The BIG Home Ed Conversations

In this powerful episode of the BIG Home Ed Conversations Podcast, Kelly and Ashley sit down with author, educator and neurodivergent advocate Helen Daniel to unpack ableism in the education system through the lens of SEND and neurodivergence. Drawing on Helen’s experience as a teacher, academic and author of Neurosensory Divergence: Autistic Languages, they explore how a system built on standardisation often fails autistic and otherwise neurodivergent children – and what more equitable, sensory-aware education could look like, both in school and in home ed. Together they dive into: How curriculum changes and raised targets (times tables, Shakespeare, early formal writing) pushed more neurodivergent children “outside the norm.” Why standardisation is the enemy of equity – and why one-size-fits-all schooling doesn’t work for diverse brains. EHCPs, SEND provision and why the system feels broken for so many families. Sensory profiles, overload and meltdowns: what’s really going on beneath “behaviour.” Practical examples of small, powerful accommodations (movement, video learning, headphones, flexible seating.) How home ed groups can unintentionally replicate ableism – and how to design more inclusive spaces. Teaching all children (ND and NT) compassion, curiosity and respect for different needs. This is a validating, eye-opening listen for: Parents of autistic, ADHD, PDA or otherwise neurodivergent children. Home educating families navigating SEND needs. Teachers who feel the system is wrong but don’t know how to change it. Any parent wanting to raise more compassionate, neuro-affirming kids. Guest Spotlight: Find Helen’s book Neurosensory Divergence: Autistic Languages in all the usual places for a deeper dive into sensory processing, autistic communication and building truly equitable lives for autistic children. Find Helen at https://outsidetheboxsensory.com/ or on social media @otbsensory. (New website coming soon though!) Join the conversation: Has this episode resonated with your family’s experience of SEND or neurodivergence? Share your stories or questions with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or head to the blog www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/blog for more resources and episode notes. Keywords: SEND and ableism, neurodivergent children, autism and education, EHCPs UK, sensory needs in school, home education UK, inclusive home ed, trauma-informed education, alternative education, autistic-friendly learning, neurosensory divergence

In this episode of the BIG Home Ed Conversations Podcast, Kelly and Ashley dive deep into the often-unspoken topic of prejudice within the home educating community. From unschooling vs. curriculum-based approaches, to faith, politics, socioeconomic status, and cultural backgrounds, they unpack the subtle (and not-so-subtle) biases that can create divides among home educators. With real-life stories, honest reflections, and a healthy dose of empathy, they explore: Why different home ed methods spark debate (unschooling, project-based, curriculum-led, eclectic) How faith, politics, and culture shape our perspectives—and how to honour differences Socioeconomic barriers, privilege, and the importance of compassion over comparison The risks of judgement and the power of community support Practical tips for recognising and challenging your own biases Whether you’re a seasoned home edder or just starting out, this episode is a call to celebrate individuality, question assumptions, and create a more welcoming, diverse, and resilient home education community. Book Spotlight: This week, we’re recommending Wonder by R.J. Palacio—a moving story about difference, kindness, and the courage to stand out. It’s a brilliant way to open up conversations about prejudice, empathy, and the importance of welcoming everyone, no matter how different they may seem. Support the Podcast and the environment, get it from World of Books Now: https://tidd.ly/4i0oMg3.  Join the conversation: Has this topic resonated with you? Share your experiences or questions with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or visit our blog for more resources and episode notes. Keywords: home education UK, home ed prejudice, unschooling vs curriculum, diversity in home education, home education community, challenging bias, inclusive homeschooling, home ed support, alternative education, neurodivergent families

