Free To Learn: Peter Gray

Free To Learn

Peter Gray's book, Free To Learn is about the human nature of education. This book caused a shift in my own life. It had me reflect on my beliefs on childhood. My beliefs around free play, screen time, schooling, how kids learn and parenting.

On this episode Peter Gray shares his ideas, research and insights on those subjects. He addresses the fears and doubts that surround self directed learning and unschooling.

The Shift To Democratic School

Years ago Peter Gray found himself in a situation that may sound familiar to some. His son was being destroyed by the traditional school structure. He was fighting it every step of the way. Peter came to a point where he needed to be on his son's side and support him, not fight against him. They decided to leave the school and look for other options. What they found was Sudbury Valley democratic school. Sudbury Valley was completely unlike any other school around. No subjects, no bells, no curriculum, no classrooms. Unstructured, unhindered free play. The school was not divided by grade or age segregated. It was a democratic community where everyone at the school, no matter what age, had a vote. The philosophy: Adult's do not control children's education; children educate themselves.

His son flourished. But Peter had concerns. Will this environment actually work? How will the children become educated? Will his son learn the skills needed to be an independent person? What about college?

Free To Learn

Those fears are what lead Dr. Gray to dive into the study of self directed learning and unrestricted play. He studied graduates from Sudbury Valley School as well as other unschoolers. The evidence, he says, was compelling. The graduates were doing well. They had successful careers. Many went on to College and excelled there. They all credited the self directed learning environment they grew up in.

In this episode we talked about how kids in a self directed learning environment acquire their education and go on to lead a successful life.

How can you become educated through such a different method?

What are key parts of the self directed learning environment?

Are there benefits to age mixing?

What happens when you follow your passions from a young age?

The Importance of Free Play and what happens in its Absence

The 'Schoolish Mentality"

Parents Irrational Fears

Do Kids Need Structure?

Democracy and Democratic Schools

I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this interview. Do you share any similar fears? How much free play do you support in your home? You can contact me here.

If you would like to hear other episodes on the importance of play check out my interview with Lenore Skenazy.