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📚 Part of our guide: How to Start HomeschoolingHow to Handle Homeschool Backlash from Family and FriendsA Homeschool Foundations replay from Talking Mom to Mom, now airing on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show.

What do you do when family, friends, or even strangers question your decision to homeschool?

If you’ve ever felt caught off guard by skeptical comments, awkward questions, or criticism about your homeschool, you’re not alone. For many moms, one of the hardest parts of homeschooling isn’t curriculum or scheduling—it’s learning how to respond when other people don’t understand what you’re doing.

In this Homeschool Foundations replay, we’re talking about how to handle homeschool backlash from family and friends with confidence, humility, and grace.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Can You Handle Homeschool Criticism Without Losing Your Peace?Yes—you absolutely can.

The best way to handle homeschool backlash is to stay grounded in your reasons for homeschooling, respond with calm confidence, and avoid getting pulled into unnecessary arguments. Not every question is an attack, but not every conversation deserves your energy either.

The longer you homeschool, the more confidence you’ll build. But even in the beginning, you can learn how to answer hard questions without feeling shaken.

Why People Question HomeschoolingSometimes criticism comes from a negative place. But many times, it simply comes from misunderstanding.

Homeschooling still feels unfamiliar to a lot of people, even though it has become far more common over the years. Family members, neighbors, or acquaintances may ask questions because they genuinely don’t understand how homeschooling works.

They may wonder:

  • What curriculum do you use?
  • Is homeschooling legal?
  • What about socialization?
  • Do you need a teaching degree?
  • How do you know your child is learning enough?

And if we’re being honest, many homeschooling parents have asked some of those same questions themselves.

That’s why it helps to remember: not every question is criticism. Some people are curious. Some are cautious. Some are skeptical. And some simply don’t know what homeschooling actually looks like in real life.

Common Homeschool Questions You May HearIf you’ve been homeschooling for any length of time, you’ve probably heard at least a few of these:

“What about socialization?”This is probably the most common homeschool question of all.

“Are you even allowed to teach that?”Some people assume the state tightly controls homeschool curriculum.

“How do you know they’re on track?”This question usually comes from concern about academics or future readiness.

“Wouldn’t your child rather be in school?”This one can feel especially frustrating—especially when it’s directed at your child instead of you.

“Do you have a teaching degree?”Many people assume formal teaching credentials are required to educate a child at home.

These questions can feel exhausting, especially if they come up repeatedly. But having a few grounded responses ready can help you feel more prepared and less defensive.

How to Respond to Homeschool Criticism with GraceOne of the best reminders for homeschool moms is this:

You do not have to prove yourself to everyone.

That doesn’t mean you should be rude. It simply means you are not required to defend every educational choice to every person who has an opinion.

Here are a few ways to respond well.

Start with a Calm, Confident AnswerA simple, steady response often says more than a long explanation.

You might say:

  • “That’s a great question.”
  • “We’ve put a lot of thought into this.”
  • “This is the best fit for our family right now.”
  • “We’ve found a rhythm that’s working really well for us.”

Confidence matters. People often take their cues from how certain—or uncertain—you sound.

If you respond like you’re constantly second-guessing yourself, they may feel invited to keep pushing. But if you respond with peace and clarity, the conversation often softens quickly.

Remember That Humility and Confidence Can CoexistYou don’t have to act like you know everything.

In fact, one of the best ways to respond to sincere questions is with humility.

You can say:

“Honestly, we had some of those same questions when we started homeschooling.”

That kind of answer lowers the tension immediately. It reminds the other person that you didn’t make this decision lightly or blindly. You’ve thought through the concerns, learned along the way, and are continuing to grow.

Confidence does not mean pretending homeschooling is always easy.
It means trusting that this is the right path for your family, even while you’re still learning.

Know the Difference Between Curiosity and CombativenessThis is such an important distinction.

Some people are truly asking because they care. Others are asking because they want to challenge your choice.

Those are not the same conversation.

A sincere question usually feels open and respectful.

A combative question often feels like:

  • a jab
  • a test
  • a setup
  • a criticism disguised as curiosity

When that happens, you don’t need to over-explain.

Sometimes the wisest answer is a short one.

You can simply say:

  • “I appreciate your concern.”
  • “We’re confident in our decision.”
  • “This is what works best for our family.”
  • “We’ve thought this through carefully.”

And then move on.

What If the Criticism Comes from Family?This can be the hardest kind of homeschool backlash.

It’s one thing to brush off a stranger at the grocery store. It’s another thing when the criticism comes from grandparents, siblings, in-laws, or extended family members you love.

When family questions your homeschool, it can feel personal—even if they mean well.

In those situations, it helps to remember this:

You do not need family-wide agreement in order to homeschool faithfully.

If the conversation is healthy and respectful, it can be worth having. Some family members just need time, exposure, and reassurance.

But if the same topic turns into tension every time you’re together, it may be time to set a gentle boundary.

You might say:

“I know you care about the kids, and I appreciate that. But this is a decision we’ve made carefully as a family, and I’d rather not keep debating it.”

That is not disrespectful. That is mature boundary-setting.

If It’s an In-Law Issue, Let Your Spouse HelpIf the criticism is coming from your spouse’s family, it can help for your spouse to take the lead in those conversations when appropriate.

That doesn’t mean you can’t speak for yourself. It simply means some family dynamics are better handled from within the family line.

If your mother-in-law, father-in-law, or sibling-in-law keeps pushing the issue, your spouse may be the best person to say:

“This is our family’s decision, and we’re asking for support even if you wouldn’t choose the same thing.”

That can prevent resentment and reduce unnecessary friction.

What If Strangers or Acquaintances Say Something?This is a different category entirely.

Sometimes homeschool moms get comments from:

  • neighbors
  • store clerks
  • medical staff
  • church acquaintances
  • random adults who notice kids are “out during school hours”

And honestly? You do not owe every curious stranger a 20-minute explanation in the middle of Target.

You can be kind without being available for interrogation.

Simple responses work well here:

  • “We homeschool.”
  • “This is part of our school day.”
  • “We have a flexible schedule.”
  • “They’re learning a lot, thank you.”

And if the person gets pushy or inappropriate, it is completely okay to end the conversation.

You can simply say:

“Excuse us—we need to get going. Have a great day.”

That is polite. That is enough.

What If Someone Questions Your Child?This can feel especially upsetting.

It’s one thing when people question you. It’s another when they quiz your child, make assumptions, or ask leading questions like:

  • “Wouldn’t you rather be in school?”
  • “Do you even learn anything at home?”
  • “Are you behind?”

That kind of interaction can be uncomfortable for kids, especially if they’re younger.

This is where your response matters even more—because your child is learning from how you handle it.

When you stay calm, confident, and gracious, you model emotional maturity and self-respect.

That doesn’t mean you have to allow rude behavior. It simply means you can protect your child without becoming combative.

A simple response might be:

“We’re happy with how things are going, thanks.”

Then redirect and move on.

A Christian Response to Homeschool BacklashIf you are homeschooling from a faith-based perspective, this part matters deeply.

Because while it may feel satisfying in the moment to come back with something sharp or sarcastic, that rarely produces peace—or fruit.

One of the most helpful verses for hard conversations is:

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
— Proverbs 15:1

That doesn’t mean you have to be passive.
It doesn’t mean you have to agree.
And it definitely doesn’t mean you have to stay in unhealthy conversations.

But it does mean your response can reflect Christ even when the other person’s attitude does not.

You can be gracious and still be firm.
You can be humble and still be confident.
You can be kind and still have boundaries.

That combination is powerful.

What If You’re Still Building Confidence Yourself?This is important too.

Sometimes criticism hurts so much because it lands on a part of you that already feels uncertain.

If you’re still early in your homeschool journey, you may still be asking some of the same questions other people are asking.

That doesn’t mean you’re failing.

It means you’re growing.

One of the best things you can do if you’re feeling shaky is to strengthen your own foundation.

That may look like:

  • talking with experienced homeschool moms
  • reading trusted homeschool books
  • listening to encouraging podcast episodes
  • learning more about your state laws
  • building a support system that reminds you why you started

Confidence often doesn’t come all at once. It grows over time.

And often, the longer you homeschool, the less outside opinions will rattle you.

Encouragement for the Mom Who Feels JudgedIf you’ve been hurt by criticism, questioned by family, or made to feel like your homeschool choice is irresponsible or strange, here’s what I want to remind you of:

You are allowed to choose a different path for your family.

You are allowed to educate your children thoughtfully, intentionally, and differently.

You are allowed to grow into this role.

And you are allowed to protect your peace while you do it.

Not everyone will understand your homeschool.
Not everyone needs to.

But your children don’t need everyone’s approval.
They need your steady leadership.

And that matters more than outside noise.

Key Takeaways for Handling Homeschool Backlash* Not every question about homeschooling is an attack * Some people criticize homeschooling simply because they don’t understand it * You do not have to justify every homeschool decision * Calm confidence is often your best response * Grace and boundaries can coexist * Your homeschool does not require public approval to be valid

Listen to the Full EpisodeThis episode originally aired on Talking Mom to Mom and is now featured as part of our Homeschool Foundations series on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show.

If you’ve ever struggled with outside opinions, awkward homeschool questions, or criticism from family and friends, this conversation will encourage you.

Listen to more Homeschool Foundations episodes here:
https://ultimateradioshow.com/ultimate-homeschool-radio-show/

You Might Also Enjoy These Episodes* What To Do When Your Day Is A Dumpster Fire * Renew Your Homeschooling * What I Wish I Knew When I Began Homeschooling * Navigating the Homeschooling Journey with the All-in-One SchoolhouseTeachers Platform

FAQ: Handling Homeschool CriticismWhy do family members criticize homeschooling?Often, family members criticize homeschooling because they don’t fully understand it. Their concerns may come from unfamiliarity, fear, or assumptions about what education should look like.

How should I respond when people question homeschooling?Respond calmly and confidently. If the question is sincere, answer kindly. If the conversation becomes combative, it’s okay to set a boundary and move on.

What if grandparents don’t support homeschooling?If grandparents or extended family are critical, it helps to stay respectful but firm. You can appreciate their concern without allowing them to control your family’s education decisions.

Is it normal to feel insecure when people question homeschooling?Yes. Many homeschool moms feel uncertain at first. Confidence usually grows with time, experience, and seeing your children thrive.

What does the Bible say about responding to criticism?A helpful verse is Proverbs 15:1: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Responding with humility and grace can help difficult conversations stay calmer.

The post How to Handle Homeschool Backlash from Family and Friends appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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📚 Part of our guide: How to Start HomeschoolingIf you’re thinking about homeschooling, you’re not alone. Many parents wonder whether they are qualified to teach their children, how much time homeschooling requires, and whether their kids will still have friends and social opportunities. In this episode of Homeschooling IRL, part of the Homeschool Foundations Series on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show, we talk honestly about the most common fears parents have when considering homeschooling—and why those concerns might not be as scary as they seem.Thinking about homeschooling? Have a friend who is?In this episode, originally aired on Homeschooling IRL, we tackle some of the most common questions parents ask when they begin considering homeschooling.

You may have wondered things like:

  • Will my kids have to raise their hands to go to the bathroom?
  • What about prom?
  • Who gets to be the lunch lady?

Okay
 maybe not exactly like that.

But the truth is, many parents do have real concerns when they first think about homeschooling.

For this episode, we polled moms and dads who are considering homeschooling and asked them what worries them most. Their answers were honest, unfiltered, and incredibly relatable.Parents shared fears about:

  • Burnout
  • Academic gaps
  • Whether their kids will turn out “weird”
  • Their own ability to teach difficult subjects

We respond with honesty, transparency, and a little humor—because homeschooling in real life isn’t perfect, but it can be incredibly rewarding.

If you’re wondering whether homeschooling might be right for your family, this conversation will encourage you and help answer some of your biggest questions.

This episode is part of the Homeschool Foundations Series on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show.


Episode Highlights0:00 – Sponsor Message: CTC Math

1:19 – Introduction to Homeschooling in Real Life

6:25 – The Time and Commitment Required for Homeschooling

11:50 – The Reality of Homeschooling in Everyday Life

21:06 – “I Don’t Know If I Can Do This Right”

23:30 – Why Science Can Feel Difficult to Homeschool

29:27 – Q&A with Candy

34:00 – What Do We Really Mean by Socialization?

39:52 – Bringing Faith into Your Homeschool


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Loved Thinking About Homeschooling? Try These Recommended Podcasts

Find a Math Curriculum That Works

How Do I Make Homeschooling Fun?

