The BIG Home Ed Conversations

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.