Homeschool Coffee Break

What if cultivating joy in your homeschool could be as simple as saying "good morning" with intention or creating one silly family tradition? In this conversation with Amber Smith (mom of 10!), we're exploring how gratitude practices transform not just your homeschool, but your relationships with your kids and your ability to handle the overwhelming seasons.From speaking life over a strong-willed child to filling your own tank when you feel depleted, Amber shares honest, practical wisdom that will help you step back and see the beautiful life you're actually building.In this episode:✅How cultivating joy through simple habits like "good morning" changes your family atmosphere✅The power of speaking life over difficult children instead of defeat✅Why remembering where you've come from creates gratitude in overwhelming seasons✅Practical gift-giving traditions that build thankfulness (including a hilarious "most beautiful of women" story!)✅How to find community and fill your tank when you're running on emptyReady to practice gratitude with your family? Grab the FREE 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge hyperlink mentioned in this episode and join hundreds of families starting November 1st!Recommended Resources:30 Days of Gratitude ChallengeGrand Prize GiveawayThe Six Keys to Your Successful Homeschool Year: Self-paced Course & Guided Journal. Book available on AmazonIn Due Season CoursesAmber Smith Amber Smith and her chef husband of 28 years raised ten wild children in southern Iowa. Her desire to help homeschool parents avoid burnout and build their best lives with strong relationships led her to start blogging at 200 Fingers & Toes. That is where you can find the latest articles, product reviews, and new In Due Season Homeschool Podcast episodes.Show Notes:Why Gratitude Can Give You PeaceWe are talking about a topic that I really think can slow you down and move you to a little bit of peace and joy, and a chance to maybe take that coffee break, or a bathroom break, or whatever you need to just get some peace. We are talking about gratitude today.My friend Amber Smith is here, and she's gonna be able to just bless you in your homeschool and in your family.Amber: I really enjoy getting to share with you and connect with the audience, and I'm looking forward to this 30 Days of Gratitude. I feel like it's such a good and important season to remind moms to just kind of step back and evaluate and assess kind of where we're at, and bring back an attitude of gratitude so we can kind of go forward into the holiday season realigned.Y'all, I'm gonna tell you right now, if Amber can focus on gratitude, and she has 10 kids, she calls herself 200 Fingers and Toes, then any homeschool family, any family at all, can take a step back and not get into the pressure.Meet Amber Smith: Homeschool Courage LenderAmber: One of the reasons why I started the blog was because so many people were hesitant to homeschool, and thought they weren't capable or equipped, and didn't have enough of X, Y, or Z. Really the main reason that I started sharing my story was because I wanted to show people that anybody could homeschool.Really, the desire to homeschool was the most important thing. Beyond that, it's just skills that you could learn. I was a high school dropout, I was involuntarily homeschooled for my last two years of high school. I got a job and took some classes at the community college.Coming forward as a homeschooling mom, I really didn't have a view of homeschooling and kind of had to find my own way. I have a heart for moms who are jumping into homeschooling and discovering it for themselves, and kind of making a roadmap for themselves that makes the most sense.I call myself a homeschool courage lender. I want to lend the courage to moms who are starting, so that they can get that for themselves, and then take that and start building homeschool that really fits them and is personalized to their life and family.We have 10 kids. I have graduated 7, and I have the last 3 at home right now. I am kind of on the downward slide. We're all down to high schoolers, and it's a very exciting time at our house, because I get to see the fruits of that, and I get to see the fruits of all of our children's lives, and how homeschooling has provided them with some skills.Cultivating Joy Must Be PracticedYou have made a comment that gratitude must be cultivated, nurtured, and practiced. What does that really look like in a real family life, especially when you have 10 children, or you still have those 3 at home?Amber: I was thinking back, what were the things I had to reset my brain to imagine me back at the table with 7 children, 7 and under, starting our first day of homeschool. Even that just makes my heart just so excited to see it was just an idea at the time, and we weren't really confident about what it was going to look like long-term in the future.One of those things that I think is so important about practicing gratitude is kind of looking at where you've come from and looking at what you have accomplished so far. I think so many times, we get to this certain place, and there's so many obligations and so many things we need to do, but sometimes it's just to sit back and be like, hey, you know what? This was the struggle we started with this year, and we really have come a long way, and we really have overcome that challenge.We kind of do yearly evaluations, and we talk about the skills that we want to build with our kids, or maybe character things that we want to address. At the end of the year, we go back over that list, and we see what we wanted to work on at the beginning of the year.Some years we've missed the mark completely, and we just put that on the list for next year. But oftentimes, as we go back and look at the things that we've wanted to learn or establish with our family, we can see that, oh wow, actually, we did make a lot of groundwork.The Power of Simple Daily HabitsOne of the things as a homeschooling mom is your job is never done. Never. The dishes will always be there, laundry will always be there, school will always need to be done. Without a finish line, I think it's really important to set some artificial places where we can stop and kind of evaluate what we've done personally.Amber: With our kids, a few really small ways we've established gratitude—I think it was a quote from Little House on the Prairie, but Pa said, good morning is one of the best words. I deeply feel that. Good morning is probably the most important thing that we can say to each other every day.That's just a tiny habit that we've established. When you wake up in the morning, when you see that first person, we greet each other, and we say good morning, and we usually give each other a hug. We're a huge I love you family, so we obnoxiously say I love you in our house, and we say it to our friends, and we say it to people's parents.That's just a habit that we've created, because we do love each other, and we want to acknowledge that. Taking the time to acknowledge the people in the room, taking the time to stop and say hello and how are you—those are little things that sometimes we just think are niceties, but actually they're establishing a heart that looks at other people and sees them.That is so good. When you started, you were talking about homeschooling just keeps continuing, sometimes you need to take a stop and look at what's happened. It made me think of the word remember, and it's a word in the Bible that's used over and over.God was telling the Israelites, remember when I did this, and remember this. Now, whenever I see it, I use colors in my Bible. I put an orange rectangle around it, and it just pops out. That idea is used over and over in the Bible, and I think we do need to remember all the good things that God has done.I also like that you didn't say, we failed in this. You said, we missed the mark, and I was like, what a great way to say, okay, we missed the mark, but we're going to keep moving forward.Gift-Giving Traditions That Build GratitudeLet's sort of take that gratitude. We're in the holidays, the Thanksgiving holiday, which is all about thanks. How do you use gift-giving and your family traditions to build gratitude during the holidays?Amber: The first holiday I thought of, was we actually have a tradition for Valentine's Day. I buy a little cup, and I fill it with candy, and we put them all around the table, but I always put a card and pens. I make all of the children write a little note, so each person has their name on the card, and then all of the other kids go around the table and just write a little message to their siblings, just what they love about them.I just think it's just one of those times—we can create different opportunities. I just felt like Valentine's Day is about love, and so it was a great opportunity to tell our siblings what we love about each other.Now my oldest daughter's married, and my son-in-law came over for Valentine's Day, and he got a card with all of the things that the kids love about him. About a month later, I went to their house, and it's on the fridge. Those are actually really meaningful things.I'm a words of affirmation person, and so sometimes maybe our gifts and our love languages we can use to kind of bring out things in other people. You can create your own holidays, you don't have to wait.Definitely at Thanksgiving, it's busy, and so I really try to create some intentional opportunities that we don't bypass and forget. We try to just create some times where we sit together, because the holiday I host, it's 30 people plus at our house.When She Forgot to Actually Give ThanksI know we had one Thanksgiving where everybody left, and I thought, oh my gosh, we did no actual Thanksgiving things. We just ate. We ate, and we visited, we played games, and we moved on, and I just remember feeling like a check in my spirit that I don't want to do this again. I don't want to miss the opportunity of having gratitude and sharing with each other what we value about each other and what we're thankful for.So we try to set a time that we can say what we're grateful for. For me, Christmas is really busy, and so the same thing kind of happens. We host, we have family come in, it's just a swamped, crazy house over here.Amber: I bought—I can't remember who it was—but they had a Christmas tree fold-out book that just did an Advent every day, and it was an ornament that you got out of the little book, and you hung up, and it had a little card. I just thought, I just need a crutch. I need something to help me become grateful. I need something to help me practice gratitude.I love how the Lord had the Israelites build pillars, and build remembrances, and build things that they physically saw in front of them to help remind them of that moment, and to help them be grateful for what happened. When they passed the river, they had them put the pillar of stone so they would remember their crossing and remember what God did.I think it's very on task to say, let's use tools that we have in front of us to help us be in the front of our mind about gratitude. If you find a devotional—the She Reads Truth had some kids cards that had a little Advent plan all the way to Christmas.Finding a tool that helps you be intentional, I think, is a great way to just help you all focus. The kids loved it, so if the kids like it, they will make you do it, and I think that's a great way to have your kids involved, because they will make you remember.Kids will remind you. When I was at my daughter's last January, she just had a baby, and I had the other two. She was at the hospital longer than was expected for various reasons. I was going through this devotional that I had given the kids.By the end of the week, they come home with the baby on Friday or Saturday, and the little 3-year-old at the time, he's like, GG, Bible book, Bible book, Bible book, because every day we were doing this little devotional. Even a 3-year-old, they're like, we've been doing this for 4 days, so get us going.You said something I think is really important, and that is you need crutches. I think crutches are not bad. You don't feel like, I'm not good enough, so I've got to use this other stuff. That's why God's given us a lot of different gifts, to be able to be intentional. Sometimes we have to think ahead, and then we need to choose what might help us the best.The "Most Beautiful of Women" StoryLet's talk about self-care and taking care of ourselves. If moms are struggling to sort of take care of themselves, or to just feel grateful about what God's doing in their life, what would you suggest to them? I know some of them are overwhelmed and not appreciated, and they got a lot going on.Amber: First of all, I thought of a funny memory. I had a period of time where I am a words of affirmation mother, and I felt very empty in the gas tank. I had 7 little ones, and just a high-intensity need life. I just felt like I was not getting enough positive words fed back to me.So I made a rule that the oldest boys, whenever they answered me, they had to say, yes, mother, most beautiful of women.It was hilarious. It went on for a year. For a year, every time I said, boys, go do this, yes, mother, most beautiful of women. I tell you what, it was kind of a joke, but it filled my tank, and it made me—it just really did. It filled my heart.Sometimes a silly game—sometimes just take the stress and anxiety and horribleness out of it, and just try to be fun, and create some silly ways that you can maybe communicate things that you need to hear, or that your kid needs to hear.It was very funny, but it was at a really hard time in life for me, and I really needed positive words. It was such a great season that the kids answered me that way, and they would do it at church, they would do it at the store. It was very, very entertaining, and it just became a fun little habit. Sometimes you can be creative, and you can fill your own tank in ways that maybe just are silly and cute.Building Community That Fills Your TankAmber: I have a book, Six Keys to Your Homeschooling Success, and one of the chapters is about community, and building community. I really think that in seasons where we are the sole person at home with our kids, and carrying the responsibility of homeschooling, we need support.It's really, really important to find people that are maybe in your same life area, people that you can talk to, and people that can support you, and also people who can reflect back to you the same situations or what's going on.I have probably changed friends groups 3 times. My early friends who had kids that were my oldest kids' ages stopped having kids. Then we kind of outgrew those friendships, because then I had a whole bunch of little kids again, so we made some new friends.Each time that we have come to a place where I had a different set of needs, and I had a different set of situations that I was dealing with—when I moved to having high schoolers, our church had closed. We really forcibly lost our community because we were a very rural church, and so when it closed, all of those people lived 70 miles outside of our circle.I remember hitting a place where it was about a year that we didn't go to church because we were kind of in a place where we weren't sure where we wanted to go. I remember just telling my husband, I need people. I'm gonna find somewhere, because I have high schoolers, I am in the middle of just all of these things, and I need support.I think it's really good for us to kind of maybe evaluate and say, where do I need support? If that's joining a women's group, if that's getting involved in your church community, if that's joining a homeschool co-op, wherever it is that you can maybe find a place that fills your tank.Even if that's something outside. I started blogging and writing because that was one of the things I really wanted to do. I wanted to be a writer when I grow up. Working with other writers and bloggers—something that filled my tank so that then when I had to give out and homeschool and do all those things, I had some things that I looked forward to.In whatever capacity that is, looking at somewhere that fills your tank and can kind of give back to you, but I think in building community, it's one of the best places where you can get human interaction that feeds your soul and fills you up.I love that story with your kids. We should have fun together as a family. You do need to fill your tank. I also think sometimes when I write down things that I'm grateful for, that actually lowers my stress and gives me peace and joy, because it's like, get your mind off your problems and get it on to God.Laughing and having fun together—when you just have that really deep belly laugh, it just feels so good. Find ways to add some fun to your family, even if you're a really serious, somber person. Everyone needs to laugh as well.We do have different seasons of life. You might need to find some new people. You want to find people that will encourage you in your season of wherever you are right now.Speaking Life Over Strong-Willed ChildrenI know you also mentioned how gratitude changed your relationships with your kids. Is there anything that you could say about gratitude, about how maybe it changed your marriage, your relationships with your kids, or maybe even the way that you homeschooled?Amber: One of the ways that gratitude has really helped me in my relationship with my kids—I am not a controlling person, and I'm a pretty mellow, even-keeled person. I have some intensely control-oriented children. That can be a conflict, and it can be really hard.There are personality things that we have to resolve as homeschooling mothers that can feel all-consuming, and can feel really difficult. I remember going through a really difficult time with my oldest daughter. It was hard, and her personality is very different than mine, and it can feel personal.When you're dealing with a child who just doesn't think like you think, and maybe challenges you and your parenting, it can feel like they're out to hurt you. That's just because our mother hearts are tender. We want to love our kids, we want to do best by them, and so when things are hard, that can be really difficult.I remember going to my best friend, and I was just complaining. I just needed somebody to hear me. I remember she just kind of called me out, and said, hey, you know what? I'm hearing the words that you're saying about your daughter, and what a brave, beautiful friend to say this. She just said, I think that you should really think about the words that you're speaking, and maybe look at that and see if you could speak life over your situation.For half a second, I was deeply offended, because your friend should hear you, and should hear your heart, and let you complain, but you know what? God bless that she loved me so much that she called my attention to that. I was being really negative, and in my negativity, I was being defeated about that situation. I was really giving up my power and claiming that I was powerless.In that check that she gave me, I really became intentional and started to speak life over my daughter. Even though she was very strong-willed, I just said, you know what? God made this child this strong-willed. That means that he has a purpose for her that is so great that she needs all of this tenacity to be able to accomplish that.If I destroy that, she will never be able to do what God has called her to do. My job as her mother and the person who's helping her hone these skills and talents is to help her use this power well. I started being like, I'm a partner with God in helping this child create her purpose.I just started to speak life over her, and I think that is gratitude. When we can look at a situation and step back and call out what is true and what is real, because we know who God created us to be, we know who God called our children to be, and speak life.That was just one of the ways, and that really was a turning point in our relationship. As I began speaking life over her, we went from screaming at each other in the living room. It was a hard season. Now, she's 25, and I will say that child is my best friend.All of her siblings are kind of shocked that we are so closely knit together, but we did the work. We worked really hard on our relationship, and really worked on being grateful and kind and forgiving and grace-filled to one another, even in difficult situations.Sometimes stepping outside of what you see and just shaping your view of your family, your view of your situation—sometimes husbands can be frustrating. They live in a different world, and they come home with different mindsets and different things that they've got on their mind, and so we can battle, but also we can step back, and we can be like, you know what, I'm so thankful for the things that my husband does so that I can be here in this place and in this position I am now. We're a team.I think gratitude kind of puts us back on the same level again and gives us a heart where, hey, we're equals in this place. Sometimes my husband and I will sit in bed at night, and we just talk about when we first met, or the funny things that brought us together. I think that's one of the ways that we practice gratitude, is by remembering all of the ways we've succeeded, and all of the hard things we've gone through.I think it's important in our relationships to remember the struggles and the difficulties and the overcoming, so that we can get back to this place where our hearts are knit together and we're on the same team.The Power of WordsWords are so important. Words can cut you down, but they can build you up. Too often, I can get really negative and start saying things, even about—I love my children, but they could do something that sort of grinds on me.I have a statistic—something like, kids hear 300-something negative words a day and 17 positive. That applies to probably our marriages, our kids. We need to—you don't do false positive words. You don't just say good things to say them. You need to speak truth to them and speak life.Words are so effective, and even if they aren't acting like it, you can speak the truth of who they are. Like, you're a strong-willed child. God's got things in her life that she's got to be strong. My mom would have told you I'm a strong-willed child, too, and my husband would say I was stubborn.Yet, that stubbornness can be used to be faithful for years and years and years, despite bad things going on in our family and our lives. Use even things that grind on you—speak life to them, and really focus on speaking truth, and building them up, and noticing. You gotta pay attention to when they're actually doing something that you can praise them for as well.The other word you used was forgiveness. We were talking about this at Bible study, because we were going through Ephesians 5 on husbands and wives. We need to forgive, and they're going to get on our nerves. Forgive and go on and let God take care of that. He's the only one that can change anyone.Six Keys to Homeschooling SuccessYou mentioned your book, Six Keys to Homeschooling Success. Can you tell people a little bit more about that, and where they could get it if they're interested?Amber: Actually, it started off as a course, and so I have a full course online that basically helps parents build their own roadmap, because I think so many people are trying to fit themselves into homeschooling, and trying to fit a model or the school.I think if we step back and really ask some deeper questions, we can personalize our homeschool to fit, A, our goals, but B, our kids' needs the best way. It started as a course, but then I thought, you know what, I need this to be accessible to people in a broader sense.We took it to Kindle KDP, and now it's available on Amazon as well. It's the 6 Keys to Your Successful Homeschool Year. I just wanted every parent to have access to ask the right questions before they start.It's just a course and a guided journal in the back, and it asks questions each week. As you answer those questions, you build a roadmap for you. I remember reading online, somebody asked the question, hey, I'm in a homeschool, what curriculum should I use?I just thought, that is a crazy question. Anybody who answers that question to you right now is doing you a disservice. There are a whole bunch of questions that we should ask before that, so that you know exactly what you want.I think if we could help parents ask better questions, then they know exactly what they're looking for, and I want people to start their homeschool year knowing exactly what they're looking for and what they want to accomplish.I have a ton of articles and things, 200 Fingers and Toes, because I had 200 fingers and toes to clean up after for a lot of years. One thing that people always remembered about me was that I had 10 kids, so I thought, I'm gonna capitalize on this.The blog is 200 Fingers and Toes, and there we have probably 300 articles that are reviews, devotionals, curriculum ideas, and just life situations that we've shared about what our homeschool looks like, and maybe problems that we've overcome. You can search by topic, you can search by questions. We've done graduations and college prep, and just lots of things that we've covered over all the years that we've been homeschooling. Just a resource to get information and answer questions.You make a good point, because you need to do what's best for your family, not the family next door. Amber has 10 kids. Maybe you live in downtown Chicago and have one kid in a high-rise. Your homeschool will definitely look different than Amber's.For you to say, what's the best third grade curriculum, you need to use some of these questions that Amber is providing for you, because you need to find out what's best for you, your children, your family in this season of time, and it may change.

