Alicia64 Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Hi Everyone, I'm trying to help my parents "get" that home schooling is a valid choice. I know they respect Dr. Laura. Do you happen to know of a link that I could refer them to with her thoughts on home schooling? Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture? Thanks, Alicia Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Annie Laurie Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 I don't know much about Dr.Laura but you got me curious and I found this: http://www.drlaurablog.com/2008/05/22/home-schooling-does-not-hamper-socialization/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NicksMama-Zack's Mama Too Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Hi Everyone, I'm trying to help my parents "get" that home schooling is a valid choice. I know they respect Dr. Laura. Do you happen to know of a link that I could refer them to with her thoughts on home schooling? Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture? Thanks, Alicia I didn't offer up anyone's opinion of home schooling as some sort of stamp of approval. I just held up my right as the parent of the child. I find that the more you seek approval from other people for your choice, the more they think they have a say. My family understands that while I don't mind them sharing their opinion on my child-rearing, I don't put their opinion over my own. I'm opinionated. It works for me. :tongue_smilie: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cricket Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 A quick google search brought up this link to her blog: http://www.drlaurablog.com/2008/05/22/home-schooling-does-not-hamper-socialization/ I haven't found anything that will convince people who just don't like homeschooling. My mil hasn't been won over in the last 5 years. In fact, she seems more and more against it every year. Oh well. Now, on the other hand, if they have specific objections, those can be debated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cheryl in NM Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Hi Everyone, I'm trying to help my parents "get" that home schooling is a valid choice. I know they respect Dr. Laura. Do you happen to know of a link that I could refer them to with her thoughts on home schooling? Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture? Thanks, Alicia Dr. Laura just recommended homeschooling to a caller on her show today. She said kids that zone out because they are bored in school are perfect candidates for homeschooling. When the mother, who is a teacher, asked her about socialization Dr. Laura laughed and said something to the effect of "well you put him in groups and classes and such. No big deal." I never had any real vocal nay-sayers. I know that persons in my family don't agree but they aren't vocal. I just let ds be the example. These family members have never tried to quiz him or put down homeschooling in front of him. I've been very lucky. By now, most of them see that he's a normal well-adjusted kids who's not having sex, addicted to drugs or in a gang. They are okay with the choice now. I do know that adamantly insisting that homeschooling is good and it's what you have chosed will not get you very far. It's akin to being a teenager and stomping your foot and slamming your door. It takes quiet perseversance and focusing on your kids. When it all boils down, who cares what your friends and family think about you homeschooling. You have to do what you feel is best; that's your God-given job. I take that seriously. But, again, I've been lucky. I don't know what I'd do if I were faced with someone in my face telling me it was wrong. Good luck to you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alicia64 Posted February 9, 2009 Author Share Posted February 9, 2009 Thanks Everyone. I fully admit: I'm a total wimp. It's only been the love of my kids that's put me on this path that my family and friends look at me funny for. Well, friends look at me funny. My parents aren't speaking to me. It's not news that my parents are extremely controlling and difficult. Being a bona fide marshmallow, it's hard knowing that very few people in my life see hs as a good decision. I question my decision. Thankfully dh is totally on board. Still, I just can't see my boys going to ps until 3:00 next year. They'll only be six years old. That just seems crazy to me to be in school that long. It's certainly easy to do the popular thing. It's hard to do the right thing that isn't popular. Thanks again, Alicia Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ellie Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Your parents will not get it just because Dr. Laura is in favor of it (and she is). There may come a time when you just look your parents in the eyeball and tell them that you get to decide how your dc will be educated, not they, and that whether you homeschool or not is not up for discussion. I once told my dc that their visits with their grandmother (my mil) might be curtailed if she continued doing things like forcing them to do flashcards and other stuff when they spent the night with her. Happily, we moved to another end of the state and didn't have to actually deal with it.:glare: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LG Gone Wild Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 t. Being a bona fide marshmallow You should put that in your signature because it's