Brief History of American Homeschooling
In the United States, homeschooling is a growing phenomenon. It’s not clear exactly how many students are homeschooled, but it is believed to be in the millions. Homeschooling has become more popular for several reasons. It is flexible and allows families to individualize their student’s education. Homeschooling can also offer a more relaxed atmosphere than traditional schools. Students can spend more time on subjects they enjoy, and parents have the freedom to be more involved in their children’s education.
Although the term “homeschooling” didn’t appear in the English language until the 19th century, there is evidence that American families have been teaching their kids at home since the early 1600s. Many of the earliest American schools were private, and teachers taught both religion and secular lessons. Parents were responsible for preparing and delivering the lessons. Some homeschoolers are also involved in community service activities and provide their children with opportunities to participate in extracurricular events.
Despite their differences, homeschool american history share a common belief that the family is the foundation of society and that the health of the nation depends on the strength of its families. This was the same concern that inspired progressive reformers in the twentieth century to push for extended schooling, and it is now the motivation of thousands of Americans who have chosen to reject public education.
A Brief History of American Homeschooling
The modern homeschooling movement began in the 1970s, when two fervent activists, John Holt and Raymond Moore, made their voices heard. Holt, a fifth-grade teacher, published the book Compulsory Miseducation, while Moore, an educational theorist, wrote Home Grown Kids. Both argued that public schooling was harmful to young children, and that a well-rounded education could only be provided at home.
Both groups were opposed to compulsory education laws, which required all children to attend a public or state-accredited private school for a certain number of years. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, many homeschooling families were involved in legal battles over these laws. One of the most significant cases involved three Amish families who challenged Wisconsin’s compulsory attendance law, arguing that their choice to homeschool was an expression of religious freedom.
Today, the homeschooling movement is a broad and diverse group of families that represents every conceivable religious, political and economic background in America. Some are evangelical Christians who use a specific curriculum, while others follow a more eclectic approach to learning. In general, most homeschoolers agree that a strong academic program should include reading, writing, math, science and social studies. In addition, most homeschoolers emphasize the importance of developing good character and values in their children. They also believe that the family is central to a child’s development.
Many homeschooling families also organize homeschool co-ops, where their students meet together for classes such as art instruction, music lessons and sports. These co-ops often host lectures and field trips. Parents can also find local, regional and national homeschooling support groups. These groups can help them to connect with other homeschoolers, obtain teaching resources and learn more about local cultural events.