I recently had the opportunity to talk to a college student who never attended a traditional school setting. She had been homeschooled since she was 5 years old. She felt that she had thrived from the experience and listed several benefits of homeschooling.
It was fun to compare notes. I wasn’t homeschooled, but I homeschooled my children for 11 years and had many positive experiences. Some of my children enjoyed being homeschooled and some didn’t. It was intriguing to hear another perspective. There were many benefits Shriauna and I could both agree on. it was also interesting to learn about the resources available now that weren’t available when I taught my homeschool.
We both agreed that homeschool provided a student directed, personalized curriculum. Parents have greater choice in not only the values that are taught but also the curriculum itself. Instead of having a conflict between values taught at home and those taught at school, they can be in complete alignment. Homeschool parents are in a much better position to support or tutor their children. They have a much better understanding of the curriculum because they chose it.
Homeschool provides greater flexibility for families. Children with health issues have an easier time keeping up with assignments. Lessons continue on family vacations. There is no dilemma about taking children out of school for a family event. And there are no outside events interfering with instruction. As Shriauna said, “There are no snow days when you’re homeschooled.”
There are new innovations in homeschool that weren’t available in the 1980”s. Parents always had, and still have, the option of designing curriculum entirely on their own. However, most take advantage of the online schools and co-ops that are available now. With the technology we have available through the internet, there are several companies that provide comprehensive programs on a variety of subjects. There are also various segments available for the parent who prefers to pick and choose components to form their own tailor made program.
Shriauna talked about the social interactions in a homeschool co-op. These organizations allow students to work in teams. Each parent has a role in the group in providing instruction in various subject areas. Students take the initiative to communicate directly with them to get the training and experiences they choose for their curriculum. Shriauna found these interactions had prepared her for the world of work. She said, “I have been able to receive jobs a lot easier. The interviewers were impressed with my ability to communicate clearly and confidently with adults. They admired my work ethic, and they admired my flexibility and desire to actively learn.”
Shriauna’s interview will be published on Tuesday. Listen to learn more about homeschool from a student’s perspective and recommended resources.