Best of Homeschooling IRL: I Love Homeschooling, But I Hate Teaching Writing

SUMMARY KEYWORDShomeschooling, kids, homeschool, teach, people, question, child, thinking, public school, year, podcast, boys, coffee, friends, picture, fletch, homeschoolers, school, high school, multi-sensory approachThe post Thinking About Homeschooling? | Homeschool Foundations Series appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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📚 Part of our guide: How to Start HomeschoolingIf you’re new to homeschooling or still finding your footing, the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show has a special series just for you. In these replay episodes, we walk through the foundations of homeschooling—from why families choose this path to practical steps like creating a schedule, choosing curriculum, and shifting your mindset for success. Whether you’re just beginning or looking for reassurance along the way, these episodes offer encouragement, practical tips, and the confidence you need to build a strong start to your homeschool journey.

Be sure to subscribe to the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Homeschool FoundationsStarting your homeschool journey can feel exciting
 and a little overwhelming.

You might be asking questions like:

  • Can I really do this?
  • Where do I even begin?
  • How do I know what curriculum to use?
  • What should our daily schedule look like?

If those questions sound familiar, you’re not alone.

Every homeschool family begins somewhere, and building a strong foundation can make all the difference in creating a homeschool experience that is peaceful, productive, and joyful.

That’s why we’re highlighting a special series on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network: Homeschool Foundations.

This collection of podcast episodes is perfect for families who are new to homeschooling or those who want to revisit the basics and strengthen their approach.

Let’s take a look at the key topics in this series. Be sure to subscribe!

Why Families Choose HomeschoolingHomeschooling has grown tremendously over the past few decades, and families choose it for many different reasons.

Some parents want to provide a more personalized education. Others want to integrate their family’s faith and values into everyday learning. Many families simply want the flexibility to learn at their own pace.

In these episodes, you’ll hear about the motivations behind homeschooling and why so many families have found it to be a rewarding and life-changing decision.

BONUS: Listen to Vintage Homeschool Moms: Why Homeschooling Works

Getting Started HomeschoolingThe beginning of homeschooling often brings a flood of questions.

What are the legal requirements in your state?
How many hours should you teach each day?
What supplies do you actually need?

These episodes walk through the practical first steps for getting started so you can move forward with confidence rather than confusion.

Creating a Homeschool ScheduleOne of the biggest surprises for new homeschool families is how flexible homeschooling can be.

There is no single “right” schedule.

Some families thrive with a structured daily routine, while others prefer a more relaxed rhythm that adapts to their children’s energy and interests.

These episodes explore different ways to structure your homeschool day and helps you create a schedule that fits your family instead of forcing your family to fit a schedule.

Choosing CurriculumCurriculum choices can feel overwhelming at first.

With so many programs, books, and online options available, it’s easy to wonder if you’re making the right choice.

In these episodes, you’ll learn how to think about curriculum in a practical way, how to evaluate options, and how to choose materials that fit your child’s learning style and your teaching preferences.

Homeschool Mindset ShiftsHomeschooling isn’t just about changing where your child learns. It often requires changing how we think about education.

Many parents discover that homeschooling invites them to rethink things like:

  • What learning really looks like
  • How children develop curiosity
  • The value of flexibility and exploration
  • Letting go of unrealistic expectations

These episodes focus on the mindset shifts that help homeschool families thrive over the long term.

BONUS: Listen to Renew Your Homeschooling on the Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast

Building Your Homeschool FoundationEvery homeschool family’s journey will look different.

What matters most is creating a foundation that supports your children’s growth, your family’s values, and a love of learning that lasts far beyond the school years.

If you’re just beginning your homeschool journey—or if you want encouragement for the road ahead—these Homeschool Foundations episodes are a great place to start.

Subcribe here: Apple Podcasts | Android | By Email

Explore more homeschool encouragement, tips, and practical advice at the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


This post sponsored by CTCMath.com

The post Homeschool Foundations: Getting Started Homeschooling, Schedules, Curriculum & Mindset appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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“I would attempt to stick with a curriculum and slow it down to meet my child’s level, instead of jumping ship. Sometimes that’s necessary, but I feel I moved my eldest to a different math curriculum and I should have just waited and slowed down to work at their pace.”

Every homeschool parent has been there — a curriculum that isn’t clicking, lessons that feel too fast or too hard, and the temptation to scrap it all and start over.

But this gold nugget reminds us of something timeless: sometimes the best progress happens when we pause. We need a little homeschool pace and patience!

When we slow down and meet our children where they are, we build confidence instead of frustration. We make space for mastery instead of racing through material. And we teach something far deeper than math or grammar — we model perseverance.

That patience creates lifelong learners who know that growth takes time, and that learning at your own pace is still learning.

Listen & Learn:
In Homeschooling with Technology, Meryl van der Merwe shares practical ways to make your homeschool more efficient — without sacrificing peace.
In her episode 12 Homeschool Tech Hacks, she explains how digital tools can help you stay organized and adjust lessons to fit your child’s pace.

Dr. Melanie’s episode, 12 Homeschool Hacks That Changed Everything, is filled with wisdom, humor, and grace for the busy homeschool parent.
Listen to the episode here

Your Golden Takeaway:
Don’t rush the process. Slow down. Adjust. Stick with it. The goal isn’t to finish faster — it’s to grow stronger.

Treasure Hunt Tip:
The next Golden Nugget is hidden inside the show notes of 12 Homeschool Gold Nuggest from Finish Well Podcast. Go find your clue — it’s your next piece of Podcast Gold!


Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest and see if it inspires homeschool pace and patience in your homeschool!
We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammoth, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Download your Treasure Chest now!

The post Day 5 of Homeschool Podcast Gold: Slow Down and Stick With It appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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“Do more subjects together as a family — even with large age gaps.”

If you’ve ever tried teaching multiple grades at once, you know the juggle is real.
Math for one, grammar for another, science experiments bubbling over, and a toddler who wants to “help.”

But today’s Podcast Gold Nugget reminds us that one of the best parts of homeschooling is something that schools can’t replicate:

“Do more subjects together as a family — even with large age gaps.”

Learning as a family isn’t just efficient — it’s powerful. When we read aloud together, explore history side by side, or worship through music as a group, we’re doing more than teaching — we’re discipling.

Homeschooling gives us a front-row seat to shared discovery — where big kids model curiosity for little ones, and parents learn alongside their children. Those shared moments are the ones they’ll remember long after the books are closed.

Listen & Learn:
Tune in to the Homeschool Sanity Show with Dr. Melanie Wilson to discover more tips like this for your homeschool in her newest podcast episode, “12 Homeschool Hacks That Changed Everything.“

Your Golden Takeaway:
Don’t be afraid to combine lessons and ages. Let older kids help teach younger ones. Turn read-aloud time into discussion for everyone. Family learning isn’t chaos — it’s community.

Treasure Hunt Tip:
There’s a golden clue hidden in the show notes for today’s featured episode! Visit 12 Homeschool Hacks That changed Everything to find your next piece of Podcast Gold.


Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!
We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammoth, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Download your Treasure Chest now!

The post Day 4 of Podcast Gold: Learning Together as a Family appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Day 3 of Podcast Gold: Relationship Over Rigor

“Relationship is the most important ‘R’ in ‘reading, ’riting, and ’rithmetic.’ I’d read together more, move away from textbooks, start narration and dictation sooner, and find a homeschool community earlier.”

When most of us first start homeschooling, we focus on getting the academics right. We fill in checklists, chase grade levels, and try to recreate school at home — because that’s what feels familiar.

But somewhere along the way, we realize something sacred: homeschooling isn’t just about academics. It’s about connection.

Today’s Podcast Gold Nugget captures that realization perfectly:

“Relationship is the most important ‘R’ in ‘reading, ’riting, and ’rithmetic.’ I’d read together more, move away from textbooks, start narration and dictation sooner, and find a homeschool community earlier.”

This wisdom reminds us that the heart of homeschooling is relationship — not rigor. Our kids will forget some facts, but they’ll never forget how it felt to learn beside us.

Those snuggled read-alouds, messy science projects, and conversations over cocoa? They’re the moments that shape character and family culture — the kind of education that lasts.

Listen & Learn:
Hal & Melanie Young from Making Biblical Family Lfe Practical share this same truth often: learning happens best in the context of relationship. In their episodes about confidence and connection, she reminds us that joy comes when we stop trying to do homeschool like everyone else — and start building something that works for our family.

Your Golden Takeaway:
Before you open the math book, open your heart. The relationship you build with your child is the foundation for lifelong learning.

Treasure Hunt Tip:
There’s a golden clue hidden in the podcast for today’s featured episode! Visit Making Biblical Family Life Practical: Rules and Relationship to find your next piece of Podcast Gold.


Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!
We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammoth, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Download your Treasure Chest now!

The post Day 3 of Homeschool Podcast Gold: Relationship Over Rigor appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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“I would enjoy the good, true, and beautiful subjects with my kids — and stress less about formal schooling.”

If you’ve ever stared at a homeschool planner wondering how to fit it all in, you’re not alone. The pressure to keep up with academic checklists can sometimes overshadow the very reason we started homeschooling — to nurture a love for learning and a love for life.

Today’s Podcast Gold Nugget comes from a mom who’s rediscovered what so many of us forget in the rush of lesson plans and testing deadlines:

“I would enjoy the good, true, and beautiful subjects with my kids — and stress less about formal schooling.”

There’s a deep truth here — that beauty, truth, and goodness are education. They’re the parts that make homeschooling rich and memorable: the art that sparks conversation, the music that brings peace, the poetry that softens a hurried heart, and the faith that weaves it all together.

When we shift from “checking boxes” to “cultivating wonder,” homeschooling becomes more than school — it becomes a lifestyle of learning. These are the moments that build connection and character — when your child’s eyes light up over a watercolor sunset, or you both laugh through a Shakespeare line that suddenly makes sense.

Listen & Learn:
Felice Gerwitz, The Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast reminds us that peace comes when we let go of perfection and embrace purpose. Her practical wisdom and faith-filled encouragement help parents rediscover joy in the learning journey — one beautiful moment at a time. Listen to Peaceful Parenting on the Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast.

Your Golden Takeaway:
Let beauty interrupt your day. Read a poem. Paint with your kids. Listen to Bach or Bethel while folding laundry. These moments are not distractions — they’re the heartbeat of homeschooling.

Treasure Hunt Tip:
Visit The Vintage Homeschool Moms Show page to find your next piece of Podcast Gold.


Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card! No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammon, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Download your Treasure Chest now!

The post Homeschool Podcast Gold: The Good, True, and Beautiful (Day 2) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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“Do a lot more research on the best curriculum and activities to follow along to.” – Homeschool Mom

If you could start homeschooling all over again, what would you do differently?

For many homeschool parents, this question brings both a smile and a sigh. We’ve all been there — standing in the curriculum aisle at a homeschool convention (or scrolling late at night), trying to decide between the math program everyone swears by and the one that might actually fit our child.

Today’s Podcast Gold Nugget comes from a real mom who’s been there too. She shared this piece of wisdom:

“Do a lot more research on the best curriculum and activities to follow along to.”

At first glance, this might sound simple — but behind it is a story we all share: the moment we realize that homeschooling isn’t about finding the perfect curriculum, but the right one for our family.

The truth? Researching your options isn’t just about products or programs. It’s about understanding your child — their learning style, pace, and passions. Sometimes, that means digging deeper than the glossy catalog or trending social media post. It means asking questions like:

  • What truly lights my child up when learning?
  • What teaching style fits me as a parent?
  • Does this program help us stay consistent and joyful, or does it add pressure?

Homeschooling is a long game — and the gold often lies in slowing down long enough to choose wisely.

Listen & Learn:Felice Gerwitz, veteran homeschool mom and founder of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, shares her own curriculum confessions in Vintage Homeschool Moms Episode 568: Curriculum Confessions – What Worked and What Flopped.She reminds us that even after 30+ years of homeschooling, she’s still learning what works — and that’s okay. Because homeschooling isn’t about getting it perfect the first time. It’s about growing in grace as you go.

Your Golden Takeaway:Before you buy your next curriculum, take a deep breath. Pour a cup of coffee. Read reviews, talk to other moms, and pray about what will fit your unique family. Research isn’t wasted time — it’s time invested in peace. Treasure Hunt Tip:
There’s a golden clue hidden in the show notes for today’s featured episode! Visit the Vintage Homeschool Moms episode page to find a bonus piece of Podcast Gold.

Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!
We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card!

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammon, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Download your Treasure Chest now!The post 🌟 Day 1 of Podcast Gold: Research Before You Dive In appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Show Notes- Radioisotopes, Revelation, and a Younger Earth — A Chat with Dr. Jay WileWhat’s New in Creation Science NewsThis episode formerly aired as part of the Homeschool Expo. Listen to additional Creation Science Podcast episodes.

