Very interesting to hear from different perspectives.
We have been a homeschool family for 16 years. Our son was in public school for 5 years, so I know about sending a 5 yr. old away. Our 3 daughters, 19, 15, 12 have always been at home. I'm passionate about this topic, as I have loved being with my children-- what a privilege and
pleasure as well as sacrifice and responsibility.
Education and character will depend on parental influence whether public or home is chosen. Socially, homeschoolers have so many opportunities
but there are some things that children can be spared from at home.
If the parents are legalistic or socially challenged, the children will be
molded in that way whether h.s. or public educated. Character development should never take a back seat to education, for what is the value of a man that has degrees and intelligence but no moral character?
Problem we have found is that the majority of homeschoolers in our area
are quite religiously legalistic. This is a big turn off for my girls, especially as they age. This is not a homeschool problem, but a religious one.
Some of the benefits I have seen through our years: we had control over dating scene- no dating allowed and no temptaion or influence for
8 hrs a day-- we also did NOT go to organized church, where dating is
quite often encouraged or at least allowed. My girls have enjoyed their girlhood and developed healthy values and strengths.
The very young child was protected until they were strong and confident
enough to be on their own. The more adventurous child was protected from themselves! But most awesome thing is that my 3 girls are so close. I never allowed them to fight or be cruel to one another.
They aren't perfect, but even as teens, they are so much closer because of the large amount of time spent together. They all still giggle and talk
and even cuddle together at times.
Every day, I realize how I have failed them, but try to stay balanced and
know that God is soveriegn and where I have failed, He will use that
weakness to bring them to Himself. Had they been in public school, there would have been failures as well. One thing, they KNOW how important they are to their Dad and I, and they are quite secure in that
love........ so whatever your choice, live every day #1 to love God with
all your heart and #2 to love your family-- paying attention and nurturing
and protecting-- putting no hobbies, pleasures, self-interests above your
precious children or spouse. We are insufficient for the job of parenting
and NEED God every step of the way!
JJ