In this powerful episode of the Big Home Ed Conversations Podcast, Kelly and Ashley sit down with Atlanta-based educator, tech specialist, and author Chris Linder—founder of Homeschool Remix—to dig deep into what real diversity and inclusion can look like in home education. Chris brings a wealth of lived experience, working with all families, but especially Black, Brown, Indigenous, and marginalized families to create flexible, hybrid homeschooling solutions that fit real life—not just the “ideal” often seen online. Together, we explore why representation in education matters, how to actively include all voices, and the practical barriers many families face in both the UK and US. This episode covers: Chris’s unique journey from radio DJ to teacher, tech expert, and home education advocate. What “hybrid homeschooling” really means—and why it’s a lifeline for diverse and working families. The invisible barriers and stigmas that keep home education feeling out of reach for many. Why representation and critical thinking are essential—at home and in the curriculum. The chilling reality of banned books, whitewashing, and whose stories get told in schools. How to start tough conversations about race, privilege, ableism, and identity with your kids. Practical, honest advice for making home education accessible (even on a tight budget). The “folding chair” philosophy: if there’s no seat at the table, bring your own—and build community. Plus: Why critical thinking—not just travel—is the antidote to prejudice. Book recommendations for building empathy and perspective at home: Our recommendation this week is Ghost by Jason Reynolds - get it here from World of Books. We’re recommending Ghost by Jason Reynolds to accompany this episode because it’s a powerful, accessible novel that tackles themes of race, poverty, resilience, and belonging through the eyes of a young Black boy navigating life’s challenges. Ghost’s story offers a window into experiences often underrepresented in mainstream curricula, making it a brilliant conversation starter for families wanting to build empathy, discuss diversity, and see the world from a different perspective. It’s an engaging, fast-paced read that encourages critical thinking, compassion, and honest conversations about what it means to find your place in the world—perfect for the heart of today’s discussion. How to join Chris’s “Seat Squad” community for ongoing support: Head to www.homeschoolremix.com to grab Chris’s book, 'Homeschool Remix' and join his community. Listener invitation: We want your voices! Have you faced barriers, prejudice, or found creative ways to make home education work for your family? Share your story or question with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or visit our blog at offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/blog to join the conversation. We’d love to feature your lived experience in a future episode.

Welcome back to Season 4 of the Big Home Ed Conversations Podcast! In this new “Changing Perspectives” series, Kelly and Ashley dive into the big, sometimes uncomfortable, but always essential conversations about diversity, inclusion, and breaking out of our bubbles as home educating families. This season is all about stretching our thinking—beyond our own lived experiences, beliefs, and backgrounds—to raise kids who are compassionate, curious, and ready to thrive in a diverse world. We’re opening the door to voices and stories we might not hear in our everyday circles, and asking the questions that really matter: Who isn’t represented in our community? How can we make home education more welcoming and accessible? What does true belonging look like for all families? In this kickoff episode, you’ll hear: Why we’re making space for new perspectives and lived experiences in home ed. Honest reflections on privilege, accessibility, and the myths of home education. The importance of teaching our kids to step into someone else’s shoes—whether it’s about race, religion, disability, gender, family structure, or life circumstances. Our hopes for this series: More empathy, more critical thinking, and more real conversations at home. Book recommendations and practical ways to start these conversations with your own children. How YOU can get involved by sharing your stories, questions, or lived experiences (see below!) PLUS: Our honest review of Outschool after a summer of classes—what worked, what didn’t, and a special discount code for listeners (details in the episode!). Listener Invitation: We want your voices and stories! Visit the blog at offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/blog for a list of upcoming topics, or message us directly on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast. If you have a personal experience, question, or comment about diversity, inclusion, or belonging in home education, send it our way—we’d love to read it on air (anonymously if you prefer). What’s coming up: Throughout this season, expect open-hearted conversations with authors, experts, real voices and home educators from all walks of life. We’ll tackle tough topics: prejudice and privilege, whitewashing in education, banned books, gender and sexuality, ableism, neurodiversity, and more. Each episode will include a book recommendation for you and your kids—perfect for expanding your family’s bookshelf and worldview. Let’s break the cycle of “fixed facts” and automatic assumptions, and raise kids who know that every voice matters—including their own.

