It is interesting to say the least to watch peoples’ faces when you tell them you plan on home schooling a child. I’ve just recently experienced this. My mother, she loves me but she doesn’t think it is the right thing to do. Kids need to be around other kids, that socialization is so important. I understand Mom and that is why we went with this program, because they have monthly family get togethers with the teachers.
They meet places for field trips and they even have live “classroom time”. The teacher is basically video conferencing with the students and if they have questions they can ask then and there and get the answers they need. The teacher can’t see the students but the students can see the teacher. If you miss one of these classes they are on video as well, afterwards.
Well, you know that means you’ll have to actually get involved and take her to these things…. Ya think Mom? Cause I was hoping she’d just catch the bus or something… they have those out in the country right? Yes, I know I’ll be the one required to take her to these functions, yes I know it will be hard, yes I am willing to do it…. Do you not think I’ve thought about those very same things?
It is ok though. I understand.
My MIL is all for it. That was the reason she encouraged Grandpa to buy my daughter a new computer when hers died. She needed one for school. (The school actually provides one) FIL was not really hip to the idea when it was first brought up. He wanted the socialization as well. Until I told him all the things she went through this year, explained in detail the sexual context of her harassment. Then he jumped on the bandwagon.
It is ok though. I understand…. this is just the beginning. People will have doubts until they see the results. On the news once a month they feature an exception student and even my Mother must admit there have been quite a few home schooled kids featured.
I’ve been visiting more home school blogs and I have so far been impressed. I have yet to find a home school family with older kids like my daughter but I’m sure I’ll find some. I know my husband has several home schooled kids that come into his store during the day and they are her age or older so there has to be some nearby for us too.
When they called the other day to verify some information, make sure our address was correct to ship the materials she’ll need and some other stuff, it became real. It became exciting. If it was my son, I’d be scared crazy because I know I couldn’t do it. I wouldn’t have the patience.
We shall see…
I can not fail.
As you know, I’m homeschooling my high-schooler and I cannot possibly say enough good things about it. He’s a handfull and that makes it harder. I think you are absolutely right to school your daughter at home.
Comment by Mimi — Wednesday, April 9, 2008 @ 5:18 am
You won’t fail. You and your daughter will do Just Fine!!
Comment by Patti — Friday, April 11, 2008 @ 9:45 am