Is Homeschooling a Good Idea?

According to Facts On Homeschooling, Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., February 2003 Active and Visible in American Life, there were an estimated 1,700,000 to 2,100,000 children (grades K-12) receiving home education during 2002-2003 in the United States alone. Further study in Facts showed that adults who were homeschooled felt prepared to face adulthood, had many friends, and enjoyed their educational experiences. Many studies have shown that homeschooled children perform better on tests than children taught in public school systems in the United States.

Yet the issue of social interaction is one that is raised, time and again, when it comes to the question of homeschooling. Parents say that it is necessary for a child to interact with peers, in order to develop of the social etiquette they will need to survive in the real world as adults. This is a very valid concern, and can not be overlooked. No matter how well-educated a child is, this will not take the place of learning how to socialize and connect with others of the same age.

It is possible, however, to combine the superior education of homeschooling with the social interaction that growing children must have. Parents who include their children in events like sports, clubs, and other after-school events give them the opportunity to meet and talk with their peers, developing the necessary social network they will need to have. In this way, it's possible to give a homeschooled child the social life they will need to develop skills that will serve them in adulthood. This way, children can have the best of both worlds.

To make homeschooling a success, the parent has a huge responsibility. Not only must they be the parent, but also the educator. The parent will also be in charge of making sure the child has all the social interaction they need, make sure they participate in sports and other group activities. It sounds like a lot of work, but the rewards are often well worth it. Studies show that homeschooled children have fewer problems with unemployment, and have a strong sense of self-identity. Many children flourish in a homeschooled environment, which allows them to have a very personalized, one-on-one educational experience. The learning that is achieved through homeschooling is often not reached in large school establishments.

It may be a lot of work, but there is a lot of evidence that suggests homeschooling gives children superior education and skills for the future.