Host: Dayna, thank you so much for joining us today. It’s such an honor to have you.
Dayna Martin: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to be here. I’m excited to share and hopefully inspire those who are considering alternative education paths.
One thing I want to emphasize is that fear is a natural part of parenting, especially when it comes to stepping outside conventional norms like traditional schooling. It’s important to recognize that much of this fear comes from being conditioned to see learning as something that must be forced or measured. Many of us weren’t trusted as kids, and that lack of trust makes it challenging to extend that trust to our own children. But the truth is, children are natural learners. Learning is instinctual—like breathing. It’s joyful, expansive, and powerful when it’s not forced, controlled, or regulated. It’s the systems of grades, schedules, and external measures that disrupt the natural flow of learning.
Host: That’s a powerful perspective. What would you say to parents who are just starting to explore unschooling and feel overwhelmed?
Dayna: First, I’d tell them that their kids already know how to learn—it’s the parents who need to take the responsibility to re-educate themselves. Start by finding voices and resources that resonate with you. Reach out to those communities, send emails, ask for guidance, and build a support system.
It’s also essential to unlearn the belief that education has to be compartmentalized into subjects like math, English, and science. Life isn’t divided into these categories; it’s immersive. Real learning happens when children are internally motivated, not when it’s externally imposed.
Host: That’s a significant mindset shift for many. Did you always believe in this philosophy?
Dayna: Not at all. I didn’t grow up with this perspective. When I first learned about the history of public schooling, it was eye-opening and, honestly, a little scary to think about stepping away from that system. A good friend of mine, John Taylor Gatto, who endorsed my book Radical Unschooling, was instrumental in helping me understand the roots of traditional education and its limitations.
Now, after years of living this way with my own family, I see how beautifully children can thrive when they’re trusted. I have four kids: Devon, 16; Tiffany, 13; Ivy, 10; and Oran, 7. None of them have ever followed a traditional curriculum. My role as a parent is to facilitate their learning, which is very hands-on but also incredibly rewarding. It’s all about pursuing passions together as a family, and education becomes a natural side effect of that process.
Host: What would you say to a family where one parent is fully on board with unschooling, but the other is hesitant?
Dayna: This is common, and it’s crucial to approach it with respect and understanding. Everyone’s concerns need to be heard. Invite your partner to explore the philosophy with you. Don’t force the concept on them—that’s hypocritical in itself. Share resources, read together, and communicate openly. It might take time, but with love, patience, and respect, you can often find a solution that works for the entire family.
Host: What would you say to parents who are struggling with their own conditioning from traditional schooling and parenting?
Dayna: That’s such an important question. Many of us were not trusted as children, and we carry those wounds into adulthood. Acknowledging that and allowing yourself to heal is key. When you trust your children, it’s not just transformative for them—it’s healing for you as well. You’re breaking cycles and giving your kids a better experience than you had. When kids are supported in pursuing what they love, they develop the skills they need to build happy, fulfilling lives. Happiness is the key to success—not the other way around.
Host: That’s a beautiful sentiment. Where can people go to learn more about your work and connect with you?
Dayna: You can find more about me and my work at DaynaMartin.com. I’ve written two books: Radical Unschooling: A Revolution Has Begun and Sexy Birth. I also share resources and insights on our family’s YouTube channel, The Sparkling Martins, where you can see what life looks like when you live in freedom and without traditional schooling. If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you on this journey.
Host: Thank you so much, Dayna. This has been incredibly insightful.
Dayna: Thank you for having me. I hope this helps parents find the courage to trust their children—and themselves—on this path. Peace to all of you!