We Are Two Teachers | Here’s Why We Homeschool | Raising A to Z

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Why have you chosen to homeschool, or why are you maybe considering it?

[@Jas111ld]

Thank you so much, I decided to homeschool this year, mostly because my girl gets bored with the exercises. She can read and write just as fast as I can. She is going to grade 5 now, but she already learned lots of history, ex, she studied Greek and Roman mythology. Last month, she learned about ww2 history. She knows basic human body anatomy. Her interests are mostly animal world. Also , paleontology. But in school, she didn't want to do the exercises. She was always complaining about not having interest in the sentences, that she has to fill in. She loves to read real books. In school, she is literally bored. She can't stay focused, because it's not interesting, in result even though, she has the knowledge of kids that are much older, she gets low grades. So , this year, we are going for homeschooling. Also, I have to add, that she was bullied in school, after a while, every morning was a nightmare to get her to go to school. I was watching her play alone on breaks . Now, she met kids on line, that have the same interests. ( they were writing a book together), and the morning nightmares are over. Once I seen her learning about the Disney princesses, just to try to fit in, with the other girls. She would like to watch history or nature movies. We get complements about her knowledge , her vocabulary. Unfortunately, I never heard this from any of the teachers. Thank you for the info ... all the best

[@RaisingAtoZ]

@@Jas111ld Thank you for sharing your story. Unfortunately, teachers must often cater to the middle or lower students, leaving the more advanced students often bored and fending for themselves. It's so nice to hear that your daughter is now able to follow her own interests and passions without the peer pressure. Thanks for watching and all the best as you begin this exciting new journey!

[@vickiwicki2527]

More importantly, why are you doing the video while driving

[@rrichards1210]

Great explanation. From an ex-teacher now homeschooling, I totally agree with all your reasons. I will add that another reason we decided to homeschool is that our daughter was reading very well before 5 and I knew from past experience the school wouldn't cater for her individually and she would get bored very quickly. (She had finished graded readers that are used in our schools, in the middle of her first year, reading at a 12 yo level.)

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thank you, R Richards! 😀 Exactly! Teachers need to spend a lot of extra energy and time on the students who are struggling and to make sure no one falls through the cracks. Too often, a lot of the gifted or above average kids are left to fend for themselves and will sometimes get bored or develop a negative relationship with learning because of this. Thanks for your comment and for joining us!

[@leannecarter2207]

Covid Has Been a Super Blessing. We loved Homeschooling. Attended Montessori private for years, did last year in public... we have made big changes and decided this is going to be the best school year ever.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

"Best school year ever."... I love it! We are hearing a lot of people say how the discovery of homeschooling during COVID has been a blessing in disguise.

[@supportsquadteaching]

❤ I’m a teacher and I have started to homeschool my kids. I think once you “know how the sausage is made,” it incentivizes you to choose another option. For us, one of my sons is neurodivergent and he can learn but not well in a traditional classroom setting (we have tried private, public, even moved hours away to try a “better” school system). I love homeschooling and think it is worth the sacrifice 🎉

[@RaisingAtoZ]

I think its so interesting when we teachers start homeschooling...like if the people inside the system are leaving, maybe we need to fix the system. I'm so glad homeschooling has been a blessing to your family. It's the best decision we've ever made!

[@The_family_chan]

Just started following your channel! I plan to start our homeschool this coming September for my little one going into grade 1. I want to homeschool for many reasons, but the initial factor was when I was told that my child was well above her JK class ngrade 2 level for reading and writing), but the school board no longer allowed students to skip grades. So basically she would be held back, at least until she slowed down in her learning for the rest of the class to catch up!

[@RaisingAtoZ]

There is a lot of focus on the kids who are on the other side of that curve and helping them get up to where they should be. When teachers talk about not wanting kids to "fall through the cracks", it is usually in regards to those lower kids. But, the thing is, above average or gifted kids can fall through the cracks, too! You don't often hear about that, but it happens all the time. All the best with your homeschooling!

[@Mustang-mike302]

Love it! Real world skills learning is non-existent in public schools . I would love to home school our daughter .

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thanks, Mike! Yes! Real-world learning is the foundation of our homeschooling. Thanks for watching our video!

