Podcasts about homeschool

If I were to ask you if your life ever felt tranquil, you would probably do one of two things: bust out laughing or look at me like I was from another planet.I get it, I really do. Which is why I'm so excited to have the author of one of my absolute tippy-top recommended books with me today. Laura Vanderkam is a time management expert, mother of five, and the author of Tranquility by Tuesday: 9 Ways to Calm the Chaos and Make Time for What Matters. Laura suggests that to bring more tranquility to our abundant, unpredictable lives, we don't need a perfect schedule, what we need is a resilient schedule. In the book, she outlines nine ways that will help us manage the chaos and live joyful, sustainable lives. It sounds much more accessible, right? Today, we're going to talk about how we can actually achieve tranquility in our lives, even in the busiest phases of our lives.In this episode, you'll hear: How to reframe the way you think about how much time you have (hint: it might be more than you think!) Why doing something three times a week counts as a habitThe rule that gets the most resistance, and why sticking to it is so essentialLearn more about Sarah Mackenzie:Read-Aloud RevivalWaxwing BooksSubscribe to the NewsletterFind the rest of the show notes at: readaloudrevival.com/laura-vanderkam Join us for the upcoming Circle with Sarah Retreat: Happy Homeschooling

So, you decided to homeschool and figured you'd just do what they do in school, right? But then you began and a whole world of possibilities opened up. Maybe now you are looking to pare down or possibly you are needing guidance on what needs to be the core of your home education and get out of being stuck in the weeds. No matter the reason, we really should sit down once in a while and figure out what we actually need to be doing. And you're in luck because that is what we're doing today! ♥ Leigh     JOIN REIMAGINE YOUR HOMESCHOOL BEFORE JANUARY 9TH! https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/reimagine     DESIGN YOUR FAMILY'S UNIQUE HOMESCHOOL THAT YOU'LL LOVE! https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/blueprint   CREATE YOUR HOMESCHOOL FAMILY'S HOME TASK SYSTEM https://www.littlebylittlehomeschool.com/tidyhome    GET EXCLUSIVE MENTORSHIP WITH LEIGH https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/mentorship   SIMPLIFY YOUR MEAL PLANNING https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/meal     Website -  https://www.littlebylittlehomeschool.com Newsletter -  https://littlebylittlehomeschool.myflodesk.com/subscribe Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/littlebylittlehomeschool/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/littlebylittlehomeschool/     Listen to these related episodes: 353. 5 Things That Confirmed Our Decision To Homeschool    368. Don't Miss Out On Reading These Books: My Family's Top Favorite List For All Ages    350. Finding the Balance Between Rules and Relationship in Homeschool Parenting 

Do you ever find yourself looking for the ”right way to homeschool?” Sometimes we get swept up in doing what others are doing and then find ourselves frustrated with the results. But how do we develop confidence to do what's right for our family, even if it isn't what everyone else is doing?In this episode from the archive, Carole sits down with her long-time friend, Kristina, to talk about their family's experience homeschooling.In this episode, you'll hear aboutHomeschooling multiple childrenKristina's experience using other methodsHow she learned to pay attention to her own intuitionThe value of the right book at the right time and the detriment of the wrong book at the wrong timeA natural way to see what a child learns as they read a bookRESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family's Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestHMS Essentials BundleMentioned in this episode:Join Us in Costa Mesa, CA January 31, 2026HMS 2026 SeminarsUnplugged Children BundleGive your child the gift of a nature-rich, low-tech childhood!Unplugged Children Bundle

Hey everybody, welcome back to The Smiling Homeschooler! We are kicking off our very first new show of the year. This is that time of year when everything just feels fresh again. Your brain gets a little reset, the stress of the holidays is gone, and it's a great chance to rethink the things that didn't work so well last semester. Maybe it's time to change a routine, toss some of the stuff that doesn't bring joy, or simplify a little. Co-ops are starting back up, routines are getting back in place, and before you know it, spring and summer will be here—whether you're ready or not! We will also be answering a listener's question and reading some of our listeners' highlights of 2025 and what they are looking forward to in 2026! It should be a fun and encouraging episode.  Before we get started, we want to thank Teaching Textbooks for making The Smiling Homeschooler possible. They're an amazing math curriculum, and we encourage you to check them out at teachingtextbooks.com. We'd also like to thank Samaritan Ministries—a community of Christians who help one another with medical bills. They make it possible for families to take steps of faith, whether that's a career change, a ministry opportunity, or bringing mom home. You can learn more and support us through the link https://hubs.ly/Q03VZL4d0   Have a great week and don't forget to smile!

The Break Room (WEDNESDAY 1/7/26) 8am Hour 1) According to this man the only way your kid is going to get a proper education is if they're learning from YOU 2) Punching glasses 3) Falling short on Jeopardy

“Slow living” is often presented as the cure for stress and overwhelm, especially for moms. But what if slowing down isn't the answer at all? Free Smile & Start Attitude Challenge: https://simplyconvivial.com/smileThe speed of life isn't the point. Working in the place God has put us and living in His grace and kindness that makes the impossible doable without stress, fast or slow, is the point.In this episode, I explain why slow living is a false ideal and how chasing a peaceful aesthetic can actually increase anxiety and burnout. Peace doesn't come from fewer responsibilities, fewer people, or a quieter-looking life. It comes from aligning our expectations with God's calling and trusting His grace to equip us for the work He's given us.Read the article version here: https://www.simplyconvivial.com/blog/slow-living-is-a-false-ideal/Minimizing your life doesn't automatically remove stress, social media aesthetics distort our standards, and Scripture calls us to zeal in good works, not retreat from them. God may call you to seasons that feel full, demanding, and intense. You can be cheerful and content in busy seasons, too.The speed of your life isn't the point. Faithfulness is.Christian homemaking takes deliberate practice, not perfect systems. Every week on Simply Convivial, I share practical mindset shifts and small, steady habits that help you build a home anchored in truth and run with cheerful consistency. If you want less overwhelm, stronger routines, and a more faithful way to manage your day, you're in the right place. Grab a basket of laundry, press play, and let's grow in cheerful productivity together.

In this episode of the LiberatED Podcast, Kerry McDonald is joined by Christina Stead and Hanna Lay, two homeschool mothers from St. George, Utah. Together they founded Desert Blossom Resource Center, a nonprofit created to support homeschooling families through community-led resources, monthly panel discussions, local events, and a growing online hub that now connects more than 80 families across southern Utah. Originally envisioned as a physical community space, Desert Blossom has evolved into a virtual and community-driven model while the founders work toward securing a permanent location for future lending libraries, microschools, co-ops, and collaborative learning spaces. Christina and Hanna share how their idea began over a decade ago, how COVID reshaped their plans, and how Utah's rapid homeschooling growth has created both opportunity and urgency for better support systems. This episode is a must-listen for familes and founders who are eager to build the ecosystems that help homeschoolers and microschoolers truly thrive. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!  

In this episode, we are digging into a SparkNotes-style digest of our recent book club selection - The Anxious Generation. We talk about kids, screens, anxiety, and the cultural pressures shaping childhood right now. We'd love to invite you to join our book club.  Reading books like this among community matters so much. Homeschooling can feel isolating, but processing complex topics alongside like-minded people helps fill your cup, sharpen your thinking, and remind you that you're not navigating this alone. Our next book club selection is How to raise kids who aren't assholes : science-based strategies for better parenting-from tots to teens.Click here to learn more: ⁠https://bit.ly/3X5R0gI⁠  Use code BOOKWORM for 90% of your first month!  Jumpstart your homeschooling with our online courses:Homeschool 101: The No-Panic Boot Camp - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/nopanichomeschool⁠ And, purchase the workbook here:  https://a.co/d/fehPA6G The Smart Start Guide to Homeschool Curriculum - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/curriculumnbundle⁠ Preschool and Kindergarten, Reimagine: A Complete Guide for Homeschooling Littles  - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/earlyed101⁠  Find Meagan's book - 101 Comebacks to Homeschool Objections: Polite replies, powerful comebacks, and everything in between... here: https://a.co/d/iTRH14Y Explore Outschool!  Use code BUDGET50 to save 50% off your first three months of membership.https://outschool.com/ Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.⁠https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Every month we release a themed unit study that is secular and progressive.  We focus on own-voice sources and inclusive learning opportunities.  ⁠https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/homeschool-moms-unfiltered⁠ Visit our website here:  ⁠https://homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/⁠ Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/⁠ FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ 

Some days it feels like pulling teeth just to get your kids to open a book or pick up a pencil. In this episode, we're digging into the challenge of homeschool motivation. What do you do when your kids just aren't interested? We'll explore practical ways to spark curiosity, reduce resistance, and build buy-in without constant power struggles. If homeschool is starting to feel like a daily battle, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to bring back the joy. Find Secular Curriculum with our Resource Selector https://www.homeschool-together.com/secular-resources Support The Podcast If you like what you hear, consider supporting the podcast: https://homeschooltogether.gumroad.com/l/support Consider Leaving Us A Review If you have a quick moment, please consider leaving a review on iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-together-podcast/id1526685583 Show Notes Stardew Valley - https://www.stardewvalley.net/ De-Schooling Part 1 - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/329 De-Schooling Part 2 - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/331 Homeschool Burnout - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/89 When Big Commitments Lead to Big Burnout - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/404 Get On The Floor - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/363 Connect with us Website: http://www.homeschool-together.com/ Store: https://gumroad.com/homeschooltogether Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/homeschooltogether Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltogetherpodcast/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschooltogetherpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/hs_together The Gameschool Co-Op: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gameschoolcoop/ Email: homeschooltogetherpodcast@gmail.com

