Is it Possible to Homeschool a Child While They Are Required to Attend School?

The answer is yes, and this flexibility can offer a unique educational experience for both the child and the parent. Many children engage in a variety of activities both at home and at school, which can include reading, discussing ideas, practicing music, doing art, and more. This blended approach allows parents to supplement their child's education in areas where they see the need, while still allowing the child to benefit from the structured learning environment provided by the school.

Flexibility in Homeschooling

For instance, a parent might choose to homeschool a particular subject, such as science or history, while leaving other subjects to the school. Alternatively, they can gather educational materials and make them available to the child, perhaps through field trips or online resources. Engaging in activities like dance lessons or tutoring is similar to homeschooling in that they involve active learning and structured practice. Field trips and reading books to children are also effective ways to introduce customized and engaging educational experiences.

Why Not Combine Both?

Despite the advantages, there's one crucial point to consider: a child generally has one primary educational path. They will either go to school (public, private, or online) or be homeschooled. Before I made the decision to homeschool my son, I had a misguided plan to supplement his schooling at home. Thankfully, I realized the importance of dedicated playtime, exploration, and spending time with peers, which school provides in abundance. A diverse and balanced lifestyle is important for a child's growth.

Beyond School: Personalized Learning

Instead of simply giving your child more school, it's better to support their interests and engage in activities together. Explore things that spark your child's interest and get to know them to better understand what they enjoy. Share your passions in ways that are enjoyable for your child. School is often a one-size-fits-all approach to education, designed to meet the minimum standards of learning. It often relies heavily on memorization, which isn't always the most effective method for individualized learning.

Embracing Guerrilla Learning

For parents looking to provide individualized education without homeschooling, Guerrilla Learning: How to Give Your Kids a Real Education With or Without School by Grace Llewellyn and Amy Silver offers valuable insights. This book emphasizes creating a home environment that fosters joy in learning and supports the child's innate abilities. Some key points from the book include:

Let your child read library books instead of finishing homework. Involve your child’s teachers in their interests, such as having their poetry teacher comment on a child's work. Encourage your child to pursue their interests and develop their strengths. Cultivate self-discipline and a deep love for learning. Empower your child with the joy of learning and prepare them for the world beyond school.

If you are concerned about your child's education or feel that they are not flourishing in school, this approach can be transformative. Guerrilla Learning provides fun and engaging exercises and projects to help you unleash your child's potential and prepare them for success in the wider world.