance.
It doesn’t matter who or where, it’s the same conversation.
“Your girls are so sweet.” I smile.
“Oh, thank you!”
“Your oldest must be about to start Kindergarten.” And then the anticipated question. “Where will she be going to school?” or now that school has started for the year a more accurate statement from some one is more like, “Are you holding her back this year?” Or, “Does she have a late birthday?”
“We’re actually planning to home school.” Gulp. I say it as though I’m robbing my child of something incredible. The truth is these people probably could care less. But, I do!
3, 2, 1 Ahhhh!!!
I began planning to home school long before having kids, and now the time has finally arrived! But, even after all the research, without any experience, I feel lost in this game. I watched my cousin begin the process about 6 years ago and was blown away with her little one. She could read, write, tell time, play well with other kids and she learned it all while spending valuable time with her family? (Just for the record, her accomplishments have far outweighed those few comparatively small feats.) The idea was so bizarre I couldn’t help being intrigued. After having my own littles I was officially set on home education. I loved the idea of spending time with them while they learn!
Even though homeschooling has become much more socially acceptable compared to days past and there’s an incredible support system full of homeschooling families, to say it’s looked upon as normal– just isn’t true.
Add the abnormality of “home schooling” to your own social circle of friends and family who aren’t keen on the idea and you’re constantly questioned with how you’re going to make things work, what curriculum you use, what about when they get into calculus? If you’re like me, I’m spent by mid-day! I give all I can to three kids while keeping the house in descent order (to my standards anyway), the fridge somewhat stocked and something of moderate health on the table by the time my hubby arrives home from a long day. How in the world could the above woman possibly educate three children?
Well, as I wrote the last two sentences I gained all my confidence back. Yep.
That’s exactly how I’m going to do it!
Not just in between those things mentioned above, but also through those things. I will teach them their book smarts and I will teach them what life is all about. I’ll teach them think, to question, to be helpful and hopefully many other things I can not yet foresee. I will be able to work with them through all their big emotions– their upsets, their excitements. I will have the chance to learn how they learn, and learn how to teach each of them uniquely so they get the most benefit and have the most fun possible while learning!
I’ve lacked confidence when it comes to handing out an education to the three of the most prized people in my life. Am I smart enough? I haven’t been educated to teach, so how do I qualify myself? I gain a great deal of confidence from watching veteran home school parents, who don’t seem to be any more of a rocket scientist than myself, with awesome, thriving, and brilliantly intelligent children. If you haven’t already, I suggest researching for just a few minutes. You won’t be able to deny the benefits of educating kids at home. I am thankful to have found an option to share my life with my kids as they grow from tiny to big. I’m looking forward to the challenge of getting creative and learn to teach beyond worksheets. Kindergarten here we come!
Don’t be your biggest bully!
We have to realize all insecurities we have in life are feelings within ourselves that are ours alone and can’t be blamed on others. Outside influences may stir up our insecurities, but we can beat them all by finding our strength in truth, knowledge and grace. I research all I can about everything important to me at that moment, and this helps bring knowledge. And knowledge is power! But, I have to remind myself to keep Jesus at the top of my list. He’s the only truth. He gives me true strength and grace which helps me extend these things to those around me and to myself. I hope you’re able to find the same strength and grace along your journey!
