How to Make Your Homeschoolers Good Citizens

by Andrea Hermitt | More from this Blogger

29 Apr 2008 08:04 AM

Yesterday I addressed the assumption that homeschoolers may turn out to be poor citizens. Realizing that this accusation is just another way to make homeschooling appear inferior, just like the socialization issue, it is still important for homeschoolers to work to invalidate such statements.

Helping your homeschooled children become good citizens is actually quite simple. The most important thing you can do is model good citizenship. Here are some steps you can take.

Teach students history of their country, state, and locality. Also, teach them history according to their heritage. This of course can happen in the course of homeschooling. History should however, not be relegated to a few lessons a week. Ongoing discussions at teachable moments are an absolute must.

Involve students in the democratic process by closely following politics in the news, and in meeting politicians in person. Vote, go to political rallies, and volunteer for candidates, taking your children with you. Let them see you in action, and they will join in at an earlier age.

Join a local civic groups or organization that works to make the community strong. Get children involved in Scouts, AWANA, and other civically social groups.

Get children involved in charity work in the community. Feed the homeless, volunteer in shelters, and visit the sick and elderly. Children need to see that people around them are in need and that they can make a difference. Encourage them to take on projects on their own as they mature.

Do all of these things and others together as a family. Whether you are working to help others, or taking time for yourself, it is important for a family to operate as a unit. A strong community and a strong country begin with the home. A good family member will also be a good citizen.

Teach your children about citizenship

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Learn more about Andrea Hermitt

Andrea Hermitt is a native New Yorker currently residing in GA. She has been married for over 16 years and has two teenage children.

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