A conversation about the origins and meaning of the term ‘literacy’ and how it pertains to unschooling.
In this episode, Sandra gives a historical overview of the use and significance of the term ‘literacy’ as well as shares examples of how the process of becoming ‘literate’ have played out in her own children’s lives.
Since the recording, I asked Sandra what she thinks about dyslexia. The question isn’t as such related to the rest of the conversation, but I was curious about her perspective. Below is my question and Sandra’s answer.
Based on your knowledge and experience, what is your perspective on dyslexia?
“Each person learns to read in his own way. There is a set of traits that includes spatial reasoning, math facility, and left-handedness. And what came to be called “dyslexia” is in there, too. It’s mostly males. They seem to tend toward engineering and design.
They, the same as other people, learn to read in their own way. They, like other people, are ahead of school’s expectations in some areas, and behind in others. In the case of this bundle of talents, they tend to be slower to read, and quicker to understand math, puzzles, games and the rearrangement of parts.
I have a husband like that, and one son like that. I had a father like that. Unfortunately, he went to elementary school in the 1930s, and was punished for not reading and writing as quickly and as clearly as the other students. He might have done better had they not made him use his right hand, when he was left-handed.
Parents who are accepting and understanding can help children grow up peacefully and whole in those areas of learning.“
Sandra Dodd is one of the oldest ‘unschooling-voices’ on Internet. She started advocating for this way of living and learning back when conversations took place via platforms such as Yahoo-groups. Her website dates back to 1999 and gathers writings from many contributors. She keeps a blog with the delightful name Just Add Light and Stir where she posts (almost) daily inspiration and encouragement for unschooling parents. She has three grown children and lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico with her husband Keith.
In this interview from 2023 you can read more about Sandra’s perspective on learning, and how life without school has unfolded in her family over the years.
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