In today’s world, the conversation around public education often leans toward its shortcomings. While I have friends who advocate for home schooling and create structured, enriching environments for their kids, I find myself contemplating why I don’t share the same enthusiasm. As I sip my Diet Coke, enjoying a moment of peace while my children are at school, I reflect on my own parenting journey.
This morning, with my partner working night shifts, I took on the task of preparing the kids for school. The chaotic scene unfolded something like this: “Emma, put your shoes on! Emma, don’t forget to brush your hair. Wait, what did you just do? You wiped your nose and now it’s in your bangs? You’re ten! Why am I still putting your shoes on?” Then there’s Noah, who I coax to eat his breakfast: “No, you can’t take three oranges for a snack—you didn’t even eat the one I packed yesterday!” As the clock ticks down, the familiar panic sets in, and I’m yelling about being late, transforming from an overwhelmed parent into a drill sergeant.
As I navigate the carpool line, juggling my frustrations, I can’t help but notice a neighbor’s sympathetic wave when my water cup tumbles off the roof. Ignoring it, I try to focus on the task at hand, yelling at the kids to hurry out of the car. The chaos continues as Noah struggles with the heavy door, and I find myself pleading with Emma to assist him. It’s in moments like these that I understand the appeal of home schooling—yet I still resist.
Returning home, I’m greeted by my youngest, who is three and a half, and I’m reminded of my sister-in-law, who home-schools her children with apparent ease. Her house is immaculate, and her organization skills are enviable. It’s easy to feel inadequate in comparison, but I’ve come to embrace the idea that home schooling isn’t right for us at this point.
I hold a teaching degree, but my approach to education is different. I teach my kids valuable life lessons—like how to empty the dishwasher and that being unkempt isn’t the best way to make friends. I focus on imparting knowledge that isn’t confined to traditional subjects; I teach them about the world around them and how to navigate it. These lessons are equally important as academic knowledge.
I’m learning to let go of the guilt associated with not pursuing home schooling. Right now, I find comfort in leaving the teaching to qualified educators while I master the art of getting my kids to school on time. For more insights into family planning, consider reading about home insemination techniques or check out resources like the March of Dimes for pregnancy information.
In summary, while I appreciate the merits of home schooling and recognize its success for others, I have accepted that it’s not the right fit for my family at this time. Instead, I will continue to focus on the teachings of everyday life and the joys of parenting.