HELP!! I Want to Become Homeschooled!

by Joli
(Richburg, South Carolina, USA)

I want to become homeschooled because of the situation that I am in while I'm at school. My boyfriend has been homeschooled his whole life and I am pretty sure that his mom would help me. But, my parents won't let me do it and its not even up for discussion.

Do I have any options or are my parents in complete control? By the way, I'm 16 and am a junior.

Hi Joli!
Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it!) as a minor, your parents are in complete control. As a teen, that can be hard to swallow at times - you are becoming more independent, but you also still need to abide by your parents rules and submit to their authority.

I love that you want to become homeschooled and am sad that your parents aren't willing to discuss it with you. The idea of homeschooling can be overwhelming and scary for some. Your parents want the best for you; homeschooling may be too foreign of an idea for them to even consider looking at it.

I don't know if you believe in prayer, but I would pray for your parents and your desire to be homeschooled. God can change people and situations. Perhaps after praying, you could respectfully ask them to talk to you and then listen to some of their concerns. Don't get defensive or demanding. Just listen. Perhaps you will have the opportunity to have a second talk and you can address their concerns or reasons for not allowing you to school at home, or with your friend's mother. If they are open, perhaps your friend's mother can talk to your parents.

If your parents do decide to homeschool you, they do not have to go at alone. There are lots of homeschool support groups, co-ops and other opportunities for involvement and help. I'd be happy to help connect you to a group in your area.

I hope this helps you Joli; I will pray for you!
Please feel free to post any other comments or questions that you have. Other website visitors may also post their advice and help too.
Blessings,
Heather