Just living and learning
Now that my eldest two children are 18 and 16, they are grappling with all the myriad choices available to them as they move out into the world. And, as ideas about courses, journeys and careers are discussed, I’m struck by how endlessly interesting this phase of life is. I love to hear about all... Continue Reading →
“Is this enough?” Who hasn't asked that question? Perhaps triggered by a house that seems just a bit too quiet, by not seeing any friends for a couple of days, by a child saying they're bored, or just the feeling that maybe you could all do with a little more adventure. There's nothing wrong with... Continue Reading →
Something I've noticed over the years is that even when other adults can appreciate the depth of a self-directed child's learning, they can rarely hold back their questions about how the child will turn this learning into something demonstrable, i.e. an exam score or a job. It is extremely hard for them to separate the... Continue Reading →
Our society celebrates compliant children. Every parent knows this, particularly if their own child doesn't rate compliance highly (and I speak from experience). Despite their best efforts, these parents are likely to have felt the critical gaze of people who thought their child was being disrespectful or "naughty". Even the most generous among us can... Continue Reading →
A parent recently asked me what kind of online resources I would suggest they get for their 11-year old son. Their child has been out of school for only a few weeks and, in the spirit of embracing self-directed learning, they are keen to make sure he has everything he needs to stay engaged. I... Continue Reading →
There’s often a turning point for families who have a child who could be considered neurodivergent. It usually happens when they move beyond the family nest and into wider society. It may happen at a play group or nursery, or perhaps a little later, when infant school begins. Until this time, traits and behaviours, that... Continue Reading →
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