What does real consistency look like in a homeschool—beyond perfect plans and good intentions? In this episode, I sit down with longtime homeschooler and community leader Dawn Garrett to talk about the kind of steady, everyday effort that truly shapes learning and family life.We talk about why consistency matters, what can make it hard, how to start small, and why “showing up” can look different from season to season. Dawn shares honest lessons from her own journey, simple routines that work, and encouragement for the days when it feels like you're starting over… again.If you've ever struggled to keep going—or wondered if everyone else has it more together—this conversation is a reminder that consistency is something we build over time.Listen in, and then tell us: What does consistency look like in your home right now?Show Notes:Minimum Viable Day - Start HereMorning Time on the Go podcast episodeBlog: Why I Need a Scheduled RoutineHomeschool Better TogetherContact: LadyDusk.comInsta ladyduskcommunity.pambarnhill.comhttps://pambarnhill.com/how-to-be-more-flexible-with-your-homeschooling/https://pambarnhill.com/kids-awake-early/https://pambarnhill.com/finding-time-for-morning-time/https://pambarnhill.com/how-to-homeschool-with-confidence/https://pambarnhill.com/benefits-homeschool-consistency/https://pambarnhill.com/scheduled-routine/https://pambarnhill.com/best-morning-habits/https://pambarnhill.com/quick-and-easy-homeschool-breakfasts/

Welcome to the first episode of 2026 of The Home School Show from North Carolinians for Home Education! Hosts Amanda Wares and Melanie Willis kick off the new year with encouragement, practical guidance, and timely updates for homeschool families.Amanda and Melanie discuss how the new year is a natural time to reflect, reset, and refocus in your homeschool. Whether your fall semester was a success or a struggle, this is a great moment to:Evaluate what worked and what didn'tLet go of curriculum or routines that aren't serving your familyImplement new habits like family read-aloud or Bible timeGive yourself grace—especially if this is your first year homeschoolingThe hosts remind parents that pivoting is not failure, and sometimes a simple reset can make a big difference.The episode highlights the importance of preparing now for the ESA Plus Program, which has been a game changer for many special needs homeschool families.Applications open February 1 and typically close in early MarchRequired documentation takes time to gatherListeners are encouraged to revisit Episode 190 for a full breakdown of the programEven if you're not ready to apply this year, learning the process now can help you prepare for the future.k12.ncseaa.edu/the-education-student-accounts/how-to-apply/ Amanda answers real questions from homeschooling parents, including:How to respond when a teacher discourages a child from homeschoolingEncouragement for first-year homeschool parents experiencing “mid-year panic”Key takeaways include reinforcing your why, offering reassurance to your child, extending grace, and seeking support from fellow homeschoolers. The hosts also highlight NCHE's mentor program as a valuable resource for struggling families.The episode wraps up with exciting opportunities for North Carolina homeschoolers:♟️ Free Online Chess Workshop – January 8  nche.com/chessworkshop/ 

If homeschooling has been on your heart - or if you started but you're still trying to find your rhythm - then this episode is where I want you to begin! In part 1 of my “Your Homeschool Reset” series, I'm walking you through why vision is the true foundation of homeschooling and how getting clear on your why can bring immediate clarity, confidence, and direction to your homeschool journey. I talk about: Why starting with vision is the right first step A clearer way to think about what a homeschool vision really is—without overcomplicating it Why your vision doesn't need to be perfect or permanent to be powerful ⏰ READY FOR MORE SUPPORT? If you're ready to make homeschooling a reality for your family in 2026, your timing is perfect! My group coaching program, “The Homeschool Launch Blueprint Collective” kicks off later this month, and you can join the waitlist now to be the first to know when doors open!

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by trying to fit every subject into every day—or guilty when real life throws your plans off - then you need to consider looping! Show notes are at https://www.4onemore.com/340

We all want to enjoy the little years of homeschooling, but we also have this nagging feeling we aren't doing enough. When do we need to get serious about when and what we are teaching? Get my book: Flexible Homeschool Planning to make your plans work no matter what kind of week you've had! Resources mentioned: Podcast #26 - How Many Hours Does It Take to Homeschool? Podcast #138 - Tests Don't Teach Podcast #178 - Testing Your Child's Knowledge Without Tests Podcast #183 - Creating a Homeschool Transcript How Many Hours Does it Take to Homeschool? (free download) Preschool & Kindergarten Curriculum for Large Families Wonderment Curriculum Review of Peaceful Preschool Tapestry of Grace (page full of resources on my blog) How we use Apologia Science Berean Builders Science  

What does it really cost to keep homeschool freedom alive? Zan welcomes longtime friend and homeschool freedom pioneer Mike Farris for a timely conversation about where home education stands in 2026. Together they reflect on recent legislative threats, hard-won battles, and the sobering truth that freedom disappears when families stop paying attention. Be encouraged to stay engaged, tell the story of freedom well, and guard what generations before you fought to secure. SHOW NOTES https://zantyler.com/podcast/178-mike-farris LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey. YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3   Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2  CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast  Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast  Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool  TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast  Twitter/X: https://x.com/ZanTyler  SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL https://bjupresshomeschool.com/zan

Most overwhelmed moms keep looking for the perfect planner, the right app, or a better routine. But deep down, you already know that no external system is going to fix overwhelm.The problem isn't your tools. The problem is in your thinking.In this final episode of the series Why Perfectionism Makes Homemaking Feel Overwhelming, we get straight to the real solution: support, community, and mindset change. Perfectionism grows in isolation. It loosens its grip when you stop trying to manage everything alone.In this video, you'll learn• why perfectionism thrives when you're isolated with your thoughts• how community resets unrealistic expectations• why sharing small wins matters more than waiting for big results• how accountability builds follow-through without pressure• three practical ways to practice repent, rejoice, repeatHomemaking is real work. It takes attention, effort, and wisdom. It's not something to be embarrassed about or hidden. It's worth talking about, sharing strategies for, and growing in together.That's why I created Convivial Circle—a community for women who want to practice cheerful, faithful stewardship at home without chasing perfection or pretending the work is effortless.Inside Convivial Circle, we• confront perfectionism together• practice baby-step progress• build routines that fit real families• develop accountability through small standup groups• grow in skill, confidence, and joyful responsibilityIf you're tired of trying to fix overwhelm on your own, this is your invitation to stop isolating and start building momentum with support.

Overwhelm isn't caused by how much you have to do. It's caused by perfectionism.If you constantly feel behind, discouraged, or frozen when you look at your home, this video explains why. The problem isn't your schedule, your kids, or your to-do list. It's the unrealistic standards you're measuring your real life against.In this video, I explain• why a full life is not the same thing as an overwhelming life• how perfectionism creates paralysis, procrastination, and burnout• why planning and organizing often make overwhelm worse• how perfectionism fuels the boom and bust cycle so many moms experienceOnce you can identify perfectionism at work, you can start undoing it.If you want a simple way to begin letting go of perfectionism, I'll send you my free Smile & Start Challenge by email. You'll get three short, practical emails that help you take small steps instead of chasing perfect plans.

Overwhelmed by all there is to do at home? If you feel like you're failing at managing your home, ask yourself this first: what standard are you judging yourself against?For many homemakers, discouragement doesn't come from real life. It comes from comparing their homes to idealized images on Instagram and YouTube. Soft music. White farmhouses. Perfect routines. No interruptions. No mess. No real work.That picture is not the goal—and it was never meant to be.In this video, I explain how perfectionism sabotages your attempts to get organized and why so many systems fail before they even begin. The problem isn't your effort or your desire to be responsible. The problem is trying to live up to a false standard that doesn't match real family life.You'll learn• how perfectionism hides behind “high standards” and good intentions• why planning and organizing often turn into avoidance• how perfectionism creates the boom-and-bust cycle• why baby steps are the only way out of overwhelm• how 10 minutes of real action beats perfect plans every timeReal progress in homemaking comes through steady, incremental improvement—not flawless execution or aesthetic ideals.If you want help getting started, I have a free Smile & Start Challenge that delivers three simple baby steps by email over three days.

If systems alone could fix overwhelm, you wouldn't still feel overwhelmed.By the time most homemakers find this video, they've already tried planners, routines, schedules, and organizing systems. The problem isn't that those systems failed. The problem is that systems were never meant to be the starting point.In this episode, I explain the mindset shift that actually dissolves overwhelm: moving from perfectionism and control to stewardship and faithfulness.You'll learn• why perfectionism looks productive but leads to procrastination and burnout• the difference between control and stewardship in homemaking• why faithful action today matters more than ideal conditions tomorrow• how iteration replaces guilt with growth• why small, incremental steps expand your capacity over timeOverwhelm grows when you measure yourself against an imagined future version of your life. Peace grows when you steward what's right in front of you with humility, faithfulness, and patience.This video introduces iteration—the practice of making small changes, evaluating what's working, and building forward over time. It's the opposite of chasing perfect plans, and it's how real progress is made in real homes.If you want help practicing this mindset, my free Smile & Start Challenge will give you daily encouragement and simple, incremental steps by email.

