Homeschool Teaching Checklist: How to Improve Your School Year Without Starting Over

In this encouraging episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, Felice Gerwitz walks through practical teaching tips, homeschool methods, and a flexible checklist to help moms create a more effective and enjoyable homeschool year.

Listen to the episode here: 

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Homeschooling can feel overwhelming—even when you’re doing a lot right.

You may have the curriculum. You may have a routine. And you may even have a plan. But sometimes, a few weeks or months into the school year, you start asking yourself:

• Is this working?
• Are my kids actually learning?
• Do I need to change something?
• How do I make homeschool feel less stressful and more effective?

The good news? You do not need to scrap your school year and start from scratch.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause and use a simple homeschool teaching checklist to evaluate what’s working, what’s not, and what small changes can make your homeschool stronger, calmer, and more effective.

Handout: 49-VHM_TeachingCheckList

More Homeschool Help You May Enjoy

• Time to Learn: How to Stay Consistent in Your Homeschool

• Best Homeschool Planning Tips (Replay)

• Fine-Tune Your Homeschool Day: Small Tweaks for a Smoother Routine

• What to Do When Homeschool Isn’t Working

• Homeschooling 101 Pre-K to Kindergarten

What Is a Homeschool Teaching Checklist?

A homeschool teaching checklist is a simple way to step back and look at the big picture of your homeschool year.

It helps you answer questions like:

• Are we covering the basics?
• Is my child learning in a way that actually works for them?
• Do we need more structure—or less?
• Have I made room for fun, creativity, and real-life learning?
• Are we building a homeschool that fits our family?

A good homeschool checklist isn’t about perfection. It’s about intentional progress.

And honestly? Sometimes just taking time to evaluate your homeschool can bring a huge sense of relief.

Why Evaluating Your Homeschool Year Matters

Many homeschool moms wait until the end of the year to reflect. But the best time to make improvements is while you’re still in it.

You don’t have to wait until summer.

You can stop right now and ask:

• What is going well?
• Where are we frustrated?
• What feels heavy or forced?
• What’s missing?

Felice shares that even in the middle of a school year, it’s worth taking time to reassess your approach and make changes that support your child’s learning style and your family’s season of life.

That means if you’ve had:

• a new baby,
• schedule changes,
• burnout,
• curriculum frustration,
• or just a rough start…

…it is not too late to make homeschool better.

The Truth Most Homeschool Moms Need to Hear

You are not failing because your homeschool doesn’t look like someone else’s.

That might be one of the most important reminders in this episode.

It’s easy to compare your homeschool to:

• the mom in co-op,
• the beautifully organized Instagram homeschool room,
• the family who seems to do every field trip, project, and unit study,
• or the friend who somehow makes sourdough, teaches Latin, and has matching baskets.

But your homeschool does not need to look like theirs.

Your homeschool needs to work for your children, your energy, your schedule, and your goals.

That is what makes a homeschool sustainable.

The Ultimate Homeschool Teaching Checklist

Use this checklist as a quick homeschool reset. You can print it, save it, or walk through it one section at a time.

1. Do You Have a Family Mission or Purpose?

This doesn’t have to be formal or fancy.

But it helps to know:
What are we trying to build here?

Ask yourself:

• What kind of family culture do we want?
• What do we want our children to gain from homeschooling?
• What matters most in this season?

A family mission helps shape your homeschool decisions so you’re not constantly chasing someone else’s priorities.

2. Do You Have Clear Goals for the School Year?

Not just “finish the curriculum.”

Think bigger.

Ask:

• What do I want each child to grow in this year?
• What subjects need the most attention?
• What would make this year feel successful?

Goals might include:

• stronger reading habits,
• finishing a specific subject,
• building independence,
• improving writing,
• creating more peace in your routine,
• or helping a child discover what they love.

General goals help keep your homeschool focused.

3. Are You Setting Character and Spiritual Goals Too?

Academics matter. But they are not the whole picture.

Some of the most important things your children learn at home are:

• responsibility,
• perseverance,
• kindness,
• patience,
• self-control,
• and faith.

Felice makes a strong point here:
The best way to teach character is not through a workbook—it’s through your example.

That one stings a little… but it’s true.

If character is a goal, ask:

• What are we modeling in our home?
• What habits are we reinforcing?
• What kind of atmosphere are we creating?

