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When a parent opts to teach a child at home instead of enrolling the child in a public or private school, that is called "Homeschooling."

It is accepted that the First and Fourth Amendments of the Constitution of the United States of America guarantee parents the right to choose how their children are educated. A proper homeschool complies with state laws.

Home educators choose from a variety of curricula that can be found in homeschooling magazines, on homeschooling websites, and at book fairs. Education may come from books, educational video series, correspondence courses, or any combination of those, as well as hands-on experience from organized field trips. Education can even be geared toward a child's special interests. There is no "home work;" home work's primary goals are to provide proof to the teacher that a student is learning the subject, and to give the student practice. As a one-on-one tutor, the home educator is aware of the student's strengths and weaknesses, and uses class time to improve the weak spots.

Homeschoolers often form support groups that allow children to get together for field trips, special projects, study co-ops, and play time. Some support groups are large enough to sponsor yearbooks!

There is a misconception that children who are homeschooled are being kept out of society and are missing out on developing relationships with other children and adults. While a few home educators may choose to raise their children in that manner, the majority do not. Most homeschooling parents choose a variety of extracurricular activities for their children, such as art classes, sports, music, scouting, and church-related functions. Additionally, children accompany the home educator on daily or weekly errands and any community service activities. Finally, children develop friendships with their siblings as well as the children in their neighborhood! Homeschooling children who haven't experienced being grouped with same-age peers tend to get along well with all ages of children. 

Come back next month for more information on homeschooling!

Copyright 2002 by Brenda B. Covert