If you are concerned about the education
your child is receiving at either a public or private school, you may
have considered the option of home schooling. There are many advantages
to home schooling that are easy to think of, but in making your
decision you must also consider the disadvantages. Yes, despite all the
bonuses you can think of in home schooling your child, there are many
disadvantages to the process.
Home schooling is a process that requires a massive amount of time
and dedication. If you want to home school your child you must be
present for a large part of the day. Kids are kids. Depending on how
motivated by academic success your child is, he or she may not require
constant supervision. However, in many studies, parental supervision is
the key behind the success of home schooling programs.
Parents must also possess instructional skills or access to someone
who can teach effectively. Simply putting your child in a room with
textbooks will most likely result in home schooling failure. In
addition, you will have to purchase materials that public and private
schools provide for students.
There is also the need to be able to serve as guidance counselor as
your child may require specialized instruction due to a learning
disability. Public and private schools usually provide these services
with qualified individuals.
One important benefit of an academic institution is the opportunity
for children to become properly socialized. Attending school with other
children from all walks of life leads to the development of social
skills. One of the disadvantages of home schooling is the relative
isolation children have from their peers.
Many parents find comfort in blaming the educational system for the
shortcomings in their child’s academic performance. If you choose to
home school you will be accepting full responsibility for the outcome
of your child’s education. This is more of a burden than it seems.
Studies have shown that many home schooling ventures fail due to the
fact that the home generally lacks qualified educators. Many parents
have gripes about teachers, but the fact is that they generally have to
teach large classes filled with children with diverse learning needs.
In addition, certified educators have taken teaching classes and have
passed state examinations to receive their teaching certificates.
When you approach the issue of home schooling you must examine both
sides. Sure, there are plenty of advantages, but if you forget to look
into the disadvantages, you may be setting yourself up for failure.
