As the number of homeschooling families continues to grow, so does the amount of diversity within this community! Gone are the days of homeschooling being a primarily Christian endeavor. So, what does this mean for you?
For me, living within a primarily Christian community, the knowledge of this growing multitude took some getting used to. I knew that we are not supposed to hide our light, but just how involved did I want to become with these “other” homeschoolers?
Our move to a larger homeschooling area soon forced a change in my thinking. We got involved in many groups and enlarged our circle to groups that were not exclusively Christian. Here’s what we found. Instead of being met with ridicule or scoffing, these parents welcomed us. When we found it necessary to bow out of certain activities or ask if we could modify our involvement, we were met with kindness and accommodation. During this time, my kids also learned the richness of other cultures, how to speak life while enjoying their company without compromising personal core beliefs. Rather than feeling excluded, we all gained a fresh perspective on those who did not have a relationship with Jesus. And, with that fresh perspective, began to actively pray for and help those people. I know not everyone has the same experience. But, I can honestly say I don’t believe this would have happened had we stayed in our former spot.
So while the homeschooling community has gotten more diverse, their reasons for homeschooling strike the same similarity as within the Christian community. Religious freedom. Scholastic freedom. Freedom from bullying. No matter the belief, we are all focused on one purpose, and that purpose is to educate and love our children. And that’s what homeschooling is all about!
Check out the many homeschooling resources at Rainbow Resource Center!
