Learning in the classroom vs. Learning at home

Look at education through the eyes of your child by exploring the differences between a traditional classroom experience and homeschool. What immediately comes to mind when you think of the two environments and their unique offerings?

Social Interaction

Outsiders tend to first question the social aspect of homeschool, so let's start there!

While there are many opportunities for students to interact and grow alongside individuals who differ from one another, the same opportunities present chances of students sharing poor habits and behaviors as well.

There are many activities and organizations available to support homeschooled children and parents, providing socialization and commonalities among families. Aside from these coordinated gatherings, as a parent teaching their child at home, various every day tasks provide teachable moments for our learners to improve their skills. By communicating and guiding our children, they are able to mirror interpersonal skills and will be successful in acting as they have been shown and expected to respond.

Student to Teacher Ratio

In five years of being in the classroom, the smallest class size I remember having was 22. Could you imagine giving your undivided attention and academic support to that many students? You're right. It is impossible, yet those unrealistic expectations are trusted in the public school system. As if all of those little angels will require absolutely no addition attention if it isn't their allotted sliver of the teacher's schedule, right?

We know that is a ridiculous assumption, yet most would rather take the chance than learn to effectively educate their children at home. Imagine the difference of working 1-on-1 for each topic, getting to tailor each lesson to your learner's needs and learning style. Incredible outcomes follow deep comprehension of new ideas, making homeschool a powerful teaching approach.

Flexible Scheduling

Not only does your child get to enjoy the freedom of having a less demanding schedule compared to the time constraints of traditional schooling, but the same pliable mindset can follow every aspect of homeschool. While it is important to have a routine when it comes time to begin instruction, that time can fluctuate as little or as much as necessary to fit your family's needs each day. Similarly, adjusting the information given or amount of time spent on a topic during a given lesson should directly reflect the needs of your learner. Having such adaptive options allows for a superior learning experience for your child, where their abilities and readiness set the pace.

Were those ideas familiar to your idea of how homeschool differs from the classroom?

It is important to consider what is truly benefiting your learner and their education. There have been many successful individuals who attended traditional schools within a system, and others who learned at home. Pick the option that will serve your child best.