Every year, new scientific discoveries are made. More often than not, those discoveries have little bearing on the creation/evolution or age-of-the-earth debates. However, every now and then, a new discovery relates to one or both of those controversial topics. In this talk, Dr. Wile discusses the recent scientific discoveries that are directly related to these subjects and shows how they generally support the young-earth creationist view.Meet Dr. Jay WileDr. Jay L. Wile is a nuclear chemist and prominent figure in the homeschool community, renowned for his science curricula that integrate a Christian worldview. He holds a Ph.D. in Nuclear Chemistry and a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Rochester, and has received multiple awards for excellence in teaching.

Educational PhilosophyDr. Wile advocates for a chronological approach to teaching science, integrating historical context to enhance understanding. He believes that science and Christianity are complementary, encouraging students to explore scientific concepts as a means to appreciate the intricacies of God’s creation.

Personal BackgroundDr. Wile and his wife, Kathleen, homeschooled their adopted daughter, Dawn, through high school. Their personal experience has informed his commitment to providing quality science education resources for the homeschool community.

For more information on Dr. Wile’s work and resources, you can visit Berean Builders or his Facebook page.

Thank you to our Sponsor, CTC Math.com

The post Creation Science Podcast: Radioisotopes, Revelation, and a Younger Earth — A Chat with Dr. Jay Wile appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Helping Our Kids Have Resiliency“We’re not just raising kids, we’re raising resilient adults. We’re raising spiritual beings.”

Join Lisa Nehring on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Thank you to our Network Sponsor: CTC Math

In a world where people easily crumble like delicate snowflakes and take offense at the drop of a hat, it’s high time we pondered this vital question: Are our children truly growing in resiliency?

Are they emerging as fearless warriors, fortified with unyielding character and an indomitable spirit? Let me tell you, this remarkable gift of resiliency will serve as their secret weapon in navigating an increasingly secular world.

So join me on this resilience adventure as we explore the importance of resilience and why it’s high time we raise a generation of tenacious individuals who can conquer any challenge that comes their way. Trust me, it’ll be one heck of a ride.

Get Intentional!In her excellent book, appropriately titled, Grit, Angela Duckworth takes on the task of developing the idea of resilience in our children. She advocates for making resilience development a part of kids’ life skills curriculum.

I couldn’t agree more. Our kids need resilience. It’s what allows them to go out and compete, take risks, fail, and try again.

Key Ingredients for Developing ResiliencePractice– Practice is what lets us learn as we go. To practice and develop well, we must get assessments and feedback.
Purpose– Resilience is not always about pursuing those things that we might have a natural inclination toward. Students should consider pursuing something that they can develop an interest in over the long term.
Hope– This is tied to trying and failing. Failure is a huge part of developing resilience. We need to teach our kids that success does not come without failure. Winners keep pursuing goals despite setbacks.
Time– We need to set aside time to practice with deliberation, fail, and succeed.
Create Some Resilience Goals

Angela Duckworth has some practical recommendations for bestowing the remarkable gift of resilience to your children:Choose something that requires deliberate daily practice.
Commit to doing this activity for 2 years.
Finish what you’ve started for a specified interval.

Resources Mentioned in the PodcastAfter Action Your Homeschool Year


Find Lisa at the Life Skills 101 Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Top Podcast Episodes on Life Skills 101, formerly Soft Skills 101* Getting Started with Elementary Homeschool Education * The Cost of Parental Ignorance: Unveiling the True Price of Education * Learning Styles & Online Education

Check out True North Homeschool Academy

Our mission at True North Homeschool Academy is centered around the Compass, and that’s by design. It’s the heart of what we do, because we are heading True North with the Christian conviction that together our homeschools should transmit a culture of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, as we are headed True North, rooted in Christ.

True North Homeschool Academy is a virtual online learning experience with a small class size, and dynamic teaching from world-class teachers, with a focus on creating a one-of-a-kind educational experience families will love.


Thank you to our sponsor for the Birthday Celebration: CTC Math.

The post Helping Our Kids Have Resiliency with Lisa Nehring (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Neuroplasticity – Rewiring The Brain with Dr. Jan BedellPodcast #19Sponsored by NOW Programs.

Neuroplasticity and rewiring the brain? Hmm? Do we really have to use such an unfamiliar word? Yes, to describe the amazing gift that God has given us we can start with a big word and break it down. It really is quite simple – “neuro” is having to do with the brain and “plasticity” is the ability to change. Our brains are changing all the time. This is really good news when you have a struggling learner or a child with a label like dyslexia, ADD, ADHD or autism. The key is knowing how to fuel the brain with the right kind of stimulation so it builds new pathways. From these new pathways, the brain can receive, organize, process and store information well enough to bring it out and use it in everyday life. With the right kind of stimulation, your brain can take little developmental steps to achieve giant strides in academics and overall function. That is what happens when you use the products and services of Little Giant Steps.

In this episode, you will hear the experience of a teacher that had taught first grade for 17 years before using The NeuroDevelopmental Approach in her classroom in year 18.It made a huge difference for her students and can make a difference for you and your family as well. Applying just a little information can make all the difference in your child’s future. We shouldn’t leave out the adults either! It is never too late to change the brain. Two ladies in their 50’s, one a reading tutor and the other a Montessori teacher who had always struggled with reading comprehension, raised their reading comprehension score by 3 œ years in only four months’ time. And guess what? They didn’t do any specific reading program. All it took was organization and specific stimulation to the brain and their abilities radically changed.

Visit our sponsor Little Giant Steps for information about

  • Free auditory processing kit – here
  • Help for math facts – here
  • Brain boosting products – here

The post Neuroplasticity – Rewiring The Brain appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Helping Our Kids Have Resiliency“We’re not just raising kids, we’re raising resilient adults. We’re raising spiritual beings.”

Join Lisa Nehring on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show in celebration of our 10th Birthday Celebration!

Episode Sponsored by the 11th Birthday Celebration Sponsors, CTC Math & More on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

In a world where people easily crumble like delicate snowflakes and take offense at the drop of a hat, it’s high time we pondered this vital question: Are our children truly growing in resiliency?

Are they emerging as fearless warriors, fortified with unyielding character and an indomitable spirit? Let me tell you, this remarkable gift of resiliency will serve as their secret weapon in navigating an increasingly secular world.

So join me on this resilience adventure as we explore the importance of resilience and why it’s high time we raise a generation of tenacious individuals who can conquer any challenge that comes their way. Trust me, it’ll be one heck of a ride.

Get Intentional!In her excellent book, appropriately titled, Grit, Angela Duckworth takes on the task of developing the idea of resilience in our children. She advocates for making resilience development a part of kids’ life skills curriculum.

I couldn’t agree more. Our kids need resilience. It’s what allows them to go out and compete, take risks, fail, and try again.

Key Ingredients for Developing ResiliencePractice– Practice is what lets us learn as we go. To practice and develop well, we must get assessments and feedback.
Purpose– Resilience is not always about pursuing those things that we might have a natural inclination toward. Students should consider pursuing something that they can develop an interest in over the long term.
Hope– This is tied to trying and failing. Failure is a huge part of developing resilience. We need to teach our kids that success does not come without failure. Winners keep pursuing goals despite setbacks.
Time– We need to set aside time to practice with deliberation, fail, and succeed.
Create Some Resilience Goals

Angela Duckworth has some practical recommendations for bestowing the remarkable gift of resilience to your children:Choose something that requires deliberate daily practice.
Commit to doing this activity for 2 years.
Finish what you’ve started for a specified interval.

Resources Mentioned in the PodcastAfter Action Your Homeschool Year


Find Lisa at the Life Skills 101 Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Top Podcast Episodes on Life Skills 101, formerly Soft Skills 101* Getting Started with Elementary Homeschool Education * The Cost of Parental Ignorance: Unveiling the True Price of Education * Learning Styles & Online Education

Check out True North Homeschool Academy

Our mission at True North Homeschool Academy is centered around the Compass, and that’s by design. It’s the heart of what we do, because we are heading True North with the Christian conviction that together our homeschools should transmit a culture of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, as we are headed True North, rooted in Christ.

True North Homeschool Academy is a virtual online learning experience with a small class size, and dynamic teaching from world-class teachers, with a focus on creating a one-of-a-kind educational experience families will love.


Thank you to our sponsor for the Birthday Celebration: CTC Math.

The post Helping Our Kids Have Resiliency with Lisa Nehring appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Embracing Productivity in HomeschoolingDuring my homeschool journey, I always aimed to start each new school year with increased productivity. However, “life” often seemed to get in the way. The real challenge was my resistance to creating lists, setting objectives, and establishing reasonable goals. By “reasonable,” I mean plans that don’t involve renovating a home while trying to homeschool and write a book—yes, I did that one year.

The Challenges of Multi-TaskingWe schooled out in our lanai (a fancy term for a screened-in back porch), and while I had my oven and refrigerator plugged in out there, I could almost say I homeschooled in my kitchen. During this time, my dad was moving in, and we were adding two rooms to our home’s back section, which meant extending the living room/kitchen area. What seemed like a simple project took a few months but was ultimately worth it. Afterward, I returned to our upstairs homeschool space and completed the new book I was writing (Information In Nutshell: Writing and Publishing).

Stress Management and ProductivityI realized that while multitasking was never an issue, managing stress was. After this period, I took a long break from writing and began revising some of my earlier works. Now, with productivity on my mind, I’ve asked my daughter Christina, who has authored many of the latest Media Angels planners, to contribute to this one as well. Christina excels in productivity and organization. Once she completes her homeschool journey, she should consider starting a business to help others organize their homes—she’s brilliant at it!

Christina’s Planner: Simplifying ComplexityChristina has a knack for taking complex ideas and making them simple. Hopefully, this month’s planner addresses some challenging concepts and breaks them down into manageable tasks. I especially appreciate her “lists” pages, which are organized into different subheadings. While I tend to lump lists together, her approach makes them more manageable and helps prioritize important tasks.

The Debate on Multi-TaskingThere’s ongoing debate about whether multi-tasking is effective. Many argue that it leads to incomplete tasks. However, my brain functions best with multi-tasking, though I often need to refocus to complete specific tasks. Below, you’ll find recommendations on whether to multi-task or not. Ultimately, the best choice is what works for you.

Homeschool Reporting and OrganizationThis planner includes blank pages in the “homeschool” section for adding subjects and ideas. I’m usually not a fan of blank pages in planners, but these provide a sample of how reports can look. Depending on the subjects you teach, your reports may vary. While report cards aren’t necessary, they can be rewarding for children to see their accomplishments or areas needing improvement. It also allows them to showcase their progress to family.

Maximizing ProductivityThrough my years of homeschooling and friendships, I’ve observed that the busiest people are often the most productive. They minimize distractions, avoid social media and phone calls during the day, and let calls go to voicemail. I learned that if I answered emails in the morning, I’d never start homeschooling due to the “fires” I needed to extinguish. Leaving them for the afternoon worked just fine.

Productivity starts with you and me. It’s about how much freedom you want to have to engage in activities you enjoy but may not have time for. With a bit of planning, those essential chores can be completed efficiently, leaving extra time for what you love.

Get Your Free Productivity in Your Homeschool Planner. << click here.Get a complimenatry 30 page printable full of actionable advice + forms you can use right away. Exclusively created for the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network by Media Angels.


Check our 12-Pack Character Counts Planners from Media Angels.Dive into Media Angels’ Character Counts Planners, your go-to for instilling essential Christian virtues in today’s youth. This set features 12 unique planners, each spotlighting a critical character trait such as Availability, Benevolence, Boldness, Compassion, Diligence, Creativity, Enthusiasm, Faith, Loyalty, Self Control, Tolerance, and Virtue. Designed with kids in mind, these planners seamlessly blend Christian values into daily life.

Peak Inside: Awareness Planner

Features of the Character Counts Planners: Explore 12 Virtues: Each month, tackle a new virtue. * Ready in a Snap: Simply open, print, and start. These planners are set for immediate use, perfect for busy schedules. * Engaging Content: Filled with activities and prompts, each planner invites kids to deeply interact with the virtues. Through questions and fun tasks, they’ll see how these traits fit into their lives. * Age-Adaptable: Whether for a young learner or a teen, the planners adjust to suit different age groups. The content is clear, relatable, and engaging for all. * Lay a Strong Foundation:* Beyond filling time, these planners build the groundwork for lifelong Biblical decision-making.

