Play Skillfully

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of teaching children about forgiveness, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. She emphasizes that forgiveness is not about excusing behavior but about understanding the impact of actions on others. Kathy provides practical strategies for parents to help their children navigate feelings of anger and hurt, and the significance of modeling forgiveness in their own behavior. The conversation highlights the long-term benefits of instilling these values in children to foster compassionate and emotionally intelligent adults.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of teaching helpfulness to children as a key character trait. She emphasizes the role of parents in modeling helpful behavior, engaging children in helpful activities, and providing developmentally appropriate tasks. The conversation highlights the significance of building confidence in children through participation in household chores and the positive impact of helpfulness on family dynamics. Kathy also shares practical tips for making helpfulness a fun and natural part of family life, concluding with a reminder of the lasting effects of these early lessons on children's character development.Check out our summer sale going on now @kathyeggers.com, you can get our summer curriculum guide (A Summer of Playing Skillfully) on sale for $15 off plus get our MUD Kitchen plans for FREE. Use the code, slowsummer. For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek discuss the profound impact of reading aloud to children. They explore the emotional and educational benefits, including building connections, enhancing language development, and fostering a love for stories. Practical tips for incorporating reading into daily routines are shared, along with insights on how to engage children during read-aloud sessions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of picture books and the transformative power of stories in shaping children's understanding of the world.You can find Keri's Book, Kisses From Space at your local bookstore or online.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of faithfulness as a character trait in parenting. She reflects on the challenges of parenting and offers support to parents navigating their journeys. Kathy emphasizes the significance of modeling faithfulness for children, providing practical strategies to teach this value, and the need for flexibility in parenting. The episode concludes with an invitation to join a newsletter for more parenting resources and a preview of the next episode.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this engaging conversation, Kathy and Keri explore the complexities of homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and personal growth for parents. They reflect on their own journeys, discussing the need for understanding one's teaching style, emotional triggers, and the impact of social media on perceptions of homeschooling. The dialogue encourages parents to prioritize their well-being and recognize their role in creating a nurturing learning environment for their children. In this conversation, Keri V and Kathy Eggers explore the challenges and insights of homeschooling, particularly in relation to personal differences, ADHD, and the importance of self-awareness. They discuss the impact of external influences on parenting and education, the need for flexibility in homeschooling approaches, and strategies for navigating information overload, especially during conferences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trusting one's instincts as a parent and recognizing that it's okay to not have all the answers.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of teaching patience to children, especially during the spring season. She emphasizes that patience is a challenging trait for parents to instill, as it requires modeling behavior and understanding child development. Kathy shares practical activities and strategies for parents to help their children learn patience, such as involving them in cooking, gardening, and puzzles. She also highlights the significance of consistency, routine, and coping skills in fostering patience in children, encouraging a lighthearted approach to waiting.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek explore the often negative perceptions surrounding math education. They discuss how math can be viewed as a puzzle and emphasize the importance of teaching math through play and real-life applications. The conversation highlights the significance of a positive attitude towards math, the role of readiness in learning, and the need for parents to model a healthy relationship with math. They also touch on the importance of incorporating math into daily life and the balance between teaching and self-care for parents. Finally, they address the concept of being 'behind' in math and how comparison can affect children's learning experiences.You can find Keri on Instagram @keri_vasek. For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers, Keri Vasek, and Laurie Von Holdt discuss the nuances of teaching reading, emphasizing the importance of waiting until a child is ready to learn. They explore individual learning styles, the significance of storytelling, and the impact of parental pressure on children's self-esteem. Lauri shares her extensive background in education, particularly in helping struggling readers, while Keri reflects on her own experiences homeschooling her children. The discussion highlights the need for a personalized approach to education, celebrating small victories, and fostering a love for reading. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of understanding children's readiness for learning, particularly in reading. They emphasize the role of play in education, the need for parents to be curious about their child's learning process, and the significance of relationships in fostering a positive learning environment. The conversation also touches on the pressures of school systems and the importance of recognizing individual learning challenges without panic.