TPJ 64: The Question You Should Be Asking Yourself About Homeschooling

Because sending kids to school is often the “default option”, I’m often asked “Why do you homeschool?” 

I think it’s time to start reversing that question and ask “why are you sending your kids to school?” When you really think about what your school provides (or doesn’t provide), homeschooling may begin to look much more appealing and not as out-of-reach as you once thought. 

Let’s discuss.

[05:19] Why do I homeschool? 

[08:00] Schools are a service, and we can decide if that service is right for us.

[08:50] Service 1: Babysitting

[09:29] Service 2: Education

[12:08] Service 3: Socialization & community

[14:11] With how much is at stake, the real question should be "why send your child to school?"

[16:06] You don't have to be a trained educator to homeschool.

[18:01] There are other options if babysitting is the main reason you send your kids to school.

[20:00] Many schools push rote memorization, which isn't effective.

[20:32] We can help our kids develop skills they might otherwise learn in school.

[21:01] There are ways to help homeschoolers make friends and build community with others.

[22:41] Schools often use extrinsic motivation, which isn't effective.

[23:44] They learn to compete instead of collaborate in schools.

[25:11] It may require certain sacrifices and lifestyle choices, but it's so worth it. 

[26:41] It may not be for everyone, but if you want to do it, you can!

If school really is the best option for you and your family, great! But I want you to at least work through these questions and justify why you’re sending them to school. Let’s do what’s best for our children and family, even if it means going against the default. 

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