Joyfully Homeschooling

This episode includes a big announcement regarding the future of this podcast and ministry.  Show notes can be found at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

This episode was recorded forever ago and I just couldn’t get it fit in. I figured with 2021 on the horizon and many families wondering HOW they can help in the new year now was a perfect time. I have many friends who have done foster care and have even adopted from foster care. Foster parents are some of the BEST people I know. It is a true ministry that is greatly needed today.  In this episode we talk about the legality of foster care and homeschooling, how Christian parents, can minister to teens coming from foster care without “pushing” religion or church onto them, accommodating homeschooling your biological or adopted children while opening your home to foster care and also accommodating those children’s needs/therapies/etc and so much more.  If you have ever considered foster care or are wondering how you can enter into ministry in the new year, this episode is for you.  Podcast Sponsor Biglifejournal.com Show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com 

Today’s episode is a Fess Up Friday episode and I want to share with you one big takeaway. Amy and I talk about second generation homeschooling and how much things have changed from when she was homeschooled to now.  I can see this. And not all of the changes are for the positive. I am realizing after 2020 which I talked some about in my lessons learned episode that we need to go back to the basics a bit. Simpler times. It will make all of our homeschools a lot more joyful.  Amy says, “My identity is in Christ not in my work as a homeschool mom” and I just wanted to yell YES.  We put so much pressure on ourselves for perfection, but guys God did not call us to perfection. If He did, we wouldn’t need HIM. This episode is full of nuggets of wisdom, and I am sure will help you have a more joyful homeschool.  Podcast Sponsor Biglifejournal.com  Show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com   

As I shared in my Q and A episode with Davonne I get questions ALL the time about my family, my homeschool, our traditions, and really everything.  So, I thought it would be fun to answer some basic questions on holidays, our traditions, and what our family likes most about the holidays.  Podcast Sponsor Biglifejournal.com (use code JOYFUL15 for 15% off your order)  Catch show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Kim Santee and I are talking about self-care. She says self-care for her is “creating a life I don’t need to escape from” and guys that speak volumes. What kind of life are you creating? I have had the life that I needed to escape from and it is not fun. We can do better. And it starts by creating time for YOU. No matter how small or mundane it may seem. You know what your body needs, and you can’t pour from an empty cup. We also chat about homeschool regrets, joys and so much more. Don't miss it!  Podcast Sponsor Biglifejournal.com (use code JOYFUL15 for 15% off your order)  Catch show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

This will air after the election, however, I am recording this in October. Before the election. Regardless of how this election turns out, my hope is not in any candidate. It is in the Lord. That is one reason I am airing this now instead of at the end of the year. I want to share some lessons learned from this craziness that has been 2020. Who our hope is really in, how we can move forward and get back to what the world really needs-connection and JESUS. Podcast Sponsor Biglifejournal.com (use code JOYFUL15 for 15% off your order)  Catch show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

How many times does something in your day distract you or your kids and lead you all away from school? Do you long for a more consistent homeschool? I am sharing some tips and encouragement to help you be more consistent in homeschooling.  Show notes: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/consistent-in-homeschooling/

I get asked questions ALL the time and am excited to spend TWO episodes answering YOUR questions with my good friend Davonne Parks. Here are some of the questions we are tackling in this episode. Do you keep everyone on the same schedule all day ? Like 30 minutes for math, an hour for reading , etc I only plan on homeschooling one year what is the best plan for preparing them to go back to public school  Do you follow state standards? Or go with the flow? Do you have a set school space? Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Show notes can be found at Joyfullyhomeschooling.com

I get asked questions ALL the time and am excited to spend TWO episodes answering YOUR questions with my good friend Davonne Parks. Here are some of the questions we are tackling in this episode. What advice do you give moms of littles in their first years of homeschooling? I'm having trouble finding ways to incorporate "fun" into school. I have chalked it up to be that school is our job, which we are ok with, but I still have this nagging feeling that I'm supposed to make school a party. Wishing I hadn't switched curriculum but not having the money to switch back... so just pushing through with what we have. How do I balance her extrovert needs with my introverted ones? I feel we are going through the motions, but question if it is making a difference. Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Show notes can be found at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

High school, it used to give me hives. Now? I am homeschooling two kids in high school, and I am tackling some of YOUR questions with my friend Davonne who is also homeschooling high school. We are answering the following questions:  What were our thoughts on high school when we first started out homeschooling? How have they changed?  How does our children’s high school look like right now?  Will our kids do dual enrollment?  How do you create transcripts?  How do you motivate a teen to care about high school?  How do you know if your kids are getting enough knowledge and experiences?  What are your children's plans for post-high school and how are you preparing them for it?  Catch show notes and more at Joyfullyhomeschooling.com Thank you to our podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History

