So, homeschooling.

[pinusresinosa]

I do agree with the lack of structure. Not because I like structure, but because I'm concerned that my children need to be able to be marketable in the workforce as adults... and a sad reality is, the traditional schooling structure is designed to prepare them for that.

Sounds great though.

 

[sanchabird]

I do agree with the lack of structure. Not because I like structure, but because I'm concerned that my children need to be able to be marketable in the workforce as adults... and a sad reality is, the traditional schooling structure is designed to prepare them for that.

Sounds great though.

There is only a lack of structure if you don't provide it. Homeschooling is a great thing by the way.

 

[mom-to-5]

I have 5 kids ages 11-2 and we homeschool them all! It's such a pleasure and sometimes a struggle but it is the best choice I have made for our family.
Like you, I started my oldest in public school. I never really thought of homeschooling but just a few weeks into kindergarten I started to think of other options and after 3 months decided to pull my son from the public school system and have been homeschooling since.
One big thing I have learned is that every kid is SO different and needs different things. My oldest son, whom we pulled out of kindergarten, is very bright and easy to teach. That's why the public school wasn't working for him. He was multiplying and everyone else was counting to twenty. He was bored!
My 10 yr old is more main stream but my 7 yr old has learning disabilities and sensory integration problems. But regardless everyone learns in different ways and you can adapt most curriculums to suit their needs.
Because I was new to homeschooling, at first we started with Calvert. I bought it used so it was affordable. I liked having a set lesson, being told how to introduce a subject, etc. This was comforting for me at first and my children liked it. We have branched and extended on it now as I have gotten more comfortable (use different math, add to the science, etc).
And as someone else said, don't deny the learning experiences that will come naturally on a daily basis just from being together more often. Like learning fractions (1/2 cup of flour for baking, cutting a pizza into 8th's, etc), science experiments in your own garden. My kids helped with the planning and building of our coop...math skills!
Also, one last note, we make an effort to volunteer as a family once a month (yes, during a school day), to give back to the community. Then we draw pictures, write and discuss our experience.
Good luck on your decision. I feel very strongly that homeschooling has made us a stronger family and my children, brighter, more responsible and compassionate individuals.