School at home has been full of surprises. We are beginning a new semester and I’ve been reflecting on just how different the reality is compared to what my expectations were. Today and tomorrow, I’ll be sharing the top 10 things that have me shaking my head in disbelief.
Even if you don’t homeschool, maybe you’ll find some of your own ideas challenged just for fun.
1. I’m not as smart as I thought.
I assumed English was my strong point, but a couple days into a grammar book taught me otherwise. I know where the comma goes, but how do I explain why? More importantly, why did I never learn this? And history? Another favorite in school, but all facts have somehow disappeared. Where did they go? And why? So many questions.
Thankfully, I also found out that….
2. I can still learn.
My perspective on understanding seventh grade math is so different from when I was actually in seventh grade. Instead of shutting the book and, like, totally dreaming about boys, I’ve discovered that if I just apply myself, I can get it eventually. Huh. Guess my teachers were right about something after all.
3. I haven’t wanted to quit.
Now, I love seminars, conventions, articles, and anything else that is meant to inspire homeschoolers. I did begin to notice, though, that they all assure you you’ll want to quit almost daily.
I understand they do this so you don’t feel guilty when you have visions of kicking your kids out the front door to wait for a school bus that may or may not be coming. So far, though, I haven’t yet seriously considered quitting. Now I can hear all you veterans chuckling….just wait, she’ll see.
4. I’m not bored
Sure, this sounds awful, but I imagined the day-to-day routine would become quite dreary. Stuck in the house all day, every day, doing the same thing over and over. I was a little worried that I would go insane.
However, not only does my day fly by; no day is ever just like the one before it. Learning is exciting and brings new challenges and sweet moments with my girls. Guess what? They’re not bored either. Wow! Homeschool is actually fun!
5. The Homeschool community is friendly and accepting.
I’m not sure what I was expecting except that I’ve experienced plenty of grown-up mean girls in my time. I was pleasantly surprised to find that homeschool parents don’t judge me for having my kids in school up to now. In fact lots of them are in the same situation. And although there’s lots of talk about what program or approach you’re using, it’s friendly, not critical.
The parents we’ve met are excited about homeschool, even the ones that have been doing it for fifteen-plus years. They’re eager to help newbies out in any way, but still assume you’re the best teacher for your kids. Astonishing!
Tomorrow, I’ll post the next five surprising things on my list.
The IE Mommy - Christine says
Glad to read that everything is working out beyond your expectations!
Mamala says
This is a good intro for a ‘Homeschooling is Way-Cool” booklet.
You can come up with a better title, I am sure. Nevertheless–I meant what I said–even I, yer old, trooly sophisticated ma, hadn’t a clue when I envisualized your path on all things HS. I knew that you were the grandest teacher that I’d ever met (and there have been hundreds) (no foolin’), but I had no idea of the depth of details involved in just one day. I guess I thought it would be a bit of, “Read the book and answer the questions,” inbetween trips to the market, and during commercials. Not that you have ever exhibited that kind of mentality . . .but I have.
You are the bestest mommy in the world and I am oh-so-proud to have you as my daughter, not to mention so relieved to have YOU as the teacher of our granddaughters.
XXOO
Nancy says
You are one of the best teachers and mothers I know.
Keep up the good work. I don’t think you will ever get ‘bored!
Let me know if you ever want a visiting “paper arts” class.
Angela Mills says
Thanks, Mom and Nancy!!
I really appreciate your lovely words 🙂
Yes, I would love a paper arts class, especially if I get to learn, too!