Living biblically in today's culture often feels strange, extreme, or even offensive to others. In this episode, we talk about what it actually looks like to live out the Bible in a world that increasingly rejects it.From homeschooling and home birth, to one-income households, stay-at-home motherhood, and fathers providing and leading their families — we discuss why these choices are becoming so controversial, even among Christians.This isn't about tradition for tradition's sake or chasing a “trad” aesthetic. It's about obedience, conviction, and building a home centered on Scripture rather than culture.If you've ever felt pressure to compromise biblical convictions to fit in, this conversation is for you.✝️ EVANGELISM COACHING! https://christ-developed.com

Feeling ready for a reset after the holidays? Discover how to transform post-holiday blahs into purposeful new beginnings that energize your entire homeschool family. Join Lisa Bailey as she welcomes Alicia Clark and Ginny Tran for an encouraging conversation about embracing fresh starts after the holiday season. Whether you experience post-holiday letdown or sail smoothly into January, this episode offers practical wisdom for families ready to refocus. The conversation explores how different families navigate the transition from busy holidays into a new year. Alicia shares how her family uses that restful week between Christmas and New Year's to regroup and prepare their hearts for what's ahead. Ginny describes how her family keeps excitement going by always looking forward to the next fun thing, from extended family celebrations to summer camp. The discussion dives deep into the power of assessment and goal-setting, particularly the importance of bringing children into these conversations. Both guests share how they help their kids understand not just what they're learning, but why they're learning it. From five-year-olds setting reading goals to eleven-year-olds tackling triple crown memory master, the conversation illustrates how ownership and understanding can motivate students of all ages. The episode also addresses promoting balanced growth in mind, body, and spirit. Alicia and Ginny emphasize recognizing where God is already at work in your family's life and joining Him there. They encourage parents to present a "feast" of opportunities without demanding mastery of everything, following children's curiosity to build relationships that last.   This episode of the Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/   National Number Knockout 2027 Does your student think math is boring? What if they stopped seeing math as drill work and started seeing it as an exciting mental sport? That's the power of National Number Knockout, a nationwide mental math competition that's transforming how students think about numbers. Here's how basic Number Knockout works: Students ages 10-14 use three dice and a 6x6 grid to create as many mathematical equations as possible in just 60 seconds. It's fast, strategic, and seriously addictive. In spring of 2027, 16 national finalists will compete aboard a Caribbean cruise for grand prizes. But the real win? Whether your student makes it to nationals or just plays at home, they're building lightning-fast mental math skills and genuine mathematical confidence—watching them fall in love with mathematics. National Number Knockout—where math becomes a game, and every student can win. Visit www.classicalconversations.com/n2k to find free resources and learn about the 2027 competition.

Everyone says you need endless patience to homeschool… and we're calling BS. Beyond that, in this episode, we are going to unpack where that belief comes from, who it quietly excludes, and why impatience is often a signal… not a failure. From burnout and unrealistic expectations to repair, regulation, and systems that actually work, we talk about what kids really need from the adults teaching them. Spoiler: it's not a 24/7 zen parent/caregiver… it's real humans who can adapt, reset, and keep going.Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live support meetings, socials, and even a book club.  Join here: ⁠https://bit.ly/3X5R0gI⁠  Use code HMU90 for 90% of your first month!  Jumpstart your homeschooling with our online courses:Homeschool 101: The No-Panic Boot Camp - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/nopanichomeschool⁠ And, purchase the workbook here:  https://a.co/d/fehPA6G The Smart Start Guide to Homeschool Curriculum - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/curriculumnbundle⁠ Preschool and Kindergarten, Reimagine: A Complete Guide for Homeschooling Littles  - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/earlyed101⁠  Find Meagan's book - 101 Comebacks to Homeschool Objections: Polite replies, powerful comebacks, and everything in between. - here: https://a.co/d/iTRH14Y Explore Outschool!  Use code BUDGET50 to save 50% off your first three months of membership.https://outschool.com/ Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.⁠https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Every month we release a themed unit study that is secular and progressive.  We focus on own-voice sources and inclusive learning opportunities.  ⁠https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/homeschool-moms-unfiltered⁠ Visit our website here:  ⁠https://homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/⁠ Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/⁠ FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠

In this second part of our series on the benefits of homeschooling, we shift our focus to the parents. Homeschooling isn't just about the kids; it's also about creating a fulfilling, flexible, and meaningful experience for parents. We'll explore how homeschooling can lead to stronger family bonds, greater control over your family's time, and the satisfaction of playing a direct role in your child's education. Greater Control Over Family Schedule Strengthened Family Bonds Personal and Professional Growth Customized Educational Philosophies Financial Considerations Parent Satisfaction and Fulfillment Flexibility in Teaching Methods Work-Life Integration Find Secular Curriculum with our Resource Selector https://www.homeschool-together.com/secular-resources Support The Podcast If you like what you hear, consider supporting the podcast: https://homeschooltogether.gumroad.com/l/support Consider Leaving Us A Review If you have a quick moment, please consider leaving a review on iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-together-podcast/id1526685583 Show Notes The Benefits of Homeschooling - Part 1 - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/398 To Homeschool or Not To Homeschool - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/323 Connect with us Website: http://www.homeschool-together.com/ Store: https://gumroad.com/homeschooltogether Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/homeschooltogether Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltogetherpodcast/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschooltogetherpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/hs_together The Gameschool Co-Op: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gameschoolcoop/ Email: homeschooltogetherpodcast@gmail.com****

In this final part of our three-part series, I'm diving into the struggle that every single homeschooling mom deals with: your own fears, anxieties, and the sneaky belief that you are not enough.  I'm unpacking, what I call, the Litany of Not Enough that so many of us carry every day, how it's impacting your relationships, and your homeschooling, and why doing more will never heal it. Today, I'm talking about what it really means to live in Right Order and giving you several key shifts to make that you can implement today to calm your heart and lean into this beautiful vocation of motherhood and homeschooling that God has called you to. This final episode in this three-part series is like a mini-retreat and masterclass for your mama's heart, your mindset, and learning how to rest into this vocation with trust, surrender, hope, and grace all wrapped up into one.  If you've ever felt inadequate, overwhelmed, or exhausted by trying to be enough, then grab your earbuds and join me for: A Catholic Homeschool Mom's Guide to Putting Your Life in Right Order, Part 3: Your Mama's Heart and the Litany of Not Enough Take advantage of the Annual Membership Sale HERE before midnight on December 31, 2025!

Re-Envision Your Homeschool: Purpose-Driven Homeschool Planning for 2026 By my eighth year of homeschooling, something really began to shift for me. Every year between Christmas and New Year's, I would set aside a few days for purpose-driven homeschool planning for 2026—reflecting on what worked, what didn't, and what actually mattered. I was paying more attention to the atmosphere, the relationships, and each person's unique strengths and interests. Over time, I was asking better questions, and that reflection became less about overhauling our homeschool and more about recalibrating it. I began to approach our homeschool as a purpose-driven homeschool—not something to perfect, but something that could be adjusted thoughtfully, one small shift at a time. I learned to focus on what mattered and let go of what didn't. At the same time, I was letting go of who I thought I was supposed to be as a homeschool mom and growing into who I actually was. That combination—reflection, self-trust, and permission to be imperfect—was the most life-changing personal work. It's not a coincidence that around year eight, my confidence began to soar. Confidence didn't come from getting it all right. It came from trusting myself, aligning our homeschool with our values, and allowing both my kids and myself to evolve. That's also why, for the past five years, I've offered a re-envisioning and planning workshop for homeschool moms. Because we need to pause long enough to realign our intentions for ourselves, our kids, our relationships, and our life vision. Re-Envision My Homeschool for 2026 Why Purpose-Driven Homeschool Planning Matters Every year, I talk to homeschool moms who say the same thing at this year: “I need to shake things up.” Not because last year was all bad—but because what once felt like the right approach doesn't quite fit anymore. Sometimes what moms really want is to recalibrate and figure out what truly matters. They wonder if they need a new curriculum, when often the real question isn't the curriculum itself. It's how it's being used, whether it still fits this season, or whether everyone simply needs a break. Sometimes the recalibration is about assessing whether the environment you've created is actually conducive to engagement. Every mom wants a motivated child, and every mom will eventually have at least one child who isn't motivated at all. Motivation is tricky. We're all unmotivated at times—that's just being human. But sometimes a small environmental shift can make learning feel more supportive and energized. Often, we don't need to overhaul everything. We just need to recalibrate. How to Reflect and Recalibrate Your Homeschool for 2026 In this episode, I walk through the kind of reflection we'll do together inside the Re-Envision 2026 workshop. We'll look at: What went well this past year What actually worked for your kids Where engagement was high Where it wasn't What you're genuinely looking forward to What drained you This reflection gives you information—about your kids, your homeschool environment, your energy, your needs, and your relationships. When you understand what worked and what didn't, you stop guessing and begin planning with intention. Creating a “You” Plan for a Purpose-Driven Homeschool One of the core ideas of this workshop is simple: You are the most important element in your purpose-driven homeschool. If you want a calm, confident, present homeschool mom at the center of your home, your wellness cannot be optional. During the workshop, we will: Clarify what wellness strategies you need in the upcoming season Create a personalized burnout prevention plan Identify what support actually helps you stay regulated, focused, and present This is about creating a sustainable homeschool life—especially as we move into the post-Christmas slump season. Child-Inspired Learning & Engagement in a Purpose-Driven Homeschool We'll also explore: How your kids engaged this past year Where resistance showed up How to lean more fully into child-inspired learning How to enable a more motivated, calm, engaged environment This isn't about forcing motivation. It's about noticing patterns and responding intentionally with the next right step for each of your kids. Tools and Assessments to Support Your Purpose-Driven Homeschool During the workshop, you'll work through: A self-awareness assessment A homeschool assessment A wellness assessment You'll also receive: The Homeschool Mom Vision Planner The Wellness Journal for Homeschool Mamas These tools are designed to help you stay connected, be more present, and revisit your vision throughout the year—not just during one workshop. 2026 Homeschool Mom Vision Planner Start your homeschool year with clarity and confidence using the 2026 Homeschool Mom Vision Planner. This thoughtfully designed planner includes reflective prompts, practical tools, and space to align your homeschooling journey with your personal growth and family goals. Plan with purpose and create a year filled with joy and intention! $14.99 Original price was: $14.99.$12.99Current price is: $12.99. Shop now Join the Re-Envision 2026 Workshop Re-Envision 2026: Recalibrate Your Homeschool

What happens when a mom who never planned to homeschool realizes she wants her child back? In this episode, Jackie talks with Carrie Strong, author and homeschooling mom of four, about the moment everything shifted—and what she wishes parents knew before they ever begin. This is a conversation about confidence, connection, and letting go of the pressure to "do it right." If you've ever wondered whether you're capable—or felt the quiet pull toward something different—this episode is for you.