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers explores the concept of love as a fundamental trait to teach children, particularly preschoolers. She emphasizes that love is best taught through actions rather than words, highlighting the importance of modeling love in everyday life. Kathy discusses practical ways to show love, including self-love, emotional presence, and creative expressions of affection. She also addresses the significance of navigating difficult emotions and loss, encouraging open communication about feelings. Overall, the conversation serves as a guide for parents to intentionally foster love in their families.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the character trait of peacefulness, particularly in the context of parenting and family life. She reflects on the chaos of the holiday season and emphasizes the importance of modeling peacefulness for children. Kathy shares practical strategies for creating a peaceful home environment, establishing calm routines, and teaching conflict resolution skills. She also highlights the significance of finding personal peace and the role of active listening in fostering healthy relationships within the family.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers emphasizes the significance of kindness as a fundamental character trait that should be instilled in children. She shares personal experiences and practical advice on how to model kindness in everyday life, encouraging parents to be intentional in their actions and words. The discussion highlights the importance of kindness not only during the holiday season but as a lifelong value that shapes relationships and community interactions.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode, Kathy discusses the importance of introducing children to thankfulness from a young age. From modeling thankfulness to encouraging thankfulness through family activities, Kathy shares the value in being intentional with this character trait throughout your home.Webster defines thankfulness as "Impressed with a sense of kindness received and ready to acknowledge it." Kathy encourages listeners to recognize when thankfulness is shown and acknowledge kindness. For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of finding a family rhythm that works for each unique household, especially when it comes to homeschooling children of various ages. She emphasizes the significance of engaging children in sensory and physical activities in the morning to prepare them for learning. Kathy advocates for a play-based approach to education, encouraging parents to maintain a lighthearted atmosphere while fostering curiosity and critical thinking skills. She also provides insights on integrating subjects like history and science in a concrete manner, managing multi-age learning, and building a foundation of curiosity through exploration and hands-on experiences.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode, Kathy shares the value of using play to teach children to read, write, and enjoy math. Through stories and encouragement, Kathy conveys the message of waiting until children are ready before tackling these subjects. This episode will help you feel confident and prepared as you strive to teach these basic learning skills to your young learner.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of orderliness as a character trait for children, highlighting its cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. She shares personal experiences and practical strategies for creating order in the home, emphasizing the role of routines and systems. Kathy encourages parents to involve their children in the process of maintaining orderliness and to make it a fun and engaging experience. The episode concludes with a call to action for parents to be intentional about fostering orderliness in their children's lives.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers and Hugh Hanley explore the profound impact of music on early childhood education. They discuss their personal journeys, the importance of musical play, and how music fosters social and emotional development in children. Hugh shares practical tips for parents and educators on incorporating music into daily routines and adapting songs based on children's input. The discussion emphasizes the significance of starting music education from infancy and the joy it brings to both children and adults.To learn more about Hugh's music classes and his CD songbooks, check out his website, www.hughhanley.com. You can also watch Hugh on his YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@hughhanley1403. Thanks for listening!For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode of the Play Skillfully podcast, Kathy Eggers discusses the significance of character traits in children's development, focusing on the trait of wonder. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to discover, experience, and explore the world around them to cultivate their curiosity and creativity. Kathy shares practical tips for parents on how to encourage a sense of wonder in their children, including giving them time, permission, and resources to explore their interests. The conversation highlights the role of wonder in learning and personal growth, urging parents to be intentional in fostering this trait.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and MaryAnn Kohl discuss the importance of process art and its benefits for children. They emphasize the need for self-expression, creativity, and trust in oneself. Maryann shares her journey into art and how she became an advocate for process art. They discuss the purpose of art and how it builds better humans who can think, solve problems, and lead society forward. They also talk about the importance of allowing children to explore different materials and tools, and the cognitive benefits of art for children's development. In this conversation, MaryAnn Kohl and Kathy Eggers discuss the importance of process art for children's development. They emphasize the need for adults to give children permission to explore and be creative with art materials. They also highlight the benefits of process art, such as problem-solving skills and confidence-building. MaryAnn shares examples of art activities that engage children's senses and foster discovery. They discuss the role of adults as facilitators and the importance of allowing children to make their own decisions. MaryAnn also mentions her books on process art and provides resources for finding them.Learn more about MaryAnn's books  and check out her Facebook group, Process Art with MaryAnn Kohl. For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

