Homeschooling is a relatively common practice in Ontario, Canada, and the government has given parents complete freedom to follow an educational program of their choice. However, there is an approved age to homeschool in Canada. In addition, accountability measures are very minimal, and home educators are considered autonomous educators and are not held accountable for inadequate instruction. This makes homeschooling a relatively affordable option for families and a family affair.
Home-based education is provided to a pupil between the ages of 6 and 18
In Canada, home-based education is the provision of home-based instruction to a pupil between the ages of six and 18 years. It is generally not compulsory and the pupil is considered to be in the home for at least half of the school day. Home-based education involves the child making his or her own educational plans and implementing them. It is a growing trend in the country, and the government supports the concept.
Public education is free for Canadian citizens and permanent residents between the ages of six and 18. Although the age of compulsory attendance varies by jurisdiction, in general, it is six or seven years. In jurisdictions that have pre-elementary schools, the age is lower. In most cases, the minimum age for leaving school is sixteen.
It is cheaper than a private school
Generally speaking, homeschooling is cheaper than private schools, but there are some disadvantages, too. The first is that your child will have more opportunities to interact with peers. Children in public schools will also be exposed to other children who may not share their beliefs or be as supportive of theirs. Additionally, they won’t have as much freedom to choose what they do for fun or for academics. Furthermore, public schools don’t always have a Christian focus, which can be detrimental to a child’s education.
The cost of private schooling is high. On average, the cost of K-12 is $12,350 per year, and for high school, that figure rises to $16,040 per year. While you’ll be able to save on these costs by homeschooling, you should consider that the costs will increase over time.
It is a family affair
In Canada, homeschooling has always been legal, but the laws can vary by province. Regardless, the rights of parents to homeschool their children are respected. However, back in the early 1980s, homeschooling was not widely understood, and school authorities tried to intimidate homeschooling parents. As a result, groups formed to defend parental rights. This movement led to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Many families homeschool for a variety of reasons. One common reason is the desire to provide better education for their children. A 2003 study involving 1,600 families found statistically significant differences in test scores between homeschooled and traditionally-schooled children. Another study published in 2011 found that homeschooling style was significantly related to test performance.
It is not for everyone
If you are considering homeschooling, there are a few things to consider before diving in headfirst. First of all, homeschooling involves a change of lifestyle for your entire family. You will likely have to give up a lot of your time and will have to be very careful with your money. In addition, you’ll have to schedule your doctor’s appointments, errands, and daily chores around your homeschooling schedule.
Another concern for many parents is peer pressure. Although it is possible to avoid peer pressure in a homeschooling environment, some children may not be ready for it. They may complain of having stomach cramps or not feeling well. In these situations, homeschooling may be the best option. Many reluctant students can transform into enthusiastic learners if they’re taught at home by their parents.