Homeschooling is steadily gaining popularity for various reasons. While traditional schooling offers many benefits, the drawbacks have inspired families to turn to homeschooling as the preferred alternative. Families turning to this educational model are finding innovative ways to personalise education so that it aligns with their children’s interests. In this article, we will delve into the resurgence of homeschooling and the pros and cons associated with it.
Why Families Are Choosing Homeschooling
Some families with stay-at-home parents or parents resigning from work have decided to homeschool their children because it allows a more individualised and meaningful experience. A principal, Mandy Davis, resigned from her job to give her children “an education that respects their individuality and fosters their natural curiosities,” according to a Yahoo article.
Many families have chosen homeschooling over traditional schooling due to safety concerns. Children in traditional schools often experience bullying, anxiety, stress from competing, dissatisfaction with a rigid curriculum, and even deadly school shootings. These factors contribute to parents turning to homeschooling.
The Growing Numbers
During the COVID-19 pandemic, homeschooling gained some popularity. A 2023 report from the Washington Post revealed that homeschooling has seen significant growth in the United States, with about 1.9 to 2.7 million children being taught at home. In 2019, an estimated 1.5 million children were homeschooled.
Curriculum Choices
Homeschooling allows parents to teach their children in unique ways to foster their natural interests. Some parents design their own curricula while others select one to teach from. They also have the freedom to delve into unconventional lessons, allowing their children to learn about anything they are interested in, like robotics or studying ancient history.
Addressing the Socialisation Myth
One of the greatest concerns about homeschooling is the lack of socialisation. In traditional schools, children interact with peers and teachers throughout the day, while at home, they interact with their families. However, parents who homeschool their children seek opportunities for their children to socialise with peers and other children. They may send their children to museum classes, youth groups, and community events, encouraging them to participate in activities that keep them socially engaged.
Pros of Homeschooling
Individualised Learning: Homeschooling comes with the freedom of tailoring education so that it aligns not only with children’s interests but also supports their unique learning styles and paces. This makes it easier for children to develop a love for learning.
Flexible Scheduling: There are no restrictions with the schedule since parents can design a schedule around their daily tasks and create space for extracurricular activities and special needs.
Safe Learning Environment: External threats like bullying and school violence are prevented when the child is learning from the safety and comfort of their home.
Stronger Family Bonds: Homeschooling can strengthen the bond between parents and children. This allows the child to feel more supported at home and may confide more in their parents.
Cons of Homeschooling
Time Commitment: Homeschooling is very time-consuming, requiring parents to invest time and energy. They need to remain dedicated to the role of teaching their children.
Financial Strain: With one parent staying home to teach their child, the family will depend on one income. This may be challenging, especially with additional costs for curriculum materials, tutors, and extracurricular activities.
Limited Socialisation Opportunities: Despite the interactions and group activities at home or occasional youth group activities, children might miss the daily social interactions they experience at traditional schools.
Lack of Oversight: Some places, such as certain states in the US, lack regulations for homeschooling. This can cause significant gaps in education or accountability.
Parental Burnout: Some parents may find it challenging to manage their daily household tasks while providing quality education for their children. The pressure to maintain balance can lead to frustration, an overwhelming feeling, or even stress. Before the day ends, they may feel exhausted and struggle to continue for the remainder of the day.