The pressure to “do more” in homeschooling is constant—cover more subjects, check more boxes, keep up with the pace of everyone else.
But what if all that rushing is the very thing keeping kids (and parents) from real learning?
In this episode, Leslie Martino, author of The Joy of Slow, pushes back on the myths of falling behind and faster is better. She explains why slowing down is not about doing less, but about creating the space where values, curiosity, and connection can actually take root.
Highlights include:
- What “slow” really means—and what it doesn’t
- How descriptive inquiry shifts the focus from what’s wrong to what’s working
- Why reflection is the missing step between information and wisdom
- How routines, projects, and flexibility create homes where learning flourishes
This episode continues the five-part Start Where You Are series, following the conversation on grief and meaning-making we began in Episode 48. Both episodes pair together to reveal the same truth: meaning is never found in speed—it’s found in slowing down enough to notice.
Listen to the other episodes in the “Starting Where You Are” series:
leslie Martino
Leslie is an educator, homeschool coach, and writer with over 20 years of experience in education. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and later taught graduate courses on the role of teachers in supporting children’s individual work preferences. A longtime advocate of descriptive inquiry, Leslie values reflective practices that deepen our understanding of children and their capacities. Today she homeschools her four children, organizes learning groups, and works as an educational consultant—writing curriculum, training teachers, and coaching parents. She also writes about homeschooling, motherhood, and intentional living, and shares her love of natural health as a Pilates instructor.
Connect with Leslie
Resources and Support
- Join the Day in the Life Community – do homeschool life alongside a supportive collective of other homeschooling parents learning together as we raise our beautifully wired kids.
- Kelly offers one-on-one coaching and a self-paced course on the 90-Minute School Day method.
- There is also Guide Training™, a live group learning environment, for those who prefer community learning.
- 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.
