Post #12: Podcast

Post #11: Myth Number Four

Photo cred - Ally Holloway

Photo cred - Ally Holloway

  The fourth Myth about homeschoolers is that they are somehow 'deprived' of 'normal social experiences,' such as proms, graduation ceremonies, parties, competitions, and the like, that other 'normal' kids experience.  The truth is, I've experienced all of the above--except maybe parties (in the way that would be negative, that is), but how many parents really want their kids to experience that??--on several occasions.  I went to our substitute for prom (formal--and yes! Some people do go as couples believe it or not!) for four different years, and as you can see from the pictures, we look fairly 'normal'. (Sidenote: My dress was actually worn to a public high school senior prom)  At least I think so...  But I could be a little biased.  Even so, whether you agree or not, my point isn't that we are normal.  In fact, we aren't.  We are different and we're proud of it.  We aren't here to fit in, but we aren't being psychologically or socially deprived either.  It's true, in the past homeschooling did not provide as many opportunities as it does now, but those days are quickly falling behind us.  Why, even public schools are advertising their own at home curriculums!  It just goes to show that you cannot judge a book by its cover, and you cannot judge a person without knowing them yourself.

Photo Cred - Ally Holloway

Post #10: What I Don't Like About Homeschooling #2

  Ugh...here I am...behind again!  This is what I do NOT like about homeschooling.  Homeschooling can be hard.  Why?  Because it is so easy to slip and fall behind on work.  I mean, there technically are no deadlines (unless your mom sets them, like most do), and you usually do not have to go to class early in the morning.  This makes it easy to start out slow and not stay as focused and on task.  In essence, it is really a lot like college--you don't have a teacher constantly checking up on you for 7+ hours every day!  It is true, motivation is a problem with most people, regardless of what type of school they attend, but I think it is especially hard for homeschoolers.  At least, it was for me.  And trust me, this does not apply to everyone, because there are some super dedicated homeschoolers out there--I'm just not one of them...at least not to that extent.  That is why I think it is important for parents of smaller homeschoolers to help their kids form habits of finishing their work diligently.  Then, when they are older they have to learn for themselves how to set personal deadlines and self-motivate.  The fact that homeschoolers are forced to motivate themselves and ascribe their own intrinsic value to accomplishing tasks isn't really a bad thing, though.  I think that once this is conquered, it is extremely invaluable to the individual in the long run.  Since they have already learned how to operate without the constant supervision of a teacher, they are more prepared to work hard and be successful on their own in real life situations.  In this sense, I view it as a blessing in disguise.  But, remember, I claimed this applies to all you college students, too--it does!!  So just do it!  Grit your teeth and tackle that project you've been avoiding!  Set a time limit and find out how far you can push yourself!  You never now, you just might learn a few things in the process.

Post #9: Homeschool High-profile Profile

 Yes, the road stops here, this Monday.  One more game and the Mayhem and Madness of March will be over...until next year, of course.  It's been quite a crazy year in the bracket world, but the one constant has been the University of North Carolina.  The only one seed left standing, they are a favorite to win this year's title against the Wildcats of Villanova.  But what does this all have to do with homeshooling?  Well, on the surface, nothing.  But, if you watch the attached video, you'll notice that it's a video of one player, Justin Jackson, who had a phenomenal game against the University of Virginia.  What's so special about Justin Jackson??  Yep, you guessed it!  He was homeschooled!  So, in honor of their impending game, I am writing a short piece promoting him, his background, and his accomplishments.  Justin Jackson was a McDonald's All-American in 2014, won Co-MVP with Jahlil Okafor, and won the Jack Daly Sportsmanship award--and that is just a few of his pre-college accomplishments!  As a high schooler, he was a part of the Homeschool Christian Youth Association Warriors basketball team in Texas, and he had an outstanding career there. (For more info on Justin and reference to the information included in this blog = http://www.goheels.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209532765)  Many young athletes, especially in Texas, are choosing to homeschool for many reasons, but one of the reasons is that it provides more time to spend devoted to an individual's personal interests, such as Justin Jackson's interest in basketball.  Since he wasn't tied up in a classroom all day, he could learn at his own pace and spend all his extra time pursuing his dream--Division 1 basketball.  Another cool point, I think, is that Justin Jackson's team attends the National Homeschool Tournament in Springfield, Missouri, that my sisters and I have been privileged to be a part of (in fact, my two sisters went about a month ago and won the Division D championship! [http://nchclive.com/]).  It is a fabulous opportunity for homeschool athletes around the country, and I'm so excited for Justin Jackson as he competes in a National Championship!  Go Heels!

Post #8: Myth Number Three

  Homeschool Myth Number Three: Homeschoolers DO NOT know how to have fun.  Yeah, we may not "get out" as much as the average family because we do not head to a school building every morning (then again, you may be surprised at how much some of us do "get out", e.g. it is a rare day when my family is home all day long...), but that does not mean we have any trouble having fun or laughing.  In fact, my sisters, friends, and I make so many jokes about being homeschooled that we probably poke more fun at ourselves than anyone outside observing would!  Our favorite comedian, Tim Hawkins, is an absolute pro at what he does, and he is extremely hilarious!  You should definitely check out his website or YouTube channel--especially if you want to laugh so hard you cry!  Believe it or not, Tim Hawkins actually currently homeschools his four kids.  Due to this bit of trivia, he has several bits on homeschooling that are hilarious and has even written some parody songs on homeschooling that I have posted in this post.  He relates mostly to the segment of the population that holds more conservative viewpoints, but I believe that almost anyone can find his down-to-earth humor amusing.  Seriously, he is great, and he is really so good that I am privileged enough to be able to watch him tonight in concert in Raytown, Missouri!  Ah, I'm so excited!!  My family has been to one of his concerts before, and we were rolling nearly the entire time and raving for weeks afterward.  Anyway, please feel free to watch the attached videos on homeschooling--you won't regret it!!