Is Homeschooling For Me?
Hi friends and welcome back to another blog post. This time it's a bit different because we’re talking about homeschool. Although homeschooling has been around since the beginning of time, it feels as though more recently it’s been causing quite the buzz. Parents who never imagined in a million years are now opting to homeschool. Certainly everyone had a taste of it during last year’s pandemic; and although many knew it wasn’t for them, others felt convicted to take the unconventional educational route for their families.
Today, I have Wendy Zuniga as my guest blogger and who better than her to talk to us about this subject. Wendy has an Associates Degree in Early Education and a Bachelors Degree in Public Administration. She is a wife and a mama of four who are all homeschooled in the Zuniga Academy and have been since day one.
A lot of people reach out to her for advice, recommendations, ideas and suggestions about homeschooling and today she will answer the top five questions that are frequently asked when families are thinking of taking that step.
If you find yourself debating whether you should homeschool or not, I hope this helps! Continue to pray about it, seek guidance and wisdom, do your research and ask questions. At the end, you will know if homeschooling is a good fit for your family.
“We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer.” -Proverbs 16:1
We can make our own plans
but the Lord gives the right answer. -Proverbs 16:1
Top Five Homeschooling FAQ
By: Wendy Zuniga
1. Why do parents decide to homeschool? Parents decide to homeschool for various reasons but I find that there are often three main ones:
a) A flexible schedule. With homeschooling you are able to create your own schedule and work around any family functions, work schedules or other needs your family may have.
b) Religious or political beliefs. Certain views are being forced and taught in the school system. Over the last couple of years, many parents have decided to pull their children out of traditional schools to ensure that their own beliefs and views is what is being instilled in the their child.
c) Education. Many parents find that what’s being taught and how it is being taught is not effective for their child. The amount of hours children spend in school does not equate to efficient learning. Most of their day is filled with “filler time” because the students-teaching time depends on their grade level and attention span. For example a kindergartner can receive all the information they need within forty-five minutes and retain that information instead of being taught for eight hours.
2. Is it cheaper to homeschool than to send a child to public or private school?
Homeschooling your child is definitely cheaper than private school and depending on if you send lunch or pay for lunch, it can also be less expensive than public school.
This year alone, I spent $300 on all four of my kids’ curriculums. I’m also using a couple of different ones because they vary in age. It’s evident that the way you personally choose to homeschool affects costs, you can easily get caught up on items you purchase and spend a lot of money. There are also tons of free and budget-friendly resources and ideas available so that you don’t have to break the bank.
3. How does homeschooling benefit the child?
Homeschooling benefits your child because the teachings are one-on-one, hence having more teacher attention. Other benefits include: learning at their own pace, they’re also able to take the number of breaks needed, this is especially helpful when you have young ones.
Another perk is they can have class anywhere and not necessarily be confined to one specific area. Different areas provide different environments and opportunities for learning. For example scheduling a family day to go out to the zoo will not only be fun for the child but also educational. Be intentional. Everything you do and the places you go with your child will always be a “classroom”, an opportunity for them to learn while they enjoy the experience.
4. Do homeschoolers have to take standardized tests?
Homeschoolers and standardized testing is going to depend where you live. Every state has their own rules, regulations and requirements. I would recommend you research accordingly. This is a great website to get more information. https://hslda.org/legal
5. What would you tell a family who is considering homeschool but don’t know where to begin?
Consistency and commitment are key. My recommendation is to ask yourself this question, am I willing to be consistent and commit to homeschooling? Be honest.
We spoke about the benefits of homeschooling and obviously it provides the flexibility a traditional school doesn’t; however it requires hard work and sacrifice. It requires consistency and commitment. It’s easy to “put it off for later or for tomorrow”. It’s fairly simple to get distracted and prioritize other things. Again, consistency and commitment are key and of utter importance to be successful.
Another thing I’ll add is make sure you allocate time to prepare for the week. Make sure you put the five P’s into action: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. Take the time to prepare and know the material before you teach it. Anyone can do it, you don’t need a teaching degree or an educational background, you just need the willingness to stay consistent and committed.
Lastly, I’ll leave you with this: The most important work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own home.” -Harold B. Lee
You got this mama!
Thank you so much Wendy for shedding light on such an important topic. I know this will be beneficial to so many. You can follow her on www.instagram.com/WendyZuniga.
Let us know in the comments section if today’s topic was helpful. Also if you’re a homeschool mama or one who is considering it, share with us your thoughts and experience.
Once again, thank you for reading, commenting, sharing and your overall support. Until next time!
Be Encouraged, Be Blessed!
~landypf