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Originally Posted by Coppertop
Why does it seem everyone here assumes the two are mutually exclusive? Can parents not send their children to a public (or private as it may be) school and also instruct them at home? I should think the child would benefit all the more from this.
That being said, I'd say simply encouraging your children to read (any and everything) does wonders for educating them.
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That's exactly what my parents did for me. My dad is a public high school principal, so homeschooling was never an option. I was a gifted/advanced student all through school because of the following reasons: 1) Education did not end once I left the classroom. My parents made sure I had plenty of educational opportunities outside of the classroom as well and opportunity to learn on my own. 2) I was encouraged to read as much as I wanted, whatever I wanted. 3) My parents set a positive example for me--they made it clear education was important. 4) I have never once taken a vacation just to take a vacation (ie sit on the beach and tan). All of our family trips have included some kind of educational experience--be it exploring the geology of a given area or going to art museums.
I learned about the world inside the classroom and outside of it, because my parents were commited to giving me the best education possible. When it comes time for me to raise my own children, I will do the same thing. I will be involved with my child's public school education and make sure they are learning the things I feel they need to know if they are not covered in the classroom. I will encourage them to pursue educational opportunities wherever they are to be found.
A parent's dedication is the most important aspect to a child's education, regardless of who educates them.