catchy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anissarobert Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Alicia :grouphug: Your parents may come around. When I started homeschooling when my oldest was 5, my mom thought I was crazy. Now after 10 years she is behind us all the way. She even wrote an article for the newsletter we publish, advocating homeschooling from a grandparent's point of view. It will take time, but when your parents see how well your kids are doing they may change their minds too. I still have several negative types in my extended family, but they are mostly public school teachers, so they are not looking at the situation objectively. We just don't discuss it much. Good Luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snickerdoodle Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Alicia, I think if you are the kind of person who is very worried about what others think especially your parents, then I would advise you not to homeschool. This way, everyone is happy, except you (but what does that matter, right?) and you don't have to make waves or make anyone else uncomfortable. Otherwise, grow up. You are an adult. Make decisions and own them. Gently, Snickerdoodle Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
abbeyej Posted February 9, 2009 Share Posted February 9, 2009 Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture? Time, and doing a good job. Really... There are some people who are just stubborn and may never come around. In that case, there's nothing you can do. But for many grandparents, it's just a matter of seeing that their grandchildren *are* growing and learning and thriving despite their parents' "unusual" choice. Sometimes when you're talking about *your* parents (the main teacher/caregiver's), they're worried about *you* too. I don't know if that's the case with your parents, but it may be that they're worried about you giving so much of your time, energy, and attention to the children. They worry you'll be worn out and tired, that you won't have time to nourish yourself, that you will give up your own personal dreams... Or they worry their grandchildren will be "odd", that they won't learn or won't have friends, that they will miss out on important childhood opportunities. Assuming that your parents are a reasonable sort of people who can occasionally change their minds in the face of good evidence, then I would just try to give them *time*. If they are only quietly disapproving -- not actively trying to undermine your efforts or turn your children against home schooling -- then just give them time, and provide little windows into how your children are doing. If the kids make something fun -- a great history notebook page, or they learn a new poem, whatever -- encourage the kids to share that with their grandparents. If you have a really wonderful fieldtrip, let the grandparents know. Invite them to extracurricular events (church plays, soccer games, home school talent shows, etc), or if they're far away, make sure they get pictures and telephone reports from the kids... All the normal things you would do anyway ;) -- but make a conscious effort. They just want the best for their daughter and their grandsons, and they need to see how you and they are thriving. I don't think turning them on to Dr Laura's thoughts will hurt either. But I think the real turning point for them will be seeing their grandchildren grow into wonderful, intelligent, enthusiastic, delightful young boys. :) Sometimes grandparents turn around when they see their grandkids learn to read. Or when they discover that they have more flexibility for family visits than the schooled kids. Or when their grandchildren display a deep interest in some unusual topic. Or just when they see them playing and interacting normally with other kids. But give 'em time and patience. And if you need to, demand the same from them. But also assume the best, if you can. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mogster Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 I wrote a letter to my in-laws detailing our decision to homeschool. I also sent them a curriculum list to illustrate how their grandchildren were actually getting better opportunities at home. I also included the various activities that they would be involved in. I topped everything off with this article from the Stanford alumni newsletter (grandpa went to Stanford). What I thought would be met with disgust actually turned out to be very positive. I know the detailed info was crucial to help them understand homeschooling and all its benefits. Good luck! http://www.stanfordalumni.org/news/magazine/2000/novdec/articles/homeschooling.html Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs. Frankweiler Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Hi Alicia, This is our first year homeschooling too, so I can totally relate to what you are saying. They weren't totally against the whole thing, but I'd say "lukewarm" is the best word to describe my parents' attitude. And they still use any excuse to say, "Maybe you should think about putting them back in school." For example: My 4 year old was acting up in the nursery at church. I mistakenly told my mom and she said, "Maybe you should think about putting him in preschool so he can learn how to get along with kids his own age." Ironically, at exactly that moment my private schooled nieces and nephews were running around her house like wild maniacs...and I should have said, "A lot of good that socialization did these kids!" but, as