Ya'll, this new podcast is going to be AMAZING. Gray Roots officially launches 10/01, but you all get a sneak peak and get to know Kathy a little better at the same time.In this conversation, Kathy Eggers shares her journey to becoming a mother and her experiences as a parent and grandparent. She discusses her initial impressions of her friends and how they met, as well as her unique path to motherhood through adoption. Kathy also opens up about the tragic loss of one of her children and how it has shaped her perspective on life and parenting. She emphasizes the importance of loving fiercely, forgiving quickly, and cherishing every moment with loved ones. Kathy's passion for children and early childhood development is evident as she shares her career in child development and her love for connecting with children. She also discusses her role as a speaker and trainer, sharing her knowledge and expertise with parents and educators. Kathy Eggers shares her passion for children and the importance of giving them a childhood full of wonder and discovery. She discusses her love for tennis and her goal of attending all the tennis slams. Kathy also reflects on her favorite season of life, which is the present, and the joy of watching her children grow and become the people they were meant to be. She talks about the transition of sending her youngest child off to college and the surreal experience of adjusting to an empty nest. Kathy explains the motivation behind starting the Gray Roots podcast and the desire to make a difference in relationships between mothers and daughters-in-law. The conversation ends with memories of laughter and the importance of being real and finding genuine connections in life.Follow us on Instagram at GrayRootsPodcast! Can't wait to go on this multigenerational journey with you all!!For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

Hey all, I am getting ready to launch our new season of the Play Skillfully podcast so I thought I would re-release this timely one from last year, Enjoy!!!In this episode, Kathy talks about the approaching school year and offers tips and suggestions for making the transition a smooth one for preschoolers. 1. Start by setting goals for you and your family. Kathy's favorite way of doing this is to gather magazines, pencils, paper and glue and invite children to make goal posters and include topics they would like to learn about. 2. Keep it FLEXIBLE: Consider your season of life when planning. Moves, new babies, and health issues have all caused Kathy to adjust her school goals over the years. Flexibility and the willingness to pivot will help parents and children keep their sanity during times of transition. After considering your season of life, adjust goals and create a routine. Remember, routines often work better than schedules, especially for preschoolers (and free spirit mommas). 3. Keep it CONCRETE: Young children learn through their senses. They need to touch it, smell it, taste it, hear it, and see it for their brain to connect with it. Encourage curiosity and be willing to follow that curiosity to completion. 4. Keep it SIMPLE: Preschoolers do not need hours with worksheets. In fact, research shows that preschoolers don't need worksheets at all. Helping children fall in love with words, books and stories will inspire children to fall in love with reading. Math can be done as you go… cooking, cleaning, sorting and exploring are all ways to teach basic math concepts. Sensory and Science are a must for building a strong foundation in the brain for abstract learning. Give children plenty of time for discovery, experience, and wonder if you want to develop lifelong learners. Have fun and have a delightful year of wonder!!!For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

