What should a grandparent’s role be in the homeschooling family? Should a grandparent have a role? The role a grandparent plays will vary according to proximity and relationship. A grandparent to a homeschooled grandchild is blessed indeed. A homeschooled child has more opportunities to spend time with the grandparent during the day. A schooled child will be at school for six hours and then most likely involved in extracurricular activities until dinner time. After that the child will have to do homework and get ready for the next day. It is likely to only see grandparents on weekends. A homeschooled child has a more flexible schedule. Since this is the case involving a grandparent in the education process or for moral support can benefit the entire family.
Roles a grandparent can take:
Substitute teacher: There may be times when mom needs a break or has an obligation. During those times it would be nice to have a substitute teacher. Why not ask grandma or grandpa if that role can be assigned to one of them? You can give your children work in advance to complete while at the grandparents’ home.
Support system: The most important role a grandparent can take is that of support system. Homeschooling can be a rough road and having a soft place to land can be refreshing and comforting for all involved. Support for the children in their accomplishments is also a nice role for a grandparent to take. I am aware that some grandparents are unwilling to support due to their disapproval of homeschooling. However, that is hardly the child’s decision and a homeschooled child’s art project deserves the same place on the fridge as a schooled child’s.
Teacher: Would grandma be willing to teach home ec? Would grandpa be willing to teach how to change the oil on a car? Perhaps one is a photographer, doctor, or former teacher. Maybe you could enlist one or both to teach your child a lesson or class over a short period of time.
Field trip companion: Invite grandma and grandpa on field trips. It would be a nice way for everyone to spend time together. It will also show grandma and grandpa what a blessing homeschooling is to their grandchildren.