Text Sue what you think!

Unschooling + Halloween = real learning. 🎃
Discover how curiosity, culture, and connection replace curriculum this week with Sue Patterson’s gentle guidance.

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No Need to Pause Learning — Halloween Is the Lesson!

Ever wonder how you’re going to celebrate holidays — like Halloween or Día de los Muertos — and fit in the lessons you planned for the week? 🎃
Here’s the secret: you don’t have to choose. The holiday is the lesson.

In this week’s Unschooling Mom2Mom Podcast episode, Sue shows how these fall celebrations are filled with real learning opportunities — from spooky storytelling and candy math to science, art, and cultural history. You’ll see how learning weaves naturally into family traditions when you slow down, stay curious, and let the season lead the way.

Whether you’re almost unschooling or a (usually) confident unschooler, this conversation will help you relax, reconnect, and see the everyday learning that’s already happening all around you.

🎃 Inside the Episode:

• How to let Halloween be the lesson
• Subject-by-subject learning ideas (Language Arts, Math, Science, Fine Arts, and Social Studies)
• Día de los Muertos projects that connect heart, history, and creativity
• How connection teaches more than curriculum ever could

💡 Resources Mentioned:

• Blog post: Unschooling & Halloween Hub
• 🎧 “An Unschooler’s Haunted House” — a fun, spooky throwback episode
• 🍂 Seasonal Unschooling Guide for Autumn
  
  
• 📅 November Strewing Calendar — packed with easy ideas + a private portal showing the learning behind them

✨ Subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app for weekly encouragement — and remember, pausing curriculum doesn't mean pausing LEARNING.

Holidays can BE the lessons! 

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

Watch Video Version Here

Still searching for a checklist to prove you’re “doing it right”?

In this episode, Sue Patterson breaks down why unschooling doesn’t come with boxes to check — and why that’s both scary and freeing. 

Join a coaching-call-inspired conversation about the brain’s habit of seeking structure, why we feel compelled to “perform” as parents, and how we can shift from tracking tasks to checking connection. If you’re a parent moving away from school-style validation toward real life learning, this episode will help you reframe success, reconnect with your child, and trust your own rhythm.

Keywords: unschooling, deschooling, homeschooling, checklist mentality, parenting without curriculum, connection over structure, unschooling parents, free-range learning, trusting your rhythm

You’ll learn:

• Why our obsession with checklists comes from a school-brain still wired for “right answers”
• How unschooling challenges that structure — and what to do instead
• A simple daily question to replace “Did I finish the list?” with “Did we connect today?”
• Why “progress” looks different in unschooling — and how to see what’s real

Resources mentioned:

• 365 Days of Deschooling
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides 
• Strewing Calendar
• Creating Confidence Unschooling Membership (community & coaching)

Tune in to reset your checklist culture and rediscover freedom, curiosity, and trust in learning together.

Listen now on all major podcast platforms.

Read the transcript here at the Unschooling Mom2Mom Blog.

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

(Spoiler: It’s Not)

 🎁 Grab the Free PDF: 20 Reasons It’s Time to Unschool Your Teen

If your teen is burned out, unmotivated, or just done with school, you’re not alone.
So many parents wonder if it’s too late to change direction — too late to repair connection, too late to make learning joyful again.

Sue Patterson shares what you need to know: 
 ✨ It’s not too late — it’s right on time.

You’ll hear why teens can still thrive with unschooling, how real learning never depended on school, and how rebuilding trust and curiosity at home changes everything.

 Get all the resources for parents of teens in Sue's Creating Confidence Membership Group

💚 Resources You Need: 

•  Homeschooled Teens book → https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/product/homeschooled-teens-book
• Free companion guide: 20 Reasons It’s Time to Unschool Your Teen
• Transcripts Course → https://suepatterson-unschooling.thinkific.com/courses/unschooling-transcripts
• Creating Confidence Membership →  Get all the resources for parents of teens in Sue's Creating Confidence Membership Group https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/creating-confidence-membership

🎧 Subscribe to the Unschooling Mom2Mom Podcast for weekly encouragement, real stories, and practical support on your unschooling journey.

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

Autonomy doesn’t grow from obedience — it grows from real life experience.

In this episode, Sue Patterson shares how unschooled kids learn to weigh pros and cons, think through choices, and develop real decision-making confidence. You’ll explore what cost/benefit thinking looks like in everyday life — from messy art projects to sports teams and video games — and why stepping back as a parent creates space for growth. Learn how unschooling gives kids the practice they need to trust themselves, one choice at a time.

MORE ABOUT THE MEMBERSHIP

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

Shaky start with homeschooling? You’re not failing—the plan is.
Sue Patterson shares how to pivot from “school at home” to unschooling with confidence, reframe the “basics,” and calm the September wobble. + Q&A and resources to help right now.

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LAST DAY SALE

Unschooling Mom2Mom Parent Toolkit: ALL 25 guides = $99
👉 https://suepatterson-unschooling.thinkific.com/courses/guides

Annual Membership Sale: Year-round support with Sue & the community (group coaching, Q&As, 30-day deschooling challenge replays, and parent support).
👉 https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/product/Annual-Membership-NOT-Back-to-School-Sale

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Those first weeks can feel shaky—kids resist, plans unravel, and the “Am I doing enough?” spiral kicks in. In this expanded episode, Sue explains why early plans collapse (hint: school conditioning), how to see resistance as feedback, and simple ways to pivot toward connection, curiosity, and real learning at home.

