With all of the programs available to us in school, community, church, and work, why would we encourage our children to study independently?  After all, isn't it easier to learn a new concept or skill in a group? 

These are the types of questions that I wrestle with constantly, and this is how I answer: 

• First, the existence of numerous programs does not mean that I must take advantage of them all.  There is not enough time in the day to fully participate in all activities. 
• Second, our children are standing on the shoulders of giants.  Giants like George Washington, Marie Curie, and Albert Einstein are available through their writings, not these activities.  
• Third, while it can be easier to learn a new skill or concept in a group setting, it can also be a hinderance.  It is my job as the parent mentor to decide with my child which activities are best for certain skills and which are not.  

I encourage my students to train their minds and bodies to study independently.  The learning skills developed through independent study are worthy of a classical education and students from every generation have reaped the benefits.  Independent study encourages ownership of the material learned, develops time management as the student sets his own schedule, and builds strong character when he learns to focus amidst chaos. 

Does this mean that we hand our children a book and say, 'good luck'? May it never be! Our students learn to study independently, but aren't abandoned.  When a concept is difficult to fully grasp without help, then help is offered.  That is why our students have complete access to tutors, mentors, texts, and sometimes even google. 

Am I saying that we should eschew all outside activities? No, of course not.  Instead we analyze the situation to determine what is best for our children.  Do I need to brave traffic so that my son can sit in on a math discussion? Does my daughter gain from performing the science lab in a group? When planning our student's high school years it can be tempting to look at the list of courses and register our child for each and every offering available.  Let's not forget to ask ourselves: 'Does my child need to do this coursework outside of our home, or is our time better spent elsewhere?'