Why I Chose To Homeschool My Kindergartner

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Let’s start this post by saying that my intention is not to bash other educational options besides homeschooling. Instead, I want to shed light on why I chose to homeschool my kids. Homeschooling isn’t for everyone, and that’s ok. However, there are many homeschoolers in middle Tennessee, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular option.

I’ll be the first to say that when I became a mom, I never imagined I would also become a homeschooling mom. I didn’t think that was in the stars for me—especially considering my patience level (or lack thereof). But as my eldest approached kindergarten age, I started to consider homeschooling more and more.

The biggest reason that I chose to homeschool? To control what my kids do and do not learn.

I have a desire to maintain their innocence for as long as possible. The world is a harsh place, and I’m not ready for them to find out just how tough it is. My husband has taught in both public and private schools, and we learned from his experience that teachers are very confined by what they must say and teach their students. 

An awesome thing about homeschooling? The flexibility it affords.

Instead of teaching 13-20 kids in one classroom, I’m teaching one kid (technically I’m teaching all three since they hang around for my kindergartner’s lessons). That’s it. I can tailor lessons for his specific needs and desires. 

For example, we just finished studying a unit about caterpillars, butterflies, and chrysalises. We even had our own butterfly kit that ended with our releasing the butterflies into the great outdoors. My son loved it, and we were able to study at the pace that he set. 

Another great thing about homeschooling? The ability to change learning environments.

We’ve done school on the couch, in a play tent, at a picnic table, in the car, on vacation, at the zoo, in a museum, at the grocery store, etc. Truly any place can become a classroom if you take advantage of your surroundings. This has taught my son adaptability and given him the opportunity to learn in different environments.

There are very few rules in homeschooling.

Obviously there are legal requirements I must meet, but once those are taken care of, I’m free to teach what I want, when I want, and how I want. If my son is struggling through a topic, I’ll put it away and come back to it another day. On the flip side, if he’s really loving something we’re studying, I’ll let him run with it. If he wants to keep learning about the topic, then I keep teaching. 

The possibilities? Endless.

Middle Tennessee offers some amazing opportunities for homeschoolers. Did you know that the zoo offers special homeschool programs? And many parks in the area have homeschool specific nature classes. Libraries and fitness/sports centers are other places that have hopped onto the homeschooling train. I love that I can take my kids on a hike at a local park while a ranger teaches them about edible plants. That’s science 101 right there!

I have no idea how long I’ll be a homeschooling mom. One thing is for sure—I’m enjoying it while I can. I’ve definitely had my fair share of naysayers. And there have been several days where’s it’s been a struggle to convince my son we’re in school mode. But it’s been worth it. To me, the benefits that homeschooling offers far outweigh the drawbacks. Plus? I kinda like hanging out with my kids and watching them learn.

1 COMMENT

  1. You are super mom for taking on this task. Your love of learning/teaching makes you a natural. My grandchildren will be better people because of it!! Thank you!! Love you.

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