The BIG Home Ed Conversations

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the feelings and reflections that arise as the 'school year' comes to a close, as home educators we don't always adhere to the concepts of school years/grade levels and otherwise - but we do still have some hang ups that like to rear their ugly heads this time of year. In this episode, Kelly and Ashley reflect on how this time of year has made them feel, what it inspires us to do over the summer and how this can be turned into a positive, reflective and joyful time of year as easily as it could end up being stressful. The conversation emphasizes the significance of trusting the home education process, reducing anxiety, and recognizing the progress made throughout the year. Find us on Instagram and Tiktok @bighomeedpodcast - don't forget to rate if you loved this episode! Keywords: home education, school year, learning, flexibility, planning, summer break, school anxiety, parenting, education, reflections, end of term, summer holidays, unschooling, parenting, motherhood, reframing, mindset, limiting beliefs, deschooling, deregistering, changing mindsets around education

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss their journey in home education, reflecting on their podcast's evolution and the importance of individual learning paths. They share personal anecdotes about family dynamics, gratitude, and the challenges of parenting. The conversation emphasizes the significance of values in education and different learning styles, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique approaches to home education. In this conversation, they discuss the evolution of their educational methods, whether its a more school-like approach to unschooling to a more structured yet flexible approach that prioritizes child-led learning. The conversation also touches on the significance of fostering a positive parent-child relationship and the values that guide their educational philosophy. Additionally, they reflect on their podcast's growth and share plans for future episodes, highlighting the importance of community feedback. Follow us over on @bighomeedpodcast on instagram and tiktok! Let us know who you want to hear from in upcoming interviews and please do share the podcast with a friend!

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss their reactions and lasting feelings after the interview last week with Wendy Charles-Warner, Co-Chair of Education Otherwise. They emphasize the importance of community support, the need for a unified approach to advocacy, and the ongoing fight for home education rights. The hosts address stereotypes, government agendas, and the necessity for compassionate dialogue while highlighting the value of home education in promoting diversity and creativity in society. In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the implications of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill affecting home education, focusing on the burdensome reporting requirements for parents, the perceived overreach of government control, and the emotional toll on families. They critically examine the narrative that schools are inherently safer for children and advocate for parental rights and autonomy in education. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building relationships with children and the need for community advocacy to protect these rights. Share you thoughts and feedback with Kelly and Ashley on TikTok and Instagram @bighomeedpodcast Sign the petition mentioned in the podcast here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/716515?fbclid=IwY2xjawKv8GNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFvNHVwTzZEVlMzWURiZmMxAR63S6Urz5MQUOqJZh9q4JoJIfNjHH81vVn18umW96KqfDCbkHgxbkwjulZnLg_aem_s4NWwDJ_dlbFAGa5FcX1Yw Keywords: home education, rights, community, legislation, misconceptions, government agenda, financial support, compassionate dialogue, education diversity, home educators, home education, parental rights, government overreach, children's safety, education policy, homeschooling, family values, safeguarding, education reform, community advocacy

In this episode, May 2025, Kelly Rigg and Wendy Charles-Warner discuss the ongoing Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, its implications for home education, and the community's response. They explore the current status of the bill in Parliament, concerns regarding registration and data requirements, and the potential impact on families, particularly those under scrutiny from social services. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community activism, the role of media in advocacy, and the need for parents to overcome fear and take action to protect their rights. In this conversation, Wendy Charles-Warner and Kelly Rigg discuss the complexities and challenges surrounding home education, particularly in light of proposed government registration measures. They explore the limitations of government oversight, the need for funding and support for home educators, and the impact of draconian measures on relationships between parents and local authorities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of celebrating diversity in education and the ideological motivations behind current education policies. Ultimately, they advocate for parental rights and the need for a more supportive approach to home education. Share you thoughts and feedback with Kelly and Ashley on TikTok and Instagram @bighomeedpodcast Sign the petition mentioned in the podcast here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/716515?fbclid=IwY2xjawKv8GNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFvNHVwTzZEVlMzWURiZmMxAR63S6Urz5MQUOqJZh9q4JoJIfNjHH81vVn18umW96KqfDCbkHgxbkwjulZnLg_aem_s4NWwDJ_dlbFAGa5FcX1Yw Keywords: Children's Wellbeing, Schools Bill, Home Education, Parental Rights, Social Services, Education Otherwise, Community Activism, Legislative Process, Family Rights, Education Policy, home education, registration, government oversight, funding, support, education policy, parental rights, diversity, advocacy

