Q: You write in your book that you appreciate your parents for taking a personal investment in your education.  Have you always felt that way? Why?
TT: There were times I wondered what regular school would be like, and some days I even wanted to go, but there were so many things to be grateful for – that my schedule was flexible, that I could study things that I found fascinating, that I had the flexibility to go on missions trips. I didn’t appreciate this every day, I’m sure, but it’s easy to see looking back.

Q: Your parents were pioneers in homeschooling. What misunderstandings about it did your family have to overcome?
TT: That they were crazy, weird, and that homeschooling was illegal!

Q: What do you want homeschool parents to understand about what it feels like to be a homeschool kid?
TT: Put yourself in your child’s shoes. It’s not always easy not being with your friends or not being part of a group. Be sympathetic and at the same time encouraging. Help them develop their social life by getting them involved in sports, art, music, or even co-op communities. Don’t bottle them up at home.

Q: Is there a particular experience in homeschooling that helped shaped who you’ve become?
TT: There were so many. My mother was amazing at making learning fun. While I struggled to read being dyslexic, she would have me read Sports Illustrated for kids or have me research the benefits of protein, things I enjoyed learning about. She taught me that even though things may be hard, you can always find joy and even fun in them.

Homeschool Student: What was the hardest aspect of homeschooling for you?
TT: Probably wondering at times what I was missing out on.

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