The BIG Home Ed Conversations

Breaking Free from Sit Down Culture: Movement, Mindset & Real-Life Learning in Home Education

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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!

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      The BIG Home Ed ConversationsBy Kelly Rigg & Ashley Vanerio