#113: What Japan Got Right About Education—and the Shocking Truth Gabriella Discovered in the U.S.

What happens when a flight attendant with international benefits decides to homeschool? Magic, adventure, and a whole new approach to education.Gabriella from RellaBBooks invites us into her world as a "hybrid homeschooler," where her four-year-old daughter attends traditional school three days weekly while spending the remaining two immersed in personalized education at home. But this arrangement is just temporary—by second grade, Gabriella plans to fully homeschool, transforming their lives into a globe-trotting educational adventure.Drawing from her own childhood experiences in Japanese schools—where libraries featured Zen gardens and the curriculum embraced cultural immersion—Gabriella recognized the stark limitations of American education when she returned stateside. The contrast was jarring: from child-led exploration to strict limitations where even her already-mastered cursive writing was prohibited because "they hadn't taught that yet."After working within the school system and discovering disturbing correlations between third-grade reading scores and prison population projections, Gabriella chose a different path. Now she's creating children's books that make learning joyful, starting with financial literacy in "Mama I Got a Dollar." Her multifaceted approach includes podcasts where authors read to children, YouTube content featuring movement and imagination, and even plans for a movie about English language components.Most innovative is her vision for young readers to become "little editors," providing feedback on manuscripts before publication—a brilliant way to engage children in the creative process while teaching communication skills.Whether you're considering homeschooling, looking for creative ways to supplement traditional education, or simply fascinated by alternative educational approaches, this conversation offers practical insights into crafting a learning environment that honors children's natural curiosity while preparing them for real-world success.Ready to rethink education? Download this episode now and discover how one mother's journey might inspire your family's educational adventure.Check out Gabriella's work here: RellaBBooksHome Grown Collective: It’s time to take food security into our own hands! Responsibly grown, locally sourced, and accessible to all. This app is free and easy to use! Just download in the app store or log on at HomeGrownCollective.org to connect with local farmers, find fresh food, and support sustainable agriculture. Whether you’re a consumer or a grower looking to expand your business, this platform has the tools to make it happen—commission-free sales, a social share tool, and even a farmer reimbursement program!What is the most important thing we can teach our kids?HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!This could mean life or death in some cases!Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forget The Activity Book!The Tuttle Twins - use code Cheryl40 for 40% the age 5-11 series!Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast