Your style fits well with an

"Unschooling" approach to homeschool.   

shutterstock_137694665.jpg

 "Unschooling" is sometimes referred to as "natural learning" or "self directed learning."  The philosophy is based on the idea that a child will learn what he needs to know on his own as the need arises or as his interest directs him.  When a child shows interest in learning a certain topic or skill, the parent makes the resources available for him to learn.  A parent fills the role of a facilitator as the child leads with his interests.

     John Holt, a 20th century educator believed that a child has an innate desire to learn.  In his book, Teach your Own, he wrote, "What children need is not new and better curricula but access to more and more of the real world; plenty of time and space to think over their experiences, and to use fantasy and play to make meaning out of them. and advice, road maps, guidebooks, to make it easier for them to get where they want to go (not where we think they out to go), and to find out what they want to find out."  Many "Unschoolers" have based their philosophies on the ideas and teachings in his book as well as a few others listed below.  

The term "Unschooling" is also used loosely to refer to a less structured, child lead, learning style that allows children to pursue their own interests with parental support. 

 

Strengths of an "Unschooling" approach: 

  • Requires little to no planning.
  • Fosters a love of learning.
  • Capitalizes on life's teachable moments. 
  • Children are less likely to burn out or be academically frustrated.  
  • Works well for a child who has strong interests and is self motivated.  
  • Provides children with plenty of time and space to discover things on their own. 

Potential weaknesses for the "Unschooling" approach: 

  • Can be hard to evaluate, monitor and record progress.
  • There is no clear scope and sequence so there is potential for education gaps.  
  • Is very child centered. 
  • May be difficult for families with multiple children.  
  • Places a lot of responsibility on the child who may not be as motivated as the parent would like. 

 

 

Resources for the "Unschooling" approach.