Through self-compassion, we can begin to recognize each member of society as whole and perfect just the way they are! When we can view people as ‘doing the best they can’ it becomes clear that children’s behaviours are not the problem. Behaviours are a symptom…a (difficult to accept) form of communication. Without behaviours to blame, we realize that it is our ways of connecting (to ourselves, each other and nature) that need attention.
Now more than ever the world is asking us to show up as our authentic selves. In our families, we work hard to live in line with our values, which are often in contrast to those of the larger systems of capitalism.
At Willow Creek Learning Pod, we prioritize the principles of earth care, people care and fair share, the core ethics of permaculture.
Life yields many opportunities to live with paradox. We enjoy exploring the spaces in between, since we observe nature consistently operating beyond the confines of binaries. One of our favourite ways to learn is by observing nature, learning from it, and applying its principles to life.
We are creative visionaries and problem solvers. We feel this is a necessary approach in order to support the ‘unlearning’ required to create an authentic and supportive vision of the future.
We know that there are many things our children need to know to prepare them for an uncertain future that no curriculum can teach. We believe that our children need strong leadership in their formative years to follow their values rather than those imposed by culture at large. Learning is more meaningful when it happens in context and with interest and motivation to drive it. Children benefit from individualized academic and social-emotional activities.
When children (and all people) are appreciated for who they are, they have a much greater chance to thrive. Our educational philosophy is based on the permaculture principle of valuing the edges. Our edges are where the greatest amount of diversity and growth appear in natural systems, and we believe humans are no different. Learning is about how to consistently expand our edges.
It is our deepest desire for everyone to feel seen and validated as who they are, and for the unique gifts they bring to the world.