The Unschool Space #86 Putting our children's mental health and happiness first, with Lizz Mears in Dorset, UK
Jun 24, 2025
Lizz Mears, a mother of two from Dorset, UK, shares her transformative journey of unschooling after her older child faced mental health challenges in traditional education. She discusses the importance of prioritizing children's happiness and well-being over conventional learning methods. Lizz highlights the courage it takes to break free from outdated educational systems and how this decision has been healing for her family. They also explore parenting in a digital age and the benefits of self-directed learning, emphasizing the need for open communication and trust.
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Leaving School for Mental Health
- Lizz took her youngest child out of school when secondary school proved overwhelming for her daughter.
- Prior to that, her eldest son struggled with school, affecting both his and her mental health deeply.
Societal Conditioning on Education
- Society conditions us to view education in a fixed way tied to school attendance and testing.
- Letting go of these expectations is challenging but crucial for embracing alternatives like unschooling.
Prioritizing Mental Health Over Schooling
- Mental health must take precedence over traditional education systems.
- Lizz learned early that educational success can be achieved many ways, but mental wellness is essential first.