In a few more weeks, Zoe will turn 5 years old. Wait, what? My baby is about to turn 5 years old? Time flies, huh?
Since I see lots of moms, asking why or how to homeschool because of the new normal we're going through. I decided to share my reasons why I unschool Zoe. If you're considering homeschooling, let me help you by asking you to answer these questions.
But first, what is unschooling?
Unschooling is informal learning that advocates learner-chosen activities as a primary means for learning. Unschooling students learn through their natural life experiences including play, household responsibilities, personal interests and curiosity, internships and work experience, travel, books, elective classes, family, mentors, and social interaction.
Unschooling encourages exploration of activities initiated by the children themselves, believing that the more personal learning is, the more meaningful, well-understood, and therefore useful it is to the child. While courses may occasionally be taken, unschooling questions the usefulness of standard curricula, conventional grading methods, and other features of traditional schooling in the education of each unique child.
3 Top Reasons Why Zoe is Unschool
1. I want Zoe to learn when she's ready to learn.
I want Zoe to learn when she's ready to learn. Because I trust her to lead her leaning. I stay out of the way and let her decide what interests her. By giving her the time, the space, the freedom from rules and structures most of the time.
I don't want her to experience the same childhood I had. I was pressured to always excel in class and my mental health was at stake.
That's why I want her to just be her. To enjoy her childhood. To enjoy life. And I let her decide. Because I trust her. Know what type of learner is your child here.
You see, every child is different. They learn at their own pace. So why put the pressure too early on them?
2. Character-Building than Academics
If you're a reader for a while now, you know that character-building is more important to me than academics. That's why I am always trying my best to be the best model for her. I know I am not a perfect mom but every day I grow and learn with her.
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As they say, we're our kids' first teachers. So let's set the best example for them. Let's establish a strong character foundation first as early as possible instead of pushing them to read early or count up to 100. Academics can wait until they are ready.
Character building starts at home, it is taught by us, parents, not by teachers.
3. Learning and life happen simultaneously.
The world is her classroom. Not until we had this pandemic! Learning and life happen simultaneously. She got lots of opportunities every day to learn.
Lifeskills also plays a big part in her learning and it matters to me as well.
So as early as 1 year old, I started teaching her life skills. Watch this video. Since I am a single mom, Zoe and I do almost everything together. I want her to learn many skills as early as possible. So she can take care of herself and be equipped when she faces the real world.
Now at 4 years old, I am amazed at how independent she is. I guess she's too mature for her age. She's always willing to help, she initiates to do chores and she's happy to the "work". Unlike me, she doesn't treat it as something difficult or complicated, as we adults do. She treats it as a way of life, as a fun activity, and as an interesting way to spend time. That's why at her young age she is self-sufficient already, she's creative and always curious. She got an entrepreneurial mind and a life long learner. I guess she's my opposite at times.
These are just my top 3 reasons why we unschool. So if you're planning to look into unschooling. I hope this article somewhat helped you. Homeschooling, in general, is not for everyone. You really need to know the reason why you want to get into it. For us, it is a lifestyle.
This year, I am currently looking into getting a homeschooling provider. Just so I have a guide. But nothing will change, Zoe will still the one who will lead her learning. I will just guide and support her all the way. There's really no right and wrong way of doing homeschooling. Do whatever works for your family. Research is the key!
If you have any unschooling or homeschooling related question. My dm is always open. Shoot me a message or just comment here. I'd be happy to help you.
My last advice for you mama is to lift everything up to Him. I've been praying a lot on what path should we take now that there are so many uncertainties. Thankfully, God heard me and send out some angels to help my way.
Good luck with whatever path you'll choose! Stay safe and healthy.
Love, Mommy Gen.
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