3. How did your children feel
about being taken out of
school?
They hated it! There are lots of
home-schooled families where the children genuinely enjoy the process.
We were just not one of those families. Our kids experienced a range
of feelings about being home schooled, and they were fairly consistent
throughout the 9-year process. Initially they were confused because
much of what happened was rather subtle and difficult for them to
absorb. They felt a great deal of resentment because they wanted to
return to school and to their friends and they were very angry that
their arguments did not result in any substantial change. Those were
the feelings they articulated to us on a daily basis, so I’m certain
of those. What were less obvious were the feelings expressed through
their actions. They felt a great deal of respect and trust for us and
our ability to make sound decisions on their behalf as evidenced by
their conduct. They were very, very angry, but they were also very,
very obedient-they did everything we asked of them, which was amazing.
4. What about the
socialization?
Be creative and open-minded.
Remember, all socialization is not good; Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gasey,
and Jeffrey Dahmer all went to school. Look for holistic, positive,
stimulating opportunities to engage your kids.
