Making Biblical Family Life Practical: Recent Episodes
Hal Young and Melanie Young
You’ve made the commitment. You’ve caught the vision. You want to serve God in every aspect of your family life— but sometimes it’s hard to put feet on that vision! How do you get from principle to practice? What does it look like when you get there? How do you apply Scriptural truth in a 21st century family? This is “Making Biblical Family Life Practical,” with Hal and Melanie Young. With humorous banter, laser beam insight, and lots of practical advice, Hal and Melanie address real world issues, current events, marriage, parenting, raising sons, and family life. They’ll encourage and inspire you to walk out the Word of God in your family — and work toward reforming our culture, too. Monday nights at 9 Eastern. Don’t miss it!
Encore presentation from the MBFLP archives — a listener favorite worth hearing again. Sponsored by CTCMath.com
Boys and Noise: Managing a Houseful of Energetic Boys“Got boys? Then probably, you’ve got noise!” This week Hal and Melanie Young open up an email from a desperate homeschooling mom of four boys, all eight and under — two quiet, peace-loving firstborn parents completely overwhelmed by the volume, the wrestling, and the endless bickering. As parents of six boys themselves, Hal and Melanie have been exactly there, and they walk through what actually helps.
The heart of it: boys are noisy, active, and energetic by God’s design — and noise is not the same thing as sin. Your job isn’t to turn your boys into quiet little girls; it’s to train them to know when to let it rip and when to put a cork on it, to stop the meanness without crushing the energy, and to keep your home a safe harbor for everyone in it.
In this episode: Why “one boy plus one boy” equals way more than two boys’ worth of noise * Boys, power, and impact — the God-given wiring behind all that energy * Teaching self-control: inside/outside voices, “commando quiet,” and the Silent Ship game * Burning energy on purpose — outdoor time and mid-day movement (and why large-muscle activity actually helps boys learn) * The bickering: kids are born sinners, so media limits help but the heart is the real issue * “The wrath of man works not the righteousness of God” — why losing your temper never motivates, and how raising your voice differs from losing it * The “knock it off” rule: rough-and-tumble is fine, but stop means stop* — or you’re a bully * Home as a safe harbor: no name-calling, no sowing discord among brothers (Proverbs 6) * Why sibling competition is unfair across wide age gaps — and how to raise a “hero” big brother instead of a bully * The long payoff: the brotherly friendship you build now pays off hugely in adulthood
Chapters: 0:00 — Intro & welcome * 1:16 — The topic: boys and noise * 1:51 — A desperate mom’s email: four boys, eight and under * 3:23 — “We’ve been there” — Hal & Melanie’s six boys * 5:00 — Why boys are so loud (and why some are louder than others) * 7:17 — Power, impact, and God’s design for boys * 8:36 — Don’t turn your boys into girls — make it livable instead * 9:00 — Teaching quiet: ninja/commando, Silent Ship, inside voices * 12:43 — Burn the energy: outdoor time, mid-day PE, movement & learning * 14:51 — Resources for parents of boys * 16:19 — The bickering & nastiness: it’s a heart issue * 17:41 — Ground rules: the wrath of man, and voice vs. losing it * 19:02 — The “knock it off” rule * 20:11 — Home as a safe harbor: names, discord, Proverbs 6 * 21:47 — Competition, fairness, and raising a hero big brother * 24:10 — The long payoff: brotherhood into adulthood * 27:20 — Encouragement: it takes consistency, and it will* get better
A few lines worth remembering:
“Being noisy is not necessarily a sin. It’s not necessarily something you need to punish — but it is something that needs training.”
“The wrath of man works not the righteousness of God. When I yell, when I lose it, it does not motivate them one bit.”
“Whatever’s out there in the world, when you come home you should be completely safe.”
About the hosts: Hal and Melanie Young are the parents of six boys (and more) and the authors and speakers behind Raising Real Men. Find more of their work at halandmelanie.com.
More on raising boys from the show:* Boy-Friendly Homeschooling: How to Help Boys Thrive in Learning * Boys and Books: How to Help Boys Love Reading * Boy Question Free-for-All: Raising Sons Biblically
Noise can be fun. Shop Whismsical and Adventure Gear @ RaisingRealMen.comThe post Boys and Noise: Managing a Houseful of Energetic Boys appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Happily Married While Homeschooling?Happily Married and Homeschooling, podcast episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical with Hal & Melanie Young.
Everyone tells you that homeschooling isn’t an educational choice, but a lifestyle! Should we be surprised if we discover that homeschooling has an impact on our marriage? It’s true, and if we’re not watchful, our marriage could be a weak spot in our family’s new endeavor. Hal and Melanie have been married for 27 years and homeschooling for 20, and this week they share some ideas of stumbling blocks to avoid and how you can make both your homeschool and your relationship strong!
This episode sponsored by CTC Math.Are you looking for a new Math Curriculum?
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Real. Authentic. Practical.We’re Hal and Melanie Young. We’re not just authors and speakers, but we’re the parents of six sons (in a row!) and two daughters. The experience of raising this van-full has proved two things – you need God’s wisdom to raise a family, and you need help to make it practical!
That’s our goal and message—start with Biblical foundations, then share how to put principles into practice.
The reality is that God gave each family a mix of parents, children, and personalities, in a particular time and circumstance. They’re all unique, so every family’s “practical” may be a little different, and still be totally Biblical. That’s why we focus on principles instead of checklists. Instead of more law, we need more grace!
And it’s grace that drives us to Jesus Christ, the one who ultimately makes our family what it ought to be. We want to help families find practical ideas, but the risen Savior as well.
The post How to Be Happily Married While Homeschooling appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
On the eve of the mid-term elections, how do we talk about the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity? How can we help keep the next generation from trading our hard-won freedom for supposed security or momentary gain? Do we appreciate the importance of even these small local races that clutter up the bottom of the ballot? Join us as we share some of the things we’ve done in our family!
Thank you to our sponsor, CTCMath.com
The post MBFLP – Teaching Kids About Liberty and Government (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
It’s almost summer and water safety is a big concern. Peter walked on water when Jesus called him (Matthew 14) but most of us don’t have that direct command! We share some thoughts about how we train our kids to be safe around the lake, pool, or beach – even if you can’t afford a country-club swim instructor. It’s important!
When You Can’t Walk on Water: Practical Water Safety for Homeschool FamiliesPodcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical with Hal & Melanie Young
Episode Title: When You Can’t Walk on Water: Practical Water Safety for Homeschool Families
Hosts: Hal Young and Melanie Young
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
Water safety isn’t just a summer concern—it’s a life skill every family should prioritize. In this practical and encouraging episode, Hal and Melanie Young discuss how parents can teach children to enjoy the water safely while building confidence, responsibility, and common sense.
Using the biblical account of Peter walking on water as a starting point, they remind listeners that while faith is essential, God also calls us to use wisdom. Whether your family spends time at the beach, lake, river, water park, or neighborhood pool, this episode offers practical guidance for helping children become safe and capable around water.
Why Water Safety MattersMany families assume accidents happen only to inexperienced children, but water emergencies can affect anyone. Hal and Melanie share stories of adults who nearly drowned because they never learned basic swimming skills and discuss why swimming should be viewed as an essential life skill, not just a recreational activity.
Key Takeaway:Every family member should learn how to swim, float, and remain calm in the water.
Teaching Children to Swim SafelyThe Young family emphasizes introducing children to water gradually and positively. They encourage parents to:
- Make early water experiences enjoyable.
- Use properly fitted life jackets.
- Teach floating before advanced swimming techniques.
- Focus on confidence and comfort in the water.
- Respect each child’s readiness level.
They also note that supportive instruction can make a significant difference in how children learn and overcome fear.
The Young Family Swim TestBefore children are allowed around water without a life jacket, the Young family requires them to pass a swim test designed around real-life safety situations. Their standards include:
Water Safety Requirements* Float face-down for 30 seconds. * Float on their back for 10 minutes. * Tread water for 10 minutes. * Swim a substantial distance without assistance.
The goal isn’t competitive swimming—it’s ensuring a child can stay safe if they unexpectedly fall into the water.
Why Life Jackets Are Non-NegotiableOne family rule remains consistent regardless of swimming ability:
Anyone in a boat wears a life jacket.
Even strong swimmers can become injured, exhausted, disoriented, or unconscious after an accident. Wearing a life jacket provides a critical layer of protection.
Balancing Adventure and SafetyAs children become stronger swimmers, parents often face a new challenge: managing their growing sense of adventure.
The Young family encourages activities such as:
- Kayaking
- Exploring nearby islands
- Swimming longer distances
- Building and using small boats
However, every adventure includes planning, preparation, and safety measures such as:
- Chase boats
- Emergency recovery practice
- Weather awareness
- Life jackets
- Clear communication plans
Their philosophy is simple: encourage courage without ignoring prudence.
Understanding Dry DrowningOne of the most important topics discussed is the danger of delayed water-related breathing problems, often referred to as “dry drowning” or secondary drowning.
Parents should watch for symptoms such as:
- Unusual fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Anxiety
- Chest discomfort
- Persistent coughing after a water incident
These symptoms may appear after a child has inhaled water and should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
What Real Drowning Looks LikeMany people expect drowning to look dramatic, but the reality is often very different.
According to the discussion, drowning is frequently:
- Silent
- Quick
- Difficult to recognize
A person who is actively drowning often cannot:
- Call for help
- Wave their arms
- Signal distress
Instead, they may appear motionless, with their mouth barely above the water while instinctively trying to breathe. Parents and caregivers should learn these warning signs so they can respond quickly.
Practical Water Safety Rules for FamiliesConsider implementing these simple family guidelines:
- Wear life jackets until swimming proficiency is proven.
- Never swim alone.
- Establish clear water boundaries.
- Match activities to each child’s ability level.
- Teach floating and treading water early.
- Monitor weather conditions.
- Require life jackets in boats.
- Learn the signs of drowning and dry drowning.
- Encourage adventure with appropriate safeguards.
- Make swimming a family life skill.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhy should children learn to swim?Swimming is a life skill that can help prevent drowning and increase confidence around water. It prepares children for situations they may encounter throughout life.
How can I teach water safety if I don’t swim?Seek help from community pools, churches, friends, local instructors, or YMCA programs. Learning together as a family can be a valuable experience.
Are life jackets necessary for strong swimmers?Yes. Accidents can happen to even experienced swimmers, especially when boating or participating in water sports.
What is the most important water safety skill?Learning to stay calm, float, and tread water can save lives in emergency situations.
Final ThoughtsWater can provide some of a family’s most memorable adventures, but those experiences should always be paired with wisdom and preparation. By teaching children to respect the water, develop strong swimming skills, and practice safe habits, parents can help their families enjoy the fun while minimizing unnecessary risks.
As Hal and Melanie remind listeners, the goal isn’t to avoid adventure—it’s to equip children to pursue it safely and responsibly.
The post When You Can’t Walk on Water: Practical Water Safety for Homeschool Families appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Boy Question Free-for-All | Making Biblical Family Life PracticalPodcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical
Hosts: Hal Young and Melanie Young
Network: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network
Sponsor: CTCMath.com
Raising boys comes with big questions — from roughhousing and sibling rivalry to faith, purity, scholarships, and preparing sons for adulthood. In this classic Q&A episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Hal and Melanie Young tackle real questions from homeschool parents about raising sons with wisdom, courage, gentleness, and biblical purpose.
The conversation covers everything from encouraging individuality in boys to teaching respect for sisters, handling rough-and-tumble play without allowing bullying, helping boys grow spiritually, and guiding teens toward future careers and college decisions. Parents will appreciate the practical, grace-filled advice and the reminder that authentic relationships matter more than perfection.
Key Topics Covered* Encouraging each child’s unique gifts and personality * Preventing teasing and sibling disrespect * Teaching boys to protect rather than bully * Managing roughhousing in healthy ways * Biblical conversations about purity and modesty * Helping boys develop genuine faith * Encouraging boys to pray confidently * Scholarship and college planning advice * Guiding sons toward adulthood and vocation * Building strong parent-child relationships
Memorable Takeaways
“The fact that you are stronger than your sister does not mean that you are better. It means you have a responsibility to use that strength to serve, to protect, and to bless.”
“Young kids are born with hypocrisy meters.”
“Make sure you have a great relationship with your son and with your God.”
Resources Mentioned* Raising Real Men Boot Camp for Moms of Preteen Boys * Raising Real Men Purity Resources * Raising Real Men Store
Find more biblical parenting encouragement from Hal Young and Melanie Young at:
Raising Real Men
Listen to More Episodes Rules and Relationship – MBFLP 289 * Kids and Chores – MBFLP 286 * Motivating Boys to Write – MBFLP 250 * Dealing with Conflict with Tweens and Teens * Homeschooling with Unsupportive Family – MBFLP 276 * Discipline Without Breaking Their Spirit – MBFLP 202 * Teen Boys Who Hate School? Causes & Fixes * Raising Siblings Without Rivalry*
The post Boy Question Free-for-All | Making Biblical Family Life Practical appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Summer Movies and Christian DiscernmentThe summer movie season is fast approaching and lots of our kids are will be lining up at the Multiplex for one opening night after another. How do you choose appropriate movies for your family, or give reasonable guidance to your youngsters, or is there a framework for a Christian to really engage the cinema at all? Join us for a crash course in how we grapple with the silver screen!
Are Summer Movies Helping or Hurting Your Family’s Values?Summer movie season is exciting for families. Popcorn, superhero films, animated adventures, and trips to the theater can create memorable moments together. But Christian parents today face a challenge previous generations didn’t experience quite as intensely: modern entertainment often carries messages that conflict with biblical truth.
In this episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Hal and Melanie Young discuss how Christian families can approach movies with wisdom, discernment, and intentional conversations.
Rather than simply asking, “Is this movie appropriate?” they encourage parents to ask a deeper question:
“What message is this movie teaching my children?”
Why Movie Ratings Alone Aren’t EnoughThe Youngs point out that movie ratings often fail to reflect a biblical worldview. Violence, sexuality, language, and moral themes are not weighed from a Christian perspective.
