We decided before we had children that we were going to homeschool. We talked about it and it just seemed like the right thing for us to do. We knew that one of us was going to stay home so logically, we homeschool.
Before we actually had kids it was just something that was on the back burner, but now that our kids are becoming school age, we have really been paying attention to the school system.
This is in no way trying to suggest that public schools are bad. There are teachers out there that truly care and want to the best they can every single day for your child; however, at the end of the day - no one will love, protect and truly want the best for your child like you do.
This is why we chose to homeschool. This was before all the school shootings and politics that have happened to the school system.
I would say that our main/top reason to homeschool was to protect our children. We want them to be kids for as long as they can, they have the rest of their lives to be adults.
But, this isn't the only reason parents choose to homeschool. Here are some reason's other parents are choosing this path:
Learning environment for their children is rated number one by National Center for Education Statistics in a 2016 study. Information provided via Coalition for Responsible Home Education.
Please note that this is one of the 'Parents' most important reason for homeschooling', but not the only reasons. In that same study school environment was 80% of the reason, while a desire to provide moral instruction is at 67%.
Some parents homeschool to save money. They know they do not want their children in public school, but cannot afford private school. Homeschooling is a great alternative, if you want to keep a closer eye on your children's education.
Core principles and morals, for us we don't want someone else teaching our children what our family values are or should be. We are a Christian family, and if, heaven forbid, someone wanted to pressure our kids into something they aren't ready for - be it a teacher or peers.
Slowing down peer pressure and developing better social skills with children of different ages and helping them over come and appreciate their differences. This slows down peers pressuring children into things, but when parents can help facilitate these social skills - kids can grow up learning how to make friends of all ages while still playing fairly.
There are a ton of reasons parents choose to homeschool, some personal others choose to just because they can. Whatever your reason, make sure you know what they are - this will help you stay on track when you might get discouraged.
Good luck parents - it won't always be easy, but it will always be an adventure.