Felice has created the Character Planners to help homeschool moms build character in their children.

4. Are You Covering the Core Subjects?

If you’re overwhelmed, come back to the basics.

Core homeschool subjects often include:

• Reading
• Writing
• Math
• Science
• History
• Literature

You don’t have to do every extra right now.

Sometimes the best homeschool move is to simplify and ask:
Are we consistently doing the essentials?

Because if the answer is yes, you may already be doing better than you think.

5. Are You Using the Right Teaching Method for Your Child?

This is where many homeschool struggles begin.

Sometimes the issue is not the curriculum.
Sometimes the issue is how the material is being taught.

That’s a huge takeaway from this episode.

Felice shares how one of her children struggled with traditional workbook-style math—but learned much better through movement, hands-on activities, and real-life interaction.

That means your child may thrive more with:

• hands-on learning,
• discussion-based learning,
• notebooking,
• unit studies,
• copywork,
• visual learning,
• project-based learning,
• or a more flexible, interest-led approach.

Ask:

• Is this child resisting because they’re lazy…
• or because the method isn’t connecting?

That question can change everything.

Best Homeschool Teaching Methods to Try

If you need a reset, here are several homeschool-friendly teaching methods to explore:

Reading and Discussion

Read aloud and talk through ideas together.

Best for:

• literature,
• history,
• worldview,
• Bible,
• and younger learners.

Copywork

Have your child copy a well-written passage to practice:

• handwriting,
• grammar,
• spelling,
• punctuation,
• and sentence structure.

Unit Studies

Choose a topic and connect multiple subjects to it.

Example:
A medieval history unit could include:

• history,
• literature,
• map work,
• art,
• writing,
• and projects.

Notebooking

Instead of worksheets, children create a notebook of what they’ve learned.

This works especially well for:

• science,
• history,
• biographies,
• and nature study.

Hands-On Learning

This can include:

• experiments,
• building projects,
• movement-based learning,
• games,
• crafts,
• cooking,
• or manipulatives.

Hands-on learning often helps struggling learners stay engaged and remember more.

Eclectic Homeschooling

This means using a mix of methods and resources instead of locking into one approach.

For many families, this is the most realistic and effective long-term option.

6. Is Your Homeschool Engaging and Enjoyable?

This is a big one.

Felice talks about the importance of making room for fun learning, especially when children need motivation.

That doesn’t mean every day has to be Pinterest-worthy.

It does mean asking:

• Is there joy in our learning?
• Are my kids excited about anything we’re doing?
• Have I planned anything memorable this month?

Sometimes homeschool gets heavy because it becomes all output and no delight.

Easy ways to add engagement:

• themed project days,
• read-aloud afternoons,
• hands-on history activities,
• notebook pages,
• simple science experiments,
• cooking related to your studies,
• educational games,
• documentaries,
• nature walks,
• art tied to a topic.

Often, one small fun element can shift the whole mood of your homeschool.

7. Do You Have a Routine or Schedule That Actually Fits Your Family?

Not every homeschool needs a strict hour-by-hour schedule.

But most families do better with some kind of rhythm.

That might look like:

A Schedule:

A more structured start and end time for subjects.

A Routine:

A predictable flow to the day without exact time blocks.

Many homeschool moms thrive when they stop trying to force a school system structure and instead build a family-centered rhythm.

Ask:

• Do we need more structure?
• Or do we need less pressure?

Sometimes the answer is not “be more disciplined.”
Sometimes it’s “stop trying to homeschool like a classroom.”

8. Are You Giving Enough One-on-One Attention Where It’s Needed?

If you have multiple children, this can feel impossible.

But one-on-one time matters—especially for:

• struggling learners,
• children who are easily distracted,
• kids with confidence issues,
• or children who simply need connection.

You may not be able to do this for hours.

But even a focused 10–15 minutes can make a difference.

Ask:

• Which child needs more direct support right now?
• Where am I seeing frustration or discouragement?
• What would help this child feel successful?

Small moments of focused teaching often go further than we think.

9. Do You Build in Catch-Up Time?

This is one of the smartest homeschool strategies in the whole episode.

Felice recommends having a built-in catch-up day each week—often Friday—where students can:

• finish assignments,
• complete projects,
• take tests,
• write papers,
• or wrap up anything left unfinished.

This is such a simple but powerful homeschool fix.

