A few thought on supplementary classes ...

There is much to be gained by homeschooling parents sharing areas of expertise with one another to enrich the homeschooling journey.  And there is certainly an abundance of opportunities for enrichment here in Arizona. However, it is helpful to be reminded that the two pillars of home education are "home" and "parents".   We would caution parents to use outside classes and activities as a supplement to what you are teaching your children at home for their core subjects. If we are not careful, we can end up outsourcing or brokering out much of our children's education.  This, in our opinion, is contrary to the heart of homeschooling.

According to Arizona homeschool law, the definition of a home school means "a school conducted primarily by the parent, guardian or other person who has custody of the child or instruction provided in the child's home." (Emphasis ours).  We encourage homeschooling families to focus on parent-led education in the home with occasional supplementary classes and activities, if desired, that enhance the homeschool experience.

One of the primary reasons many people say they want to homeschool is to pass on their values and build family closeness.   If we are constantly running around to activities all day or splitting up the family, we undermine one of our major goals in homeschooling.

Some of the great by-products of homeschooling can include a homeschool mom with a gentle and quiet spirit, and healthy children growing in godly character whose minds are active and bodies supported with good food and rest.  The real achievement is in the willingness to daily submit our will to the Lord and allow him to guide and direct our families.  If we could use one word to describe the whole outsourcing frenzy it would be "distraction."   We need to encourage one another to sit at the feet of Jesus Christ and gaze upon him.   Only then will our homeschool or any other aspect of our lives be fruitful.

We are thankful for the many opportunities available to us as homeschoolers!   It's exciting to be part of such a vibrant, active homeschooling community.  It's a great testimony to each of you and what you're willing to share with others as to the variety of activities, classes and learning opportunites that exist.  In the face of so many wonderful choices, we think that it is vital for families to be choosy.

Each of our children has a God-given purpose, gifts and talents.  Our job as parents, of course, is to nurture those gifts.  In our family, we've come to realize that not every "good" idea is a "God idea".   When we do participate in outside activities, we try to choose things that will encourage godly character, build godly relationships and nurture the gifts and talents the Lord has placed in our children.  

We trust that you will find beneficial resources on this web site and that you would seek the Lord about what He would lead your family to participate in.   Enjoy!

Blessings,  James and Nancy