Be Your Child's PR Agent

© Jill Bond

Are there any drawbacks to home schooling? I guess it is a matter of perspective. Since God called us to this way of life, there must be a positive flip side to anything detractors could say. One complaint we sometimes hear is a version of the old “socialization” argument: not enough recognition of our student’s accomplishments.

In a formal school setting when a child gets an “A” the whole class knows. They have opportunities for assembly, speeches, plays, etc. Homeschoolers have made many inroads into this arena – just look at local debate clubs, drama clubs, and the finalist in the National Geography and Spelling Bees. That is great for the child with a flair for performance. But what about their written work?

With my experience of teaching thousands of students across the nation, children are concerned about their work going nowhere but into a folder, into a box, and then eventually off to the attic. I strongly encourage you to “publish” your child’s writing and artwork. At least once a year, publish your child’s BEST work. Here are some ideas:

-- Christmas letters: For years, our son, Reed, would write a story that we would send out with our holiday greetings. Some professional editors liked them so much they asked permission to republish them in their magazines.

-- Writing contest: There are many writing contests offered every year. One of the best resources for this is written by Kathy Henderson and should be available in your public library: Young Writer’s Market Guide. Specifically for Christian writers, we at
The Bondingplace.com offer a series of writing lessons and contests on the Internet – all free of charge.

-- Your local support group newsletter: I have talked with many a newsletter editor who is starving for submissions. One reason parents give me for not submitting their child’s work is because they don’t think the work is “good enough.” Please keep in mind that it is a child’s work. You should proofread it and have your child make corrections, but do submit it. Their work will encourage other students and the circle begins.

-- Your statewide newsletter: If your state support group does not include a “Junior Writers” section, ask them to start one. It would be great experience for some of the students to volunteer to serve as the editors.

-- Your own email loops, mailing lists, or website: Many ISP’s (Internet Service Provider) offer free WebPages along with a subscription, use it to “broadcast” your child’s accomplishments. Alternatively, send their article along to friends via your own mailing lists, etc. In addition, of course, Grandma and Grandpa want to read it.

One other concern parents have about publishing their child’s work is the issue of pride. Will their child get “puffed up”? You as the parent/teacher can balance appropriately this pride issue with the sincere need for sharing honest work with others. It is all in how you handle it whether it is bragging or publishing.

If you have a P.R. idea or want to let others know of
a contest you found, let us know about it and we’ll
get the word out via our website –
http://www.bondingplace.com. The Bonding Place, PO Box
12103, Fort Pierce, FL 34979.