Why We Chose Virtual Schooling Instead of Homeschooling This Year
- Chelsea Miles
- Aug 3, 2020
- 3 min read
When discussion about different options for this school year started we were on the fence as to what to do. As I really began thinking about it I realized our best options would be homeschooling or virtual schooling. My husband works during the day and I work in the evening so for us it wasn't a problem to have the kids home during the day plus that's what made me the most comfortable.
There is a big difference between these two options even though they both take place at home. As a former homeschool kid I have some insight into the world of homeschooling. My parents began homeschooling my sisters and I in 1996. My mom was our primary teacher who not only schooled us during the day but worked nights and sometimes weekends as a nurse. I honestly do not know how she did it. Homeschooling is a huge endeavor. It requires the parent wearing the hat of both the teacher and school administrators. There's researching curriculum, staying current with the state requirements, looking into groups or activities to keep your kids engaged with other children. The list goes on and on as a homeschool parent. Yes, this is totally doable but for me as I began looking into it I felt completely overwhelmed with all of the content.
When our school released their plan and I saw there was an all virtual option I was relieved. I had looked into K-12 but liked the idea of our girls still attending their school even if it was just virtually for the time being. I also like the idea I have a road map set by the teachers so all the pressure doesn't fall on me. I look at virtual schooling as an opportunity to dip my foot in the "homeschool pool" before I take the plunge to not only see if it's doable for me but our kids. I like the fact I'll have the freedom to really dive into things that they love learning about deeper, I can plan field trips or activities to bring their learning to life and our faith can be a part of their school day.
Once I had made the decision that virtual school was a great option I had to talk it over first with my husband then our daughters. My husband wasn't convinced as he's not completely sold on the idea of homeschooling mainly due to the socialization aspect. After listening to my view he agreed virtual schooling was a good option then it was time to bring the girls up to talk about it. Surprisingly they very quickly agreed that virtual schooling was a good option too. I must say I am a little stressed because I not only need to prepare for this school year a lot more but I also need to find other families to connect with who have kids our children's ages along with find some good options for extracurricular activities (silent scream).
Virtual schooling and homeschooling are different but so are people. What works for one will not work for another. Whether you send your kids to full time school, hybrid school, virtual school or homeschool this year it is important now more than ever to encourage each other. We're all trying to figure out life and parenting the best we can. I hope no matter what option you chose this year for schooling that you are taking it one stop at a time on the road of life!
Don't forget to follow our virtual schooling journey on social and see what's happening each week on our Youtube channel!
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