My husband asked me a few days ago if a friend of mine ever talked homeschool with me. My friend’s family have been coming to church with our family now for a few months. I know she has homeschooled her children for many years and I think the only conversation I have had with her regarding homeschooling was something like I mentioned we are off for a while for summer and she said they school year around taking breaks at times. That’s it.
My husband thought that was a bit odd. I explained to him that we tend to be a prickly bunch sometimes when talking about curricula and homeschooling in general. As far as myself goes I get into a natural defensive mode at times when others bring it up. I guess I have an underlying fear that what I’m doing isn’t up to their standards and somehow me, my boys, and my homeschool style (or lack thereof) won’t measure up. Despite knowing this lady for several months now and talking to her not only at church but texting some through the week, I couldn’t tell you what her methodology, style, or curriculum is. I’m ok with that but I need to address that homeschooling elephant in the room someday. Like so many, I yearn for more homeschool fellowship. No matter how different our homeschools are I seek to accept others. I know of no one who does things exactly as I do and that’s ok! I would like to usher that elephant out of the room and just have the freedom to talk about what we do. I think it would be an encouragement for both of us.
As a related point, when people tell me that they are going to start homeschooling, I want to encourage and help but I know that what I suggest may or may not be what their family needs. I can tell that person what I do or offer a few suggestions but ultimately that mom will have to decide what would work best for her family. She knows her children, her routine, and so forth as only she can and can prayerfully consider what is best for her family. However, whatever choice that is made, I want to encourage in whichever way I can. Oftentimes though I’m so hesitant to be an encouragement to someone who, I’m sure, could use it. I should be bolder about this.
If you, like me, seek to feel more at ease when talking to other homeschoolers about their schooling, let me know. Why is this such a prickly subject with us homeschoolers? Am I alone in feeling like there is this elephant in the room with other homeschoolers?
This really resonates with me! I yearn for more connection with other homeschooling families.