SCHOOL'S OUT
What is the unschooling trend on TikTok?
An expert has warned parents of joining the trend
THE unschooling trend is the latest fad on TikTok to gain traction amongst users.
But education experts have warned parents about joining in with the new craze.
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On the social media platform, #unschooling has already garnered 30,000 posts with videos being viewed hundreds of thousands of times.
Although the trend has caught the attention of parents, it has also, raised concern amongst experts.
In particular, the worry is that families will not make the best decisions for them and their children.
Unschooling on social media refers to a similar teaching style to homeschooling.
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The trend is child-led with a less rigorous structure than learning in an education institution.
It differs to homeschooling in that it does not follow the national curriculum.
Not only does this allow a child more free reign to focus on what they enjoy but it could offer benefits of deciding how and what to learn.
Unschooling originated in the US but has already gathered speed online in the UK too.
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When did the TikTok trend start?
Unschooling is not a new idea in the US, but it's been highlighted due to the popularity of mom Kelsey Rhae's video on TikTok.
One video has been played 1.8 million times, as of October 15, 2024.
In the clip, she explains the difference between unschooling and public school.
The video has been liked nearly 200,000 times and saved by over 30,000 users.
Talking to others on social media, Kelsey Rhae said: "There's public school, online public school, there's home school and then there's unschool.
"Homeschool you're still using the school curriculum to teach your child and you still have to turn in paperwork to the government."
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She added that she does not want "to check boxes" about her life and her child.
That is the reason she has the "mindset" that they "have to do this".
Google searches have also seen a spike in queries since July 2024.
What have experts said about the unschooling trend on TikTok?
Director of Admissions for Leighton Park School has explained the concern of straying away from the national curriculum.
He told NetMums: "Unschooling emphasizes autonomy and natural curiosity over traditional schooling methods."
John added that the trend could "lead to gaps in essential knowledge and skills".
Unschooling is in some ways hands off, but it's actually really hard work up front... effortless days are the product of hard work
Unschooling mom on TikTok
Despite some confusion amongst videos online, parents opting to unschool or homeschool do not have to legally stick to the national curriculum.
However, John advised that schools offer a structured integration between peers that allows for interactions that are important to take part in activities and soft life skills.
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How do I know if the unschooling trend is right for my child?
John continued to suggest that those considering the trend should not make a hasty decision.
Instead, they should thoroughly research the requirements and reasons for doing so.
Some parents may come to realize that the trend would not suit their child but others could find it helps them.
One mom who unschooled her kids, shared on TikTok that unschooling is not an easy option.
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She posted: "Unschooling is in some ways hands off, but it's actually really hard work up front... effortless days are the product of hard work."
However, if school really is not right for your child, other options are available, such as online learning.