Because homeschool rarely goes exactly as planned.

A catch-up day gives your week breathing room and keeps one bad day from throwing off everything else.

10. Are You Making Room for Real Life Skills?

Homeschool is about more than academics.

Ask yourself:

• Are my children learning responsibility?
• Do they help around the house?
• Are they building life skills?
• Do they know how to contribute to the family?

That may look like:

• daily chores,
• weekly responsibilities,
• meal prep,
• budgeting,
• time management,
• organization,
• or helping younger siblings.

These are not distractions from education.
These are part of education.

11. Have You Planned Anything to Look Forward To?

Sometimes homeschool feels stale simply because there’s nothing exciting on the horizon.

Add simple anchor points like:

• a field trip,
• a history day,
• a science project,
• a family presentation night,
• a read-aloud celebration,
• a museum visit,
• or a themed lunch tied to what you’re studying.

These moments create memory and momentum.

And honestly? They help moms too.

12. Are You Taking Care of Yourself Too?

This may be the most overlooked part of homeschool success.

Because when mom is depleted, everything feels harder.

Felice encourages moms to build in even small self care moments to:

• regroup,
• pray,
• breathe,
• journal,
• think,
• or simply sit down for a minute.

It doesn’t have to be a spa day.

It may be:

• waking up 15 minutes earlier,
• taking a quiet lunch break,
• sitting outside for five minutes,
• or reading your Bible before the house gets loud.

You do not need a perfect self-care routine.
You just need enough margin to stay steady.

How to Know If Your Homeschool Is Actually Working

Here’s a simple truth:

If your children are learning, growing, being loved, and living in a home where truth, curiosity, and consistency matter…

your homeschool is working.

Not perfectly.
But meaningfully.

And that matters more than checking every box.

Ask yourself:

• Are my children making progress?
• Are they curious?
• Are they developing skills?
• Are they growing in character?
• Are we moving forward?

If yes, keep going.

You can improve without tearing it all down.

Quick Homeschool Reset: Start Here

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t redo everything.

Just start with these 5 simple steps:

1. Pick one area that feels frustrating.

2. Ask what’s not working: the content, the method, or the routine?

3. Choose one small change to make this week.

4. Add one thing your kids can look forward to.

5. Give yourself permission to homeschool imperfectly.

That’s enough to begin.

Final Encouragement for Homeschool Moms

You do not need a perfect plan.

You need a homeschool that is:

• thoughtful,
• flexible,
• intentional,
• and rooted in what your family actually needs.

That’s what makes homeschool powerful.

And if you need to pause, reevaluate, and make changes?
That doesn’t mean you’re behind.

It means you’re paying attention.

And that’s a very good thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a homeschool teaching checklist?

A homeschool teaching checklist is a tool that helps parents evaluate their school year, track goals, and ensure they are covering key subjects and learning experiences.

How do I know if my homeschool is working?

Look at your child’s engagement, progress, and overall experience. If learning is happening and your child is growing, your homeschool is working—even if it doesn’t look perfect.

What are the most important homeschool subjects?

Core subjects typically include reading, writing, math, science, and history, but each family can customize based on their goals.

How can I make homeschooling more engaging?

Incorporate hands-on learning, projects, real-life applications, and allow children to explore their interests.

The post How to Evaluate Your Homeschool Year (With a Simple Teaching Checklist) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Teaching Kids Problem Solving Skills: A Fun Homeschool Life Skill

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Want to teach your kids how to think before they act?

Problem solving is one of the most important life skills children can learn—and it doesn’t have to come from a workbook. In fact, some of the best lessons happen through real-life situations, silly scenarios, and everyday decisions.

In this Just for Kids episode, Felice Gerwitz (Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast) walks children through a memorable problem-solving challenge using a dog, spilled paint, and a whole lot of thinking. Along the way, kids learn how to slow down, consider their options, and make wiser choices.

For homeschool parents, this episode is more than just entertaining. It’s a simple way to teach critical thinking, decision-making, and self-control in a format your kids will actually remember.

Find more Just For Kids episodes:

• 50 Summer Projects For Kids | Just for Kids Podcast

• Soldier Lessons

• Teaching Truth To Kids

What are problem solving skills for kids?

Problem solving skills for kids are the ability to think through a situation, consider different options, weigh the pros and cons, and choose a wise solution. Teaching children problem solving helps them build critical thinking, better decision-making, and confidence in everyday life.

