I’ve been around for awhile both in the homeschool, private school and public school scene. Along the way, I’ve noted a few things. Besides the obvious tailoring of the curriculum to the child in homeschooling, to the race to score well in both private and public schools, is one glaring commonality. Parental involvement.
When parents are involved, students are more likely to enjoy learning, retain more of what they learn, and overall have a good academic experience. When parents are not involved, students are more likely to be unfocused, frustrated, and more apt to give up.
While this sounds like common sense, I have met homeschool parents who have simply checked out. Aside from burnout, needing help teaching a subject or two or having a self-sufficient student, your involved presence is still needed!
I understand the pull of checking out when things are stressful and overwhelming. I’ve been there myself! It is imperative in these situations to ask for help! Many moms are shamed or made to feel less than adequate for needing to ask for help, and so remain silent. This happens for a variety of reasons, peer pressure, spousal displeasure, or just plain pride. But at the end of the day, it is necessary to look at the whole picture. Ask yourself, “Is my checking out helping my child learn?” I’m sure I’d get a resounding “no”!
If it’s peer pressure, I would suggest it’s time to change your circle of support. When your support system is built on silence or suppression it’s time to change your support circle or call in backup. Backup can include supportive friends, clergy or other homeschool leaders in your area.
If it’s inability in an area of instruction, networking to find a suitable instructor is definitely in order. You aren’t alone! There’s someone out there with a class or another family who’s deficient where you are able to help. Why not consider trading classes?
If you are blessed with a child who is self-sufficient and needs very little oversight, they still need your support and involvement. You’ve done an amazing job getting them to learn on their own. Continue to be present within their schooling day to make sure they get across the finish line. You’ve come to far with them to not make sure they finish this portion of the race!
No matter the stage or educational philosophy, your children need you to be a present presence in their educational experience. Their success and desire for learning depend on you!
