“Make sure that every single year you reevaluate. Whether this is working for you as a couple, whether this is working for the kids, whether this is working for your family as a whole.”

Other ways to enjoy this Podcast

This was advice that a homeschool facilitator gave to Worldschooler Jaime Salonen, my next guest on episode 007 which airs in 2 weeks.  I feel this advice is important for every parent, whether they home educate, unschool, worldschool or follow the traditional public school system.

With Back to School just around the corner for many in Canada, and already started for many families in the US, this episode I take time to talk about the importance of reflection for a family and some strategies we can use.

Reflection is important because we are taking the time to evaluate where we are, what we are doing and if these actions are still working for us or still reflect our values and beliefs.

Are we living a happy, thriving life? Do we need a change? Is this a complete change in how we live, a paradigm shift or is it a few minor adjustments?

What  key steps can you take to get to this process?

Taking time out to think about and list your family’s education goals, family values and priorities. Do this on your own and then together as a family. These goals and values can include:

• Creating a happy learning environment
• Fostering communication
• Self Respect
• Fostering Independence
• Developing a love of learning

Think about and write down your values and beliefs around education and learning. When did they start to form? Reflect how and where you created these beliefs for yourself and others.

• Is play an important part of learning process? Or does it only apply to certain ages?
• Do you feel post secondary certification is the measure of educational success?
• Do you feel grades and testing are the best measurement for proof of learning?
• Is experience and application a true reflection of learning?

Talk to others from differing backgrounds and ask questions.

• What does learning look like for them?
• How are they living this in their life?
• Do any of their values and beliefs reflect yours?
• Do their values and beliefs oppose yours? Where and how?

You actually don’t have to wait for summer to come around to start the reflection process. It’s essential to do this throughout the year. Then we have a better idea of how we can move forward tomorrow, next mont, or next year. Sometimes it’s a great time to open communication with our children, friends and family.

Our kids are always telling us in words, actions or subtle ways that we need to STOP AND LISTEN. They have important things to say.