They explain that:
- A “family-friendly” movie may still promote anti-biblical ideas
- Some PG movies today resemble older PG-13 films
- Even G-rated content can contain problematic worldviews
- Ratings cannot replace parental discernment
Instead of relying only on the MPAA rating system, parents are encouraged to actively evaluate content and themes for themselves.
Recommended Christian Movie Review ResourcesHal and Melanie recommend several tools parents can use before choosing films for their children.
-
Plugged InCreated by Focus on the Family, this site breaks down films by categories such as:
-
Violence
- Sexual content
- Language
- Spiritual themes
- Positive and negative messages
The Youngs appreciate that it helps parents make decisions based on their own family convictions rather than a generic rating system.
- IMDb (Internet Movie Database)While not a Christian site, IMDb provides plot summaries, parent discussions, and viewer comments that can help parents research older films or unfamiliar titles before watching them.
The Most Important Question: What Is the Movie Teaching?One of the strongest themes in this episode is that parents should look beyond surface-level content and analyze the worldview being presented.
Hal explains that even movies without explicit content can promote ideas that conflict with Scripture. Meanwhile, some stories may contain difficult themes while ultimately pointing viewers toward truth, justice, or redemption.
The Youngs encourage parents to ask questions like:
- What is the moral of this story?
- Who does the movie want us to sympathize with?
- Is sin glorified or exposed as destructive?
- Does the story align with biblical truth?
- How does the movie try to shape the viewer’s thinking?
These conversations help children learn how to think critically rather than passively consuming entertainment.
Why Watching Movies Together MattersHal and Melanie strongly recommend parents watch questionable or borderline films with older children instead of simply banning everything.
Watching together allows parents to:
- Pause and discuss troubling scenes
- Explain manipulative storytelling techniques
- Contrast media messages with Scripture
- Teach biblical worldview analysis in real time
The goal is not merely protection — it is discipleship.
As children mature, parents should gradually move from total shielding to guided discernment training.
Teaching Kids to Analyze MediaThe Youngs suggest turning movie nights into opportunities for thoughtful discussion.
Instead of asking only, “Did you like it?” try questions such as:
- What was the theme of the movie?
- What message was the filmmaker trying to communicate?
- Was good presented as good?
- Was evil treated seriously or made attractive?
- Did the story honor truth?
They use examples like:
- Amazing Grace — showing faith integrated into public life
- The Incredibles — exploring identity and responsibility
- The Lorax — which they felt carried a strong ideological message beneath excellent production quality
Their emphasis is clear: excellent filmmaking does not automatically mean a movie carries a good message.
Discernment Is Bigger Than MoviesThis episode ultimately frames media discernment as a life skill.
Hal and Melanie explain that teaching children to evaluate movies critically prepares them to navigate:
- Books
- Music
- Social media
- Advertising
- Political messaging
- Cultural trends
When children learn to compare messages against Scripture, they become less vulnerable to manipulation and more equipped to think biblically as adults.
Key Takeaways from This Episode Movie ratings are not a substitute for biblical discernment * Parents should evaluate both content and* worldview * Watching movies together creates discipleship opportunities * Teaching children to analyze media prepares them for adulthood * Excellent entertainment can still communicate harmful ideas * Christian families should intentionally discuss themes and messages
Resources Mentioned in This Episode* Plugged In Movie Reviews * IMDb Movie Database * Raising Real Men
Listen to More Episodes from Making Biblical Family Life PracticalHal and Melanie Young encourage Christian families with practical discussions about parenting, homeschooling, discipleship, media discernment, and biblical family life. Their ministry focuses on helping parents intentionally raise children who love God and think critically about the culture around them.
This episode is sponsored by CTCMath.com
The post Summer Movies and Christian Discernment: Teaching Kids to Watch Media Through a Biblical Lens appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Cheap Family Travel Tips for Large Families (Without Breaking the Budget)Looking for affordable family travel ideas that actually work for large families? Whether you’re planning a homeschool field trip, ministry travel, a family vacation, or traveling for work, there are ways to travel well on a budget. In this episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Hal and Melanie Young share practical strategies for saving money on lodging, food, transportation, and more while creating unforgettable family memories.
This episode is sponsored by CTCMath.com
Cheap Family Travel for Large Families: Practical Tips That WorkTraveling with a large family can feel overwhelming financially, but it doesn’t have to be. Hal and Melanie Young explain how thoughtful planning, creative lodging options, and flexible travel strategies helped their family travel across the country affordably for years.
Whether you homeschool, travel for ministry, or simply want to make memories together, these family travel tips can help you travel more for less.
Why Family Travel MattersFamily travel is more than vacations. It can become:
- A hands-on homeschool education
- A ministry opportunity
- Time for stronger family connection
- Exposure to history, geography, and culture
- A way to serve together
The Young family often combined business trips, speaking events, and ministry opportunities with educational family adventures.
Budget Lodging Ideas for Families1. Camping Saves Money and Creates MemoriesCamping can dramatically reduce travel costs while giving families unique experiences they would never have in a hotel.
The Young family shared stories of:
- Camping under the redwoods in California
- Staying near Civil War battlefields
- Seeing the Milky Way across the Wyoming sky
- Traveling across the western United States with inexpensive tents
Cheap Camping Gear Tips* Shop Craigslist * Check yard sales * Look for clearance deals * Borrow from friends * Use military surplus stores
They also recommend modern air mattresses for parents who no longer enjoy sleeping directly on the ground.
- Christian Hospitality NetworksOne of the biggest money-saving travel tips shared in this episode is using Christian hospitality networks.
Recommended Hospitality Networks* Mennonite Your Way * A Candle in the Window * ServantCare (for ministry families)
These networks connect traveling Christian families with hosts who offer guest rooms, RV parking, or sleeping space at little or no cost.
Benefits include:
- Saving money on hotels
- Meeting other homeschool families
- Building lifelong friendships
-
Giving children exposure to believers from different regions
-
Priceline Hotel HacksWhen hotels are necessary, the Young family recommends:
-
Priceline Express Deals
- Priceline bidding system
- Choosing 2.5-star hotels or higher
They explain how anonymous hotel deals often provide major discounts while still offering quality accommodations.
Affordable Transportation Tips for FamiliesDriving vs. FlyingFor many large families, driving can be significantly cheaper than flying.
Benefits include:
- Bringing more luggage
- Traveling together
- Turning the trip into part of the adventure
- Greater flexibility
The Young family often used work or ministry travel as opportunities for educational road trips.
Best Cheap Flight Search ToolsKayakThe episode recommends Kayak because it:
- Shows fare trends over time
- Helps compare nearby airports
- Allows flexible date searches
- Identifies cheaper travel days
Southwest AirlinesThey especially recommend Southwest Airlines for families because:
- Checked bags are free
- Carry-ons are free
- Snacks and drinks are included
- Customer service is family-friendly
How to Save Money on GasUse GasBuddyThe Young family recommends GasBuddy to:
- Compare gas prices by state
- Find the cheapest stations
- Plan fuel stops
- Estimate trip fuel costs
They explain how buying gas strategically across state lines can save families significant money during long road trips.
Family Road Trip Survival TipsThe Mandatory Bathroom Stop RuleOne of the funniest and most practical tips from the episode is the “mandatory bathroom stop.”
Their rule:
- Every person uses the restroom at every stop
- Combine bathroom, food, and fuel breaks
- Keep stops short and efficient
This prevents constant emergency stops later down the road.
Homeschool Families and TravelFor homeschoolers, travel becomes education in motion.
The Young family describes:
- Touring Boston historical sites
- Visiting battlefields
- Learning geography firsthand
- Meeting Christian families around the country
Travel transforms history, science, culture, and faith into lived experiences children never forget.
Final Thoughts: Travel Doesn’t Have to Be ExpensiveCheap family travel is possible with:
- Flexible lodging
- Smart planning
- Creative thinking
- Hospitality networks
- Budget travel tools
Most importantly, intentional travel creates memories and discipleship opportunities that can shape your family for years to come.
Listen to More Homeschool Family EncouragementExplore more episodes from Making Biblical Family Life Practical on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Visit Hal & Melanie at RaisingRealMen.com
Perfect for vacations:Character-Building Audiobook LibraryInvest in a library of books that will shape the character of your family. These are the books that our adult children said were influential in their lives. Give them to your own children and learn the power of good literature!
The post Cheap Family Travel Tips for Large Families (Without Breaking the Budget) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Boys and Books: How to Help Boys Love Reading (and What They’ll Actually Read)Podcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical
Hosts: Hal & Melanie Young
Network: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network
Struggling to get your son to read? You’re not alone—and you’re not without options.
In this episode, Hal and Melanie Young tackle a question many homeschool parents are asking:
How do you help boys enjoy reading—and choose books that actually build character?
From practical strategies to specific book recommendations, this conversation explores how to move boys from reluctant readers to engaged learners—without lowering standards or sacrificing values.
Some educators and librarians so are desperate to get boys to read something, anything, that they’ll turn a blind eye to any but the most objectionable material. “Well, at least they’re reading,” they’ll say. Yet deep down, we all know that the junky material we use to get them to read is likely to give them a taste for … more junk. This week, we’ll talk about a few reasons your son may not like to read much now, and give you some real suggestions for solid, wholesome, challenging, and educational books that your son will love.
New Here? Start with These Episodes + Rules and Relationship – MBFLP 289 + Kids and Chores – MBFLP 286 + Motivating Boys to Write – MBFLP 250 + Dealing with Conflict with Tweens and Teens + Homeschooling with Unsupportive Family – MBFLP 276 + Discipline Without Breaking Their Spirit – MBFLP 202 + Teen Boys Who Hate School? Causes & Fixes + Raising Siblings Without Rivalry*
What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why what boys read matters just as much as that* they read * The difference between: + Difficulty with reading + Lack of interest in reading * How to identify and support struggling readers (including dyslexia and learning gaps) * Why audiobooks can be a powerful bridge to strong reading skills * How media (games, TV, streaming) impacts a boy’s desire to read * The types of books boys are naturally drawn to—and why
Key Takeaways for Parents1. Model What You Want to SeeBoys are far more likely to value reading when they see it modeled at home—especially by dads.
- Don’t Settle for “Anything Is Fine”Reading junk just to get them reading isn’t the goal.
Just like nutrition matters for the body, quality literature matters for the mind and character.
-
Use Audiobooks StrategicallyAudiobooks:
-
Build comprehension before fluency
- Expose kids to rich vocabulary and storytelling
-
Help reluctant readers stay engaged
-
Feed Their InterestsBoys often gravitate toward:
-
Action and adventure
- Hero-driven stories
- Mysteries (justice-driven plots)
- Nonfiction (especially hands-on or mechanical topics)
Tip: If your son has a hobby, get books about it.
-
Limit Screens to Increase ReadingHigh-stimulation activities (video games, streaming) can:
-
Reduce attention span
- Lower interest in reading
-
Create dependency on constant stimulation
-
Fill Their World with StoryEven if they aren’t reading independently yet:
-
Read aloud together
- Listen to audiobooks
- Discuss stories as a family
Recommended Books & ResourcesCharacter-Building Favorites Hero Tales from American History (Theodore Roosevelt) * Pollyanna * A Cry from Egypt* by Hope Auer
Series Boys Love* Sugar Creek Gang (Paul Hutchins – original versions recommended) * Landmark History Series
Humor & Classics (Older Readers) P.G. Wodehouse (with discretion/editing) * James Herriot (All Creatures Great and Small*)
Nonfiction Ideas* Military history * Mechanics and how-to manuals * Exploration and adventure * Hands-on skill guides
Supporting Struggling ReadersIf your child struggles with reading:
- Address skill gaps early
- Consider targeted programs (like brain integration or phonics-based support)
- Remember: reading ability ≠ intelligence
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Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do I get my son interested in reading?Start by connecting reading to his interests—action, adventure, or hands-on topics—and reduce screen distractions.
What if my child hates reading?Determine whether it’s a skill issue or an interest issue. Use audiobooks and engaging topics to bridge the gap.
Are audiobooks as good as reading?Yes—especially for building comprehension, vocabulary, and a love of story while skills catch up.
What kinds of books do boys typically enjoy?Boys often prefer:
- Adventure stories
- Mysteries
- Nonfiction (especially mechanical or historical topics)
Final EncouragementHelping boys love reading isn’t about forcing it—it’s about:
- Guiding wisely
- Choosing well
- And building a home where stories matter
When you do that, reading becomes less of a battle… and more of a doorway.
Some Resources You Might Find Helpful
- “Character-Building Books for Boys” – from our Raising Real Men blog
- Beloved Books – a great source of audiobooks, including The Sugar Creek Gang
- Raising Real Men Store – some neat books, both print and audio, your whole family will enjoy!
The post Boys and Books: How to Help Boys Love Reading appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Boy-Friendly HomeschoolingIn this episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Raising Real Men founders Hal and Melanie Young share practical, encouraging strategies for homeschooling boys in a way that works with their design—not against it.
If you’ve ever wondered why your son struggles to sit still, resist worksheets, or stay focused… this conversation will feel like a breath of fresh air.
We had six boys, one after another, and thought our family’s sort of crazy was just normal life. Then people who had girls first started asking, “How in the world do you manage to homeschool all those boys?” The fact is, they are very different from their sisters – and from the moms who teach them both. This episode, we look at some basic principles we’ve learned about creating a homeschool that works with boys as they are rather than struggling to fit them into a less boyish mold.
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
New Here? Start with These Episodes + Rules and Relationship – MBFLP 289 + Kids and Chores – MBFLP 286 + Motivating Boys to Write – MBFLP 250 + Dealing with Conflict with Tweens and Teens + Homeschooling with Unsupportive Family – MBFLP 276 + Discipline Without Breaking Their Spirit – MBFLP 202 + Teen Boys Who Hate School? Causes & Fixes + Raising Siblings Without Rivalry*
What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why boys and girls learn differently—and why that matters * How to create a boy-friendly learning environment * The importance of movement, competition, and hands-on learning * What to do when your son struggles with reading, writing, or focus * How to navigate middle school “brain remodeling” years * Why high school is often when boys finally thrive academically * The powerful role of discipleship over academics*
Key Takeaways for Homeschooling Boys1. Boys Learn Best Through MovementBoys often need physical activity to stay engaged. Sitting still too long can actually prevent learning.
