I can’t count how many times I’ve been asked which preschool my child is enrolled in. When I share that I’m homeschooling my four-year-old, soon to be five, I often get some surprised looks. As a mother of four, I’ve navigated homeschooling for several years, and I’m used to the skepticism. The most common question I face is, “What about socialization?”
Each time I’ve decided to homeschool in the past, it was for different reasons. One child was pulled from public school after a lengthy struggle to address her learning disability, while another was kept at home to better fit our family’s schedule. This time around, my decision to homeschool is entirely my choice, and I’m excited about it.
With my youngest heading to kindergarten next fall, she will be one of the oldest in her class, having just missed the cutoff by a mere three weeks. I am genuinely pleased about this; my years of parenting have shown me that older children in a class tend to be more mature and prepared academically, emotionally, and socially.
The thought of sending her to preschool during a pandemic is alarming. I’ve seen how the current situation affects children—mask-wearing, social distancing, and frequent quarantines are not what I envision for her preschool experience. While I fully support COVID precautions, I believe my daughter deserves an enriching and enjoyable preschool year. At home, she can enjoy unstructured playtime, no masks, and a lower risk of exposure to the virus.
This past year has been particularly challenging for us. I faced my second battle with breast cancer, and my plans for quality time with my youngest were disrupted by treatment schedules and remote learning for my other children. What I want now is to focus on nurturing my youngest child. She has always shared her time with her older siblings, and I want to make this year special for just the two of us before she enters formal schooling.
From my experience teaching and homeschooling, I’ve learned that education occurs in various forms. Preschool is not solely about letters and numbers; it also encompasses physical development, mental health, and inspiring curiosity. I aim to provide my daughter with a well-rounded experience, which includes more than just academics.
As my youngest child, this is our final chance to bond in this way. If you think this decision is a bit self-serving, you’re partially right. I’m making this choice to strengthen my relationship with her, but I also feel equipped to guide her education. I have no doubts that she will thrive without conventional preschool.
Before long, she will be boarding a yellow school bus with a backpack that’s too big for her, off to kindergarten. I’ll be filled with a mix of pride and anxiety, just like any other parent. Until then, we’ll cherish our time together. Homeschooling allows us to learn at our own rhythm rather than adhering to a strict schedule.
Regarding concerns about socialization, let’s clarify what that really means. Socialization is about engaging with diverse individuals from different age groups and backgrounds. My child interacts with her three siblings daily, so I’m not worried about her social skills. School isn’t the only place where children learn to socialize.
I’ve gathered some preschool books and supplies, and I plan to read to her every day. We’ll take nature walks, and I’ll encourage her while she rides her bike or climbs trees. If that sounds unconventional, so be it. I’m determined to make her final preschool year one filled with joy and freedom—a time she will always remember.
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Here are some related searches you might find helpful:
- Benefits of homeschooling
- How to socialize homeschooled children
- Preparing for kindergarten
- Creative learning activities for preschoolers
- Parenting tips for young children
In summary, I’ve decided not to send my child to preschool this year for various reasons, including my desire for a more personalized learning experience and the current pandemic situation. I believe that homeschooling will provide her with the socialization and skills she needs, while also allowing us to bond in a meaningful way.
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