Common Homeschooling and Socialization Worries

Deciding to homeschooling is a tough decision for some; for others it's a "no-brainer". Homeschooling and socialization is a very common concern of parents when deciding whether or not to homeschool their child.

#1 I didn't want my kids to "miss out".

#2 I didn't think I could do it.

#3 I wanted "my time".

#4 I didn’t want to look weird, wear my hair in a bun OR wear a jean jumper.

#5 I wanted to pursue a career... "become something" in life. (ha!) :)

What do I know now?
#1 Normal? Yes #2 True? No. #3 Selfish? Yes. #4 Judgmental? Maybe :) #5 Truth? No, there is no greater career than motherhood.

Homeschooling and Socialization Myths

Homeschooling and Socialization Fears

Although homeschooling has been around since the beginning of time, for most of us who grew up going to regular schools, at first home-based education may seem odd and causes us concern.

I totally understand the initial uncertainty.

Some common homeschooling and socialization worries parents experience:

Fear of Missing Out

• the whole going-to-school adventure,
• being with other kids,
• playing on sports teams,
• going to prom, dances or football games.

Young children often can't wait to go to school. They see other kids getting on the big yellow bus, and they want to go too. Kids want to have fun and play, and don't like missing out. The idea of school may excite them because they think they can play with kids all day.

As parents we often struggle with disappointing our children. We don't want to disappoint them; we want to give them the things they want, but most of the time, kids don't know what's best. As parents we need to decide if public school is right for our children, or decide if it's not.

Contrary to what you may hear, your children do not have to be around their peers eight hours per day, every day in order to be socialized or to develop friendships.

Older students and teens need and want friends too.

When you homeschool you will find lots of opportunities for your teens to interact with others, including social events like proms, dances and other get-togethers.

Sports may be very important to you and your child but school is not the only place where they can join sports teams. You will find local teams through the parks and recreation department of your town or city. Homeschool groups often co-ordinate athletics and inter-mural sports as well.

Fear of Over-protection

I have talked to a lot of parents who think that if they homeschool, their children won’t learn how to deal with problems or difficulties, or learn how to "face life"... a common homeschooling and socialization myth.

Are you sheltering your kids if you homeschool? Perhaps. Homeschooled kids do experience less peer pressure and dependency. Not a bad thing in my opinion.

When you homeschool you will have lots of time to strengthen your child's character and "self-esteem". By eliminating the excessive negative and daily influence of their peers, who often mercilessly rip down and damage others, your child will have a greater sense of who they are and better equipped to deal with life when it happens to them.

Life still happens when you homeschool. Problems arise; friends are mean; kids get left out. Don't think that just because you homeschool, hard times won't come. Homeschooling provides a great opportunity; the time to allow you and your child to face each situation together, and the time to work out difficulties in a positive, loving environment.

Fear of the Future

Will my kids turn out okay? Will they graduate successfully? Will they get into college? Will they hate me in the future for keeping them out of school and homeschooling them? Very real homeschooling and socialization concerns.

If your children apply themselves to their studies, there is absolutely no reason why your kids won't get into college. Thousands do each year. Colleges like homeschoolers because they know how to learn; some colleges even seek homeschooled students out because of their academic success.

When you homeschool, you can ensure that your child graduates with ALL the necessary skills to succeed in life; not just academics. Often schools don't teach practical, everyday needed abilities for life... time management, home organization, car maintenance and budgeting.

As your child's teacher, you will know exactly what your kids are learning. If your curriculum isn't covering something you think is important, you can easily modify it to suit your needs and goals.

Will your child hate you for homeschooling them...
Hmmm... that's a hard one. I would venture to say there are some homeschooled students who wish their parents didn't choose to homeschool; however as they mature, the vast majority doesn't resent their parents for homeschooling. Children grow into teens, who grow into adults; they will soon/some day appreciate all the sacrifices made for them – including homeschooling.

Many appreciate the additional benefits that come with home education once they begin college or life on their own. They have learned how to study and possess the character qualities to succeed on their own... and many do!

Have A Great Story About This Topic?

Do you have a great homeschool socialization story, a timely tip or word of encouragement? Share it!

Maybe you are considering homeschooling, but are afraid your kids will miss out if they don't go to school, or they won't develop properly. Share your questions/fears... we'll try to help! :)

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