Try:
- Short movement breaks (jumping, running, trampoline)
- Standing desks or whiteboards
-
Learning while walking or doing hands-on activities
-
The Environment MattersA typical “cozy classroom” setup may not work.
Boys often prefer:
- Bright lighting
- Cooler temperatures
-
Active, engaging interaction
-
Delay Writing, Emphasize LearningFine motor skills develop later in boys.
Instead of pushing worksheets early:
- Focus on reading, listening, and discussion
- Use hands-on learning and storytelling
-
Reduce frustration by meeting developmental readiness
-
Competition Can Be a Tool (Not a Problem)Healthy competition motivates many boys.
Ideas:
- Beat-the-clock challenges
- Competing against their own previous scores
-
Simple rewards for improvement
-
Middle School Is a Transition—Not FailureDuring puberty, boys experience brain restructuring that impacts learning.
Expect:
- Decreased focus
- Slower progress
- Need for more support
Respond with:
- Encouragement (not comparison)
- Extra guidance
-
Patience
-
High School Is Often the BreakthroughMany boys who struggle earlier:
Become independent learners
Excel academically
Develop deeper thinking skills
Don’t panic in the earlier years—growth is coming.
- Discipleship Is the Real GoalHomeschooling isn’t just about academics.
It’s about:
- Walking through life together
- Modeling faith and character
- Building strong relationships
“Education” in Scripture is far more about discipleship than curriculum.
Practical Tips You Can Use Today* Let your son move while learning (yes—even upside down on the couch ) * Read aloud often—don’t rely only on independent work * Add real-life skills (cooking, building, chores) * Adjust expectations for writing and fine motor tasks * Focus on connection over performance
Resources Mentioned Raising Real Men* book * Homeschool support for struggling learners * Dyslexia resources and encouragement * Newsletter and freebies at Raising Real Men
Sponsor SpotlightLooking for a flexible, engaging math program?
Check out CTCMath—a comprehensive K–12 curriculum with step-by-step video lessons that help kids truly understand math concepts.
Quick AnswersHow should boys be taught differently in homeschooling?
Boys often learn best through movement, hands-on activities, and active engagement rather than passive instruction.
Why do boys struggle with writing early on?
Their fine motor skills typically develop later than girls, making early writing tasks frustrating.
Is it normal for boys to fall behind in middle school?
Yes. Many experience a developmental phase that temporarily impacts focus and performance.
When do boys typically excel academically?
Often in high school, when abstract thinking and maturity catch up.
Connect & SubscribeThis podcast is part of the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network.
Love the show?
- Leave a review
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- Subscribe for more practical, faith-based family insights
RESOURCES YOU MIGHT APPRECIATE
| Our hour-long workshop,“Ballistic Homeschooling” —Our book, Raising Real Men |
The post Boy-Friendly Homeschooling: How to Help Boys Thrive in Learning appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
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Electronics and Temptation: Christian Parenting in a Digital WorldTechnology is part of everyday life—but that doesn’t mean families should approach it casually.
In this episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical, Hal and Melanie Young discuss how Christian families can think wisely about electronics, internet access, gaming, and digital temptation. From internet safety and screen habits to accountability and discernment, this conversation helps parents navigate technology with both wisdom and grace.
If you’ve ever wondered how to set healthy boundaries around devices while preparing your children for the real world, this episode offers practical perspective and biblical encouragement.
Making Biblical Family Life Practical is part of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, where homeschool families find trusted encouragement, practical help, and real-life wisdom for every stage of family life. From parenting and discipleship to homeschooling, high school, and healthy home rhythms, UHPN helps families learn, grow, and stay encouraged.
This episode kindly sponsored by CTCMath.com
This episode is a replay of an earlier episode, but the content has proven more valuable with time and we’re happy to share it again.
In This EpisodeIn this conversation, Hal and Melanie Young discuss:
- how technology affects family life
- practical internet safety for kids and teens
- wise boundaries for devices and screen time
- gaming, temptation, and digital accountability
- helping teens develop discernment online
- how Christian parents can guide—not just restrict—technology use
This episode is especially helpful for families raising older children and teens in a digital world.
Why Christian Families Need a Thoughtful Approach to TechnologyTechnology itself is not the enemy—but unexamined technology use can shape habits, priorities, and values in powerful ways. Christian parents need more than fear or frustration. They need a thoughtful, biblical framework for helping their children use technology wisely, safely, and responsibly.
This episode helps parents think beyond simple rules and move toward intentional discipleship in the digital age.
More Episodes on Parenting, Technology, and Homeschool Family LifeLooking for more encouragement on parenting, screen time, technology boundaries, and raising teens in today’s world? Explore more episodes across the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network for practical help, biblical encouragement, and real-life homeschool family support.
- Handling Screen Time for Teens, Interview with Dr Melanie Wilson
- MBFLP 112 – Safety on Your New Devices
- Homeschooling Wisdom for Screen Time
- How to Manage Teen Screen Time
Frequently Asked QuestionsHow should Christian parents handle technology?
Christian parents can approach technology with wisdom by setting clear boundaries, teaching discernment, and helping children use devices responsibly.
How do you set screen time boundaries for teens?
Healthy screen time boundaries often include accountability, time limits, family expectations, and ongoing conversations about wise use.
What are healthy technology rules for homeschool families?
Many homeschool families create rules around device access, internet safety, gaming, and when screens are appropriate during the day.
How can parents help kids use the internet wisely?
Parents can help by teaching digital discernment, modeling healthy habits, using accountability tools, and keeping communication open.
Looking for More Encouragement for Parenting and Homeschool Life?Explore more family-focused episodes across the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network for practical help, biblical encouragement, and support for every season of homeschooling and family life.
If this episode encouraged you, you may also enjoy:
- parenting episodes from Making Biblical Family Life Practical
- practical encouragement from The Homeschool Sanity Show
- more family-focused homeschool resources across the network
The post Electronics and Temptation: Christian Parenting in a Digital World appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
Kids need discipline, and in fact, God tells us that a child who doesn’t receive discipline has been rejected by his parents! (Hebrews 12) Discipline, after all, is discipleship – it’s meant to teach, not just punish. But there are good and very bad ideas for administering the needed correction to our kids. How can you discipline your child without breaking their spirit? That’s what we’re talking about this episode.Making Biblical Family Life PracticalEpisode 202: Discipline Without Breaking the SpiritLISTENER NOTE: This is a replay episode. Dates and times mentioned for Hal and Melanie’s speaking schedule have been updated in the show notes below to reflect their current 2026 tour dates.
Episode Sponsors* CTCMath.com – Comprehensive online math curriculum * RaisingRealMen.com – Resources for raising boys and building strong families
In This EpisodeJoin Hal and Melanie Young as they tackle one of the most frequently asked questions from parents: “How can I discipline my child without breaking their spirit?”
This thoughtful discussion explores:
Understanding “Breaking the Spirit”
- The difference between healthy discipline and creating fear or anger
- Biblical foundations: 1 John 4:18 and Ephesians 6:4
- The importance of maintaining trust in the parent-child relationship
Biblical Principles for Discipline
- Hebrews 12:7-11 – God’s model for discipline
- How our discipline should point children toward the gospel
- The difference between God’s perfect discipline and our human limitations
- Applying Micah 6:8: “Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God”
Practical Discipline Guidelines
- The role of corporal punishment (with clear biblical limits)
- When to phase out physical discipline (watching for signs in preteens)
- Alternative discipline methods:
- Loss of privileges
- Restitution
- Verbal rebuke
- Natural consequences
- Disciplining privately to preserve dignity
- The importance of parental humility and self-control
The Four-Step Restoration Process (from Lou Priolo’s “The Heart of Anger”)
- What did you do?
- Was that wrong?
- What should you have done?
- Do you want to be forgiven?
Key Warnings
- Avoiding extreme parenting philosophies that lack biblical balance
- Not disciplining in anger (James 1:20)
- Understanding developmental stages (infants vs. older children)
- The danger of degrading or humiliating children
- Balancing consistency with mercy
The Gospel Connection
- How discipline teaches children about God’s character
- The importance of forgiveness and restoration
- Modeling God’s grace while maintaining boundaries
- Understanding that consequences may remain even after forgiveness
Resources Mentioned* The Heart of Anger by Lou Priolo (available at RaisingRealMen.com) * Audiobooks for family road trips (available at RaisingRealMen.com)
Updated 2026 Speaking ScheduleSpring/Summer 2026:
- April 21-22 – Wasilla, AK – IDEA Curriculum Fair
- April 23-24 – Soldotna, AK – IDEA Curriculum Fair
- April 27-28 – Fairbanks, AK – IDEA Curriculum Fair
- May 7-9 – Pigeon Forge, TN – Teach Them Diligently
- May 14-16 – Branson, MO – Teach Them Diligently
- May 21-23 – Orlando, FL – Florida Homeschool Convention (FPEA)
- June 4-6 – Richmond, VA – Virginia Homeschool Convention (HEAV)
- July 17-18 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Home Education Convention (AFHE)
Watch for more announcements soon!
For the most current speaking schedule or to invite Hal and Melanie to your event, visit HalAndMelanie.com
Connect with Hal and Melanie* Website: HalAndMelanie.com * Shop & Resources: RaisingRealMen.com * Facebook: Facebook.com/HalAndMelanie * Facebook: Facebook.com/RaisingRealMen
Subscribe & ShareIf you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to Making Biblical Family Life Practical and share it with other parents who might benefit from this biblical approach to discipline.
This program is a production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network
The post Discipline Without Breaking Your Child’s Spirit – MBFLP 202 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.
Try CTCMath →
“Mom, I think I’m an atheist.” That was the chilling announcement from the back of the van, from our nine-year-old child. Spiritual doubts may arise at any time, especially with young teens, and this episode we’re talking about some practical things you can do to help shepherd your young person through this stormy time.
Spiritual Doubt and Your Kidssponsored by CTCMath.com
Apologetics Museums We EnjoyedThese are remarkable places to visit, but even if you can’t travel there, they have great websites with lots of information and more resources to offer.
Ark Encounter – Williamstown, Ky. could find practical solutions with the existing technology of his time. It answers boatloads of objections with reasonable explanations – questions like how to house so many animals, how to handle feeding, watering, and waste removal, what to do about lighting and ventilation, and much more. Really impressive and thought-provoking. Said to be the largest freestanding wooden structure in the world!
Creation Museum – Petersburg, Ky.
We first visited the Creation Museum only a few weeks after a family trip to Washington, D.C. We were totally amazed at the professional quality of the exhibits and facility, which were much better maintained than the famous museums of the Smithsonian. Every subsequent visit we’ve found new exhibits and presentations. This is a first class museum, in addition to presenting an evidence-rich argument for creation of the world by an intelligent Craftsman. Ken Ham is the public spokesman, but the museum itself is the work of a huge team of geologists, biologists, archaeologists, historians, theologians, and more. Well worth a journey!
Museum of the Bible – Washington, D.C.
This collection traces the development of the written Bible from the earliest records through the ongoing translation missions of modern times. There are truly remarkable items on display – a Latin Bible signed as a gift by Martin Luther, a beautiful illuminated prayer book made for the Emperor Charles V, pages from the Gutenberg Bible, and a copy of the first Bible printed in America – in the language of the Wampanoag Indians! Exhibits talk of the influence of the Bible on civil rights and social justice, the impact on language and fine art, and more.
Apologetics Books We RecommendMore Than A Carpenter – Josh McDowell
A classic look at who Jesus was, and is, and why that matters.
Evidence That Demands a Verdict – Josh McDowell
A fantastic work that looks at hundreds of questions about Biblical reliability, with tons of references and yes, evidence. A good one to have on hand for those “Wait, what about …” discussions.
The Case for Christ – Lee Strobel
An investigative journalist recounts his search into the Bible’s claims about Jesus’ life, work, and person. A dramatic and personal story of a skeptic’s journey into faith.
Mere Christianity – C. S.Lewis
A conversational but philosophical look at the nature of God, man, sin, and other fundamentals of Christian faith.
The post Spiritual Doubts and Your Kids – MBFLP 228 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
“What makes you think you’re qualified to homeschool?”That’s one of the frequently asked questions, isn’t it? And if nobody in your family, church, or neighborhood asks — you’ll probably ask yourself. Don’t you have to have a teacher’s certificate to really be a teacher? Shouldn’t you go to college and get an education degree first? Or is the credential less important for a homeschool than a classroom?
This episode, we’re taking a listener’s question and talking about homeschooling with confidence – without specialized training or professional certification. We did it, and you can too!
Do you have a question or a suggestion to share?We’d love to hear from you! Call our Listener Response Line and leave a message, and maybe we can answer your questions in a future episode!
Visit our sponsor:
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CTCMath specializes in providing online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning. Favorably reviewed in Cathy Duffy’s 102 Top Picks and The Old Schoolhouse Crew Review, the lessons are short and concise to help your children break down concepts and appreciate math in a whole new way!
The lessons are taught the traditional way, not to a “test”.
Each one of the video tutorials is taught by an internationally acclaimed teacher, Pat Murray, who is renowned for teaching math concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand way (and in only a few minutes at a time). Using a multi-sensory approach having the combination of effective graphics and animation synchronized with the voice of a friendly teacher together with practical assessment. This three-pronged attack makes learning so much easier and more effective. Even students who struggled with math are getting fantastic results! And ones who were doing OK before are now doing brilliantly.
Visit ctcmath.com today to start your free trial.
The post Qualified to Homeschool – MBFLP 266 (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Motivating Boys to Write (Replay)Episode 250 | Making Biblical Family Life Practical
Sponsored by CTCMath.com
Does your son hate writing?If every writing assignment turns into frustration, avoidance, or even tears—you’re not alone.
This episode will help you understand why boys struggle with writing—and what actually works.
Listen to This Episode
If you’re homeschooling a boy (or just helping your son with his homework!) you’ve probably seen his frustration about writing. Yet the ability to put thoughts into words and words onto paper is a crucial skill for life and career. How can you get past his natural hesitation and open up that channel for communication? This episode we talk about some of the reasons why your boy may hate to write, and then, practical ways to overcome those hurdles!