Dr. Christy Montes joins Kathy to discuss the impact of food on children's brain function, learning, and emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of providing the body with unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods to fuel optimal brain function. While it can be challenging to navigate social situations and balance healthy eating, Dr. Montes suggests finding a balance and providing alternatives when possible. She also addresses the effects of sugar and artificial dyes on children's behavior and recommends focusing on positive food choices and educating children about the benefits of nutritious foods. Dr. Montes highlights the benefits of raw honey and suggests being aware of food sensitivities and their potential impact on behavior and overall health. She provides guidance on identifying sensitivities and offers various testing options. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between food and children's well-being and making informed choices for their nutrition. In this conversation, Christy Montes and Kathy Eggers discuss the importance of nutrition and self-care for parents and children. They emphasize the need to cultivate a relationship with children and understand their individual needs. They also highlight the impact of a regulated nervous system on parenting and the importance of self-care for mothers. The conversation covers topics such as reading labels, choosing natural products, and making healthier food choices. They encourage parents to make wise choices and teach their children to make balanced decisions.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek discuss the joys and challenges of parenting and homeschooling. They reflect on the importance of trusting one's intuition and not letting outside voices dictate parenting decisions. They also explore the bittersweet experience of watching children grow up and the grief that comes with it. The conversation touches on the duality of parenting, the need for self-compassion, and the power of modeling happiness for children. They also discuss Keri's journey of writing and publishing her first children's book, 'Kisses from Space,' which is about a mother dragon who has to leave her children and finds ways to stay connected with them.You can purchase Kisses from Space from your favorite Book Outlet.For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers, Alecia Warneke, and Kari Oakley-Miller discuss the dynamics of grand-parenting and mothering adult children. They explore the importance of maintaining a nurturing relationship with their children even after becoming grandparents. The conversation touches on topics such as setting expectations, communication, and finding a balance between supporting and respecting their adult children's parenting choices. They also share personal experiences and rituals they have established to nurture their relationships with their grandchildren and adult children. The conversation revolves around the topic of creating meaningful memories with adult children and grandchildren. The host and guests share their experiences and strategies for building strong relationships and establishing traditions. They discuss the importance of individualized attention, such as cooking favorite meals and planning special outings. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing expectations and boundaries, as well as the need for self-care and maintaining healthy relationships with partners. The ladies announce their upcoming podcast, Gray Roots, which will further explore these topics. The new podcast will launch in October 2024.For more information, check out Kathy and Lesli's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, PSPODCAST.

In this episode, Kathy Eggers and Rachel Ryder discuss the decision to homeschool and provide resources and advice for getting started. They emphasize the importance of understanding your why and finding support from other homeschoolers. They also recommend resources such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and Instagram accounts like Days with Gray and The Workspace for Kids. The conversation highlights the need for a playful attitude towards homeschooling and the flexibility to adjust and adapt as needed.To contact Rachel regarding Homeschool coaching, visit www.rydergroupcc.com/homeschoolTo contact Kathy regarding Conversations with Kathy, visit www.kathyeggers.com/appointmentsInstagram accounts:@thekathyeggers@maryvangeffen@simplyonpurpose@dayswithgrey@theworkspaceforchildrenHomeschool Resources:- A Year of Playing Skillfully by the Homegrown Preschooler- Conferences like Great Homeschool Conventions or your state homeschool conference. - Pam Barnhill, pambarnhill.com- Homeschool Better Together and Morning Basket ideas- Sally Clarkson, sallyclarkson.comThanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, PSPODCAST.

To get a copy of Dr. Roger Smith's book Parenting with Influence or to learn more about their ministry, check out their website, rogersmithmd.com. In this episode, Kathy interviews Dr. Roger Smith and his wife Jan about raising kids with an adventurous spirit. The Smiths share stories of their own children's adventurous experiences, such as starting businesses, giving speeches, biking across France and living in foreign countries. They emphasize the importance of being present and supportive as parents, encouraging children to take reasonable risks and fostering their confidence. They also discuss the role of language in shaping a child's mindset and the benefits of adventurous experiences for academic, emotional, social, and physical development. Encouraging children to embrace adventure and take risks is important for their development and growth. It is essential for parents to support and guide their children through these experiences, even if there is some danger involved. By allowing children to take small steps and gradually build their skills and confidence, they become more resilient and willing to face challenges. It is crucial for parents to foster a trusting relationship with their children and provide them with opportunities to explore and learn from their mistakes. Exposing children to stories of people who have lived boldly can also inspire and motivate them to embrace adventure in their own lives. 

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In this episode Lesli and Kathy dive into the topic of Gentleness. Some parenting coaches to check out or follow if you are interested in learning more about Gentle Parenting: LR KnostMary Van Geffen Desitni DavisMoms of Spicy Ones sign-ups open September 1, 2023. Watch our Instagram stories, starting on 9/1 for a discount code. Additional Resources:Little Bear by Maurice SendakThe Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame Games:Pick up SticksBuilding House of CardsOperationFor more information, check out Kathy and Lesli's book,The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum,A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media.