What if gratitude could actually make you more beautiful from the inside out? In this conversation with Meredith Curtis, we're exploring the transformative power of cultivating gratitude in your homeschool family—and how thanksgiving changes not just your heart, but your entire countenance and home atmosphere.From Thanksgiving traditions that knit families together to miracle stories of God's provision, Meredith shares decades of wisdom on raising grateful children who focus on Jesus instead of consumerism.In this episode:✅How cultivating gratitude transforms you into a more beautiful person (yes, really!)✅Simple Thanksgiving traditions that build faith and family unity✅The crab legs miracle story that reminds us nothing is impossible with God✅Practical activities for the holiday season that shift focus from presents to Jesus✅Why serving others creates grateful hearts in your childrenReady to make gratitude a daily practice? Grab the free 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge mentioned in this episode and join hundreds of families started November 1st!Recommended Resources:30 Days of Gratitude ChallengeGrand Prize GiveawayGod's Girls Beauty Secrets Bible StudyCelebrate ThanksgivingJesus, Fill My Heart & Home Bible StudyChristmas Unit StudiesMeredith "GrandMerey" Curtis, mom of 5 homeschool grads and grandmother of 8, writes, speaks, leads worship, and loves celebrating God's goodness at every opportunity possible, believing that gratitude is the secret to joy. She enjoys creating homeschool curriculum and Bible studies for Christian families, as well as writing Maggie King Mysteries, wholesome cozies. Find her at PowerlineProd.com, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.Show Notes:The Beauty Secret That Changes EverythingMeredith Curtis is here with me today, and we're talking about gratitude. Meredith, y'all know I run the 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge, and I get guest bloggers to come in and post on our blog. I think Meredith has done it every single year I've ever done this. I know that's your heart. I know that's my heart. Gratitude just can do so many things for us.Meredith is a homeschooling mom who graduated her 5 children. Now she's grandmother to 8, so far, and all of them homeschool. She's a pastor's wife, a worship leader, a writer, a speaker, and she loves ministering to homeschool families. She's created a lot of curriculum, and she just started a mystery series called Maggie King Mysteries.Gratitude as a Beauty SecretMeredith, you have actually talked about gratitude as being a beauty secret. Can you sort of explain what you mean by that, and how you've seen gratitude actually transform someone from the inside?Meredith: I've always believed this, and I remember my grandmother used to say to me, beauty is as beauty does. When I was a young woman, teenager, young adult, young wife, I wanted to be beautiful on the inside. From my grandmother, I grasped that principle that beauty on the inside flows to the outside.One of the passages that really stood out to me was 1 Peter 3:1-7, and how God commends Sarah as a beautiful woman because of her gentle and quiet spirit. That got me on the road to thinking about beauty. I actually have a Bible study called God's Girls Beauty Secrets.When you're kind, when you're grateful, it changes your heart. Gratitude changes your focus from self to the Lord. Kindness changes your focus from self to others. When you're grateful and you walk into a home, or you walk into work, or you walk into your homeschool co-op or church, and you're having a conversation with people, it changes the expression on your face.You have more of a smile, you don't have those frowny frown lines. You have a beauty that emanates from you, and I think people want to be around you when you're like that. They want to be around people that are grateful, because it's gonna be raising them up rather than pulling them down.I'm a pastor's wife, and I see all the terrible things that happen to people. Mike and I have gone through so many trials. I think that sometimes the Lord just has to remind me, be grateful, be grateful, be grateful. When I am grateful, I notice the way people respond to me is very different than when I'm complaining and bitter.Beauty isn't just about a symmetrical face. Beauty goes so much beyond that, because it's your poise, it's your confidence. A truly beautiful woman walks into a room, and she's like, God is good, I'm so happy to see all of you, and her focus is completely on other people. That is beautiful.The Physical Impact of Bitterness vs. GratitudeYou know, as you're saying that, I do believe that however you're thinking on the inside is going to come out in your facial expressions, in your gestures, the way that you hold yourself. I also think, unfortunately, the opposite is true. Someone who is bitter—I have friends that are still holding bitterness towards people, and they're the ones that are in the hospital all the time. They've got illness, like, physical illnesses.Bitterness in your heart can actually mess up your insides. But the opposite of bitterness—you're forgiving, and you're grateful, and you're thankful, and you're kind—and that person, I think, God just blesses. When you have that attitude, people are like, oh, I want to be around them. Who wants to be around someone that's just complaining all the time?Passing Down Gratitude to GrandchildrenLet's talk about your grandchildren. Are there some things that you have been doing, or are doing, to pass down these values of gratitude and of your faith as well? Do you have any traditions that you're really cultivating a spirit of gratitude?Meredith: With Thanksgiving coming up this month, the first one I think of is we have a Thanksgiving tradition where before we say the blessing, we all pass around—sometimes I pass around kernels of corn, there's like this Thanksgiving poem about kernels of corn—or sometimes we just share things that we're thankful for.That is really powerful, because there's always tears. There's always something that's bittersweet, where someone's gone through something hard, and yet they're thankful for the things God did through it, or the people that helped them through it. There's just so much knitting together of family as people are thanking one another.Another thing I do with my grandchildren specifically: whenever they come over, I always ask them, what was the best thing that happened today? And then I always say to them, isn't God good? And then they say, yes, he is so good. That's not necessarily a tradition, but it's a habit that I've purposely cultivated with them to focus on the positive and be grateful.That's so interesting. When I'm with my grandkids, especially if I'm taking care of them and their parents are gone somewhere, and we're getting ready for bed, especially when they're younger, like 5 and under, I'm like, okay, we're gonna pray before we go to bed. I want you to think of one thing that you can say thank you to God for.That way, I'm like, we're gonna think. The only thing you have to say is, thank you, God. It does sort of make them think, well, what did happen? What can I be thankful for? That's such a simple way to say thank you, and it's thank you to God for whatever had happened.The Birthday Tradition That Honors PeopleMeredith: On birthdays, we always go around and talk about why we're thankful for the birthday person. Everybody shares, like, I'm so thankful for you because I love the way you do this, I love the way you do that, I appreciate it. My kids have carried it on, so at Cooper, my grandson just turned 9, and we were at the birthday party.They always start all their family birthday parties with just the mom or dad saying what they're thankful for, with all the kids there. They do it with all the kids' friends there. I think not only is it a blessing to the other children, but it's a blessing to the parents that are there.We do that a lot in our church, too, with people on a birthday. I noticed Paul does that in his letters. He'll say, I so appreciate you because of this and this and this. I was talking to someone the other day, and I was like, Paul wrote to the Corinthians, who were the squirreliest church in all of the New Testament, and he starts out thanking the Lord for them. There is no one we can't find something to be thankful for.You know, that's really important, too, because I have heard people say they're in a really difficult marriage, and they're just like, there's nothing good about my husband, there's nothing good. And I'm like, does he go to work every day for your family? Okay, there's one thing. Do you have a house that you live in? There's always, even in the most difficult situations, you can find something to be thankful for.When Gratitude Shifts the AtmosphereIs there anything else? Maybe you're walking through a difficult situation at your home. Has there ever been a time where gratitude sort of shifted the atmosphere during that difficult situation?Meredith: My husband right now is battling cancer, and it's been really hard on my kids. The Lord has been really good, but one of the things that I notice is talking with one of my children, and we'll both be talking about dad, and then we'll both kind of sniff, you know, like, suck back the tears, and then we'll just talk about what we're grateful for, like, what the Lord has done.There's just so much that God always has done. I think because of that psalm that says, enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise—I always start with thanking God. Sometimes when I wake up in the morning, I just lay there and start thanking God. I've trained my children to try to find something to be thankful for, so even in the most difficult situations.The Miracle of Crab Legs and Strawberry CakeI remember years ago, this is over a decade ago, we didn't have money. We had enough money to pay some bills, but not all. The whole family, we got in the family room, and we got on our knees, and we were praying. We were desperate for God to come through, but yet our prayers were so filled with thankfulness.We were thanking Him for all the times in the past that He had provided. I remember when we got up as family from our knees, we were fully, fully confident God was gonna come through. I remember Jenny Rose saying, well, I just wonder how God is gonna take care of this. I know He will.There's no testimony without a trial. Sometimes in the middle of a trial, when you can even just thank the Lord—I thank you that there's going to be a testimony in this.One story I can tell you that has to do with thankfulness: my niece came to visit one summer. This is when Mike was in seminary. We had no money. I would make hair bows and sell them, and that was our grocery money. My niece was there, it was her birthday.I said, what would you like for your birthday? And then I thought, wow, why am I asking her this? She said, I would like a strawberry cake with vanilla frosting, and I would like crab legs.I took her hand, and I prayed with her this really simple prayer. She wasn't a believer at the time. I said, Lord, thank you that you're the God who provides, and you hear this little girl what she wants, and I pray that somehow you would do a miracle and provide for that. I was not necessarily full of faith. About 5 minutes later, I was kind of like, what have I done?We had this food pantry, and they would have, like, you could pay a dollar, and you could get a bag full of groceries. That day, never before and never again, they had a strawberry cake mix and a vanilla frosting. We brought it home, I made the cake.It was getting close to dinner, so I thought, okay, I'm just gonna have to tell her, sometimes God says no. We get a knock at the door, and our pastor comes in with a grocery bag, about 4 feet high, filled with crab legs. Can you take these off our hands?I just remember saying, nothing is impossible with God. That filled our hearts with so much thanksgiving, and believe it or not, almost every time we face a difficult situation, we remember that story. God has probably been thanked for that story by my kids that weren't even alive then.When we pray boldly and see God answer, it builds a thankful heart in us even more. When we see God move, it helps us when we face difficult circumstances, because then there's a groundwork that, yes, God is good.Building Faith Through GratitudeJust the fact that y'all—I think it's growing thankfulness with our kids, but also their faith. When they see things like that, they do want to be thankful and continue to look back at that, but that is just another little step of building their faith that, look, God came through for us.It's really important, personally, keeping a gratitude journal. If I had to do it over again, I would keep a family gratitude journal. That way, you can record the things your kids are saying, and when bad things happen, you pull that thing out and read some of them.God wants us to record what He's done, and to be able to remember. Sometimes it's just verbally saying it, but sometimes we forget what He's done. The other idea is that we really believe in miracles. Sometimes we don't ask, because we don't think he's going to come through, and yet you just shared stories. He came through!Practical Activities for the Holiday SeasonWe're going to be sort of in that Thanksgiving-Christmas season. Do you have any practical activities that parents could do, families could do, to really build a habit of gratitude in the hustle and bustle? How can we be intentional during these holiday seasons to build that habit of gratitude in our kids?Meredith: First of all, the 30-day gratitude Challenge. That is a great one. I love that it's geared for children and for teens.The thing that I talked about earlier of going around before Thanksgiving dinner and sharing things that you're thankful for. As we were talking, I just thought, you know what I'm gonna do for our church is put a post at the top of our Facebook group, and just put the word gratitude, and I'm just gonna ask people, would all this month, when things happen, will you just post under that things that the Lord did to come through, or answers to prayer?What I used to do when the kids were little at Thanksgiving is I would put up a poster. Sometimes I did an answered prayer poster, I would write answered prayer, and then I would make columns, and then as God answered prayers, we could list the prayers. Or other times it was just what I'm thankful for.There's a craft that I've done, a thankful tree, where you make leaves and write something you're thankful for and glue that on.Serving Others Creates Grateful HeartsI also think just serving others gives us a grateful heart. There's one thing that it's almost the time will almost be up to turn them in, but it's the Shoebox Franklin Graham's ministry. When the grandkids were really little, like 2 and 3, the oldest ones are 9 and 10, I would take them to the Dollar Tree, and they could fill the box, and then I would just purchase everything, and we would wrap it up, and they would write a note.That just instills thankfulness. It could be serving at a soup kitchen. One year, I remember we adopted a poor family, and I remember it was a really dilapidated part of town, and we climbed up these rickety steps to the apartment on the second floor and delivered presents. I remember my kids, on the way home, they were thinking, wow, we're so blessed. When you see other people struggling, you realize how blessed you are.Christmas Carols and Focusing on JesusAnother thing that we do is we sing Christmas carols and have devotions all through December. On Christmas Day, we have these super long devotions. It's basically Luke 2, with a Christmas carol after every verse. We always sing, like, 3 or 4 verses, so it takes us, like, an hour. Then we sing happy birthday to Jesus.What that has to do with thankfulness is it sets the tone that Christmas isn't about presents. Christmas is a birthday, it's about a king, it's a king's birthday. We're gonna make the main focus of this day, Jesus. When you focus on Jesus, even the fact that he came in the Roman Empire, which was so evil—we think times are evil now, but the Roman Empire was so evil.He was born to a poor family, and he lived a perfect life, and how many times did they try to kill him? Finally, he let them take his life, and he died for sins, and he rose again. The more that we can gaze on that as families, in ways that are fun and relaxing and filled with love, the more children can gaze on Christ, the more they will be thankful.I think Christmas carols—there's something so powerful about the words to Christmas carols, especially if you go beyond verse 1. Even the song, God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen, there's, like, 8 or 9 verses, and every one of them is powerful. I think that there's something about the theology in them and the old hymns, too, but especially at Christmas time, the carols. Focusing on Jesus creates a thankful heart, too. Above all.Oh gosh, it's been 10 or 15 years ago, we were singing O Come All Ye Faithful, and we were singing the third verse. There's a line in there, God of God and Light of Light. We were studying the Roman Empire after Jesus' time period, but the church was growing in our history. Athanasius was standing up to say, no, Jesus was actually God. He was on the run because they wanted to kill this man.That phrase in that O Come All You Faithful verse, God of God and Light of Lights, was exactly what they were saying back in history at that time. We need to expose our kids to the verses. Pick one Christmas carol each year, and just sing it all the time. Go into the verses, use it for copywork, talk about what that means at the dinner table.Serving others—we did the same thing. Steve was head of the Benevolence Fund, and he would pick one of the families that really needed help. We'd go buy a turkey dinner for them with all the fixings for four or five people. The first time I did it, I was at the store, and I was like, they've got kids. We should get some Christmas gifts for them.We did that for 10 or 15 years, and would take it to a family that didn't have much. It really puts your kids in—it gives perspective to what is going on around us. Too often, we see the people that seem to have more than us, and we don't always see the people that have less than us.Resources From MeredithIf people want to reach out to you, Meredith, what would be the best way to find out more about you?Meredith: I do have two resources that I think people would enjoy. One is called Celebrate Thanksgiving, and it has hymns and prayers and poems. It has the entire story of the pilgrims in it from going to Holland, and then coming back, and then going to the New World.It has a lot of different Thanksgiving things, like the Macy's Parade. Then it talks about how to plan Thanksgiving festivities, like a pie breakfast or a praise and prayer brunch, or the big traditional family dinner, or a family football game. It's got a lot of different social things that you can plan. Some are really simple, some are more challenging, and then planner sheets to do it.The other book is called Jesus Fill My Heart and Home, and it's a Bible study. It talks about, first of all, letting Jesus live and abide in our hearts. Then it talks about how to bring the presence of God into your home in a really practical way. It touches on cleaning and all kinds of aspects of homemaking, but it does have a great chapter on holidays.It goes through the different holidays and how to celebrate holidays with a Christ-centered focus. Those are available at PowerlineProd.com. I have a store, lots of resources, lots of curriculum, lots of high school classes, and Christmas unit studies.I also have a blog on the site, PowerlineProd.com, and if you go there, there's links to our Facebook group, Powerline Productions. You can find me on Instagram, Twitter, and everything else from there. I'd love to hear from you.Final EncouragementAs we close out, is there anything that you would like to leave our audience with?Meredith: Yes, I would like to say this. Life is hard. I'm sure some of you listening are going through challenges, maybe challenges with homeschooling your kids, maybe grown children who've wandered from the faith, maybe health challenges.Jesus promised—the least favorite promise in all of the New Testament is, in this world, you will have trouble. But it doesn't stop there. It goes on and it says, take heart, because I have overcome the world.I just want to remind you that Jesus has overcome the world, that He is for you, not against you, and that if you put your hope in Him and your trust in Him, He will pour out grace and provision for everything you go through in this life. He will open your eyes to see so much beauty, and so many blessings, and so many people who end up coming in and just wrapping their arms around you and loving you that you don't expect.Draw near to Him, He will draw near to you, and eventually, one day, if you know Him and are born again, you will be with Him in heaven forever. It starts with just opening your eyes and being grateful, but there is so much more.Ready to transform your home with thanksgiving? Sign up for the free 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge at HowToHomeschoolMyChild.com/gratitudechallenge. Join hundreds of families cultivating gratitude together starting November 1st!

