A Foundation of Trust

Author's Note: This week brought more heavy national news. I often struggle with concern and despair for our country and its most vulnerable populations, while balancing that weight against the good happening directly around me. Every day I'm surrounded by happy kids doing their thing. Four new members joined us this week, with one or two more likely next week. I've also been working with several new families who want to homeschool independently. Families are actively seeking alternatives to public school, and Deep Root Center is on their radar. That keeps me incredibly busy and feeling immensely fulfilled.​ 

A walk back from the SUNY C sledding hill.

Trust forms the foundation of self-directed learning. During initial meetings with new families, I make one thing clear from the start: I trust every child who walks through DRC's doors. This trust operates on multiple levels. I'm confident that each child intuitively understands what they need to grow and learn, and that they'll naturally pursue those things—including learning to trust themselves rather than what society tells them. I also trust they'll honor our community agreement, which opens with a simple phrase: Respect yourself, each other, and this space.

Do they sometimes need reminders? Of course. But within a short time, it becomes clear whether a child is invested enough in membership to uphold that agreement. Sometimes this requires a conversation or two. Usually, it leads to self-awareness, taking responsibility, and an apology, if warranted. 

When I fully embrace trust—getting out of the way and allowing each child's curiosity to lead—things flow beautifully. Kids explore and discover, everyone engages deeply, and the Center hums with energy. That hum isn't always quiet or decorous. Loud and boisterous? Absolutely.

I am often reminded that trust runs both ways. We understand, and take seriously, that every family is placing their child in our care. This often comes with hesitation and skepticism because our philosophy flies in the face of convention. But within the first day—sometimes within an hour-long visit—that uncertainty dissolves when they see how happy and engaged their child is. It's hard to argue with radiating excitement and joy.
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We're building a space where everyone feels comfortable enough to be themselves. At the end of the day, isn't that what we all want—to be trusted, cared for, and supported as we find our way to our authentic selves? 

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DRC News

As mentioned above, this first week back from Holiday Break was a busy one. Welcome to all of our new kiddos and their families! 
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To add another layer to our usual chaos, our T-Mobile internet went out for the last half of the week. Apparently, a router is considered a dinosaur when it is four years old. We received the new one on Friday afternoon; however, I fear getting it set up is going to include another lengthy phone call with T-Mobile, because it was not cooperating after the first few tries. I submitted to frustration and exhaustion but will go back to it Monday morning with a fresh brain and new perspective. 

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The DRC Pop-ups Peeps had a great time at the Massena Library this past Thursday. Janine reported a lot of great far-ranging conversations, fun, laughter inducing games, and shared thoughts about future plans,  including college.  

They will meet at Nicandri next week.  We are hoping to expand the number of kiddos who participate in the Pop-ups. All homeschool families are welcome. Learn more: here.