Answer
As-salamau `aalaikum,
Dear sister, I think it is wonderful that you are thinking about your son’s education before the formal time has come. It is never too soon to look into your options and to start teaching your child.
Your husband does have legitimate concerns about home schooling. Socialization, educational challenges, and even physical development are all issues that you should consider. Most established reputable schools have taken all of this into consideration when they set their curriculum and programs in place.
However, no one will ever know your child as well as you do, or care for your child better than you do. With some effort and a lot of dedication, you can give your child everything school can give him, and more. Home schooling can be very challenging and very rewarding.
Probably the best way to see if home schooling is right for your family is to start doing it right away. Recent studies have shown that the pre-school years are extremely important. In order to make the best of these years, you can set up a program for your child that will be both educational and fun.
Reading aloud to your child is a great activity, at any age. There are many wonderful children’s books available at your public library or bookstore. Look for the old classics as well as new favorites. Most libraries have special librarians for the children’s sections, who can help find books you and your child will enjoy. Some libraries offer “Mommy and Me” story time for toddlers. Even if your library does not, you can suggest it. Make reading out loud to your child part of your daily routine. Be sure to read Qur’an with him in addition to your other activities.
Another way to teach even very young children is by talking to them. Throughout your day, talk to your child about what you are doing, mention and point out details in the world around you. Some things to keep in mind are colors, smells, textures, and sounds. The more senses children become accustomed to using, the more they will learn. You can point out letters while saying their names and what sound they make, as well as counting items and showing numbers.
It is important to make sure that the goals we set for our children are realistic. We should know what they are physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of doing before we ask them to do it.
You can get information about pre-school milestones or achievements from the Internet or the library. You can use these as a guide for what to teach your child at what age. There may also be other Muslim moms in your area with helpful information. Having a support group of friends can be very helpful in creating a successful home school.
Be sure to include your husband in any activities you want to try. I cannot stress enough the importance of families reading Qur’an, praying, and playing together as a family. It creates a bond of trust and love that nothing else can.
May Allah reward you and guide you in your effort.
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