Decided to Homeschool DD(7) Today

[tinaluis]

Our oldest DD(7) has a chronic illness and regular school attendance has been very difficult lately. I did a lot of research on the internet, read about 10 books (with several more waiting on the bookshelf) on the subject and decided homeschooling would be the best thing for us. It wasn't really that tough of a decision since she was missing so much time from school anyway and has always been a very active learner at home. I figured this was the silver lining in our cloud which is her illness. What I wasn't prepared for was how emotional I would be when I met with her principal and teacher this morning. They are very supportive and basically said that we could count on them for whatever we needed, that we should still consider them our home school and they will continue to send newsletters, etc. I was a mess by the time I got back in the car with her bookbag and all of her books. In my heart I know this is the right thing to do (and just about our only option at this point) so why am I so emotional? Thanks for letting me vent.

 

[CEDmom]

You made the right decision. Your DD's health is more important than anything else. I can understand your being upset, it sounds like you have a wonderful school and it will be hard not being there. Perhaps your DD could still participate in some activities that wouldn't compromise her health. It would be nice for her to keep up friendships if possible.

 

[Pembo]

Does your school district provide home tutors???

We have a friend with a son that has a terminal illness. He missed many days from school. The school district provided a tutor that came to their house. She fought the district long and hard but her son won in the end. Every child is entitled to an education.

 

[Disneycrazymom]

Endings are hard, just let yourself feel whatever you feel right now. Maybe your emotions are as much about life not being what you thought it would or should be because of the illness as leaving school. Home schooling can be a wonderful experience! I hope that you and your DD will cherish this extra time together. It is a special blessing to be working together everyday. And remember no choice about school has to last a lifetime, you can go back to school when the time is right.

 

[peg2001]

This decision will be a blessing to you and your daughter. She sounds bright and eager to learn.

We started homeschooling our DD7 in November. Our life is so much less stressful and more at peace. Please feel free to PM me if you want to!

Peggy

 

[tinaluis]

Thank you all for your kind words. I really appreciate them.

 

[olena]

*HUGS* to you.... I think you'll do fine.

 

[rae519]

I homeschooled our oldest son from grade 9 -12 (after Kayla died); he did great on his SAT/ACT's and is graduating from college as a 3.8GPA this May. He has made us proud and we are very glad we made the decision to homeschool. (In public school, he was a "C" student.)
Now I am homeschooling our youngest (8) using the Seton Home School Program. I love doing it! He loves it! It's challenging for him, and easy for me to use. We go at "his speed" which is different for each subject and can have all the time we need to explore things as they come up or go over things that he needs more help in.

He is exceptionally well socialized and has quality time with peers. He is also taking piano and horseback riding for extra-curricular activities. He has interests that are far beyond what many 3rd graders are interested in and is able to discuss meteorology on a level that most adults can't! Again, it's the ability of the home educator to create the program and adapt it to their child.

We are the first and primary educators of our children - always remember that you know your child best and God has given you the ability to use that to teach him/her.

Best wishes!!

Rae

 

[MinnieYC]

Hugs to you, tinaluis. I'm sure everything will work out for the best, even if the road is hard sometimes.

Any child who is ill is entitled to homebound teaching from the public school systems, if that would be good for you. I've heard of great stories from some families, whether it was a temporary or long-term arrangement.

 

[momof2inPA]

When you start the homeschooling, it will be more difficult and time consuming than you expected, but do not be discouraged. After a few weeks, you will fall into a routine, and everything will get done in the day with time to spare. Our local Y offers classes for homeschooled children, if your daughter's health allows, you may want to look into this. The nice thing about homeschooling is you can proceed at your daughter's pace. If she does Math quickly, you can advance her while keeping reading and writing at a slower pace. The other nice thing is you can go to Disney in the off season when the crowds are low.

Best of luck.