Once while reading a Christian
parenting book, I realized how many of my parenting decisions were
based on fear. It was kinda crazy to think about, but many choices
have been made because I didn't want a certain thing to happen!
I was afraid.
The
Bible has much to say about fear. One thing I've read said that the
Word addresses the issue of fear 365 times! A daily reminder from God
to not fear (by the
way, I've never counted references to fear in Scripture, so I don't know
for sure if that estimate is exact- does anybody want to confirm?)
When
we made the decision to homeschool, I'll admit, much of it was due to
fear. (Some fears can be healthy, though, so I'm not saying the
reasons aren't valid!) Fear about bullies or other negative social influences, fear about (for us) our
son getting a hold of some kind of problematic food (he is outgrowing
a few minor allergies), fears that his educational needs would not be
met and he would grow to dislike school. There are more, I'm sure, if
I really think about it.
"There is no fear in love; but
perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he
who fears has not been made perfect in love." 1 John 4:18
As
homeschooling moms, we need to look to love for our motivation in
everything! Here are some of my favorite love-inspired reasons to
homeschool. Some of them fun, some of them serious. What reasons can
you add to my list?
- I get to be with my babies all day!
- I get to learn alongside my children (yay, me!).
- My children have the opportunity to experience the real world as we move through our day together, rather than only interacting with their peers.
- No alarm clocks! (Unless we have some place we need to be).
- Our mornings are calm, and we all (usually) get as much sleep as we need.
- Education is tailored specifically to my child's needs.
- If they have mastered certain material, we get to move on- no waiting for others to catch up.
- If they need (or want) more time with certain concepts, we can "camp out" there for as long as we need (or want) to.
- My children eat home-cooked and lovingly prepared meals all day.
- We have a ton of freedom to explore our community resources (parks, museums, libraries, etc.) while they are not busy.
- I get to read (and re-read) lots of favorite books with my children!
- We can learn in our pajamas!
- Nobody has to raise their hand to use the restroom. :-)
- More time for (godly) character development!
- Time! Time to be together, time to develop our relationship, time to explore their interests and hobbies, time to be creative!
I'm
sure there are many more love-inspired reasons to homeschool! What
are your favorites? Share in a comment!
Linking up with these fine blogs:
