Starting Jan 3, 2006, Amrita, our eldest daughter, begins her own journey in learning process. She begins he life as a Primary 4 student in Kelana Jaya. Over the past 2 years Amrita has been persistently and consistently talking to us about experiencing the more structured learning environment in a school. At first, we thought it was the influence of her school-going friends and that she wanted to be with them. Perhaps it was partially the friends. At first, we put it aside and left things as it was. Over time, as she brought this matter up again (and again) it dawn us that she was serious. She was also consistent and most importantly she felt strongly about taking this path of formal educational experience.
As our mode of homeschooling is adopting the “unschooling” approach which basically respects the child’s decision and to put “trust our children” to guide us guide them in their educational experience, this approach led us to finally allow her to be enrolled in school.
We looked around the schools and we agreed that the current state of the public schools is out as we had to consider an environment where the transition from homeschooling can take place as seamlessly as possible. Through Sook Ching’s recommendation, we explored this private school – which pioneered the “fungate” education approach for pre-school students and has recently introduced primary education. We felt this school was closest to a smooth transition from homeschooling. Hence the beginning of Amrita’s schooling experience. She will complete her primary education and we will leave it to her if she feels she want to continue into secondary school or revert back to homeschooling later. We are prepared for that. Whatever it will be, we emphasized that she must go through certain process and not give up half-way. We are aware of the challenges, the shortcomings and that a lot of work needs to be put in. I guess Amrita is already aware of it. She is very excited and is looking forward to it.
Our families, both our parents were equally excited (and relieved that we have come to our senses – at least where Amrita is concern) as well. They have been helping in their preparation of the first day at school.
What are some of the thoughts that made use make this decision for Amrita. Firstly, Amrita’s persistence and consistency in articulating what she wants. Next, Amrita’s learning style. She is very academic inclined and love learning. With us, she asks very indepth questions and often go into very interesting discussions. She is also inclined to a more structured learning environment and feels comfortable with this approach. Most important to me was her desire to experience formal schooling – something we cannot deprive her from. The home schooling environment did not give her a chance to interact with other people as much as she would like to. Hence, we saw that she could not articulate her thoughts well outside our family environment.
So, what happens to Sam and Arian? Arian, is ok as he still has time. For Sam, the ocean seems too big and sky too high at this point in time. I guess it is still not the right time yet, even if she wanted to go into school now.
Some thoughts about homeschooling……. coming soon….
Wai Leng & K V
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