[@just.a.therian.g]

Interesting. I wondered why teachers are homeschooling. I started with my thirteen year old and he has become a much happier person because of it. I feel school sucked out his creativity. I pulled him out of school cause of bullying which is now happening to other kids now he has left. I’m in Tasmania. Thanks guys a great insight. Emma

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Hi, Emma. We're glad you found us and got something from our video. Unfortunately, bullying seems to be a common reason many are choosing to homeschool. It's a sad reality for many people. We are lucky that was not our "why", but even for those whom homeschooling was not really a choice, they can see that there are some real and great benefits.

[@just.a.therian.g]

@@RaisingAtoZ yes there's many benefits my youngest wishes she was home with me still scares me that I'm home schooling. Though I can't keep up with her she's a tornado.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

@@just.a.therian.g How old is your youngest?

[@just.a.therian.g]

@@RaisingAtoZ she is 5 a very hyperactive 5 though. Very extrovert.

[@snowps1]

I just pulled my middle schoolers because of bullying. We're trying cyber school first before homeschooling but my bullied son is thrilled to be at home.

[@CCgirl2083]

I wanted to, was told that I couldn't. Guess who's homeschooling now in 2020. My daughter loves doing different things and not having to sit still all the time. Glad to have found you guys.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Sitting at a desk is so overrated! 😄We're glad you found us!

[@ajrwilde14]

you seem to have a really balanced approach, looking forward to watching more of your videos

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thank you! We're glad you found us. We put out a new video every Monday.

[@FaridaBaxamusa]

I am a part-time high school teacher and a community college professor in San Francisco and I have always wanted to homeschool my kids. I have 2 daughters, a 5-year-old and 2.5 years old who are being homeschooled. We love it! Also, completely resonate with you when I meet my high schoolers who are homeschooled. You can easily tell them apart. Sending love and more power to you guys:)

[@RaisingAtoZ]

That's awesome! Homeschoolers make great students later on in life since they are always learning.

[@yessicalopez8604]

We choose to homeschool our kids because our son is in grade 3 and he is reading and writing at a grade 5 level. He is very advanced in his science knowledge. We will make sure he gets involved in sports and other activities to increase the social interaction.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Kids who are advanced often fall through the cracks. Everyone is worried about the kids who are behind, no one worries about the boredom or the extra responsibilities that get heaped on to kids who are advanced. And there are so many ways to socialize now in days, it does make it a little easier.

[@notefullliving8760]

Fellow Canadian here in B.C. been deeply thinking about switching. We have our kids in a GOOD private school. The cost is stretching us. We have to decide THIS week what we are doing and want to include our kids in the conversation. My oldest is in grade 3 and loved homeschooling when we where forced into it in March. It’s been on my heart since he was in kindergarten. However it’s a decision we have to ALL agree on.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

That is so good that you are making the decision as a family. It is something that affects everyone in the family. If you ever have any questions don't hesitate to ask, and let us know how it goes! 😊

[@musikluver28]

My son is 2 and I’m expecting baby#2. I never thought I’d want my child to be homeschooled, but I’ve been considering it lately. I love the idea of individualized learning. And having met homeschoolers, their ambition to learn is so much stronger, they have great work ethic, they get to learn without restrictions. I’ll be continuing to pray about it, and I loved all your reasons as to why you chose to homeschool! We’ll probably be in touch soon. ☺️

[@RaisingAtoZ]

That's great, Mariah! You know where to find us! 😊Thanks for watching! 💕

[@connecttoself2876]

You guys are awesome.. Thank you for sharing! ❤

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thank you, Brenda! Glad you found us!

[@Joshuarcade]

I've always wanted to homeschool my 2 daughters but I didnt want to offend my (now ex) wife. But now that kids are in my full custody I am now remembering that homeschool is way more appropriate for my girls, especially for my kindergartener who gets drained by the loudness of her classroom (she gets that from me :( ) I'm in BC so I hope the rules for trying to get them out aren't too strict/annoying. We will see, I'll post updates throughout the year. 2020! How are you guys doing?

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thanks for your comment, Josh! We are loving our homeschool journey! It is definitely the best option for our family. The rules are different in BC. But, you might be able to get some financial support. All the best in your homeschooling and we're looking forward to seeing your updates!

