Claire Denault: Parents Are Quietly Leaving the School System | DSH #1735

Jan 6, 2026

Claire Denault, a homeschooling advocate and alternative education expert, discusses the reasons why parents are increasingly leaving traditional schooling. She highlights how bullying escalates post-school due to social media, and the mental health crisis exacerbated by rigid academic structures. Claire explains unschooling and the advantages of child-led learning. She debunks myths about homeschooling, emphasizes the need for adaptability in education amid AI advancements, and explores innovative approaches like forest schools that enhance emotional well-being and foster genuine curiosity.

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INSIGHT

Bullying Extends Beyond School

Bullying now follows kids home via social media and never stops during non-school hours.
Claire Denault says this continuous harassment removes children's reprieve and worsens mental health.

INSIGHT

Child-Led Learning Works Differently

Unschooling is child-led learning that follows interests rather than rigid schedules.
Claire Denault describes unschooling as play, exploration, and learning through real activities.

ANECDOTE

Bike Story Shows Instant Learning

Claire recounts her son refusing to ride a bike until he chose to, then learning it in one day.
She uses this to show how intrinsic motivation accelerates learning.

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