Listen to “CHM173: Why Slowing Down Helps Kids Thrive with Leslie Martino” on Spreaker.
You Can Also Watch the Podcast on YouTube Here
On a recent episode of the Christian Homeschool Moms Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with homeschool mom and author Leslie M. Martino to talk about her new book The Joy of Slow. This conversation was such a breath of fresh air, and I think every homeschool parent—whether new or seasoned—needs to hear her message of encouragement.
About Leslie
Leslie M. Martino has over twenty years of experience teaching—as an elementary school teacher, a home educator, and an adjunct lecturer for graduate courses focused on the role of the teacher in supporting childrenʼs individual work preferences. She homeschools her four children and works as an educational consultant, writing curricula, training teachers, and coaching parents to approach learning in an interest-based and connection-rich way. She is a speaker on topics of education and motherhood and is also a contributing writer for the Wild + Free homeschooling community.
Why We Feel the Pressure to Rush
When I asked Leslie why so many homeschool moms feel the need to rush, she named the elephant in the room: comparison. Whether it’s comparing to traditional schools, other homeschool families, or even our own expectations, we often believe we’re “behind” if our children aren’t moving at lightning speed.
Leslie reminded us that education isn’t a one-size-fits-all timeline. Kids learn differently, and sometimes the richest lessons come when we slow down and allow space for wonder. She emphasized that rushing often leads to burnout—for both parent and child—and can rob us of the joy homeschooling is meant to bring.
What Slow Schooling Looks Like in Real Life
So what does “slow schooling” actually look like? Leslie shared that it’s not about doing less or being lazy—it’s about being intentional. Instead of racing through a checklist, slow schooling means leaning into the unique needs and interests of our kids.
It might look like:
- Spending the afternoon reading a single book together instead of skimming five different subjects.
- Pausing a math lesson to explore a real-life application, like baking or gardening.
- Taking nature walks, journaling, or simply having open-ended conversations that spark curiosity.
The beauty of homeschooling is that we have the freedom to do this. And Leslie encouraged us to embrace that freedom rather than fighting against it.
The Benefits of Slowing Down
One of my favorite parts of our conversation was hearing Leslie describe the transformation that happens when families adopt a slower pace. She said kids become more engaged and curious because they’re not being rushed from one thing to the next. They develop confidence in their own learning styles and passions.
And for moms? Slowing down brings peace. It shifts the focus from performance and perfection to presence and connection. Instead of constantly worrying about “keeping up,” we can actually enjoy the journey.
Leslie reminded us that when we model peace and joy in our own approach, our kids feel it too. And that, in itself, is one of the most powerful lessons we can give them.
How to Start Slow Schooling (Without Guilt)
If you’re reading this and thinking, “That sounds amazing, but how do I even start?”—Leslie had some practical tips:
- Start small. You don’t have to overhaul your entire routine. Try slowing down in just one subject or part of the day.
- Give yourself permission. Release the guilt of not doing “enough.” Trust that what you are doing is meaningful.
- Watch your child. Pay attention to what excites them. Follow their curiosity and let that guide your pace.
- Redefine success. Instead of measuring by how many lessons you finish, measure by how much joy, curiosity, and connection you’re cultivating.
A Word of Encouragement
As I reflected on our interview, I couldn’t help but think how freeing Leslie’s message really is. Homeschooling doesn’t have to feel like a sprint—or even a marathon. It can be more like a long, scenic walk where you notice the beauty around you and enjoy the company along the way.
Leslie’s heart for homeschooling moms shines through her book and in the way she encourages us to breathe, let go of unnecessary pressure, and embrace a gentler pace.
If you’ve been feeling burned out, discouraged, or like you’re constantly “behind,” I truly believe her wisdom will give you hope.
How To Reach Leslie
This blog post is just scratching the surface. In our full interview, Leslie dives even deeper into her homeschooling journey, how she developed the concept of slow schooling, and practical ways you can begin to implement it in your own family.
🎧 Click here to watch the episode now
And don’t forget to check out Leslie’s book, The Joy of Slow, for even more encouragement and inspiration.
Website: https://lesliemartino.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliemmartino/
Final Thoughts
Homeschooling is a gift, but it can also be overwhelming when we carry the weight of expectations that don’t belong to us. Talking with Leslie reminded me—and I hope reminds you—that slowing down is not only okay, it’s often exactly what our children need.
So let’s give ourselves permission to step off the hamster wheel, breathe deeply, and remember that the best education happens when learning is joyful, relational, and rooted in love.
