Ramblings on why I homeschool

At this point I don't even remember when I figured out that I wanted to homeschool. It was definitely sometime in my early 20’s. I do think it is important to point out, I’m not against public school. It has its place and there are plenty of kids who need to go there. Ultimately, if we find my two youngest sons would thrive there, we would send them. I will say, that as time goes on, I find it harder to believe they could thrive better in the public education system but anything is possible. 

I am going to break down my WHY into 3 main points. My guess is that there are probably more nuanced points and these points listed will probably evolve and grow as time goes on, but for today this is what I am writing.

Reason #1, I want the opportunity to shape my child's education. However that looks. Whether we do classical education or turn to some sort of online method or something, the mode doesn't actually matter. I want the opportunity to educate my children myself and decide how it's done. I truly do feel that it is my responsibility and privilege to educate my children. I mean I guess you could call that perspective selfish but it’s how I feel. ( Ok so real talk, I HAVE been called selfish for that perspective. Ridiculous but it happened.)

Anyways…..

Reason #2, I want to control the influx of media and topics that don't align with our family values. Let your mind take you where you want with that. It's probably what I mean. I dislike the increased nature of computers in school. I dislike the increased sexuality in school. I dislike the generalness of the schools trying to teach our students morals and how to be adults while that is our job here at home.

Reason #3, this time is short with my children and I really want to be home with my babies. I just really liked spending time with them. You know even with the older kids, I love being able to drive them places and fit in the short amount of time that I do get. That short 10 minute drive home from picking up those 2 kids from the bus stop is just precious time. Samuel gets super excited to see them and I hate missing those moments. Just last week, Samuel spent the drive over to get them clearing off the seat for Sis and telling me about how he couldn't wait to make a heart for her because she loved him so much. If I was working, I would have missed this moment. 

In retrospect, my desire to homeschool really comes from more of a place of wanting to spend time with my children than anything else. Maybe that perspective will change, maybe it won't. Ultimately, I think it's time we live in a world that is more accepting of spending time with our children. 

What do you think? What are your reasons for educating your children?

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