"I'm Bored"
Question
"I pulled my 12 year old daughter out of public school in March. We are both still deschooling. She has been complaining that she is bored. When I ask her what she would like to do she says ,'I don’t know, you’re the adult you’re supposed to entertain me.' How can I gently encourage her to explore? I admit that I have been a very controlling mom in the past and I’m working very hard on not just telling her what to do."
Answer
Well, she's not right that you're supposed to entertain her - good try though!
But directly asking is often met with that kind of response. Especially when she's used to you being more controlling and setting it all up for her. It will take a little getting used to - for both of you.
Lean into the things she simply enjoys doing, and do more of that. Take a trip to the craft store (if she's into anything there) and get supplies for her to play with.
Play more games with her.
Cook with her.
Don't turn things into lessons, just see where it goes and what data you can gain from the connection. It will help you know where to go next.