Homeschool- friends mother slandered homeschooling online as sheltered and posted a photo of my child
One of my boys made a friend (from public school) in a extra curricular class we enrolled him in. They get along nicely and his mom is nice or so I thought, I had befriended her on Facebook today of a photo of my son and her son in their playdate playing computer games the other day popped up on my feed. She is referring to my son as "some sheltered homeschool kid?" not sure what to make of that I think its a bit rude? And how is my son "sheltered" he does lots of stuff like field trips and woodworking and learning many lifeskills, he doesnt sit in a public school chair for 6 hours a day and he socializes more than they would. She didnt show his face, just his back, but maybe she was referring to him and not saying his name out of privacy? But how it was worded and implied was that my son is sheltered and finally had a friend 😑
I would reply under the comment. And explain that "my son who is featured in this photo is not sheltered"... and go on to explain about homeschooling w a link to the homeschool stats site, and ask her to take down the photo of your son and not take nor post photos of your son nor talk about him online again without your consent. And add that you understand those in the public schooled cesspool system likely wouldnt know any better, but communicating with the parent and asking questions is important both to learn facts and prior to doing something online where others kids are involved.
Something like that so shes called out publicly and others can see the comment too. But so its more educational than chastising.
I would talk with her after that and with the boys present (like over pizza) to educate them both for a couple minutes. Then based on that interaction, consider if you will not let your son be around them again/break the friendship, cuz the mom behavior shows real lack of care (and have concerns over what she might try to instill in your son about homeschool and causing problems with your families education decisions).
Best scenario is she would learn truth about homeschooling, (see that she just doesnt want to put effort into her childs good education by being involved), that she respects your homeschool decisions and doesnt talk like that online about your cgild anymore, but also asks permission to post photos of your minor son online [or doesnt any longer if you have a no photo policy]. If she does that then the kids could remain friends and your friendship might grow. You could influence her towards Christ as well. And radiate Christ.
