New technology is also driving the increase in home-schooling. Sophisticated software is now available which evaluates how much a child knows on a subject, designs lessons to fit the child's needs, and tests how well the lessons are learned. It gives family members an opportunity to spend more time together. Sometimes parents disagree with the educational philosophy of the public school system. Home-school advocates might argue that sending children to school does not guarantee the desired social opportunities and outcomes and that the home can protect the child from negative influences.
Parents serve as role models in the area of socialization.
Many home-school parents belong to cooperatives which provide moral support and information and often opportunities for children to study together, go on field trips, or take informal classes. Home-schooling requires the presence of one parent in the home, eliminating a second income. Expenses may include curriculum, support services, resource materials, field trips, equipment, etc. Library services can be used to reduce resource material costs. Laws regarding home-schooling vary from state to state, thus it is essential to contact state and local education agencies to determine legal requirements.