Any advice for making the transition from PS to HS any easier for a 13yo boy?

[AnneJ]

A friend of mine is planning on pulling her ds13 out of public school. She hasn't been thrilled with some of the life choices that he is making and he isn't doing well academically. She is worried about him rebelling once she does pull him out and she doesn't want him to think that homeschooling is a punishment. Any ideas on how to make the transition a little smoother?

TIA

AnneJ

[Joanne]

I'd start with reading the Teenage Liberation Handbook.

And google "deschooling".

And find other teen age homeschoolers.

I'd also specifically address the "life choices" if needed.

[Tracey in TX]

We pulled our children out of ps after Thanksgiving. We only did history, math and spelling for 2wks, preparing for a trip to Italy. We maintained a light schedule until after Christmas break. It gave them an opportunity to decompress and get out of the "It's 11:23, that's lunchtime", etc.

I would let the 13y/o review some of the curriculums and maybe allow him to choose something irrelevant. Also, give him some control of his daily schedule, etc. Make sure he schedules afterschool time with his friends (unless this is the issue).

Good luck to your friend