Many people are concerned about Social skills when it comes to homeschooling. Critics argue that the homeschooling environment is detrimental to the development of a child's social skills. Although social interaction is limited compared to a traditional school environment, studies have proved this wrong.

 

The school environment can be extremely harsh on children. A young child is not mature enough to handle things like bullying or fierce competition. Many times confidence and self image issues begin to take root. This can affect them for many years or even for life if not properly dealt with.

 

Children who learn at home are free of those distracting pressures. They will be able to ask freely when they don't understand something and be able to absorb the information quicker. Children begin their life by imitating their parents. Homeschooled children therefore have more time to develop the qualities they see in their parents. On the other hand, they are protected from the detrimental influences of their peers.

 

This doesn't mean it should be all parents and no friends. A healthy homeschool family has activities with local homeschool groups, as well as regular extracurricular activities like sports. What it does mean is that for the most productive part of the day, a child can be mentored by a mature adult rather than by another child.

 

Another element that needs to be addressed is that we are talking about a normal, healthy, and loving family. Unfortunately, many home environments are worse for a child than going to school. When a child is taught in a secure home environment, by a loving parent who is 100% committed to that child's success, it is very beneficial for their social health.