Homeschooling in Kenya: What you need to know

When it comes to education of your kids,  you want to make sure that they have the best education possible. There are 3 choices that you, as a parent, can make for your child's education. Those are public school, private school, and homeschooling.Time CommitmentHomeschooling can take up a great deal of time each day, particularly if you'll be homeschooling more than one child. Educating at home is more than just sitting down with the school books for a couple of hours. Rama and Shiko homeschooling parents in Kenya, emphasize on this herePersonal SacrificeHomeschooling parents sacrifice a lot! From their social engagements to work life. You need to find a balance. Homeschooling mum Canute Waswa gives tips on how to keep it together here It is important to find friends who understand and support your decision to homeschool. Getting involved in a homeschool support group can be an excellent way to connect with like-minded parents.Financial ImpactHomeschooling can be accomplished very inexpensively; however, it usually requires that the teaching parent not work outside of the home. Some sacrifices will need to be made if the family is used to two incomes. The Muiruri's family explain it hereSocial OpportunitiesThere's  a myth that homeschooled kids aren't socialized. It is true that home school parents usually need to be more intentional in helping their children find friends and social activities. Home schooled kids are not anti-social freaks.One of the benefits of homeschooling is being able to play a more active role in choosing the social contacts your child makes. Homeschool co-op classes can be a good place for children to interact with other home schooled students.Child's OpinionA willing student is always helpful. Ultimately, the decision is the parents' to make, but if your child doesn't want to homeschool, you're not likely to get started on a very positive note. Try talking to your child about his or her concerns to see if they are something you can address - not to see if they are valid. No matter how silly they may seem to you, your child's concerns are completely valid to him or her.Long-term PlanHomeschooling doesn't have to be a lifetime commitment. Many families take one year at a time, reevaluating as they go along. You don't have to have all twelve years of school figured out to begin. It's okay to try homeschooling for a year and make a decision about continuing from there.If you're a Kenyan parent interested in homeschooling your child, Nairobi Home School Limited would be a great place to consult. They organize and support all homeschooling families and groups in the larger Nairobi area.Call them on 0722-866-977  to find out more. Tell us what you think about homeschooling. Chime in here.