Give your child the gift of character education with Media Angels’ Character Counts Planners. They do more than organize schedules; they shape confident, compassionate, and responsible individuals. Open, print, go – and watch your child grow into their best self, one virtue at a time.

Be sure to check out our other planners.


Review of the Character Counts Planners“Hi there! I’m a mom who teaches my kid at home, and I found something super cool called the Character Counts Planners by Media Angels. I just had to tell you all about them because they’ve made a big difference for us. So, these planners are all about learning good qualities like being patient, kind, and thankful. There are 12 of them, one for each month, and they focus on different good traits. The best part? They’re super easy to use. You just open them up, print them out, and start learning. It’s perfect for when we’re super busy but still want to learn something important.”- Nakisha B.

The post Productivity Tips for Homeschooling appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Are you ready for an adventure through God’s amazing Creation? With our Creation Camp, you can explore the wonders of the world right from your home! Each day, you’ll dive into a new day of Creation with fun activities, experiments, and art projects.

Let’s explore what you’ll learn (scroll to bottom for details) and some fun ideas you can start with right way, teaching each day to your students!

And 
 don’t miss the Creation Science Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Day 1: Let There Be Light! On the first day, God created light, separating it from the darkness.

Teaching Idea:

  • Experiment with Light: Use a flashlight in a dark room to show how light can change the environment. Discuss how light helps us see and makes us feel safe.
  • Art Project: Create a “light and dark” collage using black and white paper. Let students cut out shapes and glue them to show the contrast between light and darkness.

Day 2: Sky and Water On the second day, God made the sky and separated the waters.

Teaching Idea:

  • Sky in a Jar: Fill a clear jar with water and add a few drops of blue food coloring. Shake it up to see how the water and sky might have looked.
  • Cloud Watching: Lie down outside and watch the clouds. Ask students to describe what they see and imagine the sky God created.

Day 3: Land, Sea, and Plants On the third day, God gathered the waters to create seas and made dry land appear. He also made plants and trees.

Teaching Idea:

  • Planting Seeds: Give each student a small pot and some seeds to plant. Watch them grow over the week and talk about how plants need water, light, and soil.
  • Create a Mini-Landscape: Use clay or playdough to create models of land and sea. Add small plants or grass to show vegetation.

Day 4: Sun, Moon, and Stars On the fourth day, God made the sun, moon, and stars to light up the sky.

Teaching Idea:

  • Star Gazing: Take students outside at night to look at the stars. Use a star map to identify constellations and talk about how vast the universe is.
  • Solar System Mobile: Make a mobile using paper or cardboard cutouts of the sun, moon, and stars. Hang them from strings to create a moving display.

Day 5: Birds and Fish On the fifth day, God created birds to fly in the sky and fish to swim in the sea.

Teaching Idea:

  • Bird Watching: Spend some time observing birds in your backyard or a local park. Have students draw the birds they see and describe their behaviors.
  • Fish Tank Fun: Set up a small fish tank or a bowl with fish (even paper ones!). Discuss different types of fish and their habitats.

Day 6: Animals and Humans On the sixth day, God created animals and humans.

Teaching Idea:

  • Animal Parade: Have students draw their favorite animals and share fun facts about them. You can also watch documentaries or read books about different animals.
  • Human Body Exploration: Discuss the human body and how amazing it is. Use diagrams to show how different parts of the body work.

Day 7: Day of Rest On the seventh day, God rested.

Teaching Idea:

  • Quiet Time: Encourage students to have some quiet time for reflection or reading. Discuss the importance of rest and how it helps us recharge.
  • Create a Relaxation Space: Make a cozy corner with pillows and blankets where students can relax, read, or meditate.

Join Our Creation Camp! Our Creation Camp kit comes with everything you need to host your own camp at home:

  • Teacher’s Manual: Complete day-by-day instructions, reproducible sheets, and directions for each activity, experiment, and art project.
  • Student Notebook: Activity sheets, crossword puzzles, vocabulary games, word search, and a separate field guide book to decorate and put together.

You can complete the camp in one week or spread it out over a longer period—it’s up to you!

Ready to start your Creation Camp adventure? Click here to learn more and get your kit today!

The post Host Your Own Creation Camp at Home! appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Easter’s hopping around the corner again, and it’s a fantastic time for fun, reflection, and family bonding. But as our little chicks grow into big birds, you might wonder how to keep the Easter magic alive. Fear not! Celebrating Easter with teens and young adults can be just as joyful and meaningful, with a sprinkle of creativity.

Easter Activities for Teens and Young Adults Gone are the days of simple egg hunts (or are they?). Here’s how you can elevate your Easter activities:

  • Epic Egg Challenge: Think outside the basket with a high-stakes egg hunt. Hide clues leading to a grand prize, or make it a digital scavenger hunt with QR codes!
  • DIY Decoration Station: Set up a craft area for making sophisticated Easter decorations. Think egg painting with a twist, using glow-in-the-dark paints or creating emoji eggs.
  • Cook-Off Competition: Whip up a storm with an Easter-themed cook-off. Who can make the best Easter brunch dish or the most creative chocolate treat?

Incorporating Tradition with a Twist Keep the traditions alive but with a twist that appeals to older kids:

  • Sunrise Service or Reflection: Attend a service together or have a moment of reflection at home, discussing its significance in a way that resonates with them.
  • Basket Building for Others: Instead of receiving, switch it up! Prepare Easter baskets for community members or a local charity, focusing on giving back.

Creating Lasting Memories The goal is to spend quality time together, creating memories that everyone will cherish. Capture these moments with a family photo shoot in your Easter best or create a video diary of the day’s activities. It’s about making each Easter memorable and special, no matter their age.

Easter with Teens and Young AdultsEaster with teens and young adults doesn’t have to be a head-scratcher. By adapting your celebrations to include more mature, interactive activities, you’ll keep the spirit of Easter alive and hopping. It’s a beautiful time to celebrate growth, renewal, and family bonds. So, let’s embrace this Easter with open hearts and a basketful of new traditions that your family will love for years to come.


Love these Easter ideas? Check out these podcasts.* Special Replay: Easter Celebrations On The Cheap * Easter Faith-Filled Family Activities

The post Celebrating Easter with Teens and Young Adults appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Creation MattersDoes Creation Matter? Why does the discussion on how God created the world matter? Did God really create the world in six days and rest on the seventh? Does anyone really care? These questions and many more including teaching tips and great resources are presented in the Creation Science Podcast, my name is Felice Gerwitz and it is my pleasure and honor to be your host.

Don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast! Do that here: SUBSCRIBE

Sponsored by Smash Maths

SMASH Maths provides 2 online math Practices every week for children.

Each Practice contains at least 10 bespoke questions, so that means 20+ questions a week. The program is available for pupils in Kindergarten to Grade 6. The cost is $7.50 per month.Use CODE: FELICE to receive your discount. Visit SMASHMATHS.org/homeschooling Find out more here: https://www.smashmaths.org/home-schooling/This podcast was an original work of the Creation Science Expo that I had the pleasure of hosting some years back, it is my pleasure to re-release it to you and share the importance of caring about our origins.Many times I’ve discussed the purpose of having a creationist perspective, and people would say, “Why do you care?” The reason I care is that I want my children to grow up with a Christian worldview and share that with their children, someday. In the writing of my Truth Seekers Mystery Series book, I had a “God-incident” that I share in this episode.

In a nutshell, I was rushed during the Christmas season and wanted nothing to do with the rereading of the draft copy of one of the novels. You see, as a novelist, and co-novelist at the (along with my then, college-aged daughter, Christina), I was the one in charge of final proofreading and I kept finding mistakes. I was frustrated. I threw up a heavenward prayer, “God are you sure you have the right person doing this job?” And, I wasn’t talking about the job of editing, I was talking about the job of being the “hands and feet” of God – spreading the word about the fallacies of evolutionary claims. Which these novels demonstrate in a fun-easy to read and mystery adventure. More about the TruthSeekersMysterySeries.com here.

Heading to a store to do last minute shopping, I happened upon a calling card placed in a nativity scene I was about to purchase. (The audio includes details about this, but here is the visual — a copy of the card:

Listen to the podcast for the rest of the story!

Be sure and check out our blog, HomeforLearning where you’ll find helpful science posts:

Do I Really Need to Teach Science in My Homeschool?

Teaching Science | Unit Study

How and What to Teach with Science

and visit our Creation Science Podcast page.

The post Creation Matters appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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The Fruit of the Spirit for MomsOur pastor recently did a sermon on the Fruit of the Spirit, and it inspired me to start a Bible study inside my private Christian parenting Facebook group. (By the way, anyone listening who’d like to join that group, I’d love to have you! You can click here to join.)

Over the last several weeks, we’ve been studying the Fruit of the Spirit, as it applies to motherhood.

Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Wow! Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are all things that I desire to be to my children as their mother.

So how can we attain this fruit of the Spirit?The way we attain the fruit of the Spirit that we desire is by faith through the Holy Spirit. But when we put God on the back burner, we experience what I have officially named “the fruit of the mom flesh.”

And here’s the Marianna version
 “But the fruit of the mom flesh is nagging, yelling, annoyance, harshness, manipulation, shaming, and lack of self-control.”

Ouch. I have no problem admitting that some of these qualities describe my parenting some days. But, I believe that there is hope in Christ.

Maybe you’re a mom who has blown it time and time again and you think there’s no hope for you to change. Perhaps you come from a long line of emotional abuse and you feel powerless to break the cycle. Maybe you feel like you’ve been mommin’ the same way for so long that there’s not even any point to try to change.

But here’s the good news for you today.Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control
.it’s not up to you to produce this fruit. In fact, it’s not even about you! It’s about Christ in you and the Holy Spirit working in your heart.

When we experience the gospel and the love that God has so lavished upon us, we cannot help but overflow with that love!

Be careful not to get stuck in this place of mom guilt. If you’re thinking to yourself, “Man, I just don’t embody these fruit of the spirit,” let me remind you. Pastor J.D. Greear says, “For every one look you take at yourself bemoaning your fruitlessness, take ten looks at Christ, boasting in his faithfulness.”

Scripture references“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13 NIV

“
’Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts.” – Zechariah 4:6 NIV

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33 NIV

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23 NIV


Join Marianna Chambers as she talks about practical ways to become a more peaceful parent. Having children is a wonderful blessing, but it can also be quite stressful. Every day we hear from moms just like you who are struggling to be the gentle parent they want to be. Moms desperately want to raise their children on a firm foundation of love, but those sweet kids sure know how to push our buttons. (And boy, do they push them!)

Marianna Chambers is a counselor, parenting coach, blogger, homeschool mom, and best-selling author. She’s passionate about supporting and encouraging moms. You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram, or read her blog here. You can also join her private Facebook group for Christian moms on a peaceful parenting mission.


Thanks to our Sponsor: Harper Collins Christian: Kingdom Girls Bible on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.Girls will discover the power of faith in this beautiful Bible that features women of the Bible! Here is the ideal Bible for girls on their journey of faith! This special Bible is specifically crafted to highlight the stories and lessons of the inspiring, famous, and sometimes infamous women of the Bible. With over 400 engaging features, colorful illustrations, and helpful notes, this Bible is perfect for girls ages 8 to 12 as they learn about the strong and faithful women who came before them. From Eve to Ruth, Esther to Mary, this Bible brings the stories of these women to life and shows how their faith and strength can still inspire girls today. Featuring a beautiful design and easy-to-read text, this Bible is a great resource for girls as they grow in their own faith and learn about the women who have impacted the world.

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Thanks to our sponsor, A Fanthom Presents Film – The Ark and The Darkness – Movie Trailer here: NoahsFlood

In theaters March 20-21! Noah’s Flood is preserved in ancient writings from every major culture around the world. Recent discoveries confirm what the Bible has said all along. Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics present: The Ark and the Darkness.

The Ark and the Darkness from Fathom FilmsThere is a tale over 4,000 years old, preserved in ancient writings from every major culture around the world. Many thought it was only a myth, but recent discoveries confirm what the Bible has said all along.

From Genesis Apologetics and award-winning Sevenfold Films’ director of Genesis: Paradise Lost, Sevenfold Films and Genesis Apologetics present The Ark and the Darkness: Unearthing the Mysteries of Noah’s Flood. Ancient history, volcanism, the fossil record—all of these and more converge on one simple point: Noah’s Flood actually happened.

Join our team of scientists from Answers in Genesis and Liberty University as we reveal the truth about Noah’s Flood. Mark your calendars for March 20-21, when this incredible film hits the theaters. Be prepared to experience the Genesis Flood like never before! This is a Fathom event.

