In some parts of the country, the new school year has already commenced; while the rest of the children are preparing to return and enjoying the last dregs of summer vacation. Though many families may view the impending academic year with trepidation and a sign that the seasons are flying by too quickly, it may be better to see this season as an opportunity to embrace new beginnings.
The back– to– school routine is pretty much the same regardless of whether a family homeschools or sends their children to a public or private school. There are still new supplies and clothing to purchase and schedules that need to be tweaked and updated. Supplies can put a dent in parents’ wallets, but this is actually an investment into a young person’s future. For a child to succeed and feel confident, they need to have the right tools at their disposal – with the most important one being their parents support and understanding.
An intentional education is a vital part of every child’s life. While many children are self-starters and need no outside encouragement to work hard and achieve, others may need to know that they have their parents understanding and support. Many parents may feel that in order to parent properly or ensure that their child does well in school; they need to push hard and demand a certain grade or performance level. However, after spending 20 years teaching my children at home and observing how they adapted to public school last year, I firmly believe that children need understanding and gentle encouragement much more than they need pressure and set standards to try and meet.
The new school year is a chance for both children and parents to hit the reset switch in life. It’s never too late to re-evaluate how one is parenting and whether it’s time to try a new approach for a particular child. Some kids look forward to the challenges a new grade brings, while others may fear that they will fall behind and struggle to get through their subjects. Parents can be a child’s greatest asset if they are willing to see school through the eyes of their student and not through the memories of their own youth or dreams they hold for their child.
Encouragement is the best gift we can give. While we all hope that our children excel in school, our idea of success can sometimes run counter to what they hope to achieve. Not every child will be a straight A student or make the honor roll every marking period. They may not be a standout athlete or a musical virtuoso – but they are indeed a unique individual with their own gifts and talents to share with the world.
For myself, I only hope for my children to walk through life with confidence and compassion for one another. I know that if they have these two virtues, they will truly be a success in life.
Writer Bio: Angela Mose
I am a mom of 7 who has successfully homeschooled for 20 years. I was married for more than 25 years and have recently started my life over. I have a passion for writing and music and when the two can be combined, it is utopia. A Maryland native, I am planning to relocate north in the near future and will continue to strive to learn and experience new things on a regular basis. I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home while exploring new ways to increase my knowledge and skills and help improve the lives of those around me.