In today's episode, I am chatting with my good friend Davonne Parks about homeschooling different personalities. Do you have a child that makes homeschooling a tad more difficult than it was with your other kids? We have your back! We both have kids that have different personalities and have struggled with homeschooling. Today we are talking all about homeschooling that child who is so different from our easier firstborn kiddos. Here are a few topics we discuss:  What we learned from having children with different personalities How their homeschools look differently than our other kids.  Why we need to embrace the differences in our kids How we embrace the differences in our kids Catch the show notes at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com and thank you to our podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History  

I get asked fairly often how I work and homeschool. It's a topic that I haven't tackled a whole lot on the blog or podcast because honestly, I like to keep them separate. BUT, I know that many of you right now are struggling with working and homeschooling, so I wanted to bring my friend Davonne Parks (who works outside the home) on the podcast so we can tackle this topic together. Whether you work from home, outside the home, or are struggling with balancing ministry and all the things, this episode will be sure to help you have a more joyful homeschool.  Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Catch show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

So, I hope you guys are enjoying this series. Today it is coming to an end with the method I most wanted to use when I first began homeschooling and that is the Charlotte Mason method. I LOVE so many of Charlotte’s ideas to education and have read books about this method but have never been able to fully implement it into our homeschool. So, I was super excited to chat with this week's guest Amy Fischer about putting it into action.  Amy and I talk habit training, living books, what to do when you have a kid who likes twaddle and so much more. I can’t wait to share this episode with you all!  Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Show notes can be found at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Today I am talking with Dianna Kennedy about the classical method of homeschooling and NO this is not all about CC.  I share in this episode that the only experience I had with Classical education was our local CC group. Dianna really breaks down the idea of classical conversation and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about it from her.  Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Catch show notes at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com  

We are halfway through this series all about homeschool methods. I hope you have enjoyed the series so far. Today I am chatting Literature-Based homeschooling with Kay Chance.  In this episode, Kay and I chat amazing books, natural learning methods, the importance of the 3R’s and so much more. I loved that we had read many of the same books with our kids. This episode is particularly helpful for those looking for ideas to keep your teens reading. Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History Show notes can be found at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Today we are talking with Charlene Hess about the relaxed/digital method of homeschooling. I wasn’t really sure what this would entail before our chat but can honestly say I learned a LOT from Charlene. We may be slightly relaxed/digital. Who knows. We are all over the place.  Charlene and I chat about the all in one style of homeschooling, term scheduling, family schooling online, and what our end goal for homeschooling really needs to be.  This episode is sure to help you have a more joyful and relaxed homeschool.  Thank you to our podcast sponsors, Teaching Textbooks and  Notgrass History Catch show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Today we are kicking off a super fun series all about homeschool methods. I introduced this series a couple of days ago with my favorite homeschool method. In this episode, we talk about unit studies with second-generation homeschooler Heather Haupt. We chat about how you incorporate multiple subjects around one thing by utilizing unit studies. We have dabbled in Unit Studies a few times through the years and are using them fully this year with Gather Round Homeschool. They are a great way to homeschool multiple ages.  If you have ever wondered about unit studies in your homeschool you will enjoy this episode!  Thank you to our Podcast Sponsors Teaching Textbooks and Notgrass History.  See show notes at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Because so many people are homeschooling right now, and because sometimes even after a year or two (or five) of homeschooling you change your method up a bit I wanted to do a series all about the different methods of homeschooling. So, for the month of September, I have SIX episodes all about the homeschool methods. Today I am peeling back the curtain on a day in the life of MY Homeschool. We are eclectic homeschoolers. What does that mean? We use a variety of homeschooling resources. My heart wants to be Charlotte Mason, but the reality is I can’t do it. So, we use a hodgepodge and have some Charlotte Mason tendencies. When it comes to being a homeschool mom, no matter which method of homeschooling you use, there is no magic formula to the perfect day. So, while I hope this series gives you a peek into other homeschool methods, I also hope you remember to not measure your homeschool day with any of ours. We are all just balancing. Doing the best we can, and hoping it’s enough. These peeks into the other methods are just that, a peek, so take a look, learn, and then find the method that works best for you! Podcast Sponsor Gentle Guitar Shownotes can be found at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

Today’s Fess Up Friday interview is with Monica Swanson. I have been a long time listener of Monica's podcast and was SO excited to chat with her today about her homeschool joys, struggles and fears. I love how she can look back on her homeschool years and see one of the biggest gifts homeschooling allowed her to experience-TIME. Thank you to our Podcast Sponsor Gentle Guitar Catch show notes at Joyfullyhomeschooling.com  

