At the recent UEFA Fair, I had the pleasure of speaking with many enthusiastic parents who were eager to begin their homeschooling journey. While their excitement was palpable, a common theme emerged: uncertainty about where to start. My advice to them was clear—begin with deschooling. This crucial step can make the transition from traditional schooling to homeschooling smoother and more effective.
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Why Deschooling Matters
1. Adjusting to a New Rhythm: Traditional schooling often follows a strict schedule and regimented structure, which can be very different from the flexible and personalized approach of homeschooling. Deschooling helps families adjust to a new daily rhythm that works for them.
2. Breaking Away from Traditional Mindsets: Both children and parents need time to shed the preconceived notions about education that are often ingrained by traditional schooling. This period allows them to embrace a more holistic view of learning.
3. Reconnecting as a Family: Deschooling provides an opportunity to strengthen family bonds. Parents and children can spend quality time together, exploring interests and passions without the pressure of formal education.
4. Identifying Learning Styles: Every child learns differently. Deschooling helps parents observe and understand their child's unique learning style, which can inform the homeschooling approach they ultimately choose.
A True Story: A Day in the Life of Deschooling
Donna Goff, a seasoned homeschooler and the founder of Mentoring Our Own, shares her insights on deschooling. She describes how her family embraced this period to build a strong foundation for their homeschooling journey. Here’s a snapshot of what their typical deschooling day looked like:
Family Devotions: They began their day with family devotions, focusing on discerning right from wrong and nurturing their hearts.
Mealtime Traditions: Meals were a time to nourish not just bodies but also hearts and relationships.
Read-Aloud Sessions: Donna read to her children, sparking their imaginations and fostering a love for stories.
Life Skills and Family Work: They worked together on household tasks, from meal prep to gardening, instilling a sense of responsibility and teamwork.
Leisure and Outdoor Time: The family valued time spent outdoors and unstructured leisure time, allowing children to explore and be creative without screens.
How to Deschool: Practical Tips
1. Take a Break from Formal Education: Start by taking a complete break from formal education. This doesn't mean a vacation, but rather a shift from structured learning to a more relaxed and natural exploration of interests.
2. Engage in Interest-Led Activities: Encourage your children to pursue hobbies and activities they are passionate about. This could be anything from gardening and cooking to reading and crafting.
3. Spend Time Outdoors: Nature is a fantastic teacher. Spend time outdoors exploring parks, hiking trails, or even your backyard. Observation and interaction with the natural world can spark curiosity and learning.
4. Foster Open Conversations: Use this time to talk with your children about their likes, dislikes, and learning experiences. Open dialogues help in understanding their needs and interests better.
5. Read Together: Reading is a great way to learn and bond. Choose a variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and educational materials that cater to your child’s interests.
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Knowing When You're Ready to Homeschool
Deschooling duration varies for each family, typically lasting a month for each year the child spent in traditional school. You’ll know you’re ready to begin homeschooling when:
- Your Child Shows Renewed Interest in Learning: If your child begins to naturally gravitate towards learning activities and asks questions, it’s a good sign they are ready.
- You Understand Your Child’s Learning Style: When you have a clear sense of how your child learns best—be it visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or a mix—you’re better prepared to start homeschooling.
- Family Routine Stabilizes: Once your family settles into a new, comfortable daily routine that balances learning, play, and rest, you’re likely ready to transition to more structured homeschooling.
Deschooling is a vital step in the homeschooling journey. It provides the necessary transition period to adjust, rediscover, and rekindle the love for learning in a relaxed and supportive environment. Embrace this time, and you’ll lay a strong foundation for a successful and enriching homeschooling experience.
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