In this special Book Club episode, Ashley Vanerio dives into The Four-Hour School Day—a practical, encouraging guide for new and seasoned home educators alike. Written by veteran homeschool mum of eight, Durenda Wilson, this book challenges the myth that learning at home needs to look like the 8am–4pm school grind.   Ashley shares her honest first impressions (including a heads-up about the book’s strong Christian perspective), and why this title is still packed with value for all home ed families—religious or not. From the realities of how little time home learning actually takes, to the importance of rhythm, consistency, and nurturing relationships, Ashley explores the book’s most helpful themes: Why “less is more” in home education—and how you can get more done in less time The difference between “socialization” and “socializing” (and how to answer the dreaded question!) How to avoid comparison traps and build a home ed life that fits your unique family The power of following your child’s passions and letting go of schoolish pressure Encouragement for parents: you don’t need a teaching degree, just trust, time, and connection Ashley highlights her favourite chapters, shares honest reactions, and explains why this book makes a great confidence booster for new home educators—or a gentle resource to hand to sceptical family members.   Ready to read?   Grab it from Amazon or Waterstones or any other retailer!   Have you read The Four-Hour School Day? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or let us know what you think of this review!   Next up for Book Club: Hunt, Gather, Parent—what ancient cultures can teach us about raising happy, helpful kids. Stay tuned for more short, honest reviews and practical home ed inspiration. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave us a review or share with a friend! Follow us over on TikTok or Instagram @BIGHomeEdPodcast   

This week, Ashley pops in solo to launch something new and fun for our community—the BIG Home Ed Book Club! Think bite-sized, practical reflections you can listen to on a walk, while folding laundry, or between activities.   In this intro, Ashley: Shares why we’re starting a book club now (hello accountability and actually finishing the gems on our shelves) Walks through the books on her current list and why they matter for home-educating families Explains how the series will work: short recaps, key takeaways, surprises, and who each book is best for—even if you don’t read along! Books mentioned The Four-Hour School Day by Durenda Wilson — Next week’s pick! The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Untangled by Lisa Damour The Case for Make-Believe by Susan Linn Between by Sarah Ockwell-Smith Hold On to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld and Gabor Maté Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings by Dr. Laura Markham The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie Let Them Be Kids by Jessica Smartt Raising Critical Thinkers by Julie Bogart What’s next Read along: The Four-Hour School Day by Durenda Wilson Ashley will share a practical, no-fluff recap next week: big ideas, what surprised her, and how to apply it in real life Why this series will help Quick refreshers so the good stuff actually sticks Support for parents at different stages—from little years to tweens and teens Curated, relevant reads for UK home ed families (and beyond) Links Read-Aloud Revival: readaloudrevival.com (book lists, podcast, family book club) Follow us on TikTok and Instagram: @bighomeedpodcast Podcast page: www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/podcast If you’re new here This is a bonus mini-episode. For our usual conversations, start with earlier episodes to get a feel for our style and mission! In the mean time don't forget to: Subscribe so you don’t miss the first book club review! Share this episode with a home ed friend who loves a good book stack! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help others find us!! Keywords: home education, homeschooling, book club, home ed resources, Durenda Wilson, The Four-Hour School Day, parenting books, tween parenting, read-alouds, Julie Bogart, UK home education

