Barbara Mullins

Sandra since this is unschooling related I'm hoping it's okey to
post this here, so far it's only been talked about on the
unschooling rescources group but I think we're ready to start
looking for more members to get the group going.
I am trying to develop some sort of "call list" for the children
of people who are on unschooling lists where the kids can use Skype
to talk to each other FREE over the computers (Especially valuable
for younger kids who don't type well yet and if you're anything like
us are having a hard time finding likeminded playmates who arn't
stuck in School mode all the time) All it takes is for Skype to be
downloaded on the computer (free) and that they have available
headsets w/microphones (or just speakers and a microphone will also
work.)
Don't get me wrong - I know "socialization" is overrated but I
think my son would enjoy talking with other kids more often than he
gets a chance to now. For those of you not familiar with Skype it is
kindof a cross between MSN messenger and a phone, they can make
lists of people on their call lists and can choose to be not
available or offline anytime. So they know when others are online or
they could post a message on the yahoo group (with or without
parents help) that someone is available or a new kid would like to
make some friends.
Of course we (parents) could talk using it
occasionally as well and should each be responsible for moderating
our own child's activity! Anyhow here is the link for the yahoo
group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Freeschoolingkidsnetwork
and you will also need to download www.skype.com (owned by ebay)
There is also a chatroom available for people who want to use it
instead.
Lots to think about as we're just getting started but if you
have a kid who would like to talk with other kids then please join.
Barbara