Dealing With Homeschool Skepticism
If you have been homeschooling for a while or if you have just decided to begin, skepticism is something you either have or will come across. Family members, community members, and friends will often question your decisions. There are many disbelievers out there. These people have fallen for the stereotypes that often come into existence where homeschooling is concerned. Other skeptics simply need to be enlightened, as they are just showing general interest or concern. But, regardless of the intention, how are you to deal with skepticism?
First, be true to your beliefs. You made the decision to homeschool for your own reasons. It doesn’t matter if your reason was spiritual. It doesn’t matter if you decided that you would be the best educator for your children due to overcrowding of schools or safety issues. Your reasons are valid, and you should not feel that you have to defend your decisions where your own children and their educations are concerned.
Second, hear others out. It does absolutely no good to come out swinging and on the defensive. It just makes you look bad. Stand your ground and state your reasons for coming to your decision. Don’t try to convert anyone to your way of thinking (everyone is entitled to his/her opinion), simply explain your thoughts and let them stand. Often those who are insecure about their own beliefs are the first to criticize other’s beliefs.
Third, be patient. Often people are questioning out of their own ignorance (this does not mean stupid) and out of genuine concern. Educate the skeptics. You did research before making this monumental decision. Share the research and articles that convinced you that this was the right answer for you and your family.
Fourth, take advantage of your support system. There are homeschool support groups out there, and those families are most likely facing the same skepticism that you are. Talk with those parents. Find out how they deal with the family/friend skeptics. They are your biggest fan club, so lean on them when you need to. Read more