Why We Homeschool- Reason #2

I can sum up my next reason in one word- RELATIONSHIPS! I desire to have strong relationships with my children. I feel that I can do this easier by having them at home with me. When it came time to think about sending Isaac to school 7 years ago, I cringed. I couldn't do it. I didn't have peace of mind. I couldn't imagine sending him off to school for 6-7 hours, five days a week (**For those of you who chose this for your family, please don't be offended with this post. It is just what I feel God placed on my heart for my children. Every one must choose what is right for their own family. Homeschooling isn't for everyone. It is only one option of many.). I needed him nearer. I needed him home with me. This may sound a bit selfish, but I had other motives too.

It is my deepest desire to develop strong bonds with each of my children. I want them to know me and I want to know them. By homeschooling I think I have made this desire more tangible. We spend so much of our day together, that we have grown extremely close. The boys spend their days playing with each other and in the process form deep, meaningful friendships. Yes, my children are friends! That doesn't mean they don't bicker and fight, they do. But when I listen to them play what I hear is enjoyment. They enjoy one anothers company. Homeschooling encourages this. I am able to spend more time with each of my children since they are with me each day. I can talk with them, encourage them, laugh with them, teach them, play with them, and admonish them. Each moment together strengthens our relationships.