Homeschooling: Shared Life, Shared Memories, Shared Bond

As a homeschooling mom, I feel that children raised in homeschooling families have so many benefits, including the opportunity to share life with their siblings.

I grew up with one sibling of the opposite gender. We lived in the same house, attended the same church, and enjoyed the same family vacations, but we didn’t actually share many of the same memories. We were involved in separate activities, even at church. We were never in the same school. We didn’t play any of the same sports. We didn’t have many friends in common. I think this situation is very typical, especially for families with one boy and one girl who attend traditional schools.

So, how is homeschooling different? We choose to spend all of our time together. We do schoolwork together. We do chores together. We eat meals together. We do activities together. We are friends with whole families! Our friends are of all ages! Most of what we do is family-integrated—even at church. We do not often split up for separate activities. We share life. We share memories. The result is a deep and shared bond.

We learn from each other in all situations—how to meet people, join in, show kindness, and get along. God puts children in a family in a particular order for a reason. Often, the oldest child breaks the ice and leads the way for the younger siblings. What a blessing this is! And the younger kids love and admire their oldest sibling. The siblings observe and learn about everyone’s special interests and talents. They participate in each other’s life.

Siblings do not grow close by accident. It takes constant attention to fairness, justice, and character building from the parent. You want to prevent bullying and bitterness in the home. It can be hard work, yet what a wonderful reward for your efforts! You end up with young adults who love and support each other, keep in touch, and share special events. They have a lifelong bond partly because they have so many shared memories and friends. They often share the same faith in God, which is a special and precious fellowship. They truly enjoy each other’s company. All of that time we have spent together has really paid off!

Of course, families can achieve this closeness without homeschooling, but I see it as a huge contributing factor. I see it as a gift! I’m so very thankful for it. And I think my children are too!

Dava Banner has been married for thirty-seven years and has three fine sons. She and her family live on a small farm in Crouse.