Newly deregistered or just beginning your home ed journey this September? You’re in the right place. In the final episode of the “Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed” series, Kelly Rigg (home education mindset coach and co-host of the BIG Home Ed Conversations Podcast) shares a calm, practical 90‑day plan to help you find your feet without recreating school at home. Kelly’s simple three-Rs framework: Regulate: Lower stress by meeting basic needs first—breath, water, food, sleep, movement, and sensory decompression. Expect dysregulation after leaving school; make space for it. Reconnect: Rebuild trust and joy with 10 minutes of undivided attention, low-pressure outings, and child-led choices. Get their buy-in before booking clubs to avoid resentment. Read the room (Observe): Light-touch notes on what lights them up, what frustrates them, and where you connect. Spot patterns and gently follow their rabbit holes—without overengineering and killing the spark. You’ll learn:  Why the early 'mess' is normal—and how to reduce overwhelm fast! How to balance your needs with theirs (boundaries and compromises that work.) What to do if your kids ask to go back to school (and why that feeling is common.) How much “education time” you actually need (hint: far less than a school day!) Permission slips: it’s okay to pause, scrap a plan, or write off a day (or longer!) Focus on meeting those needs, reconnecting and noticing and you will lay the best foundations for your home ed journey. Helpful resources: Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed Workbook and the First 30 Days of Home Ed calendar (daily prompts to regulate, reconnect, and observe): www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/work-with-me What’s up next:  Ashley’s Book Club mini-series kicks off next week! Your chance to find out what we have been loving reading lately! Season 4 (Fresh Perspectives) starts early October with inspiring guests and conversations that stretch curiosity and empathy towards individuals in our diverse communities who are seriously under-represented in education. Subscribe now to make sure you don't miss it! Join the conversation:Are you just starting out or still have questions? Share with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast. Keywords: home education UK, starting home education, first 90 days home ed, deschooling, home education mindset, deregistration UK, home ed routine, neurodivergent home education, gentle parenting, unschooling principles

Feeling the urge to buy new pens or lunchboxes—even though your kids aren’t going “back to school”? You’re not alone! In this heartfelt episode, Kelly and Ashley dive deep into the rituals and traditions that sneak into home education, and how social conditioning around “back-to-school” can trigger anxiety, guilt, or FOMO—even for seasoned home ed families. We unpack: Why back-to-school shopping and new routines tug at our emotions (even when we know we don’t need them) The difference between meaningful family traditions and habits that are just social pressure in disguise How to create authentic, empowering rituals that suit your unique home ed lifestyle Letting go of external judgment, performance anxiety, and the need to “keep up” Practical ways to build core memories and intentional family traditions—without the overwhelm Plus, we share real-life stories, gentle mindset shifts, and plenty of laughs about muddy camping clothes, first impressions, and the power of saying “no” to unnecessary expectations. This summer, Outschool have offered us a sponsored opportunity to use—and honestly review—their learning platform right here on the podcast. Go listen to what we have to say! If you’d like to take advantage of the offer we mention, head to www.outschool.com/HOMEED and use code HOMEED35 to get $35 off your family’s first month! Perfect for home educating parents in the UK (and beyond!) who want to break free from school-based conditioning, trust their instincts, and build a home ed life that feels good all year round. Let us know: What rituals or pressures are you letting go of this year? Drop us a message on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast!

Are you about to start home education and feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, routines, and expectations? You’re not alone! In this episode of the Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed series, Kelly Rigg (home educating mum, mindset coach, and podcast co-founder) talks honestly about the realities of transitioning into home ed life—especially how to create a routine that actually works for your whole family, not just your kids.   We explore: Why home education is a lifestyle shift, not just an education decision How to factor in YOUR needs, ambitions, and well-being (not just your child’s) The truth about time, structure, and finding balance as a home ed parent Why “busy” isn’t always better—and how to avoid hustle culture and burnout The power of intrinsic learning, curiosity, and letting go of school-based routines Practical tips for building a rhythm that feels good for everyone, including you You’ll also hear about Kelly’s own journey (and mistakes!), why it’s okay to use the national curriculum as a starting point, and how to gently question what really matters most for your family. Plus, get reassurance that it’s normal to feel unsteady—and that you’re allowed to slow down, say no, and make space for your own growth and happiness.   Mentioned in this episode: The “Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed” workbook (journaling prompts & self-reflection tools) The “First 30 Days of Home Ed” calendar (gentle daily prompts for a soft landing—grab it from the Offroading Motherhood website) Free 30-minute coaching chat with Kelly for parents who want extra support You can grab all of these from www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/work-with-me   If you’re struggling to balance everyone’s needs or worried you’ll lose yourself in the process, this episode will help you breathe, reset, and step into home ed with more confidence and clarity. Ready to build a home ed life that works for all of you? Share your thoughts, questions, or routines with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast—or book a free chat with Kelly today!

