90-Minute School Day

Ep. 40 - Drop the Shame: The Other Side of Screens with Amanda Diekman

“I did everything they tell you, and I did it perfectly—and it failed me and almost destroyed my child.”— Amanda Diekman, author of Low Demand Parenting
 
Amanda re-joins the podcast (Ep. 13) for a conversation that challenges everything you’ve been taught to fear about screentime. 
 
This episode was recorded live inside 90-Minute School Day In The Life (DITL) homeschool community, where Amanda dropped in straight from the soccer field and jumped into a vulnerable, grounded discussion about screens, shame, and agency.
 
Together, we explore:
Amanda’s story and why screentime is never just about screentime
The hidden cost of control and the harm of “doing it right”
What it means to trust your child with their own self-regulation
The deep nervous system work involved in loosening limits and dropping demands
How unlimited screentime can foster real-life skills, body awareness, and discernment
What happens when we stop managing the screen and start supporting the human using it
 
You’ll also hear anonymized responses from DITL community members about how screentime looks in their homes—showcasing the rich diversity of approaches, and the shared heart of parents trying to lead with love.
 
This is Part 2 in our 4-part Tech & Learning series, so make sure to check out the other episodes where we explore mindsets, boundaries, using AI in our homeschools, play, and learning in the digital age.
 
🔗 Links & Resources:
Learn more about Amanda Diekman on her website
Get Amanda’s book: Low Demand Parenting
Listen to Amanda's first conversation with us in Episode 13 of the podcast, "Don't Let Demands Overwhelm You: Less is More"
Read Kelly’s story and approach: 90minuteschoolday.com/story
Join the DITL interest list: 90minuteschoolday.com/day-in-the-life
Get on the waitlist for Guide Training™: 90minuteschoolday.com/guide-training
Book 1:1 coaching with Kelly: 90minuteschoolday.com/coaching
 
💬 Leave a Review
Loving the podcast? Share with a friend. Take a moment to rate and review the show—it helps other thoughtful, brave, and curious parents discover this space and feel less alone.
 

Ep. 39 - Screens Aren't the Enemy: Disconnection is!

If the word “screens" or "screen time” makes your shoulders tense up, you’re not alone.
🎧 Hit subscribe—this is the first in a four-part series on tech and learning!
In this episode is the invite you need to slow down, tune-in, and reconsider your relationship with technology—especially in the context of homeschooling and neurodivergent learners. From unpacking cultural double standards to exploring how screens can be tools for regulation, creativity, and connection, this episode kicks off a series on screens and learning with nuance, compassion, and curiosity.
Together, we explore how deschooling can help us see screens not as a problem to solve—but as a window into our children's worlds.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The double standard around screen use
How deschooling shifts anxiety around screens
Screens as tools for regulation and connection
What the research also says
Screens as a playground for modern kids
The shift from limiting to witnessing
Self-reflection questions & curiosity prompts
Resources Mentioned:
Free to Learn by Peter Gray
AAP Pediatrics study on media co-engagement
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:Join us inside the Day In The Life community where we’re exploring learning alongside our kids and one another through everyday life. Whether you're raising a teen, a toddler, or a twice-exceptional child, you'll find a thoughtful, supportive space to question, connect, and grow—together.
We gather weekly on Zoom and connect daily via asynchronous Marco Polo video chats. If you can't live in a real-life village with fellow homeschoolers … this is the next best thing.
Try This at Home:Sit beside your child during screen time this week—not to monitor, but to witness. Ask what they're doing. What lights them up? What are they learning, exploring, or expressing?
Then gently reflect: What do you reach for when you need rest, joy, or curiosity?

Ep. 38 - What if School Creates DYSlexia? with Je'anna Clements

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
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/
Connect with Je’Anna:
Website and her books
Patreon and mini-courses
Horizontal Communication
Rights-Centric Education
LinkedIn
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
Join the Conversation!This episode is just a peek inside our Day in the Life community, where parents support one another in self-directed learning and explore homeschooling through the lens of play, flow, and nervous system safety.
Want to join us for support, connection, + more conversations like this?
👉 Learn more at 90minuteschoolday.com/day-in-the-life/.