a fellow marshmallow, I didn't have that comeback ready in time and even if I did I would never have said it because that would have "made waves." I'm not used to always having to defend myself, so this has been hard for me. But, I'm learning that other relatives (like my older aunts) are concerned because they don't really understand it. They don't realize that there are tons of curriculum companies ready to sell you every educational tool under the sun, and that lots of other people are doing this. We chose to homeschool mainly because we're military and all the moving and switching schools was hard on the kids. Other people seem to think this is a good "excuse" for me to homeschool, so somehow I get a pass with this and I use it whenever I need it. But, now that we've started homeschooling I think I'd do it even if we didn't move all the time. So, I'd say stick to your guns....and hang in there. If you know it's right for your kids, then it's the right thing to do. (actually that's good advice for both of us!) -Mrs. F Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
keptwoman Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Hi Alicia, This is our first year homeschooling too, so I can totally relate to what you are saying. They weren't totally against the whole thing, but I'd say "lukewarm" is the best word to describe my parents' attitude. And they still use any excuse to say, "Maybe you should think about putting them back in school." For example: My 4 year old was acting up in the nursery at church. I mistakenly told my mom and she said, "Maybe you should think about putting him in preschool so he can learn how to get along with kids his own age." I think it's this aspect that I find hardest. We had people that we have relied on to support us, and that we have previously been able to turn to when we are concerned about something. Now you can't talk to them, as they will always turn it around. I made a similar mistake... I showed my DDs kinder (preschool) report to my uncle and aunt. It was fairly glowing and talked about how outgoing she was and what a leader...."well perhaps you should put her in school for the socialisation aspect" Which amused me greatly as the week before I'd got a lecture about not making the most of educational opportunities that we could have done on a homeschool family camp the week before. I'd explained it was for the kids to spend time together: SOCIALISATION!!!! But apparantly learning is on a worksheet and socialisation is in daily chunks of 1/2 hours in the playground. :banghead: I'm slowly learning just to say nothing, but it still makes me sad that I have to do that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trivium Academy Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture? It's hard b/c as your parents' child- you still want their approval and blessing but you are doing something RADICAL in their eyes. If you cannot have an open, honest conversation with them, where you can easily discuss their issues, I would leave it alone and cling to your dh for support. I was able to talk to my parents and although they weren't 100% on board and voiced their concerns, they listened to me and we were able to get it out on the table. It hasn't been mentioned again. If we visit for a week, I bring our homeschooling stuff and my mom has even sits with dd8 to work on things. I mention the cool stuff we're doing such as nature walks, science experiments, art and history- sometimes even Latin or French but it isn't a see homeschooling is the best thing, it's sharing our lives with our family. When I talked to my parents, I told them about times when I was in public school when I had difficulties. I explained that as a parent, I don't wish the same for my kids. I touched on s£x education, peer pressure, drugs & alcohol, and even provided them examples of when I got in trouble and what my influences were. Eye-opener for them at some of my confessions:eek: but the conversation ended with their apologies to me and mine to them. BUT I have that type of relationship with them, they want ME to live MY life and understand that I'm the one raising my kids- not them. They had their turn...now it's mine. There is a respectful boundary there, something that you may have to establish. Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and what's his name is a fabulous book, it will really help you with your marshmallow status. That was cute, btw! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Happy Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Being a bona fide marshmallow, Mmmmmm, I love marshmellows, especially all toasty and warm from a campfire. Let me leave you with this image of YOU. You are a marshmellow, one that's **on fire** about homeschooling...but never burns out. ;) Breathe a little fire from time to time when affirming to your parents your decision to homeschool. Nothing rude, but with just a hint of dragon's breath. :lol: One of my favorite educational quotes is...education is not the filling of a bucket, but the igniting of a fire. Keep these things in your mind when you are talking to your parents. You'll come across as confident. The little smile playing around your lips will confuse everyone. If that doesn't work...shout out for some of RemudaMom's rum to dab behind your ears. I've used it during some difficult confrontations. It works everytime. