Well, I did it.

Not what I set out to do, but rather a variation on the plan.

My son will be joining the ranks at cyber school next year.

Why?

For many of the reasons I stated in my last piece.

Mainly, for the ability to self-pace his education.

Whereas I set out to use a traditional home school curriculum offered free of charge from the cyber school, once in the interview I realized that this would not be the best entry into the world of school at home . . . at least not for our household.

Instead, I chose a method where I would serve as more of the support and resource teacher, rather than the soul educator. I liked the organization of logging on to see what my son would need to complete each day, the flexibility of “bookmarking” assignments if we need to run out, and the ability to supplement with a language in 3rd grade – which our school system does not offer. My son can also take photography – something he has become interested in as of recent. And I, as his “resource teacher” can supplement where I see fit.

I’ve already connected with friends who do the same method and have an organized “gym” time, there’s an art curriculum he can follow, or I can give him art lessons in town, and I’m very much looking forward to getting connected with Family Link for field trips, etc. My son has already helped me reorganize my office.

He’s excited.

We’re excited.

The challenge for me will be to set up very specific “work” hours for a demanding home business that I run. This was also a factor in our choosing an interactive method of home schooling (albeit not the virtual classroom option) over the “mom is the solo educator” experience. I’ve been saying for a year now that I need to set better work hours – but I really had no reason to do so since I’m home alone everyday. This will force me to make that adjustment.

As for connections? There will be plenty of opportunities for him to connect with other children. I will be responsible for seeing to that.

He is now enrolled for the Fall.

And yet, if August comes along and he decides that he really wants to attend regular traditional school, I honestly have no issue with that. For he is the type of kid that will do well in that environment. I just keep feeling the pangs of wanting to give the self-motivated, self-learner in him, “more”. Thus, we are going to explore this new path!

Are you a home schooling family? Traditional? Cyber?

Any tips for me as we move forward?