Our Principles
What's the vision for HRVU? We have some guiding principles for families to keep in mind as we interact with each other. These principles are based in Unschooling philosophy and important for acting in accordance with HRVU's Purpose and Policies.
1. Free Play
Free play is a crucial part of Unschooling. Free play gatherings will NOT involve adult-led or adult-organized crafts, games, sports, etc. Our society places pressure on parents (moms in particular) to keep our children entertained and busy with activities at all times and to keep pace with the other kids. It may be difficult for some to stand back while their children figure out how to spend their own time. The goal of HRVU is to slow down and take a more hands-off approach. We wish to reclaim the golden age of childhood, when kids would go out and play in all kinds of weather, with neighborhood kids of all ages, with little to no adult supervision. Our society is actually safer than ever before, but the sensationalist mainstream media would lead you to believe otherwise. So let's allow our kids to experience the freedom to exercise their imaginations - and yes, even boredom!
2. Budget Friendly
One of the main goals of HRVU is to take advantage of local opportunities that are budget-friendly (and preferably free). In order to make homeschooling possible, many families rely on a single, modest income. The education we have chosen for our children should not necessarily represent a financial burden. At times we may share information about local events or activities that require fees, but the main goal is for activities to be affordable
and accessible to all.
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Please note: Currently there are NO MEMBERSHIP FEES (nor cooperative obligations at this time) for joining HRVU - this is an entirely volunteer-operated and FREE group.
3. Disputes
HRVU encourages parents to allow children to settle their own disputes during group play. For example, your child comes to you to "tattle" on another child's misbehavior. Rather than resolve the problem on her behalf, you might first try asking, "Did you tell her you did not like it when she did XYZ? Did you ask her to stop?" Giving children the chance to solve their own problems and speak up for themselves assertively yet respectfully are essential life lessons worth practicing in childhood. When we take it upon ourselves as parents to fix everything, we take away valuable learning opportunities.
Note: The exceptions to this include any act of physical violence or true safety concerns. There is a big difference between a child "tattling" on normal childhood misbehavior (i.e. not sharing, taking toys, teasing, not taking turns, etc.) vs. a child reporting harmful or unsafe behaviors to a responsible adult.
4. Safety Concerns
Safety is important. If you see unsafe behavior, trust your parental judgement and do what you feel is necessary to keep your child safe. That being said, HRVU encourages parents to avoid "hovering" or interrupting play time with excessive cautions or safety warnings. Kids need to take risks during play and figure out some rules for themselves with the help of their peers. Your kid will probably hurt another kid at some point. Other kids will probably hurt your kid at some point. It happens; let's try not to make it a big deal. Bring bandaids.
PLEASE NOTE: HRVU will not be held responsible for any injuries, damages, accidents, etc. that may result from your participation in group activities. Ultimately, responsibility for safety lies with the supervising parent or guardian at all times. Play at your own risk!
5. Presence
Have you ever noticed a family sitting in a restaurant and each person is looking down at their own mobile device? Or perhaps you are trying to have a conversation with someone and they suddenly check their cell phone and start texting in the middle of your sentence? Or maybe you are waiting to pick up your child at dance class and every mom in the waiting room is glued to their phones instead of making friends. We have all been on the receiving and giving end of these scenarios and it just seems to be the new norm in our modern society. This digital isolation and lack of "common" courtesy is a disturbing trend. The purpose of HRVU is to build a community of like-minded families. Please keep this in mind during in-person social gatherings. Let's all do our best to practice good old fashioned etiquette and actually connect with each other, without the constant crutch of technology. Some screen time is understandable and unavoidable, but this group is NOT a way for you to drop off your child to play while you disengage from those around you.
6. Mentorship
Mentorships play an important part in Unschooling. This form of education is self-directed, but parents can support their children's interests by forging connections with mentors from the community.
If you have a skill, trade, hobby, passion, or expertise that you would be willing to share with the HRVU children, we would love to hear about it!! We may be able to connect you with children who are eager to learn from your experiences. You could become a child's personal mentor or simply offer a one-off "lesson" on a subject of your choosing.
Click Here if you are interested in sharing your knowledge and skills with HRVU children.