These are skills that matter in academics—but even more in life.

Why problem solving matters in your homeschool

Homeschooling gives us the unique opportunity to teach more than just subjects. We also get to teach our children how to think.

When kids learn how to solve problems, they begin to:

• think before reacting
• consider consequences
• make wiser decisions
• stay calmer in stressful situations
• build independence and confidence

That’s why problem solving is such a valuable homeschool life skill. It supports character, maturity, and common sense—not just schoolwork.

And honestly? Most kids need more practice in this area than we realize.

A simple method for teaching kids problem solving: SODAS

In this episode, Felice teaches a simple acronym kids can remember:

SODAS

Each letter stands for a step in solving a problem:

• S = Situation
• O = Options
• D = Disadvantages
• A = Advantages
• S = Solution

This is a fantastic framework for homeschool families because it gives children a concrete way to stop, think, and work through what to do next.

It’s also something parents can use again and again in everyday life.

Teaching kids to think through consequences

One of the biggest challenges for children is that they often act first and think later. That’s normal—but it’s also something we can train.

A simple problem-solving process helps children move from impulsive reactions to thoughtful choices.

Instead of:

• panicking
• blaming
• yelling
• freezing up

…they begin to ask:

• What happened?
• What are my options?
• What might happen if I choose this?
• What would be the wisest solution?

That’s a skill worth practicing.

Just for Kids: Let’s Practice Problem Solving Together

Okay kids—this part is for you.

Have you ever had an adult ask you:

“What were you thinking?”

If they have… that probably means something didn’t go very well.

But here’s the good news: thinking is a skill, and like any skill, you can get better at it with practice.

When we solve a problem, we use our minds to figure out an answer or a solution. You already do this every day:

• solving math problems
• answering questions in school
• figuring out mysteries in books
• deciding what to do when something goes wrong

But there’s more to problem solving than just getting an answer.

You also have to think ahead.

Sometimes we ask “What if?” questions.

Like:

• What if I do this?
• What if this goes wrong?
• What if I make a better choice?

That kind of thinking helps you make wiser decisions.

And now—it’s time to practice.

The Dog and the Paint Problem

Imagine this…

Your parents have been painting rooms in the house. They’ve stacked several paint cans neatly in the garage until they can put them away.

You have a big, energetic white lab dog. Let’s call him Dakota.

Your parents leave for the store and ask you to keep an eye on the dog.

Everything is quiet for one minute… until suddenly you hear a loud crash in the garage.

You run in and gasp.

Dakota has knocked over the paint cans.

There is paint all over the floor.
There are paw prints everywhere.
And your beautiful white dog is now covered in paint.

Oh no.

So now what?

This is where we use SODAS.

S = Situation

What happened?

The dog knocked over the paint and made a huge mess.

Now ask yourself:

• How do I feel?
• What is the problem?
• What needs to happen first?

Your first reaction might be to yell.

But if you scream at the dog, what might happen?

He could panic and run through even more paint—making an even bigger mess.

So the first step is to look at the situation calmly, even if you feel upset.

O = Options

Now it’s time to think of your choices.

What are some things you could do?

Here are a few possible options:

1. Put a leash on the dog and take him outside
2. Put lids back on the paint cans
3. Scream at the dog
4. Call your parents or get help from a neighbor or sibling
5. Spray the whole garage with a hose

Now ask yourself:

Which of these are actually good ideas?

Sometimes solving a problem means breaking it into smaller steps:

• What should I do first?
• What should I do second?
• What should I definitely NOT do?

That’s smart thinking.

D = Disadvantages

Now think about the cons—the bad parts of each option.

For example:

• Screaming at the dog is a bad idea because he may get scared and run.
• Spraying the garage with a hose might make the paint mess even worse.
• Dragging the dog through the paint could spread the mess even farther.

These are all disadvantages.

Not every option is a wise one—even if it feels fast.

A = Advantages

Now think about the pros—the good parts of your better options.

Some advantages might be:

• Putting a leash on the dog helps contain the mess.
• Taking him outside keeps paint from spreading farther.
• Putting lids back on the cans prevents more spills.
• Getting help may make cleanup easier.

Now you’re starting to think like a real problem solver.

S = Solution

So what is your best solution?