Thinking about home education but feeling overwhelmed by doubts, legal questions, or worries about what others will think? You’re not alone! In this episode, Kelly and Ashley get real about the most common roadblocks families face when starting (or even just considering) their home ed journey—from legalities and partner hesitations to social pressure, money worries, and the myth that you need to replicate school at home. We discuss: Is home education really legal in the UK (and beyond)? How to get confident about the rules Navigating partner, family, and friend scepticism—especially when no one around you “gets it” The fear of “ruining” your child’s education, missing out on socialisation, or not being “qualified” Why you don’t need to replicate school at home (and how much time home ed actually takes) The realities of working, budgeting, and fitting in self-care as a home educating parent How to handle awkward questions from strangers and the pressure to justify your choices The importance of building a supportive community and trusting your instincts Plus, we share our own stories—honest moments of doubt, funny run-ins with “concerned” strangers, and what finally helped us move past the biggest mental and practical barriers.   This summer, Outschool have offered us a sponsored opportunity to use—and honestly review—their learning platform right here on the podcast. Go listen to what we have to say! If you’d like to take advantage of the offer we mention, head to www.outschool.com/HOMEED and use code HOMEED35 to get $35 off your family’s first month!   Whether you’re just researching, feeling stuck, or already on your home ed journey but hitting new hurdles, this episode will help you breathe, reframe your worries, and find practical ways forward.   Remember: most “roadblocks” are just questions waiting for honest answers—and you’re allowed to do things differently.   Resources mentioned: Mindset coaching and support (with Kelly) - go to www.offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/work-with-me  Real-life examples and encouragement from the home ed community What’s the biggest roadblock on your mind right now? DM us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast and let’s talk about it!

Ever wonder how home educating families actually plan, stay flexible, and fit everything in—without burning out? In this episode, Kelly and Ashley spill their real-life “home ed secrets,” sharing what planning looks like for seasoned (and sometimes scatterbrained!) home educators, how to stay creative without getting overwhelmed, and why flexibility is the true superpower for families learning outside the system.   We chat about: Why planning as a home educator looks nothing like school—and why that’s a good thing! How to use frameworks (like the UK national curriculum or US grade-level guides) without getting boxed in Balancing structure and spontaneity—so you don’t lose your mind (or your creativity) The power of following your child’s interests and letting go of perfection How to handle “rabbit holes,” project-based learning, and the endless questions that spark real learning Tips for planning non-academic parts of your day—like routines, family values, and self-care Why it’s totally normal (and healthy!) for your approach to evolve over time or even get completely scrapped and started over again This summer, Outschool have offered us a sponsored opportunity to use—and honestly review—their learning platform right here on the podcast. Go listen to what we have to say! If you’d like to take advantage of the offer we mention, head to www.outschool.com/HOMEED and use code HOMEED35 to get $35 off your family’s first month!   Whether you’re a new home educator, an unschooler, or just looking to refresh your planning style, this episode is packed with practical tips, gentle reassurance, and plenty of laughs about what really works (and what doesn’t) when you’re learning at home.    Resources mentioned: UK national curriculum and US grade-level “What Your ___ Grader Needs to Know” books. AI and creative planning tools Our honest experiences with Outschool classes for SEND and neurodivergent children What’s your biggest planning headache or home ed win? Share your thoughts or questions with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast—or send us a message to help shape future episodes!