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the joys of home education, particularly focusing on the insane benefits of world schooling, learning through travel and experiences. They reflect on their own experiences with travel, how it serves as a powerful teacher for children, and the importance of contextual learning. The conversation emphasizes the value of creating relevant and engaging learning opportunities for children through real-world experiences, allowing children time to delve into their own child-led interests, and the benefits of embracing tangents in learning. The discussion emphasizes the joy of learning for its own sake and the importance of fostering a curious mindset in both children and adults and the benefit that brings us in life. Keywords: home education, experiential learning, travel, parenting, education, homeschooling, family, learning, nature, wildlife, homeschooling, learning, curiosity, education, ocean exploration, hands-on activities, flexibility in education, lifelong learning, parenting, experiential learning, worldschooling, travelling with kids.

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the evolution of home education, particularly in the UK, highlighting the significant growth of the community post-COVID. They explore the challenges and opportunities that arise from this expansion, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the core values of home education while adapting to new realities. The conversation also touches on the need for sustainability in community activities and the value of gratitude in parenting. In this conversation, Ashley Vanerio and Kelly Rigg discuss the importance of community engagement in home education, the need for support and resources for local educators, and the challenges of funding for home educators. They explore the concept of active inclusion in education, the evolving nature of the home education community, and the significance of building relationships and support networks among parents. Keywords: home education, community growth, sustainability, parenting, neurodivergent families, education evolution, gratitude, family activities, home ed community, mindset coaching, home education, community support, local resources, funding, active inclusion, homeschooling, parent relationships, educational resources, online learning, home educators

In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio explore the complexities of sensory sensitivities and not just through the eyes of neurodivergence, but the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-care in parenting as we work so hard to meet the needs of our children. They discuss how sensory overload affects family dynamics and the significance of engaging and understanding our sensory experience of the world. They discuss how overstimulation and under-stimulation - be it too much noise or being stuck at home for days, can affect focus, drive, satisfaction and emotional well-being, and emphasize the significance of recognizing personal limits and needs. Ultimately, they advocate for listening to one's body and respecting your needs as well as your children's, to foster a healthier family environment that is sustainable.

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio explore the challenges and joys of home education, the societal pressures to conform, and the importance of embracing individuality. They discuss the concept of being 'weird' as adults, the journey of stepping outside societal expectations, and the empowerment of children to embrace their uniqueness. The conversation highlights the value of play in childhood and the significance of self-care and personal growth in the context of parenting. In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio explore the complexities of modern parenting, particularly in relation to neurodiversity, the importance of outdoor play, and the shift in societal expectations of children. They discuss the significance of fostering a sense of belonging over fitting in, the challenges of instilling confidence in adolescents, and the journey towards body positivity and self-acceptance. The dialogue emphasizes the responsibility of parents to raise compassionate, critical thinkers who can navigate societal pressures and embrace their individuality.

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the theme of missing out in the context of home education. They reflect on their own school experiences, the importance of social interactions, and how home education can provide a supportive environment for children to grow and learn. The conversation emphasizes the value of relationships, boundaries, and the unique opportunities that home education offers, while also addressing common concerns parents have about their children missing out on traditional school experiences. Keywords: home education, parenting, social interactions, missing out, education experiences, boundaries, childhood memories, homeschooling, family dynamics, personal growth

Anyone who has been home educating a while will have had a conversation with someone that goes 'oh we home educate....' 'oh gosh, we did that during covid - never again!!' In this episode, Kelly Rigg & Ashley Vanerio discuss the stark differences between 2020 - a year of global fear, anxiety, trying to complete a full time job from home and suddenly schooling house bound, bored, under-stimulated kids...and what home education looks like when you get the lifestyle right. Check out Defensive to Determined series on the www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk website if you are sick of feeling defensive whenever you tell someone you home educate! Keywords: Home Education, Homeschooling, Education, Mental Health, Stigma, Judgement, Defensive, Parenting, Parenting Tools, Parenting Tricks, Primary, Secondary, Intrinsic Motivation.

