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Why Homeschooling Doesn't Need Big Brother

I recently read a newspaper article about how Oregon legislators are trying to do away with mandatory testing of homeschool students. Those in favor of the bill argue that homeschoolers have consistently tested above their public school counter parts for many years and have proven to be trustworthy custodians of their children's education. Reading this article reminded me of several incidences I've had with well meaning people who are skeptics of homeschooling and even more skeptical of a parent's ability and fortitude to do the job. These homeschool nay sayers, think that all children should be tested and even overseen by the public school system. When I am confronted with this issue I politely inform them that there is already a highly effective system in place which weeds out would be "slacker" parents so the government need not get involved. This subtle and effective "system" is right now working through the majority of homeschool parents, without them even being aware of it! You are probably wondering what this mysterious "system" is that I am referring to. Well, it is the "system of sacrifice". That's right, SACRIFICE and if homeschooling is part of your life, you most likely live it each and every day.

Having children at home brings many opportunities for family fellowship, love, joy and priceless memories; not to mention a superior education. However, home education also means that there will be more meals to make, more loads of laundry to process (due to lots of playing outdoors), more messes to clean, more wear and tear on the furniture, higher energy bills, curriculum to buy, fights between siblings to be diffused, less income and more noise! What it all sums up to is SACRIFICE, especially for the mother.

The average public school child spends over 1000 hours each school year away from the home. That is 1000 potential hours of "me time" that most homeschool moms will never see. Here in lies the secret to why the majority of homeschooling parents have successfuly proven to educate their children even without government watchdogs. It stands to reason that the families that are willing to take the road less traveled of homeschooling and make daily personal sacrifices for their children, are also equally dedicated to giving them a good and solid education.

How to Answer the "Homeschool Skeptics"!
by Jennie von Eggers

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