A wise solution might be:

• Get the dog under control
• Take him outside
• Clean him off
• Put him somewhere safe
• Return to clean up the paint
• Call for help if needed

That’s called solving the problem.

You didn’t just react—you thought it through.

And that is a huge skill.

Why practicing problem solving helps kids grow

The more kids practice thinking through situations, the better they get at handling real life.

Problem solving helps children learn to:

• pause before reacting
• make wise choices
• stay calmer under pressure
• think for themselves
• avoid being easily influenced by others

That last one matters a lot.

Kids who learn how to think are less likely to be led astray, manipulated, or pressured into bad decisions. When children can stop and ask, “Is this true? Is this wise? Is this right?” they become stronger thinkers and wiser people.

How parents can use this in everyday homeschool life

The best part about this episode is that it doesn’t have to stay in the podcast player.

Parents can use the SODAS method in real life when kids are dealing with:

• sibling conflict
• forgotten chores
• school frustration
• friend drama
• poor choices
• emotional overreactions

You can even say:

“Let’s SODAS this.”

That turns problem solving into a shared family habit instead of just another lecture.

And honestly? That’s when learning sticks.

Listen to this episode with your kids

If you want a simple, memorable way to teach problem solving skills for kids, this episode is a fun place to start.

It’s practical.
It’s kid-friendly.
And it teaches a life skill your children will use far beyond homeschool.

Listen to: Teaching Kids Problem Solving ~ Episode 426

More homeschool life skills your kids need

If your family enjoys this kind of practical learning, be sure to explore more episodes on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network designed to help families raise thoughtful, capable, and confident kids.

Please visit my website at MediaAngels.com and be sure to sign up for our monthly planners. We have new character planners each month with fun activities that you can do with your children and I think parents really appreciate the page with scenarios. I ask the children questions that they can act out or write their answers. They are open-ended. At the end of the month, the children can even earn a character award that is provided. After the month is over you can only get the planners by purchase on the Media Angels website.

The post Teaching Kids Problem Solving Skills: A Fun Homeschool Life Skill appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but some things really do help.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing enough, saying the right thing, or helping your kids grow in the right direction, this episode is for you.

Listen to This Episode

Want the encouragement and practical takeaways in audio form? Press play and listen while you fold laundry, drive, or reset your homeschool day.

New Here?

If you’re looking for practical homeschool parenting encouragement, start here:

• Parenting In A Media Saturated World

• Parenting That Works

• Successful Parenting ~ That Works!

• Parenting with Influence with Roger and Jan Smith – MBFLP 292

• Browse Parenting & Family Episodes

Thanks to our sponsor,  CTC Math. Learn more at ctcmath.com — and visit their website.

Top Parenting Secrets Covered in This Episode

1. Parenting starts with clarity

Knowing your values and long-term goals changes how you respond in the moment.

2. Your relationship matters more than your image

Connection is often more powerful than control.

3. Encouragement changes everything

Kids often rise—or shut down—based on the tone of the home.

4. Small shifts can create a more peaceful home

Routines, expectations, and consistency matter more than perfection.

This Episode Is Especially Helpful If…

• you feel like you’re constantly correcting instead of connecting
• you want more peace in your home
• you’re parenting strong-willed, emotional, or resistant kids
• you want practical encouragement—not guilt
• you’re homeschooling and parenting at the same time (because of course you are )

Listen Next: More Parenting Encouragement

Homeschool Lifestyle
Last Minute DIY Tips
Money Saving Field Trips
All About Teaching
Raising Spiritually Strong Kids
Six Homeschooling Insider Tips
Best Staycations for Kids
Avoid Curriculum Pitfalls
Top 10 Parenting Secrets
45 Family Date Night Ideas

Check out parenting help here, including our popular Character Planners – Planners and Printables

The post Top 10 Parenting Secrets with Felice Gerwitz appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Feeling like there’s never enough time to do homeschool “right”?

Feeling like it’s hard to get started… or stay consistent in your homeschool?

You’re not alone. Sometimes the biggest challenge isn’t curriculum—it’s simply finding your rhythm and knowing when it’s time to lean in and begin again.

This encouraging episode will help you rethink what really matters, create space for meaningful learning, and give your child room to discover what lights them up.

Listen to This Episode

Need encouragement while you fold laundry, prep dinner, or reset your homeschool plans? Press play here.

New Here?

