It’s an increasingly common sight in homes across the United States—children and parents clashing over schooling preferences. For some families, homeschooling has long been a preferred educational avenue, whereas for others, the concept has recently come to the fore due to recent events in the academic landscape.
In either case, the goal of reaching a resolution with a reluctant learning partner often seems difficult and out of reach. But this need not be the case! Here, we’ve compiled 15 questions to help you guide the discussion with your child when they refuse to homeschool.
Question 1: Are You Feeling Overwhelmed by Schoolwork?
When your child resists the switch to homeschooling, it’s important to investigate the source of the conflict. Often, it comes down to feelings of being overwhelmed by the amount of work involved in the traditional methods of education. If this is the case, you’ll want to start the discussion off by understanding the cause of the issue.
To shed light on this, ask your child more detailed questions such as “What topics do you feel most weighed down by?” or “What aspects of school are the most cumbersome?
” Be sure to listen and validate your child’s emotions. Once you’ve gathered the pertinent information, leverage this to explain the potential benefits of homeschooling. The crux of the issue is usually that homeschooling offers an alternative environment for learning—one which can be tailored specifically to a child’s individual needs or abilities.
Thus, helping them to manage the workload without feeling overwhelmed.
Question 2: Are You Concerned About Social Engagement?
For many kids, the thought of being removed from the traditional public-school system causes anxiety about loss of social connections or associations with their peers. An often-overlooked part of the homeschooling process is that there are plenty of ways to help kids stay socially active.
For instance, many homeschoolers join co-ops or attend classes at local libraries or other community centers. These types of programs offer more of a structured learning environment while still allowing children to engage with their peers. Engage your child in the discussion by asking them questions like, “What activities and events would you like to join with other homeschoolers?
” or “What outlets would you use to stay in touch with your friends?” When they’re able to express their own interests, it can help to foster a desire and even an excitement to explore homeschooling.
Question 3: Are There Other Reasons You Don’t Feel Read to Homeschool?
Other times, there are issues that are harder to detect. Oftentimes, children may fear that the change in schooling will lead to changes in the family dynamic.
After all, when parents become teachers, the traditional roles become blurred. Addressing this issue is important before making the switch to homeschooling—especially so if you have multiple children. Ask questions that open up the dialogue such as “What do you need to feel comfortable homeschooling?
” or “What ideas do you have to help us make the transition?” This will allow your child to voice any fears or anxieties they may have about the process.
Question 4: Are You Worried About Falling Behind Academically?
It’s also common for kids to be concerned about falling behind academically or maintaining a competitive edge if they switch to homeschooling. Though it’s true that it can be challenging to juggle work for various classes and without a teacher in the home, this can create an opportunity for the parent-child relationship and a great way to differentiate learning. For instance, homeschoolers may find that they’re able to explore topics held dear more in-depth, as well as have the freedom to move through the curriculum more quickly.
Beyond that, this can help families look into more independent study opportunities and activities geared toward exploring a child’s individual interests. To discuss these topics with your child, you might ask questions such as “What topics do you find the most interesting?
” and “What projects could you work on that could help you expand your knowledge?”
Question 5: Are You Worried About Missing Out on Things?
Finally, some kids fear that they’ll miss out on typical childhood experiences. Of course, it’s reasonable for children to be scared of sacrificing conventional childhood activities such as playing on a sports team or hosting a sleepover with friends.
That said, it’s important to note that there are plenty of opportunities for them to still participate in such events and activities outside the realm of traditional schooling. Again, co-ops, classes, and recreational programs may provide great avenues for your child to stay socially connected and engaged in activities that they still want to engage in. When having a discussion about this, parents can ask questions like “What types of activities would you like to partake in?
” and “What would you need in order to still feel participated while homeschooling?” This can enable a deeper understanding of what your child is looking for in order to be comfortable with the switch to homeschooling.
Conclusion
It can be understandably difficult to broach the subject with a reluctant homeschooler. But with patience, understanding and organized thought, many families can come to a happy resolution. When talking to your child, it’s helpful to remember that listening to their issues and addressing each topic to their convenience and understanding can be instrumental in aiding the process.
By respectfully sifting through the subject carefully and exploring each topic in depth, you can both come to a place of contentment.