I Can’t Homeschool: My Kids Are Too Big

Homeschooling can seem like a daunting journey, especially for those who are new to the concept. We are unsure of where to start, overwhelmed by the notion of taking on our children’s education, and feel as if we are not enough. May we offer encouragement for families unsure of the adventure called homeschooling.

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Whenever I have the blessing of counseling new homeschooling families, I encourage them to start home education at the earliest opportunity. The transition to viewing home as a learning environment is more smoothly made, and often parents are less overwhelmed by the amount, and level, of work expected of their students.

Does this mean homeschooling junior or senior high kids is out of the question? Absolutely not! It’s never too late to start homeschooling.

Understandably there are a few concerns parents might have when pulling their children from their existing schools and bringing them home. But if the Lord is leading our family to homeschool, we need to step forward in faith, knowing He will see us through.

My Child Has Concerns About Being Homeschooled

I wish I could say all children respond to homeschooling with open enthusiasm. Unfortunately not all children jump for joy at the prospect of mom and dad also being teacher.

Pray for your child, asking the Lord to soften their heart and open their mind.  Pray with your child, asking the Lord to give you both wisdom and patience. Encourage open discussions about their concerns, answering any questions the might have, and working through any difficulties.

My Child Has A Lot of Friends

One of the biggest concerns some have with removing children from their current learning environment is social interaction. The multitude of friends already gained might be lost, and your child might begin to feel distanced.

Friends, true friends, will not be daunted by the fact that your child is no longer attending the same school. Make a point of encouraging your child to set up social visits, keeping in contact via phone and email. Consider making new friends by getting involved in a local homeschooling group.

How Do I Teach Advanced Classes?

Once a child begins junior and senior high classes, parents start worrying about advanced placement courses and classes which might be out of their league. The thought of teaching calculus causes anxiety attacks.

Instead of fretting over how to teach subjects which you might have struggled with, or never took, during your own learning experience, consider the following learning opportunities:

• Hire a Tutor
• Online Courses
• DVD Courses
• Taking Courses Through a Local College
• Educational Co-Op Classes with a Local PSP

What About College?

Despite popular belief, homeschooled children have no issue getting into college. In fact, most colleges seek homeschooled students out.

If you’re needing more information about how to help your child make the most of their high school years, which courses they need to get into college, and which college might be the best fit, I would suggest starting your search by reading The High School Handbook. You’ll find everything you need to get the ball rolling.

Starting your homeschool journey in higher grades can be a bit intimidating. But, with a lot of prayer, a few helps, and some encouragement, it can be done. Remember, if God called you to this, He will be faithful to see you through. Let worry take a backseat, and enjoy the adventure called homeschooling!

“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”
Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Time To Chime In: Is there a high school course which has you worried?

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