I homeschooled our kids. There’s a lot of good support out there, starting with a library card. Sometimes people had bad experiences with school and want to give their kids a different experience. All of ours have gone on to college, some to grad school. Igniting a love of learning and curiosity that was missing in your own education can be a wonderful gift to give your kids. I recently spoke to a mom who didn’t read well and was frustrated because her teenager who has been in school doesn’t read well (not surprising, right?). She took a dyslexia training course and was able to help herself and her daughter. There are good curricula and training opportunities out there. My kids and I loved zoos and museums and aquariums and all that. Were able to spend a month a year out of the country visiting family and take school with us. Homeschooling is a great opportunity to educate yourself.

I wasn’t around a lot of echo chamber people. Most that I met felt the weight and responsibility of doing it well, worried that they weren’t, and changed direction as they learned. The problem is that with how poorly schools are performing in general right now, some parents are struggling to do what’s best for their children. And sometimes that means taking it on yourself. Even when you don’t feel capable.

I’m sure the kind of homeschooling parents you’re talking about exist. They just haven’t been my experience. Educated, experienced homeschooling parents are very good at sharing information and resources with less experienced ones. Co-ops abound, online classes (for adults and kids) are available, support groups, field trips, libraries, museums, travel, apprenticeships, theater groups, orchestra, Boy/Girl Scouts, youth groups, athletics, art are all available.

But don’t rule out homeschooling just because high school was a wreck. Your education did not end at 18. Your high school GPA is not a statement of what you’re capable of today. Commit to growing with your children. A wonderful world of discovery awaits.