Homeschooling, Preschool, or Both? Making the Right Choice for Your Child

So, you’re standing at the crossroads of early childhood education, wondering whether to send your little one to preschool or to embrace the homeschooling path from the get-go. It’s a significant decision, and like any good debate, there are compelling arguments on both sides. Let’s dive into the pros and cons, backed by research and real-life experiences, to help you navigate this pivotal choice.

The Case for Preschool: Structure, Socialization, and School Readiness

Pros:

  1. Structured Learning Environment: Preschools offer a structured setting where children engage in activities that promote cognitive and social development. This environment can help children adapt to routines similar to those they’ll encounter in kindergarten and beyond. (NCES)
  2. Socialization Opportunities: Interacting with peers helps children develop essential social skills like sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution. These early interactions can lay the groundwork for healthy relationships throughout life. (Harvard University)
  3. Exposure to Diverse Experiences: Preschools often include activities that introduce children to various cultures, ideas, and perspectives, fostering open-mindedness. (PBS Kids)
  4. Preparation for Formal Schooling: Research shows that attending preschool can lead to better academic outcomes in later years. For example, a study from MIT found that preschool attendance positively correlates with high school graduation rates and college attendance (MIT News).

Cons:

  1. Cost: Quality preschool programs can be expensive. The average cost ranges from $4,000 to $13,000 per year, with specialized programs like Montessori costing up to $18,000 annually. (Care.com)
  2. Less Individualized Attention: Teachers in a preschool setting must divide their attention among many students, which can make it harder to address each child’s unique learning style. (Edutopia)
  3. Potential for Early Burnout: Introducing structured academics too early may reduce enthusiasm for learning in some children. (Zero to Three)

The Homeschooling Path: Flexibility, Customization, and Family Bonding

Pros:

  1. Customized Learning Experience: Homeschooling allows parents to tailor the curriculum to their child’s interests and pace, fostering a love of learning. (HSLDA)
  2. Flexible Schedule: Families can structure learning around their lifestyle, incorporating spontaneous learning opportunities and family time. (The Homeschool Mom)
  3. Stronger Family Bonds: Spending more time together can strengthen parent-child relationships and provide a secure attachment base. (The Old Schoolhouse)
  4. Safe Learning Environment: Homeschooling offers a controlled setting, reducing exposure to negative influences or bullying. (Verywell Family)

Cons:

  1. Time and Energy Intensive: Homeschooling requires a significant commitment from parents, which can be challenging, especially if balancing work. (PBS)
  2. Limited Social Interaction: Without proactive efforts, homeschooled children may have fewer opportunities to develop social skills. (Parents)
  3. Access to Resources: Finding quality materials and activities can take time and effort. (Homeschool.com)

Combining Homeschool and Preschool Enrichment Programs

Blending homeschool with preschool enrichment can feel like a sweet spot for many families. It allows you to have the best of both worlds: the personal, hands-on nature of homeschooling and the structured, social setting of preschool. Plus, your child can build friendships, explore new ideas, and still have that one-on-one learning time with you. (This Little Home of Mine)

Tips for Making It Work:

  1. Coordinate Schedules: Look for a preschool that offers part-time or flexible options. Some programs are just a few days a week, making them easier to blend with your homeschool routine. (NP Christian)
  2. Integrate Learning Themes: Make learning seamless by connecting the preschool themes with your homeschool lessons. If the preschool is focusing on community helpers, you can plan a field trip to a fire station or invite a local police officer to talk to your child at home.
  3. Keep a Routine: Even with the mix, having some consistent elements—like morning songs or storytime—can help your child transition between the two environments.
  4. Build Social Skills: Let your child practice sharing and group activities at preschool, then reinforce those skills at home through family games or group playdates.
  5. Stay Connected with the Program: Regularly check in with preschool teachers to understand what your child is learning and see how you can build on those ideas at home.

By thoughtfully combining homeschooling with a preschool enrichment program, you can create a comprehensive educational experience that supports your child’s development both academically and socially. Take the time to explore your options, consider your child’s unique needs, and create a plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.




What Screens Are Doing to Our Kids—And What We Can Do About It

I’m not an expert. I’m just a mom, a teacher, and someone who has spent a lot of time reading about this because, frankly, I see it every day. Our kids are different than we were. They’re more anxious, more disconnected, more medicated. They struggle to focus, they don’t play like we did, and they’re not as happy. And honestly? Every study I’ve come across seems to point to the same thing—screen time is wrecking them.

Now, before anyone jumps in—yes, technology has benefits. Yes, screens can be educational. And no, I’m not saying we should throw away every tablet and phone and live off the land. But what I am saying is that we need to have a real conversation about what this much screen time is doing to our kids’ brains, their happiness, their social skills, and their ability to function in the real world.

