Homeschooling is a choice, just as much as public or private school. Fourteen years ago, I made the decision to homeschool my two children. It was not an easy decision! After doing a ton of research, I remember thinking, ‘One day, homeschooling will be just as much of an option as public or private schooling. When that time comes, I don’t want to look back and say, ‘Lisa – You thought so much about this and never tried. Why not?’ So, I gave it a go and our homeschool journey lasted for six wonderful years.
What I didn’t imagine was that it would be the chaos of COVID19 that would propel so many young parents to consider and actualize this option. Many questions arise when considering homeschooling:
- Are homeschooled children at a social advantage or disadvantage?
- What about academically?
- What is a typical day for a homeschooled child?
- Is it hard for a child to transition from public or private school into homeschooling?
- And what about the re-entrance back into public or private school?
- Is it hard for a homeschooled child to get into college?
- And… what is life like for the parents?
HOMESCHOOLING DURING COVID19
Below, I share links to my radio broadcast about the homeschool experience. While it was recorded prior to COVID19, the expressed fears and joys remain the same. I will say that while homeschooling is not for everyone, if my children were still young, our current circumstances would absolutely drive me to homeschool! I would not want my children socially distanced in a classroom, nor wearing a mask (that significantly reduces the oxygen to their growing brains) all day long. There are other factors to consider as well, but that can be saved for a different post. And as serendipity would have it, I met a kindred spirit and new friend last week. Her name is Kate and she radiates with love for her children. She’s a bit younger than I (ahem…) with children much younger than mine and has a post about homeschool ideas for the COVID19 school year that may provide further direction for you: https://www.lovehealthandhome.com/easy-homeschool-setup-ideas-for-the-covid-19-school-year/
MY GUESTS, TAMARA EFFRON and MATTHEW OTA
My guest and childhood friend, Tamara Effron, was the first to introduce me to the concept of homeschooling. Tamara’s path was to be an actress, but along the way she became the bereavement counselor, assistant director, and temporary director of a 21 bed hospice in South Central LA, thereafter founding Tanya’s Children, a non profit agency to help children orphaned by the AIDS epidemic.
After having her own children, she went on to become a La Leche League leader, and a Quality Parenting Instructor. The ride of motherhood was a great one and she was guided by a strong tribe of families in the homeschooling movement. After homeschooling her children, it was time to help them get into college (yes homeschooled kids go to college). She is now supporting others into homeschool education, from homeschool to college, through the Dakota Academy.
Homeschooling, by nature, imparts a wide range of experience. Hear our personal stories that exemplify its many nuances. We both feel it was one of the best decisions of our lives! Our children agree, too! In fact, my younger son, Matthew, makes a special appearance in the show, offering his appreciation and insights on the journey from the perspective of the student.
TWO PLACES TO LISTEN TO THE PODCAST