Deschooling vs Unschooling: What’s the Difference

Description

Considering home education but overwhelmed by where to start? This comprehensive guide breaks down two important concepts that can transform your family’s relationship with learning: deschooling and unschooling.

What You’ll Learn: Understand the crucial difference between deschooling (the transition period after leaving school) and unschooling (a long-term child-led learning philosophy). Discover why both matter, especially for neurodivergent children recovering from school-related burnout or anxiety.

Includes a Complete 6-Week Summer Plan: Use your summer break to gently deschool your family with our week-by-week activity suggestions. Each week focuses on a different theme—from “Pause and Play” to “Connect and Reflect”—with practical activities that encourage rest, reconnection, and natural learning.

Special Focus on Neurodivergent Children: This guide recognizes that many children need time to recover from the demands of formal education. Learn how deschooling can provide space for sensory regulation, flexible routines, and autonomy over learning pace—all essential for neurodivergent wellbeing.

Parent Mindset Support: Deschooling isn’t just for children—it’s also for parents. Each week includes “Parent Pointers” to help you notice, reflect, and shift away from school-based thinking. We also provide practical mindset reframes to help you let go of “should” and embrace what your child actually needs.

Bonus Resources: The guide concludes with carefully selected book recommendations from experts like John Holt, Ross Mountney, and Naomi Fricker to deepen your understanding of alternative education approaches.

Whether you’re testing the waters of home education or fully committed to a child-led approach, this guide offers the framework and confidence you need to start your journey well.