Dear Mom, Thank you for writing your letter. Your concern is one that many moms, including myself, have at one time or another dealt with in regard to behavior changes and the question of returning a child to the public school system. Many times when our children misbehave or exhibit behaviors that are unpleasant we are sorrowed and confused. Of course as the 'mom' we are equally ready to blame ourselves or the situation of homeschooling for the behavior. While in some circumstances there may be evidence to support the belief that homeschooling is contributing to adverse behavior it is more likely that such behavior is merely a maturity discipline issue unrelated to homeschooling. Think for a moment about those cultures of yesteryear whereby homeschooling was not only the norm but the preferred method of teaching a child all that they needed to know in order to mature. Insulting behavior, rudeness or irritability would not have been tolerated because it was wrong. No one considered that the child was unhappy with the method of teaching. I will tell you from personal experience that all children must mature through the type of behavior that you describe. Children are adults in the making. They are not adults who have to be children. We must understand that teaching a child entails teaching a child through all phases of their life. How would you handle this behavior if one of her public school teachers called you in for a conference and shared that your daughter was a behavior challenge in the classroom. I am certain that you would explore methods of discipline etc. that would help your daughter mature through this phase in her life. Go forward into solutions. Make certain that the curriculum you are using allows for enough wiggle room to allow for freedom. CHC believes that homeschooling is a lifestyle and in that knowledge alone we must allow that the method of educating our children becomes indeed a lifestyle. It is very important that children have a healthy balance between structured academics and free inquisitive learning that grows their imagination.
Instead of driving to a public school why not explore the option of joining a homeschool co-op that meets one day a week. In this option your daughter will find friendships and you as well will find a support network that will mentor and uplift you in this journey. I admire your dedication. I sense that you are ready for some outside companionship from moms who share your journey. It is necessary that you address the issues that you may be facing with regard to the postpartum challenges. It may be necessary for you to speak with your health care provider. Many times young women suffer needlessly from hormone imbalance triggered by delivery. Sometimes there is a need to take thyroid medication. There are many reasons that a women can still be suffering with postpartum issues. If you are still feeling this way and your baby is 6 months old then it is time for you to speak with your doctor. True postpartum depression lasts only a short time. Relax with the challenges that you are facing. It is not necessary to worry needlessly about your daughter's education. I sense that she is bright but she may be experiencing pressures related to the experiences that she is sensing in your home at this time. Sometimes the challenges that we face seem too demanding because we demand too much of ourselves. Take things slowly and give over your days to tasks that make you happy and peaceful. Spend an entire day crafting with your young daughter. Bake cookies etc. The best activity that you can do for your child is reading to her. Turn off the TV. Nothing stimulates creativity like freedom. Sometimes children feel that they 'have to' watch television because it is on. Go forward. Jesus loves you and wants you to know that you are His dear one and He believes you to be worthy and capable of loving and caring for your children. I admire you and will be praying for your needs all day today. You are on my heart and I care about your journey. Rest in the embrace of the Lord and allow Him to comfort and heal all that is hurting. Let us offer up our challenges today for all those who are dealing with terrible sorrows that are overwhelming. Amen. Sending out a prayer, Rita Munn |