If you’re looking for practical homeschool encouragement, start here:

• Homeschool Help
• Parenting & Family
• Homeschool Planning & Organization
• Vintage Homeschool Moms

Keep Listening

• Homeschool Motivation Strategies That Work

• How To Be Consistent In Your Homeschooling

• Start Your Homeschool Day Right: Morning Routines That Set the Tone for Success

A Special Replay Episode

We’re excited to bring you this replay of a beloved episode from the Vintage Homeschool Moms archives! Whether you’re new to our show or revisiting this valuable conversation, we hope you’ll find fresh inspiration and practical wisdom for your homeschool journey. This timeless discussion about helping children discover their passions and making the most of your homeschool time is just as relevant today as when it first aired.

This Episode Is Especially Helpful If…

• you feel behind in your homeschool
• you’re worried your child hasn’t “found their thing”
• your days feel too rushed or too reactive
• you want to make space for meaningful learning
• you need permission to slow down a little

Episode Overview

Do you feel like you don’t have enough time to give your kids the education you dream of? In this encouraging episode, host Felice Gerwitz challenges one of the biggest myths in homeschooling: the idea that we don’t have enough time. The truth? You have all the time in the world—because YOU are in charge of your schedule!

Key Takeaways

Breaking Free from the School Model

• Your homeschool doesn’t need to mimic public or private schools
• The goal is creating a love of learning, not covering every subject daily
• Teaching children HOW to research and find answers is more valuable than rote memorization

You ARE the Giver of Time

• You control your homeschool schedule
• Even college-bound students can have time for passion exploration
• Start small: 15-20 minutes before lunch or dinner

What Does Passion Look Like? When children discover their passion, they:

• Get excited and want to share with others
• Show enthusiasm naturally
• Return to activities repeatedly
• Want to learn more and go deeper

Practical Ideas for Younger Children

The Creativity Box – Collect Recyclables:

• Toilet paper and paper towel rolls
• Sturdy plastic yogurt containers
• String, balloons, and straws
• Tape (kids love tape!)
• Paper cups and baggies

Simple Science Activities:

• Balloon rockets on string ziplines
• Baking soda and vinegar experiments
• Magnifying glass exploration (outside!)
• Paper towel roll marble runs

Building and Creating:

• Blocks and bricks (Legos, Duplos)
• Fort-building with blankets and chairs
• Open-ended construction materials

Tips for Encouraging Discovery

1. Be Encouraging and Enthusiastic – Even when things get messy!
2. Ask “Tell Me About It” – Instead of “What is that?” which can discourage children
3. Listen Patiently – Give children time to explain their creations and ideas
4. Provide Resources – Start simple and gradually add complexity
5. Offer Hands-On Learning – Let children explore topics in their own way (videos, projects, presentations)
6. Model Creativity Yourself – Children catch what they see, not just what we teach

For Older Children

Electronics and Technology:

• Consider waiting before introducing electronic devices
• Use monitoring tools like Covenant Eyes for internet safety
• Allow time for learning video editing, stop-motion animation, and other digital skills

Micro Businesses:

• Encourage entrepreneurial projects for high school credit
• Examples from Felice’s children:
  • Small engine and electronics repair business
  • Stop-motion LEGO video creation (Brick Films)
  • Homemade fudge-making business with shipping experiments

The Power of Self-Directed Learning: Michael’s stop-motion video story illustrates how children can:

• Research independently
• Problem-solve without constant adult intervention
• Create impressive projects when given time and space
• Develop marketable skills through passion projects

Important Reminders

Schedule It In – If free exploration time isn’t on the schedule, it won’t happen. Be intentional about protecting this time.

Manage Expectations – Some children haven’t found their passion yet; others have too many interests. Both are normal!

Respect Boundaries – If you tend to be “too helpy,” learn to step back and let children own their projects.

The Spiritual Dimension – Quiet, unstructured time also gives children space to hear God’s still, small voice.

Resources Mentioned

• Media Angels – Over 65 products including books, novels, and downloadable classes at MediaAngels.com
• CTC Math – Comprehensive K-12 math curriculum with engaging video tutorials at ctcmath.com
• Truth Seekers Mystery Series – Christ-centered novels that teach about God’s creation
• Covenant Eyes – Internet monitoring for family device safety
• Dollars and Cents Podcast – By Carol Topp on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network, great for micro business ideas

Connect with Felice

• Website: MediaAngels.com
• Visit: TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com
• Find show notes and links for each episode
• Rate and review on iTunes to help others discover the show!

