I met a woman in Dunkin’ Donuts today and let’s just say that sometimes people are just campaigning for Queen of Ignorance. Somehow, and against my better judgement, I mentioned that we homeschool and that we were looking for a soccer team for our 4 year old.
It’s so easy to pass judgement. I could have assumed that this woman dressed in her business suit stopping into Dunkin’ Donuts with her 7 or 8 year old daughter after soccer practice and before heading to Girls’ Scouts was so devoid of any emotional connection to her daughter that she had to plow herself with caffeine and her daughter with donuts. I could have assumed that her overweight daughter was the victim of a mother who would rather indulge than say no because she harbored some deep guilt because she was working.
But I did not! I never passed judgment on this woman until she decided to pass judgement on me.
“So you homeschool, uh? I see why you want to put her in soccer – she needs the socialization.”
I shot her a look.
“Besides, it will prepare her for college.”
I was shocked but remained calm. My daughter is four. I thought she would stop.
“Kids are so much more well-rounded when they go to school.”
I couldn’t take it anymore.
“Your daughter’s shoes are on the wrong feet!”
Twitter: sheenatatum
says:
Listen to miss know it all with the 7yr old who can’t put her shoes on correctly. BWAHAHA!!!
The word “socialization” even in its appropriate context is a trigger for me at this point. Now, I simply stare blankly and say, “Uh huh, I see. I was homeschooled.” with no affect-in total psychopathic gaze, then I break it, laugh and leave the situation quickly. Meh, the people.
Twitter: callmeKristinaB
says:
I have tired of people. I am checking out of contact with people.
That angers me. That was so ignorant of her to say. Does she not know how these schools are failing these kids now and just how much brilliance is born in homeschool??!! Clearly not! Dumb ass lady! I recently put my son in virtual academy and he is way more alert, way more interested, and way more excited about learning. Yes, he misses his friends, but I make sure to keep those relationships current. However, school was a time for chatting it up when he was there so much of the lessons were being missed. No longer an issue. Anyway…I could go on and on about the idiot that can’t put her kid’s shoes on the right feet, but I’ll let her stick to being stupid and speaking in an ignorant tongue. Sad.
Twitter: callmeKristinaB
says:
Thanks for commenting. I totally agree that brilliance is born in home schools when done correctly! We are using Calvert with my daughter. It is amazing just how excited she is about learning. And granted, she is only 4, but this is the time to cultivate learning.
I am glad that you found a solution your educational woes with your son. I wish more parents would look into the alternatives instead of settling for sub-par offerings.