The year 2018 marked a momentous change of lifestyle for my family. After 20 years of home educating our three children, the last one started college and my wife and I had some adjusting to do, and a lot to reflect on. Home schooling is not for everyone, but it was right for us.
The Wild Roses
You are not alone.
Luckily, we knew home educating families before we started and they introduced us to several wonderful groups of likeminded people who were extremely supportive. In later years, blogs and Facebook groups emerged and offered help from all over the world. There is always someone who has been where you are and who has a kind word of advice.
Socialisation is not a problem.
We were always being asked, “How do your kids socialise?” but it was never an issue. I’ve already mentioned the groups, which meet regularly and often organise group activities and sports/games, but there are countless other ways for your kids to meet others. My eldest son was a tennis fan, my daughter chose ballet, and my youngest son loved badminton so much that he’s now an instructor. They all have many more friends than I do and are happy interacting with people of all ages.
You don’t have to be a teacher.
You quickly become a teacher (my wife was a natural), but without classroom management or SATS to contend with. Often, you’re learning along with your child and that helps give perspective. I know people with no formal education who very successfully taught their children to GCSE’s and beyond.
Your child leads their own learning.
It’s wonderful to see your kids get enthusiastic about a subject and then follow it to see where it leads, maybe discovering the full sweep of a period of history, rather than just highlights, or seeing what applications a piece of science may have.
It’s easier with two, but you can go alone.
My wife did most of the teaching and ferried the kids to various activities while I was at work. It certainly made life easier, but we’ve met many awesome single parents who are home schooling their children with great success. The support from many of the local groups certainly helps.
There is no hiding.
The biggest drawback is having nobody else to blame. You can’t say the school is responsible for behaviour, and if the teacher isn’t performing, the only person you can complain to is yourself.
Your heart will break when it’s over.
Your children are at the centre of your life all day every day. It’s hugely rewarding, but when they finish their last exam and head off to college, there is a good chance your heart will break… but also burst with pride. My wife now tutors other people’s children in French, German and Latin. Meanwhile, I am a full-time author – taking that plunge was very similar to deciding to home school.