Cons of Unschooling

Unschooling is an educational method and philosophy that advocates learner-chosen activities as a primary means for learning.

Below are some cons of unschooling:

Missing Puzzle Pieces: Because children choose which subjects to study, there will likely be information gaps in their education. This is true to some degree of any style of education, but it can be more noticeable with unschooling. Because the children learn to motivate and direct themselves, however, they are typically able to fill in these gaps themselves if and when they need to.

It Takes a Great Deal of Parental Commitment: Unschooling is not the same thing as liberal neglect. Parents must be highly involved in and aware of their children’s growth, and must be able to provide resources and opportunities when interests and needs change. This schooling style requires a great deal of attentiveness, spontaneity, and focus, and is not a perfect fit for every parent’s personality or circumstances.

Kids Must Motivate Themselves: Some children prosper in a structured environment, and don’t respond well to the pressure of having to make all their own educational choices.

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