I think many of us, as we begin new homeschool years have these BIG plans, and we don't allow ourselves a lot of flexibility, or we are set in our ways and aren't willing to adjust things to better serve the needs of our family. These mistakes, and a few other things I want to share, can make our kids HATE homeschooling. I am sharing what I have learned about how we can get our kids to hate homeschooling in this episode. Moms, I don’t know about you, but I want my kids to look back on homeschooling with a smile on their face. I want them to remember it as a fun time, yes, we have to do school, and that may not always be great, but I don’t want them to hate homeschooling. I want them to love it! If you want to start off the year encouraged and ready for a more joyful homeschool, don't miss this episode! Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Gentle Guitar. Find show notes and more at JoyfullyHomeschooling.com

When I first began homeschooling I was so nervous. I had so many fears and concerns, that is why I love sharing FessUp Friday interviews with all of you. It is so fun talking to other homeschool moms about THEIR joys, struggles, and fears because so many of us have had similar concerns and during rough seasons lack joy. Today we are talking homeschool joys, struggles, and fears with Julie Trujiilo from Whisking Apples. Show notes: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/julie-trujiilo/ 

I first heard about Greg Landry from a homeschool network I am in. I started listening to his podcast and had to have him on. The reason being he spoke to me when he shared an episode about homeschooling the NON-science student. I immediately felt this weight lift off my shoulders because I have one kid who LOVES science and one that doesn't. Greg and I chat about the following topics: What science credits are required for high school?  Is there a reason to force upper-level science courses on a high schooler who is not science-minded?  Let’s talk labs if you have a child who is not planning on a science-related career do they need to DO labs? Or can they watch videos instead or even skip them altogether?  What do colleges look for when it comes to science courses and admissions into a university? This episode is sure to help you have a more joyful homeschool!

In today's episode, I'm sharing some of the benefits homeschooling will provide you and your kids, as well as tips to help you get through those hard moments in homeschooling.  If you have every thought homeschooling was too hard, and been tempted to flag down that yellow school bus you won't want to miss this episode!  Resources mentioned in this episode:  Indoctrination Movie I Can't Homeschool It's Too Hard

I am talking all things back to school with my good friend Davonne Parks. Are you ready for school? How is COVID impacting your back to school plans? Listen as Davonne and I answer these questions and more about back to school. Podcast sponsors make the Joyfully Homeschooling Podcast possible, be sure to thank Gentle Guitar for sponsoring this podcast.  Show notes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/back-to-homeschool/

Does anyone else feel like they are living in the book of Revelations? Our world is literally falling apart at the seams it feels like. And that is why today I am chatting with Dr. Kathy Koch. She and I will both be at the Southeast Homeschool Expo on July 24th and 25th in Atlanta, Georgia. One of her topics is on tackling tough topics with kids. And, I thought that it would be a great thing to talk about on the podcast.  Because I don’t know about you, but I have had a HARD time talking about some of these things with my kids. We are not living in easy times. We are facing things that generations past haven’t had to deal with, and now is the time to point our kids back to the word. Podcast Sponsor Gentle Guitar Full show notes with links mentioned in the episode. 

Hey guys! Welcome to the podcast. I remember when I had 2 then 3 kids to homeschool, I worried a lot about teaching multiple ages. It still is a struggle sometimes. I know many of you struggle with that as well. That is why I am super excited to share with you all this interview with Tiffany Jefferson homeschool mom to 10, She will also be with me at the Southeast Homeschool Expo in Atlanta Georgia in just two weeks.  Here are a few of the things we cover in this episode:  How do you manage to teach multiple children without feeling spread too thin? What are some easy ways to teach a wide range of ages?  At what point do you encourage your older kids to be more independent in their studies?  How do you find joy in your homeschool day? Podcast Sponsor Gentle Guitar Show notes for this episode   

Way back in episode two, Dachelle McVey and I discussed poetry and I confessed I did not like it. Since then, we have introduced some poetry into our homeschool. So, I wanted to bring her back on to discuss poetry, tea time, and more. Really, she is one of my online BFF's and we laugh. A lot. And she blows my mind with a realization that I actually HAVE been reading poetry all along. I read a poet, and I didn't even know it.  Show notes: Joyfullyhomeschooling.com Podcast Sponsor: Gentle Guitar

This week's podcast episode is a traditional Fess UP Friday episode. I am chatting about homeschool joys, struggles, and fears with Kirsten McTernan. Kirsten and I are chatting homeschooling boys, love languages, self-care, ADHD, the transition from public school to homeschooling and SO much more. You can overcome the doubt and fear of homeschooling.  Kirsten talks about her life verse and how through the many struggles of homeschooling the Lord's grace and love have helped her have a successful homeschool.  Show notes: Joyfullyhomeschooling.com Podcast Sponsor Minno

