Unschooling Explained: How Kristin Left Public School to Foster Self-Directed Learning cover art

Unschooling Explained: How Kristin Left Public School to Foster Self-Directed Learning

Unschooling Explained: How Kristin Left Public School to Foster Self-Directed Learning

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 In this episode, Philippa Bagley interviews Kristen Himm, an unschooling advocate, who shares her journey from being a public school teacher to embracing unschooling for her children. They discuss the principles of unschooling, how it differs from traditional education methods like Montessori, and the importance of creating a rich learning environment that fosters natural curiosity and self-directed learning. Kristen emphasizes the significance of socialization, confidence in learning, and the flexibility of unschooling in adapting to the needs of children. The conversation also touches on the challenges and benefits of navigating higher education as an unschooler and the future of education in a rapidly changing world.

Takeaways
Unschooling is about following children's interests to facilitate learning.
The transition from public school to unschooling can be a personal journey.
Creating a rich learning environment is crucial for unschooling success.
Children learn math and reading naturally through everyday experiences.
Socialization in unschooling happens organically through real-life interactions.
Confidence plays a significant role in a child's learning process.
Unschooling allows for flexibility in learning and daily routines.
Interest-led learning can lead to a deeper understanding and joy in education.
Higher education is accessible for unschoolers through various pathways.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential in today's educational landscape.

Sound bites"We try to find a rhythm."
"Unschooling is self-directed learning."

About Kristen Himm
Kristen — or “Ms. K,” as many of her students affectionately call her — is a lifelong educator, mom, and founder of ABQ Homeschool Connection. After 17 years teaching in public schools and becoming a parent in 2012, Kristen experienced a powerful shift during the pandemic that led her to reimagine what learning could look like for both her students and her own children. Guided by the belief that kids learn best when they’re free to follow their passions, explore their strengths, and collaborate with others, she stepped away from traditional education to create a space rooted in curiosity, connection, and community. Through ABQ Homeschool Connection, Kristen and her growing team of partner teachers offer classes and experiences that support natural learning — where play, discovery, and real-world engagement drive growth. Her work centers around nurturing a love of learning for children of all ages in a multi-age, collaborative environment that values curiosity over competition. When she’s not building community or facilitating learning experiences, you’ll find Kris spending time with her two daughters, continuing to learn right alongside them.

https://www.abqhomeschoolconnection.com/
@abq_homeschool_connection
https://www.facebook.com/ABQHomeschoolConnection

About Philippa Bagley
I’m a Professional Speaker and Therapist with a diverse background that includes military service and teaching.Like many people, I grew tired of corporate life and retrained in a range of therapies.
Now, I combine my extensive qualifications to assist individuals and organisations in boosting their communication, connection, and confidence. This enables them to make a significant impact on the world.I am passionately committed to mentoring clients, helping them overcome issues related to confidence, anxiety, and trauma, unlocking their potential, achieving their highest goals, and building mental resilience.
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