It is difficult to pinpoint the exact number of children who are homeschooled, but the HSLDA estimates that number is between 1,700,000 and 2,000,000. Schooling children at home is becoming more popular now than ever. Many parents who homeschool their children are switching to the convenience of virtual academies. Here’s why:
1.Money Savings
Unless you homeschool your children, you have little idea of just how expensive it can be. Coming up with the proper curriculum and its materials can cost a fair amount of money. Public online schools are free, which means that the curriculum is free, too. Not only will you save money by enrolling your child in a virtual school, but you will also save time. It can take days to come up with curriculum that is suitable for your child, taking away any spare time that you thought you had.
2.You Aren’t a Teacher
You can read all of the materials and research papers that you like but, at the end of the day, you aren’t a teacher. There will come a time when your kids refuse to listen to you, dig their feet in the sand when it comes to completing assignments, and stop responding to your praise or criticism. Certified teachers are the people who instruct your child when you choose a virtual school. These teachers create their own lesson plans, teach, and grade assignments, taking the pressure off mom and dad.
3.Customized Learning Plans
Teachers went to college to learn how to teach; you did not. These professionals are able to tailor lesson plans that are specific to your child’s educational goals and needs. Your child’s online experience can be truly personalized. Many parents who try to homeschool their children find it difficult, and even intimidating, to come up with lesson plans that meet the educational needs of their children. It’s doubly difficult when the children have special needs. By using an online school, you can be sure that your child is getting the right education for his level of knowledge.
4.Structure and Flexibility
Some parents are worried that an online school will be more rigid than their children are used to. The fact is that most online schools are just as flexible as you are. Although the lessons and semesters are structured, your child can “attend” school at a time of day that is most convenient for you and the rest of the family. Many families find that a virtual school is just as schedule-friendly, if not more so, than homeschooling.
5.Cutting Edge Tools
Online schools have access to technology that you may not be able to get your hands on. Sure, you have an iPad, but is it enough? Teachers and directors of online schools stay abreast of the latest educational technology and implement it when possible. The only thing that you need to worry about staying updated on is your Wi-Fi connection. This can take pressure off you and the family, especially if you can’t afford the latest gadgets.
There’s nothing wrong with keeping your child home for school. Homeschooling is effective for many kids. If, though, you are looking for an alternative, don’t feel as though you have to send your child to a traditional school. Online public schools are free of charge and welcome new students.
About the author:
Brett Harris writes education articles about all types of learning opportunities. If teaching is a career you are interested in check out the Top 25 Smart Choice Schools for Online Early Childhood Education Degrees here http://www.superscholar.org/top-online-early-childhood-education-programs/.
