#181 How Unschoolers Learn the Basics Without Curriculum: Unschooling the 3Rs

“I love unschooling — but I want my kids to know the basics first.” 

Sound familiar?

If you're worried how your kids will learn those 3Rs — reading, writing, and math —  especially if you choose to unschool, Sue Patterson will help you see how unschooling works WITHOUT wasting money on curriculum! 

Unschooling basics unfold naturally through everyday life — cooking, gaming, texting, problem-solving, and pursuing hobbies. Instead of relying on worksheets or pre-set classes, unschoolers build real skills through self-directed learning. Reading, writing, and math become meaningful when connected to real-world experiences. This podcast can help you reframe what what you're seeing!

We’ll talk about:

• How unschoolers learn to read and write without formal lessons
• Why everyday life provides endless opportunities for unschooling math
• How unschooling develops critical thinking, communication, and life skills
• Why unschooling covers “the basics” more deeply than traditional curriculum ever could
• And even how insisting on “basics first” can unintentionally gatekeep curiosity and delay growth.

Whether you’re just starting your unschooling journey or you’re worried your child isn’t “academically ready” to self-direct, this episode will reassure you!

Unschoolers don't ignore The Basics  — they reframe the starting point AND the path to get there.

Resources to dive deeper:
• Free PDF: A guide to reframing the basics for today’s world
https://unschooling-mom2mom.kit.com/07851be0ac
• Reading, Writing & Math Guides (bundle available)

Tune in to see how unschooling can trust the fundamentals and let curiosity lead.