New Here? Start with These EpisodesIf you’re raising and homeschooling boys, these episodes will help:
- Teen Boys Who Hate School? Causes & Fixes | MBFLP #178
- Boys with Pens, Special Host: Beth Purcell
- Wisdom For Raising Boys
- Lifeschooling with Boys – Hal and Melanie Young | Replay
- Summertime Favorites – Boys, Again
- Best Shows Replay: Homeschooling Boys: What’s the Difference?
This Episode Is Especially Helpful If:* your son avoids writing * handwriting slows him down * he has great ideas but won’t put them on paper * writing turns into daily frustration * you feel stuck teaching writing
How do you get your boys to write — without daily battles?
In this practical episode, Hal and Melanie share encouragement and actionable strategies to help boys develop confidence and skill in writing. Whether your son struggles with handwriting, hates blank pages, or simply resists writing assignments, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and give you tools that work.
The Breakthrough Most Parents MissHandwriting is NOT the same as writing.
If writing is physically exhausting, your child can’t focus on ideas.
Try this instead:* Let them dictate * Use typing instead of handwriting * Try speech-to-text * Focus on ideas first, mechanics later
Motivate Through InterestWriting becomes easier when it connects to what they already love.
Instead of generic prompts, try:
- Birds of prey
- Military history
- Race cars
- Engineering
- Survival skills
- Science topics
- Personal hobbies
If they’re already thinking about it, they’re halfway to writing about it.
Use CompetitionBoys often respond well to:
- Writing contests
- Timed challenges
- Friendly sibling competitions
- Submissions to magazines or local contests
Even reluctant writers may engage when there’s a challenge involved.
Practical Writing AssignmentsNonfiction and real-life writing can be especially motivating:
- Write an email to inquire about a purchase
- Draft a thank-you note
- Research and explain how something works
- Write instructions
- Explain a process
- Compare tools, gear, or equipment
When writing has purpose, it feels valuable.
Teach Brainstorming the Right WayInstead of starting with a formal outline, begin with a content web (also called a mind map).
How it works:
- Put the topic in the center.
- Add related ideas in circles around it.
- Connect subpoints.
- Let ideas flow freely before organizing.
This method:
- Matches how the brain naturally works
- Reduces pressure
- Encourages creativity
- Makes organization easier later
Once ideas are visible, structure emerges naturally.
Teach a Simple Writing FormulaStructure reduces stress.
Start with a simple paragraph formula:
- Introduction sentence
- Point #1 + evidence
- Point #2 + evidence
- Point #3 + evidence
- Conclusion sentence
This easily grows into:
- A 3-paragraph essay
- A 5-paragraph essay
- Larger structured papers
Once they master structure, creativity can expand.
Don’t Forget Research SkillsTeach early:
- Copy and paste URLs while researching
- Keep a running list of sources
- Use tools like EasyBib to format citations
- Learn basic bibliography skills
This prevents stress later in high school and college — and builds real academic strength.
Why Writing Matters (Even for Engineers)Strong writing:
- Opens doors professionally
- Helps explain technical ideas
- Wins funding and support
- Communicates complex thoughts clearly
- Builds leadership skills
Writing isn’t just an English skill — it’s a life skill.
Encouragement for ParentsYou can teach your boys to love writing.
It may take:
- Dictation
- Different prompts
- Practical assignments
- Competitions
- Patience
- Creative brainstorming
But growth happens.
One son who once struggled with writing is now working on his doctoral dissertation — and loving the process.
Connect With UsHave a question or topic suggestion?
Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
Visit:
- RaisingRealMen.com
- CraftsmanCrate.com
Thank you for joining us for another episode of
Making Biblical Family Life Practical
The post How to Motivate Boys to Write – MBFLP 250 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Dealing With Conflict With Tweens and Teens: Anger, Hormones, and Staying the Adult in the RoomPodcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical with Hal & Melanie Young
Episode: Dealing With Conflict With Tweens and Teens (replay)
“Is it normal for a nine-year-old boy to be angry?”
In this episode, Hal and Melanie Young respond to a parent’s honest question—with a big backstory behind it. Family stress, pressure, and emotional overload can collide with early puberty changes and create what the Youngs call the “rage monster years.” The good news: while it can feel scary and personal, this season is often normal, predictable, and shepherdable.
You’ll learn how to respond biblically and practically when your tween or teen loses control—without escalating the conflict, losing your authority, or damaging the relationship.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why hormonal emotional changes in boys often begin before physical changes are visible * How to recognize when your child’s anger is developmental vs. intensified by family stress * What to do when your tween/teen starts making wild accusations and blaming you for how they feel * Why parents must avoid “jumping on the roller coaster” and instead become the steady reference point* * A practical step-by-step approach to conflict:
+ **Stay calm**
+ **Pray immediately**
+ **Separate to cool down if needed**
+ **Listen first**
+ **Bring it to God’s Word**
+ **Address disrespect after they’re teachable**
- Why you “can’t discipline until they are teachable” (discipline as discipleship, not payback)
- How modeling repentance and humility can increase respect, not reduce it
- The long-term payoff: when you shepherd this stage well, the teen years can be sweet and strong
Key Talking Points1) “Rage Monster Years” Can Start Earlier Than You ExpectMany parents expect emotional turbulence to begin with obvious puberty markers—but the hardest emotional changes often come first. Knowing this ahead of time helps parents respond with clarity instead of fear.
2) Don’t Take the Bait: Hormonal Anger Creates False AccusationsWhen kids feel angry for reasons they don’t understand, they instinctively look for a “cause.” Parents become the easiest target. If you respond emotionally, you accidentally validate their narrative.
3) Parents Must Stay Calm and Stay in ChargeHal and Melanie emphasize that you are the adult in the room. Your child may feel out of control, but they should not be allowed to run the home emotionally. You don’t need your child’s permission to parent—God gave you that responsibility.
4) Don’t Discipline Mid-MeltdownCorrecting disrespect matters—but punishment in the middle of an emotional spiral usually escalates the war. The goal is to cool the fire, remove the fuel, and wait until the child can actually receive instruction.
5) Listen First to Preserve the RelationshipListening doesn’t mean agreeing. It means showing your child they matter and that the relationship is secure. When you listen, you remove a common weapon: “You don’t care. You never listen.”
6) Take Conflict Back to ScriptureThis episode reinforces that God’s Word carries more authority and power than parental frustration. A key reminder: “The wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God.” (James)
Recommended Resources Mentioned Shepherding a Child’s Heart — Ted Tripp * The Heart of Anger — Lou Priolo*
Encouragement for Parents in This SeasonThis stage can be one of the hardest—especially when family stress is already high. But Hal and Melanie share hope from their own parenting journey: when you shepherd your kids through this time with steadiness, humility, and biblical clarity, you can build a stronger relationship that pays dividends through the teen years.
Listen + ConnectFind more episodes and resources at HalandMelanie.com
Follow on Facebook: Facebook.com/RaisingRealMen and Facebook/HalandMelanie
The post How to Handle Conflict With Tweens and Teens – MBFLP appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Husbands and Dads: Love Like JesusThis is a replay of a popular episode and links mentioned in the episode have been updated in the show notes.
Making Biblical Family Life Practical
with Hal & Melanie Young
Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. Episode OverviewIn this timely and thoughtful episode, Hal and Melanie Young address the essential question: What does the Bible actually teach about the role of husbands and fathers?
Rather than reacting to cultural noise or popular teachers, Hal and Melanie walk listeners through Scripture—examining marriage, leadership, submission, love, and fatherhood as God designed them. This conversation challenges extremes, rejects abuse of authority, and calls families back to Christ-like, self-sacrificial leadership rooted in love.
What We Talk About in This Episode Why current controversies make it essential to return to Scripture * Men and women created together in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) * Equality before God does not mean sameness of roles * What biblical submission actually means—and what it does not* mean * Why Scripture never teaches “women submit to men” * Mutual submission among believers (Ephesians 5:21) * The husband’s calling to love sacrificially like Christ (Ephesians 5:25) * Why leadership in the home must never enable sin or abuse * Honoring wives as fellow heirs of the grace of life (1 Peter 3:7) * Marriage as friendship, partnership, and shared mission * Loving rebuke, accountability, and spiritual maturity in marriage * Biblical fatherhood: guidance without harshness or domination * Why fathers are warned not to provoke or discourage their children * Helping children grow into adults who follow God—not parental control * Shifting from authority over children to influence and counsel * Modeling Christ-like leadership through humility and service
Key Scripture References* Genesis 1:27 * Galatians 3:28 * Ephesians 5:21–25 * Ephesians 6:1–4 * 1 Peter 3:7 * Colossians 3:19–21 * 1 Corinthians 7:2–4 * 1 Corinthians 13 * Proverbs 27:17 * Acts 5:29
Recommended ResourceThe Bible speaks about marriage as a partnership, like two horses pulling in harness together. It’s a good image of shared purpose and common goals – but we need to be sure we spend time face-to-face as well as shoulder-to-shoulder! Isn’t it time to really look at one another and think about yourselves as a couple – not just partners in parenting and colleagues in the business of home life?
To help that along, we came up with a little project we call Lovebirdseed. You’ll get a weekly email with suggestions for things you can talk about or do together that will bring you closer again. Some are memories to share, some are questions to discuss, some are memories to make. And nearly all of them are things that we’ve done and discussed in our own time as a couple!
Just wanted you to know that I’ve (we’ve) been enjoying Lovebirdseed! It comes to my e-mail, so my husband never sees the e-mail…but he sees the results. We’ll celebrate 32 years of marriage in August, and these reminders of our early days, weeks, years have been very good for me (us). Thanks for all you do!
We’re offering this for free, because we want to help you keep or build or rebuild the sort of friendship that marriage should be. Just give us your email address and we’ll add you to our newsletter list, plus send you the first suggestion right away! Then you’ll get another suggestion every few days to help you build a deeper and deeper friendship with your mate.
Get your Lovebirdseed here. My Beloved and My Friend: How to Be Married to Your Best Friend Without Changing Spouses
by Hal & Melanie Young
Learn how biblical marriage is built on friendship, sacrifice, and joy—not power struggles.
Visit:
- raisingrealmen.com
About the ShowMaking Biblical Family Life Practical equips families to apply God’s Word to everyday life with clarity, grace, and faithfulness.
Visit: HalandMelanie.com
Facebook: facebook.com/RaisingRealMen
The post MBFLP – Let’s Talk Husbands & Dads: Love Like Jesus appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Teaching Adulting: How to Prepare Teens for Real-Life Responsibility (Replay)Studies show that young adults are often not prepared for adult independence. Psychologists say the current generation is growing up slowly, and some even say “Twenty-five is the new fifteen”! But if our parents and grandparents were functioning adults at 18 or 20, why can’t our kids be the same?* This episode we’re talking about how to teach adult skills intentionally to our teenagers – and what to do if they graduated before you were done teaching!
Podcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical
Hosts: Hal & Melanie Young
Episode: Teaching Adulting (Replay)
How do you help your kids move from being cared for… to being capable?
In this replay episode, Hal and Melanie Young tackle a growing concern among parents: many teens and young adults are leaving home without the basic skills needed for adulthood—not because parents don’t care, but because they were never shown how to make the transition.
From chores and budgeting to decision-making and responsibility, this episode offers practical, biblical guidance for raising competent, confident adults—without fear, guilt, or burnout.
Why “Adulting” Doesn’t Happen AutomaticallyHal and Melanie discuss how modern parenting often removes obstacles for children with good intentions—but unintended consequences. When parents do everything, kids miss the chance to learn:
- How to manage money and pay bills
- How to work for pay and value responsibility
- How to cook, clean, and care for themselves
- How to make decisions—and live with the results
Research shows fewer teens today are working, driving, or taking on household responsibilities than in previous generations—leaving many unprepared for independence.
When Adulting Should Start (Hint: It’s Earlier Than You Think)Adulting doesn’t begin at 18—it begins in the preteen and teen years.
Key practices discussed in this episode include:
- Giving meaningful, skill-building chores (not just “feed the dog” tasks)
- Teaching teens to cook full meals, do laundry, and manage a household
- Encouraging initiative rather than nagging
- Allowing teens to make decisions while consequences are still manageable
These steps don’t overwhelm kids—they equip them.
Coaching Teens Through Real-Life ResponsibilitiesOne of the most powerful lessons in this episode is the idea of side-by-side training, not sudden independence.
Hal and Melanie explain how to:
- Walk teens through paying bills before handing them full responsibility
- Teach budgeting, due dates, and financial prioritization
- Gradually transfer responsibility while staying available to coach
- Let teens experience appropriate consequences without abandonment
This mirrors the biblical model of discipleship—watch, do together, then do independently.
What Skills Should Teens Have Before Leaving Home?The Youngs encourage parents to intentionally ask:
“What do we want our kids to be able to do when they leave our home?”
Some essentials discussed:
- Driving safely and confidently
- Cooking real meals (not just reheating food)
- Managing money and paying bills
- Doing laundry and basic home care
- Making appointments and advocating for themselves
- Changing a tire and handling basic emergencies
These aren’t extreme expectations—they’re life skills.
A Biblical Perspective on Maturity and PracticeHal connects adulting skills to Hebrews 5:14, reminding parents that maturity comes through practice, not protection from every challenge.
True preparation means:
- Teaching discernment
- Allowing responsibility
- Coaching through mistakes
- Building confidence through experience
This isn’t about control—it’s about discipleship.
Encouragement for Parents Who Feel BehindIf you’re thinking, “We haven’t done this well,” this episode offers hope.
It’s not too late to:
- Start teaching life skills
- Walk your teen through responsibilities
- Shift from managing to mentoring
Adulting is taught by doing adult things—together, then independently.
Listen to the full episode to hear real-life examples, biblical wisdom, and practical steps you can start using right away.
For more encouragement and resources, visit HalandMelanie.com or follow Hal and Melanie on social media through Raising Real Men.
The post Teaching “Adulting” – MBFLP 234 (New Year Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Choosing Meaningful Gifts for the FamilyWe like the whole giving-and-receiving tradition of Christmas because it celebrates God’s greatest gift – His Son, bringing His grace — and face it, it’s just fun! But sometimes we get discouraged at not just the commercialization of the holiday, but how thoughtless and mechanical that gift buying can become. This episode we’ll talk about how you make this tradition more meaningful for the giver and the receiver alike.
