How Three Hours a Day Opened a World of Learning and Music
Hey there! I’d love to share my experience homeschooling my daughter in Florence, Italy. It’s been quite a journey, and I’m so grateful for the time we’ve had together.
A Flexible Homeschooling Schedule
I taught my daughter all her school subjects, spending about three hours a day, five days a week, throughout elementary and middle school. It might not sound like much, but those hours were packed! The best part of this schedule was that it left her with plenty of free time to explore her passions. She immersed herself in music, especially the violin, and her progress has been truly inspiring.
Navigating Homeschooling Rules in Italy
Living in Italy meant following specific homeschooling guidelines. Each year, I notified the mayor of Florence about our setup, as they are responsible for all school-age children in the city. Additionally, I maintained communication with the director of our reference school. This was essential because my daughter needed to take annual proficiency exams there to advance to the next grade and keep her future options open.
The exams were challenging at first, but my daughter excelled every time. Her success was a result of our hard work and careful planning. By the time she completed eighth grade, she passed the state exam with flying colors, paving her way to high school.
Supportive Teachers and a Successful Transition
Throughout our homeschooling journey, the teachers and leaders at the reference school were incredibly supportive. Their encouragement made a significant difference. Now, in her fourth year of high school, my daughter has seamlessly transitioned back into the public school system. Since freshman year, she has continued to achieve excellent grades, demonstrating the strong foundation homeschooling provided.
Reflecting on the Homeschooling Adventure
Looking back, I’m filled with pride and gratitude for this experience. Homeschooling wasn’t always easy, but the rewards far outweighed the challenges. If you’re considering homeschooling, I encourage you to try it—it’s an adventure worth taking!