Hi friends,

I've been getting private emails asking me about unschooling along with being in a few unschooling groups where these same questions come up so I thought I'd share a recent post with you all.  Whether you homeschool or unschool, I believe the most important point is to 'see what your kids are gaining from the experience and not on what you think they are missing.'  So many parents are finding their children ever so sad in the 'school system'.  I would like to encourage those parents that there truly is a better way. 

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Most of all though, my daughter lives life with me, shopping, cooking, taking care of the house, helping with little ones, volunteering at church, talking loving and laughing. She is learning and happy and we are closer than ever. When you make the leap into home schooling, I think it is important to see what your kids are gaining from the experience and not on what you think they are missing.
 
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The above statement makes very good points.  Learning happens everywhere.  If you run a business, share that knowledge of HOW to run a business.  I don't mean in a 'schooly' way but as something you do and openly share should your child have an interest to see what you are doing.  My parents owned a skating rink when I was growing up.  I could run the business by the time I was a teenager.  I knew our vendors, clients, bookkeeping, policies, could sell skates, make schedules, book parties, etc.  It gave me a great sense of just what is involved in running a business.  Shoot, by the time I was an older teen and driving, I could even make the bank deposits! 
 
My spouse is an engineer, mechanic, firefighter, EMT, welder, horse trainer, scuba diver, pilot, ....and the list could go on.  He shares all his knowledge with the kids.  My oldest daughter (18) speaks four languages, welds, dances, is a certified Firefighter/EMT now, and is thinking about becoming a doctor.  We have never discouraged her.  She is incredibly smart.  Our second daughter (16) is now in college and loving it.  Our youngest will talk physics to you for hours on hours if you allow him to. 
 
Life is short.  Run with it.  You will be amazed at just how much curious minds want to know.   Remember to relax.  If your child has been in the 'school system' it will take them time to find thier own footing in the unschooling freedom so start simply by saying yes more and no less.  One day at a time.
 
Peace and Laughter!
Vicki