Be sure to check out our gift guide at Raising Real Men.
The post MBFLP – Choosing Meaningful Gifts for the Family (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
This week we’re talking about gift giving – it’s Biblical, you know! But how do you manage it without being immersed in the commercialism of a secular holiday, while glorifying God and having fun together? We’ve found that being more intentional and deliberate in choosing gifts and even in how we open them together, and encouraging our children to think of people rather than stuff at Christmas, has great benefits!
Biblical Passages We MentionedThe wise men who brought gifts to Jesus – Matthew 2:1-11
The people feasted and shared with each other over joy in God’s word – Nehemiah 8:9-10 – And Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the LORD your God … Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”How Our Family Christmas List is StructuredWe described how our family keeps up with everyone’s “wish list” – not just at Christmas, but all year long! Here’s the basic framework – each person’s section of the family list is divided into price brackets, and it’s the responsibility of each person to keep their list up to date. And when the shopping happens, gift-givers quietly delete items so others don’t duplicate their gift!
NAMEUpdated: (be sure to make a note here when you make changes to your list!)
- $1-$5 Gifts: Your categories may differ, depending on the ages in your family and your personal budgets. We have to consider young children, teenagers, college students, and adults of all sorts.
- $5-$15 Gifts: If you have specific items in mind, you might include links to places these might be found. Many in our families are avid readers. We often have lists of books here – and links to Amazon.com or Thriftbooks.com to make it easy
- $15-$30 Gifts: Grown-up level
- Big Gifts: Because you never know when someone might find a great deal, or several people collaborate
- Crafts, Work, and Services: Busy people may appreciate help with a particular hard-to-schedule need. One of Hal’s hopes last year was for help replacing our garage door – and two of our adult sons came over and made a weekend project of it!
Looking for more ideas?Check out our favorite board games.
And visit our Gift Guide for Boys.
Shop our Craftsman Crates and More.
The post Gift Giving in a Big Family – MBFLP 273 (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Celebrating Thanksgiving: Christ-Centered Traditions & HistoryMaking Biblical Family Life Practical with Hal & Melanie Young
Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays that still says what it means—giving thanks. But how do we move it beyond food, football, and stress, and turn it into a joyful, Christ-centered family tradition?
In this episode, Hal and Melanie share how you can reclaim Thanksgiving as a time of purposeful remembrance, gratitude, and witness to your extended family—without losing the fun or the feast.
In This Episode, We Talk About:Why Thanksgiving is worth “reforming”
- How Thanksgiving is uniquely suited to be a God-centered holiday in modern culture
- The biblical pattern of feasts and memorials (like Passover) as models for our celebrations
- Why Christians should be known for joyful feasting, not just “saying no” to everything
The real story behind the first Thanksgiving
- The suffering and “dying time” the Pilgrims endured their first winter
- God’s providence in Squanto’s story and the empty land where they settled
- Why reading William Bradford and Edward Winslow in their own words gives a truer, richer picture than the typical school version
- How the character of the Pilgrims and Puritans still shapes the American mindset: conviction, courage, and willingness to do hard things
Making Thanksgiving Christ-centered at your house
- Why hosting the celebration yourself lets you set the tone, pace, and priorities
- Using history, Scripture, song, and simple traditions to turn the day into a living testimony
- How these practices can gently impact even very “worldly” or skeptical family members
Practical Ideas You Can Use This Year1. The Thanksgiving Tree
A simple, powerful gratitude habit:
- Tape or pin a paper tree trunk to the wall
- Put a basket of paper “leaves” and a pen on the table
- Every time you sit down to eat, everyone writes one thing they’re thankful for and adds it to the tree
- Over time, the tree fills up and helps your family see just how much God has done—even in hard seasons like job loss or uncertainty
2. Five Kernels of Corn Tradition
To remember the Pilgrims’ real hunger and God’s real provision:
- Place five kernels of corn on each person’s plate
- Have the youngest confident reader read the poem “Five Kernels of Corn”
- As you eat, each person shares five specific things they’re thankful for—one for each kernel
- This tradition humbles us, reminds us of what our ancestors endured, and helps us appreciate God’s daily mercies
3. Reading and Singing Together
Bring back the old, good traditions:
- Read from primary sources about the first Thanksgiving (Bradford, Winslow, historic proclamations from Washington or Lincoln)
- Share the story of God’s providence in the Pilgrims’ lives in their own words
- Sing classic hymns of praise and thanksgiving as a family after the meal
- Don’t be surprised when even very “sophisticated” or non-religious relatives are deeply moved—many people quietly long for meaning, ceremony, and reflection
Resources Mentioned We Gather Together (Thanksgiving e-book) UPDATE 2025: This resource is not titled, “Christ-Centered Thanksgiving”*
A complete guide to celebrating a Christ-centered Thanksgiving:
+ True accounts and quotes from Pilgrim history
+ Thanksgiving proclamations
+ Songs and hymns to sing
+ Planning pages, charts, and forms for stress-free hosting
+ Tried-and-true recipes (including how to cook the best turkey ever!)
+ Scripts and ideas for what to say and do at your celebration Learn more at: **RaisingRealMen.com**
-
Pollyanna (Unabridged Audiobook by Melanie Young)
The original, funny, thoughtful story—not the syrupy version!- A pastor’s daughter who always looks for God’s blessing in every circumstance
- Perfect family read-aloud or listen-together in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving
- Helps cultivate a “gratitude habit” in your home Find it at: RaisingRealMen.com/Pollyanna
TakeawayYou don’t have to settle for a holiday that’s all about food and football. With a little planning and a bit of boldness, you can:
- Turn Thanksgiving into a family tradition your kids will treasure
- Offer a gentle, powerful witness to your extended family
- Reclaim a holiday that’s already about thanking God, and point the gratitude clearly back to Him
Listen & ShareYou can listen to this episode and others in the series at:
HalandMelanie.com/radio or by searching “Making Biblical Family Life Practical” on your favorite podcast app.
If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to leave a review on iTunes? It helps more families discover the show and recapture their holidays for Christ.
The post Making Thanksgiving Meaningful for Your Family – MBFLP appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
(Stock Image: Deposit Photos)
Most of our eight kids are adults now and we are so blessed to have good relationships with all of them – and they all get along with their siblings, too! Some people ask if they’ve always been peaceable, and we have to say NOPE. But we found several things along the way that helped shape the sort of family we have today – that’s the subject of this episode!
References Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. (James 4:1-3)
“You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him.You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.” (God, in Leviticus 19:17-18)
“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’”(Jesus, in Matthew 18:15-16)
One of our favorite resources: “The Brother Offended Checklist” (Doorposts)
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The post “Didn’t Your Kids Fight?” – MBFLP 314 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Christians and Jews are sometimes called “People of the Book” because we rest our beliefs on the written word of God. It’s natural for a new believer to have a new desire to read the Bible — but there are a lot of different versions on the shelf! What makes them different? Which Bible is best for new believers? What would we recommend for young readers? We’ve used many different Bibles over the years, and this episode we’re talking about what we’ve experienced, what we used with our family, and what we’d recommend for someone new to the faith!
RESOURCES YOU MIGHT FIND HELPFULAre you a new believer, or do you know one?
You might find our last episode helpful:
Episode 312 – Going to Church for the First Time?
We visited Washington, DC, and recorded this episode from the Museum of the Bible. If you’re there in the city full of museums, this one is definitely worth a stop!
Episode 308 – The Bible is Reliable
Bible Programs We Like Hal likes Bible App by Olive Tree and Melanie uses the ESV Bible App by Crossway. Both have reading schedules to help you make Bible a daily habit and keep you on track! Some of our young people like YouVersion, too. All of these are available for Android or iPhone users.
A more complex app (and website) Hal uses for study is The Blue Letter Bible
This free app allows you to choose from more than 15 English translations, the Latin Vulgate, multiple Greek versions, and a large number of modern languages, too — along with links to commentaries and study tools. Really useful for deep personal study, or just to clarify a confusing verse (how do other translations phrase this?)
The best part of a phone app is you always have the Bible with you – and it’s easy to look up references or passages with the search function, too.
The post What Bible Should I Get? – MBFLP 313 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
After the shocking and tragic death of Charlie Kirk last month, there was an unexpected tide of people online who found themselves drawn to God in a way they never had. Some had left the church of their childhood years ago, while others had never been in church at all! Suddenly they felt a call to be in church now. And many had questions – how do I approach this? Do I need an invitation? What’s expected of me? This episode, we’ll look at some common questions and give some good news for those whose hearts are strangely warmed!
Some Resources You Might Find HelpfulWhen You Need to Find a New Church (episode 164) – We talk about some steps we take if the time comes to find a new church, whether due to relocation, a need for different ministries, or some other reason.
Children and “Big Church” (episode 218) – We talk about how we raised our eight children to stay in the main service at church, rather than going to children’s ministry or the nursery. It’s possible, with patience and gentleness, to teach even very young kids when to stay quiet and (reasonably) still, and actually to learn some things from the sermon as well!
The post First Time in Church? – MBFLP 312 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
On October 31, 1517, a young theologian and priest named Martin Luther posted a list of debate questions on the door of the university church in Wittemburg, Germany. What was intended as a invitation for scholars and theologians to meet and consider, became the starting point of a sweeping reformation of Christ’s church – and led to a life-and-death decision for the young Brother Martin. Our family takes time each year to remember the heroism of one man who stood up for the authority of God’s word against the challenge of an emperor, when that stand could have cost his life! Join us as we talk about our family’s celebration of Reformation Day.
Resources: https://www.raisingrealmen.com/product/reformationday/
The post MBFLP – Celebrating Reformation Day (Reformation Season Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Halloween and the ReformationHalloween and the Reformation may not seem to have much in common. What does Halloween have to do with the Reformation? In this episode listen as you learn about Halloween alternatives.
Be sure to follow this episode several ways! One by subscribing to this podcast here – and another is listening on iTunes, Spotify, download or listen on this website. Look up this podcast on any podcast app! You can also share this with a friend.
Among the secular holidays, Halloween probably is the most controversial … with good reason. Is it just a festival of candy for children in costume, or a throwback to Druidic rites and demonic celebration, or something in between? This episode we talk about how we’ve chosen to mark the season, and its connection with the Reformation that swept Europe in the 1500’s – with effects to this day. In this way, our children enjoy a celebration. A celebration of something we can believe in!
Thank you to the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Sponsors: CTC Math, True North Academy, and Math Mammoth.
Things You Might Find Interesting about Halloween and the Reformation:5 Tips for Reformation Day Fun (from Concordia Publishing House)
Our interview with Luther biographer Danika Cooley (episode 99)
Reformation Day: A Celebration of Heroism (from our blog, Raising Real Men)
Reformation Myth Busters: Truth That Changed the WorldAll around us, October is filled with darkness, fear, and make-believe — but for believers, this season points to something real and world-changing. Over 500 years ago, a handful of ordinary men and women took a stand on an extraordinary truth: that salvation comes by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
This month, we’re separating myth from truth in our Reformation Myth Busters series. Join us as we uncover what really happened in the Reformation, why it matters for our families today, and how we can redeem October 31st by celebrating light over darkness and truth over fear.
Follow along on Facebook and Instagram @raisingrealmen — and download our Reformation Day Celebration Guide to help your family mark the day with meaning and joy!
Get the guide here »
The post Halloween and the Reformation (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Rules are a good and necessary part of running a home and raising a family.Why do our best efforts sometimes breed resentment or even rebellion, when it’s all so well-intentioned? This episode we’re looking at the crucial balance between rules and relationship in our home!
Treasure Hunt Tip: Listen to the podcast to hear a Golden Homeschool Nuggest from fellow Ultimate Homeschool Network Podcast show host, Dr. Melanie Wilson from the Homeschool Sanity Show!
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!
Scriptures We ReferenceThe Ten Commandments – Exodus 20:1-17, Deuteronomy 5:1-21
“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22:36-40)Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. (Romans 14:5)
Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. (Ephesians 6:1)
So then, my beloved, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:19-20)
The repentance of Ahab – 1 Kings 21:17-29
The post Rules and Relationship – MBFLP 289 | Birthday Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Some things are unquestionable, life-changing moments – an unexpected death in the family, a natural disaster, a major accident. But what about things which just show up and disrupt everything? The smaller emergencies which aren’t big enough to awaken heroism, but are big enough to bring out all our doubts, fears, frustrations, and temper? The “breaking news” which could be really unpleasant, but you can’t be sure?
We’ve dealt with this – frequently, and even recently! So this episode, we’re talking about some practical ways to meet stressful news with calmness and faith … even if it takes a few minutes to make the adjustment!
Passages We ReferencedMatthew 10:29-31 (Jesus): “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
Philippians 4:6 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God
Romans 8:28 – And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Books We MentionedJudith Viorst, The Tenth Good Thing About Barney. This is a great children’s book about remembering the good things in the middle of sad times. It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the stress of the moment, and forget that happiness is real just like sorrow – and life will have some of both.
Eleanor H. Porter, Pollyanna – check out the audiobook version narrated by Melanie!** The book is much better than the Disney version (more clearly Biblical, for one thing), and funny as well as thought-provoking. Even our teenaged sons enjoyed it, though the main character is a young girl at the time. Important lessons about always finding a reason to rejoice, even in difficulty.
NEXT TIMEHelping your kids through stressful times …
UPDATE –We mentioned that our van broke down on a speaking trip in July, and at the time of recording, had been in the shop for several weeks waiting on an engine replacement. We’re glad to say that the van is now repaired and back home – thank you for your prayers and support!
A Special Thank You to Our Network Sponsor: Thanks to NOW Programs, this evidence-based program helps students learn differences.
The post Dealing with Stressful News – MBFLP Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
We’ve seen that understanding history can help us navigate the present, too! The question is, how can we help our children learn to appreciate history like we do? What can we do to spark their interest, to make it memorable, and bring it to life for them? This episode we talk about several things we’ve built into our homeschooling family life to elevate history from dry lists of names and dates to a lively narrative of people, places, and ideas – in short, a grand story!
Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math. CTC is a highly rated math curriculum for homeschooled students for grades K-12. The family math package makes it ideal for large families at a low price. Visit the website for more information.