Welcome back for Season 3 of The Big Home Ed Conversations. Kelly Rigg, Founder of Offroading Motherhood and Ashley Vanerio, fellow home educator and mum of 3 discuss the struggle that is trusting the process, believing all will come right in the end when we have spent our lives being told what success looks like and how many different ways we can 'fail'. Home education is an opportunity to love learning as a process, but we need to know when to tend to that learning and when to let it go wild. Keywords: Homeschooling, Home Education, Education Otherwise, Learning skills, Teaching, Development, Primary Education, Parenting, Parenting Young Children, Parenting Teens, Child Mental Health, Intrinsic Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation.

In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Wendy Charles-Warner are aiming to reassure you that whilst it is important not to panic about the implications of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, it is important to take on an advocating role. They address the anxiety surrounding the bill, the misconceptions about home education, and the statistics that highlight the quality of education and safeguarding in both home-educated and school settings. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to engage with their MPs and advocate for their rights and the well-being of their children. The discussion emphasizes the role of parents in teaching consent and critical thinking, the limitations of institutional safeguarding, and the bureaucratic challenges that come with home education. Ultimately, they encourage parents to empower themselves and engage with educational policy to ensure their children's well-being. Watch this space for more episodes about the bill as things develop! Keywords: Children's Wellbeing, Schools Bill, Home Education, Parental Rights, Advocacy, Education Quality, Safeguarding, Malicious Referrals, Regulations, Parental Involvement, home education, parental rights, safeguarding children, educational perspectives, consent education, advocacy, community support, educational policy 00:00 Introduction to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill 05:45 Challenging Misconceptions About Home Education 15:30 The Impact of Malicious Referrals 20:41 The Burden of New Regulations on Home Educators 25:51 The Importance of Parental Involvement 37:39 Exploring Unique Educational Approaches 43:30 Teaching Consent and Critical Thinking 49:08 Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Children 56:35 The Importance of Community Support

In this conversation, Ashley Vanerio and Kelly Rigg discuss their experiences for 2024 and how they have inspired them and their kids to learn and grow, focusing on various educational outings and resources. They share insights on the benefits of memberships to educational venues, the importance of experiential learning, and how to engage children in history and culture through travel. The conversation highlights the value of planning ahead for educational trips and utilizing local resources to enhance learning experiences. In this conversation, Ashley Vanerio and Kelly Rigg discuss various engaging resources and innovative approaches to homeschooling. They explore platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers and Twinkl, emphasizing the importance of creative and interactive learning materials. The discussion also covers the use of AI tools like ChatGPT for educational purposes and highlights unique gift ideas for children that promote learning. The conversation wraps up with reflections on their experiences and plans for future discussions. keywords home education, experiential learning, family activities, educational resources, membership benefits, travel learning, local events, nature exploration, cultural education, STEM activities, homeschooling, educational resources, creative learning, unit studies, teaching tools, curriculum, online resources, interactive learning, ChatGPT, holiday gifts

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley reflect on their personal growth and experiences throughout the year, discussing the challenges and successes of home education. They share stories of their children's independence, the importance of understanding neurodiversity, and the need for balance in their lives. The conversation emphasizes the significance of creating supportive environments for both parents and children, while also exploring ways to reclaim their lives through home education. In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the importance of establishing boundaries for self-care, encouraging independence in children, and the growth that comes from facing adversity. They reflect on their experiences with home education, the challenges of parenting, and the significance of finding passion and purpose in their lives. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-reflection and gratitude as they wrap up the year, highlighting the transformative moments that have shaped their journey. Keywords: home education, personal growth, neurodiversity, parenting, independence, education challenges, balance, support, family life, reflections, self-care, boundaries, independence, parenting, home education, personal growth, adversity, reflection, family, passion

In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio explore the complexities of home education, focusing on the role of routines, the challenges of neurodiversity, and the balance between structure and flexibility. They share personal experiences and insights on how to navigate these themes while catering to the diverse needs of their children. The discussion emphasizes the importance of motivation, adaptability, and the need for a tailored approach to home education that respects each family's unique dynamics. In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio explore the themes of mindfulness in parenting, the importance of structure in learning, and the need for self-compassion in the face of educational pressures. They discuss the balance between providing guidance and allowing children to explore independently, emphasizing the privilege of choice in home education. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing internal pressures and finding joy in the learning process, ultimately encouraging parents to cut themselves some slack and appreciate the journey of education. Keywords: home education, routines, neurodiversity, flexibility, motivation, learning, homeschooling, family dynamics, education strategies, parenting, mindfulness, parenting, education, structure, self-compassion, learning, balance, flexibility, gratitude, home education

