Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Not Back to School!

Today we celebrated not going back to school with a bunch of other homeschoolers. I always look forward to this time of the year because all of our favorite spots are no longer crowded. We can take time to explore without being trampled by a group of summer camp kids. It's nice.

I have started to hear a bit of criticism about not sending my sweet girl to school to be with other kids. I've heard that it's a shame to keep her at home instead of with her peers. Well, I suppose it would be a shame if all we did was stay home and "do school". Homeschooling is nothing like going to school. We don't spend hours a day in a classroom. Our lessons might take 10 minutes or they might take an hour. We might scrap the lesson altogether so we can hunt for tadpoles or splash in puddles. If my kids need to burn off some energy, we don't have to wait for recess. Maeve and Finn have many opportunities to play and learn with other kids. We go to park day every week with other homeschoolers and meet often with friends. Maeve will attend an art class. Finn will be in a bowling league. They are properly socialized and have the ability to interact with people of all ages.

Homeschooling is not just school at home. It's a lifestyle. I am lucky to be part of this journey with our children and am excited to see what they will amaze me with tomorrow.

1 comment:

Mama Podkayne said...

Yes, exactly. We don't stay at home either and I love how my girls will hold a polite conversation with just about anyone!