The post Bringing History to Life! – MBFLP 296 (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Happily Married While Homeschooling?Happily Married and Homeschooling, podcast episode of Making Biblical Family Life Practical with Hal & Melanie Young.
Everyone tells you that homeschooling isn’t an educational choice, but a lifestyle! Should we be surprised if we discover that homeschooling has an impact on our marriage? It’s true, and if we’re not watchful, our marriage could be a weak spot in our family’s new endeavor. Hal and Melanie have been married for 27 years and homeschooling for 20, and this week they share some ideas of stumbling blocks to avoid and how you can make both your homeschool and your relationship strong!
This episode sponsored by CTC Math.Are you looking for a new Math Curriculum?
CTCMath specializes in providing online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning. Favorably reviewed in Cathy Duffy’s 102 Top Picks and The Old Schoolhouse Crew Review, the lessons are short and concise to help your children break down concepts and appreciate math in a whole new way!
The lessons are taught the traditional way, not to a “test”.
Each one of the video tutorials is taught by an internationally acclaimed teacher, Pat Murray, who is renowned for teaching math concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand way (and in only a few minutes at a time). Using a multi-sensory approach having the combination of effective graphics and animation synchronized with the voice of a friendly teacher together with practical assessment. This three-pronged attack makes learning so much easier and more effective. Even students who struggled with math are getting fantastic results! And ones who were doing OK before are now doing brilliantly.
Visit c-t-c-math.com today to start your free trial.
Real. Authentic. Practical.We’re Hal and Melanie Young. We’re not just authors and speakers, but we’re the parents of six sons (in a row!) and two daughters. The experience of raising this van-full has proved two things – you need God’s wisdom to raise a family, and you need help to make it practical!
That’s our goal and message—start with Biblical foundations, then share how to put principles into practice.
The reality is that God gave each family a mix of parents, children, and personalities, in a particular time and circumstance. They’re all unique, so every family’s “practical” may be a little different, and still be totally Biblical. That’s why we focus on principles instead of checklists. Instead of more law, we need more grace!
And it’s grace that drives us to Jesus Christ, the one who ultimately makes our family what it ought to be. We want to help families find practical ideas, but the risen Savior as well.
The post MBFLP – How To Be Happily Married While Homeschooling (Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
“What makes you think you’re qualified to homeschool?”That’s one of the frequently asked questions, isn’t it? And if nobody in your family, church, or neighborhood asks — you’ll probably ask yourself. Don’t you have to have a teacher’s certificate to really be a teacher? Shouldn’t you go to college and get an education degree first? Or is the credential less important for a homeschool than a classroom?
This episode, we’re taking a listener’s question and talking about homeschooling with confidence – without specialized training or professional certification. We did it, and you can too!
Do you have a question or a suggestion to share?We’d love to hear from you! Call our Listener Response Line and leave a message, and maybe we can answer your questions in a future episode!
Visit our sponsor:
Are you looking for a new Math Curriculum?
CTCMath specializes in providing online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning. Favorably reviewed in Cathy Duffy’s 102 Top Picks and The Old Schoolhouse Crew Review, the lessons are short and concise to help your children break down concepts and appreciate math in a whole new way!
The lessons are taught the traditional way, not to a “test”.
Each one of the video tutorials is taught by an internationally acclaimed teacher, Pat Murray, who is renowned for teaching math concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand way (and in only a few minutes at a time). Using a multi-sensory approach having the combination of effective graphics and animation synchronized with the voice of a friendly teacher together with practical assessment. This three-pronged attack makes learning so much easier and more effective. Even students who struggled with math are getting fantastic results! And ones who were doing OK before are now doing brilliantly.
Visit ctcmath.com today to start your free trial.
The post Qualified to Homeschool – MBFLP 266 (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Jews and Christians are known in many cultures as “The People of the Book.” Our faith is grounded on the truth of God’s word! But there is a definite history of how that word was given, recorded, and distributed over the centuries. This episode, recorded at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., we’re talking about teaching your family about that history and the reliability of the text we have today!
Resources We RecommendJosh McDowell, More Than A Carpenter
C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
Lee Strobel, The Case for Christ
The post The Bible is Reliable – MBFLP 204 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
It’s summertime, and like many families, we’re on vacation! Our annual trip to the lake is a tremendous encouragement after all the travel and work of conference season. You know what else is encouraging? To realize the Bible supports the idea!
God established a pattern of work and rest from the very beginning – creating the world in six days and ceasing His work on the seventh. It was a matter of civil law in the Old Testament, but Jesus explained that the day of rest was a blessing given to man.
In the Gospels, Jesus took His disciples aside for a time of rest after a strenuous period of ministry. (Not unlike our vacation!) And sometimes special occasions would call for a pause in the daily routine – like a wedding.
So there are examples in the Bible of doing just this – taking time off work and doing something different. It’s meant to restore our strength and courage for the tasks we return to. It may be a time to relax, or a time to do something active – but a change from our regular work.
WHAT SHOULD IT LOOK LIKE?“Vacation” doesn’t have to be a multi-thousand-dollar cruise or resort stay. We’ve done all kinds of things on a tight budget (raising eight kids on one income, and part of that time in ministry!).
- “Daycations” – go visit nearby museums, state parks, or other places you might have overlooked
- Camping – We have literally camped across the U.S., in tents – no RVs! National Forest campgrounds are inexpensive and they’ve always been well-maintained. And you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment – we found when we camped often while traveling, we got to be minimalists with our gear. (It’s not cheating for Mom and Dad to have an air mattress, though)
- Business trips – Often our whole family went with Dad on training and meeting travel. While he was in class, the rest of the family visited historic sites, museums, and natural attractions. Often, the company would cover the cost of gas instead of the airfare they expected!
- Add a few days to a college trip – We often did this when moving a student into or out of the dorms. You’re already going there, why not enjoy the local places together?
SCRIPTURES WE REFERENCEThe pattern of work and rest was established before the Fall!
Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day … Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it … (Genesis 2:1-3)
A weekly time of rest is a blessing to mankind
“The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.” (Jesus, in Mark 2:27)
There are seasons when it is appropriate to set aside regular work
“When a man has taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war or be charged with any business; he shall be free at home one year, and bring happiness to his wife whom he has taken.” (Deuteronomy 24:5)
Jesus saw the need for recuperation after extended work
Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves. (Mark 6:30-32)
You Might Find Helpful …Long Distances with Little Ones
Family Travel Hacks
The post Time Off – Vacation, the Bible, and Your Budget – MBFLP 307 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
“My son shows me disrespect.” “How can I deal with the disrespect from our kids?” “What can I do to teach my children to be more respectful?” It’s something we all have to deal with as parents, and yet it’s hard – and some of us struggle more than we expected! This episode, we look at the very real question of respect – teaching our kids to show it, dealing with them when they don’t, where this may be coming from, and what God expects from all of us!
Thank you to our episode sponsor, CTC Math.
The post Dealing with Disrespect – MBFLP 201 (replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
There’s more than academics at stake!The post Are They Ready for College? – MBFLP 305 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Homeschooling doesn’t (and shouldn’t) look like a classroom school. One big difference is multiple ages together – and sometimes, the younger ones aren’t even school age yet! How do you manage teaching your older kids while you have nursing babies and demanding toddlers in the room? It’s possible – we did it for our eight kids! – so this episode we talk about how to make it work in your family, too.
The post Homeschooling with Babies and Toddlers Around – MBFLP 297 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
We’ve seen that understanding history can help us navigate the present, too! The question is, how can we help our children learn to appreciate history like we do? What can we do to spark their interest, to make it memorable, and bring it to life for them? This episode we talk about several things we’ve built into our homeschooling family life to elevate history from dry lists of names and dates, to a lively narrative of people, places, and ideas – in short, a grand story!
The post Bringing History to Life! – MBFLP 296 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Doyohavea Do you have a precocious reader? We’ve had some! And when they’re being homeschooled – and around grownups all day – their vocabulary can be surprisingly rich. So should we move them on into the youth books, and skip over the picture books and beginning reader stuff? Or is there a purpose for […]
The post Don’t Skip the Picture Books – MBFLP 294 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
What makes a marriage last? How do you build a strong and stable relationship for hard times and good times? Is it something more than just being “lucky in love”? This episode, we’re talking with our friends and fellow teachers, Roger and Jan Smith. Between us, we have eighty years of marriage, twelve children, and […]
The post A Healthy Marriage, Day to Day (with Roger and Jan Smith) – MBFLP 293 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
This week, we’re talking with our friends Roger and Jan Smith, veteran homeschool leaders and speakers, about Roger’s new book, Parenting with Influence. The parents of four adult children, Roger and Jan share the principles they found helpful preparing their kids to take on the responsibilities of adulthood, without resorting to legalism or overbearing control. […]
The post Parenting with Influence with Roger and Jan Smith – MBFLP 292 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Homeschoolers have the blessing of flexibility on so many issues – and graduation timing is one of them. Should you plan to graduate your student at 18? What about the precocious kids who might earn a diploma by 15? Or kids with health or learning issues, should they graduate later? We’ve had all three situations […]
The post Graduation – Early or Late? – MBFLP 291 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
“You never would have let me do that,” says the older child. “Why can’t I do the same thing as my brother?” demands the younger. Parents may find themselves caught between competing complaints! But the fact is, many of our family rules can and should change as our children grow and mature – and that […]
The post Different Rules, Same Family – MBFLP 290 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Like it or not, February 14 is just around the corner. Maybe you’ve got big plans, but maybe you don’t have the funds for a romantic getaway. With eight kids and a limited budget, we’ve been there! This episode we’re talking about ways to make the most of the holiday without spending a fortune!
Why Celebrate Anyway?The Bible describes several holidays which were instituted by God for the people of Israel. When they gathered to celebrate Passover, the Feast of Weeks, or the Feast of Tabernacles, the Jews were to take the occasion to remember God’s blessings in history and the present.
The holiday of Purim was created by the people themselves, to memorialize the nation’s deliverance from genocide (as recorded in the book of Esther). Even though it’s not a pilgrimage festival like the ones God commanded, the Bible does record the celebration of Purim in favorable terms. It’s easy to draw parallels to our own holidays, like the Fourth of July to celebrate our nation’s independence, or Thanksgiving to remember God’s blessings. They’re not mandated by Scripture but they are opportunities to talk about God’s working and God’s gifts.