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dcjlkplus3 Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 We haven't had to deal with this yet, but I think my response would be to have them read The Well Trained Mind as my husband and I have adopted that as our philospohy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Garga Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 (edited) Your parents aren't speaking to you over this? How sad. The proof is in the puddin'. Like the other posts have said, it will take time for them to see the results of your homeschooling. As an aside, you probably know this (though you still love them dearly) but your parents are being manipulative by not speaking to you: trying to punish you into doing what they want. You don't want to give in to such immature tactics, or it will encourage them. Keep quietly doing what you feel is best for your girls. There is a ton of info in the library and on the computer about homeschooling. If it comes up again, you can always direct them to look up information if they have questions, as the authors of those types of books already have the eloquent answers to their questions. If possible, don't respond to their questions. Just refer them to look up the stuff on their own. I've found that when someone takes the time to look it up on their own they're more convinced than when hearing from me. (Guess I'm not a very persuasive speaker.) Edited February 10, 2009 by Garga Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Parrothead Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Thanks Everyone. I fully admit: I'm a total wimp. It's only been the love of my kids that's put me on this path that my family and friends look at me funny for. Well, friends look at me funny. My parents aren't speaking to me. It's not news that my parents are extremely controlling and difficult. Being a bona fide marshmallow, it's hard knowing that very few people in my life see hs as a good decision. I question my decision. Thankfully dh is totally on board. Still, I just can't see my boys going to ps until 3:00 next year. They'll only be six years old. That just seems crazy to me to be in school that long. It's certainly easy to do the popular thing. It's hard to do the right thing that isn't popular. Thanks again, Alicia It might be time to get new friends. The same can't be said of your parents, but if they have initiated a "no speaking to Alicia until she stops this homeschoooling nonsense" it will be there loss of contact with their grandsons. If you can handle it the subtle pressure, let them make the next move. Otherwise you will "let them win." One thing to think about is how your dh supports your family homeschooling. It may be time for him to step in and assert himself as head of the family and the family's decision. You are in a fairly large city. Look for homeschooling support groups or co-ops in your area. The ladies you meet there will NOT look at you funny for homeschooling. They should give you lots of encouragement and advice. Hang around here. I know we are only virtual people, but we are here for any type of support you need. Homeschooling is growing by leaps and bounds. It isn't even considered radical any more. So your "right thing" is becoming very popular. I don't remember what the latest numbers of growth are but they are getting up there. You aren't alone. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gratefulmother Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Alicia, I have so much sympathy for where you are, because I have been there myself in a lot of ways. Thankfully, not being assertive enough, with my parents especially, finally made me physically sick in the form of severe anxiety attacks. In talking with a therapist I remember saying "Can't we just keep things the way they are and continue to smooth over the times my dad is rude and intrusive and just not ruffle anyone's feathers? It would be so much easier!" I was half-joking, but I will never forget her looking at me and saying "No, you can't, because it is making you physically sick and that is not fair to your husband or your children." That one statement is the kick in the rear end that I needed to start setting the boundaries I needed to with my parents. I was no longer responsible for making them happy by feeling like they always have to be pleased or even understand my choices. Yes, that blessing is wonderful, but it can't come at the expense of where God has me and what he has called me to do. And I need to let them know when they have crossed the line. It doesn't have to be a knock down, drag out conversation (unless they make it that), but you can lovingly and consistently set boundaries to let them know that certain topics are off the table or whatever. It was an adjustment for everyone, but I can tell you that this past Christmas was the happiest of my adult life because of the results of dealing with these issues. I apologize for being so personal, but my heart really went out to you when I read your post. I pray that you will be a happy homeschooling mom! