Why Do Families Homeschool?

There are as many different reasons for homeschooling as there are homeschooling families. Some families are very intentional about their choice, while others consider themselves more of the “accidental” homeschool type. Some educate at home from preschool through high school graduation, while others choose to keep children at home on a more short-term basis.

Whatever the reasoning, homeschooling is rarely a spur-of-the-moment decision. Instead, it is an intentional choice made because the family believes that it is the best decision for the current situation.

While the specific details vary from situation to situation, most reasoning for homeschooling falls into one of these categories.

Many families homeschool based on religious convictions, including the freedom to teach all subjects from a faith-based perspective.  For Christian parents, for example, this provides the freedom to choose curricula that support their faith, teach creation science, explore history from a biblical timeline, choose reading materials that complement their worldview, and incorporate prayer into the school day. Other faiths find similar freedom.

Homeschooling is often an idea option for families dealing with circumstances such as medical issues, developmental delays, or other special needs. This option allows children to be provided with specialized education to meet their personal needs. It also provides an option for children who cannot leave the hospital or their homes due to medical issues, or for those who simply need a controlled environment. Many of these families enlist the aid of specialists who come to their homes to help with education and therapy.

Concerns over school violence, bullying, overcrowded classrooms, long school days, long commutes, teacher qualifications, and peer pressure lead some parents to educate their children at home. Others simply wish to tailor their child’s curriculum to meet specific learning styles, providing the most ideal learning environment possible. Either way, the priority is to create a safe and effective educational environment for their children.

Sometimes, home education is a short-term decision. In this case, parents decide to educate at home to smooth a transition, fill in gaps caused by a move to a new school, deal with a temporary health or family situation, or simply provide a temporary change.

Regardless of the reasons a families homeschool, the wealth of resources and support available to homeschooling families makes it easier than ever to provide a stellar education, customized for each child.