In this episode, Kathy talks about the approaching school year and offers tips and suggestions for making the transition a smooth one for preschoolers. 1. Start by setting goals for you and your family. Kathy's favorite way of doing this is to gather magazines, pencils, paper and glue and invite children to make goal posters and include topics they would like to learn about. 2. Keep it FLEXIBLE: Consider your season of life when planning. Moves, new babies, and health issues have all caused Kathy to adjust her school goals over the years. Flexibility and the willingness to pivot will help parents and children keep their sanity during times of transition. After considering your season of life, adjust goals and create a routine. Remember, routines often work better than schedules, especially for preschoolers (and free spirit mommas). 3. Keep it CONCRETE: Young children learn through their senses. They need to touch it, smell it, taste it, hear it, and see it for their brain to connect with it. Encourage curiosity and be willing to follow that curiosity to completion. 4. Keep it SIMPLE: Preschoolers do not need hours with worksheets. In fact, research shows that preschoolers don't need worksheets at all. Helping children fall in love with words, books and stories will inspire children to fall in love with reading. Math can be done as you go… cooking, cleaning, sorting and exploring are all ways to teach basic math concepts. Sensory and Science are a must for building a strong foundation in the brain for abstract learning. Give children plenty of time for discovery, experience, and wonder if you want to develop lifelong learners. Have fun and have a delightful year of wonder!!!For more information, check out Kathy and Lesli's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media. 

This month in our curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully, we are focusing on the character trait of forgiveness. Webster's 1828 Dictionary defines forgiveness as “to pardon, to overlook an offense and treat the offender as not guilty.” We thought this was a very matter-of-fact definition for such a complex emotional process. Listen to Episode 31 of the Play Skillfully where Kathy and Lesli have a frank talk about what teaching children about forgiveness can look like in your home. 1. Examine your own family history with forgiveness. We don't want to parent on auto-pilot! Did your family easily forgive? Did your parents apologize to you and ask for forgiveness? How would you like to do things differently with your family? 2. Recognize that with small children, the foundation of forgiveness is developing the idea of inherent worth. Use stories such as “Horton Hears a Who” by Dr. Suess to develop empathy for others. After using stories to develop the idea of inherent worth, we want to move onto developing ideas of kindness, respect, and generosity. When a child is about 6 years old, they can developmentally begin to understand the causes and effects of people's actions. 3. Remember that forgiveness sometimes takes time! It does not always mean immediate reconciliation. Forgiveness is a choice and should never be forced on a child before they are ready.4. Always be there to help your child name their feelings. Validate their feelings of anger, sadness, or frustration without validating unwanted behavior that can come along with it. 5. Forgiveness demonstrates resilience, and this is a quality our children really need to take into their futures. They need the ability to repair, reframe and move on from conflict. Holding onto anger and resentment creates anxiety and depression. It is necessary for our mental health to learn to forgive.-Stories that build the foundation for forgiveness:Horton Hears a Who by Dr SuessMrs. Rosey Posey and the Yum-Yummy Birthday Cake by Robin Jones GunnThe Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule by Mike Berenstain I Forgive You: Love We Can Hear, Ask For, and Give by Nicole LataifPunk the Skunk Learns to Say I'm Sorry by Misty BlackHow to Apologize by David LaRochelleThe Circles All Around Us by Brad MontegueThe Friend Who Forgives Storybook: A true story about how Peter failed and Jesus forgave by Dan Dewitt 

