Homeschooling has changed a lot over the years. From being seen as weird and illegal, it’s now seen as a good option for many families. This change is thanks to the hard work of advocates and the growing number of families choosing to homeschool. Let’s explore how homeschooling has changed and what the future may hold.
The Start of a Movement
In the early 1980s, homeschooling was not as common as it is today. In Washington state, it was even against the law unless you were a certified teacher. Mike Farris, a lawyer, started getting many requests for legal help from homeschooling families. He realized that families needed a way to work together to protect their right to homeschool.
Farris came up with the idea of the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). This would be like a union for homeschoolers. Families would pay a small fee each year. This money would help HSLDA fight legal battles for homeschooling freedom. Today, HSLDA is over 40 years old and has about 100,000 family members.
Changing Views on Homeschooling
The way people see homeschooling has changed a lot over time.
- Early Days: People often asked if homeschooling was even legal.
- Later On: People worried about how homeschooled kids would make friends.
- More Recently: People wondered why homeschoolers needed lawyers, showing it was viewed as more normal.
COVID-19 changed everything. Many families had to teach their kids at home. This made them see themselves as more involved in their kids’ education. They also saw that homeschoolers were doing well in school. This gave them confidence that homeschooling could work for their own children.
Socialization: Still a Question?
Even though homeschooling is more accepted, some people still worry about socialization. They wonder if homeschooled kids will have enough chances to make friends and learn social skills.
One expert said that socialization is really about teaching kids the rules of society. It’s about adults teaching kids how to act, not just kids learning from other kids. Homeschoolers can learn to get along with others in many ways. They can play sports, join clubs, go to church, and play with neighborhood kids. After school work is done, homeschoolers have time to do many activities just like every other kid.
Think about this: Are children best socialized by other children, or by the adults that they trust?
Faith and the Law
Faith has played a big role in the fight for homeschooling freedom. For some, their faith calls them to make sure that kids get a Christian education. They want to protect Christian values in education.
One story shows how faith and law can work together. Farris was helping a homeschooling family in Ohio. The local school leader had said no to their request to homeschool. Farris learned that the mom was not a believer. He shared his faith with her, and she became a Christian.
The next day in court, the judge said the family would lose. But, Farris asked the school leader if he had gotten legal advice. The school leader said he had talked to the judge before the case. This showed that the judge was not fair.
Advice for the Future
The fight for homeschooling freedom is not over. Some states are trying to make it harder to homeschool. It is important to stay watchful.
Here’s some advice for the next generation of homeschooling advocates:
- Don’t relax. The price of freedom is to always be ready to defend it.
- Support groups. Join and support state-level homeschooling groups.
- Support HSLDA. Be a part of the Home School Legal Defense Association.
- Depend on God. Remember that God has helped homeschoolers in the past.
By working together and staying strong in their faith, homeschoolers can protect their freedom for years to come.
Get Involved: Find your state’s homeschooling association and see how you can support educational freedom.
The Big Picture
Homeschooling is part of a bigger fight for parental rights. Some people want to take away parents’ rights to make decisions about their kids’ education and health. It is important for parents to stand up for their rights and make sure their kids get a good education. This includes teaching them about civics and the Constitution.
A Rewarding Choice
Homeschooling is a choice that many families will never regret. It can help kids grow closer to God, share their family’s values, and be friends with each other for life. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.
Conclusion
Homeschooling has come a long way. It’s now seen as a good choice for families who want to take charge of their kids’ education. By working together, staying strong in their faith, and standing up for their rights, homeschoolers can protect their freedom and give their kids a bright future. The journey is far from over. Let’s continue to support and encourage each other as we shape the future of homeschooling.