Debunking 5 Myths About Homeschooling

Debunking 5 Myths About Homeschooling

May 31, 2023 | Family & Home, Homeschool

Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional schooling over the years. However, despite its growing popularity, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding homeschooling. Some people believe that homeschooled children lack social skills, while others assume that homeschooling is only for religious families.

In this blog, we will debunk 5 myths and provide a more accurate understanding of what homeschooling entails.

 

Myth #1: Homeschooled Kids Aren’t Exposed to as Much as Kids Within Traditional Education

The myth that homeschooled kids isn’t exposed to as much as kids within traditional education is not entirely accurate. While it’s true that homeschooled kids do not have the same exposure to traditional classroom settings, they are exposed to many other learning opportunities that can be just as valuable.

Homeschooled children often have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of interests and hobbies that they might not have time for in a traditional school setting. They can also have more flexibility in scheduling, which allows them to pursue extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer work. Many homeschooling families also participate in co-ops, where children attend classes, workshops, and other group activities with other homeschoolers.

In addition, homeschooled children often have more one-on-one attention from their parents or tutors, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the material they are studying. They can also work at their own pace, which can lead to more in-depth exploration of topics that interest them.

Myth #2: Parents Must Have Experience in the Education System to Homeschool Their Kids

The myth that a parent must have experience in the education system to homeschool is simply not true. While having experience in education can certainly be helpful, it is not a requirement for homeschooling.

In fact, there are many resources available to parents who choose to homeschool their children, including curriculum guides, online courses, and support groups. I’ve used plenty throughout my journey. Many homeschooling parents also learn alongside their children, and there are many resources available to help parents educate themselves on the subjects they are teaching.

Furthermore, homeschooling is a highly individualized form of education, which means that parents can tailor their approach to their child’s specific needs and learning style. This can be especially beneficial for children who may struggle in traditional classroom settings, as homeschooling can provide a more personalized and supportive learning environment.

While some states may have specific requirements for homeschooling parents, such as completing a certain amount of education or training, these requirements are often minimal and can be easily met.

Myth #3: Homeschooled Kids Can’t Go to Ivy League Schools

The myth that homeschooled kids can’t go to Ivy League schools is simply not true. Homeschooled students have been accepted to Ivy League universities and other prestigious institutions of higher education.

In fact, homeschooled students often have unique experiences and accomplishments that can make them stand out in the college application process. They typically have more flexibility to pursue their interests and passions, which can lead to impressive extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships. And as I mentioned before, homeschooling can also provide a more personalized and individualized education, which can lead to a deeper understanding of subjects and higher levels of academic achievement.

While the college application process can be more challenging for homeschooled students, there are many resources available to help them navigate the process and demonstrate their qualifications. For example, some colleges and universities may require additional documentation, such as detailed transcripts and portfolios of work, but homeschooling parents can work with organizations that specialize in preparing these materials. With the right preparation and support, homeschooled students can achieve academic success and pursue their dreams. 

 

Myth #4: Homeschooled Kids Can’t Play School Sports

The myth that homeschooled kids can’t play school sports is not entirely accurate. While it is true that homeschooled children may not have access to school sports teams in the same way that traditional school students do, there are still many opportunities for homeschooled children to participate in sports.

In many states, homeschooled children are eligible to participate in public school sports and extracurricular activities. This is often referred to as “homeschool access” or “equal access” legislation. Some states may have specific requirements, such as proof of academic progress or certain eligibility requirements, but in general, homeschooled children can participate in school sports as long as they meet the same standards as traditional school students.

In addition, there are many other options for homeschooled children who want to participate in sports. Homeschooling organizations, community sports leagues, and private clubs often offer sports programs and teams for homeschooled children. These programs can provide opportunities for homeschooled children to socialize, compete, and develop their athletic skills.

Myth #5: Homeschool Kids Are Socially Awkward

The myth that homeschooled kids are socially awkward is simply not true. While there may be some homeschooled children who struggle with social skills, there is no evidence to suggest that homeschooling inherently leads to social awkwardness. In fact, my kids are amazing in social settings.

There are many opportunities for homeschooled children to socialize and develop strong social skills. Homeschooling parents often organize social activities and field trips for their children, and there are many homeschooling support groups and co-ops that offer regular opportunities for social interaction.

Furthermore, homeschooled children often have more flexibility in their schedules, which allows them to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships. These experiences can provide valuable opportunities for socialization and help homeschooled children develop strong interpersonal skills.

It is worth noting that social awkwardness is not limited to homeschooled children. Children in traditional school settings can also struggle with social skills, and there are many factors that can contribute to social difficulties, such as personality traits, developmental differences, and life experiences

Whether you are a parent considering homeschooling for your child or simply interested in learning more about this educational option, I wrote this blog to help provide valuable insights and information. I hope it helps guide you in the right direction for YOU.