What if 5 minutes could completely shift your perspective from overwhelm to peace? In this episode, we're diving into powerful gratitude examples from history and my own life that prove thanksgiving isn't just feel-good advice—it actually changes your brain, your home atmosphere, and your children's mental health.From Abraham Lincoln declaring Thanksgiving during the Civil War to Corrie ten Boom thanking God for fleas in a concentration camp, you'll discover how gratitude transforms even the hardest circumstances into blessings.In this episode:✅2 practical activities you can do to go from complaining to gratitude✅3 real gratitude examples that prove thankfulness changes everything✅The 5-minute kitchen table practice that pulled me out of a breakdown and into peace✅Scientific proof that gratitude increases joy, decreases anxiety, and improves sleep✅How to raise grateful kids who are more satisfied, happier, and mentally healthier✅Daily thankfulness practices you can start today to shift your family's atmosphere from complaining to contentmentReady to transform your home with thankfulness? Grab the free 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge mentioned in this episode and join hundreds of moms starting November 1st!Show NotesWhen Complaining Takes Over Your MorningIt's Tuesday morning. You get up, you get breakfast ready, and your kids come in complaining, complaining, complaining. All of a sudden, someone spilled their milk, and the phone is buzzing, and before you realize it, you are mentally listing everything that's wrong.I'm going to share a way to flip the switch in your head and get back into a place of peace, a place of gratitude. Today, we are talking about changing complaining to thankfulness, to gratitude. I'm going to be giving you several gratitude examples along the way.Abraham Lincoln's Example During America's Darkest HourLet's start with Abraham Lincoln. Back in 1863, the war between the states was tearing America apart. Families were divided, thousands were dying, no one knew what the future held. And President Lincoln declared a National Day of Thanksgiving.He knew that the attitude of thanksgiving could actually change our country. He wrote, "Year filled with blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies, gracious gifts of Most High God." He was looking to God to say, even though everything around us is falling apart, we are gonna look up, and we are going to say thank you to God.So when everything in your life feels chaotic, you can still choose to focus on God's goodness.The Kitchen Table That Changed EverythingSeveral years ago, I was having a mental-emotional breakdown. In our house, I was walking back and forth, just reeling out in my head all the things I wanted to tell all the people that were giving me a hard time.And all of a sudden, I was like, stop, Kerry. Just stop. I went to the kitchen table, I just grabbed a piece of regular notebook paper, and I started writing down anything I could think of to be thankful for. It could have been a blue sky outside, a hot cup of coffee, I don't know. But I went and just wrote everything down.Got all the way down the list, and even got to the top, and started a second column. Almost to the bottom, I quit thinking about the things that God had given me, things to be thankful for, and I started to write down things about God. I started to praise Him for who He was in my life.By the time I finished that list, peace came over me. There was joy in my heart, because I knew that God was taking care of me, and it really didn't matter about all the craziness.Recognizing the Enemy's AttackMaybe your marriage is falling apart. Maybe you're rejected by your friends, or your mother-in-law's giving you a hard time. Maybe you're just totally overwhelmed, because you got 5 kids under the age of 7, and you're trying to homeschool a few of them.That is the enemy attacking you, and you can change that overwhelmed, rejected attitude to something positive. You need to realize that the negative voice and all those bad things is not yours. It is the enemy attack. He is trying to get you to think about you, your circumstances, instead of God and trusting in a faithful God.It only took me about 5 minutes, my perspective changed, and my heart and soul changed as well. My self-pity changed to praising God for His faithfulness, His character, and His provision that's always there.The Science Behind GratitudeI've been keeping a gratitude journal since about 2010 or 2011. This is actually my second gratitude journal. I actually hit 10,000 items earlier this year, and I know that keeping that journal changes the way I think.It's not just God saying this, which is all that really matters, but there is scientific evidence that gratitude and thankfulness changes the way we think. Research shows that gratitude increases our joy and our contentment. It decreases our anxiety and our depression. It even helps you sleep better and gives you a stronger immune system.If you are stressed out, I highly recommend that every day, you start a gratitude journal.Corrie ten Boom's Gratitude Example: Even for FleasLet's talk about Corrie ten Boom in the middle of World War II. Her family housed Jews up in the attic, and eventually they got caught. Corrie and her sister Betsy were sent to Ravensbrook, one of the worst concentration camps in World War II.The barracks were overcrowded, they were cold, and there were fleas everywhere. Her sister insisted, we have got to thank God for everything, even the fleas. Well, Corrie thought she had lost her mind. Seriously? You want me to say thank you for fleas?Let me tell you, those fleas were a blessing from God. They discovered that those fleas kept the guards away and gave Corrie and Betsy time to share Jesus, to share things about the Bible, to have prayer meetings in their little barracks, without any interruption. Those guards didn't want you talking about God, but they were staying far away from the fleas.Betsy knew something: We can thank God for even the hard times.Finding Blessings in Your Hardest CircumstancesIt's hard to say thank you that someone rejected me, or thank you that I have a child that's not walking with God. You're not thanking Him for that, but we can say, God, thank you for your faithfulness in the midst of this situation.The things that we complain about the most are sometimes blessings in disguise. God uses anything for our good. Over 9 years ago, my husband left, and I would never wish this on anyone. It has been the hardest thing I have ever walked through in my life.But I remember about 2 years ago, I was sitting with my dad, and I said, Dad, I would never wish this on anyone, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I am closer to God than I have ever been.That rejection, that hard time, the suffering, the trials that I continue to walk through—when you change your attitude to gratitude, it can sometimes become a blessing, and it is a true blessing.Raising Grateful KidsWhat about my kids? My kids were complaining, everything's falling apart. If you can raise grateful kids, then they will be more satisfied with their life, they will have happier emotions, and they will actually have better mental health.The key is you, Mom. When you are more grateful, your children will express more gratitude. Steve and I said thank you to our kids all the time, and we told our kids to say thank you when they're young. Now, as they grew up, they just naturally said it.I've had parents say, Hunter or Gentry or Ashley, they're the only ones that said thank you for the meal when they came over. That was because we modeled it, and it became a part of who they are in their mind and in their heart.It's not just changing their attitude for today, it's modeling a life skill for children for the rest of their lives.How Gratitude Activates the BrainWhen you are thankful for things, you activate dopamine. Dopamine is that happiness neurotransmitter. As we are grateful, it will happen to us, and as we model it for our kids, it will happen to the kids.Let's face it, it is biblical as well. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God." It is not an option. God's will is for you and me to give thanks.Teaching gratitude to our kids moves them from being entitled to a heart focused on Jesus.George Washington Carver's Daily PracticeGeorge Washington Carver grew up born into slavery in 1864. He was orphaned as an infant, he had a chronic illness, he was denied an education, and yet he grew up to be a celebrated scientist and inventor.He had a daily practice. He would walk in the woods at dawn, and he would look for little bitty things in the woods to say thank you to God. He said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station through which God speaks."When I go for a walk and I hear the birds sing, I'm like, oh, thank you, God. When I walk outside and see a beautiful sunset or sunrise, thank you, God. When I see green leaves on the tree, thank you, God.Do you make it a practice to say thank you all day long? Gratitude in the simple things leads to extraordinary discoveries.Gratitude Is a ChoiceListen, if you're multitasking, come back to me. Gratitude does not require perfect circumstances. It's a choice that opens our eyes to the possibilities of what is out there.Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude DailyI suggest daily thank God for at least one thing in your life, or your family, or your kids. Your family and kids should start to participate. Model your attitude of gratitude, and let them see that you keep a gratitude journal. Rest in God—He is always in control, no matter what your circumstances are.Find something that you already do every day. Like, we ate meals together. So maybe you keep all the gratitude challenges at the meal table, and after breakfast, lunch, or dinner, everyone writes one thing down that they are thankful for.Maybe it's during your morning time, basket time, whatever that family time is. It only takes—it didn't even take 5 minutes sometimes. Each person can share what they're thankful for, and you can write that down.With preschoolers, you can use prompts, and they can just tell it to you, you can write it down. Maybe if they're able to draw a picture, they just keep a little notebook of everything that they're thankful for. As they get older, they can actually write words.With older kids, I would encourage them to write at least 3 things daily. That changes the neurons in your head and the way you think, because you are changing from negative, complaining thinking to positive, thankful thinking.Anchor Your Practice in ScriptureChoose one Bible verse about thanksgiving and practice it all of November. You could use 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God." Simple.Practice it at the dinner table every single night. Say it together, let them take turns saying it, whatever the verse is. This will anchor your gratitude practice, your gratitude actions in God's Word.It also teaches our kids to focus on Jesus and what He's doing, not just positive thinking. This isn't all about positive thinking. This is about following God, because we know that Jesus and the Holy Spirit is what can change what's inside.Start Today, Not When Crisis HitsDon't wait for crisis, like I did that time, to start practicing gratitude. Start it right now. You don't need perfect circumstances, you just need to start!Go get the free 30 Days of Gratitude Challenge. We're gonna start as a group on November 1st. You can start whenever you would like. You'll get free printables for the whole family, daily blog posts—I have 30 blog posts coming out in November. Some of them are crafts, some of them are activities, some of them are about the history of Thanksgiving, some of them are about being thankful in hard times.This is a proven strategy to shift your family's atmosphere, home atmosphere, and your kids' minds, and yours. You'll have a community of moms doing this together as well.Sign up now at HowToHomeschoolMyChild.com/gratitudechallenge. Choose gratitude together this November. Show your kids your thankful heart, and how it changes everything, and you can create a peaceful home that you deserve.

What if Christmas wasn't about doing more, but learning how to be more present with your family? In this episode, we're diving into why holiday perfection is stealing your joy and how you can shift from chaos to connection this season.We're talking about practical ways to focus on what really matters—faith, family, and freedom from the pressure to do everything perfectly. You'll discover how to choose meaningful traditions over Pinterest-perfect moments, and how to prepare your heart during Advent so you can actually enjoy Christmas morning.In this episode you will learn:✅Why scrolling social media makes you feel behind and stressed✅How to shift from perfection to presence during the holidays✅3 keys to a more peaceful Christmas✅Simple ways to create meaningful traditions your kids will actually remember✅How to use Advent to prepare your heart, not just check off a to-do listReady to make this your most peaceful Christmas yet? Grab the Christmas Celebration Bundle mentioned in this episode at HowToHomeschoolmychild.com/ChristmasbundleShow Notes:How to Be More Present This Christmas (Without the Holiday Stress)Hey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop stress so you can take a coffee break. Let me tell you, the topic we're talking about today can stress you out, but I'm here to give you some ideas and some solutions.Yes, you can see the background, it's one of my first episodes for this Christmas season, and I think it's really important to figure out what happens when you let go of holiday perfection. What if Christmas wasn't about doing more, but being more present?The Pressure of Holiday PerfectionYou know, I used to try to make everything, well, back in the day, magazine perfect. Y'all are dealing with making everything Pinterest perfect, or Instagram perfect. I used to get a magazine, Southern Living. Actually, I got a whole two rows of them, old copies, and Southern Living had always, around November, December, they'd have an article about decorating the tree, and having the perfect little snacks, and everything was just perfect.Only, anytime I tried that, it didn't work. So, I sort of gave up on it. Some of you may be thinking about, oh, I gotta get the perfect matching pajamas, or just the flawless photos, elaborate crafts. But by Christmas Eve, for myself, and especially Christmas Day after we'd opened gifts, I was exhausted and snappy, and as I've told you before, crying in the car on the freeway.I realized after a couple years like that, that Jesus never asked for perfection. He asked for presence. He just wants our presence with Him.Letting Go of the Comparison TrapHow can we let go of that perfection? And you may not be a perfectionist. But you may still be scrolling social media going, oh, I wish I had… oh, look at them, look at that.That is such a false hope. They are showing you their highlight reels. They are not giving you an accurate picture of what life is like. Because we scroll through Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and we feel behind already. We want our kids to have magical memories, but we forget that we set the tone as well.You see, when we do that, when we are constantly comparing ourselves to other people, we feel guilty. We feel overwhelmed. We feel stressed. And there's one more. Oh, we miss the joy of the season! You know, the season's supposed to be joyful and joy to the world. It is not happening.Your kids are not going to remember the perfect decorations, or the perfect decorating, tree decorating evening. They're going to remember the times as a family. They're gonna remember your peace and your presence with them. We don't need to be doing more, we just need to be present with our family.From Chaos to ConnectionSo how can we go from chaos to connection? Letting go of perfection actually opens the door for true connection.Think about it. What if on Christmas morning, y'all just had a great morning? If you open gifts in, that's great, but you're calm, your kids are happy, the home is at peace. Wouldn't that be awesome?But it doesn't just happen like this. We need to be intentional about it, and that is why I want to talk to you about that. We can use that time of Advent. Advent starts about 4 weeks before Christmas, and every week we can be doing different activities that can prepare our heart.Sometimes it's a heart surgery. We need to look at ourselves and see what do we need to do before God? Are there some sins that we need to confess? And we need to model that, and then show our kids as well. And then the different activities need to be purposeful and intentional.The Three Keys: Faith, Family, and FreedomThe key here is making a shift to faith, family, and freedom.Faith. Putting Christ back at the center. Back at the center of your celebration.Family, focusing on meaningful moments together, not the perfect photo.And then freedom, releasing the pressure to do everything perfect. And just have joy instead!You see, we need to spend that time personally, in faith, with our Lord and Savior, spending time, preparing our hearts for that celebration, and then we need to spend time as a family. That will draw the connections first. You've got up and down connection with God, then we have horizontal connection with our family. And when we build those connections, I think we grow into some freedom, that we don't have to do everything perfect.Practical Ways to Be More PresentSo, what are some practical ways? I would encourage you to pick one or two meaningful traditions that you might do year after year.For our family, I think my kids will all tell you their favorite Christmas tradition was baking pumpkin bread and cookies to sell. They took the profit, and they bought a gift for one missionary family. Every year, we picked a different missionary family. And to this day, they've all said something about that. It's one of their favorite traditions.We did that every year, and they would sell the baked goods, and then we would go to the store and buy it with whatever profit they had, because they had to pay me back for all the ingredients and that type of thing.So, pick one or two traditions. Say no to the activities that drain your family, that drain your spirit, your husband's spirit, your kid's spirit. Focus on time together, not just checking off the boxes. I did that for several years and realized that was not helping our family.I think it's really important that we use that time before Christmas, not as a to-do list with a checklist, but to prepare your heart, prepare your heart for that celebration.The Christmas Celebration BundleNow, it would be nice to have something that's sort of all set out for you, and that's why I did pull together our Christmas Celebration Bundle. I'm going to say this quickly. It's for some of you, it's not for others of you, but it's gonna go back to faith, family, and freedom.We've got items in this bundle, it's all digital, it's a Christmas celebrations bundle.Faith. We have a Star of Bethlehem. This really ties together Bible and history and science, all sorts of things, research, writing, and so this is analyzing from Matthew 2 what is the Star of Bethlehem. We have copy work.We also have fun family activities. This is our Christmas celebration eBook. Celebrate Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. And for those of you that don't know what Epiphany is, here's a little something. It's the 12 days after Christmas, because the Feast of Epiphany is on January 6th.That is the day they… we celebrate the wise men arriving. Now, it didn't really happen in 6 days, but that is the day that we celebrate the wise men going to see Jesus. And so there are traditions, activities, all sorts of things in this one book.And you can see these are for all different ages. We have Christmas around the world. This is more for junior high, elementary, and preschool, and you've got 5 countries that we're gonna, that you can use this as well, with books and crafts and songs and everything. And then we've got Christmas Carol Book, your kids can learn biblical Christmas songs, they can copy it, there's all sorts of things, but that will tie together your faith, your family, and then hopefully give you some freedom, because it's sort of all set out for you. And that is something that can be used year after year after year.Brooke said she got this bundle, and it helped her save time, and guided her to teach her kids the true meaning of Christmas. Another mom, Elena, told me that she became much more intentional with their learning during the Christmas season. She was excited to dive into Bethlehem Star and learn more about astronomy and astrology.That is a bundle available. You can go to HowToHomeschoolmychild.com/Christmasbundle, and you can get that there.Make Christ the CenterYou need to think about this. You don't need a perfect plan, you just need a plan, just a simple one that keeps you focused on Jesus Christ.So let's make this year the year that Christ takes center stage. Christ takes over the heart of you, your kids, and your home.For unto us is born a child, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.Ready to make this your most peaceful Christmas? Grab the Christmas Celebration Bundle at HowToHomeschoolmychild.com/Christmasbundle!