[@queeniebee237]

So did you get to homeschool? @Joshua Mancilla

[@threejeans6084]

❤❤❤...this speaks volumes! We have three kids. I worked in healthcare for many years (currently on hiatus, as a homeschooling SAHM). During all three pregnancies we chose to go with midwifery prenatal care. People would always ask me why would I choose that route working while working in my field. My answer would always be, now THAT should tell you ALOT. Fact is, we know MANY educators. We're currently in year three of homeschooling. They've been great resources and continue encourage our homeschool journey. Our children are doing well. Truth is, we all ought to do what works best for our family/homes 🤷🏿‍♀️. Again, thank you for sharing!

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Yes! People aren't listening when teachers are saying things have changed, that they system isn't working. While the public system works for some, it's not going to work for everyone and we need to support those looking for other options.

[@threejeans6084]

@@RaisingAtoZ AGREED, it's definitely not what I experienced growing up! Again, THANK YOU!

[@JenniferJane78]

I agree with many of these things, but testing is important outside of the classroom. Every day in a career is a test on knowledge. The machinist who built the car is taking a test on their knowledge with each vehicle they build. Each mechanic who repairs the car is tested each day on their knowledge. The one who harvests the rocks and sand, crush the rocks, makes the asphalt, puts the sand, rocks and asphalt down to make the road is tested for every inch of the road they built. The ones who paint the lines on the road are tested every day. The ones who work on the water, sewer and electrical lines below the road, are also tested every day. The people who test the drivers every day to make sure they know the rules of the road and safe operation of a motor vehicle are tested with each student who takes the road tests. The drivers of the vehicles are tested every time they get behind the wheel. Those who fail while driving requiring hospitalization, all of the medical staff are tested with each patient they have. Testing is a great thing, but need to get knowledge imprinted on the brain so don't need to go over proper operation of things before each work day.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Practical tests and standardized school testing at two different things. Studies have shown that standardized testing means little in the real world, requires lots of teaching to the test, are incredibly prejudice to those in lower socio-economical classes and minorities. All while the administration of these tests cost millions of dollars and take hours to administer to student (time away from learning). And those tests rarely are allowed to be used for grading. Testing that someone can drive is about ensuring safety on the road and is a completely valid, practical test. Tests have their place. But standardized testing doesn't.

[@melissacheri57]

I think you both are right about life skills. When I was in high school they taught home economics in school. They taught you how to cook and sew. They now have gotten rid of that in school. It is a shame they did. My daughter age 12 learned how to cook her own soup and is so proud of herself. I decided to homeschool because my daughter had anxiety. With my youngest I was not planning on homeschooling her. When the pandemic occurred I changed my mind. Too much was going on like they wanted them to do hybrid programs and masks. I started my 5th graders journey at home and I like it so much better

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Learning life skills is vital and it's sad that it's not taught in schools any more. And a lot of people started homeschooling with the pandemic and many chose to not go back. Welcome to the club.

[@DestinyDiamond]

I benefited from learning how to take standardized test. It got me a higher score on my SATs, into college, and when I was in college, because I was a great test taker, I usually did minimal studying, rarely ever went to class, was self taught and did well in school because I was just a great test taker. Even to apply for state, military and government jobs they often give you a placement test that has The standardized test format.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Americans love their standardized tests. Canadians don't have nearly as many outside of school. And while learning to take a test is a great skill, most standardized tests you need to be taught how to take each one individually. SATs are very different from ACTs or OSSLTs. Learning to take one specific test isn't really a skill that crosses boarders.

[@WhimsicalFamilyLife]

Powerful message, thank you for sharing! Who is the Canadian Composer you mentioned?

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thank you! Stéphane was talking about R. Murray Shafer.

[@RaquelSilva-dd3to]

Hi! Just came across your video and channel and loved your explanation. Me and my husband would love to home school as well for pretty much same reasons, being the biggest one fostering the love for learning and taking advantage of the interests our kid might have at the moment. We haven’t got to that yet since our kid is 2yo but I’m struggling with the fact that we are already raising him trilingual (my native language is Portuguese so I speak P with him and my husband speaks Spanish and since we are in the US everyone else speaks English with him). Have you ever came across people homeschooling bilingual/trilingual kids?

