#310: Rethinking Education: How Alternative Schools Help Kids Thrive with Laura Sandefer

Traditional education isn’t working for many kids, but what if there was a better way? In this episode, we dive into self-directed learning, alternative education, and raising independent kids with Laura Sandefer, co-founder of Acton Academy—a revolutionary school model designed to help children take ownership of their education. Discover how to foster a love of learning, resilience, and real-world problem-solving through a unique combination of Socratic discussions, project-based learning, and self-governance. Laura shares powerful insights on why kids should be treated as capable leaders in their own learning journey, how parents can support a hero’s journey mindset, and why failure is one of the most valuable lessons a child can experience.

We also explore the differences between private, alternative, and traditional schooling, plus practical tips for nurturing independent thinkers at home! If you want to empower your child to be a critical thinker, problem solver, and self-motivated learner, this episode is a must-listen.

Topics Covered In This Episode:

• Self-directed learning for kids

• Alternative education vs. traditional schools

• The hero’s journey in education

• Building independence and problem-solving skills

• How to foster a love of learning

Show Notes:

• Check out the Be Family - Dinner table card game

• Purchase the Courage to Grow book

• Click here to learn more about Dr. Elana Roumell’s Doctor Mom Membership, a membership designed for moms who want to be their child’s number one health advocate!

• Click here to learn more about Steph Greunke, RD’s online nutrition program and community, Postpartum Reset, an intimate private community and online roadmap for any mama (or mama-to-be) who feels stuck, alone, and depleted and wants to learn how to thrive in motherhood.

• Listen to today’s episode on our website

Laura Sandefer: Co-Founder, Acton Academy. Laura lived on both US coasts and in between as a child, then settled into Vanderbilt University for her undergraduate studies. After being awarded the Walter Wattles Fellowship at Lloyd’s of London, Laura worked in the aviation insurance industry in New York City. Deciding to follow her calling into the world of education, Laura returned to Nashville and earned her second Vanderbilt degree with her Master of Education. This led her to her work at the Oklahoma Arts Institute, creating fine arts education programs for teachers and talented high school students. Laura married Jeff Sandefer and is the happy mother of Sam and Charlie and step-mother to Taite. It is the inspiration of these children that led Laura and Jeff to co-found Acton Academy, a revolutionary design for K-12 learning, and the Acton Children's Business Fair. Today there are over 300 Acton Academy locations around the world and over 1,000 Children's Business Fairs impacting the lives of over 16,000 children. Laura is the author of “Courage to Grow” - a true story documenting the journey she and her family took to create a new vision of learning that has started a global movement in education. Her passion now includes equipping families to build deep connection around the family dinner table with her conversation game, "Be Family." 

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Please remember that the views and ideas presented on this podcast are for informational purposes only.  All information presented on this podcast is for informational purposes and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a healthcare provider. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any diet, supplement regimen, or to determine the appropriateness of the information shared on this podcast, or if you have any questions regarding your treatment plan.