Final Thought

By giving your children time to think, explore, and create, you’re not just developing their passions—you’re teaching them to slow down, listen, and be present with the Lord. In our busy world, this might be one of the greatest gifts we can offer.

Vintage Homeschool Moms is a production of the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Sponsored by CTC Math and Media Angels Publishing

See: Blog Post here including the video I discussed in the audio – Mike’s LEGO brick video (in progress).

See the Blog Post for the Printable – 11 Steps to Creating a Brick Film

Recommended:

Secret Code Time – a book that changed my relationship with my child

Covenant Eyes: Go here for more info

The post Time to Learn: How to Stay Consistent in Your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Top Ten Time Savers ~ Episode 524

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

We all need to save time each day, and I have learned the hard way that making the time to get organized needs to become a priority and not an afterthought. This actually came to me at homeschool conferences. And, it was thanks to people like you, who share your hearts with conference speakers, that I was able to reflect on my own life. One of the most enjoyable parts of speaking over the years at the conference was the people I met and how much I learned from all of you. Your insights and experiences have been invaluable in shaping my understanding of productivity. Oftentimes it was to take a closer look at my life and actually get it as together as people seemed to think that I had my life! I mean, to get to speak at a conference, you have to know what you are talking about, right?

Sure. On topics of teaching science, implementing hands-on teaching methods in your homeschool, creating winning science fair projects, writing and publishing books, and wait for it…”Getting Things Done” in your homeschool!

Questions I was typically asked at homeschool conferences:

“How did you have time to write books and homeschool?” My answer? I made the time.

Another asked, “How do you do so much?” My answer? “I do many things, but not all of them well.”

or my favorite, “When I grow up I want to be like you.” (I smiled and thought — is she saying I’m old?)

Time Savers That Help!

• Mega Lists
• Organizational Hacks

Okay, all kidding aside, what are some time savers that help? I have a list that I will share and then explain. The list contains things to help you now with time saving, but really, it goes deeper. It is a matter of training yourself to compete in this world of disorder and distraction and come out on top (or at least in the top ten)!

Top Ten Time Savers:

1. Saying no.
2. Putting things in their place. Finding your things a place if they don’t have one. (Keys, books, etc.)
3. Do it now.
4. Write it on a mega list. (electronic – Evernote – or Notes on Mac)
5. Child discipline
6. Avoid distractions.
7. No phone conversations/ texts
8. Errands/ appointments on one day
9. Shop online
10. Get refreshed

Number One: Saying No! 

Moms, quit volunteering. I know it is fun, it makes us feel productive, but it is a time suck. Maybe do it for one year, but not consistently. People will take advantage of you, and I learned that it was better to pour the time and effort into my own family rather than work myself to the bone and ignore my husband and kids because I had to prepare 42 cupcakes for co-op and plan a lesson because otherwise it would not get done. There is a season for volunteering, it is not when you have little ones and no energy or time. Harsh? Maybe, but true.

Number Two: Putting Things In Their Place 

How many hours have you spent searching for things? Lost keys, books, toys, papers? Am I right? If you have a place to hang your keys (or leave them in a special pocket in your purse, a file for papers, a notebook for homeschool papers, a homeschool shelf, or a bin for books, it will save you a lifetime of searching.

Number Three: Do It Now

Do you know it takes brain power to put things off for later, especially if you forget, or it weighs upon your mind? I try to do things as soon as possible that need to be completed whenever I can. I have found in over thirty years of being in business that the busiest people I know are the ones who get back to me the fastest. When I asked for recommendations for books I was writing, those who I thought would never do it got back to me within the hour in some cases and one day in another. They’ve taught themselves how to be productive.

Number Four: Mega List

I have mega lists for various things, groceries are one. I take off the things I don’t need and I’m off to the store. My latest is sticky notes near the refrigerator, and I write down what we need to replace when we need it. It saves so much time. I keep lists of my kid’s sizes and now grandkids’ sizes so that when I shop, I have these handy. It is a good practice and one that is helpful. But, where is your list? Some people use Evernote. I like to use the notepad on PCs –they even have tabs (but be sure to save it –two places! or Notes on the Mac.

