The 4-Hour School Day with Durenda Wilson - ETB #70

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When I began homeschooling in the early ’90s, most people didn’t know it was legal or if it was possible. Parents had a lot to prove to society, especially since professional educators had convinced parents that only qualified “teachers” were fit to educate children.

Well, we worked hard to prove that parents could educate their children thereby disproving their decades-long messaging. It was a tactic used to make parents doubt their ability to educate their children. After thirty years of shaping a movement, parents are still told they don’t have what it takes to teach their children. Something I find hard to imagine. Thankfully, millions of parents don’t buy into that argument anymore.

In this episode, Durenda Wilson, author of The 4-Hour School Day, shares what she has learned along the way. We debunk myths surrounding homeschooling and discuss the positive elements of children learning at home. Our goal is for you to have a positive attitude towards parenting and motherhood.

The 4-Hour School Day

You homeschooled all eight of your children; what advice do you have for parents just starting to homeschool?

You are qualified.
You can teach your child.
Don’t underestimate your ability.
Ignore the naysayers.
Don’t give up on hard days.
You’re on an adventure.
Work from a place of nurturing.

What advice do you have for parents who have been teaching at home for a few years?

Choose purpose over performance. It’s easy to fall into the performance trap, but you will be more likely not to get overwhelmed or stressed out when you keep the big picture in mind.

What are the major benefits of homeschooling your kids?

Parents decide what to teach, when to teach, and how to teach their children.
Parents can customize their education in such a way that their children thrive.

You are offering a fresh perspective on homeschooling; what is the biggest myth about homeschooling you want to debunk?

It doesn’t have to take all day. Homeschooling can be done in a 4-hour school day.
Socialization v Socializing: There is a difference!

Many parents feel they are not qualified to teach their kids; is that true?

No, it’s not true. You can teach your child. You play a valuable role as a parent. *No one cares more about your child’s education than you do.

What is the number one lesson you want readers to take away from “The Four-Hour School Day?”

That providing an excellent education doesn’t have to take all day. And that your role is valuable. Your children will gain a sense of security and safety with you as their primary educator.

Remember, you can choose purpose over performance as you homeschool your child!

About Durenda Wilson

With more than twenty-five years of home education experience, Durenda Wilson is a trusted voice and resource at homeschooling conventions and on The Durenda Wilson Podcast. Durenda and her husband, Darryl, have eight kids and six grandbabies. As an author and speaker, her greatest joy is helping moms discover God’s grace—and with it the courage to put their full trust in him, moving forward in faith and confidence.