Are you asking yourself, “Why am I doing this?” as you step into home education? You’re not alone!   In this episode of the Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed summer series, Kelly Rigg (mindset coach, home ed mum, and co-host of the BIG Home Ed Conversations Podcast) helps you dig deep into the real reasons behind your home ed decision—and how to turn your hopes, fears, and family dreams into a philosophy that actually works for you.   We explore: The most common questions and worries parents have when starting home education (social life, exams, university, family pressure, and more) How to clarify your motivations—whether it’s about lifestyle, flexibility, travel, wellbeing, or simply wanting something different for your family Why your reasons are valid (even if they’re not what you expected!) The importance of visualising your “perfect day” and weaving home ed naturally into family life How to set realistic expectations (vs. reality!) and embrace flexibility when things don’t go to plan The value of writing down your hopes and dreams for your kids, your family, and yourself A gentle introduction to popular home education philosophies: unschooling (John Holt), Charlotte Mason, Montessori, Ken Robinson, Peter Gray, Ivan Illich, Julie Bogart, and more—plus tips for blending approaches to suit your unique family Practical resources mentioned: The Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed Workbook (with prompts for self-reflection and family discussion) – head to offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/work-with-me Free 30-minute clarity call with Kelly for parents who want extra support or just need a sounding board Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, overwhelmed, or all three, this episode will help you get clear on your “why,” explore what really matters to you, and start building a home ed journey that’s grounded in your own values—not just what everyone else expects.   What’s your “why” for home educating? Share your thoughts or questions with Kelly on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or reach out for a free clarity call. You don’t have to figure this out alone!

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just a bit “meh” about home education right now? You’re not alone! In this honest episode, Kelly and Ashley dive deep into the reality of home ed slumps—those periods when motivation dips, life gets in the way, and routines seem impossible to maintain.   We chat about: Why home ed slumps happen (burnout, big life events, travel, illness, family stress, or just plain old exhaustion) The emotional rollercoaster of home educating—especially for neurodivergent families and parents juggling work, home, and learning How “real life” IS learning: from moving house to camping trips, grief, or just catching up on laundry, your kids are still growing and learning every day Guilt, comparison, and the myth of “falling behind”—and why schools aren’t as non-stop as you might think! Practical strategies for easing back into routines: starting small, building momentum, and letting go of perfection The power of noticing the little wins (and a little hack for noticing the positives!) When to switch things up: changing subjects, trying new approaches, or simply giving everyone a break Plus: Why home education doesn’t have to look like school at home The importance of self-compassion, flexibility, and adjusting your expectations (for yourself and your kids) How to use “real life” as curriculum, and why every conversation, walk, or pancake breakfast counts Listener shout-out: If you’ve been binge-listening or found our chats helpful, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it really helps us reach more home ed families! And if you’re climbing out of a slump (or still deep in one), let us know what’s helped you—or if you badly need some help right now - send us a message on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or drop us a line for a bit of solidarity.

Thinking about home education but feeling overwhelmed by doubts, fears, or pushback from others? You’re not alone! In this bonus episode, Kelly Rigg (home ed mum, mindset coach, and founder of Offroading Motherhood) kicks off the “Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed” series with a deep dive into the mindset shifts every new home educating parent needs to make.   We’ll talk about: Why “de-schooling” yourself (and your kids) is the essential first step How to spot and challenge the beliefs holding you back—like “sitting down is the only way to learn” or “I’m not qualified” The real-life journey from school/nursery stress to thriving at home (even if you’re starting from scratch, or feeling scared!) How to handle doubts, fears, and family resistance—and why it’s normal to feel all the feelings Practical steps: deregistration, legal rights, and what to expect from the local authority Why you don’t have to recreate school at home (and what to do instead) The power of reconnecting with your child, observing their needs, and letting your home ed journey evolve Resource: Download the “Get Your Head Straight to Home Ed” workbook for self-reflection prompts, practical checklists, and family conversation starters: offroadingmotherhood.co.uk/work-with-me   Listener homework: Stick a piece of paper on your fridge and jot down every doubt, fear, or question that pops up about home ed—no judgment, just awareness. Notice the stories in your head and start asking “why?” (Kelly shares how this simple exercise transformed her own journey.)   Ready for support? Connect with Kelly for coaching, reassurance, or just a friendly chat on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or via WhatsApp through her website.

