IndexHomeschooling MethodsReasons for Choosing HomeschoolingHomeschooling and SocializationConclusionHomeschooling parents are often asked and concerned about a common myth surrounding this method: the Does homeschooling make their children less sociable? According to NCES (National Center for Education Statistics), the definition of homeschoolers is children who obtain their education primarily at home instead of attending conventional schools. For this reason, the stereotype exists that homeschooled children lack social competence due to limited peer interactions. However, researchers and literature suggest that homeschooled children are not socially isolated. The statement is also supported by NCES data: homeschooled children among the school-age student population (5 to 17 years old) were 3.4% in 2012 compared to 2.2% in 2009. Evidently , homeschooling is a growing trend in education today, despite the concern. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Homeschooling Methods There are several homeschooling approaches that parents can choose from for their needs. According to Bergstrom (2012), homeschooling methods include “structured learning, distance learning, eclectic learning, 'unschooling,' to name a few” (p. 12). Structured learning involves a particular study time, suited to a fixed learning and teaching routine. Unlike other methods where parents can decide what their children will study, the unschooling method allows children to choose what they want to add beyond the basics: reading, writing and arithmetic. A combination of the above two makes the method eclectic that “some are structured, some are not” (Bergstrom, 2012). Another method that is becoming popular in homeschooling is distance learning. Distance learning allows parents to observe their children's performance via an online basis. All of these methods provide flexibility in time and location for homeschooling children; and they also offer the opportunity to work at your own pace. Reasons for Choosing Homeschooling Families who choose to homeschool state several reasons behind their choice. According to Medlin (2013), some parents show their concern about the impacts of the school environment, such as unwanted peer influences or achievement pressure on their children. For them, this environment can damage their confidence, lead to insecurity, dependency and make them even less attractive for social encounters. Other answers concern religion and morality. Overall, these parents want to be responsible for their children's education and at the same time deepen the relationship between them (Carson, 2009). Additionally, Medlin (2013) stated that parents believe that by choosing homeschooling they can “provide the kind of socialization experiences they want for their children” (p.109). Homeschooling and Socialization The definition of social competence is defined by Carson (2009) as “how effective you are in your social interactions with others” (p.3). According to Bergstrom (2012), regardless of the reasons why parents choose to homeschool, all parents put a lot of effort into helping their children develop normal social skills outside of the home. Many solutions are provided.