Recommended Sponsored Podcasts for The Ark and the DarknessFrom your favorite podcasters: Vintage Homeschool Moms, Homeschool Sanity Show, Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Creation Podcast, Homeschooling IRL, Homeschool Podcast Show(s), and Homeopathy for Mommies.

  • When Mom Loses Control Of Her Mouth – HIRL Episode 55
  • Global Flood
  • Missions, Movies, and Lifeschooling (Replay) – David Cook
  • Laundry and Dishes and Dust–Oh My! FAH Episode 8 (Replay)
  • Homeless Homeschooling – HIRL Episode 124 (Replay)
  • Working And Homeschooling? Yes, You Can!
  • Family Health and Wellness – Medicine Cabinet
  • Showing LOVE after Valentine’s Day is OVER!
  • Keeping Christ the Center of Your Homeschool – Heidi St. John
  • Using Story To Teach Kids Truth
  • Replay: When My Convictions Aren’t Your Convictions – HIRL Episode 94
  • Best Kept Secrets ~ Happy Marriage
  • Encouraging Your Teen Driver – MBFLP 301
  • When Motherhood is Hard
  • Brave Noah and the Cruise of a Lifetime
  • Lighthouses of Florida
  • Laundry, Dust, and Dishes, Oh My!

The post The Ark and the Darkness : Coming to Theaters Soon appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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On this very special episode of Life as a Lifeschooler, I talk about Love in Homeschooling.

What an honor it is to recognize the work of Felice Gerwitz and 10 years in homeschool podcasting on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network!

Episode Sponsored by the 10th Birthday Celebration Sponsors, CTC Math & More on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network out the $350 giveaway, too!

Love in Homeschooling – Exploring how love plays a central role in homeschoolingOver time, love has become a central focus of my Christian walk, as I’ve realized how impactful this one concept of loving others can be. Jesus says that all the law and the prophets are summed up in “love God, love your neighbor as yourself.” If one thing can cover so much ground, it must be essential that we understand it!

In a very basic sense, when we homeschool our children, we are loving our neighbor as ourselves. We remember what school was like for us and we want better for them. We are sacrificing our own opportunities for income, self-fulfillment, and achievement in order to see our children successful and fulfilled.

But there are times we forget this motivation. Or the motivation becomes cloudy, tainted by the pressures, fears, and worldly ambitions we allow to enter our hearts.So it’s good to be reminded of what love really is. If we want to truly love, we must know what exactly love is. And to know exactly what love is, we must turn to the Bible’s definition in 1 Corinthians 13, the “love chapter.”

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Moms, you can have the perfect homeschool curriculum and teach with eloquence and simplicity, but if you don’t have love, you will fail your kids.You can even do it in the power of the Holy Spirit, according to this chapter, and still fail your kids! That’s how important love is to everything you do in life. In fact, love was so important to God that He sent Jesus to die for us. Love is at the very core of the Gospel! So we need to have a full understanding of it.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Now, let’s look at what love is
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

PatientAre you patient in teaching your children about 56 times in a day that 7×8 is 56? Are you patient in teaching them how to do their chores quickly and diligently? Or is your goal to check off the boxes and be done?

KindnessDo your children see you as an example of kindness? When they talk back and disrespect you, do you respond “in kind” or with kindness (and discipline, of course)?

Does Not Envy or BoastPride is the opposite of love. Pride is all about self, not God and others.

If you are busy making yourself feel accomplished from the shiny, perfect children you have raised, then your homeschooling is not about love. It is about boastfulness in your own achievements. If you look at others whose kids graduated high school at age 13 and think, “That’s not so great. We could have done that if we had wanted to,” then you may have an envious heart that has no room for love.

Not Arrogant or RudeThis again comes back to a prideful heart that is not focused on others. If you think you don’t need the advice or opinions of others in your homeschooling journey, then first of all, why are you here? And secondly, you may be arrogant.

Arrogance often leads to rudeness. When someone gently and lovingly corrects your parenting or offers a kind word of advice, do you respond rudely? When your children respectfully correct your teaching, pointing out an error in something you say, do respond graciously, thanking them for the information, or do you speak to them rudely? Is your instant reaction, “You’re being disrespectful!”?

Does Not Insist on its Own WayDo you insist on doing school in a way that works for you as the teacher? Or do you submit your own comfort to the needs and desires of your children in their learning?

Not Irritable or ResentfulDo you have to have your cup of coffee before you can be nice? Do you resent your children for keeping you from pursing your own career or hobbies? Or do you consider it a joy to sacrifice your own desires for the sake of their callings (and your highest calling)?

Does Not Rejoice at Wrongdoing, but Rejoices with the TruthAre you more focused on the wrongdoing of your children than what is good and true? Are you almost happy when you finally catch them doing something you had suspected of them so you can finally dole out the punishment they deserve? Or do you focus on their good behavior and rejoice when they choose to do right and follow truth?

Bears All ThingsDo you bear all the frustrated tears? The arguments? The lack of confidence? Do you encourage your children and give them a break when they are tired and burned out on school work?

Believes All ThingsDo you believe the best when your children fail? Do you try to see their hearts and give grace, even thought discipline may still be required?

Hopes All ThingsDo you tend to focus on the positive or the negative? Do you rest in the hope we have in Christ, that He is our strength and our “very present help in time of trouble”? Or do you allow fear to cripple you in your homeschooling and cause you to believe the enemy’s lies about your children’s future? Perfect love casts out fear! 1 John 4:18

Endures All ThingsAre you in it for the long haul or are you swayed by your feelings and doubts? If you are homeschooling out of love, you will endure the hardest days because you know spending each day with your child is the best way to get to his heart. If your decision to homeschool was made because of love, you will continue to homeschool because of love and nothing will move you.

Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.“Knowledge will pass away.” It is only a tool for advancing God’s Kingdom on this earth in the short time we have. Love is what really matters and what will transcend anything we can possibly teach.

“More is caught than taught.” We’ve all heard that phrase and it’s certainly true here. No matter how biblical your teaching; no matter how diligent you are with discipline; no matter how much information you manage to fill their brains with, if you are not doing it all in love, they will “catch” that and learn the lessons you are not meaning to teach. Children know whether they are being loved or controlled.

If you want to have a successful homeschool, with children who grow up to love and serve the Lord with their gifts, let Holy Spirit-empowered love be the central, guiding force in your homeschooling!

And that’s Life as a Lifeschooler! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Hope you’ll join us next time!


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Helping Our Kids Have Resiliency“We’re not just raising kids, we’re raising resilient adults. We’re raising spiritual beings.”

Join Lisa Nehring on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show in celebration of our 10th Birthday Celebration!

Episode Sponsored by the 10th Birthday Celebration Sponsors, CTC Math & More on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network out the $350 giveaway, too!

In a world where people easily crumble like delicate snowflakes and take offense at the drop of a hat, it’s high time we pondered this vital question: Are our children truly growing in resiliency?

Are they emerging as fearless warriors, fortified with unyielding character and an indomitable spirit? Let me tell you, this remarkable gift of resiliency will serve as their secret weapon in navigating an increasingly secular world.

So join me on this resilience adventure as we explore the importance of resilience and why it’s high time we raise a generation of tenacious individuals who can conquer any challenge that comes their way. Trust me, it’ll be one heck of a ride.

Get Intentional!In her excellent book, appropriately titled, Grit, Angela Duckworth takes on the task of developing the idea of resilience in our children. She advocates for making resilience development a part of kids’ life skills curriculum.

I couldn’t agree more. Our kids need resilience. It’s what allows them to go out and compete, take risks, fail, and try again.

Key Ingredients for Developing ResiliencePractice– Practice is what lets us learn as we go. To practice and develop well, we must get assessments and feedback.
Purpose– Resilience is not always about pursuing those things that we might have a natural inclination toward. Students should consider pursuing something that they can develop an interest in over the long term.
Hope– This is tied to trying and failing. Failure is a huge part of developing resilience. We need to teach our kids that success does not come without failure. Winners keep pursuing goals despite setbacks.
Time– We need to set aside time to practice with deliberation, fail, and succeed.
Create Some Resilience Goals

Angela Duckworth has some practical recommendations for bestowing the remarkable gift of resilience to your children:Choose something that requires deliberate daily practice.
Commit to doing this activity for 2 years.
Finish what you’ve started for a specified interval.

Resources Mentioned in the PodcastAfter Action Your Homeschool Year


Find Lisa at the Life Skills 101 Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Top Podcast Episodes on Life Skills 101, formerly Soft Skills 101* Getting Started with Elementary Homeschool Education * The Cost of Parental Ignorance: Unveiling the True Price of Education * Learning Styles & Online Education

Check out True North Homeschool Academy

Our mission at True North Homeschool Academy is centered around the Compass, and that’s by design. It’s the heart of what we do, because we are heading True North with the Christian conviction that together our homeschools should transmit a culture of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, as we are headed True North, rooted in Christ.

True North Homeschool Academy is a virtual online learning experience with a small class size, and dynamic teaching from world-class teachers, with a focus on creating a one-of-a-kind educational experience families will love.


Thank you to our sponsor for the Birthday Celebration: CTC Math.

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November is the lead-in to the holidays. However, we’ve got this! Say the word, “November” and breathe
take a breath and breathe it in! Can you feel the excitement? The smell of festivities is in the air! I love this time of year. It is a time to focus on being thankful to God for all he has given me, and then quickly move into preparing my mind, heart, home, and family to celebrate Jesus’s birth. What a blessing! I am praying this planner helps you to avoid the stress and instead allows you to focus on the big picture. This month’s planner begins with our signature ultimate organizing and planning tools! Each month, I am determined to make each edition of Organize-IT the best ever. I am so excited to present you with a planner that promises to help you organize this holiday season and your schedule.**


Post Sponsored by the 10th Birthday Celebration Sponsors of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network out the $350 giveaway, too!

I wanted to find a way to incorporate the hustle and bustle and long list of fun things to do for the holidays with a homeschool mom’s never-ending list of to-dos! So, I started researching and
reading about block scheduling, I decided to try it and introduce it to you. You may be way ahead of me and already use this method, or you may think, “I have heard of it but don’t know
what it is!” Well, get your schedule primed and ready to work for and not against you. This will take you beyond the lists and to-dos. Of course, those have a time and a place, but what is a
well-thought-out list if you fail to implement it and make it past the first few items?

In this planner, we will begin with a list but end with a solid plan, a schedule that blocks off your time so you can have order in your life.A purpose so clear, it allows you to focus all your efforts
on what is right in front of you for that small window of time; no need to worry about the lengthy to-do list because it will get done in due time. I am excited to offer you an organizing plan focusing on your day. As homeschooling families, I know you typically spend a lot of time jumping from homeschooling to household chores and back to schooling while taking care of the little kids and sometimes fitting in a side job.

In my family food is a priority, or I might have a revolt! I’m only partially kidding. ;-)Today, a friend asked what I do when I feel overwhelmed. I answered, “I do the next thing, right before me!” I don’t focus on being overwhelmed, because I can’t. I have too many people who depend on me. (A simple prayer of “Lord, please help me,” goes a long way as well!)

Of course, we all get overwhelmed at times, but doing the next thing has worked well for me and fits in perfectly with block scheduling.Block scheduling is planning your day, not letting your day run you. I love that it utilizes your to-do lists but doesn’t make you a slave to it! Unfortunately (for me), it is not a way to cram more
into your day. Instead, it helps you to find more time! It’s a way of limiting distractions and procrastinating so you have more time to do what you want to do.

Look at your list. Do you have a project you’re dying to finish? Put it in a block. Are you behind on homeschooling a particular subject and need a day to catch up or review? Put it in a block!
Want to find time to exercise? Put it in the block. Do you see where this is going? In the following pages, I’ll help you schedule your time so that you can focus, thrive and accomplish. I was
pleasantly surprised by how well this has worked for me.

Take a look at your homeschool schedule, is there a way to pair down your commitments so we can embrace the holiday season?By focusing on the meaning of the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons we are teaching life lessons. I typically stick to the bare essentials of school, like math, writing, and reading, so we have plenty of time to make crafts, bake, and enjoy the weather. The older kids can work on their school work separately to complete their assignments, especially in high school, and join in the fun as their schedule permits.

The goal is to organize your day, travel plans if you have any, and Thanksgiving bucket lists. The theme in all of the Organize-IT planners is balance. Pick and choose the forms that work for your
family—doing it all doesn’t always work. Balance is important. If a form doesn’t work for your family, skip it and move on.

Your holiday schedule should offer flexibility.This allows children time to pursue things of interest. This is something that I feel is so important. Kids are burned out and often overscheduled. Hopefully, with this Organize-IT Planner, you can invest your time wisely.

