Journeys in Self-Directed Education

What If My Child Plays Video Games All Day?

Parents often worry: “What if my child just plays video games all day?” At Embark Center, we hear this all the time. This post explores why video games aren’t the enemy, what kids are really gaining, and how to reframe the “worst-case scenario” into something far less scary. Most of all, it’s about trust—trusting your child’s curiosity, their growth, and their unique path.

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Self-Directed Learning, Parent Stories, Deschooling Andrea Cubelo-McKay Self-Directed Learning, Parent Stories, Deschooling Andrea Cubelo-McKay

The Unexpected Grief of Letting Go of School

Leaving school can bring unexpected grief. Parents and kids often find themselves mourning more than an institution — they’re letting go of schoolishness, the belief that grades define worth and that belonging comes from doing things “the right way.” This reflection explores the quiet ache of stepping outside the tribe of school, and how families move through loss toward new kinds of connection and growth.

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