Tuning In

When you approach things from an unschooling perspective you’re used to tuning in—listening to what interests your children and what they want to explore. But you also start to tune into the world more yourself.

When I discover something new it seems to be suddenly all around me; like when I learn a new word and I start to see that word everywhere. What was hidden becomes almost ubiquitous.

My eldest is interested in architecture and, regardless of where that interest has come from, she’s becoming more attuned to its presence. I have too: I’m seeing articles, photography, exhibitions, things in my Twitter feed; all related to architecture.

Experience (and logic) tells me that this sudden appearance isn’t really an appearance at all. I know it’s nothing more than me tuning in to what’s already there; I’m naturally, unconsciously paying more attention. Taking an interest in what fascinates my daughter becomes a general interest in the same thing. I learn through her and because of her.

It’s a valuable lesson for learning: it’s good to actively seek things out—create opportunities—but often it isn’t about the hard work of finding as much as it is the relaxed state of being receptive.