Ep. 49 - Falling Behind is a Myth with Leslie Martino

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 is part 2 in our 5-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.

📌 Connect with Leslie: lesliemartino.com

📌 Join Leslie’s 30 Days of Connection 📌 Join 90-Minute School Day in the Life Community

🎧 Catch Part 1 here: Grief, Acceptance, and Meaning-Making with Emily Souder

🎧 Catch Part 3 here: Body Before Brain: Unlock Learning with Sarah Collins

🎧 Catch Part 4 here: What If Math Wasn't The Problem? with Sue Patterson

🎧 Catch Part 5 here: Becoming Brave Learners with Julie Bogart