I shared on the blog a few years ago about my biggest homeschool regret.  I recommend you all go check that out. I share this because when the guest I have today on the podcast emailed me and asked me to review her new literature-based curriculum, which at the time was just for preschoolers and kindergartners,  I checked it out and was SO encouraged by it. When I first began homeschooling I wanted simple. I wanted to read books and cuddle my kids and have this environment that encouraged a love of learning.  But, instead, I pushed, and I bought a bunch of textbooks. I stressed myself out over test scores and public school standards. I didn’t really LOVE homeschooling. And my kids didn’t either. And they were young. SO young. My son has had a different learning environment because I know better now. And, Moms, if you are having regrets in your homeschool journey can I encourage you today? You can STOP the path yours on. You can turn around and restart. There is no time like the present.  And guess what? The world will NOT end. It will keep going, and with it may come a more joyful homeschool journey. And, today’s guest has an amazing resource that I think will rock the homeschool world. I really do.  I am chatting with Lisa Ann from the Wisdom Wonder Project and the classical school SLOCA. In this episode, we are chatting about literature, preschool, and kindergarten, the Wisdom Wonder Project, and so much more.  I also have a review of the curriculum on the blog. You can check that out here.  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Show notes: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/wonder-of-homeschooling/

As I began to prep for this episode, I honestly wasn’t really sure what I wanted to talk about. It’s my typical start of summer, end of the school year podcast but with everything else going on I didn’t really know how I wanted to end the school year. I was honestly going to throw something together on summer and rest, but I wasn’t feeling it. You know? And I want these episodes to bring you all something. To have a purpose because I know you take time to listen, and I don’t want you to feel like you are wasting your time.  And then, literally, the day before I was supposed to record this episode. I received a comment on my blog that brought tears to my eyes, and I thought, God, THIS is what we need to talk about.  Podcast Sponsor Minno, use code JOURNEY for a free trial Show notes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/imperfect-homeschool-mom/

Today’s interview is with Inga Hope from Gentle Guitar. Inga and I are chatting today about music, homeschooling, the importance of introducing our kids to music, how we can do that even when we are not musically inclined and so much more. It is a super fun episode and helpful to me as I have one kiddo who loves music, and I can simply can not carry a tune.  Specific questions we discuss  music and homeschooling: How can a busy homeschool mom add music into her day?  What are some ways to teach music to a variety of ages?  Public schools have band and choir, how can homeschoolers offer their kids traditional music and instrument lessons? Also, she is offering a giveaway for my podcast listeners. If you have you have a 5 to 12-year-old who’s keen to learn a musical instrument, here’s your chance to find out whether your child is ready for music lessons!  ENTER TO WIN 3-FREE MUSIC LESSONS FOR KIDS AGES 5 to 12+  Giveaway ends May 30th  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Show notes: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/add-music/

Today I am chatting all about homeschool curriculum with my good friend Davonne Parks. We are talking all things curriculum and geeking out over our favorite things. Here are a few things we are chatting about: What has been your favorite curriculum? What has been your kid’s favorite curriculum?  What is one curriculum you really wanted to work, but it just didn’t? How has your curriculum changed over the years?  What do you plan on using next year? (35:27 if you want to skip straight there) We are also offering some words of encouragement to all of you who may be struggling with the curriculum battle. Here's a hint: There is NO SUCH THING AS A PERFECT CURRICULUM! If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Show notes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/lets-chat-homeschool-curriculum

Last summer my daughter, heard about a camp called Worldview Academy while listening with me to the Heidi St. John podcast. She and I both immediately felt that this camp would be perfect for her and she begin working in various capacities to pay for her tuition. That camp changed her life. I do not say that lightly. I dropped off a teenage girl and picked up a young lady who was even stronger in her faith than she was before.  Because of this change that I saw in my daughter, I reached out to Worldview to see if they would chat with me about raising teens in a time where the Christian culture is highly under attack. Today, I am chatting with Michael DeGroat about the following things:  Our culture, and what it is like raising Christian teens in today’s times. What are some things you are seeing facing our teens? As homeschool parents, what can we do to prepare our teens for this spiritually declining climate?  We have been told by Christian leaders in our community that the best place for our kids is in public schools so they can be the salt and the light. How would you respond to this? What are some ways that homeschoolers and teens today can be the salt and the light in their communities? How can Worldview help prepare our teens to be leaders in a culture that seems to be against Christianity right now? At the time of this recording, Worldview was still planning on having camps. You can use link http://worldview.org/joy to get $100 off your registration for Worldview Academy. Shownotes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/raising-teens/ Podcast Sponsor Minno use code JOURNEY for a free trial