Do you have homemaking goals for the coming year? Do you want to make real progress at home in 2026 but don't want another year of overambitious goals that fall apart by February? You need Community Coaching: https://simplyconvivial.com/coachingIn this episode, I walk through three ways to set homemaking goals that actually fit mom life. Not business goals. Not productivity guru goals. Homemaking goals that work when your days are interrupted, your plans change, and real life keeps happening.You'll learn why focusing on basic daily routines matters more than big projects, how choosing a word of the year can shape your attitude and habits, and why accountability is essential if you want progress instead of perfectionism. This is about steady improvement, not picture-perfect outcomes.If you want to invest in your home, your family, and your calling as a homemaker without setting yourself up for failure, this video will help you think clearly and plan wisely for the year ahead.Christian homemaking takes deliberate practice, not perfect systems. Every week on Simply Convivial, I share practical mindset shifts and small, steady habits that help you build a home anchored in truth and run with cheerful consistency. If you want less overwhelm, stronger routines, and a more faithful way to manage your day, you're in the right place. Grab a basket of laundry, press play, and let's grow in cheerful productivity together.

In this episode, we invite you into a real homeschool coaching session with Devyn, a newer homeschooler navigating middle school, big-picture planning, and the day-to-day realities of making homeschooling actually work for her family. We talk through curriculum choices, options for decolonized history, structure vs. flexibility, and how to support kids while building independence.  What's the difference between this episode and all of our others?  We'll be showing what it looks like when homeschool advice becomes specific, personalized, and doable. If you've ever thought, “This all makes sense in theory, but how does it work for us?” this episode is for you. And if you decide you'd like that kind of support for your own homeschool, we're offering 25% off coaching sessions through December 31, 2025.  Sessions can be booked now and scheduled for dates into 2026. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.  Use the coupon code in the Calendly description to apply the discount.  You can find our calendar here:  ⁠https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live support meetings, socials, and even a book club.  Join here: ⁠https://bit.ly/3X5R0gI⁠  Use code HMU90 for 90% of your first month!  Jumpstart your homeschooling with our online courses:Homeschool 101: The No-Panic Boot Camp - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/nopanichomeschool⁠ And, purchase the workbook here:  https://a.co/d/fehPA6G The Smart Start Guide to Homeschool Curriculum - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/curriculumnbundle⁠ Preschool and Kindergarten, Reimagine: A Complete Guide for Homeschooling Littles  - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/earlyed101⁠  Find Meagan's book - 101 Comebacks to Homeschool Objections: Polite replies, powerful comebacks, and everything in between. - here: https://a.co/d/iTRH14Y Explore Outschool!  Use code BUDGET50 to save 50% off your first three months of membership.https://outschool.com/ Every month we release a themed unit study that is secular and progressive.  We focus on own-voice sources and inclusive learning opportunities.  ⁠https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/homeschool-moms-unfiltered⁠ Visit our website here:  ⁠https://homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/⁠ Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/⁠ FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ 

Pretty soon, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season will be over and it will be back to reality. You know, that one where you homeschool. It can be hard to transition into the routine again, especially if you've had a really good Christmas season. Where did you actually leave off? Do you need to do everything that you were doing before? Is there a way to change things up that weren't working? Let's answer those questions and more as you work to wrap your mind around restarting the second half of the homeschool year. And not only that, let's set you up to do really well! ♥ Leigh     DESIGN YOUR FAMILY'S UNIQUE HOMESCHOOL THAT YOU'LL LOVE! https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/blueprint   CREATE YOUR HOMESCHOOL FAMILY'S HOME TASK SYSTEM https://www.littlebylittlehomeschool.com/tidyhome    GET EXCLUSIVE MENTORSHIP WITH LEIGH https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/mentorship   SIMPLIFY YOUR MEAL PLANNING https://littlebylittlehomeschool.com/meal     Website -  https://www.littlebylittlehomeschool.com Newsletter -  https://littlebylittlehomeschool.myflodesk.com/subscribe Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/littlebylittlehomeschool/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/littlebylittlehomeschool/     Listen to these related episodes: 204. How YOU Are Sabotaging Success in Your Homeschool and 4 Steps to Get Out of The Cycle    289. Change How You Feel Each Day: Tips To Have More Energy As A Homeschool Mom    341. Master This And Watch Your Homeschool Days Get Better 

Holiday Encore Episode In this episode, we dive into the various benefits that homeschooling can offer children. From personalized learning to emotional well-being, we'll explore the advantages that make homeschooling a unique and valuable educational choice for families. Whether you're considering homeschooling or are already on this path, this episode will give you insights into how this approach can positively impact your child's development. Personalized Learning Academic Performance Social and Emotional Benefits Development of Lifelong Learning Skills Flexibility in Education Cultivating Interests and Passions Socialization Opportunities Find Secular Curriculum with our Resource Selector https://www.homeschool-together.com/secular-resources Support The Podcast If you like what you hear, consider supporting the podcast: https://homeschooltogether.gumroad.com/l/support Consider Leaving Us A Review If you have a quick moment, please consider leaving a review on iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-together-podcast/id1526685583 Show Notes Deep Work - https://todoist.com/inspiration/deep-work Free Range Kids - https://www.freerangekids.com/ To Homeschool or Not To Homeschool - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/323 Connect with us Website: http://www.homeschool-together.com/ Store: https://gumroad.com/homeschooltogether Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/homeschooltogether Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltogetherpodcast/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschooltogetherpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/hs_together The Gameschool Co-Op: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gameschoolcoop/ Email: homeschooltogetherpodcast@gmail.com****

