Archive - Unconstrained Kids

What is a skill?

A short video explainer on what developmental science tells us a "skill" really is.

Jul 28 • Munro Richardson

2:03

May 2026

What are constrained and unconstrained skills?

A short video explainer on how two different types of skills drive success in reading, writing, and mathematics.

May 27 • Munro Richardson

1:52

July 2025

How informal learning can help to improve reading and math achievement

Informal learning organizations are uniquely positioned to help children and youth build skills that quietly drive success in reading and math.

Jul 15, 2025 • Munro Richardson

June 2025

Unconstrained Learning

Applied insights from Constrained Skill Theory and Dynamic Skill Theory

Jun 24, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 7: Skill building is messy and never occurs in a straight line.

Skill building is a continuous cycle of construction, collapse, and reconstruction.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 6: Skill is not a single fixed ability.

Skill is an elastic range of complexity and ability.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 5: It is impossible to build skill without motivation.

Without motivation, even the most capable expert will fail.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 4: Emotion is the body's fuel for skill building.

To build skills, start with emotion.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 3: Skills are built through action and interaction.

Kids develop skills from what they do—and particularly what they do with others.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 2: Skills are built in specific contexts.

When we change the context, we change the skill.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Principle 1: Skills self-organize and increase in complexity over time.

Skills can be intentionally developed with positive social relationships, rich learning environments, and well-designed learning experiences.

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

Seven principles of skill building

Research insights from Dynamic Skill Theory

Jun 4, 2025 • Munro Richardson

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