Are Uniforms for Homeschool a Valid Option?
by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff
As a parent who homeschools her children I get asked a variety of questions all the time. In fact, I get so many that I often write about them in case others wonder the same things that are asked of me. One question I've been asked quite a few times is whether or not homeschooled kids should wear uniforms. Based on my thoughts and experiences, here is my analysis of this homeschool topic.
Avoiding Questions About Homeschool
Before you laugh (I almost did the first time I got this question), I actually can see some situations in which a person might feel this would be a good idea. For instance, if a kid in homeschool is on a field trip, a uniform may help avoid questions. Depending on the family, this may be a viable option. I personally don't mind getting asked questions because it gives me a chance to inform others. Questions regarding choice of school methods and how they work can make for some interesting conversations. It also can help quell some of the myths associated with this schooling method.
Safety in Public Places
If field trips take places in crowded areas, uniforms might make it easier to keep track of everyone. I could see them being used on homeschooled kids in situations like this for safety purposes. However, this doesn't necessarily mean the kids need to wear traditional school uniforms. Dressing everyone in your group in a neon green outfit could do the trick. That's assuming they'd all want to wear it. That's the beauty of homeschool. Each family can decide together what is suitable and safe for everyone.
Comfort for the Students
One of the many benefits of homeschooling is allowing the kids to be comfortable. Enforcing a dress code may do the opposite of that. When not on a field trip where the environment is crowded, kids should be allowed to just be kids. The way people dress is part of individuality and some may not feel comfortable in a uniform. If your kids do, then I say go for it, if it makes them happy. But if a homeschooled child is sitting at a desk, computer, or maybe even at the library or park, there may not necessarily be any reason to wear a uniform. A comfortable kid is a happy kid and a happy kid is probably more likely to concentrate on school work than one who is uncomfortable.
*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network
Avoiding Questions About Homeschool
Before you laugh (I almost did the first time I got this question), I actually can see some situations in which a person might feel this would be a good idea. For instance, if a kid in homeschool is on a field trip, a uniform may help avoid questions. Depending on the family, this may be a viable option. I personally don't mind getting asked questions because it gives me a chance to inform others. Questions regarding choice of school methods and how they work can make for some interesting conversations. It also can help quell some of the myths associated with this schooling method.
Safety in Public Places
If field trips take places in crowded areas, uniforms might make it easier to keep track of everyone. I could see them being used on homeschooled kids in situations like this for safety purposes. However, this doesn't necessarily mean the kids need to wear traditional school uniforms. Dressing everyone in your group in a neon green outfit could do the trick. That's assuming they'd all want to wear it. That's the beauty of homeschool. Each family can decide together what is suitable and safe for everyone.
Comfort for the Students
One of the many benefits of homeschooling is allowing the kids to be comfortable. Enforcing a dress code may do the opposite of that. When not on a field trip where the environment is crowded, kids should be allowed to just be kids. The way people dress is part of individuality and some may not feel comfortable in a uniform. If your kids do, then I say go for it, if it makes them happy. But if a homeschooled child is sitting at a desk, computer, or maybe even at the library or park, there may not necessarily be any reason to wear a uniform. A comfortable kid is a happy kid and a happy kid is probably more likely to concentrate on school work than one who is uncomfortable.
*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network
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