As a new homeschool family, this seems to be the question most often asked of us. I"m sure you vetran homeschoolers have witty, wonderful responses but I haven't gotten there yet. I've tried to explain to people that ask us this, that our son is making more friends now that he is homeschooled than he ever did in public school.

In public school he wasn't allowed to go to the other kids houses. He wasn't allowed to hang out with them after school and on the weekends. Why? Because I didn't like the morals and values these kids had and I saw that rubbing off on our son as he desperatly tried to fit in. The language that poured out of these children's mouths was disgusting. This was a major factor in our decision to homeschool.

Since we pulled him out of public school and have become active in the homeschool community, he's soaring! It's so wonderful to see him with kids his age that show respect, have good morals and values and who's parents are a pleasure to be around! I don't for one second thing my son is un socialized. He's still active in church, he's active in the local baseball little league, he's active in the homeschool community. We have game days and park days, field trips, workshops, etc.. He's got friends calling him to chat about video games or the baseball games from the night before. He's got friends now that spend the night or invite him to spend the night and I don't have to fret that he's being exposed to things we don't approve of. It's wonderful seeing him have friends, good friends!

So how do you approach this question? He's more socially active now than he ever was in public school. He's not spending all his time trying to fit in. He can be himself and know he's accepted. Socialization isn't taught by a teacher. It's taught by the example set forth by the child's surroundings and parents. Yet when I explain this, I don't feel I'm getting this point across. I don't worry about this bothering him. He's happier than he has ever been. I feel it's more for my satisfaction that I can reassure the people in our lives that this is a wonderful opportunity that more families should embrace.

My question to you is..how do you answer those that seem to question you? Funny how no one questions your ability to teach your child and shape your child's education. They always feel being socially acceptable is more important. To me it's just wrong to feel that way.