Ep. 37 - Belonging, Books, and the Stories That Shape Us with Amber O’Neal Johnston

What stories are shaping your child’s self-concept?
In this episode, I sit down with Amber O’Neal Johnston, homeschooling mother, speaker, and author of A Place to Belong: Raising Kids to Celebrate Their Heritage, Community, and the World and Soul School: A Literary Journey into the Soul of Black American Culture. Amber shares her passion for using books, culture, and intentional experiences to help children develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
We explore:
How Amber began homeschooling, what was missing and how she gutted her homeschool to save it
The powerful influence of literature and storytelling in shaping our children’s self-concept and worldview
Ways to create a culturally rich and inclusive home learning environment and community
The importance of representation in the books we read and the experiences we provide
How to move beyond fear and into a place of connection, belonging, and growth
Amber’s insights will challenge and inspire you to think more deeply about the role of stories and community in shaping our children’s lives. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to enrich your approach, this conversation will leave you with practical ideas and encouragement.
Connect with Amber:
Website: HeritageMom.com
Instagram: @HeritageMomBlog
Facebook: HeritageMomBlog
Resources Mentioned:
A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyondby Amber O'Neal Johnston
Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Cultureby Amber O'Neal Johnston
Wonderby R. J. Palaccio
The Danger of a Single Story Tedx Talk by Chimamanda Adichie
Christmas in The Big House, Christmas in the Quartersby Patricia McKissak
Join the Conversation!This episode is just a peek inside our Day in the Life community, where we explore homeschooling through the lens of play, flow, and nervous system safety.
Want to join us for more conversations like this?
👉 Learn more at 90minuteschoolday.com/day-in-the-life/.

Ep. 36 - Reimagine Reading: It's Not A Race!

Listen-in as we challenge conventional thinking about reading and literacy, inviting you to reimagine what learning to read can look like. If you’ve ever worried about whether your child is “on track” or felt pressure to meet school-based milestones, this conversation is for you. We deschool our mindsets around traditional literacy approaches and explore a more natural, expansive perspective on learning to read.
What We Cover in This Episode:
The pressure homeschooling parents feel around reading milestones
Why traditional phonics drills and early benchmarks may not serve every learner
Insights from 90-Minute School Day in the Life Community on reading readiness and neurodivergent learners
Socrates’ paradoxical thoughts on literacy and memory
How the schooling model of reading falls short for many children
Personal reflection prompts on your own childhood reading experiences
The non-linear nature of reading development and the true average age of reading fluency
Expanding our definition of reading beyond just decoding letters and words
The broader scope of literacy—reading, writing, speaking, listening, and making sense of the world
How ableism affects perceptions of literacy and learning
Deschooling our fears around reading and trusting our children's natural development
 
Key Takeaways:
Reading readiness varies widely, typically developing between ages 4 and 12.
The societal view of literacy needs to expand beyond traditional reading and writing.
Alternative literacy pathways, assistive technology, and multimodal learning are valid and important.
Our fears around reading often stem from outdated school-based expectations.
 
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
Want to explore this topic in community? The Day in the Life Community is hosting live discussions all month on rethinking reading through Zoom and asynchronous Marco Polo video chats. Share your thoughts and experiences—join us today!
Listen in now, and don’t forget to share this episode with other homeschooling parents who may need this perspective shift.
 
Resources Mentioned:
Join the conversation inside Day in the Life Community this month on rethinking reading
On Feb. 12, Amber O’Neal Johnston will be joining us live on Zoom to discuss her new book, Soul School, and the importance of identity and representation in children’s literature.
 
Additional Resources for You:
Need guidance through deschooling and natural learning?  Learn about Guide Training™, our signature step-by-step program to launch you into confident self-directed learning with your kids (not against them).
90-Minute School Day offers a self-paced course and 1:1 coaching services to meet you where you are, schedule a free consult today.
Don’t Homeschool Alone!  Join DITL community with 90-Minute School Day and implement self-directed learning with supportive new friends.
Invite Kelly to speak at your next in-person or virtual gathering or event.
 
Support the Podcast:Love this episode? Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to be the first to know when new episodes drop. Also, a quick rating or review helps more families like yours find support on their journey.