Valentine’s Day may be low on the priority list, as “holy days” go, but we think it’s a good time to think about our relationship with our mate and to enjoy some time to focus on one another. It’s like birthdays and anniversaries, but everyone celebrating the same day! We hope you have a good one –
(resources follow … )
Some Resources You May Find InterestingValentine’s resources including conversation starters (as mentioned in the program)
Our weekly email “LoveBirdSeeds”
Love poetry from the Bible
The post Valentine’s Day on a Budget – MBFLP 288 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Part Three of our series on work – Your kids and their chores! We have eight kids and with some health challenges around, it was really necessary that everyone contribute to running the house. This episode we deal with some common questions: Should children be paid for chores? Are we making tasks too difficult for […]
The post Kids and Chores – MBFLP 286 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Part 2 on getting our kids to work – What about school work? That’s really the daily job for our children – whether it’s homeschool or any other educational system. What can we do to overcome their natural resistance to school, and how can we encourage good habits in the pursuit of knowledge? We’ve homeschooled […]
The post Getting Schoolwork Done – MBFLP 285 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Part 2 on getting our kids to work – What about school work? That’s really the daily job for our children – whether it’s homeschool or any other educational system. What can we do to overcome their natural resistance to school, and how can we encourage good habits in the pursuit of knowledge? We’ve homeschooled […]
The post Getting Schoolwork Done – MBFLP 285 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
It’s one of the most common questions we get – “How can I get my kids to work?” Surveys find that a large number of families don’t expect their kids to do chores – and many that do, have a running battle over getting them done cheerfully. This episode, we’re talking about a balanced, Biblical […]
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It’s one of the most common questions we get – “How can I get my kids to work?” Surveys find that a large number of families don’t expect their kids to do chores – and many that do, have a running battle over getting them done cheerfully. This episode, we’re talking about a balanced, Biblical […]
The post How Can I Get My Kids to Work? – MBFLP 284 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
A lot of families are struggling during this economic downturn. It’s not the first time we’ve been through it, either. How do we respond in a positive, faith-directed manner to the undeniable challenges of the day? What can we learn and what can we teach our kids as we make our way through? […]
The post Things We Learned When Times Were Tight – MBFLP 283 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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A lot of families are struggling during this economic downturn. It’s not the first time we’ve been through it, either. How do we respond in a positive, faith-directed manner to the undeniable challenges of the day? What can we learn and what can we teach our kids as we make our way through? […]
The post Things We Learned When Times Were Tight – MBFLP 283 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
There are a lot of new homeschoolers this year, and many families may be wondering, “How will we ever manage to teach two, or three, or six grade levels at the same time?” It’s possible – Melanie has taught six students with a toddler underfoot, more than once! But there are some tricks to the […]
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It’s one thing when you’re homeschooling a child with a chronic illness – sometimes that’s the only way they’ll get an education! But what if Mom’s the one who’s struggling? What if you’re a parent with health issues, but you’re convinced that homeschooling is the best for your kids? How can you manage your days, […]
The post Homeschooling When YOU Have a Chronic Illness – MBFLP 281 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Everybody goes through seasons of illness – summer colds, seasonal flu, an occasional injury – and most of the time, we can take a few days off to get over them. But what if your student has a condition that doesn’t get better with a week in bed? How can you homeschool a child who […]
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Stories are powerful tools to teach and illustrate character – think of Jesus’ parables! We can use stories the same way. This episode we’re talking with Rick Boyer, father of a large family, about how he’s used narratives to teach his own children, and now reaches out to thousands with audiobooks and commentary. Plus we’ll […]
The post Teaching Character with Stories – Talking with Rick Boyer – MBFLP 279 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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You can feel it when you walk in the door – families have a particular culture or personality! Whether intentional or not, every home will develop its own manner of living and interacting. The question is – how can you encourage a healthy family culture that will strengthen as it goes on? How can you […]
The post Building a Family Culture – MBFLP 278 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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With the world full of resources available online, you can develop your philosophy, order your materials, and start homeschooling without ever meeting another parent-educator. That’s a blessing in many ways, especially if you live in a rural area or a foreign culture. But sometimes we think we’ve found what we need when we join the […]
The post Homeschool Conferences – and why we love them! – MBFLP 277 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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If God has called you to teach your children at home, that’s what you need to do! But it’s easier if everyone around you is cheering you on. What do you do if your parents or in-laws or extended family are skeptical? How do you and your family keep on the path when there […]
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One of the unexpected results of the pandemic has been the expansion of online-church opportunities. Even small churches like our own were able to use inexpensive tools and software to broadcast streaming worship services – without a technical crew! But is this a useful expansion to the church’s ministry and outreach – or a distraction, […]
The post Church Online – Yea or Nay? – MBFLP 275 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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How do you balance everything, between your commitments to church programs, holiday recitals, shopping and cooking and cleaning for the family … and providing a quality home education for your children? Is it even possible? Should it be? This episode, we’re talking about how we learned to manage it with eight kids … no cape […]
The post Homeschooling and the Holidays – MBFLP 274 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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This week we’re talking about gift giving – it’s Biblical, you know! But how do you manage it without being immersed in the commercialism of a secular holiday, while glorifying God and having fun together? We’ve found that being more intentional and deliberate in choosing gifts and even in how we open them together, and […]
The post Gift Giving in a Big Family – MBFLP 273 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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A member of our Facebook community asked, “What about boys crying?” There have been people who said it’s unmanly to cry, and discouraged or even disciplined their sons for crying – ever. On the other hand, some say it’s less than human to hold back the tears – so we should allow or encourage our […]
The post Help! My Son Cries About Every Little Thing! – MBFLP 272 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” the song says … and one of the busiest and most stressful, too! What can we do to maintain the spirit of celebration while the season’s demands pile on top of our already-full lives? What practical steps can we take to lighten the load and get the […]
The post Holiday Stress – and What We Do About It! – MBFLP 271 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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We adults may feel like we’re under stress all the time, but we can’t overlook the fact that our kids are suffering, too! Last episode we talked about how we respond when we’re confronted with uncertainty and unpleasant news. How can we help our kids deal with the disruptions of life on their level? Lest […]
The post Helping Kids Deal with Stress – MBFLP 270 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Some things are unquestionable, life-changing moments – an unexpected death in the family, a natural disaster, a major accident. But what about things which just show up and disrupt everything? The smaller emergencies which aren’t big enough to awaken heroism, but are big enough to bring out all our doubts, fears, frustrations, and temper? The […]
The post Dealing with Stressful News – MBFLP 269 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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The Bible says a lot about the power of the tongue – the question for us is, how do we train and encourage our families to speak in a more gracious and edifying way, when the culture around us grows more unkind and profane every day? First step – “Lord, is it me?” Never underestimate […]
The post Encouraging More Edifying Speech – MBFLP 268 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“What should I do about my kids’ ‘potty mouth’?” asked a young father in our church. Learning appropriate behavior and speech patterns is part of socialization, but is there a bigger issue than being “socially acceptable”? Society has become more tolerant of bad language Society itself isn’t a reliable guide. In the 1970s the comedian George […]
The post “Potty Mouth” – Big Deal or Not? – MBFLP 267 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“What makes you think you’re qualified to homeschool?” That’s one of the frequently asked questions, isn’t it? And if nobody in your family, church, or neighborhood asks — you’ll probably ask yourself. Don’t you have to have a teacher’s certificate to really be a teacher? Shouldn’t you go to college and get an education degree […]
The post Qualified to Homeschool – MBFLP 266 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Continuing our comparison of true homeschooling with the school-at-home model! Let’s talk about how independent home education looks different day-to-day, and why duplicating the schoolroom experience at home is more stressful, less efficient, and a lot less fun than charting a new, freer pathway to learning and exploring together. A Fundamental Distinction A lot of […]
The post Homeschooling or School-at-Home – Day to Day – MBFLP 265-2 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Is this “homeschooling” or is it “school-at-home”? Is there a difference? Many families have experienced public school from a remote location this year — and some districts are calling it “homeschooling.” But most homeschooling veterans will tell you there is a world of difference between independent, parent-led education, and taking public school classes with public […]
The post Homeschooling, or School-at-Home? – MBFLP 265-1 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Are you one of the thousands of families just beginning homeschooling – or thinking seriously about it this year? Surveys say that over one and a quarter million students aren’t returning to public schools, and the number of homeschooling families doubled between April and October last year. This episode, we continue our conversation about our […]
The post Thinking About Homeschooling – Things to Consider – MBFLP 264-2 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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One of the unexpected results of the COVID-19 pandemic is an explosion of interest in homeschooling. Researchers say the number of homeschooling families doubled between April and October of 2020, and at least 1.3 million students didn’t return to the public school system in the fall. Are you a new homeschooler? Or are you thinking […]
The post Thinking About Homeschooling – How We Decided – MBFLP 264-1 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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One of the hallmarks of adolescent behavior is social awkwardness, often to the point of anxiety. That’s true in the best of times! Yet here we are after a year of pandemic alarms, mandates, and “abundance of caution,” and you may be finding your young people are not eager to begin seeing people outside the […]
The post Teens, Preteens, and Social Anxiety – MBFLP 263 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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There are seasons to motherhood Ecclesiastes says that “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” (Eccl 3:1) Yet young women are being told that they can and should do all things right now. They’re being urged to set their priorities by the culture’s values instead of their own […]
The post Seasons of Motherhood – MBFLP 262 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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A reader writes, “I need suggestions how to discipline my 14-year-old son.” She’s finding out what we all discover – if you try to discipline your 14-year-old like he was still six, you’re likely to have a fight on your hands! So what do you do with this young person who’s growing so tall, […]
The post Effective Discipline for Teens – MBFLP 261 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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A reader asked, “What can you do about accident-prone kids who always seem to be breaking things?” “Uh oh …” We’ve all heard the dreadful sound from the next room – or the sharp crash of breaking glass – or the muffled whump in another part of the house. All kids will have moments […]
The post MBFLP 260 – Accident-Prone Kids appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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A reader asks: “How can we help dads connect with their kids?” Moms seem to naturally connect with little ones – even before they’re born! It’s not so easy for dads, though. More than one has said, “I can’t communicate with this baby – I’ll let Mama handle it until he’s six or seven, and […]
The post Helping Dad Connect With The Kids – MBFLP 259 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“How do I encourage my young men to look forward to the future?” In part 1, we talked about the reality of uncertainty as a part of every time and every life, though the immediate upheaval is a very real and very disruptive event! (see episode 257, “Making Sense of Uncertain Times”) But how can […]
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How can we encourage our young adult sons to look forward to the future? A listener asked the question, considering the wide-ranging effects of the pandemic response. What can we say or do to give hope to our young adults, when everything seems to have a roadblock? What do we do when college is reduced […]
The post Making Sense of Uncertain Times – MBFLP 257 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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As we bring up our children in the training and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4), how can we confidently address the hot button issues in our culture? When the world says humanity is a cosmic accident, society is nothing but structures of oppression, and personal autonomy and self-identification are the highest good – […]
The post The Foundations of Education – A Conversation with Ken Ham – MBFLP 256 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Welcome to the new year! Glad as we may be to see the old year passing, the challenges to our families never change. As the world around us becomes more hostile to Christian teaching, how do we prepare our children to walk in faith when they leave our home? What sort of foundation can we […]
The post Building a Legacy – A Conversation with Ken Ham – MBFLP 255 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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. Finishing up a listener’s question from episode 245, (“What Are You Reading Right Now?”), this episode Hal is talking about some of his favorite biographies, and why he likes reading this special form of history. Biography is more than just the facts Some years ago, Hal started reading biographies to learn more about figures […]
The post Biographies for Book Lovers – MBFLP 254-2 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Earlier this year we talked about books and authors the two of us enjoy together (episode 245, “What Are You Reading Right Now?”) and we mentioned that each of us has genres we like personally but separately. A caller on our Listener Response Line reminded us that we hadn’t returned to those books – “You […]
The post History for Book Lovers – MBFLP 254-1 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Part 3 – Building Friendship Between Your Children We want our kids to be friends and allies, not rivals and opponents, but that takes some conscious effort. As parents, we can make both the positive and negative efforts to build friendship and avoid tearing it down. How can we prevent harsh feelings between our kids? […]
The post Raising Siblings Without Rivalry – Part 3 – MBFLP 253-3 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Part 2 – Making Competition Helpful, Not Harmful When you’ve got more than one child, you are going to have challenges. How can you teach them to play together and enjoy games without the older ones overrunning the younger? We had six boys over a twelve-year span, so we had to figure this out! This […]
The post Raising Siblings Without Rivalry – Part 2 – MBFLP 253-2 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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One of the questions we hear most often is, “How do you deal with sibling rivalry?” We had eight children, and six boys in a row, so we had plenty of competition and challenge to work with! A certain amount is normal and can be accommodated even within the family, but it has to be […]
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Are you starting homeschooling this fall? Was it always your plan, or did the pandemic make this an unexpected “best option”? Either way, are your kids on board with the decision? Parents have the responsibility and the perspective to make this choice for their family, but sometimes the children aren’t thrilled. Even if it’s the […]
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A reader asks, “What can you do about an over-conscientious child?” C.S. Lewis observed that our sins are often forms of virtues which have gone astray. The apostle Paul wrote to the church at Colossae, “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you […]
The post The Problem of Perfectionism – MBFLP 251 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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If you’re homeschooling a boy (or just helping your son with his homework!) you’ve probably seen his frustration about writing. Yet the ability to put thoughts into words and words onto paper is a crucial skill for life and career. How can you get past his natural hesitation and open up that channel for communication? […]
The post Motivating Boys to Write – MBFLP 250 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Summertime is always a challenge – with the change of routine, it’s easy for our kids (or ourselves) to feel adrift. This year, with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, even our backup program may be on hold or cancelled. What can you do to make the most of summertime with your family, when vacation may be […]
The post Beating Boredom This Summer – MBFLP 249 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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This episode, we’re talking with Israel Wayne, homeschool graduate, father of ten, and author of the new book Raising Them Up: Parenting for Christians. He shares some of the difficulties of his childhood – parents who divorced early, an abusive stepfather, times of poverty and homelessness – and the incredible way that God has redeemed […]
The post Raising Them Up – a conversation with Israel Wayne – MBFLP 248 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Schools are still out and so’s the jury – could this be a glimpse of your future? To be honest, few people could have dreamed that millions of kids would start learning from home this spring, and nobody consulted the parents whether they felt like giving homeschooling a whirl. The good news is, if you […]
The post Quarantine School – It gets better from here! – MBFLP 247 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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How can you hunt for a college in the midst of a global pandemic? Colleges want students who demonstrate interest in their college. But how can you demonstrate interest in a college when you are sheltering in place under a “stay at home” order? Join us for this special conversation with Lee Binz, “The HomeScholar”! […]
The post Planning for College Even During COVID-19 – MBFLP 246 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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These are challenging times, and whether you need entertainment to pass the idle hours, or something diverting at the end of a stressful day, a good book is great to find. We’re book people, for sure, and we know the value of trusted authors and especially, those who have lots of titles to discover! So […]
The post What Are You Reading Right Now? – MBFLP 245 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Studies and surveys tell us up to 49% of school kids (grades 4-12) have been bulled in the past month – but homeschoolers aren’t immune to threats and intimidation. This episode, we talk with Candice Dugger of BulliedBrokenRedeemed, about what to look for if your child’s being bullied,what you can do to help the situation, […]