Looking for more information?You will find the topic of organization, as well as many others, on the UltimateHomeschoolPodcastNetwork.com, and Vintage Homeschool Moms.

If you are a long-time subscriber, you will find some of the forms the same as in past planners. This allows you access to the forms you love from last month’s planner. For example, you will receive
the blank calendars as well as the 4-Square Plan in each monthly planner, along with those on setting short and long-term goals.

Have a fantastic and Blessed November!

~ Blessings, Christina Moss

Sign Up Here:Get convenient links to all the latest homeschool podcasts each week- PLUS new printables every month! A free gift from the author, Felice Gerwitz, Ultimate Homeschool Radio owner and podcaster at Vintage Homeschool Moms!

Disclosure Statement regarding affiliates and partnerships.

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Finding Balance with Working from Home and HomeschoolingArticle author: Gina Steffy

Join us as we celebrate 10 years of homeschool podcasting on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network. Don’t miss the giveaway.

Thank our podcast sponsor: CTC Math.

Homeschooling Work-Life Balance

In this episode of “Homeschooling Work-Life Balance,” we’re delving into the intricate challenge of balancing a full-time job while homeschooling.

Full-Time Work & Full-Time Family LifeJuggling homeschooling and a full-time job? Bet you’re pretty tired. #ihearyouIf you’re employed with full-time work inside or outside the home, your work tasks can leave feeling overwhelmed when trying to balance this with homeschooling. It can take a toll on your mental health and you might feel like one more Zoom call will end you.

Even with older children, the demands of being a full-time homeschooling parent are a lot to juggle. Take a deep breath, I have some good news for you. You can be a homeschooling mom and learn to gracefully juggle all.the.things.

One thing I’ve learned over the past year (or 5!), is that embracing a daily schedule as a working mom is key.When I say schedule, think flow. Give yourself lots of grace and know that you can’t possibly be all things to all people. Take the little bit of help when it’s offered, for example:* Can a spouse or friend (or the kids themselves if old enough) be present at some of the extracurricular activities that your family has chosen to participate in? * Can you manage to have a home office if working from home? Have a space to separate yourself from the rest of your work (raising your family), can give you a mental break at the end of the day. * Consider a block schedule or loop schedule, not just for your homeschooling, but for your business. * If you’re a single mother, take an honest look at your best helpers, including family, friends, and church. I’m a big believer in taking help with younger children when it’s offered and you feel comfortable with it. * Is it in your budget to hire your tribe? Seriously, Task Rabbit, Facebook friends who are local and trying to also launch a business while homeschooling could be among the best tips you have for getting some time back.

Let’s join Vicki Tillman for her seasoned advice for homeschool schedules and additional resources and ideas to give us the highest quality time in the most effective way.


Vicki works as a counselor in her regular job, and offers life and career coaching services at vickitillmancoaching.com. Vicki helped found a large homeschool “umbrella school” and served that community for almost 20 years as an upperclassmen academic advisor and teacher (where she helped hundreds of students take the next steps toward college or career). She graduated all 5 of her children from homeschool. They are all pursuing or have completed varying levels of college degrees from BA to PhD.

Sabrina, Vicki and Kym are your Big Sisters as they share the experience they’ve gained in over 20 years of homeschooling. They are the talky-3 of the 6 Sisters at 7SistersHomeschool.com. They are often joined by their other sisters, Kym and Marilyn OR other 7th Sisters! When YOU join us at The Homeschool Highschool Podcast, YOU will be our 7th Sister, too! Hooray!!

Come be our 7th Sister each week for The Homeschool Highschool Podcast, Tuesday mornings at 9:00 am EST!

We love community, so come be part of ours! We want to help your homeschool high school experience to be the best ever!* Subscribe to The Homeschool Highschool Podcast at iTunes.com! * Show Calendar shows you what is coming up next! * Meet us on Social Media on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.


Additional Resources:* How to Choose the Right Work-from-Home Opportunity for You * Working While Homeschooling, Interview with Julie Smith Mendez * How to Balance Working from Home While Homeschooling

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Enter the Birthday Giveaway

It’s that time of year when holiday decorations are everywhere you turn. Some make me shudder, and others, well, let’s just say a decorating course or two would be beneficial to those people. I love to decorate my home with silk flowers in the theme of “fall” since I live in southwest Florida, where the weather still inches up to the 80s, and if I could, I would spend time at the beach daily.

Since we can’t enjoy fall weather or the leaves changing, I decorate with as much color as I can and enjoy this beautiful warm weather and my flower arrangements. I’m preparing another blog about those – didn’t know I had a flare for artsy, did you? As a result, I have a feeling of thankfulness and cheer. So, it was not surprising that I recently received a prayer journal that was along that theme.

Thankfulness JournalSeveral years ago, when I was feeling very stressed, a lady sent me her draft of a document entitled “I Surrender.” She wanted me to publish her book, but instead, I ended up helping her to self-publish. However, in the midst of this project, it hit me – the Lord was asking me to surrender everything to Him.

So here I am, wondering how to instill joyfulness and thankfulness in my children at this time of the year, and what comes across my desk? Or more accurately, what comes to me via email in a PDF format? Yes, another book, this time geared for families and especially children!

I’ve noticed that some homeschool moms find it incredibly easy to fashion a book from something they’ve been teaching to their children or something that is on their hearts, and some frankly, are pretty bad. So I’m always hesitant when someone sends me a book to review, especially when I know them. This young mother, who happens to be the very talented lady who created this website, sent a draft of a prayer journal. I love prayer journals, so I’m admitting it would have to be pretty bad for me not to like it. But what I really loved was the theme of this journal: “Be Thankful.”

“Be Thankful”
doesn’t that make you smile?The journal is for any time of the year, and it can be pulled out when you are at a low point and need a jolt to remind you to seek God and find those places that are hidden from Him or ones you need to surrender. The journal ever so gently walks you through the process, but the keyword here is gently. The author, Amanda Pelser, does not hit you over the head with the idea of thankfulness or how you must do this or that. She guides you and encourages you to listen to that still voice and search your heart.

We often teach our children that faith must be acted upon. In my own home, I have the freedom to pray and share the Good News with my children. It is such a blessing, but today was one of those opportunities to put faith into action, and we stood with our brothers and sisters in Christ for the 40 Days for Life March in our town. My children are thankful that I chose life, and we discuss the importance of praying for others who are in dire circumstances. In fact, my children held signs that said, “A baby changes everything.” Isn’t that true?

When we came home, I was able to emphasize being thankful for the many printables for the children in this journal. In fact, the Scripture we used for copywork was Psalm 86:12:

“I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name forevermore.”

If I had little ones, which I don’t, I could easily substitute this for a handwriting lesson.What better way to practice handwriting than with Scripture verses on being joyful and thankful? This got me thinking, isn’t thankfulness and gratitude some of the character traits we want our children to have?

It is. And I created a series of planners for kids to use to cultivate them. They are the Character Counts Planners.Introducing the Character Counts Planners, a powerful tool to instill essential values in your children. With 12 character themes, these planners focus on virtues like Patience, Justice/Honor, Thriftiness, Awareness, Decisiveness, Forgiveness, Determination, Flexibility, Punctuality, Generosity, Gratefulness, and Joy. Our Character Planners are designed to nurture your child’s personal growth and character development. They’re easy to use, just open, print, and go!

Each planner is a gateway to meaningful discussions and activities that reinforce these qualities. Empower your kids to embrace Patience, learn about Justice and Honor, practice Thriftiness, cultivate Awareness, make wise decisions, extend Forgiveness, show Determination, adapt with Flexibility, honor Punctuality, celebrate Generosity, be Grateful, and spread Joy.

Foster a foundation of strong character with the Character Counts Planners.

Order here.

In what ways will you teach your children to be thankful? I’m open to any ideas or suggestions you may have for me!


Vintage Homeschool Moms preserves the best of the past while blessing future generations with the fruit that comes from putting God first and using the experience as a teacher. Your host, Felice Gerwitz, is a Christian wife, mother, and educator-turned-homeschool-mom in 1986. She began homeschooling as a trial and never looked back. Felice’s topics range from home education, child-rearing, enterprising moms, SAHM (Stay at Home Moms), WAHM (Work at Home Moms), and so much more.


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Teaching Tips You Can Use In Your HomeschoolThis blog post sponsored by: Math Mammoth| With Math Mammoth’s clear explanations and mastery-based curriculum, your students will be set up for success in algebra and in real life!

After over thirty years of homeschooling, I have so many teaching tips that really work! And, I love my children, and no one loves my children more than I do! No one. So, who is the best teacher? I am (and so are you)!

Even the most highly degreed teacher doesn’t have what you do and with all of the resources available today you don’t need to know the information to teach it. My children’s education has centered around everything from hands-on materials, to science labs taught at home and trips to visit historical sites. We collected rocks in Georgia, climbed mountains (they climbed, I watched), went on hiking trips to various falls, collected fall leaves (we live in Florida so this was a treat), visited Washington DC, went to Canada and New York among many other places. Our learning was experiential and memorable.

And that is the crux. Teaching should be memorable or what is the point? Fast forward and all of my kids are now adults and successful in college, their jobs and with their families.

In a nutshell here are some of my Top 20+ Teaching Tips.1. One of my favorite teaching tips is creating a Family Statement of Faith – either a scripture verse or a motto. (As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.) 2. This is another of my favorites! We begin every day with prayer – praying for others, The Pledge of Allegiance (someone got to hold the flag each day), and basic memory work depending on their age. 3. A plan. Do you have a schedule? A list of books you will use? An actionable plan with goals. 4. Don’t recreate the school in the home. Recess, lunch breaks, etc. Do try to take a moving break in between subjects, it helps stimulate the brain
 No electronics – not even a computer except if you need it for school.Phones away from the school area. 5. Organization is your friend. (Links) Organization Link here) Be sure to keep a large notebook with samples of the child’s work for each year. It can be divided into subjects and added to weekly or at least every two weeks. It makes the end-of-the-year evaluation so much easier. 6. Have time to do school and protect this time from interruption. 7. Plan outings – field trips, or even trips to the dentist (which can be used as a field trip no matter what the age!) If these are on a master schedule it really helps. 8. A year-long schedule 9. Give your children a chance to speak in front of the family. This builds public speaking skills. 10. Resources – I loved teaching with charts (more on this later), real books, and biographies (will do a podcast on this as well). This network is a great resource UHPN! Homeschool Highschool Podcast, College Prep Genius, Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Homeschool Sanity, Homeopathy for Mommies, Finish Well Radio, Homeschooling with Technology, Life as a Lifeschooler, Soft Skills, and so many more in our More Shows category. 11. My recommendation with little kids is lots of hands-on and experiential learning. 12. Teaching phonics, with a tactile approach (saltbox), etc, is important and basic math concepts. 13. Multiple modalities like reading, writing, listening, discussions, and even acting or presenting the information. While tests are often expected in learning settings I avoided these and instead used opportunities to test my children’s ability to remember. 14. Reading kids good books begins when they are tiny and in our family extends through their teen years. We read a wonderful series like Little House on the Prarie and so many more. Some of our happiest memories surround reading. 15. Learning is based on the interest of the child, the interesting information and the instructor’s ability to engage. If you look at school like it is a chore your children will as well! 16. Memorization using charts. We had number charts, fraction charts, bird charts, birds of prey, the states, the musical instruments in an orchestra and so many other charts. I used these each morning or during our breaks from schoolwork in order to break up the day, and have a fun activity that they enjoyed. I even made up a “test” of sorts. A list of the birds for example and when I pointed to them the kids could tell me the name of the bird. 17. Read the material ahead and give a brief explanation with key points written on a marker board. (The kids can take notes. Answer questions, orally or by researching it.) 18. Have the student read a book and write a one or two-page synopsis – they can teach the “class” what they learned. 19. Incremental – with books you read, and workbooks/questions that are answered. 20. Unit study. You become immersed in a topic or subject. You teach it through history, science, art – even music. You can study almost every subject (except for math) using this approach. 21. Student lead – the child can explore topics of interest and learn all about it. 22. Performances – kids learn by teaching others, as well as giving an oral report. Make this a key part of your homeschool even if you have an only child. Bring over friends and do this together.

Teaching tips that are the most useful are the ones that you feel will make your life easier!

