There are many great public and
private schools, but home school models true learning by channeling the child
into natural learning experiences. This is not a new concept.
Before the urbanization of the
United States, attending school was not feasible for many people in rural
areas. These families taught their children how to read and write, and do
numbers just as they did everything else.
Somewhere in there, they still
managed create a world power and win the west. On the other side, the wealthy
have been hiring private tutors since the dawn of time.
In the 21st century, many parents
choose home schooling as a means to have more control over their child's
development. The resources are infinitely better.
Libraries, museums, bookstores and
community programs ranging from music and art, to quilting and knitting, are
all at the full disposal of the student.
For many creative students, this is
the optimum format. An artistic student may have the flexibility to
aggressively pursue their art or even begin careers in fields like art,
writing, dance, theater, music or recording.
Gifted children and special need
students, may thrive under individualized attention not available in regular
school.
Students having difficulty in school
may also benefit from a slower paced environment. Sometimes, parents may find
that they do not connect with their child academically.
In this case, it would be wise to
seek the help of a family friend or relative to assist, or to take over the
home school.
Home school families must be
prepared to invest considerable time and money into their school. Home school
textbooks run about the same as college texts, and community classes and activity
fees can add up as well.