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Hi, Raquel. I am so sorry for the late reply! Obviously, I'm still learning where to find new KZbin comments... 🤦‍♂️Bilingualism is very popular in Canada with our two official languages being English and French. And yes, I've heard of several kids learning more than two languages. Little kids under 5 will soak up language very easily and learning more than 2 shouldn't be a problem! That is great that you're both giving him that gift and sharing your heritage and language with him. Let us know how it's going, and we'll be sure to reply sooner next time! 😁

[@TheTaits08]

I am so glad I have found your video. I share all the same views as you do about homeschooling. My kids are currently in the public school system in Ontario in grades 3 and 1. I think educators are doing all they can to keep the system run well and manage larger class sizes but it doesn't work for every student. My kids love to learn and are very intelligent but due to class size they are also not getting some of the resources they need. My son for instance needs a little more assistance and less distraction which is a huge problem in his classroom. My husband and I are doing our research about homeschooling and the kids love the idea since we have always done a mix of homeschool/public school learning. If you can offer any advice for me, I would love to connect.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Hey! We're glad you found us! With the variety of learners we have today, classes over 20-25 just don't work for everyone. That's great that the whole family is on-board. For many people, that is a huge barrier to even get started with homeschooling. We are happy to help you with any questions you have. You can connect with us here or on social media (Facebook and Instagram).

[@andrealucy91]

My kids are the same age, also in Ontario. I pulled them out of public school in early October to give homeschooling a try. They're both super bright kids that just weren't shining at school. I always wanted to homeschool but it didn't seem realistic until the issues started piling up so fast at school and I couldn't ignore the voice telling me that no matter how unprepared and unqualified I might be, they'd be getting 100x the personal attention at home and that's what they really needed. So here we are, going into our fifth month and I couldn't be happier with how things are going. It was a lot of trial and error at first, partly because of the pressure I put on myself to get everything right. I can't even put into words how much better they're doing now. They see themselves as having so much more control over their own lives and that has been so motivating for them. They've drastically improved not only in their schoolwork but their life skills and overall well-being as well. The only negative is that I really don't think they'll be happy to go back to public school if circumstances change and I need to work!

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Amazing! 🙌 The flexibility, ownership of themselves and their day, and the personal attention make all the difference. That’s so great that you’ve found your groove, and I hope you are able to continue making homeschool work for your family!

[@HeatherAnne10]

Also a teacher, now ex teacher I guess, choosing to homeschool my daughter next year! I agree with many of your reasons, and also have a few more of my own. Do you think you will go back to school teaching when you are finished homeschooling? I myself am VERY torn on if I will ever go back. 🤔🤷‍♀️

[@RaisingAtoZ]

I'm not sure. I might consider subbing, but I don't think I'd ever go back full-time.

[@brokenotbroken25]

Just found your channel. I find myself so struggling with the board e learn in Ontario. Running 2 devises running from room to room I have a grade 6er with aspburgers and a kinder and a 3 month old. The struggle is real 20 min blocks 1 hour gaps... screaming kids (your in my learning space) e learning not ideal if you have more then 1 kid.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

We hear you. It is not ideal at all. We see a lot of distance learners who are having a difficult time right now. Have you found a community to find some support with? Often that make a big difference. You can share ideas and make little adjustments that could add up to have a big impact.

[@brokenotbroken25]

@@RaisingAtoZ um no there is no community support. At this point my kinder is on a screen for the times the board has desided he does all the work that they have picked. Then to make sure hes getting it we do 1 hour everynight of what he calls mom school (he has blown through since sept 3 full size all in one kindergarden curriculum books cover to cover.) My oldest who is in grade 6 is working through grade 7 and 8 curriculum at that time on his own. He also has a book of the week of his choice. Last week it was Animal Farm. Both the boys have taught themselves chess in this past week so that's what we use as a stem in the evenings or movie of choice. We have rules no homeschool after 6 no homework no e learning after 6. That is my time to take a break set up all the e stuff for the next days lesson for e learn (find supplies for that days stem) and take liberties on how I'm teaching that to him . Sorry for super long message. In the community we live in few kids are doing e learn as its rural and most parents that I have spoken to or have been at my house during a part of my kids day are like um how many minutes are your kids on the tec I have timed it average of 15mins per block spread over 6 hours. So 90 mins Total

[@josipape742]

Hey guys, are you in Ontario? Love your videos.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Yes we are! Thank you so much for watching!

[@gregorbegger9291]

I think former school teachers should teach small classes at a library

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Many do! My in-laws teach art lessons in the community.

[@SaadiaZahoor]

thnx

[@thesantosfamily3990]

Great video 😁

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Thanks 😁

[@cassandraashby4339]

I am currently in university to become a teacher ( I have 1 year left!), and would love to homeschool my future kids. My concern is having a 1 income household (placing the financial burden on my husband alone), and not contributing to my own future retirement fund. How do you guys make this situation work in a modern day world? I also live in northern Ontario (Sudbury)!

