The BIG Home Ed Conversations

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 p...

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-school...

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 ess...

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...

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—resha...

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, w...

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 em...

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 necessit...

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...

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 enga...

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...

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 u...

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 ch...

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 ed...

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-stimulat...

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 l...

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 safegua...

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 convers...

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 paren...

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 motivatio...

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...

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...

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 th...

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 educatio...

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 e...