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10 Tools That Simplify Unschooling
My Approach to Family Learning
I usually write here as a programmer, but this time I want to share tips from our unschooling journey. I’ve found unschooling articles to be less common. Most people send their kids to school, fewer homeschool, and even fewer unschool. People often ask how we keep track of everything or feel a sense of accomplishment with unschooling. They wonder how we know if we are reaching our goals, and lots of similar questions. So, I decided to share the 10 tools I use to manage my unschooling experience. To clarify, my oldest is still 6 years old, but we are enjoying our journey.
1. Having a Rhythm
I can’t stress enough how crucial having a rhythm is for unschooling. No, it’s not a routine; it’s a rhythm. I’ve always had a rhythm, even before becoming a mother — a time to wake up, a time to sleep, and a general flow for the day. But with kids, it’s harder to go with the flow naturally. When I had a baby and a toddler, I researched a lot about finding the perfect rhythm for myself, and I discovered block scheduling explained by Jordan Page. While I’m not a big fan of everything she does, her block scheduling video has been a game-changer for me.
Having a rhythm helps put everything in its place. It’s more than just a schedule; it’s about creating a harmonious flow that aligns with our family values. For us, themes like “togetherness,” “slow living,” “time for boredom,” “showing our priorities,” and “time for siblings alone” are integral to our rhythm.
In our rhythm, we avoid distractions, primarily screen time such as mobiles and TV, to allow natural activities and interests to unfold. Quiet time is essential, teaching my kids the value of rest and giving them space to connect with each other. This quiet time fosters creativity and deeper connections between siblings. My rhythm also includes ample space for conversations, allowing the kids to ask as many questions as they want.
Our rhythm isn’t child-centered; it’s family-centered. We ensure there’s time for each family member to engage in their own pursuits while also prioritizing connection. This balance between individual activities and family time strengthens our bonds and supports each person’s growth. I believe a good rhythm is always a great start.
