Kristy Cammell Sometimes I wonder if I picked the right name for this.
(For Homeschool Haven, that is.)
Because here’s the thing: I’m a mother first, and a homeschooler second.
And there are TWO things that have always bothered me about the “school” versus “homeschool” debate. (Friend, I’d be honoured if you would bear with me here, because you just might be surprised by where I take this.)
FIRSTLY,
that you’re expected to pick a “side” that will then be reflected in your educational choices. (Which comes with the underlying assumption that an appreciation of both cannot co-exist. But I digress!)
AND SECONDLY,
that each “side” can be very quick to call out the worst in the other.
Let’s backpedal for a minute.
I’m a second generation homeschooler
AND I’m a trained teacher.
In other words, I wear both hats.
And here’s the thing (yup, again).
I feel very strongly that it’s not fair to point the finger at a collective whole – even if you’ve had a bad experience.
I believe it’s possible to honour that experience AND make the best choice for your family, without making sweeping judgments.
Not just possible, but important.
Let’s talk school
School itself is a method of teaching larger groups of children at a given time. It impacts our thinking as homeschoolers, because let’s face it: most of us grew up attending school. And it impacts the way in which teachers are able to implement their own teaching philosophies. Because there are certain things that need to be a certain way when you’re managing groups of students, and that’s just the way it is.
In a school context, the idea of education – and learning – has grown and developed vastly over the years. The traditional model that most of us grew up with has shifted. My observation has been that educators today lean toward functioning models that echo a lot of the great things that homeschooling has to offer, adjusted for a classroom setting. Teachers do their best to determine the methods that will most suit their students, and this can change from class to class and school to school, from year to year.
I am in awe of the hard work that teachers are doing, day in and day out, to support the students in their care. Especially when some days I find it challenging enough with only three at home! A classroom setting may not work for every child, but for some it is exactly what they need.
A child’s education is about all of life, and will always extend far past the boundaries of school. A parent is still their child’s first teacher. And yet school can also be a valuable part of their education as a whole. If you’re on the fence between school and homeschool, you’re not alone! Consider booking a coaching session with me to help you and your family as you weigh up all the pros and cons of what’s best for you, in the season you’re in.
Let’s talk homeschooling
I won’t go as fully into homeschooling here, because you can find plenty of articles throughout my website. There are many different ways to approach home education. No two family’s homeschool journey – or methods – will be the same. The ratios are smaller, the ages and stages are more spread, and because of this the challenges are different.
In homeschooling, the weight of a child’s learning lies entirely on their parent or caregiver’s shoulders. Regardless of their approach, there is an expectation that they will ensure a thorough education for the children in their care. They may choose to outsource some things, connect with other homeschoolers, attend activities or remain mostly home-based: the choice is theirs. For some, this is incredibly freeing. For others, this is overwhelming!
Homeschoolers are juggling many things at a given time, and homeschool burnout can be a valid concern. Looking after you in the mix is incredibly important. Homeschooling can be amazing for some families and kids, and not so great for others. As much as I am an advocate for how wonderful homeschooling can be, I’m also the first to say that it’s not a method that will work for everyone.
If you’re homeschooling and are struggling for any reason, I’d be happy to chat. Whether it’s to help you navigate the challenges you’re facing, to be a listening ear, or to help you weigh up the pros and cons of considering school… I’d love to help you and your family. Find out more about my coaching options in my “Services” section up in the menu, or click here.
Let’s talk both
Whether you choose school, or homeschool or a mixture of both, you are ultimately making a choice that is determined by what you believe is best for your family.
For this reason, I choose not to make blanket statements about the suitability of school or homeschool to families. I think it can actually be harmful in some cases. I’ve seen it happen, unfortunately.
That said – as with any decision, there’s definitely a place for inviting and facilitating honest and open discussions about the pros and cons, as they apply to each family. Stepping into either option with eyes wide open is essential, to ensure that parents are equipped for supporting their children and looking after themselves.
Regardless of your personal position, I encourage you to allow room to offer your trust in parents that they are choosing the best for their kids, even if it looks different to your choice. Just like any other aspect of parenting. (Remember the “breast” vs “bottle” debate?) We’re here to support one another and keep the conversation lines open, without polarising those who hold a different opinion.
Let’s remember this
The experience, heart and passion that so many teachers have for what they do, is a gift.
The experience, heart and passion that so many homeschoolers have for what they do, is a gift.
The bottom line is, we ALL have the ultimate goal of doing the best we can, for the kids in our care.
There are things that homeschooling offers, that school doesn’t – and never will.
And there are things that school offers that homeschooling can’t – and never will.
So you see, school isn’t the “lesser” choice.
Or the “better” choice.
It’s simply a different one.
Same goes for homeschooling.
It’s not the “better” choice.
Or the “lesser” choice.
It’s simply a different one.
Both will suit different families and different kids at different times.
I’ve seen each work for some, and not for others. Even in the same family.
I’ve seen each work for different seasons and different reasons.
And that’s okay.
Let’s be a bridge, together
Let’s all remember that, as we talk about education with our kids and amongst ourselves.
Let’s not polarise each other. Including families whose children span both routes.
Let’s unite in seeking the best for our families and cheering on those around us who are doing the same, whatever their educational choices happen to look like.
Let’s end the “school” vs “homeschool” debate and be a bridge, together.
I could say so much more, but that’s enough words for today. If you got this far, thanks for staying with me!
I’d appreciate you passing this on to others in your world who will value the reminder.
And after all that… I’m keeping the name!
So friend, let’s be a bridge between the two, together.
Would you do me a favour? Let me know if this resonates and let’s keep this conversation going.
Stay awesome!
Kristy x
