Socialising for Unschoolers: From Parent of unschooled children

Myths

As a father of two unschooled children, I've witnessed firsthand the incredible opportunities for socialisation that arise in the uncharted territory of unschooling. Contrary to common misconceptions, unschooled children not only socialise but also thrive in diverse and meaningful ways, and it's crucial for parents to play an active role in fostering these connections.

Freedom

One of the primary advantages of unschooling is the freedom it provides in terms of scheduling. Parents, in their role as facilitators, have the responsibility to identify their children's interests and seek out opportunities for social engagement that align with those passions. Whether it's joining community events, participating in extracurricular activities, or simply exploring nature, parents can actively support their children in forging connections by taking them to forums and events that cater to their interests.

As guides

Community involvement plays a pivotal role in the social development of unschooled children. Parents can act as guides, helping their children navigate various community spaces. By encouraging participation in local events, clubs, and gatherings, parents provide opportunities for their children to interact with people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions. This active involvement not only enhances social skills but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.

Facilitator

Unschooling parents also play a crucial role in facilitating peer-to-peer learning. By recognising their children's strengths and interests, parents can connect them with like-minded peers, fostering collaborative learning experiences. Whether it's organising group activities or creating spaces for shared interests, parents become the architects of social networks that contribute to their children's growth and development.

In the digital age, parents can further expand the horizons of unschooled children by facilitating online connections. Identifying suitable platforms and communities that align with their children's interests allows parents to open doors to global friendships and collaborative opportunities. By actively participating in the online presence of their children, parents can ensure a safe and enriching virtual environment.

Active support:

The responsibility of parents in unschooling extends beyond merely providing opportunities; it involves recognising and nurturing their children's passions. By actively supporting and participating in their children's interests, parents create a foundation for meaningful social interactions. Unschooling parents become advocates for their children's social development, guiding them along unconventional paths that lead to well-rounded, socially adept, and resilient individuals.

Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves.

by Dale Carnegie

As parents we have to keep doing those small things as facilitator and the big ones, here in this context our children will bloom into a wonderful human being.