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The joy of getting things done! I can see very big changes that have taken place in my life. And it took a very simple commitment on my part and sticking to it! You see, I’m married to a procrastinator who is also a perfectionist. On the other hand, I like to get things done [
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In the realm of homeschooling, parents play a pivotal role in nurturing their child’s intellectual growth. Among the essential skills they impart, reading holds a prominent place. Developing strong reading abilities is crucial, as it opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and lifelong learning. Today, we’ll explore the benefits of incorporating an online reading program into [
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Hey there, students and parents! September is here, and it’s that time of year when we get back to school, whether it’s in a classroom or at home. This month, let’s set some goals and aim for greatness in our homeschooling journey. Imagine unlocking your full potential and making learning a fun adventure with your [
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Back to School Checklist for Special Needs Homeschooling Every year, when we began school, it was with joy and a bit of trepidation. At this point, I did not have a checklist for my Special Needs Homeschooling. I didn’t have a. I wondered what surprises the new school year would hold. We began by reviewing [
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Neuroplasticity – Rewiring The Brain with Dr. Jan Bedell Podcast #19 Neuroplasticity and rewiring the brain? Hmm? Do we really have to use such an unfamiliar word?  Yes, to describe the amazing gift that God has given us we can start with a big word and break it down.  It really is quite simple – [
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Are you a homeschool mom gearing up for a new school year? Or perhaps you’re considering homeschooling for the first time? No matter where you are on your homeschooling journey, one thing’s for certain – staying organized is key to a successful and stress-free experience. Homeschool organization doesn’t have to be hard. In this article, [
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LCP Ep 5: What to Include in Your Middle and High School Language Arts Study What do you need to include during the middle school years in Language Arts to make sure your learner is ready to tackle high school work? What kind of Language Arts and English program would colleges be looking for and [
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Teaching the Bible with Movies Hey there, homeschoolers! Are you ready to dive into an exciting world where movies meet the Bible? If you love stories and adventures, you’re in for a treat. We’re about to show you how movies can take you on a thrilling ride through the pages of the Bible, helping [
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Homeschooling is a beautiful journey filled with ups and downs, challenges, and triumphs. As a homeschool mom, you have taken on the noble responsibility of educating and nurturing your children at home, providing them with a personalized learning experience. However, like any journey, there might be times when you feel overwhelmed or unsure of your [
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Would it be great to have homeschool do-overs? What’s a homeschool do-over? It’s when you get the opportunity to learn from others and make pivots in your homeschool. The benefit? Besides the wisdom, you can have a homeschool with no regrets. It’s time to get mom wise! Homeschooling is a deeply rewarding experience for both [
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Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity for parents to tailor their child’s education to suit their individual needs and interests. One effective approach to achieve this is through unit studies. A unit study is an in-depth exploration of a particular topic, encompassing various subjects like history, science, literature, and art. By designing your own unit study, [
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The post Creating Your Own Unit Study: A Homeschooler’s Guide to Personalized Learning appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Does Creation Matter? Creation matters, yes. Why does the discussion on how God created the world matter? Did God really create the world in six days and rest on the seventh? Does anyone really care? These questions and many more including teaching tips and great resources are presented in the Creation Science Podcast, my name [
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When it comes to homeschooling, parents have the unique opportunity to tailor their children’s education to their individual needs and interests, including the opportunity to embrace math. While some subjects may come naturally and spark excitement, others can be met with resistance, and math often falls into the latter category for many homeschooling parents. However, [
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The post Embracing Math: Why Homeschoolers Shouldn’t Shy Away from Numbers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Navigating the Digital Battlefield: Staying True to Your Christian Faith in a Hostile Online World In today’s interconnected world, the internet has become a virtual battleground where ideas clash, opinions collide, and hostility seems to lurk around every corner. As a Christian, it can be challenging to maintain your faith amidst the chaos and negativity. [
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There are secrets for moms you are most likely unaware of, even if you’ve been a mom for years! You are a rock star, even if you never sing on stage! And you are amazing, even if you never tour Europe. You are special because of who you are, not what you do! Secrets For [
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Organizing makes everything go better, and this month our focus is on party planning. In my experience, this allows for less stress and a successful event everyone will enjoy in the moment and remember for years to come. How Do You Plan Parties? How do you plan parties? Maybe you are an expert, or perhaps [
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Incredible Meal Planning Tips for Homeschoolers: Have Fun and Save Time with the Organize It! Planner for April As a homeschooling parent, you have a lot on your plate – literally and figuratively! In addition to managing your child’s education, you also have to think about meals for the day. With busy days and multiple [
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Games that Teach Do you have a homeschooler who loves to have fun and learn at the same time? You’re in luck! With an array of entertaining and educational games for your homeschool, you can find something for every learning level and interest. From the classics like Scrabble and Monopoly to the latest apps and [
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Every day we’re bombarded with scientific data and facts. From climate change to quantum physics, we’re told to just trust the science and believe – no questions asked. But the reality is that interpretation of scientific information is far more nuanced than that and is colored by each person’s worldview and preconceived biases, and yes- [
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Raising a special needs child brings its own unique set of challenges, and teaching them at home can seem daunting. However, science doesn’t have to be one of them. With a little creativity, patience, and a few helpful tips, you can successfully make science learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both you and your [
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Virtual Field Trips: Turn Web Browsing into a Goal-Oriented Educational Experience! By Felice Gerwitz As a product of the late 70’s college education classes, I learned school should be steeped in “fun,” and the key element in a child’s school experience should be “feel good” and “self-esteem” driven. While the “open classroom” has been a [
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Don’t Wanna Obey? One story from the bible that I go to often is Jonah. You can learn alot about obedience and forgiveness from Jonah. Many people don’t wanna obey, and they focus on the part of the story where Jonah spends time in the belly of the big fish. My favorite part comes after [
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In the previous episode, we began talking about my FREEDOM toolbox–7 tools for making the most of our time so that we can live balanced, peaceful lives. These are the tools: Focus Reflect Educate Eliminate Discipline Organize Multitask Today we’ll look at the third tool: Educate. It’s easy for homeschooling moms to get so caught [
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Destination: Inspiration – Thriving. With Crystal Paine, Money Saving Mom Crystal Paine from Money Saving Mom joins Jen Reyneri on the program today to talk about moving away from an overwhelming life and moving on to a life of writing and travel. Hear some of Jen’s tips and Crystal’s most inventive ways to manage and [
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Teach Creation To Kids With A Novel When you teach creation to kids it can seem overwhelming, perhaps you don’t know where to begin. In this interview (listen to the first one here), author Felice Gerwitz interviews her co-author, and daughter Christina Gerwitz Moss. Christina had a passion for writing and she turned her interest [
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Another label has emerged for individuals that are having learning challenges – it’s CAPD. CAPD stands for Central Auditory Processing Disorder and is also referred to as APD or Auditory Processing Disorder.  There are different aspects of this “disorder” that negatively affect a person’s ability to function fully.  Symptoms include: Difficulties in recognizing and interpreting [
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LCP Ep 13: Developing Language Skills in your Young Learner   The time to start reading and developing language skills in your young learner is now. Reading at least 15 minutes per day from the time your child is an infant and even through high school will not only promote a bond with your child [
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LCP Ep 12: Using Higher Order Thinking Skills in Your Reading   Are you wondering what we mean by “higher order thinking skills” or “critical thinking skills”? And what do you do with them and how do you teach them to your children? And how are you supposed to do that with reading? Visit Katie’s [
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LCP Ep 11: Essential Writing in your Homeschool High School   Do you have a middle or high schooler and you are wondering what do you need to teach them for writing for credit or for preparation for college? Intimidated by the kind of essays that are usually included during high school and are necessary [
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LCP Ep 10: Teaching your Struggling Writer How to Write Have you ever seen your learners with “a deer caught in headlights” look when holding a pencil over a blank piece of paper? Is it a struggle to get your child to write down more than a word or two? Visit Katie’s website for more [
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LCP Ep 9: Valuable Benefits from Reading Classic Literature in your Homeschool     Do you cringe when you think about “classic literature”? Are you intimidated by the thought of tackling challenging vocabulary or complex sentences that seem to go on and on? Visit Katie’s website for more fun ideas and tips to use in [
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Ironically, when your family is together almost all the time, it can be challenging to pull away from the demands of homeschooling to just enjoy being together and have fun as a family. But taking a break is good for parents and children alike. In this episode, I’ll share some of my favorite ways to make special family memories, including building family traditions, spending one-on-one time with each child, exploring the world, and enjoying the journey as well as the destination.

I’d love to hear from you. What special family traditions do you enjoy?


Joyful Balance for Busy Moms Are you exhausted? Overloaded? Teetering on the brink of burnout? Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, work-at-home mom, or homeschooling mom, it’s easy to be paralyzed by an overwhelming to-do list. False guilt only adds to the burden.

Mary Jo Tate—an international editor, book coach, and veteran homeschooling mom of four boys—wants to help you find peace in the space between the ideal and reality so you can stop struggling and start flourishing. Learn how to:

· Stop the juggling act and find a balance you can live with

· Minimize interruptions while being sensitive to real needs

· Take care of yourself so you can take care of your family

· Value and protect your time to do what matters most

· Establish a pace you can maintain for the marathon of life

Visit the show page for replays here

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LCP Ep 8: Essential Guide to Out of the Box Book Report Ideas and Literary Study

Running out of ideas for what to do when your learner finishes reading a book?

Are you looking for book report ideas or ways to conduct a literary study and keep your learner interested?

Visit Katie’s website for more fun ideas and tips to use in your homeschool at Katie’s Homeschool Cottage or her Facebook Group. Join Katie Glennon as she shares tons of fun and creative out of the box Book Report and Literary Study Ideas to get even your most reluctant reader excited about reading.

You’ll be surprised and excited by the ways you can use your child’s strengths, interests, learning styles, and talents to capture their interest in reading and conducting a literary study while learning about literary devices and story elements and practicing different kinds and levels of thinking skills at the same time.

Show Notes I usually present to my students and my own children different choices of activities after reading a book where I want them to do some of kind of literary analysis or learn specific skills and concepts. The activity would focus on that skill and concept, but the type of activity would be geared to the learners’ learning styles, personal interests and talents so that they will be motivated and interested.

These activities are geared toward specific skills or concepts that are included in the literary and story elements for the book, but are of a nature to make sure to capture the interest of the learner.

The ideas below are just a list of ideas that are fully explained in the Podcast and summarized with descriptions in this printable handout – Descriptions of Out of the Box Book Report and Literary Study Ideas to Motivate your Readers pdf

Book Report and Literary Study Ideas Geared toward the Visual Learner Construct a mobile

Write an advice column

Character email or letter exchange

Character Facebook Page

Journal or Diary

Character Resume and Cover Letter

Character Dossier

Retell the story from a different point of view

Symbolic Time Capsule or Museum Exhibit or Suitcase or Collection

3 D Relief Map or a Diorama (For Hands-on learner as well)

Photo Album

Foldable Display Board

Drawing Projects (Book Jacket, Comic Strip, Collage, Flip Book or Trading Cards)

Mini Quilt

Charts (Timeline, plot map, analogy chart, Literary Devices Chart, Compare and Contrast Books or Authors)

Wordle

Ideas for the more Auditory Learner Drama (Acting as a character or author, a monologue, a speech, a dramatic reading, a mock trial, puppet show)

Write poetry, songs, or raps

Book Club (just discussions, a tea, a party centered around a book with costumes as characters, theme games and refreshments)

Audio or Video Recording (talk show interview as a character or an author)

Radio Play (Imitate an old fashioned radio show with sound effects and character voices of a scene)

Videos – (News report, movie trailer, commercial, sales pitch – recording video or using animation software or creating movie with Power Point or Prezi)

Ideas Geared toward Hands-on Learners Games – (Create board game or a game to play, or scavenger hunt)

Cooking and Baking

Be sure to comment in the Comments box any ideas you’d like to share that your family has used in engaging your reluctant reader! Any great book titles or authors to suggest? I would love to hear from you!

Thanks for visiting! Come back and visit the Literary Cafe Podcast for November’s topic when we discuss why you should study the classics and the benefits! You’ll be surprised by what your learner will receive from reading these books that have withstood the test of time and why many people treasure them and read them over and over!

Make sure you download our podcast at iTunes or subscribe to the Literary Cafe Podcast by clicking on the Android or RSS feed buttons below the recording on this page!

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Flourish At Home

People often ask me how I manage to homeschool and run a home business as a single mom. One of the most important factors is that I have taught my sons how to run the household. In this episode, I’ll talk about how to train your children to be independent and responsible, how to take initiative, and how to serve others cheerfully. These four things will prepare your children well for adulthood and contribute greatly to building a balanced life for your whole family now.

These sample chore charts will give you an idea of how I allocated housework and other responsibilities among my sons at different stages of our family life:

Training Your Children – Sample Chore Charts

How do YOU teach your children responsibility, independence, initiative, and service? After you listen to the podcast, please leave a comment and share your best tips with us!


