Dive deep with us–into the idea that conventional schools might be contributing to the very struggles many people associate with dyslexia. I’m joined by Je’anna Clements, an advocate for self-directed learning and a dyslexic learner herself, to discuss her eye-opening perspective on DYSlexia (school-created) vs. dyslexia (a neurotype).
Je’anna explains how conventional interventions often offer “helpful harm,” leading to poorer outcomes than self-directed educational approaches for dyslexic learners. She shares how shifting our perspective allows all children to thrive in learning in ways that truly honor their unique needs. We also explore the powerful connections between felt-safety, self-determination theory, flow in learning, and consent—and how these elements are key to fostering meaningful, lifelong learning.
We also dive into the idea of “inherent wisdom”—the concept that children already possess what they need to find their own learning solutions. Je’anna shares her perspective on how self-directed learning, rooted in trust and understanding, can help children mature in their own ways—especially those who’ve been labeled as “dyslexic.”
This conversation challenges conventional educational norms and invites us to rethink how we approach learning, reading, and the holistic development and respect of children.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The difference between DYSlexia (school-created) and dyslexia (a neurotype)
- Why some common reading interventions might actually be harmful
- How felt-safety, self-determination, and flow impact learning
- The role of consent in a child’s learning process
- The importance of connecting learning to a child’s innate interests and curiosity
- Why trusting your child’s natural learning process can be the key to thriving in home education
Je'anna Clements
Je’anna is an advocate for young people’s rights, a writer, a mother of two who have both self-educated since birth, and a founding member of Riverstone Village, Africa’s first Sudbury-inspired learning community. She writes articles and e-books on alternative education including Help! My Kid Hates School! and the Helping The Butterfly Hatch series of books on Self-Directed Education facilitation. Book One – How Does Self-Directed Education Work, and Why? and Book Two – How Can We Best Support Young People In SDE are available as e-books, and more volumes in the series as well as print versions are forthcoming.
connect with Je'anna
Other resources mentioned
90-Minute School Day Guide Training™:
If this conversation resonated with you, and you’re looking for guidance, structure, and support in creating a self-directed learning environment that truly works for your family, Guide Training™ is here to help. This group coaching program provides personalized mentorship, community, and tools to help you break free from the constraints of traditional schooling and build a thriving homeschool experience.
Enrollment is open now through March 18th!
Learn more and sign up here: https://90minuteschoolday.com/guide-training/
Additional Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
- What if School Creates Dyslexia? by Je’anna Clements
- Free to Learn by Peter Gray
- Successful Illiterate Men study by Roger A. Clark
- The Art of Receiving and Giving: the Wheel of Consent by Betty Marin
At the end of the day, trust your instincts and explore alternatives to what isn’t working!
I’d love to connect personally, find me on Instagram.
You’re doing a great job, let’s make it easier
Kelly
Be Featured on the Podcast!
The 90-Minute School Day™ podcast aims to support all homeschooling families with a focus on neurodiverse families, with learning differences and unique learning styles. Be featured on the podcast by sharing your story, struggle or asking your question here. Or leave your recording by clicking the mic below.
