Our family is approaching this same decision. I found this quote from user what helpful
there is a difference between "encouraging your child to learn about religion if they're interested in it" and allowing a religious institution time alone with your child on a regular basis.
I suggest teaching your child that:
- No human is perfect
- Anyone can make mistakes
- Anyone may have been misled, and as a result, may mislead others
- It is always ok to change your mind about what you believe in light of new facts. Point out that even religions of faith do this.
- Everyone has some amount of doubt in the things that they believe, a lot or little.
- For some things, like the nature of God, no proof is possible. Yet, the human ability to have a strong belief in something, regardless of proof has always been a major factor in human achievement. From unparalleled advancements in construction due to religious monument building, to scientific discovery and invention caused by a culture of persistent faith in the scientific method, society excels when belief is fostered and encouraged.
- Conversely, suffering is the result of belief being forced onto people.
This should make indoctrination a little harder to achieve in your child. Then I would let him continue to attend the Catholic lessons if he wants, but also require at least a cursory investigation into at least 2 other belief structures(of his choice) that are neither Christian or Agnostic/Athiest.