Do you use a tutor?

I’m not using an instructor for foreign language, but I use several “instructors” for other activities/academics. One of my boys is in a math class and that’s turned out to be one of the best things I’ve done in a long time. The best thing I did was incorporate CM methods into our home education, but using outside resources has been something I have done ever since I began homeschooling.

Now if you’re asking about foreign lang. specifically, then, no, I’ve never done that…well, other than in a co-op situation.

I think the first “con” may be the cost, then the time it takes to get to the tutor (unless they come to you). And, depending on the individual, communication between instructor/parent can be slim unless you point blank ask how your kid is doing. I’m experiencing that with one instrutor but I just take it as her personality (way different than mine) and the age of the kids in the class (they are jr. high and above). I did receive a nice email from her today that did give me the feedback/communication I was waiting for.

Pros: I actually enjoy my dc being taught by others (not in a PS setting, but in varied settings). I like to see how they respond to the instructor and the feedback I receive. I don’t always like to have to learn everything first, then teach my dc, or learn along side them…I just don’t always have the time or the passion that the pro. has. Sometimes, my dc listen to a professional better than they listen to me (and they are pretty respectful kids), but they just seem more focused. Maybe it’s because they aren’t in our environment and they are able to focus without their belongings around them, I don’t know. They do really well with others and I enjoy it for them.

With all that said, I am with my dc practically 24/7. When they are at classes/activities outside the home, I am usually with them or they are at a place that is well monitored or in the care of people I trust.

Does that help??

I should’ve mentioned what simple mom did. I am thankful for the options, as well. I am thankful to be able to homeschool my dc but have the community, or experts, if you will, teach them what I am unable to or do not have the equipment/passion/experience, and so on.