Do you ever feel like Christmas sneaks up on you — and suddenly your home is filled with chaos instead of calm? In this episode, we're talking about how to plan now so you can enjoy a peaceful Christmas filled with joy, not stress. You'll hear how one simple shift helped our family slow down, say no to busyness, and finally make Jesus the center of our Advent season.Here's what we'll cover in this conversation:-The small change we made when my kids were in elementary school that transformed our holidays-Why saying NO to some things creates space for what matters most-How we brought Jesus back into focus (without becoming the Grinch)-The one Advent book that became a game-changer for our family-A sneak peek into my "Three Clues to Keep Christ in Christmas" classIf you're ready to enjoy Christmas again instead of just surviving it, sign up for our FREE Class and start creating a plan for a peaceful, Christ-centered season.3 Clues to Keep Christ in Christmas: https://howtohomeschoolmychild.com/3clues

Fall can be full of cozy traditions — and it can also be a chance to point our families toward Jesus instead of fear. In this episode we share simple, Christ-centered ideas you can use at home or in your homeschool as meaningful Christian alternatives to halloween.You'll hear practical activities — everything from Reformation Day celebrations to service opportunities for your kids — and one “ready-to-use” idea to try this month.✅ Family Praise Night (dessert + songs + testimonies)✅ Night bags or luminaries with Bible verses to line your walkways✅ Heroes of the Faith costume idea and mini-presentations for kids✅ Harvest (Thanks) Tree, scripture scavenger hunts, and Service Night ideas✅ How we host a Reformation Day party and a ready-made Reformation unit studyGrab the Reformation Day Unit Study mentioned in the podcast: (use coupon code REF25 for the limited-time discount)Show Notes:Christian Alternatives to Halloween: Faith-Filled Fall Traditions for Your FamilyHey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the overwhelm so you could take a coffee break. We need a coffee break every once in a while.It is fall time. I got my fall background up here. I love fall. This morning, I went for a walk. I probably could have even put a jacket on, and I live in Texas, and it's still September. I am so excited. So, I don't know what your weather is like, but it has been getting cooler here as well.Today, what I want to do is talk to you about a time in the fall season that Christians often struggle with, and that is Halloween. What are we doing? I want to talk to you about some alternatives to Halloween.We are releasing this, and this Wednesday, we are going to have a Facebook party that will dive more into fall alternatives to Halloween. So I hope you will join me. It is in Facebook. There'll be some freebies in there, but there'll be some great resources as well.Halloween Doesn't Have to Be About Darkness or FearToday, what I want to share with you are some Christ-centered and some family-friendly alternatives that you can use in your family, in your home, and in your home school as well. And let's talk about fall traditions.If you are listening to this and there is a place to put a comment, leave a comment and let me know what's one of your fall traditions. We all have Christmas traditions, or Thanksgiving traditions. What are some traditions during the fall time?You know, I love the cooler weather. We did decorate pumpkins, and we still decorate pumpkins. My kids carved a pumpkin when they were younger. I remember one time I bought these big jewel stickers and bought one of those small little pumpkins for my two oldest granddaughters. They were probably like 2 and 4, 3 and 5, and they could just put those stickers all over wherever they wanted, and they had their own little decorated pumpkin, their jeweled pumpkin, we could say.What fall traditions do you want your kids to remember? When we lived in Idaho, we went apple picking, and then we would make apple cider right there. Some of y'all might go through those corn mazes. I've done that, not with my kids, but I've done it with Steve and with some adults as well. And then some of you might go to just a pumpkin patch. I know in Dallas, they have a beautiful arboretum completely decorated with all the fall stuff there is.So, what are some family traditions you might have for fall?Christ-Centered Alternatives to HalloweenNow let's move on to Christ-centered alternatives to Halloween. You know, the world, it seems like, has hijacked all Hallows' Eve. But we can take it back for holiness and for light.It is a dark holiday now, let's be honest, but we stand for the light, the light of Jesus Christ. And so, let's talk about some alternative things you might do during October, during the last week of October, and how you could really focus on the light of the world.Family Praise Night: Maybe just have some families over and have a family praise night, where everyone brings a dessert, and y'all sing some songs and share testimonies of God's work in your family.Light Bags: Maybe you could do like the light bags, and everyone in your neighborhood just gets the little sandwich bags, and they can decorate it, maybe even cut holes if you want, and put a candle, or if you don't want to do a candle, you could put those little electric candles in there. Then line them up on your sidewalk, or line them up across the front of your house as well. You might decorate them with Bible verses if you want.Heroes of the Faith Costume: Maybe everyone chooses a Bible character and dresses up as a Bible character, and you come ready to tell at least one little fact each child does about the person that they have dressed up. So, they're going to be learning, and they get to dress up as well.Harvest of Blessings Night: I have done this, and I do not have a picture of it. We took a big piece of brown paper wrap paper, and I just drew a tree with branches, but no leaves. Then we cut out leaves out of orange, yellow, brown, those colors, and each leaf, you would write a blessing that you have. You could start it in October and continue it into November during Thanksgiving as well. Be our blessings tree, or our thanks tree. Add to it all season long. And then, at Thanksgiving, be able to sit down and read through some of the blessings that you've had in the past two months.Scripture Scavenger Hunt: You could do a scripture scavenger hunt, where you hide verses around the house, or around the yard, and maybe tied to a little prize or a little treat. But each verse is connected to some themes, the theme of light, the theme of courage, or the theme of God's protection.Service Night: I love this idea, it's called Service Night. Be a light in your community. Maybe you bake some cookies, and you are the light to maybe our first responders that are around there. You could put little verses tied onto some little Ziplocs, like you could put some cookies in there, and put some verses in there that go along with Jesus being the light. So, this teaches our kids the joy of giving instead of always getting.Celebrating Reformation Day: Our Family TraditionI want to share a story of something that we did personally, and that was Reformation Day. We did, I guess most of the ones we did were lunches. We did it at lunchtime, and we celebrated Reformation Day, October 31st, All Hallows' Eve. It's the eve of All Hallows Day on November 1st.And where did this all come about? Now, let me just say, whether you are Catholic, or Protestant, I don't really care. You still need to know what history has to say. I am... we grew up... we lean... we are Protestant, and we taught our kids the Protestant faith. But they still learned the Catholic faith. They learned about it. I wanted them to be able to think through any of those situations, anything like that. So, regardless of what your perspective and your theology is, I think it's important that we share this with our kids.The Story of Martin Luther and the 95 ThesesWe begin with Martin Luther, because on October 31st in the 1500s, he was a German monk and a teacher. He loved God, and he wanted everyone to understand the Bible. But the church at that time was asking people to pay for their forgiveness, like, give money. They are called indulgences. And many people were very confused about it, and actually some were upset. The poor people felt like they got wrangled around.And so, Martin Luther wrote these statements, 95 statements, and we call them 95 Theses. And explain what he thought the church should fix, and how it should work, and how we needed to rethink some of the things that the church was doing. I'm going to read a few of these. These are not complaints, they are just questions and ideas.Salvation is a gift from God, not bought with money. Repentance means changing your heart, not just giving money. The Pope cannot forgive sins with money. Christ followers should focus on faith and good works, not paying for forgiveness. Preachers should teach God's Word. Money cannot cleanse the soul, only God can. The church should help the poor, not profit from their guilt. Christians should study the Bible for themselves.That was a new concept. We have Bibles everywhere. And yet, they didn't even have it in their own language. That was William Tyndale, was one of the first people that starts translating the Latin Bible, the Vulgate, into English. Eventually, they started translating from the Greek and the Hebrew. He was on the run and ended up dying, but he was one of the first men trying to translate the actual Bible into the English language. The authority of the Bible is higher than the authority of the Pope.On October 31st, 1517, he took this paper and he went and nailed it to the door of the Wittenberg church. The church door, in that time, acted like a bulletin board. So when there were any announcements or notices, people could just go nail them up there, and that's what Martin Luther did. And people began to read these theses, and they shared them widely. This started a movement called the Reformation.Why Reformation Day Matters TodayNow, there's a lot more that goes over. That is just a simple view. You can teach it to your kids at different levels, but I think it's important. Why is this important? Because we need to sometimes question our church leaders, even today. You should always go back to the Bible and use the Bible. I mean, if they're doing something that goes against the Bible, then that is something you need to consider. Maybe that's not the place that you need to be attending church.This also eventually helped people read and understand the Bible for themselves in their own language, and it changed church history forever. No matter where you are, and I sort of see the church in Roman Catholicism, Greek Orthodox, and then the Protestant movement. I want to say it was protesting, and that's how we get the word Protestant, protesting Catholics and Roman Catholics, if I remember correctly.You see, the big picture is God used this reformation to bring truth, encourage and revival to that society. It actually makes me think a little bit about today. God is using something evil to bring about truth and courage and revival here in the United States. And hopefully around the world.I mentioned that last week, but you know, you could go and look. There are martyrs that died for their faith. You could go through and study some of them. I think I have the book here. There is Book of Martyrs, but this is a kid's version of Trial and Triumph, and this is stories from church history. This would be a great place for you to get started in sharing stories, and some of them are martyrs, and some of them are people that were just strong and courageous in their faith, and so that would be something that could tie in. That would be an alternative to Halloween, if you want to dive deep into this.How to Host Your Own Reformation Day PartyAnother thing, and this is what we did, we studied this time period, and then we had a Reformation Day party. We invited families, every family was responsible for bringing one food dish and hosting a booth. That booth could be a game, it could be a craft.We had some stairs up at the front of my house, and so, one of them had them, like, climbing, because at that time in the cathedral, they had to crawl up these stairs when they would go to Rome. We had people making candles at that time, because you needed candles for life. There are all different things you could do. We would always sing some songs, we might even act out a play based on one of our reformers, depending on who we were choosing, whether I think we... I know we did Martin Luther, John Calvin, Martin Bucer, any of those, and then we would always fellowship over a meal.And so that's really cool. How about you weave Reformation history into your home school, even with just one activity? You know, I think it's really important. You could host a party. It's not that hard. You don't have to do all of it. Spread the love and let other people come and bring activities for your kids. Our first one, my kids even dressed up. They made costumes, and they dressed up like a woman back in that time period, or a man.So, enjoy your family fall traditions that creates memories, look for alternatives to Halloween that point your family to Christ, and then celebrate Reformation Day to root your kids in church history. And I would encourage you to plan right now, this week, first week of October, what is one thing that you will do in October that's an alternative to Halloween, if that's something you want to do?Ready-to-Go Reformation Day ResourcesIf you'd like something that's a ready-to-go activities, I have something called a Reformation Day unit study. I pulled it together. You're going to get a book list, you're going to get stories about it, you get a slide presentation on different reformers. We have videos as well. There are recipes in there, and you know, a unit study takes the topic, and then we provide all the different subjects, history, and science, and art, and cooking, and Bible, and character, and literature. You get a little bit of all of that, and then you can pick and choose what it is you want for your family.If you happen to be listening to this, the week that this episode is published, this unit study is on sale, and so you can use the link below to be able to save some money on that Reformation Unit Study. You can get it at any time. People have bought it at all times of the year. But, right now, if you'd like to save a little money, just use the link in the coupon code CODE REF25, and you'll be able to save a little bit money as well.Hey, if you have a comment or question, reach out to me, you know, email me, DM me. If you have gotten just one little tip out of here, would you please share this with another Christian mom or another homeschool mom to help them, that would mean the world to me. Or, leave a 5-star review, because that means we can get this out to more and more people. Moms don't have the time to pull all this together, and they just need some creative ideas.Hey, thanks for spending time with me. I am Kerry Beck with Homeschool Coffee Break. We'll talk to you next time.

The world feels heavy right now, and as homeschool parents, we're navigating how to walk alongside our children through national tragedies while maintaining our faith and hope. In this deeply personal episode, I explore how God brings redemption even in the darkest moments and why talking about these difficult events with our kids is so important.We'll discuss the spiritual battle happening around us, the power of forgiveness in healing our own hearts, and practical ways to pray Scripture over your family daily.Here's what you'll hear in this episode:✅Why forgiveness is for your healing & freedom, not for the person who hurt you✅How to put on the full armor of God to protect your family spiritually✅The importance of reading real Scripture with your children, even the young ones✅Practical prayer strategies you can start today✅How to recognize that people aren't your enemy, but the spiritual battle in the heavens is your enemyReady to stand firm in faith with your family? Grab the free Joy Scripture Cards to start praying Scripture over your loved ones today.Recommended Resources:Joy Scripture CardsTrial & Triumph

Are your kids dragging their feet when it's time for schoolwork? Football season gives you the perfect opportunity to flip that around and show them how to enjoy learning in ways that connect with their real interests. With a little creativity, you can turn the excitement of the season into meaningful lessons that stick.In this episode, you'll discover:✅Simple strategies to use football to inspire curiosity in your homeschool✅Fun writing prompts that work for both younger and older students✅Easy ways to tie math, science, and history to your child's favorite sport✅Critical thinking activities that spark deeper learning✅How to highlight Godly character lessons through sports role modelsRecommended Resources:FREE Football Unit Study https://howtohomeschoolmychild.com/football-unit-study/ Sports Bundle (15 Minute Flash Sale - SAVE 87%)... includes 6 sets of printableshttps://howtohomeschoolmychild.com/hth-trip-sports-oto

