Thursday, March 5, 2009

An Encouraging Word

So, since we started this homeschooling adventure...we have received a huge range of responses. We have support, we have understanding, we have encouragement, we have confusion, and we have criticism. No matter what each of you thinks, I want to thank you for at least being honest with me. And I want you to know that we are LOVING life right now.
1.I love my kids...and having them with me.
2.Our house is MUCH more relaxed than it was before.
3.The kids ARE learning...tons!
4.and they behave BETTER!!!
Anyway, I could go on and on about how right this decision was for our family. But the real reason I wanted to post tonight was to share something I read today. For those of you that are in this homeschooling boat with us, you will be uplifted. For those of you that are lifting us up in prayer and in support, you will be encouraged. And for those of you that are skeptical, I hope this will help you understand why we do what we do.

"We can sum up very quickly what people need to teach their own children. First of all, they have to like them, enjoy their company, their physical presence, their energy, foolishness, and passion. They have to enjoy all their questions, and enjoy equally trying to answer those questions. They love to think of their children as friends, indeed very close friends, have to feel happier when near and miss them when they are away. They have to trust them as people, respect their fragile dignity, treat them with courtesy, take them seriously. They have to feel in their own hearts some of their children's wonder, curiosity, and excitement about the world. And they have to have enough confidence in themselves, skepticism about experts, and willingness to be different from most people, to take on themselves the responsibility for their children's learning. But that is about all the parents need. Perhaps only a minority of parents has these qualities. Certainly some have more than others. Many will gain more as they know their children better; most of the people who have been teaching their children at home say that it has made them like them more, not less. In any case, these are not qualities that can be taught or learned in school, or measured with a test, or certified with a piece of paper."
-John Holt in Teach Your Own

2 comments:

.........Still ME! said...

I love you and think what you and Gary are doing of your family is great. You are a wonderful Mom, I have so much respect for you and your courage to do better for your family. Good luck with your new path, I know you and your family will benefit.

I think I told you, but my sister Annette has been home schooling for 5 years. If you ever need or want support or new ideas she could be a great resource for you. I love her bumper sticker she has had on her car for a couple of years it says, "Off the Conveyer Belt." :)

Nick Scott Family said...

I do not have any kids that are of school age yet but what a crazy world out there. I applaud you for home schooling and seriously think you are great. I think what I read is so true...there are only a handful of parents that have the patience, love and knowledge to be able to do that path ... good luck Les! You are a great mom :)