What if your homeschool didn't feel like a checklist, but a life-giving journey? In this Best of Homeschool Super Heroes Workshop episode, Julie Ross shares the tools of a Charlotte Mason education and how they can bring peace, beauty, and connection to your home.You'll learn how to apply these tools—atmosphere, discipline, and life—in a way that nourishes both your children and yourself. This gentle philosophy isn't about replicating school at home; it's about building something far more meaningful.Here's what you'll take away:✅ What it really means to create a homeschool “atmosphere”✅ How habits form the foundation of discipline (without nagging)✅ Why ideas are the most powerful food for the mind✅ How to foster solitude, attention, and curiosity✅ The secret to cultivating beauty and truth in your homeThis week only, you can grab my Charlotte Mason Tool Kit for 50% off as a way to put these ideas into practice without overwhelm. Mentioned Resources: Charlotte Mason Tool Kit - SAVE 50% with code: CM50Show Notes: Welcome to the Three Tools of a Life-Giving EducationHey, hello everyone. Welcome to the three tools of a life-giving education. I'm so excited to talk to you today about these amazing tools that we have for free.Charlotte Mason said, "Education is an atmosphere and a discipline and a life more important than the curriculum you're using." That's just one of the tools. Any resource you use can be shaped and guided according to these three tools to give your children a life-giving education.Before we dive into today's talk, I just want to introduce myself. I'm Julie Ross. I'm the creator of the Charlotte Mason curriculum, A Gentle Feast. I'm a homeschool veteran of over 20 years. I have five kiddos—one has graduated recently from college and then the other will be a senior in college in neuroscience next year. And then I have three teenagers that I'm still homeschooling.So I've been homeschooling for a while. Before that, I was a public school educator and I helped start a private Christian school. So I've been in the educational space for about 30 years now. And I'm also a certified Christian life coach. So I'm going to bring in all my experience as a teacher, as a homeschool mom, as a coach, and bring that all in and hopefully give you a really practical look at how these three tools of a Charlotte Mason education can help transform your homeschool.Tool #1: Education Is an AtmosphereSo let's start off with the first one. Education is an atmosphere. What in the world does that even mean? That seems so bizarre. Atmosphere, what does it have to do? How is that a tool to help guide our education?I would say this is in fact one of the most, if not the most important tool. Charlotte Mason said, "Therefore, we are limited to three educational instruments: the atmosphere of environment, the discipline of habit, and the presentation of living ideas." Going back again to the motto, education is an atmosphere, discipline, and a life.So, what are we talking about when we're talking about the atmosphere of your home or the home environment? This is from a Parents' Review article. That's the magazine that Charlotte Mason edited. And this author wrote, "There are many important aspects of home life, from first training to highest education, but there is nothing in the way of direct teaching that will ever have so wide and lasting an effect as the atmosphere of home."And the gravest thought concerning this is that in this instant, there's nothing to learn and nothing to teach. The atmosphere emanates from ourselves as the parents. It literally is ourselves. Our children live in it and breathe it and what we are is thus incorporated into them. There is no pretense here or possibility of evasion. We may deceive ourselves in the long run. We never deceive our children. The spirit of home lives in what is more—home atmosphere is accentuated in them. Atmosphere is much more than teaching and infinitely more than talk.And when I first read this quote, I was unbelievably convicted. Because the atmosphere of my home at the time was not what I wanted. It was not what I wanted my homeschool to be like. I felt like I was a drill sergeant constantly giving out orders, constantly wondering like why is this not done? This was supposed to be done minutes ago. Everybody get in the car. We got to go to this and we were just hurry hurry hurry stress stress stress stress.And I was like, this isn't why I homeschooled. This isn't the atmosphere I want to create. Because Charlotte Mason is saying here, this atmosphere that you might not even realize is what is going on in your home is going to have such a lasting effect on your children.What Atmosphere Do You Want to Create?I wanted my children to feel like school and learning was just part of life and it was this beautiful atmosphere. I wanted us to have deep connections. I wanted my kids to be curious. I wanted them to have time to be creative. And I realized that by me being stressed out all the time, I was actually hurting my children and creating an atmosphere of our home that was not conducive to learning.And so if this quote really convicts you as well, I have some hope. So basically what she's saying is that education is an atmosphere. Our children are breathing it. We can't see it, right? And that these become the ideas which rule their lives. They're getting this from us.So, we are the thermostats of our homes. We're setting the temperature. We are either making it really hot, really stressful, really high pressure environment, or we can make the atmosphere of our home peaceful, joyous. Isn't that what we all want, right?So, what words would you use to describe the current atmosphere of your home? This might be something you've never even thought of before. Because before I read Charlotte Mason's teaching, I never—all I was thinking about was like our to-do list and am I choosing the right curriculum and what does our schedule look like and never considered how I was showing up and how that was affecting the temperature of our home. What word would you describe the atmosphere of your home?Common Homeschool Thoughts That Create StressAnd I want you to think about if you've ever had these thoughts in your homeschool: We are so far behind. My child is so difficult. It shouldn't be this hard. I don't know what I'm doing. I'm going to mess up my child. We are constantly butting heads about school. My child is not working up to their potential. I'm overwhelmed.Have you ever had any of these thoughts? I'm guessing most of us who are listening to this have. I know I have had all of those. That's why I wrote them down.If we want to change the atmosphere of our home, we have to be willing to get really honest with ourselves, be willing to pause and to ask ourselves, what am I thinking about my homeschool on a regular basis?How Your Thoughts Create Your AtmosphereWhen I read these words to you, how does that make you feel? For me, I feel like I have a weight like right here. Like I can't breathe. I feel all shame, guilt. You might feel afraid, discouraged, disappointed.And when we have these feelings, which are coming from what we're continually telling ourselves, our continual thoughts and stories, and we have these feelings, it affects the way that we show up. And we're not showing up as our most calm, peaceful, loving selves. And that's creating an atmosphere that we don't want.So in order to create the atmosphere that we do want, we have to look at taking our thoughts captive and by telling ourselves a different story.Charlotte Mason put it this way: "Let not the nervous, anxious, worried mother think this easy, happy relation with her children is for her. She may be the best mother in the world, but the thing that her children will get from her in these moods is a touch of her nervousness, most catching of complaints. She will find them fractious, rebellious, unmanageable, and will be slow to realize that it is her fault. Not the fault of her act, but of her state."So, not the fault of the actions, even though those do have such a great effect, but it's coming from your state, your thoughts. What are you feeling on a regular basis? And are your children catching that?I used to think my children complain all the time. And then I realized, oh, I'm the one complaining all the time. Why is it taking you so long to do that? That should have been finished already. I can't believe you don't understand that. Why do I always have to come back up after you and clean up? And then I wondered why they had bad attitudes. Right?I had to turn the mirror around and look at myself and say, "What am I producing in this atmosphere? How am I showing up?"Changing Your Thoughts to Change Your AtmosphereAnd like I said, we can focus on our actions and be like, I just need to respond in anger less. I just need to respond with a more gentle voice. Yes, that's all true. But we can't just will ourselves to change our action without changing our state, without changing the thoughts that we're thinking on a regular basis.So change your thoughts and change the atmosphere of your home. It sounds easier, really. It sounds a lot easier than it actually is. But when you get into the practice of it, most of us don't even know what we're thinking ever. We just live our lives on autopilot. So, we're just always in reaction mode.So, taking the time to pause and say, "What do I actually think on a regular basis? What am I telling myself about myself as a homeschool mom or about our homeschool, about my kids, and how is that affecting my mood and then my actions?"So, how do we change our thoughts? So, first of all, be mindful throughout the day. Start to take notice, which means you actually have to have margin in your day to pause. Think on purpose. Tell yourself what you're going to think instead. And I'll give you some hints for that in a second.Training Your Brain to Find the GoodAnd then start to find the good. Our brains are naturally wired to keep us safe. So they will find all the things that are wrong. If I said, "What's not working in your homeschool?" You probably could tell me 10 things. And if I said, "How have you been successful in your homeschool this year?" That might be a little harder for you to think of something because our brains naturally look for what's wrong to keep us safe.And so your brain is doing that all day long. It's looking for all this evidence and all these things that are wrong. We need to train it to start finding the good. That means starting to celebrate the small things. Oh my goodness, my son just shared his pencil with his sister. Oh my goodness, like that read aloud. That was so impactful. Oh my goodness, like we went on our nature walk and nobody got hurt.Start to have gratitude for those small things and it will change the way your brain is seeing things that are already there. You're already doing good things. Your brain's just naturally filtering them out trying to find the things that are wrong.Thoughts to Tell Yourself on PurposeSo let's go back to this telling your brain what to think on purpose. We're going to be intentional here. If we're intentional about the atmosphere that we want to create in our home, we have to be intentional with what thoughts we're telling ourselves.So, telling yourself what to think on purpose. Here are some thoughts you might want to try on and see how they fit and start repeating these to yourself. You can journal about them. You could put them on a post-it note. You can embroider them on a pillow. Whatever works for you to start to train your brain to think differently.So: I am the perfect person to homeschool my children. I am on a journey and progressing at the perfect pace. I respond with patience, trusting that all things are working for good. I am grateful to be homeschooling my children. Good things happen every day in our home. I have control over my thoughts, feelings, and energy. I am present and focused during our homeschooling. Our days are full of beauty, laughter, and rich ideas. I will not fear because I work in cooperation with the divine teacher. Mistakes are an opportunity to learn and grow. I am becoming better each day.So, come up with your own if these don't really resonate with you. What are some truths? It might not always feel true. Do I always feel like I'm the perfect person to homeschool my children? Absolutely not. But is that true? Yes.Write those things down and start to tell yourself these stories instead. Start to change your thoughts and see if that affects the atmosphere of your home and what you are working. Work on yourself. Put on your own oxygen mask. Train your brain to start to think differently so that you can show up as your highest, most loving, most calm, most peaceful, most engaged, most curious, most playful self and see how that changes the atmosphere of your home.Tool #2: Education Is a DisciplineAll right, moving on. Charlotte Mason said, "Education is a discipline." By education as a discipline, we mean the discipline of habits definitely formed and thoughtfully, whether habits of mind or body.So the word discipline, you might think of something else, but what Charlotte Mason is referring to are the habits. We have to discipline ourselves to do things on a regular basis. The more we do something, the more neuropathways it makes in our brains and then it becomes a habit. It's not something we have to think about.The Habit of AttentionOne of the habits that's really important to foster is the habit of attention. Charlotte Mason talks about how important that is. We need to have the habit of attention so that we can be focused and really engaged on what we're learning.So this comes from her work, A Philosophy of Education: "Another misconception we have concerns attention. We think that to capture a child's attention with persuasion, dramatic presentations, pictures and visual models. But the fact is a teacher who succeeds depends on his charismatic personality is merely an actor who belongs on a stage."Okay, so this takes the pressure off you. You don't need a bunch of props, games, videos to make every lesson fun in order to gain your child's attention.We now know that attention is not one faculty of the brain and it's not a definable power of the mind. It's the ability to turn on that power and concentrate. We have that attention there. Can you turn it on when you need to? By capturing a child's attention with gimmicks, we waste our time.The ability to focus the attention is already there in the child as much as he needs. It's like a forceful river just waiting to obey the child's own authority to turn it on. Yes, it's capable of stubbornly resisting attempts to be coerced that are imposed from without.What we need to do is recognize that attention is one of the appetites and then we'll feed it with the best we have in living books and knowledge. But paying attention is something the child has to do on their own. We can't do it for them.Feeding Attention with Living BooksIt's not for us to be the fountain of all knowledge. We don't know enough. We don't speak well enough. We're too vague and random to cope with the capability of creatures who are thirsty for knowledge. Instead of pretending to be the source of their education, we must realize that books, the very best books, are the source. And we must put that resource into their hands and read them for ourselves, too.So, our children have this amazing ability to pay attention. And I'm sure you've seen this in your own kids. When they're so focused that nothing you say to them like they can't even hear you. When does that happen? When they're really engrossed in something that they care about, right?Whether that's they're playing a video game or a TV—and sadly that's really damaged our attention spans. But if your child is like making something with Legos and they're so into it, like they're so focused on it, they don't realize what else is going on in the world.And we want to capture that attention when it comes to our school lessons. But most of what we give kids is so dry and so boring that we're actually training them in the habit of not paying attention. And we want to give them the very best book, Charlotte Mason says, because that captures attention.And I'm sure you've read a really great book, right? And you're like so engrossed in the book and your kids are, "Hey, mom, are we ever like going to get to eat today?" And you're like, "What? It's 5 o'clock already?" Right? You like couldn't put the book down.That was like a living amazing story that captured your imagination, that captured your attention. And we want that for our kids. We don't need to come up with all these games and gimmicks to get their attention. If we give them really good books, they'll be like, "Oh, no, wait. Keep reading." That's what we want. That's