As parents, we all want the best for our children. But what do we do when the traditional school system no longer feels like the best option?
If the daily grind of homework, standardized tests, and rigid curricula seems to stifle creativity in your child rather than nurture it, it’s time to reimagine what education means.
If you’re frustrated with mainstream education and yearning for something more meaningful for your child, you’re not alone. There’s a growing movement toward alternative education and Bravely is part of that. We believe in empowering children to learn in ways that ignite their curiosity and passion.
To help you on this journey, we’ve compiled a list of 10 transformative books that challenge conventional thinking about education and encourage you to explore new possibilities—like worldschooling, unschooling, and other innovative approaches.
“Do Schools Kill Creativity?” by Sir Ken Robinson
Based on his famous TED Talk, Sir Ken Robinson’s book explores how the current education system stifles creativity and innovation. Robinson argues for a radical rethink of how we educate our children, advocating for a system that nurtures creativity and individual talents rather than suppressing them. We think every parenting team should watch this video together and have a conversation around what it means for their family.
Start with this book as it presents a broad critique of the traditional education system and sets the stage for why rethinking education is essential.
“The Element” by Sir Ken Robinson
In The Element, Sir Ken Robinson explores the intersection of passion and talent, urging readers to find “the element” where they are most fulfilled. This inspiring book encourages parents to support their children in discovering their own passions, even if it means stepping outside the boundaries of traditional education.
Follow up with this book to explore how passion and talent intersect, helping parents understand the importance of nurturing their child’s unique abilities.
“Free to Learn” by Peter Gray
Peter Gray’s Free to Learn makes a compelling case for the importance of play in children’s education. Drawing on decades of research, Gray argues that children learn best when they are free to explore, play, and discover the world around them, without the pressures of formal schooling. at nurtures creativity and individual talents rather than suppressing them. Follow the author here: X: @PeterGrayPhD | Website: freedomtolearn.blogspot.com
This book introduces the concept of learning through play and natural curiosity, making a case for less structured, more exploratory forms of education.
“How Children Learn” by John Holt
A classic in the alternative education movement, John Holt’s How Children Learn challenges the conventional wisdom of how children acquire knowledge. Holt’s observations of children’s natural learning processes highlight the importance of trust, freedom, and respect in education.
Holt’s observations deepen the understanding of how children naturally acquire knowledge, reinforcing the value of trust and freedom in learning.
“The Call of the Wild and Free” by Ainsley Arment
Ainsley Arment’s The Call of the Wild and Free is a modern guide for parents looking to break free from traditional education. Arment advocates for a homeschooling approach that prioritizes curiosity, creativity, and the joy of learning, encouraging families to embrace a more natural and child-led educational path. We have SO much respect for Wild + Free here at Bravely. If you live in the United States, get connected to this community! Follow the author here: Instagram: @ainsleyarment | X: @ainsleyarment | Website: wildandfree.co
This book offers a modern, practical guide for those interested in homeschooling or alternative education, providing actionable advice for implementing these ideas.
“The Brave Learner” by Julie Bogart
Julie Bogart’s The Brave Learner is a refreshing guide for parents who want to create a joyful, curiosity-driven learning environment at home. Bogart offers practical tips and inspiring ideas for fostering a love of learning in your child, whether you’re homeschooling, unschooling, or simply looking to supplement traditional schooling. Julie’s heart is inspiring and we highly recommend this book. Website: bravewriter.com
Building on Arment’s ideas, this book adds more creative strategies for fostering a joyful and curiosity-driven learning environment at home.
“The Self-Driven Child” by William Stixrud & Ned Johnson
In The Self-Driven Child, William Stixrud and Ned Johnson write about the importance of giving children more control over their own learning. This empowering book shows how fostering autonomy can lead to happier, more motivated learners, and offers practical advice for parents looking to support their child’s natural curiosity. At Bravely, we believe all kids should be as self-driven as they possibly can and this goes hand in hand with traveling more. Follow the authors here: Ned Johnson on X: @nedjohnson | Website: theselfdrivenchild.com
This book emphasizes the importance of autonomy and self-motivation, offering practical advice for helping children take control of their learning.
“Unschooled” by Kerry McDonald
Kerry McDonald’s Unschooled offers an eye-opening look at the unschooling movement, which prioritizes child-led learning and real-world experiences over traditional classroom instruction. This book is a must-read for parents who want to break free from the constraints of the conventional school system and embrace a more holistic approach to education. Though Bravely doesn’t believe Unschooling is the best option for most kids, we find great value in many of the ideas Kerry so fabulously articulates in this book. Follow the author here: X: @kerry_edu | Website: kerrymcdonald.com
After exploring various alternative approaches, this book delves into the unschooling movement, offering insights into a more radical, child-led learning model.
“Limitless Mind” by Jo Boaler
In Limitless Mind, Stanford professor Jo Boaler explores the incredible potential of the human brain and how traditional schooling often limits it. Boaler presents a more positive and empowering view of education, emphasizing the importance of growth mindset, creativity, and the belief that everyone can learn and excel. This book encourages parents to embrace a more holistic and inclusive approach to education that nurtures each child’s potential. Follow the author here: X: @joboaler | Website: youcubed.org
Boaler’s book introduces the concept of a growth mindset and the potential for learning beyond traditional methods, encouraging parents to embrace a limitless approach to education.
“Educated” by Tara Westover
Tara Westover’s memoir Educated is a powerful testament to the transformative power of education—but not the kind found in traditional schools. Raised in a strict, isolated environment, Westover eventually breaks free to pursue her own education, highlighting the importance of self-directed learning and resilience. We’d love to hear what you think of this book. Follow the author here: Website: tarawestover.com
End with this memoir, which serves as a powerful narrative on the transformative power of self-directed education, reinforcing the principles explored in the previous books.
These books are about re-imagining what it means to learn, grow, and thrive. As you read through these pages, you just might feel more empowered to make the best decisions for your child’s education. Whatever you’re considering with regards to your children’s education, these books will be meaningful to you on your journey.
