11 Perks of Homeschool from a Real Homeschool Mama

A while ago I posted 25 Truths from a Real Homeschool Mama and I promised that I would come back and talk about the Perks about Homeschool.

I am sure that not everyone will agree with these perks or ever call them perks at all, but then again, it all is in the eye of the beholder.

So without further ado, here is my list of Perks that only happen because we homeschool:

1.  Pajama Day. Granted most people are going to say that this is a sure sign of laziness, but it actually is not. When we do pajama day here at our house, it is a reflection of us trying to be a bit more relaxed. This happens most often in winter time when it seems silly to change out of those warm snuggly pajamas into cold clothes . . . yuck.

2. Reading All Day Long. Yes, we do have days where we read, all day. I read aloud or the kids read (or look at) books. It is sometimes a very much needed break from the heavy load that we carry. It is a refreshing break to just talk about the books we are all reading or to talk about the book I am reading out loud. Either way, we do have days that books take over, and that’s okay.

3. Baking Day. It happens occasionally. We bake all day. Homemade bread, cookies, muffins, pies. These are life skills and everyone participates. Yes, even the boys. Measuring, timing, preparation, clean up, and then enjoying the goodies created. A well rounded day of learning!

4. Errand Day. Admit is, you have to run to the store at least once a week. Usually an unplanned trip of course because yesterday you baked all day and now there isn’t any milk for cereal. But let’s make the most of it. When it is errand day, we do school (on the sly of course) – list making, budget following, cost comparison, math, fact checking brands, health class, and so much more!

5. Snuggles. Anytime you or the kids wish. I know that there are days when this alone helps me survive. I love the fact that during the day a random child (usually my youngest, lol) will come over and want a hug. A real hug. Or even some snuggle up on the couch with me for a few minutes. Just being. THIS is a wonderful perk!

6. Learning. Yep, I actually still enjoy learning! I love when the kids and I come upon a new idea, project, or lesson and even I get to learn something new. I have learned more schooling my kids at home then I ever did in actual school. Okay, maybe not, but this is a huge benefit for me though. I love learning and I love watching my children learn.

7. Flexible Schedule. If you don’t already know this, my husband travels a lot for his job. So having a flexible schedule is a HUGE perk for us. We can do errand day, or do shopping day, or do build a house day, when daddy is home. And I don’t have to worry about anyone saying anything. The way I prefer things.

8. One on One Teaching. This is by far the best thing I have found about homeschooling. That I am ablate take one on one time with each child as they are in need. Sometimes what works for one does not work with another. This can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be. This builds confidence and foster more love and understand for the individual childs’ needs and learning style.

9. Teaching Styles. This is so very important that you learn HOW your child learns. It took me years to learn that my daughter is an auditory learner. She needs to hear al instructions for it to computer in her brain. Math is so hard for her sometimes because just reading instructions doesn’t always cut it. I read aloud A LOT. But ifI had sent her off to PS, she might have been a failing student instead of the bright and creative child she is today.

10. Morals and Values. I’ll be honest. This is one of the main reasons that we homeschool. As a Christian I feel led to instill our beliefs, morals, and values in our children. Along with the love of Jesus and His gift of eternal life. No matter what the world says, these are such incredibly important parts are being a parent. And as a homeschool mama, I do not want any other idea being planted that are not Christ-like. Do I blow it somedays, absolutely, but the foundation is being laid that will be reflected for eternity in our children.

11. Game Day. This is always a favorite of our children. When school is not counted in there eyes, but this mama knows better. Board games are so important for many reasons; sportsmanlike attitudes, reasoning skills, money counting skills, land management, risk management, cause and effect, strategy, and just plain fun. We love these days, learning and school, total PERK!

This is just a small list as I am sure you can think of many, many more perks of homeschooling. Share with me in the comments, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

In His Grace,

Callie