Homeschooling isn't as mysterious as it appears to be. It has actually existed for many centuries, in a variety of forms. Throughout history Children have been taught skills and trades by older family members. Family history and heritage has also been handed down through generations of teachings. In this fashion, homeschooling can be traced back to Adam and Eve when they taught their children.

Why homeschool your child(ren) today? Why not send your child(ren) to school and let someone else do the teaching? Why be different? Simply put: Lessons are waiting to be learned in the life that surrounds us. So, instead of pushing students along at whatever rate is deemed appropriate for a large class homeschooling offers a more personal environment. Children aren't forced to learn at a rate that is too slow or too fast for them because more time can be spent with each child on an individual basis. This also means that learning hurdles can be overcome more easily.

Homeschooling also allows parents to teach their children valuable character traits. Instead of having children mimic pop culture, children learn to be an individual and not a "follower of the crowd." In such cases, courtesy and respect becomes commonplace. Modesty and self-control are developed. Children are more likely to impersonate their parents' sense of style, mannerism and attire than that which is found in pop culture. Parents are also able to control social gatherings so that their child(ren) don't make friends according to the outfits and jewelry that are worn. Instead, children are able to engage in meaningful conversation, thus making friends with other children who actually share their interests.

Another important part of homeschooling occurs when children learn that they are able to learn something from every part of life, not just within the confines of a classroom. Here are some examples...

Home Economics is not an elective, it is about learning life skills. In the kitchen children can learn about fractions and word problems. They can learn to cook a meal, sew something, or clean the house which not only provides a means of independence but also adds to their self-worth when they are satisfied by a job well done.

Science can be learned outside through gardening, nature walks, and star gazing. Autumn leaves can be collected and studied. Cocoons are closely watched for the first signs of life. Ice crystals and snowflakes are more than just play things.

Historical and cultural facts are uncovered after a visit with the grandparents or by leafing through old photos. An old cookbook reveals old family traditions and legacies. Stories told expose forgotten crafts and artistries.

Libraries turn into fountains of knowledge. Research takes on a whole new meaning.

There are more opportunities for field trips. Museums and concert halls become discovery palaces.

All of these things work together to turn learning into an exciting, fresh and new experience as schoolwork is no longer limited to a set schedule of events or a program to follow.

So... Why homeschool? Why be different? Because a world of knowledge lies in wait before us. The world around us becomes our schoolroom. Homeschooling goes beyond books, facts and figures and becomes more about life than anything else.