Ep. 35 - What Schools Can’t Teach with Robyn Robertson

In this episode, we welcome the always inspiring, Robyn Robertson, host of Honey! I’m Homeschooling the Kids. In this conversation, we dive deep into what schools simply can’t teach—and how homeschooling and unschooling unlock opportunities for lifelong learning that traditional education just can’t provide.
Robyn shares her family’s incredible journey, from worldschooling adventures in Jamaica and Korea to helping her children transition into high school as confident, self-directed learners. We talk about the mindset shifts required to let go of schooling norms and embrace the true meaning of learning.
Here’s what we explore:
Why learning and schooling are not the same—and why this matters for your family.
How comparison steals joy and limits your child’s potential.
The skills schools can’t teach, like self-advocacy, confidence, and intrinsic motivation.
Practical tips to stop replicating school at home and instead create a flexible, meaningful approach to education.
If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “doing enough” or wondered how to truly support your child’s growth, this conversation is for you.
Resources Mentioned:
Robyn Robertson’s Podcast: Honey! I’m Homeschooling the Kids
Book: Project-Based Homeschooling by Lori Pickert
Join the Day in the Life Community
Call to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, it would mean the world to me if you’d take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps me connect with more families like yours who are ready to embrace natural learning.
Additional Resources for You:
Need guidance through deschooling and natural learning?  Learn about Guide Training™, our signature step-by-step program to launch you into confident self-directed learning with your kids (not against them).
90-Minute School Day offers a self-paced course and 1:1 coaching services to meet you where you are, schedule a free consult today.
Don’t Homeschool Alone!  Join DITL community with 90-Minute School Day and implement self-directed learning with supportive new friends.
Invite Kelly to speak at your next in-person or virtual gathering or event.
Follow Kelly on Instagram @90minuteschoolday

Ep. 34 - Winterize Your Homeschool

What Winter Teaches Us About Homeschooling Well
Is your homeschool feeling hectic as winter settles in? Wondering how to find a balance between rest and productivity this season? In this episode, we dive into the power of embracing winter’s slower pace and the Danish concept of hygge to create a homeschool environment full of warmth, connection, and joy.
We talk about how winter isn’t just a time to "do less"—it’s an invitation to listen, reflect, and lean into your family’s natural rhythms. Imagine a homeschool that isn’t rigid but flows with your child’s interests, while also prioritizing the cozy comfort of hygge.
What’s Inside:
How wintering can transform your homeschool mindset
Simple ways to incorporate hygge into your learning environment
The surprising connection between slowing down and thriving in homeschooling
Reflection prompts to help you honor what’s working and what needs healing this season
Why honoring rest might just be the key to a thriving homeschool
Reflection Questions from the Episode:
What has this past season in homeschooling taught me about my family and our needs?
How can I use this time to prepare for renewal when spring arrives?
How can I bring more hygge into our daily lives to foster connection and comfort?
What do I need to grieve, and how can I honor that grief with tenderness?
What can I let go of right now?
What is going well in this season?
What brings joy, right now?
What excites me?
What excites my kids
What is comforting right now?
Additional Resource:Curious to dive deeper into the concept of hygge? Check out The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking. It’s a treasure trove of ideas for creating a cozy, joyful atmosphere in your home.
If you’ve been feeling the pressure of doing “more” and trying to keep up with the latest trends, this episode is a breath of fresh air. Let’s explore how leaning into winter’s slower rhythm can help your homeschool—and your family—thrive.
Call for Resistance:Listen now for practical, simple ways to bring hygge and wintering into your homeschooling journey. Take 5 minutes and work through some of the reflection questions. You’ll leave this episode and that session with self feeling inspired, grounded, and ready to embrace the cozy season ahead.
Don’t forget to share this episode with fellow homeschoolers who could use a reminder to slow down and savor the season. And subscribe to stay connected for more thoughtful tips on homeschooling through the natural rhythms of life.
Stay Connected:
Follow on Instagram @90minuteschoolday or send an email to share how you’re bringing hygge into your homeschool this winter.
Don’t Homeschool Alone!  Join DITL community with 90-Minute School Day
Need guidance through deschooling and natural learning?  Learn about Guide Training™, our signature step-by-step program to launch you into confident self-directed learning with your kids (not against them).
90-Minute School Day offers 1:1 coaching services to meet you where you are, schedule a free consult today.
Invite Kelly to speak at your next in-person or virtual gathering or event.

