Ep 182: Is Encouragement Ableist?

The Forest School Podcast

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Summary

In this conversation, Wem and Lewis discuss the concept of encouragement and its potential negative effects. They explore the idea that sometimes encouragement can be seen as ableism, as it may push individuals beyond their limits and lead to burnout or shutdown. They discuss the importance of listening to people's boundaries and needs, especially children, and not pressuring them to do more than they are capable of. They also touch on the role of caregiver attunement in providing appropriate support and opportunities for growth. The conversation highlights the need for nuance in offering encouragement and the importance of considering power dynamics and hierarchy in adult-child relationships.
Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Tone

00:58 Exploring the Topic of Ableism and Encouragement

06:08 Reflecting on Capacity and Presuming Competence

11:05 The Impact of Encouragement in School and Forest School Settings

19:01 Caregiver Attunement and Offering Opportunities

20:33 The Holistic Nature of Forest School and Developing Relationships

30:51 Different Approaches to Encouragement and Reflecting on Hierarchy

35:16 The Role of Nonchalance and Reflecting on Encouragement

38:32 Closing Remarks and Call to Action