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This chapter addresses the common concern of athletic opportunities for home-schooled students, particularly in team sports. The authors challenge the notion that organized team sports are crucial for the average student's education, arguing that their importance is often overemphasized. They point out that professional sports careers are rare, and even in traditional schools, only a small percentage of students regularly participate in official teams.
Despite these reservations, the chapter provides numerous alternatives for home schoolers to engage in both team and individual sports. These options range from community leagues and youth organizations to private school teams and home-school support groups. The authors emphasize the importance of daily exercise and suggest focusing on general physical fitness and sports that can be practiced individually or in small groups.
The text outlines a more flexible approach to physical education, encouraging parents to ensure their children exercise regularly from kindergarten through high school. It suggests a variety of activities such as running, cycling, swimming, and martial arts, which can be learned through community centers, clubs, and private instruction. The authors also highlight the value of physical work, such as yard work and animal care, in contributing to physical education.
For high school students, the chapter recommends keeping a detailed log of physical activities to earn credits towards graduation requirements. This approach allows for a personalized physical education program that can accommodate the unique circumstances of home schooling while still meeting academic standards.
Overall, the chapter presents a balanced view of athletics in home schooling, acknowledging the challenges while offering practical solutions. It encourages parents and students to think creatively about physical education, focusing on lifelong fitness and the development of varied physical skills rather than solely on competitive team sports.