how we foster this habit of attention.The Power of Short LessonsAll right. And then we want to build some other habits into our school day. So, a habit of attention is so key because that's going to get them to focus. Charlotte Mason also encouraged short lessons. By having short lessons, it's easier to pay attention.Do you know the average adult attention span now is less than 30 seconds? But we're expecting our children to pay attention for 45 minutes of a grammar lesson. That's so unrealistic.Charlotte Mason had short lessons. They didn't have 45-minute lessons till they were in high school. And that's very few subjects actually. And when they're young, a lesson might only take 5 to 10 minutes. By being able to focus, be interested in it, caring about it, you're able to go through school in a shorter amount of time than having these subjects drag on and on and on and on and on.Okay, so I wanted to mention short lessons as well. Okay, so let's move into some other foundational habits that you might want to consider building into your homeschool.The Habit of Outdoor TimeSo the first one is the habit of outdoor time. Charlotte Mason talks a lot about this, but we need to make it a habit. It's not just something like, oh, I hope when we have extra time, we can go do something outside. It needs to be something that is so vital.Here's what she said. This is from volume one: "It is infinitely well worth the mother's while to take some pains every day to secure in the first place that her children spend hours daily amongst rural and natural objects and in the second place to infuse into them or to rather cherish in them the love of investigation. A love of nature implanted so early that it will seem to them thereafter to have been born in them will enrich their lives with pure interests, absorbing pursuits, health, and good humor."So she says the mom has to take pains to secure outdoor time. So it might not always be easy. It might not always be pleasant. That's the thing about a habit, right? When you first starting to build a habit, like going to the gym, it's hard. The more you do it, the easier it becomes, right? You don't have to think about waking up and brushing your teeth. You just do it. It's habitual.So we want to create this pattern of loving nature, of investigating and being curious and having wonder about God's creation and being outside. And so we build that habit again over time. So at first it might be a little painful, but eventually it will build this love of nature within your children.So looking at how can you make this a habit in your day, in your week so that it's something that starts to happen naturally and it's not so hard to get outside.The Habit of RoutinesAnother habit is having routines. So in the book For the Children's Sake, which if you have not read this and you're interested at all in Charlotte Mason, this is my go-to book. You must try this one. She says routines form habits. So if you want to have good habits, you need to add routines into your homeschool day.She says, "Take the area of human relationships. Routines do not make the relationship, but they are the frame upon which we hang our experiences. Some families do not have a routine of eating meals together anymore. Anytime goes for snacking. People rush about at a thousand activities, any one of which could be good. But what is the sum total? Without the priority of a framework, nothing much happens. Few conversations, little time of togetherness."A family decides to read a book together whenever there's time. But invariably there's no time. It is essential to have these basic routines. Children love routines. It frees their attention again—this habit of attention—for the activity at hand.Later on, other routines help the child along. When planning routines, priority must be given to the most important things. The person matters. Whether it be child, husband, wife or friend, we all need time to talk, read, relax and work together. Our relationship with God matters. Where is the time to be found for that? I am a part of his creation. Where will I have time to get out and enjoy nature? Again, that other habit of being outside.There is too much work to be done and I am finite. I need to accept that reality and plan the time and priorities carefully.So, when you are planning out your school year, think about what are the priorities for you. Do you want to build in these habits of being outside, of reading together, of spending time in God's word? Make it a routine. The more you do something, the stronger that habit will become and the easier it will be to make that happen.So, as you're planning out your school day, what are the routines that can make these habits form more easily into your day? And you're not always having to make a million decisions all day about do we do this next, do we do that, do we decide to go here, do we do this? By having these routines, it eliminates a lot of that decision fatigue, which will be so helpful.The Habit of SolitudeAnd the next one is the habit of solitude, which might be something you have not thought of. And I think it's really interesting. I'm going to have to put my glasses on here because I have this quote on my phone and it's really hard to read. Bear with me one second here.All right. "For the right use of programs"—at Charlotte Mason's programs—"two things are necessary: solitude and independence." Okay. For the right use of the programs, two things are necessary: solitude and independence. Children must have these.Nursery children come off fairly well in these respects. They get time where they can wander and dream alone in the garden. But this happy state ends where schoolroom life begins. Lessons, walk, and lessons again. Always in company, always having something that must be done now.Miss Mason devises the timetables—that's those short lessons I was talking about—which cover such reasonable hours as to leave time over for the solitude. But parents are often very culpable in thinking that tango—isn't that so funny—or some other new thing must be learned as well. The much needed time for solitude is used for plans which necessitate hurried journeys always in the company of a responsible person who feels it's her duty to talk in an instructive way.And the thinking time, the growing time, the time in which the mind is to find food is diminished and the child becomes restless, tiresome, irritable, disobedient. Everything that a child who is reputed to be difficult can be. The parents marvel and say, "But we are giving him the best education that can be procured. We are neglecting no opportunities."Kind, generous parents, you are giving your child every opportunity but one, and that is self-development. By your generous care, you are safeguarding him from ever using his own mind, ever relying upon himself in any way.The child who at first found interference irksome later depends on it so much that he is unable to work without the constant prodding of a mentor. I believe that this is the prime reason of the oft repeated lament of teachers and professors: Little ones are so eager. Older children are less keen. Adults are dull.Wow. If you want to feed your child's mind, you have to build in times of solitude into your day. Time when your children are alone with their imaginations, when you're not hurried from one thing to the next.And there's so many amazing opportunities now for homeschoolers that weren't around when I started. But it can be so easy to pack our day where we're constantly on these hurried journeys. And our children don't have time to think, to be alone with our own thoughts, and to allow these ideas start to form and take root in their mind and to develop their imagination.So, make sure you're leaving time for the habit of solitude in your day.Questions to Consider About HabitsSo, here are some questions to consider when it comes to building good habits into your homeschool: How am I fostering good habits in my own life? So, we have to start with ourselves. If we're not building good habits in our own life, we are not going to be good models for our children on how to stay consistent with something, how to will ourselves to do something that we actually don't really want to do. We need to model that first for our kids.Does my homeschool routine make good habits easy? Again, routines are going to be the tracks that these habits are going to go on and that's going to make everything so much easier in your day.And what's one habit that would bring more ease to our homeschool day? What's one thing you could start maybe even this summer that could be a habit that gets built that's going to make things easier come fall?Tool #3: Education Is a LifeAnd then the last one is education is a life. In saying that education is the life, the need of intellectual and moral as well as a physical sustenance is applied. The mind feeds on ideas. Therefore, children should have a generous curriculum.Education is a life. It is living. We want to give our kids a life-giving education. We're not just feeding their mind, but we're feeding their whole personhood, their physical body, their moral body, them as spiritual beings, right?What Does the Mind Need to Grow?But what does the mind actually need to grow? Are we feeding it the proper food? Charlotte Mason would say a mind can only be fed upon ideas. We can stuff a bunch of information in there, she says, but it's like sawdust in the cogs of a machine.We're just filling our children with a bunch of information. They might look really stuffed and like they know a whole lot, but there's no depth to what they're actually learning. Only ideas can take root and be the proper food that your child's mind needs.So what is what do we mean by that? What's an idea? So she says an idea is more than an image or a picture. It is so to speak a spiritual germ, a little seed endowed with vital force and with power that is to grow and produce after its kind.It's the very nature of an idea to grow. As the vegetable germ secretes that it lives by so fairly implant an idea in the child's mind and it will secrete its own food and it will grow and it will bear fruit and it will inform a succession of like ideas.Charlotte Mason calls this the science of relations. These little ideas that come into our children's mind through the books that we're reading, through the art that we're looking at, through the music, through the being out and investigating out in nature. These little seeds when they have time for solitude to grow, they will grow on their own and they will connect to other ideas.We don't have to put all the connections and make a cute little unit study where everything all goes together for our kids. Their brains are naturally going to make these connections as these ideas are growing. Those synapses are going to start connecting. And it's such a beautiful thing to watch because this is their own brain doing the hard work of digesting all this mind food that we're going to give them.Where Do Ideas Come From?So the proper nourishment of ideas, what does this mean? What does this actually look like? What are we putting in here on a regular basis?So first of all, ideas come from stories or books that are written in a narrative fashion. So even high school chemistry, believe it or not, even high school physics can be written in a narrative fashion where there's an idea, there's something that captures your imagination. It's not just a bunch of facts.She says, "I think we owe it to our children to let them dig their knowledge of whatever subjects for themselves out of the book. What a child digs is his own possession."So, as a teacher, we're not having to learn all the information. We're not the fountain head of all knowledge. We're not having to digest all the material and put it together and then teach it to our kids. We are putting them in touch with real books where the authors are passionate about the subject and those books are the ones that are teaching our children. They're the ones that are feeding their minds with all these amazing ideas.We also—and this is like a common misconception with Charlotte Mason is oh you just read books all day. No, children are also doing things with their hands and ideas can come from these things as well. They have these natural objects. They're outside. They're out in nature. They're investigating. They're exploring. They're learning these gross motor skills. They're working with handicrafts, with wood and leather and clay.They have natural objects. They're seeing the birds and the plants and the trees and these things that are outside. They're observing. They're understanding cause and effect and making conclusions about the way the world works. They're looking at art and using science things. All of these grow ideas in a child's mind. So it's not just books but books and things.Cultivate Your Own MindAnd then you need to cultivate your own mind. If you want to be pouring ideas into your children, you need ideas coming into your own mind. She says we need not say one word about the necessity for living thought in the teacher. It is only so far as he is intellectually alive that he can be effective in the wonderful process which we glibly call education.I love this. Only so far as he is intellectually alive. So you need to make habits of feeding your own mind with these ideas through books or things or trying new things, learning new skills or habits so that you are growing your own mind and then you can pour that forth into your children. That's what makes you a living, growing human and that will inspire them as well to follow this kind of lifelong educational path.The Danger of Education Without IdeasCharlotte Mason said it is possible to pass even the university's local examinations with credit without ever having experienced that vital stir which marks the inception of an idea. And if we have succeeded in escaping this disturbing influence while we have finished our education, when we leave school, we shut up our books and our minds and remain pygmies in the dark forest of our own dim world of thought and feeling.You can check off all the boxes and pass the tests and never have an idea that changes and shapes you as a person. And that is such a scary thought and such a grave defect of our modern industrialized educational system.Charlotte Mason is advocating for something extremely different. By having the atmosphere be one that fosters connection and creativity and curiosity, by having routines and habits that make learning possible, by having living ideas coming through books and things, your children will constantly have these seeds of ideas planted into their minds that will grow and shape them as full people who, as Charlotte Mason uses this word I love so much, become magnanimous citizens.She says, "How large is the room upon which their feet are set?" And you get to have the amazing opportunity to use those three tools of a Charlotte Mason education to provide your child with an amazingly large room full of beautiful, rich, good, and true ideas.Get Started with These ToolsIf you want to get started using these tools and you're like, I have no idea how to even start. And you want to bring some truth, goodness, and beauty into your homeschool day, I have a free morning time packet. All you have to do is scan that QR code. It's called Times of Togetherness. And there's some other fun activities in there as well to help your family develop the habit and the culture of coming together and looking at scripture, listening to hymns, looking at beautiful art and poetry to grow that goodness in your hearts and minds and to fill yourself with these living ideas.So if you want to grab that, you can grab that there. I would also love to connect with you. My curriculum, A Gentle Feast, can be found at gentlefeast.com. I also have a podcast where I encourage modern homeschool moms to create a life and homeschool they love. It's called The Feast Life. You can find it in all the podcast platforms.And then we also have a free Facebook group if you'd like to join. Just learn some more about this philosophy, connect with other like-minded moms. It's a really great, wonderful group of moms in that Facebook community called The Feast Life Community. Just search for them on Facebook and you will find us.So, thank you so much for listening. I hope this is helpful. I hope you'll be able to look at your homeschool for next school year and say, "What kind of atmosphere am I creating? How can I use this tool of habits to make our days smoother and easier? And then what living ideas are coming forth from what I'm choosing to use in our homeschool? And am I feeding my children with the kind of rich ideas that their minds actually need to grow upon?" So, thank you so much for listening. I really appreciate it.

