People.... Homeschool Opposition

by April K.
(Michigan)

How can I respond to family members that ask.."why" or "what about having time for yourself" or "what about socializing them" "don't you want them to have a normal school experience?" HELP ME...

My response: Those are tough questions to be asked when you are new to homeschooling. They are even tough questions for those of us that have been homeschooling for a while.

Basically, I tell people that no one else has to answer for how your children are educated but YOU. In the end, your mother in law, neighbor, sibling or anyone else will not be the one to answer to God for how your child was raised and educated.

You need to be convinced that what you are doing is what you are called to do for your child. If you believe that you are responsible to homeschool your child, then all the "people" need to trust you that you are doing what you feel is in the best interest of your child.

You don't have to worry about high school if they are still in first grade. Tell them you are taking it one step at a time and that you would rather have their support than their questions.

If they see that you are convinced that homeschooling is best for your child right now, they should be more likely to just accept your decision. If they continue to harass you, then you might want to spend less time with them.

I hope this has helped you. Let me know if you need more help than this.