Hey there, homeschool parents! Today, let’s dive into the heart of a homeschooling approach that’s as exciting as it is educational: interest-led learning. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting to explore the vast ocean of educational philosophies, understanding and integrating interest-led learning can transform your homeschooling journey. Let’s explore what it is, why I love it, and how you can create an environment that nurtures this fantastic approach at home.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may make commission off of purchases made through the product links.
What is Interest-Led Learning?
Interest-led learning, also known as child-led or passion-driven learning, is pretty much what it sounds like. It’s an educational approach that allows the student’s interests, passions, and curiosities to guide what and how they learn. Instead of a one-size-fits-all curriculum, the learning path twists and turns, following the child’s questions, fascinations, and the occasional obsession. It puts the educational ownership back into the child’s hands and allows them to foster a life-long love of learning.
Why I love Interest-Led Learning
I’ve been a teacher for ten years and I’m two years into my own homeschool journey. Interest-led learning has transformed my view of education and complete changed my own educational philosophy. Truthfully, I was skeptical at first and was very slow to jump on the child-led bandwagon. But I’ve seen first hand how it benefits a child and will forever be a believer. Here’s why.
Boosts engagment & retention
When kids learn about what they love, their engagement skyrockets. This isn’t just fun; it’s strategic. Engaged learners retain more information because they’re emotionally and intellectually invested in what they’re exploring.
You know how you’ve grown up with the idea that “homeschoolers are weird”. One of the things that makes them weird is their hyper-fixation, knowledge, and ability to communicate about things they are passionate about. Us non-homeschoolers were only able to scratch the surface on any given topic. We definitely didn’t have enough knowledge to hold an entire conversation around one topic. But interest-led homeschoolers certainly can!
fosters independence & confidence
Children who have a say in their learning process become more independent learners. They’re not just absorbing information; they’re learning how to learn, which is a critical life skill. Interest-led learners know how to ask the right questions to dive deeper into their research. They are given a plethora of resources to learn from and have the freedom to learn outside of the four walls of their school.
Plus, when kids are succeeding in areas they’re passionate about it boosts their confidence. They get excited to talk about their interests and want to share their knowledge with anyone willing to listen.
encourages lifelong learning
By focusing on interests, we’re not just teaching facts; we’re nurturing curious, enthusiastic lifelong learners. These kids don’t see learning as a chore but as an exciting part of life. Interest-led learning encourages them to keep following their interest, even down those rabbit holes. It leads them to learn so many things they would never have known about. They learn how to ask what, why, how questions that really evolve their worldview.
tailored to individual needs
Every child is unique, and interest-led learning embraces that. It allows for a personalized education that plays to each child’s strengths, needs, and pace. When you focus on a child’s interest, you’re able to incorporate areas of weakness or intertwine subjects they don’t enjoy without them realizing it. For example, if your child doesn’t enjoy reading but loves animals, provide a variety of books about animals without the expectation of reading. Let them use those books as references and you’ll start to notice them reading sections and eventually whole books without your pressure.
Creating an Interest-Led Learning Environment
observation is key
Start by observing what lights up your child’s eyes. Is it dinosaurs, space, cooking, or storytelling? These interests are your curriculum’s building blocks.
resources, resources, resources
Fill your home with a variety of resources related to your child’s interests. Books, documentaries, kits, and tools related to their passions will encourage exploration.
ask thought provoking questions
Instead of providing answers, ask questions that provoke thought and curiosity. “What do you think happens to the water after it rains?” “Why do you think that character did that?” This encourages critical thinking and exploration.
connect with experts and communities
Whether it’s joining a local astronomy club, attending workshops, or connecting with experts online, expanding your child’s learning network can provide invaluable insights and inspiration.
flexibility is your friend
Be ready to pivot. Interests can change, and that’s okay. The goal is to support a love for learning, not to complete a predefined curriculum.
document & reflect
Keep track of what your child is exploring. This can be through journals, blogs, photos, or projects. Reflecting on their journey helps them see their progress and deepens their learning.
Interest-led learning isn’t just a method; it’s a mindset. It’s about seeing the world as a classroom where every curiosity is an opportunity to learn. By embracing this approach, you’re not just teaching your children about the world; you’re teaching them how to learn with joy, confidence, and enthusiasm. So, let’s turn those passions into pathways and those curiosities into quests. Happy homeschooling!
Remember, every child’s interests are a gateway to endless learning possibilities. By fostering an environment that celebrates these interests, we’re not just teaching our kids; we’re inspiring them to become the passionate, lifelong learners our world needs.
Let’s Get Social!
Leave a Reply