Telling Family You're Homeschooling

Some people are nervous about sharing their decision to homeschool with family members they fear will disapprove (Mothers In Law seem to be the scariest for many Moms). Here are a few tips for making it easier:

1. I would have my plan firmly in place first. Learn about the different curricula and approaches you're interested in and all of the wonderful online resources you'll likely be using. This will make it easier to help others understand what homeschooling really is.
2. Teach them the truth about Socialization and Homeschooling to rid your friend or family member of common myths and misconceptions. Look up some of the co-ops in your area to tell them about, read some articles, and watch some videos about being around kids and adults with many interests and backgrounds being better for him/her than being grouped with kids your own age who come from the same neighborhood. 
3. Have some exciting field trips and activities you want to do ready to talk about.
4. Look up the High School Drop Out Rate in your district as extra ammunition (this almost always works) and the National Statistics which are pretty frightening. 
5. Know what place we are in worldwide in science and math (we're behind some developing countries). 
6. And flattery works wonders! Ask them if they would be willing to lend their expertise (whether it's their job, hobbies, interests, college major to teaching your child some time!
7. Remind them that you're giving it a one year trial and that nothing is irrevocable! If Homeschooling doesn't work for your family you can always go back to a private or public school.

There are also some great resources on this blog to share with them:

• But What About Socialization?
• The First Few Months Homeschooling
• The Problem With Public Schools
• Finding Your Homeschooling Tribe
• Tracking and Planning

Here's the link to the discussion on SecularHomeschool.com

What are your suggestions for families terrified of telling a certain friend or relative about their plans?