This is a rebroadcast of a favorite episode from 2020.Tips for building patience in yourself:1. Relationships over results. Also consider the fragility of the people you are dealing with. Be gentle. You honestly never know what other people are dealing with at home, or what broken system they are trying to work within. The way we respond to others is on display to our children. 2. Educate yourself in the developmental stages of your kids, so that your expectations are reasonable. 3. Check yourself first:  Are we frustrated with them because we were unprepared, disorganized or unrested? Are we communicating clearly what our expectations are? Are we expecting others to read our minds?  Do we need some self-care?4. Be mindful of the verbal and non-verbal cues we are giving.  (Eye rolling, sarcasm, belittling people, sighing heavily, foot-tapping)5. Protect your own quiet prayer time. There is nothing that makes me gentler with people than spending time with my gentle Lord. He is so so patient with us and I need to keep that conduit open in order to pour it out on others.  My kids have occasionally looked at me wide-eyed and said “Did you miss your quiet time today?Building it within your kids:1. Observe potential triggers and target them specifically. These could potentially be: turn taking, losing at games, hunger, perfectionism, frustration with building new skills, keeping up with siblings, etc.2. Validate their feelings of frustration. Usually the FEELING behind the frustration is valid, but maybe not the BEHAVIOR.3. Problem solve out loud to yourself when you are feeling impatient. “This traffic is so hard to sit in! Let's make it more fun by playing our favorite songs. Everyone choose one!”  “I am so hungry right now, but it is still one hour before dinner! Maybe I will drink a big glass of water!” Use humor whenever possible. 4. Honor your commitments. Minutes are meaningless, especially when we say “in a minute” when we don't really mean it.  They are not dumb. Use visual timers such as hour glasses or visual kitchen timers. 5. Play games. Freeze Dance, Duck Duck Goose and Mother, May I build listening and patience. 6. Compliment and reward it when you see it “Hey, nice waiting!”  “I noticed earlier that you were so patient when your brother wanted to play with your new Lego, so we will have a special dessert tonight!”---Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media. 

This week Kathy had the privilege to speak with Dr. Kathy Koch, founder of Celebrate Kids and discuss several hot topics for parents today. They talked about Kathy's books 8 Great Smarts and Start with the Heart. Dr. Kathy shared some amazing wisdom about getting to the hearts of your little ones as well as your teens.  You can learn more about Dr. Kathy Koch at celebratekids.com. Check out her books and the opportunities to listen to her at one of many conferences including, Ignite the Family. 

Last week, Kathy and Lesli hosted a webinar on organizing your day, your curriculum, your materials and more. Julia and Amanda, two moms currently using AYOPS shared their plans, pictures, and ideas on organizing. Webinar attendees asked questions and those questions are answered at the end of this podcast. Lesli suggested a book by Marcia Somerville entitled Love the Journey to help parents plan for each child.Kathy Kuhl attended our webinar (she is a grandmother using our curriculum) and we wanted to mention her services here as well. Kathy works with families who have children with learning challenges. You can contact Kathy via her website if you are interested in learning more about her services. For more information, check out Kathy and Lesli's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully. Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know. Just email us playskillfully@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot us a message on social media.  | Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, PSPODCAST.

Recently, Kathy had the privilege of spending the weekend with Rachel and Keri. During the visit they decided that their topics of conversation would make a great podcast, so they grabbed a computer and pushed record. In this episode, Kathy discusses many “hot” topics of today. They talk about reading, parenting, self-care, podcasts, and the balance of it all. You will want to listen to this podcast as soon as possible. Podcasts currently in their library:• Popcast• Crime Junkie• Up and Vanished• The Bible Binge• Brains On Podcast (for kids)• Where Do We Go from Here• The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill• Make it Simple – Kathy was recently a guest on this podcast. • The Moth• The Bible Project Books recently/currently on their table or on their phones:            The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali            Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens            The Water Keeper by Charles Martin            Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin            When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin            Lady Sherlock Holmes Series by Sherry Thomas            The Dutch House by Ann Patchett            Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner            Lilac Girls by Martha Hall KellyYou can find out what Rachel and Keri are reading by following them on Goodreads. These ladies are keeping it real and hope you do too! Don't hesitate to reach out to Kathy if you have any questions about the things discussed in this episode.  kathy@thehomegrownpreschooler.com

This week on the Play Skillfully Podcast, Lesli finishes her series on cultivating beauty in your home school through ritual, sensory experiences, and developing yourself as a teacher. This week's focus was on developing yourself as a teacher. Journal through these questions:What are three habits I can work on this year to improve the liturgy in our home school?What are some ways I can cultivate beauty in myself?What are some things I've always wanted to learn or do? How can I create space for those things?What can I do THIS YEAR to become the teacher I want for my children next year?

