Homeschooling is one of the fastest growing educational philosophies in the United States and around the world. As a result, experts from a variety of backgrounds have studied, written about, and spoken about the potential benefits and disadvantages of homeschooling. In this article, we will explore what experts have concluded about homeschooling through exploring various topics.
Researchers Conclusions
In recent years, a variety of researchers have conducted research and written papers on the topic of homeschooling. A number of studies have concluded that homeschooled students do better academically than their traditionally-schooled peers.
Other research has shown that homeschooled students are more likely to get involved in extracurricular activities, visit museums, and participate in volunteer work. Additionally, research has suggested that homeschooled students are more independent, self-reliant, and creative. However, some research has suggested that homeschooled students do not as well as their traditionally-schooled peers when it comes to complex problem solving and applications of knowledge.
Additionally, homeschooled students have reportedly been found to be more socially isolated than traditionally-schooled students. As a result, researchers suggest that homeschooled students should find ways to socialize and develop social skills, such as joining homeschool extra-curricular activities and volunteer work.
Legal Considerations
Homeschooling is legal in all 50 states, but the laws governing homeschooling vary from state to state. Generally, homeschooling parents just have to comply with state mandatory requirements, such as submitting immunization records and filing annual paperwork with the state. Additionally, some states have additional requirements, such as standardized testing and other assessments to ensure that homeschooled students are up to standard.
Experts suggest that homeschooling parents follow the laws of their state or country carefully and make sure to properly document their child’s academic progress periodically. Additionally, some states have special legal protections for homeschooling families, such as immunity from truancy laws, so experts suggest that parents research their state’s regulations when they are considering whether to homeschool or not.
Social Challenges
Experts suggest that homeschooling parents be proactive in helping their children to develop social skills. Homeschooled students, especially those who are not involved in extracurricular activities and homeschool support groups, can lack the necessary social skills to interact and make friends with other children.
As a result, experts suggest that homeschooling parents create and participate in activities, joining local homeschool support groups and encouraging their children to get involved in volunteer work. Additionally, experts suggest that parents should take the initiative to set up playdates with other homeschooled students and non-homeschooled students.
Educational Structure
Another factor that experts suggest homeschooling parents consider is the educational structure of their homeschool. Many homeschooling parents choose to use a homeschool curriculum and instructional booklets, while others prefer to use a more self-guided approach.
Additionally, some homeschooling parents choose to have an extracurricular or subject specialist act as an instructor for their child. While some homeschooling parents choose to school their children year-round, others prefer a traditional school-year structure. Experts suggest that homeschooling parents should choose an educational structure that works for their children and families.
It is important for parents to consider their child’s individual needs and preferences, as well as their own strengths and weaknesses when choosing an educational structure.
Financial Considerations
Experts suggest that homeschooling parents consider the financial implications of homeschooling. Homeschooling parents may need to purchase homeschooling materials and supplies, often at considerable cost. Other costs may include the cost of joining extracurricular activities, homeschool curriculum costs, and books and other reading materials.
Homeschooling parents may also need to factor in the opportunity costs of homeschooling, such as the parent’s income and the cost of childcare. Homeschooling parents may also have to consider legal costs, as some states require homeschooled students to take standardized tests or assessments.
Additionally, in some cases, parents may need to hire an attorney to handle any legal disputes regarding homeschooling.
Parental Readiness
Experts also suggest that homeschooling parents consider their own readiness for homeschooling. Homeschooling parents will need not only a commitment to teaching their children, but also the necessary skills to teach their children. Additionally, homeschooling parents will need to have the necessary infrastructure and psychological preparedness to take on the responsibility of homeschooling their children.
Homeschooling parents should consider whether they have the adequate time to commit to homeschooling, as it requires significant amounts of precursory establishment and preparation. Additionally, parents should consider whether they have the necessary level of psychological preparedness to manage the stress of homeschooling and other parenting responsibilities.
Conclusion
Overall, experts agree that homeschooling can be a beneficial experience for children and parents. However, it is essential for homeschooling parents to carefully consider the various topics discussed in this article, including academics, legalities, social aspects, educational structure, financial needs, and parental readiness.
Additionally, homeschooling parents should take the necessary steps to ensure that their children will receive a quality education and social development. By taking the advice of experts and doing their research, homeschooling parents can give their children the best opportunity to grow and succeed.