The Depression Connection

It’s no secret that kids today are struggling with their mental health. If you look at the data, depression and anxiety in children and teens have absolutely skyrocketed over the last couple of decades. And guess what else has skyrocketed? Screen time.

One study found that teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on social media are twice as likely to develop depression (The REACH Institute). Another found that kids who spend too much time on screens have higher rates of emotional distress, lower self-esteem, and increased feelings of loneliness (PMC).

Why? Because social media and screen-based entertainment do a great job of making kids feel like they’re not enough. The filters, the curated posts, the constant comparison—it’s messing with their self-worth. They’re being raised in a world where their value is tied to likes and comments instead of real-life experiences and relationships.

They’re Losing the Ability to Socialize

When we were kids, we played. We ran around outside, we knocked on our friends’ doors, we rode bikes, built forts, and played ridiculous made-up games. Kids today? Not so much.

Instead, they’re glued to their screens. And because of that, they’re losing out on crucial social experiences that teach them how to read emotions, solve problems, and interact with other people. Kids who spend too much time on screens tend to struggle with things like eye contact, patience, and basic conversation skills (People). And it makes sense—if you don’t practice socializing, you’re going to have a hard time with it.

And here’s the worst part—when kids do finally hang out in person, they’re still on their phones. Have you seen a group of teens together lately? Half the time, they’re not even talking to each other. They’re sitting next to each other, staring at their screens.

Facebook and Social Media—The Turning Point

There’s a reason this problem didn’t exist before. Facebook launched in 2004. The iPhone came out in 2007. Instagram? 2010. TikTok? 2016.

Before that, kids weren’t glued to screens all day. They weren’t spending six, seven, even ten hours a day scrolling. They weren’t being raised in a world where everything they do is watched, judged, and compared.

Social media isn’t just a distraction—it’s an addiction. And it’s designed that way. The notifications, the infinite scrolling, the dopamine hits—it’s built to keep them hooked. And when kids spend that much time staring at screens, they’re not doing the things they actually need to be doing for their brains and bodies to develop properly.

Learning, Imagination, and the Rise of ADHD

Kids today don’t imagine like they used to. They don’t get bored anymore—because the second boredom hits, they grab a screen. And that’s a problem.

Boredom is where creativity happens. It’s where kids invent games, make up stories, and explore ideas. But when they never get the chance to be bored, they never develop those skills. Instead, their brains get used to instant gratification, flashy images, and constant stimulation.

And that might be part of why ADHD diagnoses are skyrocketing. More and more kids are being put on meds because they can’t sit still, can’t focus, and can’t handle normal classroom learning. Could it be that their brains have been rewired to expect fast, flashy, constantly-changing entertainment instead of the slower pace of real life? Studies suggest that yes, this might be happening (PMC).

What Can We Do?

So now that we’ve laid all this out—what’s the solution?

For Parents:

  • Set boundaries. Make screen time limited and intentional.
  • Encourage real-life play. Board games, Legos, nature walks—anything that isn’t a screen.
  • Delay social media. Kids don’t need TikTok at 9 years old. Period.
  • Be the example. If we’re glued to our phones, we can’t expect them to be any different.

For Schools:

  • Less tech in the classroom. Not every lesson needs to be on an iPad.
  • More recess, more hands-on learning. Kids learn best when they’re moving, interacting, and using all their senses.
  • Phone-free policies. Schools that have banned phones see massive improvements in focus, behavior, and social skills (NY Post).

Homeschool vs. Traditional School

Homeschooling: One of the big benefits here is that screen time can be controlled much more easily. Parents can integrate technology when it’s helpful (like online lessons) but still make space for real-world learning, outdoor time, and imaginative play.

Traditional Schools: These come with more challenges, since screens are often used in the classroom. But schools CAN do more to limit non-essential screen time and encourage kids to be present and engaged.

It’s Not Too Late

The good news? We’re not powerless. We can make changes. We can create boundaries. We can encourage real play, real connection, and real experiences.

Because at the end of the day, kids don’t need more apps, more YouTube, or more virtual friends. They need us. They need childhood. And it’s our job to make sure they don’t lose it to a screen.


Sources & Studies:

Want to discuss this more? Let’s talk. Because this is something we all need to get serious about.




Reading Matters: How U.S. Students Are Performing and What It Means for Your Child

Understanding Reading Scores in Traditional Schools vs. Homeschooling and Why Literacy Is Essential

Reading is one of the most critical skills a child can develop, shaping their academic success, career prospects, and overall cognitive growth. But how well are students in the U.S. actually reading? Recent national assessments show concerning trends in reading proficiency across both traditional schools and homeschooling. This article breaks down the latest reading scores, highlights how Tennessee is doing, compares homeschool vs. traditional school performance, and explains why reading education should be a top priority for every family.


How Are Students Performing in Reading?