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the challenges and realities of home education amidst life's chaos. They explore the importance of real-life learning experiences, the value of boredom and self-directed play, and the balance between parental involvement and children's independence. The conversation emphasizes that learning happens in various forms, not just through structured education, and highlights the significance of allowing children to engage with everyday life to develop essential life skills. In this conversation, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the challenges and strategies of parenting, particularly focusing on managing household responsibilities, screen time, and fostering creative learning in children. They share personal experiences and insights on how to involve children in household tasks, set boundaries around screen time, and reflect on daily learning activities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing that learning occurs in various forms and that parents should embrace flexibility in their educational approaches. Don't forget to subscribe! Keywords: home education, real-life learning, chaos, self-directed play, independence, life skills, boredom, parenting, education, family life, parenting, screen time, household responsibilities, creative learning, education, family dynamics, homeschooling, daily reflections, curriculum planning, child involvement

Personal Note: Myself, Kelly, and Ashley have been going through an extremely busy and tough period and it has meant that we have both found that steady guilt creeping in - where you feel like you are missing out on time with your kids, you aren't handling things well, you are losing your patience quicker, you are forgetting things, prioritising the wrong things, feeling like you should be able to do it all, all the time. Our western culture glorifies the hustle. If you aren't driving 25 miles a day minimum, cooking your kids a perfectly well rounded diet, exercising, donating to charity, heading to an activity every day for your kids whilst also keeping up a full time job, cleaning a home, being perfectly calm and patient every second - you aren't 'doing enough' and so much of the time we forget that these expectations aren't actually OURS and nor are they actually real, achievable OR essential. So often we are doing all of it to please some external message about what 'enough' is and 'success' is. This episode is pretty from the heart, a little raw and vulnerable as we discuss our recent struggles with this fine balance and how important it is to find love for yourself in the chaos and maybe CHOOSE slower to reset your intentions, even if that means disappointing other people. Follow us on Instagram: @bighomeedpodcast and do make sure to take moment to rate us and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes! Keywords: slowing down, family connection, hustle culture, self-care, intentional living, seasonal changes, expectations, mindfulness, home education, personal growth, parenting, boundaries, self-care, expectations, mental health, work-life balance, modern parenting, family dynamics, personal growth, compassion

This conversation delves into the complexities of home education rights and duties, both as parents and for our children. Kelly and Ashley chat with special guest Wendy Charles-Warner about the role of local authorities, and the importance of mutual respect in these relationships as Education Otherwise work hard to support parents, train local authorities and advise government bodies to address the inconsistencies and trust issues that are at the heart of fearful dealings with LA education departments - especially when parents are already disillusioned. Wendy Charles-Warner shares her extensive experience in home education, highlighting historical changes in laws and the current landscape of home ed rights and duties. The discussion emphasizes the need for respectful communication, understanding your legal rights, and the importance of valuing individualized education for children. A fascinating discussion and one not to be missed, whether you are new to home ed or otherwise! Join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram @bighomeedpodcast and TikTok - @banish.home.ed.burnout. Are you becoming a fan?? Register for 'The Big Home Ed Conversations: Continued' to get extra resources, insights from us as your hosts and to find out first when new episodes drop! You can register for this on our website, www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/podcast/ 00:00 Introduction to Home Education Rights01:48 Wendy's Journey in Home Education04:43 Historical Context of Home Education Laws07:37 Navigating Local Authority Relationships10:42 The Importance of Respectful Communication14:05 Understanding Local Authority Requests18:23 The Role of Local Authorities in Home Education22:36 Inconsistencies in Local Authority Practices25:52 The Need for Standardized Training29:09 Building Mutual Respect and Trust32:34 The Impact of Parental Attitudes35:03 Understanding Human Rights in Home Education39:58 Qualified Rights and Responsibilities43:04 The Role of Education in Society46:12 The Importance of Individual Learning Styles49:07 The Balance of Rights and Responsibilities52:45 The Future of Home Education Home Education Rights, Local Authorities and Home Education, Legal Rights in Home Education, Home Education Laws, Trust in Education Systems, Standardized Training for Education Authorities, Human Rights in Education, Role of Education in Society, Personalized Learning Styles.