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Great question. We both contribute to our household, although Ste brings in the money, being home saves us a lot of money. With a good budget, setting money aside each month for things (like retirement), budgeting for expenses and fun, and not having any day care cost, we actually do just fine. We were a team and we make it work. There are also lots of ways to save money homeschooling, to keep those costs down.

[@snowps1]

Got any advice for us non-teachers? I feel like I'm going to mess up my kids education.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

You don't need to be a teacher to teach your kids. Start with reading. Read to your kids... a lot.

[@aplam94]

When I have kids I’m planning on homeschooling them. Main reason is I have learning disabilities and there’s a high chance that my kids will have learning disabilities. I was bullied in public school because of my learning disability and I don’t want my kids to be bullied also. Btw do you guy live in Canada? Where do you live? I live in Edmonton Alberta

[@RaisingAtoZ]

I'm sorry you experienced that bullying. Just remember that people with learning disabilities just learn differently. We shouldn't even call it a "disability". These people are usually average to above average intelligence. 📚💕

[@belindagarza3958]

In school the teachers kids always did better than everyone else. As I got older I realized it's because their parents taught them at home. Then I realized that the kids in the top of our classes were receiving some kind of instruction outside of school.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

It's shocking to many how much extra support the top students are getting outside of the classroom. My BFF is a tutor and almost all her students are at the top of their classes.

[@maryannv1654]

I'm in Ontario and have homeschooled my two children for 5 years now. What is your plan for high school? I thought we would be fine and most colleges want homeschoolers and we do more then needed.. but have heard lately that they still need accredited courses from high school to enter. I don't know if our children will attend college but want to be prepared. Thank you.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Colleges and Universities all have their own requirements. Some only require a portfolio, while others require classes. It's best to decide on what type of program they are interested in, what school and to work your way backwards. And also remember that many schools take Mature Students at 19 or 20, with significantly fewer requirements than kids fresh out of high school.

[@pinkorganichorse]

In public school, space is taught in 2nd grade

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Depends on where you live. Here in Ontario, it's a 6th grade topic. I taught it back in my teachings days.

[@belladonna1658]

Thanks for video but are you driving and doing this video couldn’t you have done it in the safety of your home?

[@tisherbug27]

Our son has autism and the district refuses to budge on any of our requests. I feel bad for his teachers, but he needs a smaller class size. I believe in inclusion, but it has to be smart inclusion. Last week was the last straw. We withdrew and are now on day 3 of homeschooling.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

Raising children with neurodiversity is always a challenge. Add in schools with limited people, budgets and resources, it makes inclusion so difficult. Homeschooling can be a great option. Just make sure you can find some respite, to take care of yourself.

[@Brushedbymorgan]

The most educated people homeschool

[@RaisingAtoZ]

yep! That should says something....

[@IAmHisBeloved5]

Since y’all are both certified teachers, would y’all be able to homeschool other people kids?

[@RaisingAtoZ]

We have our hands full with just our own! :) But, our channel and website are all about empowering parents who want to homeschool their kids and to share the message that you don't need to be a teacher to teach your own kids. We try to share lots of tips & tricks about homeschooling. And, if you ever have any questions, feel free to connect with us here, or on Facebook or Twitter @raisingatoz

[@IAmHisBeloved5]

Raising A to Z i understand that. I’m just wondering if y’all are legally allowed to homeschool other people’s kids since y’all are certified teachers? I’m not necessarily asking y’all are y’all going to.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

​@@IAmHisBeloved5 You can hire a tutor for any child and they don't have to be a certified teacher. But to teaching in a public school board, you do need a certification. Depending on your region that might change but here in Ontario that's how it works

[@IAmHisBeloved5]

Raising A to Z I wasn’t asking about tutoring but it’s okay. I don’t think you’re understanding what I’m actually asking but thank you anyways.

[@RaisingAtoZ]

@@IAmHisBeloved5 Sorry, we're not understanding. If you have someone else teaching your kids full-time, technically that is not homeschooling. If you are homeschooling your kids and have different people helping you out; like grandparents, coaches, tutors, etc, that is very normal for homeschooling. Anyone can teach other people's kids, but that would be more like tutoring and you don't need to be a teacher for that. Mind you, this is not legal advice and every province or state has its own rules.