National Reading Scores

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often referred to as the “Nation’s Report Card,” provides a snapshot of reading performance across the country. The most recent data shows:

  • Fourth Graders: Only 30% of U.S. fourth graders scored at or above proficient in reading.
  • Eighth Graders: Just 29% of eighth graders reached proficiency, marking a decline from previous years.
  • COVID-19 Impact: Reading scores saw a sharp drop following the pandemic, with many students struggling to regain lost ground.

Read more about the NAEP results


Tennessee’s Reading Performance

Tennessee has seen improvements in reading scores compared to the national average:

  • Fourth Grade: 32% of students in Tennessee scored proficient in reading—slightly above the national average of 30%.
  • Eighth Grade: 32% of students reached proficiency, outpacing the national average of 29%.

Tennessee’s education programs, including targeted reading interventions and structured literacy programs, may be contributing to these gains.

Learn more about Tennessee’s reading initiatives


Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: Who Reads Better?

Parents often wonder whether homeschooling or traditional schooling offers the best outcomes for reading proficiency. Studies provide some insights:

Homeschooling Reading Scores

  • Homeschooled students tend to score 15-30% higher in standardized tests compared to their public school peers.
  • A study by the National Home Education Research Institute found that homeschooled students excelled in reading comprehension due to more individualized instruction and flexibility in curriculum choices.
  • However, research from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that homeschooled students sometimes score lower in reading comprehension skills compared to traditional school students, possibly due to less exposure to structured reading programs.
    Read more about homeschool performance
    Traditional School Reading Scores
    Public and private school students receive structured literacy instruction, trained teachers, and standardized assessments that help track progress.
    However, class sizes, curriculum constraints, and varying quality of instruction can lead to gaps in reading development, particularly among students who need additional support.
    Key Takeaway:
    Neither homeschooling nor traditional schooling is inherently better for reading skills—it depends on teaching methods, parental involvement, and curriculum choices.

    Why Reading Proficiency Matters for Your Child
    1. Academic Success
    Students with strong reading skills perform better in all subjects, including math and science, because reading comprehension is essential for problem-solving and learning new concepts.
    2. Future Career Opportunities
    Adults with higher literacy rates earn 30-40% more income and have better job prospects. Reading proficiency also increases college readiness and success.
    3. Critical Thinking & Cognitive Growth
    Reading enhances vocabulary, creativity, and critical thinking skills, helping children become more confident learners.
    4. Social & Emotional Benefits
    Students who struggle with reading often experience lower self-esteem and higher levels of frustration in school. Early intervention can make a significant difference in their confidence and love for learning.
    Explore resources to help your child become a stronger reader

    What Can Parents Do to Improve Reading Skills?
    Make Reading a Daily Habit – Encourage your child to read for at least 20 minutes a day.
    Choose Books They Love – Let kids pick books that interest them to make reading enjoyable.
    Use Audiobooks & Read-Alouds – Hearing stories read aloud helps develop comprehension and fluency.
    Engage in Conversations About Reading – Ask questions about the books they read to boost critical thinking.
    Utilize Local & Online Resources – Many libraries and educational websites offer free reading programs.
    Check out Tennessee’s reading resources for parents

    Final Thoughts
    Reading proficiency is not just about school success—it’s about giving kids the tools they need to thrive in life. Whether your child is in a traditional school or homeschooled, ensuring they receive quality reading instruction should be a top priority. Tennessee’s recent improvements show that progress is possible with the right focus and strategies.
    Want to support your child’s reading journey? Start small—read together, ask questions, and make learning fun. The investment you make in their literacy today will pay off for a lifetime.
    How do you help your child develop strong reading skills? Share your tips in the comments!

  • National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Reportshttps://nces.ed.gov/
  • Tennessee Reading & Education Resources
  • Tennessee Department of Education Literacy Programshttps://www.tn.gov/education/early-literacy.html
  • Tennessee Early Literacy Networkhttps://www.tnscore.org/early-literacy-network/
  • Read to Be Ready (Tennessee Initiative)https://www.tn.gov/education/early-literacy/read-to-be-ready.html
  • Parent & Educator Reading Resources
  • Reading Rockets (Strategies, Activities, and Book Lists)https://www.readingrockets.org/
  • Scholastic Parent Resourceshttps://www.scholastic.com/parents.html
  • PBS Kids Reading Games & Activitieshttps://pbskids.org/games/reading/
  • Starfall (Early Reading Support for Young Learners)https://www.starfall.com/h/
  • International Literacy Association (Research & Best Practices)https://www.literacyworldwide.org/
  • Homeschooling & Reading Studies
  • National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI)https://www.nheri.org/research/
  • Responsible Homeschooling Data & Reportshttps://responsiblehomeschooling.org/research/the-test-score-myth/
  • HSLDA Reading & Literacy Support for Homeschoolershttps://hslda.org/
  • General Literacy & Educational Research
  • Institute of Education Sciences (IES) Literacy Reportshttps://ies.ed.gov/
  • Edutopia Literacy Strategies & Best Practiceshttps://www.edutopia.org/literacy
  • National Literacy Directory (Find Local Literacy Programs)https://www.nationalliteracydirectory.org/



The Third-Grade Reading Crisis: Why It’s a Big Deal

Recent Studies – Why Third-Grade Reading Matters: The Crisis Holding Millions of Kids Back

If kids can’t read by third grade, their future is at risk. The U.S. is facing a literacy crisis—here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what we can do to fix it.