I have had the privilege of being a mother for almost 26 years. During my time as a mother, I have adopted six children, had two failed adoptions, birthed two children, gained two children through marriage, and said goodbye to one of my children (as we lost him to Leukemia on May 16, 2020). Parenting has had many highs and lows over the years and I definitely have mad some mistakes. As I thought about what I wanted to share with you, I came up with five things I felt were most important on this parenting journey.What happened in your childhood will impact what happens in your child’s childhood.Lightheartedness over lectures.Everyday moments are greater than grand gestures.Feelings Matter – Honor their feelings.They are watching.I definitely don’t have all of the answers when it comes to parenting, but I do love my babies more than anything and now that I have sent one to Heaven, I believe now more than ever these five things matter. I hope you have a fabulous Mother’s Day and feel the love from your family!Lesli and I are here if you need us. You can contact us at kathy@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or lesli@thehomegrownpreschooler.comHave a great week! Lesli will be back next week with Part 3 of her conference talk.

How to build a Cathedral Pt. II Appealing to your children's five senses in your home, and the building blocks of their intellect. What is the value of aesthetics as part of an education?

How to Build a Cathedral - Part 1 Building a Liturgy for Your DayThe raising and educating of a child should be a work of great beauty, like the building of a magnificent cathedral. Years of Planning, thought, and hard work are poured into both endeavors. Today on the podcast, Lesli is exploring the idea of cultivating beauty by creating rituals throughout our day. This podcast is packed with big ideas and practical advice!We have also created a free journaling resource on our website! 

I mentioned in last week’s podcast that Keri and I recorded this podcast a couple of years ago and I was going to play some snippets for you on the show notes. However, after listening to this podcast again I decided you would want to hear the whole thing, it was good! I plan to have Keri on the show again to catch you all up on her journey of motherhood and how her life has changed since adding a fourth child.In this episode, Keri and I talk about the YES I always talk about in my talks, on this show, and pretty much any time I am with young moms.  Read more . . .

Since Kathy and Lesli are not speaking at Homeschool Conferences this year, we thought you would like to hear them share some of the things they would tell you from a podium. Kathy has combined to of her fan favorite talks to share with you today. Grab a tissue and be prepared to take a trip down memory lane.

On this week’s podcast, Lesli speaks with Carol Reynolds, otherwise known as Professor Carol about introducing young children to classical music.  Carol speaks regularly to homeschooling families with the Classical Consortium.  She has developed a wonderful new songbook for families called Hurrah and Hallelujah. We talk about how to introduce music in your home, what to do if you are not musical yourself, and much much more!  

This week, Lesli and Kathy talk Valentine’s Day. This holiday is special to both of our show hosts and they definitely take a trip down memory lane as they share about this holiday of love.

This episode is a recording of a recent webinar. Lesli and Kathy invited some experienced moms to join them and discuss questions about our curriculum, homeschooling, and parenting. Some great advice was given and amazing resources were shared. Suggested Resources and More . . .

This week we are airing a conversation Kathy had with Samantha Barnes from Raddish Kids. Raddish Kids is a subscription-based cooking club for children. Kathy and Lesli have both used Raddish Kids and love the real tools and print rich instructions included each month. This would make a great Christmas present for your children. When cooking with children remember:1. Safety first. Make sure cooking tools are appropriate for young children. You can find knives and other utensils made for them.2. Let children create in the kitchen. The best chefs create their own recipes. We love this video of one of Kathy’s friends, Brittany allowing her kids to create in the kitchen first thing in the morning. 3. Make a print rich recipe book for young bakers/cooks.4. Keep it simple. Cracking and cooking eggs is a super first cooking lesson. 5. Invite children to be a part of the meal planning. 6. It can be cleaned up. Things will get knocked over and messed up when cooking with children. Remember, it can be cleaned up.7. Try again. If your children are not interested, do not give up. Keep inviting them into the kitchen.

This episode is actually the recording from a Webinar Lesli and Kathy hosted this week. We hope you enjoy!We discuss routines and schedules, organizing supplies, Invitations to play, and much more!

