Dispelling Homeschool Myths

[Grams 2 four]

Recently, it has been estimated that there are 1,642,027 homeschoolers in America.(a2zhomeschooling.com, 2017). There are numerous reasons for the surge in the number of homeschool families in the USA: 1.) religious calling  2.) more parental involvement and oversight  3.) opposition to Common Core  4.) better care for special needs kids  5.) tailored education for the individual student  and 6.) avoidance of bullies. Whatever the reason parents choose to homeschool, they will all, at some time, have to deal with one or more of the myths that come with this journey. Let us look at a few of the more popular myths and then present the truth. 

1. MYTH: Homeschool kids will not be college-ready.

    TRUTH: Homeschool students actually do well in college. In most cases, homeschool settings yield more independent teens. This independence is needed to survive the college                              years.  Also, many homeschool students participate in dual enrollment which provides them with hands-on college experience. Homeschool students have learned to thrive in                    a learning environment through mastering their learning styles and multiple intelligence language. This carries over into college.

2. MYTH: Homeschoolers will not learn socialization skills and will not have friends.

     TRUTH: Actually, many homeschoolers have excellent communication and socialization skills. Instead of being locked away in classrooms, with nothing but their peers,                                                homeschoolers interact daily with different age groups and in various settings. They understand real-world relationships. Through religious, community, and  sporting events,                      homeschoolers have the opportunities to develop meaningful friendships.

3. MYTH: Parents are not qualified to teach their kids.

    TRUTH: Many homeschool parents have college degrees. Those who don't though, have many resources to help them if needed. From co-ops to private tutors to online programs,                            parents have a plethora of aids to enable them in this educational journey. Most importantly, no one loves the child more than the parent, and they can insure the best for their                    child/children. 

If you are considering jumping on this roller coaster, don't let the myths cause you to hesitate. Find a support group and a mentor and join the homeschooling family.

 

REFERENCES

a2zhomeschooling.com (2017). Number of homeschoolers in US 2017-2018. Retrieved from:  http://a2zhomeschooling.com/thoughts_opinions_home_school/numbers_homeschooled_students/