Confession: We Tried Homeschooling But It Wasn’t For Us

Myths Debunked about Homeschooling

The rationale of homeschooling is not fully understood by many Filipinos. But the program has been in the mainstream for several years now. In addition, there are approximately 3000-5000 homeschoolers in the Philippines, most of them are doing well with everything they do.

Let me debunk some of the myths about homeschooling, so you could go on with your plan.

Myth 1: Homeschooling will lessen your social skills

Not true. My kids are sociable because of their experience meeting other people. We take them to events, introduce them to our clients, and from there they learn how to socialize. It helped boost their self-confidence. It taught them how to behave in those kinds of situations. And most importantly, they developed social skills.

Hailee Steinfeld

On a personal note, I love Hailee as she was a product of homeschool, an alternative learning program, from 2008 until she graduated in High School last year. She also appeared on the movie Pitch Perfect 2. She is active in social media, as well. Just recently, she visited the Philippines and explored the historical Intramuros, Manila.

Myth 2: They have limited resources

Nope.

Just going to the supermarket is already a learning experience for them. You could teach them how to read prices (math & reading), introduce math by asking them how many items you have in the cart, and the list goes on, buddy.

Moreover, if you are at a buffet, take the opportunity to teach them table manners, where to start, and explain the varieties offered there.

Ultimately, when you travel out of town or country, that’s already an educational trip for them.

For instance, we recently flew to Davao and that was their first time to ride an airplane. Luckily, Philippines AirAsia has this special lane for elders, pregnant women, and traveling with children. We didn’t have to stand in line and get stressed over checking-in.

I tried Homeschool But I failed

Anyhow, since we already introduced Davao and riding in an airplane through reading books, they aren’t clueless about it anymore.

Another essential contribution would be the help of learning centers. We recently tried this new innovative center in Makati called The Ultimate Learning Accelerator or TULA.

TULA

TULA helps unlock the potential of the Filipino children

What makes them standout from the rest is their diverse and innovative trend in learning. They teach skills that are important in life like problem-solving skills, camaraderie, and adaptation.

TULA

When we visited the center, we saw them teaching the kids on how to create an effective and efficient presentation. I will be featuring them soon.

Truthfully, there are heaps of misconceptions about homeschooling. But after trying it for two years, I must admit, it was one of the highlights of our lives: we’ve secured our children’s personalities and we have established that special bond with them.

Over To You

I wouldn’t say our homeschooling journey is a failure.It’s more of how homeschooling helped us grow as parents. It’s just not for everyone. It’s just not for us.

Homeschooling is beneficial. Your objective of homeschooling must be intact. It should be a predominant commitment similar to marriage. Once you’re in, try not to back out.

And it’s not because your friends are on it and it definitely NOT because it’s way cheaper than paying the regular tuition fees.

Genuinely, at the end of the day, it’s you and your children who will benefit from it not them.

I hope you won’t judge us. Ideally, homeschooling is unique and a great alternative to our marginalized education system. It could be advantageous to you. But, for some, it’s difficult. It’s difficult for us. It is, however, doable.

Remember, the world is our classroom.

Manila Ocean Park

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey 

How about you: have you tried homeschooling? Your thoughts are welcome.