Apples to Apples

Since I've joined the blogging world, I guess it fits for me to start a blog with, "I am so sorry for falling behind on my entries.".  Then, I think I'm supposed to give a really grand reason for why I've been such a slacker.  Well, guess what?  I DO have a really grand reason!  I have been crazy busy having fun with friends!  Thank you for not letting me "mother alone".  Spending time with other moms is so refreshing and rewarding!

So...........HERE WE GO!  Let's blog it up.

I have to be totally honest with y'all.  I grew up with a twisted view on homeschooling.  When we lived in the south, it was NEVER something I would have considered to be an option for my family.  I would say this is a pretty good portrayal of my past opinions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RU2jdDGStsg
I'm happy to report that my opinion has changed.  I attribute a few things to my 'transformation'.  It was in part due to my observations.  I've noticed that homeschool families seem to be very connected.  The kids are not socially awkward.  In fact, their social skills are quite impressive, and they present themselves extremely well.  Acquiring the facts and being open-minded have also helped.  This is where our "Apples to Apples" panel came in handy.    

In case you missed it, I'll explain.  Two meetings ago at MOPS, we had a day set aside to focus on school.  We brought in a panel of school professionals and experienced parents from each method of schooling.  One was one of the founders for Cedarbrook Acadamy (which walks alongside parents that choose to homeschool) and the Administrator.  We had a parent that chose homeschooling for her 5 children and one that currently has her 4 in public school  We also had a representative from a private christian school that works on the administrative side.  It was such a blessing that they were able to give up their time and share their experiences and knowledge with us!

They each admitted that there are pros and cons to each.  I love spending time with my kids.  So, the idea of them going off to school for 40 hours a week is a sad thought.  They grow up so fast!  Homeschooling and christian schooling give you the opportunity to fill your child's mind and soul with Godly experiences, while public schooling opens up a whole new sinful world for them to see and experience.  (One day, your child could be peering out the pack window waving his middle finger to passersby because he saw that it got a strange reaction when his classmate did it at school!  ha) Raising your kids to be the light in a dark, sinful world can be scary, but it's exciting at the same time.  Public school can be just the place for our children to show God's love to people that won't see it at home.  Another great point made was that you can and should reevaluate your child's needs annually.  If you feel they would strive better in a different setting, you can change your schooling strategy.

These examples just scratch the surface on their thoughts and advice.  I walked away feeling so enlightened.  The overall consensus from the panel was that each family and each child is different.  When considering your child's schooling, decide what best fits their needs at that time, and trust your motherly instincts.  (The one man in the room liked our MOMSENSE term!)