Preparedness
Discover the Secrets of Off-Grid Education for Kids
For families moving to rural homesteads, one of the primary concerns is often the education of their children. Remote locations come with their own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing traditional educational resources. Traveling to a physical school can mean long hours on a bus or significant driving commitments for parents. Meanwhile, online schooling requires a stable and fast internet connection, which might not be feasible in some remote areas.
There are three primary educational paths available for families in rural settings. The first two, online schooling and homeschooling, are widely recognized. However, a lesser-known option is “Natural Learning,” which offers a unique approach to education.
Online schooling provides a structured educational framework, often free of charge, and typically involves receiving a “school in a box” at the beginning of the academic year. Students and parents engage regularly with online teachers. Yet, this approach demands reliable internet service and may not align well with the flexible lifestyle many seek in rural living.
Homeschooling, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility. Parents can either develop their own curriculum or purchase a pre-packaged one. This method allows parents to teach their children similarly to traditional teachers, adhering to state guidelines for record-keeping and testing.
The third option, Natural Learning, also known as Unschooling, is a form of homeschooling without a set curriculum. As the name suggests, it involves not sending children to school and not replicating a school environment at home. The essence of Natural Learning is that children guide their educational journey. This approach is based on the belief that children are naturally curious and retain information better when it is relevant to them.
“Natural Learning is not turning your kids loose with no guidance. It is about fostering a relationship where they feel comfortable asking questions, and learning how to find the answers to those questions.”
An example of Natural Learning in action is when a child shows interest in a topic, such as dinosaurs, and parents use that opportunity to teach related concepts like geometry. This method emphasizes learning through exploration and real-world experiences rather than structured lessons.
Engaging children in everyday tasks on a homestead, such as livestock husbandry or gardening, can also be educational. As they grow, encouraging them to learn skills from others and then teach those skills back can reinforce their knowledge.
Socializing in rural areas can be challenging due to distances between homes. Attending community events, joining local homeschooling groups, or participating in church activities can provide social opportunities for children.
Research by Peter Gray, Ph.D., a research professor at Boston College, supports the effectiveness of Natural Learning. He notes that “the pressure associated with such instruction may make the problem worse” for children who struggle with traditional learning methods.
Gray’s studies reveal that many children learn to read at varying ages, often without formal instruction. “Most learn to read within their first 7 to 8 years of life, but a few don’t read until they are in their teens.”
In his research on unschooled adults, Gray found that 83 percent pursued higher education. Many navigated college admissions without traditional credentials, leveraging interviews and portfolios instead. Their self-motivation and capacity for self-direction often gave them an edge over peers.
For those who bypassed college, their ability to think creatively led to success in trades and entrepreneurship, often outpacing their traditionally educated counterparts.
While homeschooling isn’t suitable for every family, it’s reassuring to know that in a grid-down scenario, lacking formal education isn’t catastrophic. The ability to read opens limitless learning possibilities.
Building a family library can be a valuable resource, and it can be done affordably through thrift stores and library sales. Ultimately, fostering a love for learning and adaptability is key to thriving in any environment.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.