What if one of the biggest homeschooling wins isn't curriculum… but protecting your kids from modern pressures and modern “food”?In this episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, Cheryl sits down with Patrick & Ashley—homeschool-connected entrepreneurs and the team behind Jigsaw Health—to talk about:Patrick's experience being homeschooled in 7th–9th grade (and why it mattered)The myth of “socialization” vs. what homeschool kids actually gainWhy food choices have become a parenting issue (and a homeschooling advantage)Their documentary Breaking Big Food: How the American Food System Went Rotten and How It's Being RevivedPractical, realistic “one step at a time” swaps (without turning your life upside down)Why “pay the farmer now or pharma later” keeps showing up in this conversationYou'll also hear how families are building local alternatives—farmers markets, seed-oil-free restaurants, community markets—and how you can start making changes without getting overwhelmed.

In this final episode of 2025, I'm looking back on the highs and lows of our homeschool year and the lessons I learned along the way. I'm also sharing a look ahead to 2026, with some exciting things happening for my family and for Homeschool Our Way! ➡️ Ready to Start (or Reset) Your Homeschool with Support in 2026? Enrollment for the next Homeschool Launch Blueprint cohort opens soon! Join the waitlist here: https://www.homeschoolourway.com/blueprint-collective ➡️ Check out the new Homeschool Our Way channel on YouTube! ******************* ✨Learn more about Homeschool Our Way: What We Do | Connect on Instagram

Join us - https://simplyconvivial.com/coaching | Perfectionism blinds us to the beauty already in front of us. In this episode, I talk with Rachel Wendel, a wife and mom of four who discovered how small touches of beauty—and a massive mindset shift—changed her homemaking from burdensome to joyful.Rachel shares:Why perfectionism kept her from starting anythingHow tiny, inexpensive beauty touches lifted the whole mood of her homeWhat happened when she let her kids participate in creating beautyHow conversations with her husband shifted her entire vision for their homeWhy she had to repent of wanting a “picture-perfect” house instead of a family homeThe heart-level issue behind why adding beauty felt overwhelmingHer story is a powerful reminder: you don't need a perfect house to make it beautiful. You need attention, iteration, and a willingness to let real life—not Pinterest—shape your home.

SPONSORS: 1) MOOD: Discover your perfect mood and get 20% off your first order at http://mood.com and use code JULIAN at checkout! (***TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ Mark Gagnon is the co-host of Flagrant w/ Andrew Schulz & is also hosts his own show, Camp Gagnon. MARK's LINKS - Camp Gagnon YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_8fyOXzrZjcnUBFbhbms7Q - Flagrant YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialFlagrant/videos FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY INSTAGRAM (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/juliandoreypodcast/ INSTAGRAM (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://twitter.com/julianddorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 00:00 – Inglorious Basterds, Epstein Texts, Building 7 Mom, MK Ultra? 11:45 – Homeschool, RFK Affair, JFK Stories, Mom's Intel Pulse 21:42 – Tucker 9/11, HW Bush Letters, Santa Conspiracy, Zohran Drama, Trump Thoughts 31:50 – Trump Attempt, Zohran Politics, NYC Issues, Sharia Joke, Sliwa 41:40 – Guardian Angels, Rat Dogs, Disney Gator, Disney+, Epstein Lives? 00:50:50 – X Location Feature, India vs Tyler Oliveira, Culture Clash 01:00:42 – Crowley, Occultism, OTO, Pey0te, s3x magick 01:09:39 – Crowley Motives, LAM, Foreign Agent Theory, Jack Parsons, Cayce, Atlantis 01:19:35 – Russia Peace Keys, Nazi Occult Thor Hammer Belief, Hess Mission, Mystics 01:28:47 – Remote Viewing, Crucifixion Theory, Jesus Switched? 01:40:16 – Culture & Religion, Idi Amin, COVID Break, Contrarianism, Social Media 01:49:42 – Overton Window, Horseshoe Theory, Trump & Zohran Reaction 01:59:07 – Harvey Dent, Good Faith, Mask Eats Face, Freemasons 02:07:37 – Maxwell Hill, Ghislaine Theory, Epstein Network, No Clean Hands 02:15:46 – Global Power, Mom Right Again, Freemason History, Albert Pike 02:28:37 – Mason Factions, Catholics vs Masons, Templars, Camp Gagnon Future 02:38:56 – Mark's Work OTHER JDP EPISODES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: - Episode 242 - Tommy G: https://youtu.be/RSi-X6cCEaw - Episode 306 - Tommy G & Punchmade Dev: https://youtu.be/bob6rNAMmIg - Episode 337 - RocaNews: https://youtu.be/8BjTaxsgwBM CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef - https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 366 - Mark Gagnon Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us: https://simplyconvivial.com/coaching - When nothing about your life changes—but everything still feels overwhelming—the problem usually isn't your schedule. It's your attitude.In this episode, I talk with Melissa Wood, a homeschooling mom of four living in Australia, about how Simplified Organization Community Coaching helped her move from chronic overwhelm and migraines to peace, clarity, and confidence—without changing her circumstances.Melissa shares:Why her life looked easy on paper but felt unbearably hardHow brain dumping and weekly review changed her mental loadWhy adding small touches of beauty actually improved her attitudeHow mindset work made it possible to handle a suddenly very busy lifeWhat happened when she stopped pushing through and started reflectingIf you feel worn down, resentful, or constantly overwhelmed—even though you “should” be fine—this conversation will help you see a better way forward.

Do homeschoolers really need tests and grades to prove learning is happening? In this episode, we unpack why so many parents feel pressured to measure progress the “school way,” even when it might not align with how their kids actually learn. We talk honestly about the limited role testing can play, the very real downsides of over-relying on data, and the many meaningful ways growth shows up in everyday life. Whether you're fully anti-testing, required to participate because of a charter or state rules, or just trying to unlearn old school conditioning, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and permission to trust what you see unfolding in your own home.Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live support meetings, socials, and even a book club.  Join here: ⁠https://bit.ly/3X5R0gI⁠  Use code HMU90 for 90% of your first month!  Jumpstart your homeschooling with our online courses:Homeschool 101: The No-Panic Boot Camp - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/nopanichomeschool⁠ And, purchase the workbook here:  https://a.co/d/fehPA6G The Smart Start Guide to Homeschool Curriculum - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/curriculumnbundle⁠ Preschool and Kindergarten, Reimagine: A Complete Guide for Homeschooling Littles  - ⁠https://courses.homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/earlyed101⁠  Find Meagan's book - 101 Comebacks to Homeschool Objections: Polite replies, powerful comebacks, and everything in between. - here: https://a.co/d/iTRH14Y Explore Outschool!  Use code BUDGET50 to save 50% off your first three months of membership.https://outschool.com/ Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.⁠https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Every month we release a themed unit study that is secular and progressive.  We focus on own-voice sources and inclusive learning opportunities.  ⁠https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/homeschool-moms-unfiltered⁠ Visit our website here:  ⁠https://homeschoolmomsunfiltered.com/⁠ Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/⁠ TT: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc⁠ FB: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠ Love Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered⁠

Managing homeschool with a toddler underfoot can feel like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. In this updated episode, we go beyond the basics and share evolved strategies for families trying to keep older kids learning while younger siblings demand attention. We'll talk about realistic routines, age-appropriate independence, managing guilt, and how to keep everyone (mostly) sane. Whether your little one is climbing counters or just ditching naps, we've got fresh ideas for making it work. Find Secular Curriculum with our Resource Selector https://www.homeschool-together.com/secular-resources Support The Podcast If you like what you hear, consider supporting the podcast: https://homeschooltogether.gumroad.com/l/support Consider Leaving Us A Review If you have a quick moment, please consider leaving a review on iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-together-podcast/id1526685583 Show Notes Homeschool Burnout - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/89 How We Manage The Younger Sibling - https://homeschooltogether.fireside.fm/52 Connect with us Website: http://www.homeschool-together.com/ Store: https://gumroad.com/homeschooltogether Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/homeschooltogether Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltogetherpodcast/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschooltogetherpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/hs_together The Gameschool Co-Op: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gameschoolcoop/ Email: homeschooltogetherpodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textA single bold ask can change a racing life. That's what happened when a six-year-old named Everett walked up to Food City's CEO and asked for a sponsorship—an audacious moment that launched a genuine grassroots journey, powered by family, faith, and a love for speed. We sit down with Amy Larson, proud “momager” and homeschool parent from Virginia, to unpack what it really takes to raise a young driver who competes with adults on dirt and keeps his head in the toughest moments.Amy pulls back the curtain on their playbook: choosing karting over other sports, prioritizing track time to keep skills sharp, and treating the whole effort like a college fund paid in hours, reps, and relationships. She shares how Everett built sponsor trust early, why clean conduct and strong social media matter as much as pace, and how mentors like Corey LaJoie stepped in with shoes, a simulator, and priceless guidance. We talk safety, the transition from pavement to dirt, and the quiet discipline behind long Saturdays, late features, and early Sunday mornings at church.You'll hear practical advice for new racing parents—start within your means, avoid debt chasing fancy gear, and teach your driver to own the process. We spotlight the community that makes grassroots racing special: friends in neighboring pits, pros who open doors, and fans who become family. Whether the future leads to NASCAR, rally, or more dirt, the Larsons' story proves that character, consistency, and connection can carry a young racer farther than any single win.If this resonated, tap follow, share it with a racing parent who needs a lift, and leave a quick review so more motorsports families can find us. Your support helps keep these stories on the grid.Support the showFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/womensmotorsportsnetworkandpodcast INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/womensmotorsportsnetwork/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindarussell/ TIKTOK: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindarussell/ https://www.patreon.com/posts/womens-network-144773298 X: https://x.com/IWMANation FACEBOOK Personal Page: https://www.facebook.com/melinda.ann.russell

