“Homeschooling is incredibly challenging,” “I need a drink after homeschooling,” and “the reality of homeschool life is intense” are just a few remarks I’ve encountered since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and remote learning. Parents who previously criticized homeschooling families are now experiencing firsthand the remarkable commitment and resilience that these families have shown for years.
I have been homeschooling my children intermittently for six years. My journey began with my second child, who had a birthday that placed her just outside the cutoff for kindergarten. Rather than search for a transitional class—which can be hard to find—I chose to homeschool her, imparting essential kindergarten skills before she officially started. I also homeschooled my third-grader for several months after a particularly tough experience in public school. Currently, I am homeschooling my fourth child, who also falls just short of the pre-kindergarten cutoff.
Each decision to homeschool was met with skepticism, admiration, and doubt. Some friends would admit, “I could never do that,” revealing their own insecurities. I often joked that homeschooling didn’t mean my kids would be social misfits, nor did it mean I would don a long skirt and churn butter—though if that’s your thing, go for it!
Homeschooling carries numerous advantages, but I want to emphasize that it’s a privilege. It requires substantial sacrifice, including time, energy, and financial resources. I recognize that not everyone has the opportunity to homeschool, even if they wish to. Many factors influence the decision to homeschool or not.
For my family, homeschooling has been a rewarding experience. When one of my children struggled significantly in public school, homeschooling allowed us to reconnect. Their confidence transformed from nonexistent to thriving. We enjoyed enriching field trips, such as visiting a local coffee company to learn about bean shipping and roasting, which led to a research project on environmental issues, manufacturing, and marketing.
Our learning environment was far from traditional. Picture jazz music playing softly while we sat in sunlight at the kitchen table, learning at our own pace. My child rediscovered a love for learning, curiosity, and a sense of security.
Eventually, my children transitioned back to private or public schools. Then the pandemic hit, and suddenly, parents found themselves navigating remote learning, whether they were ready or not. Some mistakenly referred to themselves as homeschoolers, although there are similarities between homeschooling and remote learning.
Criticism of homeschooling has faded. In fact, those who once labeled it as “weird” are now praising homeschooling families. How do we manage to do it so effectively?
Being “stuck at home” while dealing with tech issues, staying organized, and juggling multiple children’s schedules is exhausting. The pandemic has illuminated flaws and gaps in the education system, which is not a reflection on individual teachers. Parents are becoming more aware of these discrepancies as they take charge of their children’s education.
Homeschooling has evolved from being seen as a choice for free-spirited parents who distrust the system to a collective educational journey that many have been thrust into unexpectedly. It can be easier than remote learning, as homeschoolers aren’t bound by another system or teacher’s plans. We can tailor our approach to what suits us best. In remote learning, both the teacher and the parent are involved, which complicates the process.
Just as public and private school teachers deserve immense recognition for their dedication during this unprecedented time, those homeschooling parents who have been navigating this path for years should be acknowledged for their hard work and creativity. They are not the introverted stereotypes often portrayed; they are diverse, resourceful, and committed.
Parents engaging in remote learning are getting a glimpse into the homeschool experience, which is no small feat. I’m currently managing the education of one child at home, another who is learning remotely, and two in-person learners. This experience has deepened my appreciation for the various adults working tirelessly to ensure children keep learning during the ongoing pandemic.
There is no single “right” way to educate a child. Every situation varies, and children’s needs differ. We are all striving to do our best, and thankfully, we are entering a period where homeschooling parents are finally being recognized for who they truly are, rather than the stereotypes that have long been attached to them.
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