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Liz CA Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Thanks Everyone. I fully admit: I'm a total wimp. It's only been the love of my kids that's put me on this path that my family and friends look at me funny for. Well, friends look at me funny. My parents aren't speaking to me. You have come to the right place. I have found these boards to be extremely helpful. You have a curriculum board and a board for those homeschooling into and through High School - you won't be there for a while but it is so very encouraging to be able to read that there are people, ordinary people who have successfully done this. I never thought I would or could. I saw that you are in the SAC area. Several years ago, there was a WTM group there. I always wanted to hook up with them but I lived (still do) too far away to join them. The combined experience on these boards is invaluable. Make full use of it! My ds has graduated and I am still reading the boards now and then because I recognize the names and want to know what is going on with people. I am so sorry you have little support from your extended family and that your own parents are choosing not to speak to you. Perhaps they will reconsider one day - there is hope. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pamela H in Texas Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 It's not news that my parents are extremely controlling and difficult. Being a bona fide marshmallow Honestly? Your parents act the way they do because it works to control you. Just like a toddler screaming for 5 minutes in the grocery store EVERY week is one that knows mom will finally give in, you have trained your parents (and they have trained you) so that they act like undisciplined toddlers and you give them their way. If you think of it that way, do you have an easier time just doing what you want, feel is best, need? BTW, this is HARD for me also. I am SO good with children. I think it's hilarious when they do something to get their way. I figure they have to try a couple times to make sure I'm still a soft brick wall (immovable). I have a harder time with the rest of society though, including my parents. But I have recently thought of getting a bit more backbone and realizing that controlling people use the same ploys young children do. They just want their way so do whatever it takes to do it. And they will up the anty for a short time if you stand up for yourself. Just like the parent that gets a clue and decides there is NO way that child is getting that $1 toy this week (or next) will have the wrath of that child to contend with for a week or two, you'll have to deal with their fit for a time. But they WILL come around. I have seen some really awfully behaved children come around with the right discipline (and other help for whatever issues they may have). Your parents can come along too. But no more marshmallow. If people behave like children around you, treat them as children and go on with your life :) BTW, my biggest critics learned to shut up and eventually LIKED homeschooling for my kids. I just wish I had realized what I said above earlier so I could have had them behaving better sooner :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Moni Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Anything you did to help your nay sayers get the picture What picture do you want the naysayers to "get"? They are entitled to their opinion. I just give folks permission to be incorrect ;) :seeya: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 Hi, I just wanted to add that in my experience, sometimes people who do not homeschool their kids feel a subtle judgement from those of us who do. They feel their choice to not homeschool is being put down. Isn't that funny? So they put down homeschooling! It can come across in behaviors like saying "I could never do that!" or "What about socialization?"--I usually hear "Am I doing what's best for my child by sending them to (gov't) school?" Sometimes the reality of homeschooling as a choice has simply never occurred to them, and in their ignorance, they cannot fathom the idea. It's hard when everyone is saying what is "best" for kids. Perhaps your parents are worried and fearful inside, and lack confidence in your choice because they just can't wrap their brains around how it all works--and they may feel judged for not choosing to homeschool you. Perhaps they are just ugly people, I don't know. Anyway, you are not responsible for convincing them, but I totally get how you wish they'd come around and validate your choice without feeling like your choosing another path means that the path they chose is somehow less than ideal or even wrong. I'm sorry they are acting so mean. Use this forum, as many have suggested, and go get yourself some nice homeschooling friends, Dear. If you are a woman of prayer, lift up your parents, honor them for the fact that they gave you life, even if they aren't honorable in any other way, and concentrate on those kiddos. Take heart, and know you are not alone. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie_0801 Posted February 10, 2009 Share Posted February 10, 2009 I fully admit: I'm a total wimp. It's only been the love of my kids that's put me on this path that my family and friends look at me funny for. Well, friends look at me funny. My parents aren't speaking to me.It's not news that my parents are extremely controlling and difficult. If they are that controlling, perhaps you should consider that the silent treatment is a blessing in disguise! It sounds like now is the time to work on developing your "inner orc" as my dh calls it. His parents are a bit like this too. As Moni said, your parents have the right to hold incorrect opinions :D Rosie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lighthouseacademy Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 (edited) My inlaws were ADAMANTLY opposed to us homeschooling our kids. We ignored them and continued with business as usual. As they have seen the progress