As boatschooling lends itself to individualized learning and pacing, lessons are structured based on the following independence levels. Learning to ride a bike is a great example of how these levels work with the lessons.
You get the bike, helmet, pads and are ready to teach a child how to ride a bike. You may add training wheels, hold the handlebars and back seat, and share encouraging words - the child takes risks within the known comfort of your guidance. Each attempt is improved upon by the results of the last attempt. Things may go well, or not so well, but you are there every step of the way.
The child understands the basic concept of riding a bike and wants to go it alone, but needs more practice and continued support. You may not have to hold the bike anymore, but there are things yet to be worked out. How far down the street can the child go? Can the child ride with friends? What to do after a fall? Ready for more difficult terrain? What if the chain falls off? You're there watching, ready to support, but not guiding every moment.
Bike rides with friends or solo are now the norm. The child relays stories of biking adventures, some exciting, some difficult and many in between. You may be asked questions such as: Where are some good trails to go on? Should the bike be upgraded? What maintenance should be done? Wanna come along on the next ride?
Each child will already exist at a baseline independence level for any of the lessons. Some will bounce back and forth between levels as confidence builds and new ideas are explored. You and the child will discover what level is best for each lesson at any given time.
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