You’ll learn:
– Why “school at home” breaks down + what works
– How kids learn reading, writing, and math in real life (no power struggles)
– When things feel dull or screens dominate
– A mindset check to quiet the doubts
– Balancing expectations
– What “letting kids lead” looks like

Q&A: pivot vs sticking with it | child-led” in practice | “falling behind” & the basics | resistance & grit | balancing expectations

RESOURCES:
Unschooling 101: https://suepatterson-unschooling.thinkific.com/courses/Unschooling101

Unschooling Math: https://suepatterson-unschooling.thinkific.com/courses/unschooling-math

Technology Guide: https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/product/Technology

Dealing with Critics: https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/product/Critics-&-Naysayers

Gratitude/Family Cult

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

Worried you’re not doing enough as an unschooling parent? 

In this episode, Sue Patterson tackles common doubts about reading, math, technology, and “falling behind.” Learn how to reframe fears, spot real learning, and build confidence — plus hear about the Unschooling Parent Toolkit - with 25 Guides - to help you every step of the way.

Are you lying awake at night wondering: Am I doing enough for my kids? You’re not alone. Let's dive into the doubts that creep in when families move away from traditional homeschooling and into unschooling - and find some SOLUTIONS!

You’ll hear why worries about reading, math, technology, and “falling behind” show up for nearly every parent — and how to reframe them so you can see the real learning that’s happening in your home. Sue shares practical examples from everyday life, mindset shifts that help you shake off school conditioning, and encouragement from her 30+ years of unschooling experience.

👉 And if you’re ready for deeper support, check out the Unschooling Mom2Mom Parent Toolkit — 25 step-by-step guides covering academics, technology, socialization, critics, seasonal learning, and more. 

Get ALL 25 Unschooling Guides for only $99 - through September 30.   https://suepatterson-unschooling.thinkific.com/courses/guides

Normally $400 if purchased individually, the complete set is available through September 30th for just $99.

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

We spent 12 years in school but left unprepared for real life — because school skipped the lessons that actually matter. In this episode, Sue Patterson shares 10 life skills adults wish they had learned in school, from money management and stress relief to media literacy and relationships. You’ll also hear how unschooling gives families the freedom to focus on these real-world skills naturally, without waiting until adulthood.

👉 Want support while you make unschooling work for your family? 

Join the Unschooling Mom2Mom Membership — the Annual NOT Back to School Sale is happening for one more week! Don't miss it!

https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/product/Annual-Membership-NOT-Back-to-School-Sale

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

“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.

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

Say goodbye to “Am I doing enough?” panic and hello to everyday learning that feels light, doable, and fun!

https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/strewing-calendars

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This time of year, many parents feel the pressure to come up with a “plan” that keeps kids engaged without burning anyone out. If rigid schedules or expensive curriculum sets don’t fit your family, there’s another way: strewing.

In this episode, I’ll introduce you to the Strewing Calendar—a simple, flexible tool designed for unschoolers and homeschoolers who want a little structure without the stress. You’ll get answers to common questions: 

✨ What is strewing? How can I make it work?
✨ Could a light framework support learning without becoming rigid? (yes!)
✨ How do families inspire connection, creativity, & learning?
✨ I need help logging learning for progress reports - without turning unschooling into school-at-home!

Whether your kids chase endless interests or you just need quick, low-prep ideas, strewing helps you turn ordinary days into meaningful learning—without lesson plans.

👉 See the Strewing Calendar here: https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/strewing-calendars

(less than $5/month! Other options available!)

Strewing keeps curiosity alive, gives you confidence, and makes learning fun again.

Transcript: 
https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/how-to-spark-curiosity-without-lesson-plans

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Text Sue what you think!

School taught us lessons we didn’t even realize we were absorbing—and they’re still messing with us today.

Most of us didn’t realize it while we were sitting in classrooms—but school was teaching us a lot more than math and grammar. It was shaping how we see ourselves, how we parent, and even how we value creativity and curiosity.

In this episode, we’re digging into 3 hidden “lessons” school taught us that still show up in our lives every day:

1. Follow directions. Don’t ask questions.
2. Creativity only counts if it looks like everyone else’s.
3. If you don’t fit the mold, you’re the problem.

These aren’t just school rules—they’re a kind of brainwashing we carry long after graduation. You may not even realize how much this is creeping into your parenting—but it’s probably at the heart of why you’re doubting yourself so much.

Support the show

_____________________________________________________

As always, reach out if you need more help.
You don't have to do this alone!

Free Email List with weekly unschooling resources

Like what you're hearing - buy Sue a cup of coffee!
Buy Me a Coffee

• Creating Confidence Membership Group
  Podcast listeners can join without the sign up fee - so use this link!
• UNSCHOOLING 101 Course
• Math WITHOUT Curriculum Course
• Unschooling Transcript Course
• Seasonal Unschooling Guides
• Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue

www.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com