You're not answering their question.
Polite, casual, social interaction among moms at the park while children play does not require an informative reply which thoroughly answers a question posed. In this context, a question posed may be a sign of goodwill and attention, indicating that the listener thought the topic may be one upon which the speaker would like to expound. If not wishing to expound, but wishing the conversation to continue, the recipient of the question may guide the conversation in another direction. To use a volleyball analogy, keeping the ball in play without spiking it over the net aggressively.
They didn't ask whether you thought your child was special. They asked why you made the decision to homeschool.
In seeking a softer answer than the modest and open-ended "
DD learns a bit differently", the OP shows sensitivity to the negative energy which can be inadvertently generated when parents mention children who are gifted or ahead of academic/developmental norms.
IMO, this modest and open-ended reply about a child's learning style is not the same as saying the
kid is different or wearing a t-shirt which denigrates the local public schools or the children who attend there.
A parent is the expert in regard to their own child.
These are great ideas
:
... you enjoy being able to go at your daughter's pace, and it's something that is working for your family so far?
... she seems to be making great progress in the home environment and it's something that you are happy to do, so you're going to do it as long as it works?
... she's very self-directed and so you'd like to see her continue to develop that for now, since you have the opportunity.
... There are a lot of different reasons but ultimately it seemed like something that would work for our family.
That being said, the kiddo is only 4 so possibly a mention of enjoying museums, projects, etc...? These are things which a playground group may someday decide to meet up together for on a rainy day...?
