View from the other side of the fence

Isn’t it interesting to see things from a different perspective? For several years I have been in contact with other homeschoolers — as a mom who had no desire to do the same. They were always positive, welcoming and kind, as were their well-behaved, well-spoken children. I made some bold comments about homeschooling in their presence. At times these comments probably made their skin crawl at my blatant ignorance of their choice and their lifestyle.

Yes, homeschooling is a lifestyle choice.

These wonderful ladies, whose views I now share, were never openly critical of me or my choice to send my children to public school. They shared in my struggles, prayed over my children’s hardships and successes, and they prayed for me to follow God’s will — regardless of where that may lead me. Now, crossing over to the “other side” has had its own pros and cons, but I don’t regret it one bit because I know I am following the lead of the One who loves my children more than I ever could.

As a new homeschooler, sometimes I find myself in a position of defending our family’s decision. I am getting more comfortable with my response, but I still bristle a bit inside when faced with a challenger who so obviously has no clue about homeschooling or its advantages for the children as well as their parents.

What keeps me in check is remembering how a short time ago I was in their shoes. I hadn’t read anything about homeschooling. I had no idea the success of homeschooled students at the university level. I didn’t know there were over three million homeschoolers nationwide. I was clueless to the over four million websites and connections for homeschoolers on the internet. I have been pleasantly surprised to find out that homeschooled children are regularly accelerated in their learning. They are well-adjusted socially, and above average academically.

I understand those who don’t desire to homeschool. I was one of you not so long ago. But I am looking back now from the other side of the fence, and the view from here is better than I ever expected. I enjoy my children far more than I had hoped, and I am getting to know them again in a way that was impossible when someone else had their best hours during the school day. More on that at a later date.