When someone shares that they homeschool, do others automatically think that homeschooled children are going to miss out on…something? I’d be lying if I said that I haven’t worried about this myself. Not what others think, but whether my children will be missing out. And if I’m being completely honest, I wonder if there are things I too am missing out on. But with every choice we make as parents, there will always give and take. And deep down I believe that what my family has gained far outweighs anything that could be perceived as loses. See the thing about being a homeschooling parent is seeing the joy of missing out.
Miss Out#1 Back to School Rush. As a homeschool parent, I’m not free from needing to replace clothes that are worn out or just outgrown. And the need for school supplies is still real. But I don’t have to spend hundreds to prepare my girls for any upcoming school year. I just buy as the need arises. Of course, I will take full advantage of the back to school sales, but I won’t be part of the frenzy.
Miss Out#2 Early Mornings. I have NEVER been a morning person, so it is hard for me to require my kids to be any different. So it is a relief that school days don’t begin in a rush to beat the clock while everyone is struggling to wake up.
Miss Out#3 What to Wear. This use to be a constant battle. At night everyone would lay out their clothes for the next day, but when the next morning arrive so did the problems. Whether it was a change of weather or a change of heart, this always had the potential to cause us to run late. Now getting dress is more about if we’ll change out of our pjs anytime today.
Miss Out#4 Late Nights. After spending all day at school behind a desk, I hated watching the same thing happen when they got home. Hours of homework often might no downtime. Now, we take time on each subject as needed, and if it doesn’t get done today, well there’s always tomorrow. So long to long days. And goodbye to late nights, unless it’s movie night that is.
Miss Out#5 Scheduling Conflicts. I don’t have to worry about doctor appointments messing with their perfect attendance. Or missing a visit from out of town family because my kids can’t afford to be out on test day. I can work around events without feeling the need to play catch up later. Which is a relief for both my girls and me. Thanks to the flexibility of homeschooling we are in control of setting priorities.
Miss Out#6 Parent/Teacher Conferences. I have never enjoyed these. When my children were doing well, the meetings seemed unnecessary. I don’t need a pat on the back Ms. Smith, just the hour back that I spent sitting in that tiny uncomfortably chair. And if my children were struggling in a particular area then we (parent/teacher) need to be working on it daily. Waiting months after the fact is counterproductive. Today, I am thoroughly informed. I know what my girls strengthen, and weakness first hand and can adjust lessons/teaching appropriately.
Miss Out#7 Missing Out. You read that right. From field trips to award ceremonies. With multiple children, there’s always a real chance of missing out on someone’s special day. But not anymore. I get to plan our activities occasionally. And bonus we get to include dad’s schedule so he can participate without taking vacation days.
Miss Out#8 Fundraisers. I utterly despise asking family/friends to spend money on things they probably don’t want or need. I also didn’t like being a collector with my loved ones or feeling obligated to return the favor when fundraiser time came around for them. That’s all a distant memory now. If you ever hear us asking for money, it will be for a good cause. We are always ready to help organizations that are close to our hearts.
Miss Out#9 Saying Goodbye. With new classrooms, friends, and teachers things can be a little overwhelming for both mother and child at any age/stage. And drop-offs in the morning were true trials by fire. I know all too well that one day I’ll be saying my tearful goodbyes when they’re off to college, but for now, I love getting to spend our days in the Hello’s.
Yes, as homeschooling parents we may be missing out on things, but JOY isn’t one of them.
Calling all homeschoolers, did I miss anything on my list? If so fly me a message or comment below.