Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Monsters of Homeschooling: Doubt

Oh that little monster called Doubt. It sneaks in and robs you of your confidence and joy. Even if you can see it coming you are often not equipped to face it and make it flee.

It doesn't help that we hear the seeds of doubt all around us. If you tell someone that you homeschool, you'll most likely hear responses along the lines of:

I could never do that.
How are you going to teach them Algebra?

How do you know you're doing enough?
 
Don't you get burnt out?
 

When people ask you these questions, I am sure that their intentions are not to plant seeds of doubt. They are simply stating their own doubts and questions on how they would handle your situation. Anytime you do something outside the norm, you raise questions in each person you talk to about it.

Regardless of their intentions, these questions can find their way into our hearts and minds. 

So what can you do about it? 

1. Be prepared for these questions and understand the hidden power they contain. While it is a simple question or statement, it can plant itself if you are unaware.  

2. Come up with some responses that will help you to deflect the doubt. Of course, be as nice as possible. You certainly don't ever have to defend your choices to anyone, but you should be watchful of the doubt monster.

3. Find a confidant that shares your views on homeschooling. This can be your spouse, family member, or close friend. If you're part of a homeschool group, this would be a great topic to discuss. Having a support system can help you navigate the tough patches. It's also comforting to know that other homeschool parents share the same struggles. 


Be confident in who you are and the decisions you have made.

 

3 comments:

  1. Numerous of my homeschool (mom) friends have teaching degrees! I find this very ironic! But I keep up with a variety of homeschooling community on our blog...come join us! https://www.facebook.com/OneHomeschoolMom

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  2. WHAT A FANTASTIC POST!!!
    Every home educator needs to read this post because we all face the doubt monster. Even with a teaching degree and homeschooling 15 years, that pesty creature still pops his head in our home from time to time. He should know better by now!

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  3. I agree with Tamara! What a GREAT post!! Thanks for sharing this helpful information!

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