HomeWhat About Socialisation?
This is a question usually raised by new home-schoolers or home schooling critics. It is always one of the “big” questions.
Naturally, the development of friendships and the opportunity to play is always important for children, whether they are home-schooled or not. However, too much is often made of this issue, when, in reality, a play date every once in a while, coupled with the socialization opportunities provided by extra-mural and church activities is more than sufficient.
Independently conducted, scientifically valid research has once again proven beyond any doubt that home-schoolers are very well socialized. In fact, research indicates that they often significantly better socialized than their school-going peers. In addition research has demonstrated that home-schoolers are often substantially more mature, reaching the IML at a much younger age. They demonstrate a healthier sense of self-esteem and display strong leadership tendencies. The have been proven to be far less peer dependant and less subject to negative or destructive peer pressure.
Also, as school going children only socialize with their age-mates they become disinterested or unable to socialize with children younger or older than themselves. They show discomfort speaking to adults outside of their immediate family. However, home-schooled children have far greater opportunity to socialize with a broader spectrum of ages on a daily basis from tiny babies to grandparents and everything in-between, resulting in a greater ability and ease when a communicating with different age groups.
Interestingly, research also shows that after graduation almost 70% (almost three quarters) become community leaders and entrepreneurs, employing others and contributing positively to the economy of a country, as well as being strong men and women of God.
Finally, as a Christian family you are able to build unity, respect, love, deep understanding and closeness of the family unit. The family is increasingly coming under attack, but home-schooling is a wonderful God-given way of restoring strong family bonds! In the nurturing environment of your home, your children can develop poise, confidence, self esteem, and independent thinking, away from peer pressure to conform.
"Your excellent service ensures that we will remain customers and also recommend L2L to other home-schooling families. Thanks for the good work, may God bless you!"
Jaco
"We are getting along famously and are both learning loads!"
Julia (Gauteng)