With ongoing school placement challenges, more South African parents are exploring alternative education paths for their children.
The good news is that dynamic and flexible options are available, and parents don’t have to compromise on their child’s education. “Home and online learning offer a structured, high-quality alternative that can be tailored to the needs of each family,” says Louise Schoonwinkel, MD of Optimi Schooling that operates Impaq.
For families considering this route, Schoonwinkel offers 10 practical considerations that should underpin the decision.
Why homeschooling?
Before making the transition, it’s essential to understand why homeschooling might be the right choice for your family. Some of the key benefits include:
- Home and online schooling eliminates the uncertainty of school placement, ensuring your child’s education starts on time.
- Your child can learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their individual strengths.
- Unlike traditional schools, which have fixed subject choices, home and online schooling allows learners to explore a wider range of subjects.
- Home and online schooling follows a structured curriculum like CAPS, ensuring that learners receive the same National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification as traditional school students.
Choose the right curriculum
The first step in homeschooling is selecting the right curriculum. “This decision should align with your child’s learning needs, future aspirations, and local education regulations. Impaq offers a CAPS-aligned curriculum, ensuring that homeschooled learners remain on par with their peers in mainstream schools,” Schoonwinkel explains.
Set up a learning-friendly space
A dedicated, quiet, and well-equipped learning space at home can help learners focus and stay engaged. Ensure the area has all necessary learning materials, including a computer, internet access, and stationery.
Establish clear routines and boundaries
One of the biggest adjustments when moving from a traditional school setting to homeschooling is defining a clear structure. Create a daily schedule that includes learning time, breaks, and extracurricular activities to maintain balance.
Maintain social interaction
A common concern for parents considering homeschooling is whether their child will miss out on social experiences. “The reality is that home and online schooled learners often have more flexibility to engage in activities outside of a school setting. Joining homeschooling groups, sports clubs, or online communities can help learners build strong social connections,” Schoonwinkel advises.
Monitor progress and adapt as needed
Assessing your child’s progress regularly is key to ensuring they stay on track. Whether through formal tests, projects, or discussions, keep track of their learning and adjust teaching methods where necessary.
Understand the legal requirements
Parents must ensure they comply with local homeschooling regulations, including registering their child as a homeschooler where required.
Prepare for challenges
Like any change, transitioning to homeschooling comes with its challenges. “It may take time to find the right rhythm, and learners may initially resist the change. However, with patience, support, and access to experienced subject specialists, homeschooling can become an effective and rewarding education model,” Schoonwinkel says.
Encourage independence in learning
Homeschooling encourages learners to take responsibility for their own education. Encourage self-directed projects and independent learning to help build confidence and a love for learning.
Ultimately, parents know what’s best for their child. If homeschooling aligns with your family’s needs, trust your decision and embrace the flexibility, quality, and opportunity it offers.
