10 Answers for the Homeschooling Detractors

Has anyone questioned your sanity for deciding to homeschool? 

The questions you hear range from silly to insulting. Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny prepare you for those questions in a fun way.

Show Notes:

Don't be caught off guard. These replies, mostly tongue-in-cheek, provide responses to various things homeschool detractors might say to you. 

1. Homeschooling? Is that even legal?

The pandemic may have rendered this question moot, but I have received it nonetheless. The reply is that, yes, of course it is legal in all fifty states. Homeschooling, thanks to the efforts of some brave mothers and fathers, including Dr. Mary Kay Clark, is now legal and even commonplace in the United States.

2. Aren't you concerned that your children will have no friends? What about socialization?

That this question continues to be asked astonishes me. Study after study shows that homeschooled children do as well or better in social situations than children who attend brick-and-mortar schools.

3. You must be so patient.

I have a little secret to tell you. I lack patience. 

"I have more patience for my own children than I would have for thirty children in a classroom."

That usually stops the conversation.

4. Your children will know nothing of the world or of pop culture.

Your reply to this silly question can be, "Which R-rated movie would you suggest my ten-year-old see to bring him up to speed?"

5. How will you teach calculus?

When people ask what I am going to do about calculus, ancient Greek, or organic chemistry, I generally say, "Well, I thought I might ask you to tutor them. After all, you went to public school, so you must be qualified."

6. What about the prom? How can you deny your child a prom?

The fact is, many homeschool groups hold proms for their high school kids because if a homeschooled kid wants a prom, he/she will plan and execute one with a little guidance from an adult. Homeschooled kids are like that; they get stuff done.

7. I could never homeschool; I want my kids to have a life.

You want them to have a life, so you lock them in the same room every day with the same twenty-five people, listening to the same person day after day. In contrast, my children are out in the world, meeting people, taking classes, and having the freedom to try new things. Tell me again, who is lacking life experiences?

8. Why would you want your kids around all day? Don't they drive you crazy?

Here's the thing: I actually like my kids. I'm glad I have them. They are funny and smart, and their presence fills me with joy and gratitude.

That's not to say that they don't drive me crazy sometimes, but so do people who ask silly questions.

9. How will your children learn how to line up?

I'm not kidding. This is a genuine question that homeschool mothers often get asked. It stems from some post-cafeteria stress syndrome people have.

The response is to call your children to you and ask them to line up. It's easier for certain people to have a visual. Then laugh. Seriously, laugh your head off.

10. What is your child going to do for a high school diploma?

Well, if my kid graduates from Seton, they will receive an accredited diploma. 

Bottom Line: 

Don't let anyone question your motives or desire to homeschool your children, but rather, let them know that you are equal to the task and unwavering in your commitment. Homeschooling Resources

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services