Binge Learning or Learning Deeply

One of the things I really love about natural learning or unschooling is that without a set curriculum, Helena is free to pursue her interests as much - or little - as she wants - until she knows all she needs to for now about a subject.

Think about a time you wanted to learn about something. If it really interested you, you delved deeply, you spent a lot of time on it, you might have read widely or watched a lot or talked to many different folks who "knew all about it." Then one day your interest was satisfied, the knowledge was integrated into your life to serve you as long as you needed it - but you were probably spending time learning about a new topic now. 

I've had an insatiable desire to learn about all sorts of things over the years and my bookshelves reflect those interests: natural childbirth, attachment parenting, vegetarian eating, paleo eating, Waldorf, nature studies, ecotherapy, psychology, mindfulness and meditation, herbalism.... 

This benefit of unschooling often results in children who have pursued their passions for years and are quite skilled at something before they ever reach college. I recently read of an unschooler going to school for some sort of tech field who had built a computer at age 13 and I also recently watched a youtube about another 13 year old unschooler whose films have been shown in film festivals. 

Helena's suddenly interested in cartooning and has spent hours today drawing cartoon animals. I love that this method of learning where life=learning=life allows her the time to explore her interests fully! 

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