Adopting older children means lots of changes all at once—they get a new home, a new family, maybe even a new country! With all those transitions, should you start homeschooling them, too? Today on Home School Heartbeat, guest Mary Ostyn gives her family’s perspective on this question.
Mike Smith:
Mary Ostyn has joined us this week to talk about adoption and her family’s experience. Mary, some of your children were already school age when you adopted them, and you’ve chosen to homeschool. How has homeschooling played into your children’s adjusting into their new life with your family?
Mary Ostyn:
We’ve been homeschooling since 1994, so it was natural for us to homeschool our adopted kids too. Homeschooling is really great for the newly—adopted older kid. First of all, since they haven’t always been in your family, they’re playing catch-up in the relationship department. They really need time to bond with Mom and Dad, and sometimes due to life circumstances or needing to learn English, they’re also behind in school. Homeschooling gives kids extra time with parents, and parents can really personalize their education and address any gaps.
Now, I’m going to be honest here—homeschooling a child who’s come home at an older age is not easy—it takes patience. I’ve had to be so creative and persistent, teaching our older adopted kids, and God has really been working on my weak areas through that process. But, here’s the awesome thing: we serve a God who’s able to do more than we can ever hope or imagine. He is able even when we are not.
Mike:
Well Mary, it’s great to hear your family’s perspective on homeschooling. This could really be beneficial to our listeners who are considering some of these questions even today. And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
