When we first started homeschooling I think most of our family was caught off-guard. Both my husband and I went to traditional schools and it was assumed that our children would too. I had gone to school to teach so it followed that our children would go to whatever school I taught at. As time went by though we saw how the schools in our area were and decided it wasn’t for our family. We decided that the best choice for us and for our personal situation (medical, work-related, etc) was to homeschool.
As I announced our chosen path I was asked those questions that everyone wants to know… What about socialization? What about high school? How will you teach multiple grade levels? Is it legal to do this? After giving my answers our family and friends seem to accept our decision. Afterall, what could they do? These are our kids and our life. We could make those decisions as we saw fit.
Through the years though something amazing started to happen. Our family and friends began to see what an amazing journey we were on and how beneficial it was for our family. Before we knew it was had wonderful support. My inlaws in particular have been so supportive it’s mindblowing! My mother-in-law often buys us homeschooling books or curriculum idea books. She buys the kids science activities and journals to write in. She has bought hundreds of reading books that she felt might be fun for the kids. She has been my greatest and biggest supporter! It was so unexpected but so welcomed.
Sometimes it takes us taking the lead and that leap of faith for others to see what a wonderful thing homeschooling can be. We we excel it helps others see just how amazing the homeschool process can be. Before we know it we make allies in places we never thought we might!
Who are your greatest allies? How have they helped your homeschooling quest?
Michelle blogs about her family at Pass The Flu Bug Please. If you have a moment, check her out!
No related posts.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Our family has been very supportive. Of course, at first, my Mom thought we were insane to think about it. But, she said over and over that she thought we could do it, she was just worried about the stress for me, not that the kids wouldn’t thrive. I have had lots of questions from other people though, but we have been blessed that our family has generally been pretty on board the whole time.
I don’t know that anyone has thought we were insane (at least they didn’t say it to our faces) yet! I do get a lot of questions, as well. I used to feel the need to defend my decision, but now I just say, “We homeschool.” And I leave it up to them to ask the questions!
Our church family is extremely supportive! About half of the families with children homeschool, so everyone is already used to the idea. You always have someone who has ideas or suggestions to send your way. It is great!
It will be interesting to see how the views of those around us change as our children grow and learn!