Teaching manners isn't about rules and rigidity—it's about showing love, kindness, and respect to the people around us. In this conversation with Monica Irvine from The Etiquette Factory, we unpack simple and practical strategies for teaching manners in a way that sticks. You'll discover why manners are more than table rules and how they shape your children's character for life.If you've ever wondered how to teach manners without constant correction, this episode is full of practical stories, heart-tugging lessons, and family habits that make character training simple. Monica shares easy-to-implement tips to help kids feel valued, develop respect for others, and build lifelong relationship skills.What you'll learn in this episode:✅Why teaching manners is really about loving others✅The key mistake parents make with etiquette✅How to create “soft heart” moments for better learning✅Practical lessons your family can start using week✅How manners build humility, confidence, and strong relationshipsRecommended Resources:Character Training Tool KitCharacter Development Without the DramaCharacter Building in 3 StepsMonica Irvine is the President of The Etiquette Factory and co-Founder of Fundamentals4Kids. As a renowned national speaker and published author of over 20 books, Mrs Irvine delights in her passion for helping children and adults reach their full potential. Mrs Irvine is a retired homeschool mom who now enjoys the fruits of her labors watching her children raise her most loved grandchildren.Follow Monica Irvine and The Etiquette Factory on FacebookShow Notes: How to Teach Manners: Beyond Please and Thank You with Monica IrvineWhat It Really Means to Have MannersKerry: Well, let's talk about etiquette and manners. Could you tell our listeners just a little bit, maybe why is this so important? Especially in today's culture? And how does this go beyond just saying, please and thank you. I mean, please, and thank you are important, but that's just a little small part of it. So tell us why and what, how it goes beyond that.Monica: I know sometimes over the years I've told my husband I should have named the company something besides the etiquette factory, because I'll be at a convention and I can always see people's reaction. They look up and they read the sign, and I can read their brain often where they're going. Oh, that's great and all. But we've got more important things to worry about than what fork to eat your salad with and to me I know why it's so much more than that.Let me first give you the definition that we use for etiquette at the etiquette factory, and that is etiquette which manners and etiquette, chivalry all mean the same thing. Etiquette is helping those around us to feel valued, and comfortable.George Washington's Rules Changed EverythingMonica: Years ago I was homeschooling our kids, and we were studying the life of President George Washington. And what a fascinating life that man had! And as we were doing that I stumbled upon George Washington's rules of civility and decent behavior. Many of you have read a couple of those, if not just Google that. And you will see this list of 110 chivalry skills that, according to President Washington's journal, he put to memory at the age of 13 he actually copied these 110 chivalry rules out of a French book.As I started reading these rules, I just, I can just tell you the spirit penetrated my heart, and being the mom of 3 boys. I was like, Wow, you know, my boys, could benefit from knowing some of these? Of course, manners was always important to me. and so I said, You know, let's start trying to memorize one of these a week and kind of having a manners thing each week.We started memorizing these chivalry skills, and something happened. I started noticing a change in behavior. and it fascinated me because I was like, what's what's changed. I mean, I've always told my boys to have good manners. I've always taught them.The Problem with Teaching "In the Moment"Monica: I think a light bulb moment happened when it dawned on me that usually 98% of the time when I was trying to teach my children manners was in the moment of correcting, like my one of my kids would say or do something that wasn't the most polite, and I would be oh, honey, no, baby, you can't say that, that's not polite. And then I would go on to tell them why.When all of a sudden I shifted to start having a daily manners lesson during the school day, when my heart was softer. My children's hearts were softer because they weren't being fussed at. and we just had a discussion about well, how do we use our napkin correctly? Or how do you make an apology sound sincere. All of a sudden my boys would be like, Mom, let's do another one. What's the next one? Let's go ahead and talk about the next one. and it literally is what changed everything.Why Manners Really MatterMonica: Most people think of manners when they think of table manners right and usually family sit around the table, and for parents that manners are important to them. Their table sounds like this. Could you, too, with your mouth closed, honey, sit still in your chair, stop stop making that noise. Get your elbow off the table, and it's just this constant correcting.But when I teach kids the definition of manners and I use an example like this, I'm like, okay. So if I came over and had dinner with you all your family tonight. and I sat down and I started eating like a pig. I mean, y'all, I'm chewing with my mouth open. I am making some weird noise with my tongue, or I eat so fast that I'm finished getting up and leaving the table. When you're on your 3rd bite any of those behaviors, I would be sending your family a message, and that message would be, look, I'm here for one person, one person only, and that's myself.You see, the lack of manners is called selfishness. Manners is just trying to get me and you and all of us to look outward to pay attention to how our behavior or lack thereof, is causing other people around us to feel.Teaching Children to Feel Others' EmotionsKerry: I love the idea of being valued and being comfortable around someone. So I know this includes things like kindness and respect. Can you give us some ideas on how moms could either do that? Or my other thought was, how do they go from just learning the rules to actually internalizing some of that.Monica: For me, and the way we go about teaching children is we try to actually tug on their heartstring a little bit what I mean by that is, usually it's when it's when our emotions are hit that we change our behavior.So, for instance, let's say that our child has a habit of leaving their dirty clothes and wet towel on the bathroom floor, and most of us would handle it this way. Get your towel off the floor. Come, get your clothes. and usually it's in frustration right?Well, all of a sudden, when you sit down with your kids and say, let's let's talk about, for instance, the way we leave the bathroom for the next person that uses it. If if I go into the restroom and I make a mess. However that happens, whether it's my dirty clothes, my wet towel, I leave the sink full of spit and toothpaste, or I don't have the commode, you know, nice and tidy. Do you want? Do you want to come in after me?The Power of Standing to Show HonorMonica: So let me give you. I'll give you all a lesson. One of our lessons. So one of our lessons is the stand up lesson. So if if we were at an event and someone brought in the American flag, what would we all do? You know we stand up, and why do we stand up? Well, we we stand up because of the honor and respect that we have for what that flag represents.The same thing happens in our home. So the etiquette skill is that today, still, in the 21st century, it is polite for children to stand for adults and for gentlemen to stand for ladies. I use the word honor a lot because I want to raise and wanted to raise honorable children. What does it mean to be honorable? Well to be honorable. You have to do some honorable things and honorable things. Always 100% of the time require some level of sacrifice. That's what makes them honorable when you give of yourself in order to bless help someone else.So how would this look in our home? Our families still eat at the table at least 3 or 4 times a week. But so Mom or Dad might say, Hey, family, it's time for dinner. and so our family would come to the table, and all of us would stand behind our chair until the person we're honoring sits down. Typically, I would suggest that that person first be mom. So Mom is the first person that sits down or the cook.We're Creating Entitled ChildrenMonica: The last time you and your family had a big gathering, maybe 4th of July, who were actually the first people that had their plates prepared. 98% of you are, gonna say, the kids. because see? At some point our society decided that was easier. Oh, yeah. So we got to get the kids, get their plates, get their drink, make sure they have everything they need. And we think if we get the kids situated, then us adults can go over here and eat peacefully, because we're not being bothered by the needs of our children.And then we're the same adults that want to walk around this earth complaining about the entitled generation. And I'm like parents. So you're gonna let your children have their plates fixed before their grandmother. Are you crazy? We've got to stop it because I believe that this behavior is hurting our children.Simple Ways to Practice Valuing OthersMonica: When I'm teaching children and families how to help their children to greet people and introduce themselves. It's not just that we're supposed to introduce ourselves. It's just that greeting people is another way to help people to feel valued.For instance, the last time you and the children went through the Walmart checkout line. What were what were our children doing? Were they obsessing over the candy, mom, can I have this? Can I have this. Were we on our phone scrolling through social media while we're waiting, we're all getting tricked by the enemy into this self absorption.Whereas if I teach my kids how to value others right before we go through the groceries checkout line, I'm going to say, Hey, kids, what are we about to do check out, mom, what does that mean? We're going to help the cashier feel valued. That's right. And so then my children all know to say, Hello, how are you doing today? Oh, good afternoon! What's your name?Kerry: That's so good, you know, in the middle of what you were saying. But while back the word humility just kept coming up to my mind, and the idea of Philippians. 2. Where Jesus is the perfect example of humility and giving of himself. So I really appreciate you bringing this down to the gospel, and it really is sacrifice, and that there's benefits for all of us when we sacrifice.Resources and EncouragementMonica: So the etiquettefactory.com. We've got some wonderful programs. This is our preschool through 3rd grade course, called fundamentals for kids. With little kids, we find that they need to play a game. They need to sing about it, hear a story. Make a craft. And that's what fundamentals for kids is. It's twice a week you pull something out of the box and we help you have a conversation with your kids.And then the life skills for you is for 4th, 5th grade all the way through, seniors. In fact, it can count as a half a credit for our high school. We actually show videos of teenagers doing the skills the wrong way and the right way.Monica: Oh, just you know, if I could go back in time and tell my new homeschool mom self, give myself any advice. It would be relax. Relax. You know, if if we all sent our kids to public school. There would be some gaps in their education when they graduated. and if we sent them to private school there would be some gaps in their education. and as we homeschool when they graduate. there's going to be some gaps. But it doesn't matter about the gaps. What matters is that every day we try to help our children learn to love, to learn. and that's all that matters.In all the years that we homeschooled, y'all, we never finished curriculum. The only curriculum we ever finished. Every year was our math. But what happened is, we learned to love, to learn, and have very successful children who have done some really difficult things in their careers. It works itself out. But teaching character, teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no substitute for that, and have some fun because you're making memories.Ready to start teaching manners in your home? Visit The Etiquette Factory to learn more about Monica's practical curriculum that makes teaching character and manners enjoyable for the whole family.

Homeschooling isn't just about academics—it's about helping your kids discover their unique strengths and preparing them to lead. In this inspiring conversation with Heidi Christianson from Leadership Education Mentoring Institute, we explore the powerful role of mentoring youth in your homeschool, along with how to shift from a checklist mindset to a life-long learning approach.You'll hear stories of real families, practical strategies for mentoring your kids, and encouragement to see your role as a parent-mentor in a new light. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a veteran, this conversation will leave you inspired to create a family culture that values leadership, learning, and connection.What you'll learn in this episode:✅Why every child is a genius—and how to help them shine✅The difference between teaching and mentoring youth✅How to create a homeschool culture that sparks a love of learning✅Practical tips to individualize your child's education✅Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed or unsureCheck out LEMI, mentioned in the podcast and start mentoring your kids with confidence!Resources:The Learning Zone BookA credentialed teacher with a Master's in Education, Heidi Christianson has taught across university, community college, private, and charter school settings and homeschooled her five sons for over 20 years. Her commitment to personalized education led her to co-found a commonwealth school, develop curriculum, and co-author the book The Learning Zone. She has spoken at major homeschool conventions and serves as director of operations at the Leadership Education Mentoring Institute (LEMI). Heidi also founded The Genius Paradigm and Realizing Genius.FacebookInstagramYouTubeShow Notes: Discovering the Genius in Every Child: A Leadership Education Approach to Mentoring Youth Through HomeschoolingMeet Heidi ChristiansenHey, everyone! I'm Kerry Beck, with homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can actually take a coffee break. Today we are talking about a topic that I know y'all have heard me talk about a lot - leadership education. Heidi Christiansen from LEMI is here, and we're going to dive right into it.Heidi has 5 boys who are all grown now. Her youngest one graduated last year, and she homeschooled them for 23 years. Before kids, she actually taught at the university and at the community college level.She knew she wanted to teach, but never thought she would teach kids because she did not have a good experience in public school. When she went to enroll her oldest, she just couldn't do it. At that point she had toddler twins and a newborn, so she put him into a private school. But with that many kids already, there was no way she could continue.The Turning Point: When Traditional Methods Don't WorkKerry: So when our twins were ready for kindergarten, we jumped into homeschooling, and even though I had such a horrible time in the public school system, I found myself falling into that track and those habits. I was - I wanted my kids to love learning, but because I was, you know, especially with my experience in education I still was following, falling into those bad habits.Heidi: My 4th son, I like to say he's not my problem child, but he's the child that made me a better mother, and because of that he just fought me on the traditional education, and I knew that I was the one that had to change. You can't ask your kids to change in that way. They're kids.So I started doing research. That's when I found leadership education and I just loved it. One of the things they talked about in a foundational book, the Thomas Jefferson Education, by Oliver Demille, is how everyone is a genius. I just love that idea.What Leadership Education Really MeansKerry: When we're talking about leadership education, tell us what that is, and what that would really mean for a family, and how it's more than just a curriculum or a checklist.Heidi: It definitely is not a curriculum or a checklist. One of the important things I feel it's just so important for people to understand is that idea of what leadership is, because too often - I know my oldest son, he was about 12-13 years old when we started in leadership education, and I was all excited about it. I was trying to share it with him and he just started crying and saying, "Mommy, I don't want to be President."Leadership education is not about titles or positions. True leadership emerges when someone learns to navigate challenges thoughtfully, see patterns in human behavior and systems and guide others towards positive change. It's about developing the capacity to make a meaningful difference whether in your family, community or the broader world.Kerry: So good. I really appreciate you reminding people that not everyone's gonna grow up to be President of the United States or CEO, or even on the church elder board or something. But just like you said, moms are leaders and dads are leaders. I would say, 99% of the kids of the moms listening to this are going to grow up and be a mom and a dad. And they need to know how to lead well.Shifting from Teacher to Mentor MindsetKerry: If we're talking about leadership education, how would someone shift their thinking in the way that they would homeschool, or in the way that they would parent, because, like we said, it's not a curriculum. It's not a checklist. How do they shift, and what kinds of things might they start doing?Heidi: One of the biggest shifts is how we see - what our goals are, because too often I know as a credential teacher, and one of the reasons I stopped working for the Charter schools is that as a teacher we are looking at checking off those boxes and all of those standards. As a mentor, which is something that we look at differently, a mentor looks at the child, the student and sees where they are, where they need to go, and then helps them get there.We're looking at where do they need to go? And for every single child that will be different, for every single person it's slightly different. Yes, they need to read. Yes, they need to be able to do math. But some kids need to do statistics and calculus and all of that, and some kids don't. And that's okay.Instead of looking at okay, what does my 5th grader need to know, it's more of where do I want my child to be when they are 40. What do we want them to be doing when they're 40? We want them to be living their genius, sharing their genius with the world. We want them to be reading books and discussing them. We want them to be writing effectively and persuasively and challenging ideas.Real-Life Examples of Mentoring YouthHeidi: My youngest son is much younger. There's like 7 and a half year difference, and I was just tearing my hair out. How am I going to get him to read? My 4 older sons loved fantasy and science fiction, and my 5th son, I'm like, "Okay, why isn't he fitting into the mold?" This is after so many years of doing this, but I still - it was so easy to try and just force him into that box that his older brothers had built.He read a little bit later, but once I figured out what he liked to read, oh my gosh! He took off. We were driving to our homeschool community, and I would listen to books in the car. He started out with his earphones on listening to his own stuff. Then it's like, "Okay, take one off. What is she saying?" Then it's like no earphones, and then stopping the thing. "It's Mom, let's talk about this."That's how I figured out what he liked to read. He loves psychology, economics. It's just amazing what he will read, but it had to be individualized for him.Kerry: You know that sounds like my son - he's our youngest, and he knew how to read but he wasn't interested in it. As long as it had water in it, like Robinson Crusoe or Swiss Family Robinson, I don't know why he would be interested. He's 32 now, and he loves to read. Give your kids grace and patience. Give them time, and give yourself grace and patience, because sometimes it takes some time to figure out for each child what is best for them.Practical Mentoring in ActionHeidi: For my youngest son, once he got to that hard age of 17 where it's like, "Oh no, I'm going to be an adult, and I don't quite know how to do it" - as a mentor, I could see that one of his things that he was very concerned about is how would he literally survive on his own.One of the things I did actually made my life a win-win. I gave him a couple hundred dollars and said, "Okay, you're in charge of 3 dinners a week for the month. Here's $200. I keep the basics stocked. If you need anything else, you need to use that $200. Anything left over is yours."He got really creative. It was not only a way of him figuring out how to use what we had, it was a way for him to put some money in his pocket, but he also had to learn to go out and budget and figure out recipes. My husband and I have never eaten better. He feels so much better because he knows he can go and live on his own when the time is right.One Simple Step to Get StartedKerry: So let's say we have a mom here, and she's hearing this, and she's excited but she's also overwhelmed. What's like one simple step that she could take to just begin leadership education in her home?Heidi: The best thing I would say is the first step would be understanding that you are an example to your kids. In order to help you connect your students' heart and mind and purpose, showing them you doing that is the best thing to do. So they need to see you reading. They need to see you writing, or at least hear about it.I would highly recommend starting like a journaling routine for yourself. Every week I will write down my gains - everything that has happened, all of the positive things that have happened for the week. Too often, as homeschool moms, we have these elaborate plans that we're going to do, and then something better comes along. Then you look at your list of goals for the last week, and it's like, "Oh, I didn't do anything." That's the gap you're looking at.Instead, look at the gains. What have your kids learned? Sometimes for me, when my kids were little, at night I would think, "What went well? What worked? What did they learn?" Sometimes it was just "Well, that mommy can say she's sorry, and it's okay. Grownups can apologize." That's an important thing to learn.Being that example for your kids is just so important. Be that adult that you want them to be.Kerry: That's so good. And it covers so many areas of our whole life. You need to start with you. You don't need to go, "Oh, here's leadership education. I'm gonna make my kids do all of this" because you've got to change. It's got to be internal for you before you can share it. You may spend several months just working on you and becoming maybe a better reader, or a better writer, or have better character in your life.The Genius ParadigmHeidi: I would love to encourage people to take the time. Stop and see the genius in your kids. I call it a genius paradigm. It's not just your kids. It's your spouse, your friends, the people you work with. Having that genius paradigm just really can change the world, because you can see how one person - it might not be the right spot for somebody to do something, but they are a genius at something else, and you can give them grace.That's what leadership education is all about - seeing that amazing qualities in everybody, and having the grace to let them shine in their own path.Ready to start mentoring youth in your homeschool with a leadership education approach?Connect with Heidi and learn more about Leadership Education Mentoring Institute:Website: LEMI-u.com (includes a free online course)Email: Heidi@LEMIHomeschool.comFacebook and YouTube channels availableWant more homeschool encouragement and practical tips? Subscribe to Homeschool Coffee Break wherever you listen to podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review to help other homeschool families find us!

