I spent 8 years as a 911 operator and fire / rescue dispatcher. I spent over 7 of those years as a 911 operator and dispatcher trainer. I was a good trainer. Easily one of the best in the center. And a big part of my success as a trainer came down to a decision … Continue reading “Filling the Toolbox”
Tag: Unschooling
Normal, like Storms
Big feelings are normal, but sometimes they can be completely inexplicable Cat and I were having a quiet morning, Cat had chosen to watch TV and I was getting some stuff done around the house. I had exactly zero solid plans for the day. Cat came over to where I was working and asked me … Continue reading “Normal, like Storms”
Volcanoes!
While studying education I was taught how important it is that we teach children ideas in a connected way. Children learn so much better when what their learning is connected to something they already know, and have been thinking about. Also, it’s best to connect ideas across the different areas of development. If you’re doing … Continue reading “Volcanoes!”
New Friends
We were vacationing in Orlando and Cat was needing some familiar food and unstructured play time. So I followed my GPS to the closest McDonald’s with a playground. When we walked inside, I immediately noticed that I was getting some strange looks. I glanced around and realized that we were the only people of our … Continue reading “New Friends”
Parenting on Purpose
Parenting is difficult. Teaching children is difficult. And our society makes it so much more difficult than it needs to be. Parents and caregivers use wildly different methods, philosophies, styles, and systems. Many of these parenting methods flatly oppose one another. It is not possible to make parenting or childcare choices that fit everyone’s … Continue reading “Parenting on Purpose”
Expecting Less, Getting More
Expectations are the enemy of parental happiness This is an idea I’ve come across in various places, and I find it to be absolutely true. Embracing the concept of unschooling has been a gradual process of letting go of any and all expectations I have about parenting in general, and education in particular. I still … Continue reading “Expecting Less, Getting More”
Red and Yellow make Pink
Cat has started to grasp the idea of colors mixing and creating new colors, and I’m starting to see it coming out in her play. It was raining outside today, with no thunder. Cat absolutely loves playing outside in the rain so out we went. Today’s investigations centered primarily around a squeeze bottle. I have … Continue reading “Red and Yellow make Pink”
Dirt Block Demolition
Today was a great day, and a nice little lesson for me in the immense value of following Cat’s lead. Nothing went as I expected in my head, and everything was awesome. The dog needed a walk, so out we went. I had exactly zero activity ideas in mind at this point. I asked Cat … Continue reading “Dirt Block Demolition”
Preschool Teacher to Unschooling Parent
I am an educator. I have been an educator in one way or another for as long as I can remember. My first ‘real’ job was working as a 911 operator and dispatcher. I became a training officer fairly quickly, and trained new employees almost nonstop. After 8 years I decided to leave in favor … Continue reading “Preschool Teacher to Unschooling Parent”