Support

How many times have I cringed when attending an event because I know the questions will arise? Making the choice to homeschool is a very personal decision for each family.  Each caretaker weighs the options and chooses the best path for their child.  I have been doing this for awhile so I can dodge the snarky comments and avoid the anger (mostly). Being judged by anyone is not fun, but what about when it’s your support system?

The decision made, you are excited.  You rush to tell your parents, your siblings and other close family. Only, you are met with doubt, confusion, and sometimes open hostility.  You put on a smile, (or not) while you try to put into words this deeply personal decision.  

Now the questions start.  “How will they learn to stand in line?” Yes, I was asked this.  “Will they even learn to socialize?”  Really? I thought we got past that one.  “How will you know if they are learning what their peers are?” I’m homeschooling for a reason. “Will they ever get into college?” Really?  Just really?

Then you go to your friends for support.  There you get, “I could never deal with my kids all day.” Maybe they don’t know how this sounds. Or better yet, “I wish I could afford to stay home and do nothing.”  Maybe they don’t know that the choice to give up at least a part-time income and at most a full-time job means you make choices. That you choose to spend money on learning materials, or field trips, instead of girls night out, or a concert.  For some of us it means driving an older car to avoid a new payment, or putting off buying ourselves new shoes because we saw a new learning aid that we have to have.  

Some of us search for a community that understands, one that embraces us and our choices. That is what I found with Wake Forest Homeschoolers.  If we are lucky we find a tribe where we can get advice on the best way to teach fractions, or someone to talk to after that last fight with your mom about socialization.  

Support is key.  If you don’t find it in your circle of friends and family, then extend your circle.  We are lucky to be homeschooling in a time where you can find a group by just searching the web. It may take a bit of looking, and not every group is right for everyone, but it is worth the hunt when you find your support.