A Pastor Looks at Home Schooling

No topic has engendered more

debate/discussion than

homeschooling.  While the

practice has been around for

centuries, it is relatively new

to the American Christian

community.  Few Christian

families homeschooled their

children 30 years ago.  That

fact is rapidly reversing itself

as parents face the immense challenges of a secularized culture.  Initially, critics attacked homeschoolers on two fronts: (1) The Quality of Education, and (2) The Socialization of Their Children.  Both criticisms have been shown to be spurious by a number of studies on homeschooled children.  These children have done exceptionally well on standardized tests; some have attended the top universities in the country.  Their social skills frequently excel their public-school counterparts.  The commitment of their parents combined with state-of-the-art materials produces an educational climate superior to many public and private schools.  "Hats off" to Christian parents who dedicate themselves to instilling a Christian worldview in their children.

However, homeschooling is not without problems.  These problems are not apparent on achievement tests or social research surveys.  Rather, they are weaknesses connected to the very structure of homeschooling.  Most homeschoolers are not aware of these core dangers, nor can they identify them in their own experience.

What Are the Weaknesses?

First, there is a danger of slipping into an arrogant and judgmental attitude.  It is easy for homeschoolers to think, "I have dedicated myself to giving my children the best Christian education possible.  I'm willing to sacrifice in order to teach them at home.  Our family may not have what other families enjoy, but our children come first.  I will not entrust them to public-school teachers.  I want them to grow and learn in a godly environment."  There's nothing wrong with that thought process until it is used to evaluate other Christian parents.  What about the Christian father and mother who decide to send their children to a public school or to a Christian Day school?  Are those parents less concerned about the spiritual nurture of their children?  Are they less willing to sacrifice for the welfare of their family?  Obviously, there are many godly parents who have not chosen the path of homeschooling.  Yet, it is very difficult for homeschoolers to see that God graciously works in other educational venues.  Consequently, it is easy to conclude, "They are not as committed as we are.  They have been influenced by the world.  We need to pray for them."  Such spiritual pride can drive a wedge between brothers and sisters in Christ and fragment the church.

Second, there is a danger of producing self-centered children.  The strength of a family centered atmosphere can also be a weakness.  If the family is continually structured around the children's needs, a child can develop a "world revolves around me" attitude.  Some homeschool families plan everything around the education of their children.  This may lead to an unhealthy self-love.  Children need to learn the "give and take" of life.

Third, there is a danger of losing the vibrancy of the marriage relationship.  Homeschooling can be an "all-encompassing" activity.  During those educational years, the children are the priority.  Some may say, "That's how it should be!"  The Bible teaches differently.  Solomon instructs, "Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your life... for this is your reward in life..." (Ecc.9:9).  The bond between husband and wife must be the priority in a Christian family.  It takes precedence over the children.  Why?  If there is not a growing love and respect between Dad and Mom, the family health is crippled.  Children need the example and security which comes from a loving marital union.  Some homeschool parents are going to face immense adjustment and relationship problems when the children eventually leave home. As strange as it sounds, a strong marriage is more valuable to children than a quality education.

What Should We Do?

Homeschooling can be one effective way to bring up our children "in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."  It is not the only way.  It is an option with strengths and weaknesses.  Christian parents need to be aware of and sensitive to all of its elements.  Above all, let us pray for one another as we seek to transmit God's eternal truth to the next generation.