Argument Against Homeschooling - Socialization
The most common argument against homeschooling is one of socialization. Many non-homeschooling families believe that home schooled children are kept isolated from other children or people in general. They say that children in school settings get the chance to be with their peers all day long.
This argument against homeschooling is not supported by research. Also, many homeschool families counter it by asking if being with children all the same age is appropriate socialization to begin with.
Argument Against Homeschooling - Lack of Curriculum
Another argument against homeschooling is the notion that your child will be exposed to more limited curriculum. Due to availability or cost, it is true that some resources will not be available. However, this argument against homeschooling seems to ignore the vast curriculum, library, and interest resources that are available.
Argument Against Homeschooling - No Multiculturalism
In this politically correct world, some people think that children should be exposed to many different cultures. One possible argument against homeschooling is that the child will not interact daily with people of different races or religions. However, since religion is not discussed in school, and since the race of a school child will be the same in the school as in the community at large, this argument against homeschooling falls flat.
Argument Against Homeschooling - No Testing or Assessment
Public schools are very big on testing and assessment of the student's progress. Some people are against homeschooling because there is little emphasis on testing. However, many state laws require incremental testing of homeschool children, and families can purchase standardized tests from educational sources whenever they want.
Argument Against Homeschooling - Reduces Funds for Schools
The most outlandish argument against homeschooling that I have ever heard is that it reduces funding for public schools, and thus leaves other children at a disadvantage. It is true in many cases that the amount of money a school receives is based on enrollment numbers. The more children who are home schooled, the less money goes to the school. This argument against homeschooling is absurd, as homeschool families still pay school taxes, and their child is not in the school to need the money that would otherwise come from the state.
These arguments against homeschooling must be considered in your decision on how to educate your children. If you decide to homeschool them, you should be prepared to defend your position against these arguments against homeschooling.
