Since we started homeschooling I have had several people, friends and strangers, say things like “I wouldn’t even know how to get started homeschooling.”

These next few posts will address that statement.

The decision:
The decision to homeschool cannot and should not be taken lightly.  When a family is discussing their educational options, the majority of them are talking about city versus county schools or private versus public schools.  If, as a mother (or father), you have felt like homeschooling might be beneficial for your family then you are facing decisions that will be much different than the ones your peers are making.

First things first:
As a Christian the first thing you should do is pray.  Often times, only one parent will feel the call to homeschool.  This was the case with my husband and I.  Although I was tempted and probably did try and “talk him into it” his agreement came only after he had time to seek what God would have for our family.  I remember telling begging him “please pray about it! If you get a definite NO from God then I will accept that.” Thankfully, God did not give him that no. 

Your sacrifice:
If you are a family that already has one parent at home then the decision to homeschool will just be a natural progression as far as finances are concerned.  If you are a two-income family, however, you and your spouse will have to make a plan as to how you will survive with less money. 

There is also the sacrifice of freedom.  For some stay-at-home moms that 5 year old birthday means a ticket to at least a few hours of peace, time to clean, shop, pursue a hobby, etc.  The reality is that if you homeschool, your kids are with you all day. The free time you do have you will need to spend some  a lot of your time making lesson plans and other school related tasks that as the teacher will  be your responsibility. 

Your family’s decision to homeschool is a lifestyle decision that seeps into every part of your family’s life.  (To me, that’s one of the best things about it – but that’s for another post.)

Your declaration:
Unfortunately, many people are still “in the dark” about homeschooling.  I am not saying that to belittle others or exalt homeschoolers.  What I am saying is that well meaning grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, etc. may not be happy with your decision to homeschool.  This negative response comes mainly from their lack of knowing exactly what homeschooling is, not how it is depicted in movies or extreme news cases. 

When you tell your loved ones that you have decided to homeschool, don’t feel like you need to be ready for the next great debate.  Just say “We wanted to let you know that instead of sending little Johnny to XYZ elementary, we have decided to homeschool.”  When the wailing and gnashing of teeth stops and the questions start, just remain calm and say “This is what we have prayed about and feel God is calling us to do as a family right now.”  

Just remember this is your child.

Stay tuned…more on how to get started homeschooling coming up tomorrow!