This first objection is a spoken one: I am not qualified, and that is way above my skill set. The second objection is one that is not verbalized but very real nonetheless: I have to give up a lot in order to homeschool my children.
Let’s look at the first objection. Who loves your children MORE than you do? Who KNOWS your child more than you do? Often the success of homeschooling is rooted not in your skill set or experience, but in love, dedication and perseverance. Your commitment to make disciples of Christ of your children, and to develop a love of learning are keys to success. By the way, legally in Virginia, you are only required to have one parent/guardian who has at least a high school diploma to qualify to homeschool. The wonderful thing about homeschooling is that you can cater it to your child’s specific needs and strengths. Curriculum choices are simply amazing. They are designed to open and go, without lesson planning on your part.
The second objection centers around giving up things. We can choose to focus on what we give up instead of what we will gain. Yes, with every new endeavor we sacrifice, time, money, and sometimes job, and possessions. However, what is gained far outweighs any sacrifices. Incredible family time, memories, close relationships, fun activities and field trips are just a few gains. Watching your children develop a love of learning and a love of God has its rewards too.
I recently met a lady whose family tradition involving harvest time for their large vegetable garden was to have all hands on deck. This included every family member and even friends and neighbors. They made it into a big event that was loads of fun and great memories. Her children, when they were young, often objected to being involved, but now as adults they admit it was great family fun that they cherish. This is an example of what is gained, rather than lost in the homeschooling world.
Homeschooling is about family. You will become a student of your child, gaining insights about your child you may otherwise have missed if they attended public school. Often I hear parents say, “Now my adult children are homeschooling my grandchildren.” What does that communicate? Children cherished something from those homeschooling years as a family, and desire to give their children the same thing.
We often abdicate things to “the professionals.” Homeschooling develops skills in you as parents that you already have. Endless resources are available to encourage and equip you. You are not homeschooling alone. You will gain a fantastic community of new friends, and successful homeschooling parents who will assist you. So, it is not about qualifications but connections to available resources.
My consulting service is all about connections and resources. I am here to help! It would be a privilege to serve you and your family.
