The Homeschool Curse!

Homeschool families (moms especially) sometimes fall into a certain trap. I'm calling it "The Homeschool Curse". It starts by one homeschooler talking to another homeschooler. It's an innocent question "so what do you do?" Naturally, the homeschooler will then research that particularly program, because it really does sound Good. And maybe its Better than what she is doing. Or maybe it would make a good supplement or addition to what is currently being done. So. It whirlwinds out of control as the homeschooler is always hearing what other families are doing, and it always sounds BETTER. Should she abandon ship and try it? Should she buy it and start it next year? This is a constant struggle for me, and I never cease to hear from other moms that have a closet full of homeschool materials that either didn't work, or didn't get used. Even homeschool methodology always sounds better coming from another family. Here are some examples:

Homeschool family 1 started their children at the age of 3. They quickly learned to read and recite Bible verses. By age 4, they were reading Dr. Seuss, and by age 5, reading the Chronicles of Narnia for their own enjoyment.

Homeschool family 2 did unschooling. Their children didn't learn to read until age 8, but taught themselves. They skipped reading little kid material and from the first moment on, read Shakespeare.

Homeschool family 3 started their children on piano at the age of 3, violin at age 4, and guitar by age 5.

Homeschool family 4 uses Phonics Pathways and LOVE it. Homeschool family 5 uses Learning Language Arts Through Literature and LOVE it. Homeschool family 6 uses 100 Easy Lessons and its always worked for them.

And then there are the families that are doing various science, history, and art programs, and a bazillion other things besides.

ARRRGGGHHHH!

The families that I have seen successfully avoid the curse have a great sense of stick-to-it-tiveness. They might look at your program, smile, nod, and say "that looks nice". But then they turn their eyes upon their own program, and progress with it. They might jump ship once or twice, but very seldom. Only because something really wasn't working, and they knew it. But they latch on to the system that is working for them: it may not be glamorous, it may neglect art or foreign language, but they know their child has a good foundation in all the basics. So they put blinders on to all the other programs out there, and just stay the course.