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the challenges of navigating difficult conversations surrounding home education. They share personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of building conviction, setting boundaries, and understanding family dynamics. The conversation highlights the need for reassurance from the right sources and the significance of community support in the home education journey. They also touch on the societal norms that often challenge home educators and the importance of compassion in conversations with others. Join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram @bighomeedpodcast and TikTok - @banish.home.ed.burnout. Are you becoming a fan?? Register for 'The Big Home Ed Conversations: Continued' to get extra resources, insights from us as your hosts and to find out first when new episodes drop! You can register for this on our website, www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/podcast/ 00:00 Navigating Difficult Conversations in Home Education03:03 Personal Experiences and Family Dynamics06:03 Understanding Family Concerns and Societal Norms09:47 Setting Boundaries in Conversations12:43 Building Conviction and Seeking Reassurance15:22 The Importance of Intent in Conversations18:12 Recognizing the Goal of Conversations21:56 Handling Defensive Reactions24:33 Compassion in Conversations27:39 Finding Your Community30:53 The Journey of Home Education34:30 Reassurance Through Community Support37:35 The Growth of Conviction Over Time40:21 Final Thoughts

In this episode, Kelly Rigg and Ashley Vanerio discuss the importance of critical thinking in home education. They explore the challenges of fostering critical thinking in a world that often discourages it, share personal experiences, and emphasize the need for autonomy and self-trust in children. The conversation highlights the impact of generational beliefs and the importance of flexibility in educational approaches. Ultimately, they encourage parents to trust their instincts and make informed decisions that align with their family's values. Join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram @bighomeedpodcast and TikTok - @banish.home.ed.burnout. Are you becoming a fan?? Register for 'The Big Home Ed Conversations: Continued' to get extra resources, insights from us as your hosts and to find out first when new episodes drop! You can register for this on our website, www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/podcast/ 00:00 Introduction to Critical Thinking in Home Education 05:05 Defining Critical Thinking and Its Importance 09:57 Personal Experiences with Critical Thinking 15:05 Navigating External Opinions and Beliefs 19:58 The Role of Context in Decision Making 25:00 Encouraging Autonomy and Self-Trust in Children 30:07 The Impact of Generational Beliefs 34:57 Flexibility and Adaptability in Home Education 40:02 Building Confidence in Decision Making 45:11 Conclusion and Encouragement for Home Educators Keywords: critical thinking, home education, parenting, autonomy, self-trust, decision making, education philosophy, generational beliefs, flexibility, adaptability

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the concept of child-led learning in home education, emphasizing the importance of following children's interests and fostering their curiosity. They share personal experiences of how allowing children to explore their passions leads to deeper learning and engagement. The conversation also touches on the integration of current events into learning, the significance of special interests, and the joy of reclaiming education for both parents and children. Chapters 00:00 Embracing Child-Led Learning06:12 The Power of Interests in Education12:40 Incorporating Current Events18:27 The Importance of Curiosity25:30 Observing and Supporting Interests31:59 The Value of Special Interests38:52 Reclaiming Education Together Join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram @bighomeedpodcast and TikTok - @banish.home.ed.burnout. Are you becoming a fan?? Register for 'The Big Home Ed Conversations: Continued' to get extra resources, insights from us as your hosts and to find out first when new episodes drop! You can register for this on our website, www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/podcast/ Keywords: Child-led learning, Home education, Following children's interests, Fostering curiosity, Child-led education, Personal learning experiences, Exploring passions, Deeper learning engagement, Integrating current events, Importance of curiosity, Supporting children's interests, Special interests in education, Reclaiming education, Parental involvement in learning, Joy of learning.

Get ready for an electrifying welcome back episode!

This is a BONUS episode, Hi, this is Kelly here - co-host of The Big Home Ed Conversations. I run this workshop live regularly on my TikTok account @Banish.Home.Ed.Burnout but if you want to listen on the go, you can listen now to this clean recording made just for you! Home Education is an incredible opportunity and one that can create so much freedom and easefulness for your family, but I know as well as anyone, that it can also be a recipe for burn out! Burn out tends to look like - becoming disengaged, lacking creativity, feeling frustrated or fed up, or numb. You may find yourself not enjoying being with your kids as much, or your other relationships. You may even start to feel like you have made a mistake. I am determined to be the person who stands in your way of throwing in the towel by boosting your self belief, confidence, trust or faith in yourself and the process, by helping you to increase your joy and potential, to set better boundaries, to prioritise you alongside your kids to ensure an incredible experience for the whole family. Reach out if you would like to learn more about working with me and if you want to get your hands on Banish Home Ed Burnout itself, click here.

