What if education wasn’t confined to classrooms but instead flourished naturally through life’s experiences?

In this episode of Ladies Fixing the World, renowned unschooling pioneers Sandra Dodd and Sue Elvis join Cecilie Conrad to redefine what learning can look like. We explore the philosophy and practicalities of unschooling—where curiosity, trust, and relationships replace rigid curricula.

Sandra shares her journey to define unschooling, describing it as "creating and maintaining an atmosphere where natural learning can flourish." Sue emphasizes the importance of embracing time with children, noting, "We can't go back and reclaim those hours as our kids grow up."

The conversation highlights:

• How unschooling fosters curiosity and resilience.
• The critical balance between freedom and guidance.
• The transformative impact of unschooling on both children and parents.

Through personal stories, we showcase unschooling as a lifestyle that prioritizes connection, flexibility, and natural growth—education as a joyful byproduct of living fully.

Quotes from the Episode:

• Sandra Dodd: “Unschooling is creating and maintaining an atmosphere where natural learning can flourish.”
• Sue Elvis: “We can’t go back and reclaim all those hours if we don’t take advantage of them as our kids are growing up.”
• Cecilie Conrad: “Learning is a byproduct of living with enthusiasm and curiosity.”

Links & Resources:

• Sandra Dodd’s Website: SandraDodd.com – Explore Sandra’s favorite unschooling definitions and in-depth discussions.
• Sue Elvis’ Blog: Stories of an Unschooling Family – Practical advice and insights into Sue’s unschooling journey.
• Cecilie Conrad’s Website: CecilieConrad.com – Learn about Cecilie’s experiences with unschooling, worldschooling, and a life of freedom and curiosity.

Sandra Dodds specific links for this episode

• Definitions of Unschooling
  https://sandradodd.com/unschool/definition
• What is Unschooling?
  https://sandradodd.com/definitions
• Origin of the term "Unschooling"
  https://sandradodd.com/unschool/theterm
• Is unschooling too big a gamble
  https://justaddlightandstir.blogspot.com/2011/01/is-unschooling-too-big-gamble.html

Recorded: November 6, 2024, Krakow, Poland

This episode delves into the responsibilities of unschooling, contrasts it with traditional schooling, and celebrates the freedom it offers. Whether you’re curious about alternative education or looking for inspiration to rethink your approach, this conversation invites you to imagine a learning journey led by love, trust, and curiosity.

Support the show

In season 3 of Ladies Fixing the World, host Cecilie Conrad is joined by longtime unschooling voices Sandra Dodd and Sue Elvis to explore unschooling as a lifestyle.