I think a book needs to be written about this very subject because this is one of those things that you don't hear homeschoolers talk about very often.
Homeschooling and the lifestyle can indeed very much improve your relationship with your children BUT it doesn't happen automatically. The reality and the truth of the matter is that there will be a period of adjustment for all of you. Being together all the time has the potential of bringing out the best in your relationship but also the worst. If you understand this and expect it from the get-go then you will be more prepared to handle it.
I have homeschooled my kids since Day One so for us the transition (if there was one) was very natural. I saw education as part of my parenting responsibilities and my kids accepted that because they didn't know any different. To them there was no difference in the roles. But when a child has already been in the school system they don't necessarily see it that way. Mom and Dad are "mom and dad" and they have their unique role. The teacher is the "teacher." Mom and dad are not teacher. Big difference. With patience, love, humor and understanding, however, mom and dad can indeed become "teacher" and it can bring family unity like nothing else will.
I will say this about us though... or rather about ME. The people who know me from this board know that I have said this many, many times before. Homeschooling has not been so much about teaching my kids how to read and write but more about ME... it's taught me to be a better parent. It hasn't been easy. It's not easy to see yourself in a mirror that comes in the form of your very own child. Homeschooling makes you your child's main role model simply because you are together a lot. When you notice that your children are acquiring your same character flaws because of that exposure, it can literally bring you to tears. Homeschooling has definitely forced me to mature and GROW UP in many aspects and I've had to confront myself on many levels.
Would I do it over again? In a heartbeat.
I love the family we are and I thoroughly enjoy being with my kids. We are close--very close.
Giovanna
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