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the benefits of traveling with kids and the value of hands-on experiences in education. They share personal stories of their recent travels and how it has enhanced their children's learning. They also express their frustration with schools cracking down on attendance and the lack of freedom for families to make their own choices. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, play, and learning alongside children. The conversation explores the idea of incorporating different subjects into homeschooling through real-world experiences and hands-on learning. It emphasizes the importance of taking learning outside of the traditional classroom setting and allowing children to explore and engage with the world around them. The conversation also discusses the limitations of the current education system and the need for a more holistic approach to learning. The hosts encourage parents to think creatively and find ways to make learning relevant and practical for their children. Keywords traveling with kids, hands-on experiences, education, school attendance, freedom, curiosity, play, learning alongside children, homeschooling, real-world experiences, hands-on learning, traditional classroom, education system, holistic approach, creativity, practical learning

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the US school system for a compare and contrast on the UK system discussed last time. The conversation explores the flaws and limitations of the traditional school system, highlighting issues such as poor teaching, lack of support and resources, inflexibility, and missed opportunities for learning. It discusses the pressures and stress that students face, the negative messaging and social dynamics within schools, and the constant need to compare and compete. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of allowing children to be themselves, to form their own opinions and values, and to pursue their own interests and paths. It concludes by highlighting the benefits of homeschooling in providing a more individualized and flexible education that focuses on collaboration rather than competition. Keywords: US school system, extracurricular activities, college applications, school start dates, standardized testing, school system, traditional education, flaws, limitations, poor teaching, lack of support, inflexibility, missed opportunities, pressures, stress, negative messaging, social dynamics, comparison, competition, individuality, opinions, values, homeschooling, collaboration.

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley discuss the UK school system and the issues they have with it. They talk about the compulsory schooling age, the emphasis on standardized testing, the lack of play-based learning, the long hours children spend in school, and the elitism associated with academia. They also touch on the challenges faced by teachers, including large class sizes, lack of support for children with special needs, and the disillusionment and frustration many teachers experience. Overall, they highlight the need for a more flexible and inclusive education system. It discusses the pressure on students to choose their career path at a young age and the limited options available to them. The conversation also highlights the lack of support for vocational education and the negative perception of non-academic paths. The hosts express their concerns about the impact of the school system on mental health and advocate for a more flexible and inclusive approach to education. Keywords: UK school system, compulsory schooling, standardized testing, play-based learning, long hours, elitism, challenges for teachers, flexible education, school system, education, career path, vocational education, mental health

In this episode, Kelly and Ashley explore the concept of de-schooling and how traditional schooling has affected individuals as adults. They discuss the origins of schooling and the ideologies behind it, highlighting the influence of wealthy white men in history and now the affluence of the elite industrialists in how we are educated. The conversation delves into the arbitrary nature of educational standards and the need to question the current school system. The hosts recommend books that provide insights into de-schooling and the flaws of traditional education. Overall, it encourages parents to take back power and trust themselves in choosing home education. Keywords: de-schooling, traditional schooling, education, home education, curriculum, ideologies, outdoor play, educational standards, school system, origins, history, industrial leaders, government policies, limitations, frustrations, academics, practical skills, flexibility, alternative approaches, education otherwise. 00:00 Introduction to De-schooling 09:49 Questioning Educational Standards 29:30 Limitations and Frustrations of the Current Education System 36:55 The Impact of the School System on Thinking and Behaviour 44:48 Taking Back Power: Choosing Alternative Approaches to Education

In this conversation, Kelly and Ashley discuss the impact of Western culture on parenting and home education. They explore the importance of slowing down, being present, and meeting our own needs as parents, the role of technology and the challenges of balancing screen time with other activities and the need to observe and appreciate our children's natural behaviours and to create a home education / homeschooling environment that allows for flexibility and individuality. Overall, they encourage parents to prioritize pleasure, connection, and self-care in their homeschooling journey. Key words: Western culture, parenting, homeschooling, home education, slowing down, presence, needs, technology, screen time, observation, flexibility, individuality, pleasure, connection, self-care

