photo by Julie D
__
Feed them. Water them. Love them. Wait.
Unschooling advice—or deschooling oneself—does not change just because the kids get older: *Get closer to your child.*
Eliminate those degrees of separation that have started to grow fearful roots in you! When that happens, *you* actually start to *create* that divisiveness and separation in your relationship, by listening to your fear over the needs and interests of your kid. Do not let that monster in! Shine the light on the scary cobwebs and dark stuff.
Even within one breed, there are personalities. Even within one family, some kids are very "with It" about interpersonal realities, and others a little more clue-free.
Still It seems kind and respectful to assume the best when possible, and people can be pleasantly surprised.
If we treat all dogs (and children) as "bad dogs," they will probably respond In that way, too.