A Homeschooling Adventure

Homeschooling

The word conjures up different images and ideas for different people. I think in our society, often negative. Over the years I have been guilty of stereotyping myself. Often I thought of socially awkward children. Admittedly, I knew some. As a former public school teacher I was a firm defender of "The System," of which I was a part. I felt, a good part.

Living Lithe

Brent and I make a point of not being afraid to change. To be flexible and open to new ideas. It keeps my mind nimble and lithe. So here is how my brain has been twisting and flexing the last couple months....

They are Only Young Once

My little Ellery is set to enter first grade next year. The idea has been troubling me. Turning my six-year-old over to strangers for eight hours of her day, during her most malleable years distresses me.

According to The Family: A Proclamation to the World (the LDS churches' statement on the divine role and purpose of families)

"Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children."

While she is so little it is something we feel we need to try. If it doesn't work we go from there. Clearly, I want her to be excited and happy. I spoke with the principal of her elementary school and he was very accommodating and supportive.

Ellery is excited to learn piano, cooking, gardening, sewing, reading, math, spelling...I am going to take a wholistic approach. Interestingly enough, in college, I was a research assistant for one of my education professors. Our research focused on intrinsic learning and problems with the way schools are set up with bells, grades, and extrinsic motivators. It seems I am coming full circle now.


Not Afraid to Fail

I am also a realist. With three little children at home, it will be challenging. We'll see how it all works out. I have spoken with her principal. He was very supportive. His quote was "Of course I am possessive of them, we want them here all day... (then he caught himself)...but of course we are here to support the family and not the family to support the school." I responded "Certainly you understand I am possessive of my own child and want her with me." Communication will be key.