In the latest episode of The Radiant Mission podcast, we are joined by Leah McDermott, a former master educator who has now become a passionate advocate for unschooling. Leah’s journey from being in the public school system to embracing and promoting unschooling offers a compelling narrative that questions traditional education methods. As we delve into her story, we uncover the emotional and psychological hurdles of making such a significant shift and explore the numerous benefits of allowing children the freedom to explore their interests and passions.
Public School, Homeschooling, & Unschooling
Leah’s journey began in a rigid homeschooling environment, which mirrored the structured public school system she later found herself part of. This experience planted the seeds of doubt in her mind about conventional education. Over the years, as she progressed through her career in the public education system, Leah began to notice a disturbing trend: children’s natural curiosity and creativity seemed to diminish as they moved through the grades. This observation became a pivotal moment for Leah, leading her to rethink her approach to education.
The birth of her first child was a transformative experience for Leah. It made her realize that she could not, in good conscience, support a system she fundamentally disagreed with. This realization set her on a path to explore homeschooling and eventually unschooling as viable alternatives. Leah’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting children to guide their own learning journeys.
Transitioning to Homeschooling & Unschooling
One of the major themes discussed in the podcast is the transition from traditional education to homeschooling and unschooling. Leah highlights the creation of Bridge Academy, a private school designed to help parents navigate the complexities of homeschooling. The societal pressure to conform to conventional schooling is immense, and Leah emphasizes the importance of de-schooling for both parents and children. This process involves unlearning the ingrained beliefs about education and embracing a more fluid, personalized approach to learning.
Leah also delves into the emotional and psychological challenges of adopting an unschooling approach. She shares valuable insights into recognizing and nurturing each child’s unique learning journey. Overcoming fears and comparisons is crucial in the pursuit of alternative education paths. Leah’s experiences provide a roadmap for parents who are considering making this significant shift.
The Benefits of Unschooling
As we rethink societal expectations around education and future careers, Leah passionately argues for the importance of creative and adaptable skill sets. In an era of advancing AI and automation, traditional academic achievements may no longer be sufficient. By allowing children the freedom to explore their interests, we can help them become self-assured and motivated individuals. Leah’s personal anecdotes, including her son’s journey from exploring various hobbies to discovering a passion for nature, illustrate the profound benefits of unschooling.
Leah’s story also touches on the importance of viewing children as curious, capable, and creative individuals. Unschooling encourages parents to provide opportunities, experiences, and safe spaces for their children to discover their passions at their own pace. This approach fosters a lifelong love of learning and teaches children to advocate for themselves while embracing their individuality.
One of the key insights Leah shares is the difference between children who have been unschooled and those who have gone through the public school system. Her observations reveal that unschooled children tend to be more engaged, curious, and confident in their abilities. This stark contrast underscores the potential of unschooling to create a more fulfilling and enriching educational experience.
Freedom in Education
Leah also discusses the impact of the pandemic on education and work systems. The inefficiencies and redundancies exposed during this time have prompted many to reconsider the traditional models of schooling and employment. The shift towards remote work and flexible schedules has opened up new possibilities for homeschooling and unschooling, making these options more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
As Leah navigates the challenges and rewards of unschooling, she emphasizes the importance of supporting children’s curiosity and creativity. By giving children the freedom to experiment and discover their true interests, we can help them refine their passions and make informed decisions about their future, including potential career paths and educational needs.
In conclusion, Leah McDermott’s journey from a public school teacher to a radical unschooling advocate offers valuable insights into the transformative power of alternative education. Her story is a call to support children’s natural curiosity and creativity, ultimately empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures. This episode of the Radiant Mission podcast is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in rethinking education and fostering a love of learning in children.
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 106
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Guest: Leah McDermott @yournaturallearner
Thank you for listening to The Radiant Mission podcast! We are on a mission to encourage and inspire you on your walk with Christ and as you journey through life.
In Episode 106 we learn about natural learning and unschooling with Leah McDermott, founder of Your Natural Learner and Bridge Academy
Bible Verses Mentioned:
- Isaiah 41:10
Resources:
- Visit Your Natural Learner’s Website
- Follow Your Natural Learner on Instagram
- Learn more about Bridge Academy here
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