Ep. 33 - A New Year with Less Hustle, More Healing with Evgeniia Arasim

In this episode, Kelly chats with Evgeniia Arasim, a homeschooling mom and pro-metabolic health coach who helps homeschooling mothers recover from burnout and thrive in their daily lives through a return to wellness.
Evgeniia shares her transformative story—from growing up in a competitive Russian school environment to embracing a homeschooling lifestyle with her family in Toronto. After facing severe burnout during the pandemic while juggling motherhood, business, and life, Evgeniia rebuilt her life by focusing on sustainable, nourishing habits.
Kelly and Evgeniia discuss:
The realities of nervous system burnout and why it’s so common among homeschooling moms with neurodiverse kids.
The power of small, sustainable habits to support physical, emotional, and mental health.
Practical tips for incorporating movement, nutrition, breathwork, and rest into your day—even amidst the chaos of homeschooling kids with sensitive nervous systems.
The science behind blood sugar regulation and why it’s essential for emotional stability.
How prioritizing your basic needs creates a ripple effect of wellness for your entire family.
Evgeniia also highlights her philosophy that "small steps lead to big change" and how grace, self-compassion, and simplicity are key in the process. Her passion for supporting mothers shines through as she offers tangible, relatable advice for making health, wellness, and self-care a family affair.
Resources Mentioned:
Nourished Motherhood
Follow Evgeniia on Instagram: @at.nourished.motherhood
Learn more about her coaching services: www.atnourishedmotherhood.com
Free Mobility routine part I 
Free Mobility routine part II
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90-Minute School Day
Don’t Homeschool Alone!  Join DITL community with 90-Minute School Day
Need guidance through deschooling and natural learning?  Learn about Guide Training™, our signature step-by-step program to launch you into confident self-directed learning with your kids (not against them).
90-Minute School Day offers 1:1 coaching services to meet you where you are, schedule a free consult today.
Invite Kelly to speak at your next in-person or virtual gathering or event.

Ep. 32 - Embrace the Mess: Healing and Learning Through Intuitive Art with Corinne Woodhams

You’re invited to Art Class!  We’re sharing a conversation from the Day in the Life community featuring abstract artist and therapeutic art practitioner Corinne Woodhams. Corinne introduces us to the world of intuitive art—a practice of creativity, emotional release, and self-trust that’s perfect for homeschooling parents and their neurodivergent kids.
Learn how intuitive art can:
Help you strengthen your window of tolerance and grow in regulation.
Develop self-trust and decision-making skills.
Support neurodivergent learners in their self-directed education journey.
Offer a calming, meditative reset during the busiest homeschool seasons.
Corinne also shares practical ways to incorporate this accessible and meaningful practice into your daily life or homeschool routine.
Don’t miss this episode! Tune in to discover how intuitive art can help you and your family navigate the each season with creativity and peace.
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Corinne Woodhams: CorinneWoodhamsStudio.com | Instagram: @CorinneWoodhamsStudio
Join the Day in the Life community: 90MinuteSchoolDay.com
Connect with Kelly | Instagram: @90minuteschoolday
 
Take the Next Step:Explore Corinne’s exclusive intuitive art lesson as a Day in the Life member or contact her to schedule a virtual group session or art lessons for your child.

Ep. 31 - Homeschool without Borders with Jamie Pasho

Ready to take your homeschool on an unforgettable journey?
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Jamie Pasho of Around the World in Homeschool Days. Jamie, a former elementary teacher turned homeschool mom and unit study creator, shares how her family explores geography, culture, and connection through beautifully curated lessons.
We discuss the freedom to follow your child’s interests, embrace flexibility, and create meaningful learning experiences that work for your family. Plus, Jamie shares insights on building her popular unit studies, including Christmas Around the World and Christmas Around the USA—perfect for adding festive fun to your homeschool!
Tune in as we talk about letting wonder lead and giving yourself permission to homeschool with joy and intention.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Learn as Jamie walks us through her transformation from educator to interest-led learner alongside her kids.
How she started building her own geography-cultural studies
When she realized “it’s too much to follow someone else’s schedule.”
What is involved to build out your own unit studies
Permission granted to read one picture book a day and go from there
Connect with Jamie:
Learn more about Jamie at Around the World in Homeschool Days.
You can follow Jamie on Instagram @aroundtheworld_homeschool.
Links and Resources Mentioned in Episode:
Connect with Jamie Pasho on Instagram
Use code DITL to save 30% off your purchase order of Jamie’s unit studies.
Just in time for the holidays are Jamie’s Christmas studies:
*NEW* Christmas Around the USA
Christmas Around the World
Interested in transforming your homeschooling?
Join the Day in the Life Community: 90minuteschoolday.com/day-in-the-life/day-in-the-life/
Learn about Guide Training™, a live group learning environment, to begin or deepen your deschooling, offered twice a year.  
One-on-one coaching with Kelly
Self-paced course on the 90-Minute School Day method.
Listen to or invite Kelly to speak about the 90-Minute School Day™.
Let’s Stay Connected:If this episode resonated with you, please consider rating the podcast and leaving a review! Your feedback helps us reach more parents who need encouragement and support on their homeschooling journey.