You see those grade-level checklists and stress out. How will you check off all the boxes? The better question is how to help each child grow at their own pace? In this episode we tackle the grade level myth, so kids can learn at their own pace. You'll discover practical ways an individualized learning plan helps your child gain confidence and real mastery in your homeschool.You'll hear real stories and step-by-step ideas you can try this week — assess strengths, adapt lessons, and celebrate mastery instead of chasing someone else's checklist.✅Why the one-room schoolhouse model was actually brilliant (and how it relates to your homeschool today)✅Real stories about kids who learned at their own pace and thrived (including my daughter who didn't know her times tables until algebra!)✅How individualized learning can turn apathy into excitement in your homeschool✅4 practical tips for teaching your kids at their own pace (even with multiple children)✅Why mastery matters more than checking off someone else's checklistRecommended Resource:FREE How to Simplify Your Homeschool - 3 part course Show Notes: The Problem with Grade-Level PressureHey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the stress and stop the overwhelm so you can actually take a coffee break.Today we are talking about the grade-level myth. It makes me think about 150 years ago, one-room schoolhouse, and the one-room schoolhouse actually did so much good. I've actually heard more modern, younger people say, well, the reason we have grade levels now is it's such a better way to teach our kids. Well, not really.The one-room schoolhouse was fantastic. It is how people have learned for centuries. So today, I want to sort of talk about this myth of grade level and the pressure.Do you feel pressure sometimes? Are my kids on grade level? Am I doing the right thing? I see parents that are stressing out if there is this grade level that doesn't match their child's ability.Why Parents Stress About Grade LevelsSo many moms worry about those grade-level expectations, which some professor probably made up. They're comparing themselves to other homeschoolers that are following the conveyor belt model. They are comparing themselves to public school benchmarks, and they're stressing out, or they are afraid their kids are going to fall behind.Will they really be prepared for life? And let's face it, who made the grade level checklist? Y'all heard me say it before, quit checking off the checklist, especially someone else's. Now, if you make your own checklist, that's what God's putting on your heart, that's a whole different story.Real Stories of Learning at Their Own PaceLet's talk about Sarah. Sarah's my little imaginary friend. She is 8 years old. Technically, she is in 3rd grade.She loves to read. She reads chapter books that are 2 or 3 levels ahead in grade level, so she's reading on a 5th or 6th grade level. She can discuss themes of the book, vocabulary, beyond her age.Sounds like my little granddaughter, who's 6 years old, and she just finished kindergarten, and she's reading chapter books. It's awesome. But you know, we all have different strengths and weaknesses, because poor little Sarah, my imaginary friend.She still struggles with subtraction and with borrowing. She hasn't yet even reached multiplication. This reminds me of my daughter, Gentry, who did not know her times tables until algebra.We actually pulled her off of math for a whole year in seventh grade. But we let her go at her own pace, and she's an adult, 35 years old, and doing okay.From a parent's perspective, you see that grade level checklist says, Sarah should be multiplying by now, and then you stress out. You panic, and you're like, oh no, Sarah is behind.Don't worry about it. Let them move along at their own pace. Now, if they're moving along at their own pace because they're lazy and they're not doing the work, that's a whole different story. That's character, and we can talk about that in a future episode.How Individualized Learning WorksWhen we have individualized learning, some kids can dive really deep into certain topics. There are going to be fewer gaps in their learning, and it can build confidence and motivation. If it's something that they are especially if you're going in their interest as well.My friend had a son who was Hunter's age. Hunter was 6, and they're all learning to read, but not Will. Will didn't learn to read till he was 10 or 12 years old.Once he did, he went flying past all the kids on his grade level. You see, Hunter could sort of be on that grade level. He didn't like to read at the time, he does now. That's another thing. So, he moved along at whatever the grade level was, but Will didn't.His mom had to adapt his lessons for him, but once he took off, he skyrocketed.It reminds me of my second imaginary friend, James. James is 13 years old. His parents noticed, you know what, he sure loves tinkering with electronics and machines.James' parents let him slow down in some of the traditional subjects and dive really deep into his science projects. This built tons of momentum. He became motivated to finish his other subjects faster, so he could get over to his science time, because he loved it. That was just who he was. It's how God had made him.He confidently began building circuits and even tutoring some of his friends in physics. You see, individualized learning, it turned apathy into excitement. He may not have liked his reading class, which Hunter didn't, but I could let him pursue science, and he loved it.Practical Tips for Teaching at Your Child's PaceHow can we teach at our kids' own pace? You're like, I've got 5 kids, how can I do this? Well, first of all, assess your kids' strengths and weaknesses before starting.If you didn't do this this week, I would really encourage you to look at their strengths and weaknesses and write them down. Pay attention to them. I didn't really need a test to know if my child knew the math concept, because I was grading their papers every day, and more than likely, you are, too.And pray about it. God's going to show you their strengths and weaknesses and where He wants you to focus this year. So do a little assessment.Tip 2: Adjust your lesson plans, adjust your curriculum to match their level. Will's mom did a lot of adapting in elementary school. He was not doing the same thing that a third grader would do in reading, because he still didn't know how to read.I did some adapting with Gentry. She did not like math. So in seventh grade, we just said, okay, no more math. Now, that wasn't forever, but it was for one year. And you know what? She did perfectly fine.Flexible Scheduling and Mastery Over CompletionUse some sort of flexible scheduling. You might need to repeat some lessons, or you may need to pause some lessons without guilt. Like, I paused math without guilt. I'm like, we needed to change the attitude before we worried about whatever the next math lesson was.So, you may need to repeat, and mastery is so much more important. It's better. When I was a public school teacher, you got your grade and you moved on. It didn't matter if you really learned it, you're just going to keep moving on.Celebrate mastery, not just a grade-level check, check it off, completion. I love Phonetic Zoo. There's no grade levels in it. You must pass every spelling test twice with 100% before you go on. That means you've mastered it. Matthew C, same kind of thing. They are all about mastering it.It's okay if your kids learn faster than expected, or slower than expected. I was not a reader growing up. I can do it, I can get a good grade in it, but I wasn't that good at it. I loved math. Now, did that make a difference? No. Was I behind, I'm sure, vocabulary? I was always behind. I think I'm still behind in vocabulary.It's okay, your kids will still turn out to be adults who can take care of themselves. Don't worry about that grade level checklist.Final EncouragementI really want to encourage you to focus on your kids' growth, not comparing them to social media, or to the public school, or to the other homeschoolers in your area. Just know that individualized learning creates lifelong learners. It's better to slow down and learn it well than to just rush through it and not really learn anything. That's a schooling, not an education.Be flexible. Give yourself grace and patience, give your kids grace, and be patient. That is going to be a better outcome for you and for your kids, especially for your kids. You're stressing your kids, you're stressing yourself out if all you're doing is looking at all the grade level, all the rigidity from grade level.Teaching at your own pace builds confidence, mastery and joy in the learning.Would you please leave a comment and let me know what is one subject area that you are going to assess your children and adjust the pacing to fit each of your children this week? If you need help on assessment, How to Simplify My Homeschool is a free course that will be listed in the show notes.

Homeschool doesn't have to feel overwhelming or exhausting. In this episode, we'll explore the power of short lessons in homeschooling—a simple shift that helps kids stay focused, build confidence, and reduce daily stress.You'll discover practical ways to break subjects into smaller sessions, add movement breaks, and use short lessons for mastery. With real-life examples for both elementary and high school, you'll see how to make lessons in homeschooling more effective and doable for every age and stage. ✅ Why kids lose focus in long lessons (and how to fix it) ✅ How to structure short lessons for younger and older students ✅ The role of breaks and movement in keeping attention ✅ Practical examples for history, science, and more ✅ How short lessons build confidence and consistency

What if your homeschool didn't feel like a checklist, but a life-giving journey? In this Best of Homeschool Super Heroes Workshop episode, Julie Ross shares the tools of a Charlotte Mason education and how they can bring peace, beauty, and connection to your home.You'll learn how to apply these tools—atmosphere, discipline, and life—in a way that nourishes both your children and yourself. This gentle philosophy isn't about replicating school at home; it's about building something far more meaningful.Here's what you'll take away:✅ What it really means to create a homeschool “atmosphere”✅ How habits form the foundation of discipline (without nagging)✅ Why ideas are the most powerful food for the mind✅ How to foster solitude, attention, and curiosity✅ The secret to cultivating beauty and truth in your home

In this Best of Homeschool Super Heroes episode, Rachael Carman brings clarity to what matters most in your homeschool. After 26 years of homeschooling her seven kids, she shares why the most important subject to teach your children isn't academic—it's spiritual.This episode will encourage and equip you to make the Bible the foundation of your homeschool. Rachael's wisdom is practical, powerful, and deeply rooted in God's truth.You'll learn:✅ What happens when you put the Bible at the center of your day✅ How to make worship and Scripture study a natural part of homeschooling✅ Why your kids need heart-shaping more than head knowledge✅ Tips to grow in your own walk with God as you lead your children✅ What to do when you feel discouraged or spiritually dry

With 20+ years of experience, Jen Merckling, shows you how to make any homeschool curriculum work—even if it's not the "perfect" fit. These 5 tips will help you feel confident, supported, and ready for a school year full of peace and growth.You'll learn:✅Why modeling matters more than early independence✅How to pause and repeat without falling “behind”✅What to do when grade levels don't match your child's progress✅The truth about short lessons and how they help with consistency✅When and how to cut assignments and still count it as a win

As part of our Best of Homeschool Super Heroes Workshop series, we're bringing back one of our most loved super heroes—with Andrew Pudewa! In this episode, we dig deep into teaching writing through imitation, from simple copywork to powerful storytelling. Whether you're just starting out or need to reset your writing routine, this method can transform your homeschool.Here's what you'll discover:✅How to move your child away from “hating writing”✅How to build confidence in your reluctant writer✅What keyword outlines are—and why they work✅When awkward writing is actually a good sign✅How imitation paves the way for real creativity

There's a lot we take for granted when it comes to homeschooling—especially our freedoms. In today's conversation, you'll hear how homeschool freedom is under threat in places you might not expect... and how one nonprofit is working to protect it.From museum tours to national advocacy, Steven Policastro shares how God is using their work to equip homeschool leaders in 130+ nations. You'll be inspired to pray, take action, and help families around the globe.The surprising truth about where homeschool is illegal✅Why parental rights and Christian education go hand-in-hand✅How global leaders are uniting to defend freedom✅2 creative ways your family can support the mission✅How to turn this into a meaningful homeschool project

As we approach the Day of the Christian Martyr on June 29, 2025, talking to kids about difficult topics like persecution or the life of a Christian martyr isn't easy—but it's important. In this episode, Kerry sits down with homeschool curriculum author Bonnie Rose Hudson to discuss how to introduce these powerful stories to children in a way that honors truth, age-appropriateness, and their emotional makeup.From personal stories to practical examples, you'll discover ways to guide your kids in understanding faith under fire. Bonnie also shares encouragement for parents and non-parents alike who want to support the global Church and disciple the next generation with bold, faith-filled examples.In this episode, you'll learn:✅How to gauge what details kids can emotionally handle✅Tips for weaving Christian martyr stories into Bible, history, or reading lessons✅Where to find trustworthy, age-appropriate resources✅What to say when your kids ask "Why would God allow this?"✅Encouragement for moms and dads who want their kids to live boldly for Christ✅Special insights on observing the Day of the Christian Martyr with your family

If you've ever wondered how to slow down and connect while still “doing school,” this episode is for you. Today, I'm sharing how a simple walk with my granddaughter — and her obsession with roly-polies — reminded me why nature walks are a powerful tool in your homeschool. You'll discover how even 15 minutes outside can spark curiosity, lead to deeper relationships, and provide rich educational experiences — without the need for worksheets or screens.We'll cover:✅How to make nature walks meaningful (without being a science expert)✅Simple tools you can bring along for learning on the go✅Academic subjects that connect with nature walks✅How walking together builds family connection✅A simple way to turn every walk into a moment of gratitudeResources MentionedFree Nature JournalHandbook of Nature StudyChristian Liberty Nature ReadersUsborne First Book of NatureShow Notes:Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can take a coffee break. I think I'll take one right now. Today we are talking about why nature walks belong in your homeschool, even if you're not an outdoorsy person. Before we dive into this, I would love for you to subscribe to this channel if you haven't already done so, or if you can leave a comment or a 5 Star Review. That would be awesome. And you may have a home school friend, just one home school friend that you could share this with, because we're recording this. It's summertime. It's a great time to be outdoors and do this.The Roly-Poly StoryIn fact, I'll just start. This episode was inspired by something that I did with my 8 year old granddaughter last week. She wanted to go on walks now. I'd get up early and go on my own sort of prayer, walk and fast walk, get some exercise in. But she wanted to go on walk, and on Friday, the last day we got out there, and she found a roly-poly on the sidewalk, and it was the first one. And it you know, those little ones say they roll up into a little ball. I mean she was talking to it somehow it fell off, and then she found another one, and we were walking down the sidewalk to get to the path, and there's a big stone wall, and there were roly-polies everywhere.I'm telling you we went on a 15 or 20 minute walk, and I think she talked to these roly polys the entire way, and they would be crawling, and she's like, "Oh, you don't like this hand. You like this hand. They don't ever want to go into this hand," and just went on and on they fall off, and then she'd have to get another one. The last one she actually carried pretty far all the way back to that stone wall, because she wanted to leave this roly-poly near his friends, so he would have some friends.Why This Story MattersNow, why do I share that story? I was like it reminded me so much of some of the things that we did with our kids out in nature, whether it's a nature walk, or just going out and looking, maybe even at the stars at nighttime. But she loved going on a walk. This was not a fast walk. This was a slow walk we talked, we visited, and I saw wonder, curiosity, and learning. And that does not come from a book or a worksheet.So nature walks are just such a simple, beautiful, powerful tool for your homeschool. And you can use it with all different ages, all at the same time as well.Why Nature Walks Are So ValuableWhy are they so valuable? Well, with your kids, they're going to help your kids slow down and observe. You know, you might go to a park, you know we've got a park over here, and you can wander through this trail, and there's brush everywhere, and you'll see all different kinds of leaves and plants. And actually, a few years ago, the girl, my 8 year old, her sister. They were both with me, and we're going down there, and the next day I find out she got a tick, and I was like, well, she's the only one that climbed a tree while we were out there, and so, but they slow down and they start to notice things.You can they can ask questions and maybe spark curiosity. I really had every intention of going back here and doing a little research with her about roly-polies and then rolling up, and then, when we got home, we had to get ready to take her to the doctor, and things sort of got busy. With your kids also, this can build a lifelong love of God's creation. God is the great Creator. So let them be out in that.Benefits for MomWith moms, you, mom, it'll help you get out of the house. It can refresh you mentally and emotionally. I think fresh air does wonders. I mean, sometimes I go on walks every day pretty much, but sometimes I just want to pray, and I go out. I've got a little circle drive, and I just walk back and forth 2 or 3 times, just going outside can refresh you. I remember when I did have Covid several years ago. I didn't feel good for about a couple days, but the one thing I did do is I went outside and walked up and down the driveway because fresh air and sunshine does something for you.This also gives you a chance to bond with your kids in ways that curriculum cannot. You don't have that curriculum pressure. Even 15 to 30 minutes a week can shift the tone of your home school. Romans 1:20 says God reveals his invisible qualities through what he has made. And think about it. It's not even that. It's not just what we see. But a lot of times as I'm coming home from my prayer walk, I hear this morning I hear the birds singing to each other and to me. That's just I'm like, wow! Thank you, God. And so it's not just our sight but what we hear, maybe what we touch. She could feel that little roly poly and its little legs, or whatever walking around on her hand.How to Do a Nature WalkSo lots of different ways that we can use nature walks to learn. So how do we do a nature walk? First simple, maybe just walk around the block or your backyard, or if there's a close by park. My other daughter used to live well, they both they still she still lives close to a park, but one of them you would walk down this sidewalk with trees and bushes and ponds and everything, and and that was just actually really cool.I remember one time my 6 year old granddaughter Landry. She was probably 2 or 3 at the time, and I was pushing her in the stroller, and I was like Landry, look, there's a rabbit! And we watched that rabbit run away, and the next time I was driving, driving, pushing her to the park. The next day I was like you could hear going, "Bunny, come here, Bunny, come here" yelling at the top of her voice, but she remembered there were bunnies. Actually, when I went on, I don't know which walk it was with Elizabeth last week we saw 2 bunnies right there. It was so cool, you know, and so you can take those experiences and go home and learn more.What to Bring on Nature WalksYou could take a nature journal. I was looking for my nature journal. One of the kids and I couldn't find it beforehand. Might take a magnifying glass or a Ziploc bag. Crayons might even take a phone to take pictures. I will say we went we had a natural scavenger hunt. And a couple years ago, when I did take the kids to the park, and we walked there. They each had a crayon and the scavenger hunt. So they were looking for things, and I do have a resource for you. It is nature it's a nature journal, and I think that's where I got this particular page. And it's just a fun way to keep track of what you're seeing, and there's lots of different things in that nature journal. You can look in the show notes to be able to get the link to that.Following Your Kids' LeadSo you can take some supplies if you want, or just go for a walk, let them lead, look for what they are interested in. It might be roly polys. I was interested in the bunny. She's like, "Oh, we have bunnies in our backyard." So I was like, okay, and it's not like they live in the country, but there are bunnies around there, you know. But what are they interested in? Bugs, leaves, clouds, tracks? Do they see some tracks in on the path? And let them lead and then create a rhythm. Maybe just once a week you go, and this is something the whole family can do. Even your high schoolers could go with you on a nature walk. You could have nature walk Fridays, maybe.Integrating Nature Walks into HomeschoolNow, how do we take this nature walk and integrate it into homeschool. I think, personally, just going on the walk is homeschooling. But let's talk about some academics in science. You can have observation. You can look at ecosystems or habitats, insects, weather, plant life, lots of different ways. You can tie it together.You could have them write. You could have them come back and keep a journal and write down, maybe draw what they saw, and label the parts of a bug, or whatever she did say. This is an insect. We could have had her draw a roly-poly label the part. They could write a poem, they could have a descriptive paragraph. There's several ways you could do that.Art. This is one thing we would do, and they could sketch what they see in nature. You could take your watercolors with you to a park and let them watercolor whatever they're looking at. Leaf rubbings are super easy way, especially for young kids as well.Bible and Other Subject ConnectionsYou could tie it to Bible. I've already mentioned the great Creator of God. You could study creation in Genesis One talk about the seasons, or read passages such as Psalm 19. The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech. Night after night they reveal knowledge, they have no speech, they use no words, no sound is heard from them, yet their voice goes out into all the earth the words to the ends of the world. In the heavens God has pitched a tent, for the sun is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber like a champion rejoicing to run the race. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit together. Nothing is deprived of its warmth. Talk about that. Use some of this for copy work as well.Geography. You could learn what the native plants and animals are in your region. PE let's face it. Just going on a walk is physical movement, exercise. They may dance, they may run, they may do whatever, but they're moving, and that's PE so many ways you could tie it into your academics.Building Relationships Through NatureOne of my favorite things is, nature walks, build relationships through nature, just walking side by side opens up conversation. Sometimes when you're face to face. They're a little afraid to say something, but if you're both walking in the same direction, or all of us. You may come up with topics that you may not normally talk about, because it's not that face to face tension.Time in nature can help regulate some emotions. There's usually less fussing, although sometimes they I want this. I want that. But there's just more connection. Usually when we're walking, you can use it to connect, not just with your kids, but also with God, and talk about the things that God has made. Let your kids know you see what they see. Well, tell me more about that bug. Tell me more about that. What do you see here? What colors are they?So one of the things my kids are like. "Yes, mom, you tell us every year we have oak trees." So in the winter all the leaves fall looks dead. But I love watching in spring. It just has these little dots that eventually turn into oak leaves, and I'm like "Y'all let's go look!" And each day let's draw what we see, and I think, after saying that for several years they got tired of me. But anyway.Cultivating ThankfulnessBut one of the most important things I think you can do is use your nature walks to cultivate thankfulness, to cultivate gratitude. They are a built in way to practice gratitude, and maybe, as you're walking, ask each child. I want you to tell me 3 things that you're thankful for on this walk. And just, and you know not a lot of pressure. But they can say whatever it is, model your own thankfulness aloud. I'm so thankful for the blue sky.I mean on my way home from my walk. I'm like. Thank you for the purpose. Sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me. Ignore that but thank you for the sunshine. Thank you for the rain. Thank you today that I got to walk in before it started raining 5 minutes after I got home. So look for things, you know. And going back to the roly-poly story that even a tiny bug leads to a sense of wonder and gratitude, and we can slow down, and that can help them be thankful.The ChallengeJust something to consider. You don't need an elaborate plan. You don't need an elaborate science unit. Just take a walk. Let your kids explore, ask a few questions and thank God for what you see together. So I'm going to challenge you. Plan one nature walk this week and just see what your kids discover.I do have a free nature journal. It's normally $10. But you can get it free through this podcast and there'll be a special link in the show notes that you can use, and I do have another blog post that'll be in the show notes about rest and renewal for mom, because I really think getting outside helps a lot.Resource RecommendationsIf you're watching on the video, I'm going to show you a few things. This was sort of overall our go-to book. It is big. Look at that Handbook of Nature Study, but that's the microscope wheel. Or you couldn't use a microscope. You can see it has all sorts of stuff in here. We've got insects. We've got plants how to begin a plant study, weeds, garden flowers, trees, climate weather. This is just a go to that you can do. There'll be a link there in the show notes.Now, these are for younger kids. Usborne puts out the First Book of Nature, and I'll let you just see it's very simple. And it is going. This is actually, I think, a combination of 3 or 4 books, and it has birds, trees, flowers, butterflies, and moths, wild animals, fishes, and creepy crawlies, so that's a great one. I don't even know if this is still in print, but we'll look for a link and put it there and then.Christian liberty has some nature readers. This is book one you can see, very simple. So this is a coyote. The coyote trick. Let's see what we have the bear's coat, and it's just simple reading for a young reader. Then we can move to. This is Book 4. And you can see this is more like stories. Well, what is that? I don't know what that is. So let's see if we find something. Oh, it's a moth, anyway, you can, if there's reading on that level. And this covers a lot of different areas as well, it's got. Looks like 10 or 15 different animals in this one. So we'll put links to all of those in the show notes.ClosingMost of all have fun, build relationships and enjoy yourself. Get out of being in front of your phone. Don't even take your don't even take your camera. Don't take your phone. Be away from your phone for just a little while, enjoy your kids, build relationships both with each other and with God. And just see what your kids discover. Hey, I am Kerry Beck, with homeschool coffee break. We'll talk to you next time.

