You don't need to hide your shocked faces. It's ok. In the spirit of over-sharing that is the hallmark of this blog, I thought I'd just come clean and let you all know at once.
Mr NilsenLife knows about it, and is incredibly supportive, if a bit worried about how it'll play out. My kids know about it, and as with most things I decide, they figure if Mommy thinks it's smart, they'll go along with the plan. My parents know too. They think it's the right thing for my family.
So: I'm starting an affair - an affair with homeschool.
I flirted heavily with homeschool last year. In fact, I think it's safe to say that homeschool and I got to third base: I bought a full curriculum, notified the school, made lesson plans. But at the last minute, I chickened out.
I couldn't go through with it. It's risky behavior - dare I say transgressive? Maybe not so much anymore. Maybe lots of people are doing it and as usual I'm late to the swingin' party.
When I tell friends about it, the 'holy moly, I thought this girl was sane!' thought bubble pops up momentarily. Then they smile and say "I'm sure you can do it. I'm just not the kind of person who could ever do that." They're not judging; rather, they're worried about me. They're concerned that I don't know what I'm getting into. They worry about what it'll do to my family.
But the allure of homeschool... so seductive. Slow mornings in pajamas, school outside at the picnic table on nice days, allowing time in the schedule for snow storms or beautiful spring afternoons, field trips every week if we want. We will indulge a small scientist's fascination with The Way Things Work, we will examine the Walters Art Gallery at our leisure, away from the weekend crowds, and we will take a tour of the fire station.
Everyone knows affairs have their dark side. Knowing you're flouting conventions, always wondering if you're doing the right thing: all of this will arise I'm sure. Perhaps by missing kindergarten in a classroom, my boy-child may be deprived of the experience of a lifetime. Who knows.
What I do know is that I don't enter into this without thought, without some serious prayer. I am following a mother's heart, and much of what's in my head backs my heart up. I have a little guy who isn't quite ready to sit in circle time and listen. A bright boy who is incredibly curious, incredibly thoughtful, and convinced it is not his right to demand any attention. A small boy, born with a full head of hair and a serious expression - both make him seem more grown up than he is. A boy who's learned to disappear in the noise and stress of a houseful of people - a boy who deserves his moments in the sun with Mom.
He will make his way in the world. He will do beautifully in school when he gets there. But for one short beautiful season in his life, he will be allowed to be just Lars.
I'm getting involved in this thing for my boy.
11 comments:
Your last paragraph is just gorgeous. Enjoy it. You can always adjust as needed. There internet is bursting with creative ideas, as I'm sure you already know.
i flirted with the idea last year when we were moving to this new city...
i think it will be wonderful for him and you! i am anxious to hear about it as you go along.
I knew, as early as when I learned I was pregnant with Oliver, that I would home school my kids. However, for the first time this week I had my first glimmer of doubt. It was while reading FB updates by all my American mom friends about their kids going back to school and how now they can exhale. Sometimes I really want to exhale... Luckily I still have another two years before I make a decision but in the meantime I am behind you 100 per cent (for what it's worth ;-)
Is it just L. or C. too?
You're the best Mom!! Someday your kids will understand just how wonderful.
I dance around that idea all the time. I still have a couple of years but you're right, it is very seductive. And given how often traditional public schools just can't meet the needs of kids, it is that much more appealing. Good for you! I can't wait to hear how it goes!
That is awesome. It sounds like you really know your child and what he needs and are ready to be there for him and give him that. I applaud you.
When it seemed we couldn't find a school for Jacob for next year, that was one of the options we were holding in reserve, but in our case it would have been much trickier. I had run a home therapy pre-school program for him from the age of 2 to 4, so I knew I could do it. It's just that right now his biggest need is for socialization, to learn how to function better in a group and make friends, and for that an external school is best. I am so glad we found a good one at the last minute, but while we were considering the homeschool option I was savoring the idea of having so much more time with him, being more intimately involved with his education again.
Good luck & let us know how it goes!
"A bright boy who is incredibly curious, incredibly thoughtful, and convinced it is not his right to demand any attention. A small boy, born with a full head of hair and a serious expression - both make him seem more grown up than he is. A boy who's learned to disappear in the noise and stress of a houseful of people - a boy who deserves his moments in the sun with Mom." ~ that made me cry. Praying for you and your family. Enjoy this time.
Wow - good for you, Kirsten!
So seductive, it called my back this year! I home schooled four of my kids for five years. Little man came along and I plunked them all back in school for three years. Two of my kids are miserable and would tell me on a regular basis "We aren't learning anything!" I caved. I'm bringing two home this year. It's a life that has seduced my husband as well. His support for this romance is greater than before! You go girl!! There is a great home school/co-op school in your hood called HISS. I also know a few families in your area...let me know if you want a connect!!
~Kristin
Good for you, Kirsten! If anyone can do it, it's you. Oh, and keep me posted. I'm entertaining the idea of homeschooling EV as well or starting up a charter. Exploring lots of options! I think you and Lars are going to simply devour your special exploratory time together ~ it might be a bit bumpy along the way, but grace yourself with the support of your friends, family and other home schoolers. What a gift you're giving your boy! Like my mother-in-law always tells me, there's nothing like following your gut ~ a mother always knows what's best for her kid(s). Enjoy this special time!
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