Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

It's beginning in earnest: the next generation of homeschoolers. This week on Home School Heartbeat, Michael Farris, Chairman and General Counsel of Home School Legal Defense Association, asks homeschoolers of the first generation—now grandparents—to share with us the homeschooling advice they give to their own children. Today, he welcomes Bettie Ethell to the program. Bettie was homeschooled as a child growing up on the mission field, homeschooled her own children, and is now a grandmother.

Michael Farris:
Bettie, as you see your daughters and other homeschooling graduates begin their own families, what are some of the fundamentals that they should have in mind?

Bettie Ethell:
Well, as we enter the second generation of home education, Mike, there are so many new helps available making it easier to homeschool, that, as a result, many parents begin teaching their children without really settling their priorities and goals. I would ask my children what their motivation in home education is. The next question I'd ask my children is, "Are you self-disciplined and is your home in order? Do you keep a regular daily schedule, with regular meal times, etc.?" It is extremely difficult to educate at home without discipline of our time. The third thing I would ask is, "What are your views on roles and family responsibilities?" What does this have to do with home education? Everything. When the home runs smoothly there's more time for one-on-one interaction with children, character development, and teaching academics.

Mike:
Bettie, thanks so much and I'll look forward to talking with you again tomorrow.

Bettie:
Thank you, Mike.

Mike:
I'm Michael Farris.