Need some fresh ideas to keep your kids learning this summer—without pulling out the curriculum bins? Whether you're a year-round homeschooler or ready for a much-needed break, there are simple, creative ways to make summer learning fun, meaningful, and totally stress-free.From read-alouds to banana caterpillars, this episode is packed with tips that encourage curiosity, build character, and keep everyone engaged (without screens!). We're talking:✅How to build a summer reading rhythm the whole family loves✅Why boredom is actually good for your kids (really!)✅Tips to combat negative attitudes with God's Word✅Fun weekly learning ideas with zero worksheets✅How to set family reading goals with big rewardsGrab Read Aloud Book List mentioned in this episode to make your summer easier and more fun!Resources Mentioned:Read Aloud Book List Cell Pizza Oreo Moon PhasesSummer Science Experiments

Feeling overwhelmed by grumbling kids, comparison, or stress in your homeschool? In this episode, we talk about the power of being thankful for what you have—even in hard seasons—and how it can transform your heart, your home, and your family.You'll hear personal stories, powerful Scripture, and practical steps you can take to build a daily gratitude habit. This episode will help you fight overwhelm and experience the joy that comes when you shift from complaining to contentment.✅Learn the science-backed benefits of gratitude✅Hear how Kerry's 10,000 gratitude journal entries shaped her mindset✅Get 3 simple tips for creating a family gratitude habit✅Discover practical ways to help your kids choose gratitude over grumbling✅Be encouraged with real-life stories of thankfulness in hard seasons

If you're wondering where to start homeschooling, the answer may surprise you—look in the mirror. In this episode, we talk about why your own education as a mom is the first and most important step in your homeschool journey. Education and leadership don't begin with lesson plans—they begin with you.You'll hear why your kids will follow your lead more than your curriculum, and how a simple growth routine can shape your homeschool for the better. Whether you're a new homeschool mom or simply looking to refresh your perspective, this episode will help you take a powerful first step.Here's what we cover:✅Why Charlotte Mason said, “There is no education but self-education”✅The simple 3-step plan Kerry used for personal growth ✅How to model a love of reading and lifelong learning for your kids ✅How reading, journaling, and sharing weekly simplifies your homeschool and gives YOU freedom to study what is important to your family ✅Why summer is the perfect time to start your growth habit

What's the #1 thing you can do to raise confident Christian leaders? Teach your kids to own their education. Independent learning isn't just a homeschool perk—it's a leadership training ground.In this episode, we explore how independent learning shapes responsible, motivated, Christ-centered leaders. You'll hear stories, examples, and practical steps you can start using today. ✅Why independent learning builds leadership and responsibility ✅What Charlotte Mason and Benjamin Franklin can teach us about self-motivated kids ✅The shift from teacher to coach—and how it sets your kids free ✅Practical ways to build ownership in your homeschool ✅How real work and self-direction grow lifelong learners

When life is busy and homeschooling feels overwhelming, it's easy to fall back on textbooks just to get through the day. But if you're ready for a more meaningful approach, this episode will show you how to be a lifelong learner—and raise kids who love learning too.We're breaking down the mindset shifts and practical steps that help you get off the educational conveyor belt and spark curiosity, creativity, and deep thinking in your homeschool.✅The real reason textbooks feel safe—and what to use instead✅How curiosity fuels lasting learning far beyond any test✅Easy ways to integrate your child's interests into daily lessons✅The 4-step method to develop real-world learners and leaders✅Why boredom might be the best gift you can give your kidsGrab the free class mentioned in the episode to go even deeper!Resources Mentioned:Homeschool Freedom Bootcamp - May 13-234 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders in Your Homeschool (FREE Masterclass)Want help starting these conversations? Grab my free 3-Step Chart to Develop Critical Thinking Skills.Use Read Aloud Book List for suggested readingsShow Notes:

Every day, your kids face choices—from what to eat for lunch to how to treat others. And as homeschool moms, we want to raise children who make wise, godly decisions… but how do we actually teach them how to make good choices?In this episode, we talk about how to help your kids develop discernment, wisdom, and decision-making skills through stories, conversations, and daily life moments rooted in Biblical truth.✅Why wisdom matters more than knowledge alone✅ A simple, homeschool-friendly way to teach discernment✅What King Solomon can teach your kids about making wise decisions✅ How to create a “wisdom culture” in your family

Homeschool burnout is real—and if you've ever felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, or just plain exhausted, this episode is for you. You don't need a rigid schedule or a packed curriculum to be a “good homeschooler.” You need peace, purpose, and a plan that fits your family.Let's talk about how to simplify your homeschool, focus on relationships, and stop chasing perfection. These mindset shifts and practical tips will help you prevent burnout and enjoy the journey again. ✅ Why homeschool burnout happens (and how to recognize it) ✅ Simple shifts that bring peace to your homeschool days ✅ The power of rhythms vs. rigid schedules ✅ How to focus on relationships over checklists ✅ Real examples from Charlotte Mason, Finland, and more

What if you didn't have to force your kids through every lesson? What if they actually wanted to learn? That's the power of curiosity learning—and in this episode, we're talking about how to go from forced lessons to self-motivated learning.You'll hear simple mindset shifts and practical tips to create an environment where your kids want to explore, ask questions, and dive deep into what fascinates them. Yes, it really is possible! ✅How to follow your kids' interests without losing structure ✅Real-life examples of how to spark motivation using everyday tools ✅Why curiosity is hardwired into your kids—and how to nurture it ✅The problem with rigid curriculum and checklist-style learning ✅What Albert Einstein's childhood can teach us about homeschooling

Want to make Easter day the most joyful, faith-filled celebration of the year? In this episode, we're sharing simple ways to start & finish the day focused on Jesus—without adding stress to your day. ✅ Start with Sunrise Worship – Ideas for family prayer, praise, and Scripture reading. ✅ Resurrection Breakfast – Fun, hands-on ways to connect faith and food. ✅ Jesus-Centered Easter Traditions – Balancing egg hunts with a resurrection focus. ✅ A Simple Easter Challenge – Encourage kids to share the Gospel!

Are you looking for simple, hands-on ways to teach your kids about Holy Week? As busy moms, we want to make Easter meaningful, but finding fun and faith-filled activities can be a challenge. That's why I've gathered four easy Holy Week activities to help your family focus on Jesus from Palm Sunday to Resurrection Sunday!✅ Palm Sunday Parade – Make palm branches & shout "Hosanna!"✅ The Last Supper Meal – Take communion & talk about Jesus' sacrifice.✅ The Darkness of Good Friday – A simple but powerful object lesson.✅ Resurrection Rolls Activity – A visual way to explain the empty tomb!

Are you looking for simple, hands-on ways to teach your kids about Holy Week?As busy moms, we want Easter to be meaningful, but finding engaging, faith-filled activities can feel overwhelming. That's why I've gathered simple, hands-on ideas to bring the Easter story to life in your homeschool! Your kids will love these Easter homeschool activities.✅ Read as a Family Daily – Use the easiest tool in your homeschool tool belt to inspire your kids' faith in Jesus✅ Discussion Questions That Spark Faith – Open-ended prompts to help kids process Jesus' sacrifice.✅ Hands-On Easter Crafts – Create cross crafts, a resurrection garden, or Stations of the Cross.

Does Easter sneak up on you every year? Between homeschooling, daily tasks, and family activities, it's easy to feel too busy to slow down and focus on Jesus. But Easter is the greatest day of the year—and I don't want you to miss it!In today's episode, we'll talk about: ✅ Why Easter is more than bunnies and eggs—it's about Jesus' victory over sin. ✅ How busyness can steal our joy and keep us distracted from Jesus. ✅ How to overcome that busyness and focus on what's most important ✅ 3 simple ways to prepare your heart for Easter—even when life is chaotic.✨ Join me for this episode and discover how to refocus on Jesus this Easter!

Are you ready to boost your homeschool art and music lessons? In this episode, we dive into fun, simple strategies to integrate music and art into your daily homeschool routine—no matter your child's age. Whether you're teaching littles, elementary, middle, or older kids, you'll find practical tips to get started without feeling intimidated.In this episode, you'll discover:✅How to stop being intimidated with music & art in your homeschool✅Simple tips to weave art and music into your existing lessons✅Fun activities to help your kids remember and memorize key concepts✅Where to find free demonstrations that make teaching music and homeschool art a breezeJoin us and transform your homeschool with engaging, hands-on ideas that will make your lessons come alive!Resources: Music & Art Homeschool SummitThe Composer DetectiveThe Artist DetectiveJustina Thurston of Jus' Classical is the host of the Music & Art Homeschool Summit and Bundle. She is a musician, video and course creator, and songwriter. She has a degree in music therapy and has worked as an early childhood music teacher for over 20 years. At her church, she also helps with the music ministry, playing oboe in the orchestra, and teaching Sunday school to early elementary-aged children, using her Westminster Shorter Catechism songs. Justina is also a blessed wife and homeschooling mom of three.At Jus' Classical, she seeks to encourage other homeschool moms and families, especially in focusing on Christ, and in enjoying classical music and great art through her courses, like The Composer Detective, a music appreciation course for families, The Artist Detective, an art appreciation course for families, Making Music with Handel, a music fundamentals and tin whistle course, and Drawing with Rembrandt, a beginning drawing course. She brings them all together for families to get both music and art in the Jus' Classical Fine Arts Membership.WebsiteYouTubeFacebookFacebook groupInstagramPinterest

Homeschooling is more than just finishing lesson plans—it's about shaping lifelong learners. If you've ever wondered, “Am I doing enough?” or “Are my kids learning what they need?” this episode is for you. You'll discover the mindset shift that will help you finish the homeschool year with confidence and purpose.I'll share three key strategies to help you let go of stress and focus on what truly matters. Plus, don't miss the free class at the end, designed to give you the tools for homeschool success with peace and success!In this episode, you'll discover✅ Learn why shifting from productivity to purpose changes everything.✅ Discover how real books and meaningful conversations create deeper learning.✅ Find the secret to mentoring your kids, not just teaching them.✅ Get access to a free class to help you finish the homeschool year strong!Resources Mentioned3 Tips for Homeschooling Moms to Finish Strong this Year {FREE Class}

We know our kids will continue having to eat every day of their lives, and we all want to raise independent adults. Come learn about the vast benefits your kids will experience when they learn to cook and get strategies to make it work in your busy life.From therapeutic creativity to the exposure bucket that banishes picky eating, from the biggest mistake parents make when bringing their kids in the kitchen to the 3-step superpower process to build skills safely, your parenting toolbox will be overflowing after this session.In this episode, discover✅ 3 steps to building confidence in the kitchen✅ Biggest mistake parents make when they bring their kids in the kitchen✅ 3 steps to build safety skills in the kitchen✅ How to use the exposure bucket to stop picky eatingDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

