Learning for real: an unschooling diary

Kiti Põld is an Estonian mother who undertook a unique experiment: in the spring of 2020 she began documenting her three children's natural inner impulses - the spontaneous urges to act, create, explore, and engage.

Every day, she carefully recorded only those impulses that clearly came from within the child, free from external pressure or school-imposed tasks. The result is a vivid and moving diary that offers a rare glimpse into how children's genuine interests and talents unfold - when given time, freedom, and trust. What should true education and the freedom to learn look like?

This is a compelling testimony to the power of self-directed learning. Alongside this, the diary also paints an honest picture of everyday family life in Estonia during the COVID-19 lockdown.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kiti Põld is the mother of three children. A theatre scholar by education, she has worked as a dramaturg and written several plays. In addition, she has been involved in recycling, upcycled sewing and sustainable crafts for a long time.

In her hometown of Viljandi, Estonia, Kiti started a local flea market in 2010, beginning a tradition that continues to this day and bringing the community together around sustainability and reuse. In recent years, her focus has turned to volunteering - especially in promoting green living.

In 2023, Estonian NGOs recognized Kiti's activities with the title of Volunteer of the Year. Kiti has previously published the book Our Recycling. The Trash Can Does Not Exist! (2023).