I have the priveledge of giving standardized tests to our homeschool students today.  What a neat group of kids.  It is interesting to watch them as they take the tests.  Several of those who finished first in the language arts section are the same students who needed all of the time allotted to complete the math.  

And one of the eighth grade girls finished her 30 minute math test in just 8 minutes!  Another was unable to complete the test before the 30 minute deadline. 

It definately puts things into perspective.  Sometimes we as homeschoolers are so concerned about ensuring that our students ”measure up” to the standards of our local school districts that we end up pushing them to succeed in subjects that are a real struggle for them. 

I have often fallen into the same trap.  My daughter will never be a whiz at math, but she is gifted in writing and literature.  And she excels in history.  Guess what?  God does not have math in her future, but He has plans for her and He has given her gifts that will equip her to carry out those plans.  I must constantly remind myself of that, especially at this time of year when I am fully immersed in homeschool evaluations and end up comparing my kids to those I am evaluating.

So we wil press on in math, but not into advanced math and calculus.  And we will find outlets for her to use her leadership skills as well as her academic abilities in the areas where she excels. 

In the meantime, I have two homeschoolers who are very gifted in math and who love science.  They will go in an entirely different direction.

So, my advice to you is this.  Relax.  Find the areas where your child excels and provide ways to really pursue them.  And press on in the other subjects.  But recognize that one child’s strengths will not be the same as anothers. 

And when you receive your standardized test results, use them to pinpoint strengths and needs and act accordingly.  Do not allow them to be a measurement of homeschool success.  You know what you have taught and and what your child has learned much better than any test can show.

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