Today’s episode is with Connie Albers and we are talking about emotional overwhelm from mom and kids. I was listening to a podcast episode from Connie that she did with Sherri Seligson and she was talking about moms and them feeling sorry for themselves, and just being overwhelmed with everything going on. And, I cried listening to it because I had legit just had a HUGE pity party. I had been grumpy and just ugh. Not a nice person to be around. So, I asked Connie if she would come onto the podcast and give me a counseling session. Thankfully, she agreed!! Here are a few things we talk about: We are living in unprecedented times. As we are recording this we are facing times of uncertainty. How can we as moms maintain the joy in our homes in a time of fear and unknown?  Our kids tend to take from us, day after day. The questions, the energy, the needs. All. Day. Long. And now, more than ever many of us are overwhelmed. Our field trips, our co-ops, camps, all of the “breaks” we tended to get from our kids have been canceled. How can we give ourselves some peace so we can maintain our sanity?  I have been a little bit guilty of feeling like I need a pity party. I have felt the disappointment in my kids, and have been disappointed and feeling lonely myself. What can you say to the mom who feels alone right now? Separated from her community physically?  How can we help our teens? Who have missed out on so many things that they were looking forward to, like proms, and camps, graduation, and getting their permit or license? Connie is just such a breath of fresh air and encouragement and I know she is going to bless you all with this episode. Show notes: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/emotional-overwhelm/ Podcast Sponsor Minno Use code JOURNEY for a free trial

Today I am chatting with September McCarthy. I first heard of September at the beginning of the school year. I was looking for a character study and came across her cards. Now, I am a huge fan and listen to her podcast, and can’t believe I didn’t know about her earlier. She is such a wealth of knowledge and was a huge blessing to chat with.  In this episode, we go back to the basics and do a traditional Fess Up Friday interview. September and I chat homeschool regrets, struggles, joys and so much more. I can’t wait to share it with you. Thank you to our podcast sponsor Minno, use code JOURNEY to get a free trial.  See show notes and links mentioned in this episode here: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/intentional-homeschooling/

Is anyone else having a hard time getting school done, and many of us may be wondering if we’ve done enough in the midst of chaos. We may be trying to push through despite the feelings and the emotions we are all feeling.  This older episode goes along great with the topic of whether or not we are doing enough. So, I wanted to reshare it with an update from me, because it is relevant to what we are all dealing with today. In our home right now, the kids are a little bit more agitated with each other. They are agitated with me. I'm more agitated with them. I think that's because we're not getting any other outside social interaction. We're social distancing from everybody else. However, we are not social distancing from our family, and we are with them all the time. This means that we need to give ourselves grace and give ourselves a break. Because the truth is we are doing enough. Too often times we worry about being too relaxed in our homeschool. We worry about “keeping up” or letting the kids “fall behind” and in doing so we don’t actually stop and enjoy our kids.  The bottom line of this episode? YOU are enough. YOU are doing enough and YOUR children are learning EXACTLY what they need to know. Show notes: 

Months ago I recorded this episode with Beth Napoli from Techie Homeschool. I found it very relevant and wanted to push it out now while in the midst of this COVID19 crisis because SO many people are turning to online learning. Especially those who have been thrown into unexpected homeschooling.  In this episode, Beth and I chat the pros and cons of online learning in our homeschool, how it is different from online public school, the best programs and subjects for online learning, and so much more. Thank you to our podcast sponsor Minno, use code JOURNEY to get a free trial. Check out the full show notes and links mentioned in the episode here: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/pros-and-cons-of-online-learning/  

Who else feels like they have been living in a scientific thriller? MAN, guys, things are CRAAZY. I never thought I would be approached by public school teachers and asked to help them and others homeschool in the midst of a crisis.  However, I truly believe that God is doing something big in the homeschool community.  Literally just about every child in the United States is learning at home right now. Who would have ever thought this would happen? But, it has, and it is an opportunity that we may never get again. I have been approached by so many moms who are LOVING this. They are LOVING having their kids at home, and are interested in homeschooling long term now. There are other moms of course who are overwhelmed and don’t know where to start.  This is why I was so happy to accept an invitation from Sam Sorbo to talk about homeschooling and a new resource that is being offered for free to parents in the midst of this pandemic.  Sam and I are chatting today about how we can support those families who are now homeschooling, we talk about the benefits of homeschooling and how our prayer is that this whole mess brings about a homeschool revolution. Thank you to our podcast sponsor Minno use code JOURNEY to get a free trial See show notes and links mentioned in this episode here: https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/unexpected-homeschooling/