There’s a critical shift in education that happens around third or fourth grade: kids stop learning to read and start reading to learn. Before this point, they are developing essential literacy skills—recognizing letters, understanding phonics, and putting words together. After third grade, reading becomes the key to learning everything else—science, history, math word problems, even following directions in assignments.

So what happens when a child doesn’t learn to read proficiently by the end of third grade? Research shows that they are four times more likely to drop out of high school than their peers who can. This isn’t just an academic problem; it’s a life-altering one. (Annie E. Casey Foundation Report)


The Numbers: How Bad Is It?

The literacy crisis in the U.S. is worse than most people realize. According to the most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the “Nation’s Report Card”:

  • Only 31% of fourth graders in the U.S. are proficient in reading. That means nearly 70% of kids are already behind.
  • Reading scores have dropped over the last few years, not improved.
  • The gap is even wider for low-income students, with 80% of economically disadvantaged kids failing to meet reading standards.

(NAEP Report)

These numbers should be a wake-up call. When two-thirds of American kids can’t read well by fourth grade, the consequences ripple through the rest of their education and beyond.


What Happens When Kids Don’t Learn to Read by Third Grade?

When kids fall behind in reading, it’s not just an academic issue—it affects their confidence, their motivation, and their entire future. Here’s what’s at stake:

  • They struggle in every subject. If you can’t read, you can’t keep up in math, science, history, or even basic instructions in class.
  • They lose confidence. Many struggling readers start to feel “stupid” and disengage from school entirely.
  • They’re far more likely to drop out. Kids who aren’t reading proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma.
  • They have fewer job opportunities. Poor literacy skills limit career choices, earnings potential, and economic mobility.
  • They’re more likely to end up in the criminal justice system. 85% of juveniles in the court system struggle with reading, a shocking statistic that shows just how deep this issue runs.

(U.S. Department of Education Report)


Why Are So Many Kids Struggling?

There isn’t just one reason why reading scores are so low. It’s a mix of systemic issues and changing societal habits.

1. How Reading Is Taught Matters—And It’s Not Always Effective

There’s a long-running debate in education about the best way to teach reading. Many experts argue that structured phonics-based instruction—teaching kids how to sound out words—is the most effective approach. But not all schools use this method, and many teachers aren’t trained in evidence-based literacy instruction.

A report by the National Council on Teacher Quality found that less than half of teacher preparation programs adequately train future educators on how to teach reading properly. (NCTQ Report)

2. Less Reading, More Screens

Kids today are spending way more time on screens and much less time reading books. Studies show that children who are read to daily at home develop stronger literacy skills, but many families don’t have the time or resources to do this consistently.

3. The Pandemic Set Kids Back Even Further

Remote learning wasn’t effective for early literacy development, and many young students missed out on critical reading instruction. As a result, reading proficiency levels took a major hit.


How Can We Fix This?

The good news? We know how to solve this problem. Schools, parents, and policymakers all have a role to play in turning things around.

1. Schools Must Prioritize Evidence-Based Reading Instruction

Mississippi is one state that tackled the reading crisis head-on. By implementing science-backed phonics instruction, improving teacher training, and focusing on early intervention, they saw major improvements in reading scores—one of the few states where literacy levels actually went up instead of down. (Mississippi Literacy Success Report)

2. Parents Can Help at Home

Even small changes at home can make a huge difference. Research shows that kids who are read to for just 15 minutes a day perform significantly better in school. Encouraging reading for fun, having books in the house, and limiting screen time can all help strengthen literacy skills.

3. Teacher Training Needs to Improve

We need to ensure that all teachers are trained in evidence-based reading instruction. Phonics works, and more states should require that schools use structured literacy programs that actually help kids succeed.


The Bottom Line

Reading proficiency by third grade is a huge predictor of a child’s future success. Right now, 70% of fourth graders in the U.S. aren’t reading at grade level—that’s a crisis that demands action.

But there’s hope. We know what works: structured literacy instruction, early intervention, and more support for struggling readers. The question is, are we willing to prioritize reading education before it’s too late?

Because if we don’t, we’re setting millions of kids up for failure. But if we do? We change lives.


Sources & Further Reading

Want to take action? Support reading initiatives, push for better literacy programs, and most importantly—read with a child today.