Are traditional schooling methods meeting the diverse needs of today's children? When we explore this topic, it makes us curious and prompts us to rethink the standard classroom setup. As we look into different ways of teaching and the important role parents play, it becomes clear that parental involvement is not just helpful but necessary in shaping a child's education.  This week we welcomed Dr. Traci Korhonen to the podcast. She is the Founder and Director of Dream AcadeME, and a trail blazing educator with a deep understanding of alternative education models. Dr. Traci shows unwavering dedication to empowering children through informed consent, self-love, and critical thinking. You won’t want to miss this insightful episode that will offer a fresh perspective on how we approach the education of our children.   Quotes: "We don't need the structure of school that's been in place for this 100-year-old model, we don't need that model. So how can we create a new model that looks at what children developmentally are, like what they naturally need." - Traci Korhonen "I think it's just teaching them the path that their body is going to naturally get back to, naturally evolving without anything else getting in the way of that." - Traci Korhonen "Let's do something different. And you know, with all this technology and all this medicine, and all the things that have changed over the last 100 years, the educational model has mostly stayed the same. Yeah, it's time that we rethink it." - Traci Korhonen Key Takeaways: Check out different education models that coincide with how children naturally develop, like learning through play, starting to read later, and practicing more flexibility. Think about how much parents are involved in their child's education and find ways to get more engaged. Consider how we can better support informed consent, self-love, and independent thinking in education systems. Look into the advantages of kids spending time in nature and being outdoors for their cognitive and behavioral development. Learn about the possibility of starting a small school or charter school as a more affordable option for education that's tailored to each child. Speak up for policies that give parents the freedom to choose the right school and provide public funding for alternative education models. Cut down on screen time and make sure there's plenty of unstructured play for children, so they can develop socially and emotionally. Have open and honest chats with your kids about their bodies, growing up, and empowering them with knowledge.   Highlights/Timeline: [12:45] – Dr. Hom introduces Dr. Traci Korhonen [15:36] – Traci reflects on New Hampshire's Motto and Modern Perspectives on Freedom [17:00] – Traci's Perspective on California's Educational Landscape [22:13] – Integrating Nature and Wellness into Education [24:51] – Traci’s experience with Toxicity and Nourishment in Children's Ecosystems [29:41] – What are the challenges of Childhood Freedom and Access [33:21] – Polluting Emissions and Weather Manipulation [37:28] – Traci promotes Natural Health Medications and Child Wellbeing [42:07] – The Impact of COVID-19 on Children's Mental Health and Cognitive Functioning [47:16] – Traci’s Mission for Education  [59:00] – Homeschooling and Independent Thinking in California Schools [1:08:52] – Traci’s Vision of Thriving Education   Conclusion: It is important to try new ways of teaching like using games and finding ways to involve parents. It’s also important to adapt different teaching styles for different kids.  And finally, teaching should impart the importance of making informed choices, self-love, and critical thinking.    Resources: Learn more about Traci Korhonen on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtracikorhonen  Website: https://dreamacademe.org/  Facebook: www.facebook.com/wellheartschool   Learn more about Dr. Stanton Hom on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanhomdc Instagram: https://www.insta