In this conversation, Kelly and Ashley discuss the myth that home-educated kids are sheltered. They explore what people mean by sheltered and why it's important not to shelter children too much. They also discuss the possible limitations of home education and how to overcome them, including the importance of street-wiseness and resilience. Please follow us on Instagram: Kelly - @offroadingmotherhood and Ashley - @Homeschool.in.progress. Or TikTok - Kelly - @Banish.home.ed.burnout 00:00 Introduction 10:39 Debunking the Myth: Home-Educated Kids Are Not Sheltered 28:07 Embracing Diversity: Real-World Experiences of Home-Educated Children 35:58 Dispelling the Myths of Homeschooling 45:49 Teaching Children about the Real World 53:27 Addressing Socialization, Mental Health, and Body Image Keywords: home education, sheltered, limitations, diversity, street-wiseness, resilience, socialization, homeschooling, sheltering, myths, socialization, mental health, body image, education

This is such an interesting conversation, we, Kelly and Ashley, are discussing what has changed for human existence in the last 30 years - and how much of it as schooled children was it beyond our wildest dreams. Therefore, how important it is to have access to time and intrinsic curiosity to be able to explore the current day and imagine what it could be in the future. If we constantly have someone - an adult - present us with what is important to spend our time learning about, will we actually develop an ability to learn what is needed to make the future a better place? Don't forget to give us a follow on @offroadingmotherhood (Instagram and TikTok) and @homeschool.in.progress (Instagram) and come tell us what you thought of this episode! Want to make sure you never miss an episode? Don't forget to subscribe to the Offroading Motherhood Mailing List.

In this conversation, we, Kelly and Ashley, discuss the impact of limiting beliefs on home education. We explore the conflicting beliefs that parents often face and the challenges of balancing individuality with societal expectations. Overall, this conversation highlights the importance of questioning and dismantling beliefs that do not serve our home education journey. We delve into the concept of unschooling and personalized learning and talk about how we recognize and challenge our own beliefs, practice conscious parenting, and apologise when necessary. We acknowledge wholeheartedly that no parent or child is perfect and encourage self-reflection and self-compassion in the parenting journey.

This podcast is intended to be thought provoking, to give you pause and allow you to develop your own ideas, but if you could do with a bit more of a helping hand, this bonus content is how we have developed our beliefs and conviction in this area and gives ideas on how to do that for yourself. 00:00 Introduction 00:59 Internal Work and Role Modelling 04:12 Scaffolding and Celebrating 05:33 Building a Meaningful Life 06:32 Open Conversations and Honest Communication 07:01 Modelling Our Own Interests and Values 09:03 Recommended Books 21:39 Defining Success and Failure 25:02 Conclusion

Are you aware of how the messages we receive around what success and failure are in our western culture are poisoning your home education journey? Even if you spend your time objecting to them? In this episode we dive into what we believe success looks like if you can free yourself from the reigns of what others feel life 'should' be. As usual, join the conversation by reaching out on Instagram or TikTok - @offroadingmotherhood or @homeschool.in.progress, or if you find yourself wanting more support with this, send us a message at kelly@offroadingmotherhood.co.uk to enquire about my coaching & mentoring services. 00:00 Introduction 04:01 Society's Definition of Success 08:26 Personal Experiences of Success and Failure 26:26 Fear of Failure and Parenting 32:15 Defining our own version of Success and Failure 35:21 Happiness and Role Modelling 36:26 Feeling All Emotions 37:45 Conclusion

What did you believe your home education experience would look like? What were you fearful of? What did you think would be hard? What did you think would be easy? And what has the reality been? These are some of the questions we ask ourselves in this episode, getting into the real talk of what our home education experience has been and what can happen if we hold too much stock on outcomes both for ourselves and our children. Follow us at @offroadingmotherhood and @homeschool.in.progress on instagram. 00:00 Introduction 00:59 Expectations versus Reality 04:49 Balancing Structure and Playfulness 06:14 Challenges of Home Educating Multiple Children 12:16 Education Beyond 16, life-long learning 13:34 The Beauty of Learning and Embracing Curiosity 25:27 Letting Go of Expectations 32:02 The Realities of Home Education for us 35:22 The Rewards

Welcome to The Big Home Ed Conversations with your hosts Kelly Rigg, Home Education Mentor & Coach, founder of Offroading Motherhood and Ashley Vanerio, Home Educating mother of 3, ex-teacher and so insightful! This episode will tell you a bit about us, our stories as home educating mothers and why this podcast exists, what you can expect and why you should keep on listening. Tune in and come say hi!