Framework for Unschooling
Based on our own learning experiences and our background in educational work, we have some core beliefs about how people learn and develop. These fundamental beliefs inform our framework to homeschooling/unschooling.
Every moment matters.
Every moment matters because each subsequent stage of life will be experienced through the lens of the previous experiences. People are influenced by their “nature, nurture, and neighborhood”, meaning that the inborn characteristics of a child are shaped by parenting and the developmental context. For this reason, the early years of life are incredibly impactful on the overall formation of the child.
Learning happens independently of, and often in spite of, teaching.
While the value of a good coach, mentor, sage, or teacher can be worth their weight in gold, direct-instruction is not necessary for most learning. A skillful learner has a sense of entitlement for knowledge and understanding, and as a result, will seek resources and people to unlock the unknown.
Children grow and learn in rich environments.
Akin to gardening (ref: Alison Gopnik), the adult strives to provide life experiences that allow the child to develop and flourish. In younger years, the adult requires learning of certain domains of knowledge i.e. reading, writing, arithmetic, etc., with the intent of providing tools and knowledge to open the world wide for the child. In later years, once foundations are established, the child has more freedom to pursue particular interests, within appropriate bounds.
Lead with student interest but offer inspiration.
Ownership and agency of the learning must be kept with the child to the greatest extent possible. This means minimizing any coercive learning as is often found in traditional school settings. The confidence in oneself as a learner motivates a child to learn outside of her comfort zone. Particularly at young ages, the burden may rest on the adult to provide ideas and inspiration for learning pursuits, rather than relying solely on the ideas of a child, because the child is limited in knowing what is possible to pursue.
Learning happens when a child feels safe and secure, and has trust with the teacher.
Particularly at the young ages, the child relies heavily on the adult to provide guidance for learning. While learning is a natural process, good learning is uncomfortable. A child must trust the adult when she is pushed. The child must feel cared for and safe to take intellectual risks, which are necessary for growth.
We love and know our children better than anyone else.
Even the best teacher or school, will always fall short of the parents. We know our children and are more invested in them than any other person. For this reason, we believe we are the most qualified to shape them towards their future.