Here we present issues that we all face as parents...
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(In raising children guide) |
Do you send your children to public schools or private schools... or do you home school them? Some of you are fortunate to live in highly ranked school districts, while others consistently score below the national average. However, what does this mean? With the recent testing imposed on teachers and students, is it any wonder that motivations have changed? Are our children really learning if they are just coached in how to pass the standardized tests? Are the teachers truly qualified if their primary motivation is to score well on educator tests so they can keep their jobs? Do we have all the answers to these questions? No. But, it is something that you should consider as parents. We hope that you realize that educating your children should not be the sole responsibility of the education system, whether public or private - it is a responsibility that you ultimately own.
Some parents decide on home schooling. This is a truly noble endeavor. But, don't underestimate the difficulty of this task. You aren't just dealing with curriculum and discipline. You must also play the dual role of educator and loving parent - a monumental goal. And, do not forget that part of a child's education is socialization with their peers. Regardless of their intellectual level, they should still be capable of playing with children of their own age. Numerous respectable studies have indicated that if a child is not allowed to be themselves... and be their age, serious psychological problems may haunt them in later years.
Have you looked at the options available in your child's public school system? Typically, they aren't required to attend the school that is nearest to your home. You may apply for a secondary choice. You may think the teachers are better or like the smaller class size. Regardless of your reasons, it's likely that you can opt out of your standard school.
What about private schools? The Ethical Atheist considered many private schools. However, most private institutions are highly religious. While it is our ultimate goal to let our children choose their own religious beliefs, we cannot allow them to be brainwashed by theistic beliefs at such a young age.
You may wonder why we discuss are concerned about our children in public schools. Don't underestimate the pro-religious slant present in the public school system. Has your child come home and said that they are required to say the Pledge with "under God" in it every day. What is your answer to your child's question, "How would you say it without 'under God'"? You can easily tell your child not to say whatever parts they are uncomfortable with reciting. But, then she asks, "Why does our money say 'In God we trust''"? And then, "Should I believe in God if our money says 'In God we Trust'"? You never think about these questions until you're a parent. Then, they consume your daily thoughts.
If you are considering home schooling, here are some suggestions:
- Make it fun! If you want to turn your child off to learning, make it a formal, mandated experience;
- Play games as part of the learning experience. There are many card games and board games available that reinforce learning in math, pattern matching, language, history, etc. Do not underestimate the fact that your child's joy will likely come not just from learning, but from learning while doing something with their parents.
- Emphasize your child's creativity and praise them for it. You must force yourself to cease whatever your are doing to recognize your child's creative efforts. It could be something as simple as placing stickers in a pattern; or speaking some French words; or coloring a picture. You can rest-assured that if you do not recognize their efforts, they may feel unworthy of your praise. You can easily stifle your child's creativity without knowing it. If you assume that whatever you are doing is more important than praising your child, you have failed as a parent. Sorry - but it's true
