Unschooling

Criticisms

The following are common opinions and concerns of people who are critical of unschooling.

• Most children lack the foresight to learn the things they will need to know in their adult lives.
• There may be gaps in a child's education unless an educational professional controls what material is covered.
• Because schools provide a ready-made source of peers, it may be more difficult for children who are not in school to make friends and develop social skills than it is for their schooled peers.
• Because schools may provide a diverse group of both adults and students, it might be more difficult for children who are not in school to be directly exposed to different cultures, socio-economic groups and worldviews.
• Some children are not motivated to learn anything, and will spend all of their time in un-educational endeavors if not coerced into doing otherwise.
• Not all parents may be able to provide the stimulating environment or have the skills and patience required to encourage the student's curiosity.
• Because they often lack a diploma from an accredited school, it may be more difficult for unschooled students to get into college or get a job.
• Children who direct their own educations may not develop the ability to take direction from others.