Reason #6 - Socialization

I know that it probably sounds odd to use socialization as a reason to homeschool.  Especially since it is the first thing that everyone is really worried about when you mention homeschooling.  But, give me a minute to explain... 

Socialization ... the first question ... the main concern of everyone ....  Are you worried that your kids won't have socialization???  How are they going to survive in the real world without the socialization of a school setting???  First of all, my son has been in public school for 5 years and is as shy as they come.  I can't imagine the comments that we would get if he had been homeschooled those 5 years!!  Some people are shy.  It is his personality.  And public school didn't change that. 

We live in a neighborhood with tons of kids.  Every day we have about 5 knocks on our door for the kids to go out and play.  The kids also have their hockey team and church activities.  They have plenty of social interaction with kids their age.  I want them to have social interaction with people of different ages and that can be done while homeschooled. 

There are also two different kinds of socialization - good and bad.  As the kids get older, the bad socialization gets stronger... and it seems to happen earlier and earlier.  No, I don't want to shelter my kids.  And this is not the main reason that we chose to homeschool.  But it is a definite benefit! And believe me they hear enough in the hockey locker room!!   

So, if you ask if I am concerned about my kids being socialized and I say no with a little *giggle*.  This is why.  I personally believe that they will be more well-rounded socially by being homeschooled.