I've been thinking lately about "the only way" and how it raises a red flag for me. When attending workshops at homeschool conventions, anytime I feel that the message is steering towards "this is the only way," I naturally cringe and many times get up and leave.
Each family is unique, and each child in that family is unique. There is no one method or one way that will work for every family, or even for every child within the family. I believe that flexibility is the key. Be open to switch curriculum or methods even mid-year. If you find yourself needing a change in what you're doing or using, talk to your friends, borrow their curriculum to try for a few days, listen to their views, search the internet...then make your own choice.
The homeschooling world is constantly changing. As the "outsiders" figure us out, they want a piece of the action. We've become a highly sought after marketing field, universities are seeking us out, and businesses are offering services and classes for homeschoolers during the day at cheaper rates. It's a time when opportunities abound for homeschoolers. We have to pick and choose wisely. Just remember, what's offered as free, isn't always free.
There is no "one true way" to homeschool. Be wary of anyone that claims to have:
- The one method
- The one support group
- The one anything...
After all, this is the only way to approach this topic.
