Unschooling and Money

Unschooling from a financial point of view.

So. One thing that held me back from homeschooling in the beginning was this idea I had in my head that it was a big financial concern. I thought I would have to pay for the curriculum, homeschool courses, tutors, all these materials, travel, "field trips", ect. It was overwhelming thinking about it. I felt like it was something only people who were comfortable financially could do.

When I started looking into unschooling, I got the impression (somehow) that to be a good unschooling parent you had to travel and pay for all these super amazing experiences and stuff. I wondered if I was really cut out for this...

But the truth of the matter is (no matter what anyone else says), is that it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to have an amazing unschooling experience! Plus with unschooling vs homeschooling, you don't have to get caught up in buying all the school supplies and such.

There are tons of ways to save money while unschooling! The first step to saving money is to let go of your preconceived notions. Take everything you've learned is needed for learning and throw it right out of your head! Remember, we are stepping out of the box, not bringing the box home. 

A few other tips for handling unschooling on a budget :

● Take advantage of "after" back to school sales.

● Live frugally (this will open up cash for "extras").

● Take advantage of homeschool supply sales.

● Play it by ear. Meaning, pay attention to your childs interests and buy materials that go along with them instead of random stuff you think you'll need.

● Buy used (clothing, toys, ect).

● Take advantage of your local library.

● Find free activities/events in your area.

● Don't be afraid to use your community as a resource. If your child wants to learn a skill, you may find someone local who would be willing to teach them.

● Have family gift experiences or materials for birthdays & holidays. If your daughter wants to take tumbling classes, the grandparents may be able to pitch in!

● Utilize the internet. Google & YouTube are invaluable resources in our home! There are also TONS of free websites with activities and learning material.

● Get crafty (of recruit help in this area) and make your own stuff. You can easily make your own coloring/activity books and such if you take the time!

● Get in touch with local homeschool groups. They often have playdates, co-ops, field trips, ect that you can get in on.

● Make a list of all the free (or cheap) things you could do together. Like playdates, hiking, camping (even if just in the back yard), swimming, exploring the woods, visiting a local animal shelter, fishing, ect. You might be surprised at what you come up with!

● Buy your supplies from low price places like the Dollar Tree. It's amazing what all you can find there!

● Trade skills! If you're good at sewing, you could make something and trade it for something they are able to make/provide! Or offer to clean a friends house in return for what you need from them. Get creative!

● Let your child strike up conversation with people. Some may get annoyed, but there are plenty of friendly people who may be able to teach your child something new, if only you give them the chance. Don't get caught up in how awkward it may make you feel, interacting with a variety of people is great for their social skills and learning experience.

● Find groups of like minded individuals to lean on. When you're having a hard time or faced with a problem, they get it! I never really cared much for becoming part of a community, but I was surprised by how much I enjoy it when I choose to engage. It's really nice to not get advice that goes against my beliefs or have to explain what I'm doing before even getting to the problem that it's clear they likely won't be able to help me with.

● Take advantage of useful apps. There are tons of learning apps, but beyond that there are things like Skype where your child can make friends with other homeschooled/unschooled children from all over the place.

● Slow down. Instead of living in a rush, slow down and give your kids the chance to really experience each moment. Learning takes place in all kinds of places you wouldn't expect, but if you live full speed ahead, many opportunities may be missed.

And the best piece of advice I have for you? RELAX! Just go with the flow! Unschooling is only hard if you make it so. The best thing you can do for your children and for yourself is to just relax. You will find your own personal groove and life will be much easier on everyone involved of you aren't stuck on preprogrammed ideas of the way things "should" be and spend the bulk of your time worrying.

Another piece of advice from an unschooling mama to you is -

Don't obsess over whether every little thing "fits the bill". Don't get so hung up on the philosophy that you worry about every move you make. The beauty of Radical Unschooling, to me, is that you can make it your own. Some unschoolers may disagree with that statement and tell you "If you do (or don't do) this, you aren't a 'whole life' unschooler." Or whatever, but by golly, this philosophy was never meant to be a strict set of rules! If you live by the basics (trust & respect), and you do your best, then you are doing it "right". Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. 💓

Good luck and happy unschooling!