Is “sit down and focus” really the best way for kids to learn? In this lively episode, Kelly and Ashley dig into the myths and realities of “sit down culture” in education—and why home educators are uniquely positioned to break free from it.   We explore: The hidden costs of sit-down, desk-based learning (especially for neurodivergent kids) Why movement, play, and hands-on experiences are essential for real learning and regulation How “real life” moments—like reading menus, counting on walks, or exploring local foods—build reading, maths, and critical thinking skills The science behind learning through play (and why it’s so much more effective than worksheets!) Practical tips for weaving movement and creativity into every subject—even the “desk” ones like reading, writing, and maths The power of daily rhythm over strict schedules (hello, Charlotte Mason!) Why it’s okay if your home ed day looks nothing like school—and how to silence the guilt when you ditch the desk Plus: Real talk about parental needs, self-regulation, and why your well-being matters too Stories from Montessori, alternative schooling, and the world’s most creative thinkers—proving that movement and curiosity build the best minds Listener question: Do you ever feel pressured to “make them sit down and do school”? What helps you break the mould?   Share your stories or tips with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast, or send us a message for some solidarity!

Is artificial intelligence (AI) a helpful tool for home educators—or a shortcut that risks critical thinking? In this lively episode (more like debate), Kelly and Ashley dig into the real pros and cons of using AI (like ChatGPT) in home education, sharing personal experiences, practical tips, and honest concerns.   We cover: How AI can streamline planning, spark creativity, and save time for busy home ed parents (think: instant topic ideas, bedtime stories, personalized lesson plans, and more) Why clear, thoughtful prompts are the secret to getting useful results from AI (and how to avoid the “rubbish” outputs!) The debate: does using AI for research or writing undermine kids’ learning—or is it just the next step after Google and Wikipedia? Concerns about plagiarism, loss of patience, and the temptation to let AI “do the thinking” for us (and how to balance tech with real-world skills) Creative ways to use AI with kids: generating custom stories, social scripts, activity ideas, and even coloring pages Why AI can be a neuroaffirming, inclusive tool—especially for children who struggle with handwriting or need learning adapted to their interests The importance of using tech intentionally: reclaiming your time for rest, connection, and slowing down—not just squeezing more into your day Listener tip: If you’re curious about using AI in your home ed journey, start small and play around! Ask it to help with lesson ideas, simplify tricky topics, or create custom stories for your kids. But remember: the goal isn’t to do more, faster—it’s to make your life easier and your learning more joyful.   Join the conversation:This has been a very controversial subject! How are you using (or avoiding) AI in your home education?   Share your thoughts or questions with us on Instagram or TikTok @bighomeedpodcast—or drop us a message if you’d like a deeper workshop on making AI work for your family.

In this episode, Kelly Rigg & Ashley Vanerio chat to Luna Flowerday—radical unschooler, worldschooler, and inspiring mum of three—who is currently traveling the world with her husband and children.   Luna’s journey started with a bold leap into bus life during Covid, while pregnant and with a toddler in tow. What began as a necessity has become years of adventure, joy, and challenge—reshaping her family’s outlook on life, learning, and what’s truly possible beyond the usual social constructs.   We dive into: The truths about worldschooling and radical unschooling (from someone living it right now!) Luna’s story: from starting out on the road to building a life of freedom and connection How little you really need in order to travel full-time with kids (and why it costs less than you think) Work-from-home ideas and creative ways to fund your journey The practicalities: packing light, staying regulated as a family, and overcoming fears Why worldschooling is more achievable and possible than most people imagine—with a bit of imagination, perseverance, and willingness to ditch the “shoulds” Parenting tips, travel hacks, and the real challenges and joys of learning through life on the road Whether you’re a home educator, a travel dreamer, or just curious about alternative ways to live and learn, this episode will open your mind to what’s possible. If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the routine and living life on your own terms, Luna’s story is sure to inspire you.   Follow us for more real-life home ed conversations: TikTok & Instagram: @bighomeedpodcast Follow Luna: @lunaflowerday Want to learn more or make this lifestyle a reality? Check out Luna’s resources and guides: https://stan.store/LunaFlowerday   See you next week for an impromptu debate between myself and Ashley about the use of AI in home education! Eeek! That was so much fun to record—can’t wait to hear your thoughts.

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