When Is It Time to Stop Homeschooling?

Deciding to homeschool is a difficult decision for many families. Deciding when to stop homeschooling can be even tougher.

Homeschool parents have so many options for their children's education. They can homeschool all through high school if they choose to. Or they can homeschool just for a year or two, to get their child over a rough spot.

Our family began homeschooling the year our son started grade four. His dislike of school was affecting his learning and I hoped that being home with me would improve his grades and help him develop a genuine love of learning.

I fully intended to homeschool him as long as necessary, and six years later, I've realized I've achieved that goal, and my son is ready to go back to school. While many homeschooled students return to a traditional school for their high school years, my son will be attending a virtual school from home.

No matter how long you've been homeschooling, if you're wondering if it's time to stop, here are some things to consider.

Why did you start homeschooling in the first place? My very specific goal was to instill a love of learning into my son. When I realized we had achieved that goal, I had to reconsider my reasons for continuing to homeschool. If you've achieved your homeschooling goals, it doesn't necessarily mean that you should send your kids back to a classroom. It's just one of the aspects to consider.

Are you prepared to continue homeschooling? Homeschooling is a fulltime job all by itself, never mind everything else you have to do in a day. If you're feeling like you need a break, and you're running out of energy, it might be time to consider going back. I wasn't prepared to facilitate high school level courses for my son. I felt more comfortable giving someone else that responsibility.

How does your child feel about going back to school? Many families I've spoken with who have put their children back in school, did so because their children wanted to go to school. They had been homeschooled throughout their entire education, and wanted to see what they were missing. If your child is asking to go to school, it might be time to look into it.

Have you considered all your alternatives? There are so many educational choices besides homeschooling and traditional schools. If homeschooling isn't working 100% for you, but you're not sure about sending the kids back to school, explore your options. Some schools allow homeschooled students to attend part time. My children attend a virtual school from home. In some areas, you can partner with other homeschool families and set up learning co-ops. The options for your child's education are almost endless.

Deciding to stop homeschooling your children is a very personal decision. There are many reasons to stop, just as there are hundreds of reasons to continue. Whether you decide to continue or to go back to school, the most important question to answer is... what's right for your family?

Article Source: http://www.wahm-articles.com

Denise Willms is mom to two teenagers and owner of www.WAHM-Articles.com where she publishes articles written by work at home moms, for work at home moms. Subscribe to her newsletter WAHM Tips and get weekly work at home tips from work-at-home-moms who have been there and done that.

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