Not too long ago, I was a homeschooler. I know all about homeschool co-ops, dual enrollment, and “independent work.” But I have no idea what public school is like. I’ve never heard the bell ring that alerts students to change classes, been inside a school locker room, had an AP class, or been to a pep rally. (What even are those?)
Since coming to college, I’ve become acquainted with eating in the cafeteria, having six different teachers each semester, and taking very stressful tests called “finals.” But I realize that the non-homeschool world can feel very different than the homeschool world. I wanted to share the three main fears of homeschoolers in this post so that we can recognize—and own up to—our “homeschool-ness,” so here they are:
Fear #1: People will think that I lack social skills.
Okay, to be honest, some of us do lack social skills. But we all do sometimes, regardless of where we attend(ed) school. Why do we place so much emphasis on what other people think?
As long as we’re trying to be godly individuals, it doesn’t matter if we know too much about Lord of the Rings or if we can’t name every trendy pop singer or if we go to mystical places called “co-ops”. After all, there wouldn’t be any diversity if every single person went to one type of school.
Fear #2: I actually do lack social skills.
As I said, some of us are lacking in the social skills department. We don’t always know what information to share, when to share it, or how to share it. We may not say exactly the right thing in every situation.
Honestly, most of us can’t hide our “homeschool-ness.” But that’s okay! It’s part of who we are. Plus, it helps other homeschoolers relate to us and adds diversity to the lives of students who attend(ed) public schools or private schools.
Fear #3: I won’t be prepared for the “real” world.
Trust me, being unprepared for the “real” world can be a beautiful thing. You’ll probably be faced with worldly influences at some point in life, but being sheltered from our evil culture isn’t a bad thing.
You’ll adjust to the non-homeschool world if and when you need to. For now, just be thankful for the opportunity to be homeschooled.
Closing Thoughts
Homeschooling is a good fit for some and a bad fit for others. I think that homeschooling was the best choice for me, and I’m thankful for the years of teaching that my parents gave me at home.
I’m certainly not hating on any of my readers who attend(ed) public schools or private schools. If you did, you’re still an amazing human. Regardless of if you’re homeschooled, attend private school, or attend public school, diligence is essential.
The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich. (Proverbs 13:4 NKJV)
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