Feb. 5, 2008 - Entering new territory
We are beginning down a previously untravelled road, with a little trepidation--Public Opinion of Our Homeschooling. Asrat is getting more and more social, and answers questions from others unprompted and quite happily. Either school starts earlier this decade, or he looks like a first grader, because when we go out during the daytime, we are constantly asked "No school today, huh?". People are always asking Asrat about school, and his reply is always "Well, I'm homeschooled". He's happy about it and wants everybody to know it.
There is always a long, silent pause. Followed by, "Oh, how nice". Followed by sudden death of conversation.
I know some people simply avoid questions by not going out during the daytime, but with Josiah's schedule, that's not possible. Mornings are our best time for getting out and getting things done, and personally, I'm much more comfortable at the park if it's not teeming with bored teenagers after school.
It's going to be an interesting trip.
Comments
Feb. 5, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by dustinsdreamer
Nathaniel, my oldest who just turned four is big for his age and very verbal. People always think he's older as well. They assume he's in K. However, I've actually had people ask me, "oh, do you homeschool your boys?" When I say yes, sort of, since they are only 4 and 3, they look more shocked at their ages than the fact I haven't put them in a preschool.
If people who are close to me think it's odd that they aren't in a preschool yet, they haven't told me. I'm sure one day I'll have to deal with someone's negativity but it hasn't happened yet outside of my husband.
The best thing for homeschoolers to do is to get out and about during the day. The more the public is made aware of us the less it will seem odd...maybe. :)
You seem to be doing a fantastic job with your boys. I can't believe how big Biruk is getting!
Feb. 6, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Martha
I either ignore the looks or am blissfully unaware of them. The funny thing is my husband is a school bus driver and the first time I felt a little weird about saying I homeschooled was to other drivers. I did not feel bad anymore! The driver sitting next to me applauded me (in a manner of speaking) for going out of my way to homeschool. "The things I see on the bus, in even little kids....well." Let's just say the evening was not boring with the stories they have to tell and I realized that these people knew the parents children better than the parents did. From the smart aleck five year old to teenagers who threatened they would have the driver off in a week, I went away knowing it is tough, but i am doing what is best. She told me how the character of homeschooled students is what is the difference. I know people get a good education sometimes in PS, but character training? I am not sure it is the same as I want for my boys.
Anyhow, ignore those looks and hold up your head and go out in public during school hours. You do not have to say you are sorry for taking recess!
Feb. 6, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Titus2woman
HA! I think we can all relate to this~LOL! ~only it's not always funny~ Hey, I wanna know more about this picnic store, and I enjoyed looking up yurts! (sp?) (((((HUGS))))) sandi
Feb. 7, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by EstrellaEnchanted
I go out all the time during the day and I live in a small town. So most adults are surprised to see me out of school. most people dont think Im learning anything because they see me out in the supermarket, or at walmart or the park.
I agree with dustinsdreamer
The best thing for homeschoolers to do is to get out and about during the day. The more the public is made aware of us the less it will seem odd...maybe
TTYL :)