The post When They’re Being Bullied – MBFLP 244 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Welcome to life during a lockdown! Suddenly a lot of families are unexpected homeschoolers – and a lot of wage earners have “come home” to work near their families. It’s a huge transition, even if you planned it months ahead of time. How can you recognize and start to adjust to the very different reality […]
The post Living through Lockdown – Work and School at Home – MBFLP 243 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“What ever happened to growing up and moving out?” someone asked. The fact is, a growing number of young adults are living at home with their parents. Is this a problem? Well, sometimes yes, but sometimes not at all. This episode, we’re talking about how to work through the young adults leaving Mom and Dad’s […]
The post When It’s Time They Were Moving Out – MBFLP 242 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“February is the cruelest month” is how T.S. Eliot began The Waste Land – until Ezra Pound suggested he change it to “April” for poetic reasons. Be that as it may, February is a time of dullness for many of us. It may affect us ourselves, it may affect our children. So what can we do about […]
The post Fighting Cabin Fever – MBFLP 241 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Is sibling rivalry just something to expect? Is it a foregone conclusion that our kids are going to be simmering with jealousy, rivalry, and unkindness toward one another? Or is there a way to promote friendship and affection between brothers and sisters? We have eight kids, and while they’ve had their moments of conflict, we’ve […]
The post Raising Kids to Love Their Siblings – MBFLP 240 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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The song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many families, it’s also the most stressful. How can you accomplish all you need to do during the holidays, without putting a strain on your family relationships? And how do you deal with visiting family members who may be bringing their […]
The post Relationships and Holiday Stress – MBFLP 239 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Have you ever looked at your child and asked, “What were you thinking?” – and then realized that he wasn’t thinking at all? That’s common enough – and to be honest, sometimes it doesn’t improve in adulthood. This episode, Hal is talking about how you can help your kids become more intentional, more aware, more […]
The post Teaching Your Kids (and yourself) to THINK– MBFLP 238 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Studies show that although children who have regular chores are more likely to be happy as kids and independent as adults, less than one out of three families expect their kids to help around the house. Only 28%! As a family of ten, we found that teaching our children to help out was a necessity. […]
The post Chores – Why and How – MBFLP 237 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Hello, Friends! Melanie’s come down with laryngitis this week so we’d like to offer this return to a frequent issue for Christians in conservative churches – Modesty! And we think you’ll find there’s more to it, and less of what you may expect, when you look back to the whole Bible. We hope you enjoy […]
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Hal is out of town with the children and Melanie is helping her mother after major surgery, so this episode Melanie tackles some common ideas about motherhood that may not be quite so. Join this mother of eight (five all grown now) as she looks at “Myths of Motherhood”! “Motherhood” is one of the almost-mystical […]
The post Myths of Motherhood – MBFLP 235 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Studies show that young adults are often not prepared for adult independence. Psychologists say the current generation is growing up slowly, and some even say “Twenty-five is the new fifteen”!* But if our parents and grandparents were functioning adults at 18 or 20, why can’t our kids be the same? This episode we’re talking […]
The post Teaching “Adulting” – MBFLP 234 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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The overwhelming business of raising a child can cause us to miss the importance of our relationship with them. There’s so much to think about, so much to do, so much to pray over and work on – how can we put the proper emphasis on the “soft skills”? And yet, at the end of […]
The post The Parent-Child Relationship – MBFLP 233 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Does the Bible give us guidance on finding a mate? Of course – but it’s not as detailed as some of the more recent advice we’ve all heard. This episode we’re talking about some unmistakable – and non-negotiable – things the Scriptures tell us about guys and girls in relationship … but keeping in mind […]
The post Finding a Mate – MBFLP 232 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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What to you do when prominent Christian leaders walk away from the faith? How do you think this through, and how do you talk about it to your kids? In the past month, author and former pastor Joshua Harris announced the end of his twenty-year marriage, and almost “by the way,” renounced the Christian faith […]
The post When Christian Leaders Fall – MBFLP 231 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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We’re on the road this week, taking our son – our fifth son, by the way – off to college. He’s not taking on a load of debt – and neither are we. And we’re not rolling in dough and writing checks to cover it, either! In fact, his four older brothers have done the same […]
The post College Without Debt or Fortune – MBFLP 230 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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As we look forward to the new school year – whether with fear or anticipation – we’re looking at the problem of planning. How much is necessary? Is there a point of “too much”? What sort of process works best? We’ve been homeschooling for twenty-five years now, and we’ve probably done it all, from detailed […]
The post Planning for the New School Year – MBFLP 229 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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“Mom, I think I’m an atheist.” That was the chilling announcement from the back of the van, from our nine-year-old child. Spiritual doubts may arise at any time, especially with young teens, and this episode we’re talking about some practical things you can do to help shepherd your young person through this stormy time. […]
The post Spiritual Doubts and Your Kids – MBFLP 228 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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You spend years teaching your sons right from wrong, good manners instead of bad, and all the right social skills. Yet in a super-sensitive time, even a hint of misbehavior toward a female – sometimes just an accusation – can affect the rest of their lives! When you’ve worked hard to keep your son’s conscience […]
The post Raising Boys in a #MeToo Generation – MBFLP 227 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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It’s Graduation Time! We’re heading out for our fifth high school graduation (our homeschooled son will be in the ceremony at the North Carolinians for Home Education “Thrive!” conference). It’s a milestone that doesn’t grow stale even the fifth time around! It’s good to see our children growing into the first steps of independence, as […]
The post Unexpected Benefits of Graduation – MBFLP 226 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Who said school can’t be fun? This episode, we sit down with our friends Roger and Jan Smith, long-time homeschool parents and leaders in Louisiana. The topic is simply, “Fun” – what it can do to create memories, bond family members, and make learning a lot more enjoyable for parents and students alike! Recently we […]
The post The Importance of Fun – MBFLP 224 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Adoption is a picture of God’s love for His people. It literally saves lives and it rescues children from terrible situations. It’s not as simple as choosing a pet from the store, though, and adopted children often have problems that continue into adult life. This episode, we talk with Shauna Lopez, an adoptive parent who’s […]
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Today we’re talking about one of those most practical of all topics – money, and particularly how you teach your young people about it. This was easier with the older kids because with the older kids, I mean, you get a job, start a business, make a budget, save money, easy. You can’t tell your […]
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How do you teach your kids discernment in a world soaked in media? We may be able to tightly control our youngest children’s exposure and experience of the entertainment world, but that changes with time. We need to train our teens how to recognize both the good things in media and the deceptive things which lie […]
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HARRRCH! Greetings from our bronchitis ward! With the whole family, including your hosts, suffering from all sorts of respiratory unpleasantness … we’re going to bring back our show about navigating the challenges of sickness in your family. We hope to be healthy and “back in the saddle” soon! ~ Hal and Melanie
The traditional wedding vows include the promise to love and cherish one another “in sickness and in health.” Yet most of us come to our wedding without a lot of personal experience of serious, life-disrupting illness. We accept the vow but don’t have much practical knowledge of what that may look like. “We’ve got kids who’ve had broken bones, we’ve had a child was born with a congenital heart defect. We have had all kinds of bizarre and strange problems over the years. And yet I don’t think of us as a sickly family, … Here’s the thing. We make that promise up front that we’re going to be there for one another. We’re going to love one another even when we’re sick and you know that that’s really a practical manner. That’s really the rubber meets the road there because you know, that’s when the loving feelings just aren’t there.
“You know that you don’t have warm, fluffy feeling when one of you is throwing up in the bathroom, the romance is not in the picture at that point. And yet, …
“Do you remember when I got food poisoning? … We had only been married a matter of weeks. I will never forget that feeling of being in the bathroom throwing up and feeling such a nasty mess, and I was a newlywed! I was used to trying to be pretty and everything and I felt … so helpless. And I remember you wetting a washcloth and washing my face off and I tell you what — I felt some love for you. I felt a huge wave of affection for you.
Love is about doing. It’s not about feeling. It’s an action, a choice of our behavior toward another person rather than purely a reflection of our feelings at the moment.
“That’s an important thing to remember. You know that over and over again in Scripture, love works its way out in our actions, not just in the butterfly kind of fluffy feelings. I mean, those are there, that’s great when they’re there; but when you’re absolutely beat by chemotherapy, when you are recovering from a really difficult pregnancy, or whatever … something else comes into play than just the animal attraction.”
“You know what true love is—it’s putting someone else’s feelings and needs ahead of your own, right? There’s a passage starting in Ecclesiastes 4:9 – it says, ‘Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor, for if they fall, one will lift up his companion; but woe to him who was alone when he falls and he gas no one to help him up again. If two lie down together, they will keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.’”
“You know that the two of us in marriage together, if one of us has a need, the other one can step up and meet it. I’ll be strong one day or week or even year. And you’ll be strong another one. Can we just take turns? And in that threefold cord that’s not quickly broken — when we have the Lord to rely on, we are strong.”
Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Christian Standard Bible
The Christian Standard Bible captures the Bible’s original meaning without compromising clarity. An optimal blend of accuracy and readability, this translation helps readers make a deeper connection with God’s Word and inspires lifelong discipleship. The CSB is for everyone—for readers young and old, new and seasoned. It’s a Bible pastors can preach from and a Bible you can share with your neighbor hearing God’s Word for the very first time.
Find out more here!
The post Love in a Time of Sickness – MBFLP 221 (repeat!) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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It’s human nature – everybody has things they regret, or at least, things they’d do differently if they could. But a thoughtful reader told us she was tired of hearing everybody’s regrets – what about things we did homeschooling that turned out well, or even better than we expected?
This episode we share several things that made our homeschooling adventure more enjoyable, less anxious, and more effective for everybody. And even if you’ve been homeschooling for years and years, you’ll find useful ideas even veterans can use!
One Decision We Live With Every Day! We each had a personal library of favorite books when we got married, but as young parents we started acquiring books for our children, too. Our kids have grown up ~~with lots of books~~ ~~surrounded by books~~ absolutely swimming in books (consider the impact of eight kids and each has their own growing collection …)
The research is confirming that this is actually a good thing. A study from the Australian National University surveyed 160,000 adults from 31 different countries, from the U.S. and U.K. to Turkey, Japan, and Chile.
Respondents, who ranged in age from 25 to 65, were asked to estimate how many books were in their house when they were 16 years old. The research team was interested in this question because home library size can be a good indicator of what the study authors term “book-oriented socialization.” Participants were able to select from a given range of books that included everything from “10 or less” to “more than 500.”
The surveys, which were taken between 2011 and 2015, showed that the average number of books in participants’ childhood homes was 115, but that number varied widely from country to country. The average library size in Norway was 212 books, for instance; in Turkey, it was 27. Across the board, however, it seemed that more books in the home was linked to higher proficiency in the areas tested by the survey.
(Read more at Smithsonian Magazine)
Interestingly, the study found that a person who grew up surrounded by books but left school after the ninth grade, has nearly the same literacy scores as a university graduate who didn’t have many books growing up
“So, literacy-wise, bookish adolescence makes up for a good deal of educational advantage,” the study authors write.
How’s that for your good news of the day?
Here’s our favorite cartoon about people like us … can you relate?
NEWS AND INFORMATION NEW SPEAKING EVENTS: We’ve added three new events to our speaking schedule – next month we’ll be in Danville, Va., on February 22, and in April, Winnsboro, La. on the 7th and Shreveport, La. on the 9th. Would you like to have us speak at your event? Your support group, parents’ club, church, or other gathering? It’s super easy when we’re already on the road. Check out our events page and then drop us a line here – we’d love to hear from you!
Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Christian Standard Bible
The Christian Standard Bible captures the Bible’s original meaning without compromising clarity. An optimal blend of accuracy and readability, this translation helps readers make a deeper connection with God’s Word and inspires lifelong discipleship. The CSB is for everyone—for readers young and old, new and seasoned. It’s a Bible pastors can preach from and a Bible you can share with your neighbor hearing God’s Word for the very first time.
Find out more here!
The post Things We’re Glad We Did Homeschooling – MBFLP 220 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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What do you do when the adult kids move out … and then come back? It’s not uncommon – the Census Bureau reports that more than one out of three Millennials (ages 18-34) are living at home with their parents. (In some states, it’s nearly 50%!)
- “A Third of Young Adults Live With Their Parents”
Jonathan Vespa, U.S. Census Bureau * “Young adults living with their parents hits a 75-year high”
Aimee Pichi, CBS News
This is not unusual historically – when we look back in our family history a hundred years or more, we see it was common for adult children to be living with parents and sharing the work of farm, forge, and kitchen – or for newlyweds to be living with their parents or in-laws for a time, too.
But this has become more common in recent years. Why?
Young people are getting married later – age of first marriage is approaching 30 for men and 27 for women
- In 1976, 75% of men and 93% of women were married by age 30
- In 2014, it was half that – 32% of men and 46% of women
- More Millennials live with their parents than with a spouse
Student loan debt is a serious burden to many, too. The average college graduate with a bachelor’s degree left school with nearly $28,500 in debt
- “Student Load Debt Statistics”
Brianna McGurran, NerdWallet.com
And this all happening in the midst of a long, sluggish recovery from the financial crises of 2008 and beyond.
So it’s not surprising or rare for parents to find themselves with a twenty-something son or daughter moving back into their old bedroom.
The question is, how can we make this work for all of us?
This episode is brought to you by
The subscription box that builds your skills! www.CraftsmanCrate.com
The post When Adult Kids Move Back Home – MBFLP 219 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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Should children be in the main church service with the big people? We had eight children and we’ve tried to keep them in “big church” with us as much as possible. And we found that, with some wisdom and attention, it’s not only possible, but actually very good – and the kids learn much more than you might expect! This episode, we’re talking about the why and how of bringing little kids into the worship and teaching of the whole church.
Children and Worship in the Bible Many churches have separate services for kids, “children’s church,” in addition to nurseries that sometimes include kids well out of the diaper years. We’ve been to churches that strongly encouraged – or even demanded – that children be sent out of the main sanctuary! But what do we see in the Bible?
In both the Old and New Testaments, children are specifically welcomed among the adults in formal and informal times of worship
- Moses included children and “little ones” when he gathered the people to hear and re-affirm the covenant (Deuteronomy 29:11)
- Even children seven and under were expected to benefit from Scriptural teaching (Deuteronomy 31:10-13)
- Very young children were included in other times of worship and prayer (2 Chronicles 20:13, Ezra 10:1, Nehemiah 10:28, Joel 2:16)
- Jesus accepted the worship of children when He entered Jerusalem, quoting Psalm 8:2 (Matthew 21:16)
- Jesus welcomed children into His presence even when the disciples didn’t (Matthew 19:14, Mark 10:14, Luke 18:16)
- Children were present for Jesus’ teaching and miracles (Matthew 14:21, John 6:9)
- Jesus taught his disciples they should learn from the simple faith of children (Matthew 18:2-5)
- Children are mentioned in gatherings with the apostles, too (Acts 21:5)
Making It Work – For Everybody
We were bringing babies and young children into the services long before it was cool! We were inspired and encouraged by Edith Schaeffer’s books where she described how she had managed her own young family in church, and we decided to try it ourselves. Here’s what we learned:
- Remember children are, after all, children. Don’t expect them to act like tiny adults. They will be fidgety, noisy, and childish.
- Start at home. Include your children in family devotions. Teach them to sit quietly for prayer. Practice sitting quietly in Mom or Dad’s lap for periods of time while reading the Bible or listening to someone teaching.
- Prepare your children to behave appropriately in church. Remind them that there are times to be still and quiet, like during the prayers, and times to stand up and sing with joy. You may want to explain your church’s beliefs about Communion or the Lord’s Supper, whether your child should take part or not.
- Teach them to sing. Even a child who can’t read yet can join in the singing if she knows the words. And it’s plain from the Bible that God is delighted to hear the voices of little children singing His praise!
- Help the children understand the message. You can whisper a simple explanation or draw illustrations to keep a child interested and learning. Curt and Sandra Lovelace’s book Children in Church has great examples how to do this.
- Be sensitive to other worshipers. Some people just aren’t used to normal background noises of children. Sit near a doorway and be ready to quietly remove a fussy child – if they calm down, you might be able to slip back in.
Don’t sell your kids short – if you make a habit of talking about the Lord and His Word at home, like it says in Deuteronomy 6, your kids will grow up with the knowledge and context that helps them understand a Sunday sermon and gain benefit that may surprise you. Go ahead, give it a try!
NEWS AND UPDATES * We’re speaking at the 2019 Virginia Homeschool Convention in Richmond, June 6-8, 2019. CLICK HERE for info about this huge event. * Our Come Away Weekend is a marriage retreat and couples getaway combined. Everything’s included for May 3-5 at beautiful St. Simons Island on the Georgia coast. CLICK HERE to find out more! * Would you like us to speak at your church, support group, conference or retreat? We are booking dates throughout 2019. CLICK HERE to let us know you’re interested!
The post Children in “Big Church” – MBLFP 218 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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