my kids have been making BOTH academically and socially, they have warmed to the idea and are now fine with us homeschooling... I wouldn't call them supportive, but fine. You will never win with proofs by professionals. You can only win by example. As for them not talking to you, that is simply childish on their part. Let them grow up and have an adult conversation. You are a parent now and you need to do what is best for YOUR children. You can't be a marshmallow and let them walk on you or they become your children's parents! My dh had to learn the true rolls with his parents after we had kids, and it was painful, but doable. You can't live your life trying to please them- you won't succeed if they are that controlling. They need to learn that you are now a grown adult and their time for raising you is over. They get to enjoy the grandkids now and let you parent them... Edited February 11, 2009 by lighthouseacademy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alicia64 Posted February 11, 2009 Author Share Posted February 11, 2009 Thank you all for your support -- I think I'm going to hold onto this thread and read it when I get all squishy. I absolutely love home schooling and the more I read the more I know this is a fabulous option for educating. I wish I had the time to respond to all these posts individually. In a nutshell, my parents are creeps (therapists call it Narcissistic Personality Disorder) -- this isn't by far the first time they've done this sort of thing. Re: friends. Yes, that's hard too. One of my closest friends pulled her five year old out of a "great" school and put him in a Waldorf. So, I thought of everyone, she'd be supportive. But no, I can see it in her eyes that she just doesn't get it. (In fairness to her, her son is very difficult and she would have an uphill climb educating him at home.) I like to think that if you were to meet me, you wouldn't guess that I'm a marshmallow. I'm fairly successful in disguising it. Chris in VA ~ I just said the same thing to my dh last night!! I couldn't agree with you more. It really appears that people respond to my saying I home school with their own guilt, confusion, fear -- and then, not being able to deal with all those feelings, throw them back at the home schooler. Thank you all again. I'll be back, I'm sure! Alicia Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FO4UR Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 Alicia -Good for you for doing what's right in the face of opposition! Grow some tough skin (read the boundaries book;)) and do NOT let your parents own another minute of your life! My own mom responds to HSing (and BFing...and SAHMing.....) with the same guilt/envy that others have described, although she is VERY good about maintaining healthy boundaries. As we talk and she sees that I'm not accusing her of something by raising my dc differently she lightens up (and has even checked our HSing wishlist for gift ideas). Your friend my may lighten up over schooling with time. I'm sure she is anxious over her own ds, and her feelings may get mixed all together over hearing how wonderful HSing is.....knowing her relationship with her ds is tough....kwim.:confused: This board is a great place to *meet* with fellow HSers! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mom-ninja. Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 Alicia,I think if you are the kind of person who is very worried about what others think especially your parents, then I would advise you not to homeschool. This way, everyone is happy, except you (but what does that matter, right?) and you don't have to make waves or make anyone else uncomfortable. Otherwise, grow up. You are an adult. Make decisions and own them. Gently, Snickerdoodle I like you Snickerdoodle. There aren't many who appreciate "tough love." :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snickerdoodle Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 Oh dear, that was a bit sassy of me. Seriously, though, I think if the OP thinks of herself as a marshmallow then she needs to go into HS with her eyes wide open. I mean, imagine that she tries to HS for a couple of years and then later decides to put the kids in school. I can hear it from her parents now, "I told you so. You can't do anything right." Or what about when the kids act up (or just act like kids) I can hear it now, "Well, they'd be better behaved if only they went to school." Or what about when the OP is having a bad day (let's be real here, HS isn't all sunshine and roses :tongue_smilie:) I can hear it now, "Well, we knew you couldn't handle it." OR "You wouldn't have these problems if they were in school." So I think the OP needs to evaluate whether she's got the grit to keep on trucking even when she is likely to have ZERO support in the long term from her family and potentially her friends. It's the day in and day out of negativity that can wear you down. Listen OP, once you decide to do something, stick to your guns. Find support where you can and let your parents take responsibility for working out their own issues with your autonomy. I agree with the poster that said something to this effect: "treat them as if they were toddlers having a tantrum." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snickerdoodle Posted February 11, 2009 Share Posted February 11, 2009 'Course you could always just open a can of whoop a$$. ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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