We're excited to introduce our partner, Unbound BCS, and share their inspiring work in combating human trafficking. Join Kerry as she interviews Naomi Rijpstra, director of Unbound Now BCS, for a candid conversation that shows how trust and relationships pave the way for healing and safety. You'll find out different types of trafficking and the 3 keys of Unbound's mission.Don't miss this opportunity to learn about upcoming classes for parents and students and discover practical tools to keep your loved ones safe. Tune in and be part of a movement that empowers our community!In this episode, discover✅ Unbound's Mission: Learn how Unbound Now is fighting human trafficking and supporting survivors.✅ Trust & Relationships: Discover why building strong bonds is key to healing.✅ Community Outreach: Get insights into their training and outreach programs.✅ Upcoming Classes: Find out about special sessions designed for parents and students at the Life Skills Leadership Summit (Feb 24-28, 2025).The Life Skills Leadership Summit is donating 5% of their profits to Unbound Now. When you upgrade to VIP, you are helping Unbound Now fight human trafficking. Some of our speakers are also donating 5% of their commissions, which I will also match another 5%.Upgrading to VIP is about more than lifetime access or the bundle. You'll also be helping Unbound stop human trafficking and journey with survivors.Upgrade hereDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic PassNaomi Rijpstra, LMSW is the Director of Programs for Unbound Now in Bryan College Station (BCS). In her current role she carries out the mission and vision of Unbound Now in BCS providing leadership for staff and overseeing BCS' programs including the Brazos Valley Human trafficking Task Force. Naomi received her Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Baylor. Naomi provides specialized training both within the organization for staff and externally for partner agencies. She was born and raised in The Netherlands and has worked as a Social Worker for over 12 years with different populations in different settings both abroad and in the states. Naomi is passionate about equipping the community so that they can help identify victims and foster healing and growth to survivors as she believes relationships are the agent of change. Resources Mentioned: Unbound BCS VolunteerRequest Training for Your Group (church, co-op, neighborhood, etc)DonateNight of Hope Fund Raiser Kerry: Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with Life Skills Leadership Summit. If you've been around me, you know I love partnering with great organizations. Today, I have the privilege of talking to Naomi, the director of our local Unbound group. You may not know much about them, but you're going to learn a lot. Naomi, thanks so much for being here today.Naomi: Yes, thanks for having me, Kerry.Kerry: Well, I'm not going to sit here and just talk—I'm going to ask you all the hard questions and put you on the spot. I was going to ask you beforehand how to say your last name properly since I never got it right.Naomi: I know people always get uncomfortable announcing it, but my last name is Rijpstra.Kerry: There you go! Letting you say it is so much better than getting it wrong. I've known about Unbound and participated with them, even back when I was on the prayer team at church. My heart goes out to what they do—fighting against human trafficking. So, let's get started. Naomi, tell people a little bit about yourself and Unbound, and how you connected with them.Naomi: Sure. First, I want to say thank you so much for being involved with Unbound. You've been around as long as I have, involved in so many ways, and we're really grateful for that. I started with Unbound in 2021—so that's four years ago. I'm originally from the Netherlands, where I worked as a social worker with diverse populations. I came to the States, and that's when I first encountered trafficking. I began working as a house parent at a ranch for girls who were trafficked. That was my introduction to understanding the trauma of human trafficking. I never thought that would be God's journey for me, but that's how it works.Since then, over more than ten years, I've worked in the anti-trafficking field both in the Netherlands and here in Texas. After graduating from Baylor University with my master's in social work, I joined Unbound. I already knew about Unbound through the founder of our location—I loved their work and vision. I started as the Director of Survivor Advocacy, and last year I became the director.At Unbound, our mission is to support survivors of human trafficking—both sex and labor trafficking—and to provide resources to the community to combat trafficking and ignite hope. Unbound began when some brave women in a Waco church started praying. The founder, Susan Peters, felt compelled after her overseas experience to say, "Oh my gosh! This is trafficking. We need to do something." Then they realized it wasn't just overseas—it was here in our state. So, they started with prayer, moved quickly into prevention outreach, and began working with the first survivor. Since then, we've expanded to six locations in Texas, two in Louisiana, and two offices overseas in Mongolia and Poland.Kerry: That's incredible. So, what do you do to support survivors and resource the community?Naomi: We focus on three key areas. First is training and outreach. We provide community training about human trafficking—what it is, what it looks like, how it happens, and what to do. We offer this training to anyone interested, and also provide specialized training for law enforcement, social workers, counselors, hotel staff, hospital staff—basically, anyone who might interact with potential victims. We also train volunteers who go out to local businesses, distributing flyers and raising awareness. Additionally, we're part of coalitions and a Human Trafficking Task Force here in the Brazos Valley, working with the sheriff's office on proactive investigations and outreach.The second area is youth prevention. We visit juvenile detention centers regularly, spending time with both girls and boys. We build relationships and work through a curriculum that covers human trafficking, social media, safe relationships, and more—helping them recognize red flags and stay safe.The third area is survivor services. We have a 24/7 crisis referral line with seven trained advocates, including three bilingual ones, who respond to calls from community partners, law enforcement, and survivors. They provide immediate crisis response, often at hospitals, and then offer long-term advocacy by connecting survivors with community resources and building trust-based relationships. This ongoing support is essential, as many survivors struggle to feel safe and trust the people around them.Kerry: That was awesome, Naomi. I've heard different perspectives on what you do, and I always learn something new. I know some homeschool or Christian moms might say, “This wouldn't happen in my city,” but as you explained, it's happening everywhere—even here in the United States, not just overseas.We're recording this right after the Super Bowl. I remember learning about human trafficking during a snowstorm in Dallas after the Super Bowl, and it really opened my eyes. Do you notice more activity during big events, like sports tournaments, when people need to be more alert?Naomi: It's always a common question. I don't have data to prove a trend, but trafficking happens regardless of events. Many people assume trafficking happens only when a kid is kidnapped, but research shows that less than 7% of cases involve kidnapping. Most of the time, it happens within relationships—someone the victim trusts, like a family member, or through online grooming. So while big events might make people more alert, trafficking is an ongoing issue that we must always be aware of.Kerry: That's so important. You also mentioned that people often think trafficking only affects girls and women, but men and boys can be trafficked too. Can you talk about that a bit?Naomi: Absolutely. We serve both males and females. Just yesterday, I was speaking with a survivor leader who explained that he was trafficked because he identified as LGBTQ. He was rejected by his family and became vulnerable. There's a significant stigma around male victimization, as society expects men to be protectors. This stigma makes it even harder for them to identify as victims or seek help, and there are fewer resources available for men. We need to overcome these barriers because there are many male victims too.Kerry: Okay, can you share a quick success story? I know some listeners might feel burdened, but it's important to hear that many people who go through Unbound find success and healing.Naomi: Sure. Last year, we served 174 clients, which is a testament to the impact of our work. One story that stands out is about a youth who was referred to us—not because she was trafficked, but because there was significant concern about her situation. She ran away, and though she was initially labeled a missing child, our task force and her advocate brought together all the necessary partners. Within a few days, we found her in another state. She had been a victim of human trafficking while away from home. Now, she's doing well, receiving ongoing services, and working through her trauma. We're so proud of her journey toward healing and restoration.Kerry: That's amazing. We want to get people out of trafficking and help them heal, and that's exactly what Unbound and its survivor advocates are doing by building trust and long-term relationships. For those of you who might not know, this week we have two classes—one for parents and one for students—that have been eye-opening for many. Could you give us a snippet of what to expect?Naomi: Yes. On Wednesday, parents will meet with Laura, who will explain what trafficking looks like, how to recognize it, and what steps to take to keep students safe—practical tools, essentially. Then, on Thursday, Laura will meet with the students at an age-appropriate level to cover similar topics, including red flags and healthy relationships. We always start with parents so they're informed, and then we encourage conversations between parents and students.Kerry: That's excellent. I highly recommend these classes. For anyone concerned, we suggest the content is best for 6th grade and up. And for those wanting to support Unbound financially, when you upgrade from the Free Pass to the VIP Pass, I donate 5% of our profits, and several speakers donate 5% of their commissions, which I match—sometimes making it up to 15%. For anyone wanting to donate directly, where can they find you?Naomi: Our website is unboundow.org. There, you can learn about who we are, what we do, volunteer options, request training for your church or community, and even donate. Also, don't miss our upcoming annual fundraiser, Night of Hope, on March 28th. It's a powerful event with survivors sharing their stories and community partners coming together. Tickets are available on our website.Kerry: That sounds great. Thank you so much, Naomi, for sharing all of this. It's a heavy topic, but your work is so important, and I appreciate you helping to spread the word. Hopefully, more people will understand that this issue is happening right in their backyard.Naomi: Thanks for letting me share, Kerry.Kerry: All right, I'm Kerry Beck with Life Skills Leadership Summit. We'll talk to you next time.

“Nice Nerds”—that is what people think of Christian homeschoolers. It's a better reputation than the public schools, but not good enough to compete with the prep schoolers who run America, and the world. Leadership is the hallmark of an elite prep school education, and it shows—our last four Presidents: Bush, Obama, Trump, and now Biden, were all prep schoolers, not to mention billionaire tycoons like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk.In this interview, Britton LaTulippe gives real life examples in raising children for greatness. He will draw from his leadership training in prep school and the US Army Special Forces Qualification Course to show homeschoolers how to transform “nice nerds” into kingly Charlemagnes, Christian men and women who lead their teams to victory no matter the odds!In this episode, discover✅ 8 C's of Leadership✅ How to raise kids to lead teams✅ Why an elite education is imperative for our childrenDiscover more about leadership for children when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

We know our kids will continue having to eat every day of their lives, and we all want to raise independent adults. Come learn about the vast benefits your kids will experience when they learn to cook and get strategies to make it work in your busy life.From therapeutic creativity to the exposure bucket that banishes picky eating, from the biggest mistake parents make when bringing their kids in the kitchen to the 3-step superpower process to build skills safely, your parenting toolbox will be overflowing after this session.In this episode, discover✅ 3 steps to building confidence in the kitchen✅ Biggest mistake parents make when they bring their kids in the kitchen✅ 3 steps to build safety skills in the kitchen✅ How to use the exposure bucket to stop picky eatingResources:Selling on Etsy Masterclass for TeensDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

Thirty years ago, we wouldn't believe our culture is talking about changing genders, but that's where we are. How do you navigate these issues with your tweens and teens? Dannah Gresh, of True Girl, offers encouragement and practical advice you can use immediately. We discuss your tweens/teens identity in Christ, preparing your children for future conversations in the world, and even pronouns to use. If you have children of any age, you need Kerry's interview with Dannah. You will walk away with tools to help your kids stand up for Truth and build their heart on God's plan.In this episode, discover✅ How to guide your tweens and teens to anchor their identity in Christ amidst cultural pressures✅ Tools for navigating tough conversations✅ How to handle pronouns with grace and truth withr a balanced approach to addressing pronouns while staying rooted in your values✅ Actionable steps to prepare your kids to face future conversations with courage and clarity.Stop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

As we continue our Best of LSLS”, let's talk about the foundation of good leadership, where to start raising leaders, not followers. Godly character is the foundation for academic success, as well as success in life and raising a leader for the future.Discover how character is learned and how to establish a plan for teaching it to your children. Kathie will give several creative ways you can encourage your children to develop in this important area. After hearing this, you will be motivated, and full of ideas to use with your own children.In this episode, discover✅ An actionable plan to help you instill godly character in their children.✅ The ripple effect of character so your children can prepare them to influence and lead others in the future.✅ Motivation to take action with fresh ideas to implement character education in your homeschool.Stop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

We often can become so focused on “covering the basics” that we forget the importance of filling our homeschool days with truth, beauty, and goodness- then we wonder why homeschooling can feel so draining! In this “Best of LSLS” episode, Julie Ross, the creator of A Gentle Feast, will explore how we can easily add more beauty in our days through nourishing routines and rhythms that will breathe life into our homes. Julie will show you how poetry, art, music, etc. are just as vital as any other subject in the educational feast. In fact, they are absolutely essential if our goal as homeschoolers is to develop students that are whole persons and magnanimous citizens that can bless the world with living ideas and love to learn for knowledge's sake through the rest of their lives.In this episode, discover✅ How you can and should go beyond the basics of academics✅ The power of nourishing rhythms✅ Why truth, beauty, and goodness matter and how you can easily incorporate them into your daily routine, without overwhelm✅ 5 ways to add beauty easily into your daily homeschoolStop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year's 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass

In this episode, Kerry discusses the importance of raising leaders in homeschooling. Leadership encompasses more than just academics; it encompasses character, thinking skills and relationships. She outlines four key aspects of a leader: godly character and vision, a lifetime learner with both tools and love of learning, critical thinking and decision-making skills, and communication skills. Kerry also introduces the upcoming Life Skills Leadership Summit, a free event in February that will cover various leadership and life skills topics.In this episode, discover✅ What leadership really is and why you should be raising leaders✅ 3 steps to helping your kids become the best leaders possible✅ 2 simple strategies for homeschooling kids who become lifetime learnersResources Mentioned:Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic PassFree Class: 3 Tips to Finish Strong in Your Homeschool

When we think of being good parents, we think of giving our kids a good education and growing them spiritually. But, we are also called to care for our kids' health as well. One of those ways to care for your family's health is with homeopathy. Today, Amanda Pelser, shares her story and how homeopathy is their solution to health concerns. In this episode, you'll discover:✅ What is homeopathy✅ How homeopathy fits well with homeschooling✅ What is Biblical homeopathy✅ How you can get started using homeopathyMentioned Resources:Free quick start guide to using homeopathy Consults Amanda Pelser is a wife, a homeschooling mom of four boys, and an aspiring homesteader. After finding herself bedridden with chronic pain, fatigue, and autoimmune conditions, Amanda was left hopeless by the conventional medical community. Desperate for a change, she used her background as a seminary-trained researcher to integrate her Christian faith with the practice of homeopathy and reclaim her health. With 10+ years of experience using homeopathy, now, as a certified homeopath, Amanda gives hope to Christian moms who are ready to find biblically aligned health for themselves and their families

Celebrate Epiphany with your family through hands-on activities that bring the story of the Wise Men to life. In this episode, we'll explore creative crafts, thought-provoking questions, and global traditions to help your children understand the meaning of this special day. Learn how to incorporate the gifts of the Wise Men and act out the Nativity story together. Make Epiphany unforgettable with these fun and meaningful activities:✅ Questions to ponder during the 12 days of Christmas until Epiphany✅ 8 activities for families to celebrate Epiphany✅ Feast of Epiphany ideas✅ Create crafts like crown and star ornaments, stained glass windows, and glittery gifts✅ Explore the symbolism of frankincense, myrrh, and gold with sensory activities✅ Act out the Nativity story and discuss its significance with thought-provoking questions✅ Discover global Epiphany traditions and bring them into your own celebrationMentioned Links:Christmas Celebrations EbookStar of Bethlehem Family Bible Study EbookPosts to Help with Epiphany:Epiphany Traditions from our FamilyItalian Feast of Epiphany

Before you celebrate at church today or tomorrow, let's take a look at two of my favorite Christmas carols. Often, we sing these songs, without paying attention to their meaning. Let's not do that this year.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ A hidden verse in a popular Christmas carol ✅ The significance of phrases and words✅ Beautiful descriptions of Jesus that you can share or teach to your kids.Mentioned Links: O Come, O Come Emmanuel - 8 questions to discussFree Christmas Unit Study

Advent is more than the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. As believers, your advent should look different from the world's advent of shopping, baking and lots of activities. What tips can you get from today's episode✅ What is Advent season ✅ How would Christians celebrate Advent as a family✅ Practical tips you can prepare your heart and your kids' hearts for Christmas✅ How to use advent calendarsMentioned Links: Best Christmas Books to Read Aloud during Advent, including Jotham's Journey, our family favorite! Christmas Celebrations EbookChristmas Around the World Unit StudyStar of Bethlehem Family Bible StudyAdvent Wreath & Devotional Christmas Nativity Finger PuppetsChristmas Memory Match Game & DevotionalHow to Use an Advent Wreath (Free Advent Calendar Printable)

December is the perfect month to take a break from formal homeschooling and integrate Christmas into your kids' learning. The place to start is by learning simple Christmas around the world traditions that you can use in your December homeschool.My friend, Bonnie Rose, offers some easy and simple ideas you can use this year. In fact, I suggest you choose 4 countries this year. One for each week … then choose 2 Christmas around the world traditions for that country to do one week. Use the four weeks of Advent do learn about four countries and their Christmas around the world traditions.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ 2 very simple activities you can use to learn how others around the world celebrate Christmas✅ How other countries use a Christmas tree, when they don't have pine trees✅ What type of nativity set to use with your kids✅ The number one thing that ties believers around the world at ChristmasResources Mentioned:Christmas Recipes & CraftsChristmas Homeschool Units (50% off through 12/31/24): Bonnie Rose Hudson is the owner and publisher of WriteBonnieRose. She serves homeschoolers and home educators around the world by creating practical resources that are fun, affordable, and easy to use. She has written for numerous publications and educational websites and has hundreds of resources in many subject areas for preschool through high school on WriteBonnieRose.com.

Feeling overwhelmed this season? As homeschool and Christian moms, the holidays can bring stress, worries about finances, family tensions, or even feelings of loss. Let's face it. The holidays are tough at times. God calls us to be thankful, even in the tough times, but how do you do it?You're stressed out from all the thingsWorried how to pay when there is more month than moneyYou keep arguing with your spouseIt's your turn to host your in-laws are Friends "look" like they have the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas Someone will be missing at Thanksgiving or Christmas this year A loved one (or you) have chronic illnessIn this episode, you'll discover:✅ How to trade the holiday overwhelm for a heart of gratitude✅ 3 steps to being thankful when the holidays are hard✅ A simple daily tool that can change complaining to thankfulness in your family

With all the hustle & bustle of the holidays, it can be overwhelming. Thankfully, some moms have survived, like Jan Burt. Jan homeschooled her children over 30 years and is quite honest about her ups & downs during holidays. Learn from someone who has gone before you as Jan shares tips to truly survive AND enjoy the holidaysIn this episode, you'll discover:✅ How to curb the temptation to do “all the things” in November & December✅ How to not cave into peer pressure, even within the Church and the Christian community✅ How to plan & schedule your time during the holidays, as a homeschooler✅ How much should you do outside your home during the holidays✅ 4 tips to use with teens during the holidays Resources Mentioned:Homeschool Planning Made SimpleJan L. Burt is an author, speaker, podcaster, married to Tony for 33 years, mom to five adult children, a grandmother and most importantly, a disciple of Jesus. She served in youth ministry alongside her husband for 12 years & is the founder of the Praying Through the Storm Online Prayer Retreat & is the host of the award-winning podcast The Burt (Not Ernie) Show. Her books The Power of God's Will - 40 Days of God's Promises Devotional, The Homeschooling Mother's Bible Study, & A 60-Day Prayer Journal for Parents are available on Amazon. Her audio-based Bible study course on praying & believing the promises God makes to us via Psalm 91 can be found at her website, JanLBurt.com. Stop by her website & grab your download of God's Promises in Isaiah while you're there!The Burt (Not Ernie) Show PodcastThe Power of God's Will - 40 Days of God's Promises DevotionalThe Homeschooling Mothers Bible StudyA 60-Day Prayer Journal for ParentsPsalm 91 Bible Study CourseGod's Promises in Isaiah free download

Forgiveness is not about the other person. It's all for you, your healing, your freedom, your joy, your peace. And it's one of the most important lessons you can teach your children.Today, I'll share personal stories because I've been through the wringer the past 8 years. Lots of experience from rejection and betrayal. Then, show how forgiveness can truly heal and replace bitterness in our livesIn this episode, you'll discover:✅ Why we should always forgive✅ 2 choices we have when we've been rejected, offended, hurt or betrayed✅ What types of offenses should be forgiven✅ Where to find the strength & courage to forgive✅ 2 steps to healing, victory, joy and peaceResources MentionedHow to Forgive When You Don't Feel Like It, by June Hunt Choosing Forgiveness, by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth

Today is Election Day. No matter what the outcome, we can always find something to be thankful for. We can always trust that God is in control. This leads us to use “gratitude” to replace any anxiety or worry we have.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ 3 practical gratitude tips you can use with your family, no matter your kids' ages✅ 2 resources that kids can use to increase their thankfulness ✅ What moms need to do to encourage a grateful spirit in their kids✅ What we all must do, especially when circumstances are falling apartResources Mentioned:30 Day Gratitude ChallengeGratitude Journal for Kids Gratitude Journal Ideas FREE Thanksgiving Bible Study Things to Be Thankful For List

It's that time again…time for our annual 30-Day Gratitude Challenge. To kick it off, I'm sharing some ideas about gratitude and how it can help you (mom) and your family (kids). Gratitude & giving thanks are scattered all through the New Testament. Many sections tell us how to live for Christ and end with “give thanks”. Plus, being thankful is God's will. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God. I Thessalonians 5:17So, mom!Are you modeling a thankful or critical spirit? How are you encouraging your kids to be thankful and not complain? Listen today to get practical tips for your family. Then, sign up for our 30-Day Gratitude ChallengeIn this episode, you'll discover:✅ Biblical perspective of thanksgiving✅ Number one thing a mom can do to get rid of complaining✅ Verses & Truths to encourage gratitude✅ What to fight for in your familyResources Mentioned:30-Day Gratitude Challenge (FREE)Thanksgiving Bible Study (FREE)