Jake is in a homeschool co-op. He was chosen to lead one side of a debate, regarding the pros and cons of the electoral college. He was chosen to argue for the "cons."
He was so well prepared. I was so proud of him. His team won, 3.5 to 1. These sorts of things--reasoning, arguing, support positions--are his gift! As a "phlegmatic" temperament, he is excellent at researching things, and has the patience to read and read until he's got the info. Then with a streak of showmanship and ambition, he can present with passion. I pray that he finds the right vocation, that can use these gifts for God's truth!
Sometimes I wonder if homeschooling is hurting our kids. I wonder if we are lagging behind. Recently, more of his friends have been admitted to an excellent private school in the area. Sometimes I wonder if we are holding him back! We did not even apply.
But what I see is that in his current environment, he is excelling.
Yesterday he and I discussed next year's schooling. I told him we need to emphasize spelling and grammar. An hour later, that idea apparently having churned in his head, he came up with this idea: "Mom, how about I go through one letter of the dictionary per month, and just memorize the whole thing! It will take 2 years, but let's do it!"
Tears almost came to my eyes. I would pay a thousand dollars (if I had it!) for a child to volunteer for a job like that! How did he get to be that way?
Our homeschool is not impressive, compared to well-established schools. But the school is only as good, in truth, as the kind of student it puts out. So, our humble school will press on!
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