🕊️ Following Their Lead
Finding Learning in the Everyday 🧺
One of my favourite things about unschooling is how naturally learning unfolds when we slow down enough to notice it. It’s less about planning lessons and more about being open — to the questions, curiosities, and little invitations that show up throughout the day.
Watching Each Other 🧸
This morning we had a cousin over to play, and as I watched them together, I realized just how much learning happens when we step back. They were teaching each other constantly — through conversation, play, observation, and imitation. There were lessons in social interaction, communication, problem solving, and even empathy, all woven naturally into their morning together.
Following Curiosity 🖍️
Later, while I was cutting a piece of tape, my toddler wanted to grab the scissors from my hands. Instead of correcting him or saying “no,” I paused and looked for the reason behind his action — curiosity. So I gave him his toddler safety scissors, showed him how to cut a piece of paper, and then let him explore. When he was done, he simply said “all done,” and that was enough. His interest had come and gone, and that’s okay. Our job isn’t to force learning but to recognize when it’s happening — and when it’s time to rest.
Unplanned Learning ✨
In the afternoon, he found our aprons and wanted to bake. It wasn’t in my plan for the day, but I reminded myself that these unplanned moments are often where the richest learning happens. Baking together offers lessons in math, science, fine motor skills, and — most importantly — connection. He helped mix the batter, and in doing so, learned something about cause and effect, rhythm, and the joy of creating together.
And while my baby is still too little to bake, she found her own way to join in. When it was time to empty the dishwasher, she carefully handed me each fork and spoon, one by one. It was such a simple act, but for her, it was full of learning — practicing fine motor skills, coordination, and the beginnings of helping and working together.
Trust the Process 🌱
A big part of unschooling is meeting your child where they are, honoring their pace, and letting them be the leaders of their own learning. It’s important to remember that children have a natural desire to watch us, imitate us, and learn from the ways we move through the world. When we step back and allow them to guide the way, we create space for curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Following our children’s lead means trusting that learning is everywhere — in play, in conversation, in curiosity, and in the quiet flow of daily life.
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