In Arkansas, a mother of three and former elementary school teacher is making headlines with her unique approach to education.
Choosing to depart from traditional schooling systems, this parent has adopted an alternative method known as ‘unschooling’ for her children’s education.
The Unschooling Approach
Taylor Moran (32), a certified ex-elementary school teacher, strongly believes that the conventional education system stifles children’s creativity, dampens their spirit, and consumes valuable time.
Consequently, she has opted for the ‘unschooling approach’. This is a form of homeschooling that emphasizes learning through life experiences, such as household responsibilities, personal interests, and internships.
She contends that the traditional education system falls short of equipping children with necessary life skills.
As such, she and her husband, Nick, have decided to teach practical skills to their children, Hudson, Thompson, and Gus. These skills range from survival techniques and preparing food from scratch, to making sourdough and yogurt.
Her experiences within the education system, both as a student and a teacher, have significantly influenced her decision. As per Moran, the traditional system not only killed her spirit but delayed her creative function and robbed her of precious time.
Skills Beyond the Classroom
This approach extends beyond physical skills. It also includes teaching their children to think critically. The curriculum isn’t strictly defined, and no subjects are off-limits.
Children will be taught whatever they will need to apply in real-world scenarios, including basic subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Philosophy is a key subject in Moran’s curriculum, a field both she and her husband majored in at the University of North Texas.
Their oldest son, Hudson, even takes an Outschool class on the subject, an online platform that offers Zoom-based lessons. Moran also believes in the critical importance of reading, a fact supported by a report on the importance of reading in children’s development.
The Social Aspect of Homeschooling
A common critique of homeschooling is the perceived lack of socializing opportunities for children. However, this mom refutes that claim, arguing that traditional schooling does not necessarily equate to superior socialization.
She asserts that genuine socialization happens in life, not strictly in a classroom. Socialization includes interaction with others in natural settings such as parks, where children can express themselves freely.
The family’s daily schedule is not rigid but adapts according to their needs and the weather. Activities range from crafting to hiking and even online classes.
Moran shares her unique education approach on TikTok, where she has found a community of like-minded parents interested in unschooling.
Despite facing criticism, the couple remain steadfast in their belief. The unschooling movement continues to grow globally, with parents in various countries opting for this approach.
Challenging the Norm
The story of this unconventional case is thought-provoking, challenging the status quo and offering an alternative model that places the child’s interests and needs at the center.
In the ongoing discussions about educational reform, the journey of Taylor Moran and her family stands out as a compelling example.
This unschooling adventure goes beyond challenging the conventional—it underscores the boundless potential of learning when traditional classroom boundaries are transcended.
As the future of education evolves, this pioneering journey provides invaluable lessons in innovation, resilience, and the transformative power of belief in a child’s abilities.
READ MORE:
- 22 Unbelievable Things Teachers Have Confiscated From Their Students
- She Didn’t Want Her Son To Sleep At His Girlfriend’s Because “Something Felt Very Off”— And She Was Right
This article was produced by TPR Teaching.
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and founder of TPR Teaching, crafting inspiring pieces that promote the importance of developing new skills. For 7 years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.