As you may know, podcasting takes a lot of time. I typically mass record 3 months’ worth of episodes in one month. This gives time for editing, show notes to be written, and for me to record introductions beforehand and solo episodes. Therefore, this episode will of course not address the current COVID19 pandemic. It may also reference homeschool conventions or other events that are now closed. I apologize in advance, however, the content and advice given in the episode is something we can all learn from regardless of the time it was recorded. Today’s podcast episode with Lynna Sutherland, Lynna and I chatted way back in episode  12. Today, I am bringing Lynna on to answer a listener question. And we are going to chat with Lynna about sibling relationships and parenting and child relationships, and whether or not we should be afraid of homeschooling hindering those relationships instead of strengthening them.  Lynna shares her advice and also answers these questions on sibling struggles.  How do you handle sibling disagreements during the day?   How can we as parents help in these close quarter situations?  How can we as parents nurture our relationship with our kids while homeschooling? It is hard playing both roles sometimes.  I am sure, if we are honest, that these questions are ones many of us have had at one point or another, so let’s talk about it! Show notes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/sibling-struggles/

The Joyfully Homeschooling podcast is TWO YEARS OLD!! I can NOT believe it. I have been blown away by the response to the podcast and I just LOVE it.  Today to celebrate, I am bringing my dear friend Davonne on to interview me :) Here are a few takeaways from this birthday celebration!  The podcast has been downloaded in 67 countries By the time this podcast episode airs we will be at over 100K downloads! Davonne interviews ME with our traditional fess up Friday interviews, PLUS she throws me a few curveball questions in there that I was NOT expecting (why are we friends again?!) lol! I share the top 10 episodes of the podcast as well as my personal favorites. I want to thank each and every one of you for making my first two years of podcasting such a success. I want to thank every sponsor, every guest, and every listener. You guys are such a blessing to me. If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast Sponsor BookShark My Favorite Episode My episode with my mentor Jamie Brown Another Favorite: Sacrificing our Relationship on the Altar of Homeschooling Davonne's Favorite: Overcoming Anxiety with Sarah Mae Another Favorite of ours: Homeschool Regrets with Davonne #1 Most Popular Episode with Sarita Holzmann #2 How to Overcome a Bad Homeschool Day #3 Salt and the Light Episode #4 Growing as a Homeschool Mom with Cindy Rollins #5 Brave Learning with Julie Bogart #6 Our Homeschool Curriculum Choices #7 How to Be More Consistent in Homeschooling #8 Homeschooling with ADHD #9 Homeschool Objectives with Charlene Notgrass  #10 Sacrificing Relationships on the Altar of Homeschooling Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store  

As you may know, podcasting takes a lot of time. I typically mass record 3 months’ worth of episodes in one month. This gives time for editing, show notes to be written, and for me to record introductions beforehand and solo episodes. Therefore, this episode will of course not address the current COVID19 pandemic. It may also reference homeschool conventions or other events that are now closed. I apologize in advance, however, the content and advice given in the episode is something we can all learn from regardless of the time it was recorded. Today we are chatting with Faith Berens from Homeschool Legal Defense. We are going to be tackling the topic of special needs and homeschooling. In particular, we talk about our rights as special needs parents. I share in this episode some of our experiences with needing to use HSLDA in regard to obtaining my son’s special needs services. But, this episode is about more than just HSLDA and special needs. Faith has a true passion to help and encourage homeschool parents, and she shares her heart with me and you in this episode.  Show notes:  https://www.findingjoyinthejourney.net/special-needs/ ‎

Checking in with all of you to see how everyone is doing while homeschooling through the pandemic. I am chatting a few things in this episode including: My Instagram COVID-19 diary What our current homeschool looks like How to help your public school friends who suddenly are "homeschooling" their kids and asking YOU for help How we can be the hands and feet of Jesus while also staying quarantined How to talk to our kids about disappointment, cancellation, fear and more If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast Sponsor Bookshark My Instagram Should Christians Fear the Coronavirus podcast episode 100 Books for Kids 100 Non-Fiction Books for Kids Heroes of History giveaway Books for Homeschool Moms CNN10  Anxiety Tool Kit from Raising Life-Long Learners

