undoubtedly programming is more engaging to work on than solving arithmetic problems in long division. there is relatively little utility in learning arithmeti

undoubtedly programming is more engaging to work on than solving arithmetic problems in long division. there is relatively little utility in learning arithmetic by rote and its not surprising that your son doesn't want to do it. however, as I'm sure you know, rote arithmetic problems are present on state exams and your son will need to be able to do it in order for his home schooling (which is great, congratulations to you) to be officially recognized. there's a certain point at which the learning process stops being about gaining knowledge and skills, and starts becoming more about learning how to conform to institutional requirements. this sucks. it sucks real bad. you already know this though, which is probably one of the reasons why you chose to home school. unfortunately sucking it up and learning how to play ball with the institutions of our society is actually a really important thing, painful and boring as it is. long division by rote is some kind of proxy for this. better get started with building up your son's tolerance for annoying shit.