Joyful Balance for Busy Moms Are you exhausted? Overloaded? Teetering on the brink of burnout? Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom, work-at-home mom, or homeschooling mom, it’s easy to be paralyzed by an overwhelming to-do list. False guilt only adds to the burden.

Mary Jo Tate—an international editor, book coach, and veteran homeschooling mom of four boys—wants to help you find peace in the space between the ideal and reality so you can stop struggling and start flourishing. Learn how to:

· Stop the juggling act and find a balance you can live with

· Minimize interruptions while being sensitive to real needs

· Take care of yourself so you can take care of your family

· Value and protect your time to do what matters most

· Establish a pace you can maintain for the marathon of life

Visit the show page for replays here


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Change is in the Air Movie

This story embraces the imperfections that make us human, offers a way to set ourselves free and asks us all to take a good, long look at the wild birds in the sky.

Watch the trailer here!


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LCP Ep 7: Ultimate List of Fun Ways to Engage your Reluctant Reader

Do you have a reader who is “reluctant” or has no interest in reading? Is it a battle to get them to show any interest in a book?

This is a common problem and you are not alone. I fought that battle and overcame it while teaching in the classroom and in our homeschool!

Visit Katie’s website for more fun ideas and tips to use in your homeschool at Katie’s Homeschool Cottage or her Facebook Group. Join Katie Glennon as she discusses fun ways to engage your learners in reading and offers suggestions of kinds of books and book titles to capture your child’s interest in a story. There are plenty of activity suggestions for all ages to get everyone in your home reading and enjoying it. Reading can be a fun, interactive experience instead of a chore.

Show Notes Suggested Books and Activities for Reluctant Readers pdf (Printable for you to download)

Suggested Books and Activities for Reluctant Readers Mostly For your Younger Readers Books and Activities for Cooking

Hedgehog Bakes a Cake by Maryann Macdonald

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis (upper elementary) Turkish Delight

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien (middle and high school) Hobbit Food

The Lord of the Rings series (high school) Second Breakfast

12 Recipes Inspired by your Favorite Children’s Books

31 Recipes Inspired by Popular Children’s Books

Books to Inspire Cooking with Children

Books with Printable Mini Books and Manipulatives (Story Props) The Very Hungry Caterpillar

More The Very Hungry Caterpillar printables

Make Your own Books – Gingerbread Man

Make Your own Books – ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

Make Your own Books – Little Red Riding Hood

Almost 100 Story Patterns to Use

Circular or Chain Stories with Predictable Patterns Predictable Books

Funny Unexpected Stories The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka

Who Pushed Humpty Dumpty? By David Levinthal

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

There is a Bird on your Head by Mo Willems

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin

Giggle, Giggle, Quack: Duck for President by Doreen Cronin

The Hoboken Chicken Emergency by Daniel Pinkwater

Anansi Trickster Tales – Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock

Seasonal and Holiday Activities for Themed Books Fun Fall Ideas with a Printable Fall Scavenger Hunt

Reading Incentive Programs

Pizza Hut Book It Program

Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program

Chuck E. Cheese Rewards

Six Flags

Reading Rewards

Interactive Doodle or Draw Your Own Story and Pick Your Own Adventure Books

Draw It Yourself Adventures

Doodle Adventures

Choose Your Own Adventure

Choose Your Own Story– Minecraft

An Interactive History Adventure

Be sure to comment in the Comments box any ideas you’d like to share that your family has used in engaging your reluctant reader! Any great book titles or authors to suggest? I would love to hear from you!


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor, Kiwi Crate!

We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor, Kiwi Crate!

KiwiCo has monthly subscriptions of hands-on projects that make learning fun! Their core offering is projects that make learning about STEAM — science, technology, engineering, art, and math — accessible and are designed to spark creativity, tinkering, and learning. Some recent favorite crates are the Slime Lab, Physics Carnival, and Paper Circuits.

Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network is excited to be able to offer you the chance to try them for FREE. To learn more about their projects for kids ages 2 to 16 AND to redeem this exclusive offer, click here to get your first month free today (just pay $4.95 for shipping)


Thanks for visiting! Come back and visit the Literary Cafe Podcast for October’s topic when we discuss thinking outside the box for book reports! They don’t have to be boring! And I’ve got some fun and great ideas to share with you that you will want to try!

Make sure you download our podcast at iTunes or subscribe to the Literary Cafe Podcast by clicking on the Android or RSS feed buttons below the recording on this page!

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Filling UP Mom with God’s Love Filling up mom with God’s love is from the Vintage Collection of Mommy Jammies Night and this wonderful presentation is by Judy Dudich who stopped blogging some time ago to focus on her family and homeschool. Her very popular blog was enjoyed by many. Enjoy this presentation.

We are promoting the movie Unseen Film.org a movie that discusses suicide. It is free with handouts and support materials. Visit the website for more information.

Homeschooling mothers are vastly different and unique from one another; and yet, most likely, every group of homeschooling mothers usually has some things in common, as well.

Think if five “common” adjectives you would use if we were to generalize the personality

of “the average homeschooling mother”:

  1. Creative?
  2. Innovative?
  3. Multi-tasking?
  4. Diligent?
  5. Devoted?

A common thread among homeschool mothers:

  • They are too HARD on themselves!

  • They spend time praying, reading, researching, learning, practicing, and instilling

gentleness in their children, and they, themselves ARE gentle with children


But not with themselves — is this you? The time has come for homeschooling mothers to hear a message of LOVE
a message that encourages you to be gentle with yourself.

What does God expect of Us?

  1. Does He expect us to know everything?
  2. Does He expect us to succeed in everything we do with our children?
  3. Does He expect our kids to score perfectly on the SAT’s?
  4. Does He expect us never to grow tired or weary or frustrated?
  5. Does He expect us never to fail?
  6. Does God expect us to try our best?
  7. Does He expect us to surrender ourselves to His holy will each day?
  8. Does He expect us to persevere in times of struggle?
  9. Does He expect us to pray?
  10. Does He expect us to LOVE?
  11. Does He expect us to forgive others AND ourselves?

Do whatever He tells you~

  • In Mary, the mother of Jesus, we find an example of complete trust, hope, persistence, and surrender in the Lord; as well as confidence in prayer.

(See John 2:5)

Do you trust God completely with your marriage, family life, and the education of your children? Or, have you fallen into the enemy’s trap of thinking YOU are responsible for the outcome of these things and therefore, feeling like a failure when it doesn’t turn out the way YOU have planned?

  • Mary is persistent in her plea to Jesus.

Much like the Canaanite woman (See Matthew 15:25) who continues to ask Jesus to help her, even after He has seemingly answered “in the negative”, so too, does Mary persist (after Jesus says, “Woman, how does your concern affect me, my hour has not yet come”) by instructing the servants (i.e. US) to ‘Do whatever He tells you”.

  • Our faith is tested in homeschooling and we must persist; like Mary, the Canaanite Woman, and the determined widow who makes her plea to the judge. (Luke 18)

They had complete trust and persisted until their need was met. Think for a moment of what Jesus tells the servants next. He tells them to “fill the jars with water”. These were jars used for ceremonial washing and each jug held about 20-30 gallons of liquid. The servants fill them to the BRIM.

We must do the same!

The work you do each day and the efforts with which you serve, care for, teach, and nurture your family is the water with which you are filling the jars!

  • God does not need us to perform His miracles/work. ~ Think of the Miracle at the Wedding in Cana Jesus did not need the water to be there in order to bring forth the wine. He could have brought the wine into existence by thinking/commanding it into existence.

~ Each and every day, God is inviting you to “take part” in the work of His hand and in the sacred work He is doing in the soul of your spouse, each of your children; and in your own soul. *God gives us an opportunity to take part in His Divine Plan. ~ We must remember that we are educating for eternity and within that realm

, here is a much larger picture at-hand than merely checking off items on a to-do list or measuring our tasks and accomplishments against those of our neighbors.

~ God accepts even the smallest of efforts if offered with a joyful and willing heart out of love for Him and gratitude for His blessings. * We Do Not Provide the Wine

~ Understanding that our good deeds can never “merit” our Salvation; which is a GIFT, freely given to us by Jesus Christ, we must then understand that we have nothing to give which can be offered to the Lord as though it were already the “wine” in the jars.

~ All of our tasks, duties, and good deeds as wives, mothers, and homeschooling instructors are “water”. But, that’s OK! We must learn to accept that fact (that we are not able to give anything “of worth” outside of Christ) and FILL THE JARS, with love. ~ NOT filling the jars, because we feel that “we are not good enough”, “not

capable enough”, or “not ‘whatever’ enough” is a sin against God’s mercy and charity. This is a tool that the enemy uses (tricking us into believing that we are not good enough) which, left unchecked, will lead us to despair.

“We are not called to be successful, only faithful” ~ Every homeschooling mother should heed the above wisdom of Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Thinking that we must meet a certain status quo, or achieve a certain level of success, is a self-induced and skewed mindset. The Lord wants us to love, and to love as He loves. That’s it! If you wake up every day and provide a safe and loving atmosphere in which your child has an opportunity to know, love, and serve the Lord, then you are a faithful

servant; even if that child rejects your teaching, fails in his/her school work, or takes a path in life that is opposed to your convictions and beliefs. (Call upon GOD in times like these for the Lord will not forsake the prayers and tears of a mother’s heart.)

Similarly, if you succeed in raising children who go on to ivy league schools and climb to the tip-top of the corporate ladder, making gobs of money and living lives of luxury and ease, but they have never been told the Good News, have never learned compassion, or the joy of serving others, or empathy for fellow man, or how to LOVE for the sake of God, then where is your faithfulness? (St Paul reminds us that “faith without works is dead” in James 2:26)

*Get Out of God’s Way

~ Learning to “just fill the jars” and step aside so that our Lord and King, Jesus Christ, can take what we have done in obedience and submission to the Father’s calling, and bless it, change it, and make it holy, is the true essence of “surrender”. ~ “Do your best and leave the rest”, “Let go and let God” and other familiar

sayings are true. The point is, God does not have a big checklist in heaven where He ticks off items according to “how well” we do on a given day. We must do our best to tend to our families, and love God with our whole mind, heart, and body, and then LET GOD BE GOD and do what’s needed to carry out His Divine Plan.

*SURRENDER OUR MISERY

~ The most difficult thing to let go of is our own misery. Everyone has it. The complaints. The whining. The fatigue. The self-pity. ~ Gratitude and joy go hand in hand and part of surrendering our misery is to look for the JOY in our lives and give thanks to God in all things.

~ The “water” with which we fill the jars is made up of: our love, our gentleness toward our children, our focus and diligence in our work, our joyful hearts, our charitable acts, and our faithfulness to the Word. This is the “water” Your Savior will transform into His heavenly wine! ~ You are doing a mighty and sacred work. Just by being there for your children, helping them to learn, and tending to their temporal and spiritual needs, you are filling the jars.

~ When you persevere in a marriage that is hurting, forgive the offenses, overlook the faults, and forge ahead, in prayer, trying to restore what satan and the world has damaged and torn, you are filling the jars. ~ When you can’t see past the mountain of laundry, don’t have a moment to spare for yourself, and are feeling like quitting more than giving, but, in spite of it all, you give anyway, you are filling the jars.

~ True giving starts when you feel you have nothing left to give but give anyway. * Each day is a new JAR. * Each moment brings an opportunity for you to fill it.

  • Nothing you do in sin or by fault can empty your jar. * One drop of water in the jar is enough for Jesus to make wine. (Meaning: When you are struggling and feel you can’t go on, but you DO go on, in surrender and by faith, you are filling the jar)

  • Your prayers for others can fill THEIR jars, as well as your own! Mothers! Pray for one another!

Strive to surrender in:

  1. Homeschooling
  2. Marriage
  3. Friendships
  4. Faith Life
  5. Family Life
  6. Schedules

JUST FILL THE JARS AND JESUS WILL MAKE THE WINE! “I Surrender”, written by Judy Dudich encourages you to make God the center of your daily life and to

reflect upon the Scripture Verse: Joshua 24:25, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”.

Judy Dudich was the owner of Homeschool Faith and Family Life Website – no longer available

She is the author of “A Thankful Woman’s Book of Blessings.”

TWITTER: @Benmakesten

FACEBOOK: Search “Judy Dudich” & “Homeschool Faith and Family Life”

Copyright © 2011 Judy Dudich


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Unseen Film

After finding his grandson Owen preparing to end his own life, Alexander takes him along on an errand. As the day unfolds, Owen learns new information about his grandfather’s past and unlocks the secret to facing his own future.

Click Here to Download the Film for Free and get Resources for Your Family


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