Definition of Thankfulness from Websters 1828 Dictionary: “Impressed with a sense of kindness received and ready to acknowledge it”Thankfulness implies a readiness to act! In this podcast, Kathy and Lesli talk about concrete ways to teach this to children throughout your day. This is a great month to not just think happy thoughts about how much we appreciate people but verbalize and repay their kindness. 1. Focus on you! What are you modeling?2. Teach your children to notice large and small things that others do for them and make sure they follow through on being thankful. 3. Cultivate a thankful heart through out the day. Let your children hear your appreciation.• Use concrete teaching methods:• Playing Highs and Lows at the dinner table • Creating a “Thankfulness Jar” to add to and review as a family• Car games: What is the best thing about…….? Let everyone take picking things and answering…. read more . . .

This week Kathy catches up with podcast favorite, Keri Vasek. Join in to hear Kathy and Keri talk honestly about life with four children. In this episode, Keri shares how she found A Year of Playing Skillfully and how she has implemented it over the years with her growing family. You don’t want to miss this conversation. Get ready to laugh and be inspired!

Today on the Play Skillfully podcast, Kathy and Lesli discuss how to use their award-winning curriculum, A Year of Playing Skillfully for the kindergarten year. Main Idea: Look for progress...not perfection! Developmental Information:If you question what you are asking of your child, use the website naeyc.org as a resource. The National Association for Young Children has excellent books and articles that will help you on this journey. Look for ways to teach in a very concrete manner with everyday objects! Workbooks are very abstract and make it harder developmentally to grasp concepts. Move to labeling everyday objects in your home so that your child is learning in a very concrete way. LIVE LIFE WITH YOUR KIDS! Invite them into your life and talk through your daily activities..you do kindergarten skills ALL DAY LONG. READ MORE

This week Kathy and Lesli talk about the A Year of Playing Skillfully October character trait, Orderliness. Orderliness is often described as systematic arrangement. Put simply, everything has a place. Kathy and Lesli share the importance of modeling orderliness for young children and practicing orderliness at home. When practicing orderliness, Kathy and Lesli suggest:1. Keep it short – children need 1-2 step instruction.2. Keep it simple – children can help put away dishes, clothes, etc.… but only a few at a time. Often children’s rooms and playrooms contain too many toys. This can overwhelm children, especially at cleaning time. 3. Keep it at their level – make sure children can safely reach areas to put items away.Kathy also recommends the book, The Home Edit and The Home Edit Life for anyone needing help with orderliness.

This week Kathy continues sharing from her special weekend a couple of years ago with moms from all over the country. In this episode, Kathy shares her thoughts on keeping your marriage strong during the early years. She also continues answering some burning questions about motherhood. You don’t want to miss this episode

This past week was Kathy’s birthday, so we thought it would be fun to play you a podcast that was recorded during her 50thbirthday party two years ago. Original show notes are below. As I approached 50 (my birthday is September 10th), I started thinking about the legacy I was leaving behind. As a young college student, I was discipled by several amazing women… Susan Felker, Betsy Stark, Donna George, and Debbie Mabry. These women poured into me in a variety of ways. Some met with me over yogurt, others invited me into their homes. I watched these women be wives and mothers from the front row. They impacted me. I felt led to do invite young moms into my home for the weekend. I wanted to give them a front row view into my imperfect life. I wanted to be raw and vulnerable with them; to show them that God uses hot messes like me to parent, to partner, and to love. We had a lovely weekend together. On this episode, the questions continue, and I rant a bit about subjects close to my heart. I am still learning on this journey. I don’t have much figured out. I do know that love is powerful and that we need other people in our lives. I pray you have people in your life that encourage you on the low days and celebrate with you on the high ones. We need each other.

This week Kathy shares how to turn your home into a pop-up preschool over a weekend. Kathy encourages parents to use items from home instead of running out and buying store bought “educational” items. Kathy suggests focusing on developing the whole child by offering a variety of invitations to play throughout the day. The following are the areas of development that should be included in your pop-up preschool:• Books• Sensory Experiences • Language Arts / Writing Area• Math / Manipulatives / Fine Motor• Science Basket • Outdoor / Gross Motor• Art• Self-Help