Friday, February 2, 2007

Being a Homeschooler: An Insider's Look

Home schooling, a new phenomenon that is sweeping the United States and abroad, but have you ever wondered how the kids feel and what are some of the advantages and disadvantages of being a home schooled student? Well, I have a slight advantage, I was a home schooled student, back when home schooling was relatively unheard of and I can honestly say that I loved every minute of it and I have had many parents ask me what are some of the advantages and disadvantages and this is what I have said.

Some of the advantages are:

Hands on education with field trips and community service projects that you (the student) can participate in.
Immediate access to the "teacher".
One on one tutoring.
The ability to work on your weak areas and to enhance your strong areas.
Having the time to do your extra activities and things that interest you.
Building self confidence through positive reinforcement.
Not having to wait in the rain or snow for the bus!

Some of the disadvantages are:

Parents might have to do more research on a subject if they are not familiar with that particular subject.
You might not have access to a science lab or an art studio.
Expectations- Other people have higher expectations of home schooled students and that might put to much pressure on the children. Remember their only children. Although there is nothing wrong with high expectations, just be realistic!
Patience, Patience, Patience!!!! Patience with teachers and patience with students. We are only human and both "teachers" and "students" make mistakes.