Home Schooling

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Home Schooling – Is It Cost Effective?

Published May 16, 2011 | By Laura Vryhof

Parents choose to home school their children for many reasons, one of them is the cost difference. But is the difference really all that significant? Home schooling is not always more cost effective than traditional school and often times can be much higher. Many modern programs are expensive making this a tough decision for parents. Because the modern programs are competitive with those offered in regular schools, the cost is often similar.

One of the first necessary purchases is a home computer and high speed internet service. Next, depending on the program you have chosen, you will need to purchase materials such as textbooks. The older your child gets, the higher the costs become for more advanced materials. Occasionally, a tutor may be needed for subjects that the parents are not equipped to handle. These additional expenses can add up.

Is there a way to minimise the costs? Yes, if you have several kids who are being home schooled, the materials may be reused and that saves a lot of money in the long run. Otherwise, there are forums where parents sell off used materials that they no longer need.

Besides the obvious costs, there are other things to consider when making the decision to home school. In this day and age, many parents both work in order to cover living expenses. Parents who have children in home schooling programs need to make sure at least one parent is at home to supervise the kids. Most of the time this means one parent must give up their job or at least work alternative hours. This presents an advantage in that someone is there to teach the kids but also a disadvantage in terms of the weekly paycheck.

There are ways to cut down on expenses, such as using the public library, community sponsered events and classes and cultural events in your area. Some parents even barter their expertise. For example, one parent teaches art classes to the neighbor’s children and another teaches history.

Even though the costs are considerable in home schooling, most parents who choose the option know that the advantages make the decision worthwhile. Home schooling represents a mutually enriching activity for both parents and children. As parents, you are able to control the material your children are exposed to and present it at a speed your children can handle. Children have the freedom to learn at their own pace in a comfortable environment while still getting a good education as long as the parent is committed.

Some parents worry about socialization skills being lost when they choose to home school but most times, extracurricular activities at local schools are open to them. Home schooling is done through an association with local schools in most cases so there are advantages to be had.

There is a lot of information to be found about home schooling on the internet. You will find many forums where you can talk to other parents to decide if home schooling is right for your family. It is a good idea to be aware of all the options before making this difficult choice.

Written by Laura Vryhof