What if the habits your child builds in middle school could shape their entire future?In this episode of the MindBodySpace Podcast, Dr. Juna reconnects with Noelle Naito—now a Juilliard-trained violinist and marathon runner—who began her brain training journey as a homeschooled middle schooler. With just a few simple tools like daily logging, mindfulness, movement, and mental training techniques like cognitive reappraisal, Noelle learned how to manage stress, build focus, and become the boss of her own brain.Together, they reflect on how small changes led to major transformation, from running one block at a time to crossing a marathon finish line—and how any young person can learn these same tools to set them up for lifelong resilience!Whether you're a parent, educator, or high-achiever yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired, grounded, and ready to build the kind of brain that thrives—on stage and in life.Brain Boss is the MindBodySpace program designed especially for tweens to build these exact skills—using neuroscience, visualization, and habit-building to create real, lasting confidence.

Join Community Coaching in 2026! https://simplyconvivial.com/coaching || Starting over feels productive, but it quietly keeps moms stuck. In this episode, I talk with longtime Convivial Circle member Laney Homan—wife of 29 years, mom of eight, and soon-to-be grandma—about how she finally stopped throwing out her systems every time life went sideways and started iterating instead.Laney shares how:    She moved from “fix my whole life with a new plan” to making small, realistic tweaks.    Weekly reviews help her juggle homeschooling, work, and training for half marathons.    She handles short-term disruptions (like giant laundry weeks and clothing swaps) without declaring her whole routine “broken.”    She uses simple tools—weekly review, daily card, interval planning—to think clearly and respond wisely when life piles on.If you're tempted to scrap everything and start from scratch every time your plans blow up, Lainey's story will give you a saner, more sustainable way forward.

Today I want to encourage you with something simple and powerful: you absolutely can homeschool your special needs child. And not only can you—you may be the very best person to do it.So let's walk through some of the reasons why homeschooling isn't just an option - it might be the most empowering, flexible, life-giving path for your family.Show notes are at https://www.4onemore.com/338

As the leaves turn and the days shorten, there's a distinct shift in the air – it's the cozy season, a time for warmth, reflection, and connection. This season, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations about embracing the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) in our homeschooling journey. Hygge is all about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. It's the warmth of morning light streaming through the window, the comfort of a hot cup of cocoa, the joy of a shared story.In this replayed episode, we delve into how hygge can transform the homeschooling experience. As the season changes, so does the rhythm of our homes and our approach to education. It's a time to slow down, to savor, and to connect more deeply with our children through learning and play.Resources:Hero Kids: https://www.heroforgegames.com/hero-kids/Amazing Tales: https://amazing-tales.net/Expedition (free pdf): https://expeditiongame.com/print-and-playYour Very Own Village (free pdf): https://www.onwardheroes.com/yourveryownvillageMouseGuard RPG: https://www.mouse-guard.net/rpgEnglish Tea Store: englishteastore.comFind books mentioned in this episode in the Brave Writer Book ShopBrave Writer class registration is open! Visit Julie's Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!) Purchase Julie's new book, Help! My Kid Hates WritingFind community at the Brave Learner HomeLearn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programsStart a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that's sure to grab and keep your child's attentionSubscribe to Julie's Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa's Catalog of EnthusiasmsSign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Connect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads:

We all intend to be great at this mother-in-law thing, but it tends to be a bit of an ugly mess as we learn a whole new parenting role. Resources mentioned: Podcast 185 - The Black Wedding Dress Podcast 80 - Mistakes We Made Parenting Our College Student Who Lived at Home Podcast 102 - Homeschool to College Podcast 161 - Mothering Sons into Adulthood Podcast 163 - Spending Time with Your Teens More Than Grand website

Get homemaking coaching in 2026: https://simplyconvivial.com/coaching || Perfectionism keeps moms stuck in a boom-and-bust cycle. Lauren, a NICU nurse working night shifts while raising three young girls and beginning her homeschool journey, shares how this year inside Convivial Circle changed the way she approaches home, work, and rest.This is her first year in Simplified Organization Community Coaching, and her story is a clear picture of what iterative, grace-filled growth looks like in real life. She talks about letting go of perfect plans, learning to review her week honestly, coordinating with her husband, adjusting expectations, and taking her homemaking one small step at a time.Do coaching in 2026: https://simplyconvivial.com/coachingHer experience shows that overwhelm doesn't have to lead to giving up. When you learn how to iterate, evaluate, and make simple changes, progress becomes possible even in busy seasons.If you want to stop cycling through fresh starts and burnout, this conversation will help you see a sustainable path forward.Mystie Winckler encourages moms to organize their attitudes and get traction at home so we are no longer overwhelmed or frustrated with homemaking. We are a community of Christian women striving to be competent, cheerful homemakers so we are fruitful, faithful, and hospitable. Subscribe for regular encouragement!

You'll get to hear how I experienced this Bias myself just a few months ago! Want to test yourself on how well you can recognize fallacies in real life? Take the Meme Fallacy Quiz! www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/quiz Learn more about Crazy Thinkers membership where you can practice critical thinking using real-life memes, articles & headlines: www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/crazy Here's how you can purchase the Logical Fallacies ebook: https://www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/offers/z6xbAcB2 Send me any questions, comments or even the fallacies you're seeing around you! think@filteritthroughabraincell.com Or, tag me on Instagram: @filteritthroughabraincell Sign up on my email list at: www.filteritthroughabraincell.com/contact Learn more about Classical Conversations: www.classicalconversations.com/filterit Thank you to our sponsor, CTC Math! Website: https://www.ctcmath.com/?tr_id=brain Homeschool page: https://www.ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school?tr_id=brain Free trail: https://www.ctcmath.com/trial?tr_id=brain Special offer! Get 1/2-off discounts plus bonus 6-months free! Critical Thinking for Teens Logical Fallacies for Teens Cognitive Biases for Teens Homeschool Logic Critical thinking for Middle schoolers

Your novel study can do more than build reading skills. It can become the heart of a rich, immersive homeschool unit. In this follow-up episode, we explore how to integrate history, science, writing, art, and even math into your novel studies. With creative examples and flexible approaches, we'll show you how to turn a single story into a multidisciplinary learning adventure. Find Secular Curriculum with our Resource Selector https://www.homeschool-together.com/secular-resources Support The Podcast If you like what you hear, consider supporting the podcast: https://homeschooltogether.gumroad.com/l/support Consider Leaving Us A Review If you have a quick moment, please consider leaving a review on iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeschool-together-podcast/id1526685583 Show Notes Wevideo - https://www.wevideo.com/ Canva - https://www.canva.com/ Connect with us Website: http://www.homeschool-together.com/ Store: https://gumroad.com/homeschooltogether Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/homeschooltogether Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltogetherpodcast/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschooltogetherpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/hs_together The Gameschool Co-Op: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gameschoolcoop/ Email: homeschooltogetherpodcast@gmail.com

Life doesn't sit still, and neither does homemaking. In this conversation with Convivial Circle member Meghan Jackson, we look at what it really takes to stay steady when the year throws every kind of setback your way—kitchen remodels, family illness, extra workload, disrupted routines, and the emotional toll that comes with all of it.Meghan shares how she kept showing up, even when her plans fell apart. Her story is a picture of what community coaching is actually for: not perfection, but resilience. Not sticking the landing every time, but learning to return to the work with strength, clarity, and a cheerful, trusting heart.We talk about weekly reviews, alignment cards, habit statements, delegation, home education, staying grounded in Scripture, and letting the Lord define the next right step—even when the next step is simply praying for strength.If you want support for a year that won't go according to plan (because they never do), community coaching gives you structure, accountability, and a Christ-centered approach to homemaking.convivialcircle.com

Isaiah 7:13-14 and 9:6-7  Welcome to our very first Christmas episode of 2025! Whether you're a long-time listener or brand-new, we're so glad you're here. Today we begin Advent, a special four-week season where Christians prepare their hearts to celebrate Jesus' birth and look forward to His promised return. We'll explore what “Advent” means, why it's important, and how this season invites us to slow down, reflect, and wait with hope. We'll also hear an incredible true story from 1947—when a young shepherd boy discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls, some of the oldest copies of the Bible ever found. Among them was the Book of Isaiah, matching what we read today almost word for word. This amazing discovery reminds us that God's Word has been faithfully preserved for thousands of years and that we can trust His promises. Through Isaiah's ancient prophecies, we'll see how God foretold the coming of Jesus long before He was born—and how Advent helps us celebrate that promise fulfilled. Perfect For: Kids ages 4–12 Family listening Advent devotions Homeschool or classroom Bible time Sunday school preparation