In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Hughes, a homeschooling mother of nine, Wild + Free contributor, and writer whose words have resonated with many seeking a more intuitive, flexible approach to education.
Amy shares the journey that brought her to unschooling and the mindset shift encapsulated in her catch phrase, “Curriculum is for the uninspired days.”
Together, we explore the freedom that unschooling offers and the role that curriculum plays on those days when inspiration seems to run dry. Amy’s candid reflections on the challenges and triumphs of homeschooling a large family, and her insights into honoring each child’s individual path, will inspire listeners whether they’re just starting out or are seasoned home educators.
What You’ll Learn:
- View Curriculum as a Tool: Curriculum is one resource among many. It shouldn’t become a daily crutch, but rather a support for those uninspired days when direction is needed.
- Connection is Key: The heart of homeschooling is building strong relationships and fostering connection with your children. This is what truly drives learning and growth.
- Overcome Overwhelm: If traditional methods are too rigid, remember to approach homeschooling with flexibility and creativity. Simplify the process to avoid burnout.
- Respect Your Child’s Interests: Learning happens naturally when we allow our children the space to explore their curiosities. Use curriculum sparingly as a support system, not a rigid plan.
- Let Go of Perfection: There is no “right” way to homeschool. Each family is unique, and the journey is about finding what works for you and your children.
- Find Balance: On those uninspired days, curriculum can help give structure, but the key is to remain flexible and not let it dictate the flow of learning.
Amy Hughes
Amy is mama to 9 who lives on the coast of California. She is a writer for Wild + Free and has been published in Simplify Magazine, (in)Courage, The Fallow House, and Scary Mommy, among other places. She is also a speaker, Christian parenting coach, and an author whose first book will be published in Fall 2025.
You can find Amy on Instagram @simplelittleamy or connect with her on her website simplelittleamy.com
Resources and Support
- The Instagram Reel that inspired the episode: watch here.
- Learn about Guide Training™, a live group learning environment, to begin or deepen your deschooling, offered twice a year.
- Join Day In The Life Community! If you’re an eclectic homeschooler or unschooler looking for daily community and support, this is for you. Connect with fellow homeschooling parents weekly on Zoom and daily in small groups. Share your homeschooling journey, overcome fears, celebrate successes, and find the resources you need to build relationships, understanding, and connection.
- Kelly offers one-on-one coaching and a self-paced course on the 90-Minute School Day method.
- Listen to or invite Kelly to speak about the 90-Minute School Day™ .
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.
