Economic times being what they are, some families are cutting back on daycare. This is a drastic move for families who have become quite dependent on daycare services, while both parents work. Nonetheless, necessity dictates a change of priorities and lifestyle. If you're in that position, or you know someone who is, you know there are pressures from several sides. My suggestion is to seriously consider the benefits of staying at home and home schooling your children.

Home schooling can be done inexpensively, or even free, making for a much lighter load on the budget. There's no need to pay for lunches or other work related expenses. You also won't be faced with unexpected or unwelcome expenses associated with public school activities.

Of course, there are more than just economic benefits to home schooling. It's very easy to teach young children. You don't have to worry about having a teaching degree. You simply need to apply the self discipline and diligence required to be a good parent. Nobody knows or loves your children more than you do. Teaching your children at home is a great way to build or strengthen family bonds. You'll be able to shape your children's lives much more favorably than school peer pressure.

You'll find that when you start teaching through the lower grades, you won't be intimidated as you naturally progress into higher grades, including high school. There's a wealth of material available from a number of sources to enable you to teach your children at home, so you don't have to "reinvent the wheel," so to speak.

Home schooling doesn't require all the driving needed to transport children to daycare and you to work. Thus, you realize instant savings on gas, car wear and tear, and, of course, time. Also, you won't have to worry about keeping up with public school activities or whether your local school has cut back on after school programs. In fact, think of the fun you could have getting together with other home schooling families to share in field trips and activities suited to your more flexible schedule.

I strongly recommend becoming a member of the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). At the very least take a look at their web site at http://www.hslda.org and get acquainted with their helpful resources, which includes a listing for support groups in each state. HSLDA can answer many questions for you or put you in touch with those in your area who can help. It's a great place to start, and I do indeed encourage you to do just that--start home schooling your children for your family's survival.