As you may know, podcasting takes a lot of time. I typically mass record 3 months’ worth of episodes in one month. This gives time for editing, show notes to be written, and for me to record introductions beforehand and solo episodes. Therefore, this episode will of course not address the current COVID19 pandemic. It may also reference homeschool conventions or other events that are now closed. I apologize in advance, however, the content and advice given in the episode is something we can all learn from regardless of the time it was recorded. Today I am airing a bucket list podcast interview with the authors of our favorite book series!!! I first began reading the Christian Heroes Then and Now series from Geoff and Janet Benge with my kids because my firstborn was feeling led into missions. She came across their book on Amy Carmichael and the rest was history. We have now read TONS of them. Last year we focused on world history and read missionary stories from the different continents we were studying with c0-op and this year, we are paring them with our US history study and going along with what the kids are learning with Notgrass History. We LOVE these books, and I was so excited to chat with Janet Benge for the podcast. Here are some of the questions we will be going over: I heard on another podcast that you had dyslexia. My son is dyslexic, how did this impact you in your academic and professional career? Where do you get the research needed to write your books? How do you decide what stories to tell? These books have been known to challenge my faith and the faith of my children. Was this the original plan when you began writing the books?  My middle wanted to know if you have any books about people that minister through animals? If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor,Book Shark Benge Books Heroes Then and Now Books by Janet and Geoff Benge Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store

As you may know, podcasting takes a lot of time. I typically mass record 3 months’ worth of episodes in one month. This gives time for editing, show notes to be written, and for me to record introductions beforehand and solo episodes. Therefore, this episode will of course not address the current COVID19 pandemic. It may also reference homeschool conventions or other events that are now closed. I apologize in advance, however, the content and advice given in the episode is something we can all learn from regardless of the time it was recorded. Leah Nieman is known as the technology guru, and I am so excited to bring her on to talk about teens and cell phones. I’ll be honest, I always planned on waiting until my kids were older to give them cell phones, but both ended up with one around 12 due to the fact that they spent so much time away from us for youth group, sports, and other activities. So, I caved.  Now, we have had some issues off and on since, as I am sure you can imagine. So, I was ready to learn from Leah about all things teens and cell phones.  Here is a small snippet into our conversation on teens and cell phones:  Let’s start with age, about what age would you recommend a cell phone for a child, and are there phones out there that aren’t “smart” Now, let’s move on to social media, what social media apps are all the rage for teens, and which ones are the safest, and those that are not so safe? What do you do when you see your child breaking rules that you put in place? How do you know when to lessen the rules and when to rein them? What do you do when you see a child who is obviously becoming addicted to their phone?  I hope you learn more about teens, cell phones, and safe technology after this episode. Be sure to check out the resources in the show notes to connect with Leah!  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Leah's website Leah's Facebook page where she shares tons of tech updates  Get a copy of Leah's Tech Talk Conversation Cards FREE when you sign up for her weekly newsletter Leah's Product and Services Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store

Today I am ditching our regularly scheduled programming and discussing the very REAL pandemic going on right now.  As Christians, should we fear the coronavirus?  As homeschoolers, how is will this affect our day to day lives?  What does the bible say about fear? How can we talk to our kids about the Coronavirus?  How is this affecting our families personally? What about my daughter’s upcoming trip to Spain?  What actions should we be taking as people of faith?  My friend Davonne and I talk all of these questions and more today on the podcast.  Links mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor BookShark Episode 16Lisa Jo Baker’s podcast My Instagram Link to the science experiment on bread Cookeville, Tennessee

Guys! I am SO excited to share with you all today about a fun storytelling-based app that also teaches kids a second language. Since I recorded this episode I have had the chance to use the Fabulingua app with Daniel and I also downloaded it on my daughter's phone for her to use with babysitting as I mention in this episode and guys, this app is AMAZING. I am not even joking. I think you all will love it.  In this episode we answer the following questions:  What is FabuLingua?  Why is learning a second language important?  How is Fabulingua different from other language learning solutions?  What age range is this for How this program can work with kids who have special needs The importance of audiobooks And SO much more!  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Fabulingua (FREE TRIAL!) Fabulingua on Facebook Fabulingua on Instagram

One of the most popular podcasts ever is the one on Homeschooling a child with ADHD. Because of this, I wanted to share another blog post that I wrote a few years ago about homeschooling the distracted child. Three years later, this is still something we struggle with. Even after the kids are in middle and high school.  A distracted child is a common occurrence in many homeschool families. When left undealt with it means long homeschool days, a frustrated homeschool mom, and a child who is constantly unable to focus.  This is just an outline of the episode, be sure to listen!  So, what has been the solution to homeschooling a distracted child? Eliminate Distractions Try to Understand Your Distracted Child As parents sometimes we have to face reality.  And one area I had to overcome when it comes to homeschooling my distracted child is the reality that my expectations were too high.  The truth is when we are parenting a distracted child we have to be realistic. Here is our reality: Shorter lessons Interest led learning Sometimes together isn’t better Realize you can’t set it and forget it I also give some great tips for eliminating homeschool distractions for you AND your child in this video. PS: If you haven’t heard of Worldview Academy I suggest you check it out. You can get $100 off of admission using code 2520 . If you have any questions about it send me an email, misty@joyinthejourney.net either I or my daughter will do our best to answer them. If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor,Book Shark Planning sheets  Instagram Post on Airforce Museum Worldview Academy Episode on ADHD Blog post on this episode Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store

