Welcome, fellow parents, educators, and curious minds! Today, we’re diving headfirst into the wacky world of unschooling – that wild and wonderful educational approach that often leaves folks scratching their heads in confusion. And leaning their heads in judgemental stares. But fear not, because I’m here to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding unschooling with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of reality…Read More
**Myth #1: Unschooling means chaos reigns supreme**
Let’s kick things off with a myth that hits close to home for many unschooling families – the idea that our homes resemble scenes from a tornado movie. Picture this: your child running amok, books flying off the shelves, and parents desperately trying to maintain some semblance of order. But here’s the truth – chaos is part of life, whether you’re unschooling or not. Sure, there are moments when our living room looks like an unknown project exploded, but that’s just a normal day in the life of an unschooling family. There are still days when I have to chant to myself that “messes are a part of learning”. I inserted a pic at the bottom of a mild “project day” for your enjoyment. Remember no sideways judging looks people!
**Myth #2: Unschooling means kids never learn anything**
Ah, the age-old question that every unschooling parent has heard a million times – “But how will they learn anything?!” It’s as if people think our kids spend all day lounging on the couch, watching Youtube and playing Minecraft (okay, maybe sometimes they do, but don’t judge!). The truth is, kids are natural learners, and they’re constantly absorbing information from the world around them. Whether they’re building forts in the backyard, baking cookies in the kitchen, or reading comic books on the couch, learning is happening – and it’s happening in a way that’s meaningful to them. Our son would not read until after he had been playing Minecraft on his own. Who needs textbooks when you have the internet?
**Myth #3: Unschooling means kids won’t be prepared for the real world**
Ah, the dreaded “But what about socialization?!” question that every unschooling parent has heard a million times. It’s as if people think our kids are destined to become socially awkward hermits who never leave the house (okay, maybe sometimes they do, but that’s beside the point!). The truth is, unschooling provides ample opportunities for socialization – from meet-ups at the park to programs at the library. And let’s not forget about the valuable life skills our kids learn through unschooling – like problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-motivation. Trust me, they’ll be more than prepared for whatever the real world throws their way. Never doubt the ability of an unschooler to debate to make their point. Some unschoolers I know sound like they went to law school already!
**Conclusion**
And there you have it – a brief venture into some of the most common myths surrounding unschoolers today, from the heart of an unschooling mom who’s there and still has the patience to tell the tale. So the next time someone raises an eyebrow at your choice to unschool, just smile – because you know the truth and your child(ren). Happy unschooling, my friends!
just a small version of our self led learning “mess”