How Does Unschooling Impact The Mental Health Of Children?
While most children in the United States attend public school, various types of homeschooling appear to be growing in popularity. Some families choose to use the unschooling method, which generally involves allowing children to take the lead in their educational journeys by choosing to learn about the skills and hobbies in which they’re interested. Knowing the pros and cons associated with unschooling can be helpful for parents and caregivers when exploring this method. A licensed mental health professional may be able to provide further insight and guidance.
What is unschooling?
Unschooling is a subtype of homeschooling based on a philosophy focusing on children’s desires to learn and develop their hobbies. In general, children who are unschooled do not attend school, and they don’t follow any particular homeschool curriculum.
The term “unschooling” is thought to have been coined by John Holt in the 1970s. Parents with whom the policies or functions of traditional schools do not resonate might choose unschooling and self-directed education to give their children more control over the learning process instead of pushing them to excel in areas they don’t enjoy.
Unschooling can involve different techniques of self-directed learning, depending on each family and their unique dynamics. Often, families who unschool allow their children to take control of the subjects they want to learn and move at their own pace. Some families may offer their children various resources to learn certain skills, such as worksheets, books, and other materials. Others might take a less structured approach.
It can be common for unschooling families to frequently visit museums, libraries, and other educational locations where learning can occur. While unschooling traditionally does not follow a specific curriculum, some parents choose to stick to a curriculum for certain subjects to ensure their children don’t fall behind. There can be a misconception that unschooling requires no effort from parents, but it is generally intended to be a very active, engaged method of teaching and learning.
Controversy has arisen in response to this movement, and some are concerned that unschooling might lead to various consequences for children. For example, children might not learn to read or write on par with others in their age group. In addition, some children might experience isolation, which can lead to difficulty socializing and making friends.
Why do parents choose to unschool their children?
Parents may choose to unschool their children because they believe it is safer or more effective, or because it allows their children to express their individuality.
The uptick in school shootings and violent crimes in public schools seems to have contributed to an increased number of families choosing to homeschool their children. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, “From 2000 through 2022, there were 328 casualties (131 killed and 197 wounded) in active shooter incidents at elementary and secondary schools.” The risk of children witnessing or being impacted by active shooter incidents may have led some families to opt for homeschooling rather than traditional schooling.
Other reasons people might choose unschooling and child-led learning could include the following:
- Fostering independence in children
- Helping children develop trade skills
- Reducing the risk of bullying, school incidents, and bias
- Focusing on children’s innate skills instead of the skills often prioritized in traditional schools
- Giving children more time to learn about various subjects
- Enabling children to develop self-confidence
- Allowing children to learn from failure and providing opportunities for growth
- Moving away from grades and traditional ideas of intelligence and focusing more on each child’s aptitudes and skills
- Showing children they are as important as adults
- Allowing children to research, explore, and become curious about life naturally
- Allowing children more time to engage in hobbies and rest
The mental health impacts of unschooling on children
There can be advantages and disadvantages to homeschooling and unschooling children. Every family tends to take a slightly different approach with varying results. Whether a family unschools their child is a personal choice, but understanding the potential effects on mental health can help parents make a more positive impact on their children.
More time in natural environments
Children schooled from home may spend more time in natural environments, such as their backyards, parks, and hiking trails. Parents might take their children on hikes, go swimming, or explore other environments to learn more about the natural world. This hands-on, experiential approach may be beneficial as opposed to learning scientific concepts in the classroom without seeing them in action. Studies show that spending time in nature can improve mental health, so these practices may be helpful for children.
Reduced pressure
Schools can put significant pressure on students to achieve high grades, which can lead to stress and burnout in some cases. Students in traditional schools may begin to associate their self-worth with their academic performance. Unschooling can allow children to learn at their own pace and choose what they want to explore, potentially promoting higher self-esteem and a stronger sense of self-worth.
Social isolation
Some unschooled children may spend most of their time at home with their families, and they might not have many chances to socialize with others their age. Socialization tends to be essential for proper child development, and some unschooled children might struggle to learn social skills, which could lead to loneliness in adult life.
Parents can ensure their unschooled children have opportunities for socialization by joining an unschooling group, enrolling their children in clubs, and signing them up for various extracurricular activities in the community, such as team sports.
Difficulty catching up to peers
Unschooled children might struggle to adapt to skills at the same level as their peers. If some children do not learn skills like reading and writing, they might struggle in post-secondary education or career settings. In addition, bullying may occur when unschooled children interact with peers who attended traditional school, as they might not know as much about certain subjects. Bullying can have harmful mental health impacts.
A lack of preparedness for the career world
More time with loved ones
A potential positive impact of unschooling is the time children can spend with their families. Unschooling families may spend more quality time together engaging in various activities. Extra attention from parents may also reduce the sense of pressure that can arise with traditional schooling.
Increased self-esteem and confidence
Unschooled children may develop increased self-esteem as they are typically encouraged to be themselves and enjoy their hobbies. They may also be more confident in making choices for themselves and speaking up when they believe a situation is unjust. Some children in this schooling environment might develop enhanced creative skills, like creating art, playing music, or writing.
Choosing the parenting style that works best for you
Every parent in the United States generally has the right to choose how they’d like their children to be educated. Homeschooling and unschooling can be beneficial, depending on the methods used. When choosing the technique you want to use, consider your child’s personality and the pros and cons. Many of the potential disadvantages of unschooling can be remedied with changes to your approach and the child’s environment.
How to support your children in confronting mental health challenges
Noticing signs of mental health challenges in your children can be concerning. If you see symptoms of social isolation, depression, anxiety, or stress, you might be unsure how to help. Below are some ways you may promote good mental health while unschooling:
- Ensure your child frequently spends time outside of the home
- Find ways for your child to make friends, such as attending clubs and social activities
- Find other unschooling families with whom to communicate and collaborate
- Check in with your child about whether they enjoy or want to do unschooling (some children may prefer attending public school)
- Ask how you can help
- Be present and validate your child’s emotions when they express them
- Practice emotional regulation skills with your child, such as meditation and mindfulness
- Consider bringing your child to a mental health provider if they seem to be struggling
If your child is experiencing adverse mental health symptoms, take them seriously. A mental health professional can help your child cope and develop healthy ways to move forward. If your child does not enjoy unschooling, you might choose to develop methods that better suit their personality and desires. Although parenting is your choice, involving your child in the process can make the transition easier for all.
Mental health support for unschooling parents and teens
If you or your child are experiencing mental health challenges, you’re not alone. Talking to a therapist may be helpful in learning more about effective parenting techniques and promoting good mental health in children. However, some parents might not seek therapy due to barriers like time, finances, or distance. In these cases, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp for adults or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19 may be more accessible.
Online platforms allow individuals to talk to a therapist from home or any comfortable location with an internet connection. In addition, sessions can be held anytime via phone, video, or live chat.
Studies suggest that online therapy can be helpful for parents, as it can teach them emotional regulation skills and help them effectively support their children.
Takeaway
- Previous Article
- Next Article