When it comes to our children’s education we can
never be too careful. We want what’s best for them, but what is best?
I have always believed that children need to
interact with other people and children. At public schools, our children are
exposed to different cultures, beliefs, and just other people other than their
parents and siblings at home. For this reason I have personally ruled out home
schooling. As much as I would love to keep my child close to me at all times
and have him learn what I teach him, I know that’s merely impossible and maybe
even partly unhealthy for his social and personal development.
Every teachers brings something to the table and
teaches our children something different in different ways. This helps our children
develop the way they learn best. Some children are more visual while others are
more hands on.
So, ruling out home schooling, what is best?
I realize trying to answer what is best for children’s
education is a little vague because there is no wrong or right answer. Ask
every parent and every parent will have a different opinion.
I don’t believe there is much difference between
private and public schools. I have met some brilliant kids from both. Ultimately,
education starts at home. If you teach your children to finish what they start, to do chores and then play time, be responsible, go to bed early, be on time, and
begin reading to them from a small age, I believe children pick up on these habits. These habits will begin to reflect through their study habits once they’re
in school regardless if they attend public or private school.
Bullying is another issue to raise concern which may
make some parents to better opt for home schooling. It is a very scary thought
of my son being emotionally and/or physically harmed or he being the bully! I was
bullied at a very young age. However, my mother was always very communicative
with me and my sister and encouraged us to do the same, so I did. Any time I had
a problem, I always told my mom and she always knew how to handle the problem.
She also taught me that problems cannot be avoided. Problems need to be
properly approached and handled. There will be bullies in the real world too
and there is no avoiding it so there is no use in keeping our children safe at
home. It sounds pretty ideal, trust me, but ultimately we would be doing our
children more harm than good.
It’s up to the parents’ judgment whether private or
public school is best but my advice is to save those extra bucks for their
pricey college tuition someday. The best education we can give our children is
to allow them to explore, interact, and grow around other people and children.