Pope Family
Amanda (mom), Daniel (son 10)
After struggling with the schooling environment for 5 years Daniel had become increasingly miserable, frustrated, and angry. It was very rare to see him smile and enjoy life as kids do. He was rough and aggressive with other children and he was combative with adults. I saw his behaviour getting worse as time progressed, and the school began to discuss the option of having an aide assigned to Daniel to prevent any violent outbursts.
I decided I would try homeschooling him. He was excited that he would not have to go back to school. I registered with the distance learning program in the local school district. Things improved greatly. Daniel was still frustrated by the rigid structure of the school curriculum, and resisted all of his assignments. Through getting to know other home school families I learned about Self Design.
This seemed like a great option for such a determined kid with a brilliant mind, who likes to do everything his way. It has taken almost this full first year for him to decompress from the structure. He is still suspicious that curriculum will be imposed on him. I am starting, however, to see the magic happen. He is starting to develop his interests and intellect at such an amazing rate... it is truly phenomenal. Most importantly though he has become happy, loving, and comfortable in the world.