Have you noticed that the work ethic in many children nowadays leaves much to be desired? I have! And, I want to raise kids who are different. I want to have kids who want to work, and serve, and glorify God in ALL that they do.  And today, I am chatting this topic and so much more with Mark Baker, owner of Christian Homeschool Entrepreneurs.  Mark holds a Master’s degree in International Business Management and is a serial web entrepreneur. He loves creative thinking. And is currently working on a clothing brand called Married is Great (marriedisgreat.com) in addition to Christian Homeschool Entrepreneurship.  He and his wife homeschool seven wonderful children and are devoted followers of Christ.  A strong work ethic originates from God... I ask Mark what he thinks this means, as well as a few other questions, including:   Why do you think the current generation tends to shy away from work? How can we as parents raise kids who want to work and honor God in all that they do?  So, you have created a program that can help kids have a Christian mindset towards work. Can you share with us a little bit about this program?  If you want to raise kids who stand out in the world, don't miss this episode!  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor,Bookshark Christian Homeschool Entrepreneurship Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store

In this episode, I chat with Wendy Gunn from Your Home for God. We talk about the comparison trap, and Wendy shares the lesson she learned about embracing the unique story God has created just for her, and how we all can learn from that lesson. We also talk about the regret she has regarding her kids and letting them make their own mistakes while they were under her roof.  "The journey doesn't stop when our children are grown, it just changes" This is just an all-around great episode and I can’t wait to share it with you all. If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me. Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor,Book Shark Wendy on Facebook Wendy's course on Raising Godly Kids get 50% off, with coupon code HALFOFF  Wendy on Instagram Wendy's Website Post about Wendy's journey with Cancer Episode with Dachelle McVey about Teens My previous episode on comparison Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store

I did an episode on burnout back on episode 41. But, I wanted to bring the topic up again with my friend Davonne Parks. In this episode, we are going to be chatting about the warning signs of burn out, how to overcome it and lessons we have learned about it. This season right now is the time when SO many of us are overwhelmed and just feel blah when it comes to homeschooling. And guess what? It doesn’t have to be that way! I hope this episode encourages you to have more joy in your homeschool and reminds you that you are NOT alone. If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me.  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor Blog post on Burnout Episode on Burnout Davonne's post on overcoming depression naturally How to Care for your Self without being Selfish from Davonne Parks Logic of English Teaching from Rest by Sarah Mackenzie The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst Post-Partum Depression with June Duran Bible Based Homeschooling with Karen DeBeus Homeschooling out of Negligence episode Homeschool Regrets with Davonne Parks Podcast episode with Sarah Mae Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store  

Through the years I have had SO many people tell me they can’t homeschool because they can’t afford to quit working. But, the reality is SO many moms work and homeschool. Some things my friends do, they work outside the home as an office manager, nurse, professor at the local college, cleaning houses or office buildings, a realtor. They work from home working with VIP KID, Usborne books, blogger, podcaster, VA, graphic designer, writer, editor, and so many more.  I am surprised by the number of moms who DO work and homeschool. The number has really gone up over the last few years.  And we are going to tackle this topic on the podcast today.  I don’t regret being a working homeschool mom. I love it. My kids see me work every day, and they know how hard I work to balance my time effectively. They have seen me persevere and reach goals, they have cheered with me when I sold my first eBook, and have listened to me read articles, and blog posts. They also helped me hang business signs and read books to the babies when I ran my in-home daycare. They have come along with me to speaking events, work trips, and more.  My businesses have really been family businesses that they have believed in with me.  So, if you are a working mom, I hope this episode encourages you and provides you with more tips to help you have a more joyful homeschool.  If you liked this episode be sure to leave a rating or review. These serve as a notice to iTunes that I’m not speaking to myself. It will also give you a chance to have your review read online and win a gift from me  Not sure how to leave a review? Here are instructions for iTunes and Stitcher users. Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast sponsor, Book Shark Resources for the Working Homeschool Mom The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst Homeschool Moms Retreat Work at Home with VIP Kid Gideon Bible Study Stretched to Thin by Jessica Turner Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe for weekly encouragement emails AND a coupon to my store Joy in the Journey store