 

 

God’s Timing & Extending Grace to Yourself

God’s Timing & Extending Grace to Yourself

Mar 30, 2023 | Faith

The start of a new season can be a time filled with pressure to become the best version of yourself. The resolutions you made at the beginning of last year (or the top of this year) either happened or did not. Whether you accomplished all of your goals or didn’t quite meet them, feeling constant pressure to change and improve can be overwhelming. You have to give yourself grace and remember to trust God’s timing. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

Diamonds form under pressure—we’ve heard this fact our entire lives. However, just because we didn’t accomplish our full to-do list this year doesn’t mean that we are anything less than a diamond. In God’s timing, we will all flourish into the diamonds He’s calling us to be. It’s essential that we wait patiently on Him and His timing to shape and mold us individually into the diamond He needs us to be.

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21). 

We can do amazing things that are not essentially God’s things.

So rest knowing that just because you didn’t check all the boxes doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Maybe some of those things weren’t in proper alignment. You must have faith that the things you thought you needed may not have been right for you at that moment. God has a plan, and oftentimes, we don’t understand it at first. 

I encourage you to take every goal and plan you have before the throne and ask God to order your steps. Ask Him to empty you and fill you with Him. He must increase, but we must decrease.

Being filled with God’s grace will help guide you on your path. Be comfortable submitting your to-do list to Him, but also be comfortable changing it if that’s not His will. Trust that He knows what you need and be open to listening to His calling. Be patient waiting on Him… sometimes His timing is not ours! 

Embrace the fresh start that is NOW. Hold God close and trust in His plan. 

 

 

Potato Soup Recipe

Potato Soup Recipe

Feb 10, 2023 | Dinner, Food, Lunch

Ingredients

  • 6 strips (uncooked) bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 3 tablespoons garlic and herb butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ lbs gold potatoes peeled and diced into pieces no larger than 1”
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ⅔ cup sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and additional sour cream and bacon for topping (optional)

Prep and Cooking Instructions:

Step 1

Dice and place bacon pieces in a large Dutch Oven pot over medium heat and cook until bacon is crisp and browned.

Step 2

Remove bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

Step 3

Add butter and chopped onion, garlic, celery, and parsley to a pot, cooking over medium heat until tender.

Step 4

Sprinkle the flour over the ingredients in the pot and stir until smooth (I use a whisk).

Step 5

Add diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and chili powder. Stir well.

Step 6

Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender.

Step 7

Reduce heat to simmer and smash potatoes until desired texture.

Step 8 

Add sour cream and half of the bacon pieces. Stir well. Allow soup to simmer for 15 minutes before serving.

Step 9

Top with additional sour cream, bacon, cheddar cheese, or chives.

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Feb 7, 2023 | Dinner, Food, Lunch

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 stick garlic and herb butter
  • 1-pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast (2½ cups rotisserie chicken when in a hurry) 
  • Creole seasoning, salt, and white pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups carrots sliced 
  • 1 1/2 cups celery sliced 
  • 1 onion diced
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons granulated chicken bouillon or bouillon cubes 
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley or 3 TBS fresh
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion soup mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 2 cups half and half 
  • 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch 
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch 
  • 2 cups wide egg noodles, uncooked
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Prep and Cooking Instructions:

Step 1

Season chicken with ½ teaspoon creole seasoning and ½ teaspoon salt & pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch pot. Once hot, add the chicken and sear until golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken to a plate but leave the drippings.

Step 2

Melt 1 stick of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in the drippings. Once melted, increase heat to medium-high and add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4 minutes scraping up the golden bits on the bottom of the pot. 

Step 3

Add garlic and sauté. Slowly sprinkle in the flour, constantly stirring for a few minutes; don’t allow the flour to stick to the bottom of the pot. This will prevent it from burning. Don’t hesitate to add additional oil if needed.

Step 4

Return chicken to the pot, and add in the chicken broth, bay leaves bouillon, other seasonings, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cover the soup and bring to a simmer over high heat, then reduce and simmer for 10-12 minutes (until chicken is tender enough to shred). Please stir occasionally to prevent the bottom from burning.

Step 5

Once the chicken becomes tender, move it to a cutting board and shred it with a fork.

Step 6

In a small measuring cup whisk cornstarch with half and half until smooth, then stir into the soup pot. Add the noodles and bring to a boil; simmer until noodles are tender, approximately 6 minutes (don’t overcook noodles!).

Step 7

Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan followed by shredded chicken. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Stir in the additional broth if desired for a less “chunky” soup. 

Lentil Soup Recipe

Lentil Soup Recipe

Feb 5, 2023 | Dinner, Food, Lunch, Main Menu

 

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, dry
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth, unsalted
  • 1 can (28oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 2 teaspoons cumin, ground
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric, ground
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion soup mix
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Creole, salt & pepper more or less to taste

Prep and Cooking Instructions:

Step 1

Chop all veggies and set them aside.

Step 2

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes or until fragrant. Add the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for another 10 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the lentils and all seasonings. Cook for 2 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir together and bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 4

Reduce heat and allow to simmer, covered, for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are cooked and tender. Remember to stir occasionally.

Step 5

Once everything is done, stir in the spinach and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach softens. Serve immediately.