The early years were a breeze and the elementary schools had AMAZING programs. Going into public middle school, we were met with only one program: Special Education. Although I respect all disabilities, this is a program where special needs children, of all levels, are put into one class together. He absolutely needs extra help in the classroom, but he was becoming increasingly anxious and bothered by some of his classmates’ screaming. My son is also very social. He sees that purchasing his locker was a waste. (I did it anyway. I want him to feel as included as possible.) He doesn’t get to use it. He notices how his teachers and coaches don’t make him change clothing for P.E., and how he doesn’t go to cool elective classes. My son goes from a classroom full of that, to his friends in the hallway, on the bus, and in the neighborhood, and it confuses him. THIS is why I took a leap of faith and decided to start home schooling my son.
Why I Don’t Regret a Thing!
Admittedly, I love not being stressed out by continuous phone calls from the school, but there are so many benefits to homeschooling my son, versus limiting him. His meltdowns and moments of hyperactivity stem from not having enough stimulation. His teachers have said what I’ve been thinking. My son is not challenged enough. He is entirely too smart for his classes, yet not equipped for the larger, and much busier, classes. I gathered a short list of reasons why homeschooling has become the best option for both me and my son.
First and Foremost, How We Structure Things
Our method is rather simple. While my son is registered as a home-schooled child, he still does a virtual flex program, which keeps track of credits and transfers them to his local high school, come time for graduation. (We are not there yet. He is in the 6th grade.) This program is part of our state’s free virtual schooling program.
The flex program is exactly as the name states. We choose his classes, and structure his day according to OUR NEEDS. Some days, he might start with math class, while others, we may even start with P.E. Most days, we start around the same time as public school. Since we school at our own leisure, we may also opt to travel and explore, for hands on science and physical education. I’ll elaborate further in the “Shake things Up” section.
A Better Environment for Sensory Needs
We may be at home, but during school hours, this is an institution. We just run a cozier version of the real deal, with a lenient (but still proper) dress code. Unlike the special education program, he gets to “move around” for each class. I have designed education stations! Each subject is in a different area, with an environment catered to each subject. There is less noise and distraction around him, allowing for better concentration. He never has to ask to relieve his bladder and may choose to go to the bathroom as he needs. Another benefit is knowing that my son’s hydration needs are being met, as he will be able to grab a drink whenever he needs to. Having access to these essential needs, without needing permission, allows for less anxiety, less irritation, less tension and more productivity.
Equal Treatment Opportunity
Going into middle school, my son was looking forward to having a locker and exploring elective classes, only to find out that there aren’t elective classes for the special education program. He also doesn’t get the opportunity to use his locker, that we paid for, nor the receive opportunity to change in the locker room for P.E. He doesn’t say it verbatim, but I know it disappoints and discourages him. At home, while we don’t have lockers and a dressing room, we do have all the electives his precious heart could desire! Currently, we are doing Home Economics: Cooking and Physical Education. Next up will be Home Economics: Gardening, plus Physical Education.
Shake Things Up
With home schooling, there is no set curriculum. However, you still have to be within a certain standard. For us, this is rather simple, because he still completes virtual classes on a system that keeps records of everything. Instead of home evaluations, he also participates in state standardized testing, which counts as an annual evaluation.
Because we have more freedom with our schedule and curriculum, we get to take extra field trips and take his elective classes on the road. We go to the park and walk the trails, fish, row the canoe, go for a swim, visit a museum, and SO MUCH MORE! This is perfect for hands on science, geography, history, and different methods of providing physical education. This method of education gives the exact stimulation that he NEEDS to properly learn and retain. I keep a record of EACH AND EVERY outing that we do. I record where we go and why. Then, I state which subject the activity is most relevant to, and which key points were addressed and accounted for. I include everything from a written schedule to photos and assessments.
Simultaneously Helps Child AND Parent
Home schooling hasn’t only been a gift to my son, but also a huge gift to me! I am relearning so much, right alongside him. Not only that, but I am also more active, structured and organized. It feels amazing to always know that I am giving my son the best education he could possibly receive, as well as creating the best bond with him. As his teacher and advisor, I act as such. Although I am always his mom first, we take his education very seriously.
How this has helped me the most is in the fact that this situation and change of lifestyle has forced me to find substantial ways to earn a living from home and start several business ventures. Sure, my foot was through the door before I started, but this is what REALLY gave me the push that I needed. All I can say is, THIS IS POSSIBLE. Any mom who needs this to happen, can make this happen. REMEMBER, if you need a coach, I’m here and I’m cheap. (😅 Jokes, but also true😉)
Come see me at: Coaching Services
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