Homeschooling is a growing trend in the United States and around the world, and the question that many parents ask is whether or not homeschooled kids do better. Despite being a relatively new educational approach, there are a few studies that suggest homeschooled children may indeed perform better than those in traditional schools.
In this article, we will examine the research and discuss the pros and cons of homeschooling.
What Does the Research Say?
There have been a few small-scale studies that suggest homeschooled children may do better than those in traditional schools. A 2010 study conducted by Margaret Hess and Ronald Gallimore found that homeschooled children had higher GPA’s, higher standardized test scores, increased participation in advanced placement courses, and higher scores on college entrance exams. Other researchers, such as Benny Bush, have found that homeschooled children have higher academic success rates due to the fact that they often have better work habits.
In a study by Ray and Walker, researchers found that homeschooled children had a higher level of personal development than their traditionally schooled counterparts. They found that homeschooled children often have a more authoritative parenting style, which leads to fewer behavioral issues, higher levels of self-direction and self-discipline, and increased self-esteem.
Finally, a 2002 study by Robert Kunzman found that homeschoolers often experience greater socialization with peers than their counterparts in traditional schools. His research found that homeschoolers often had increased exposure to a variety of social networking opportunities outside of school, which helped them develop better social skills than their peers.
Pros of Homeschooling
There are several advantages to homeschooling that should be considered before making a decision for your family. First of all, homeschooling allows parents to tailor their children’s education to their specific interests and needs. This can be especially beneficial for children with learning differences or special needs, as well as children who need more flexibility and freedom to pursue their interests.
Additionally, homeschooling provides parents with more control over their children’s learning experiences. Homeschooled children have fewer distractions in their learning environment and can move more quickly through the curriculum, allowing them more time to focus on their interests.
Finally, homeschooled children have more flexibility in the way they go about their education. Homeschoolers can set their own pace, choose their own activities, and take breaks when they need to. This can reduce stress and improve overall learning and academic success.
Cons of Homeschooling
Of course, homeschooling is not without its challenges, and parents should consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision. One of the main disadvantages of homeschooling is the financial cost. Parents must be able to cover the cost of curriculum, field trips, and other materials.
Additionally, some parents worry that homeschooled children may not be adequately prepared for college or the workplace. It is true that homeschooled children may lack certain experiences and skills compared to their traditionally schooled counterparts.
Finally, many parents worry about the amount of time and effort it takes to homeschool. It can be a demanding and time-consuming job, and it can be difficult to balance other responsibilities and commitments.
Conclusion
Overall, homeschooling can be a good choice for many families, but it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons and make sure that it is the right educational choice for your family. Homeschooled children have been found to have higher academic, personal, and social success levels than those in traditional schools, but it is important to keep in mind the time, energy, and cost involved in this educational option.
Ultimately, the decision whether to homeschool or not should be one that is based on the individual needs and preferences of the family.