By John Evans
www.amazon.com
74 Rainy Ave.
San Antonio, TX 78240
210-681-6317
I think all homeschoolers or potential homeschoolers worry at times if they are doing the right thing. We also run into friends or family members occasionally who don't agree with our choices. Being reminded of why you are doing what you are doing and how to do your best at it is a great way to stay focused. Clint's Story: A Public Schoolteacher's
Case for Homeschooling does just that. Because it is written by a former public school teacher, both sides are given and there is no bias. The author is not against public schools; in fact, he has a child who attended and graduated from one. The purpose of the book is to show how homeschooling can be the best option for many children, especially those who are not thriving in the public school system.
Many homeschoolers are faced with opposition and negative comments. The author gives good advice on how to handle these situations. A realistic approach is taken by showing the benefits a homeschooler will have, such as time, life lessons, field trips, college, and more. But on the other side of that, the book also shows the downside to this method and what it requires of the parents.
Public school is not for every child because of certain deficiencies present in a classroom situation. Many of these are explained, and then five steps are given to show how a homeschool program can work. I thought the tips for becoming a good teacher to your child were especially inspiring. Even those of us who have been homeschooling for a while need to hear what to focus on.
Throughout the book, the author refers to different resources he used with Clint and where to find them. I always like to hear about products that have been successful with other students. You'll also find a recommended reading list and a list of useful websites in the back of the book. The topic of graduation, which is sometimes overlooked, is covered, including the reason why having one is important.
I found this to be a quick read with useful suggestions. Someone contemplating homeschooling or a beginner starting out would find this book especially helpful. Even if you are a veteran homeschooler, this book gives great information about the important elements we need to be reminded of.
Product review by Heidi Miller-Ford, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, March 2010
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