Number Five: Discipline

How much time do you waste on misbehaving kids? Hours. Kids, many of them, have a hard time understanding cause and effect. Implementing this simple process will help you tremendously and free up time but it takes follow through on your part. Are you ready? Set parameters and keep to it. For example, sit your children down (three and older) and explain to them the consequences of misbehavior. The younger the child the teaching moments will come as the child is misbehaving. For example, leaving the remote control alone. If you do not have it out of reach but do not want children touching it, explain the consequences if they break the rules. It is simple but effective only if you follow through. With teens, my philosophy was to say there was going to be a punishment; however, I had to pray about it and would let them know. It only took one time for them to understand that mom having a bit of time to think about a punishment rather than react was allot worse than reaction. We have many podcasts on the topic of the discipline on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Number Six: Avoid Distractions

What is your number one distractor? For me, it is many things. Often, when I sit down to work, the thoughts of twelve other things I need to do jump into my mind. I either write down the important ones or ignore them and yes, it takes mega discipline to do that. However, avoiding distractions is important to getting things done. I’m not talking about your kids or husband here, but I do know it is those little things that get us sidetracked.

Number Seven: Phone/Texts

When I first started homeschooling, we all purchased answering machines (yes, it was a thing) so that we could avoid picking up the phone in order to focus on our homeschooling. Phone calls were distracting. Now we have texts and while I agree it is way shorter to text than talk, it is still distracting. Put your phone in another room, and if you must, set up a ringer for special people that call so you will know if it is a parent or your spouse.

Number Eight: Errands

I group errands and appointments, if possible, close together and on one day so only a portion of my time is disrupted rather than two or three days a week. I also do some of my errands in geographical locations. Save so much time.

Number Nine: Shop Online

Don’t judge, but I started even doing my grocery shopping on occasion online. One of us picks it up or I have it delivered. When I am in a bind, it is so helpful and saves me money and time.

Number Ten: Refreshed

I realized some years back, after I was physically sick, that I had to take control of my health; otherwise, there might be dire consequences. So many of you have your hands full, and my daughter, with nine children, four teens, and the rest under the age of twelve, is an example of this! If you can ask your relatives for help, or partner with a friend. One of my friends had several she traded off with for babysitting services. She’d watch their kids when needed as well. It was so helpful. Sometimes she’d go to a park to pray and felt she was refreshed after this time alone with the Lord.

If even one of these things is helpful, I’m glad! There are many printable planners on the MediaAngels.com/store website you can download that may help! Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and please share this episode or podcast with a friend if it has been helpful.

The post Top Ten Time Savers (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Birthdays. Graduations. Special Events. Oh. My! Party shortcuts and planning are the only way I survive hosting events, and in the many years of motherhood, grandmotherhood (yes, that is a thing), and having the largest house so of course family comes here. Join me as I share my best secrets for hosting with you.

Visit my website at Media Angels.com for great books, character planning guides and so much more.

The latest and greatest party I finished hosting was the Easter Sunday meal. We had 24 people, then 28, and then 29, and we ended with 32 people in all. We had sixteen children, sixteen and under, and seventeen adults. Truthfully, the numbers this year threw me because we typically have a sit-down meal – buffet style, but still, everyone has a seat and the odd number at one big table with extensions and additional tables added was a bit of a juggle. But, we did it and everything went beautifully down to the previously prepared casseroles and dishes and the last-minute baked ham and tenderloin roast.

My short-cuts have taken me years to perfect and it has taken years of slowly buying one new thing to add to my party arsenal, but it has been money-saving in the long run. I tried many different things. One year I used disposable plates. The next year I added disposable utensils, cups, and napkins, but I didn’t like how they looked and they were expensive especially if I wanted party store variety rather than bargain-basement styrofoam.

The first thing I did was gather tablecloths. Not super expensive or linen, but cotton. Something that would hold up to years of washing and continue to look good. Also, it had to be something that could handle the invariable stains and spills. I ended up with two color schemes that also went with the colors of my accent walls. One was a deep burgundy table cloth that I paired with matching cloth napkins, and the next was a golden color that I paired with blue napkins. I made napkin rings after the ones I wanted were five dollars each! I used shower curtain plastic circles as well as wood dowels – each had different colors of ribbon wrapped around and glued in place. For the wood, I used a light, glimmery (not glittery – I do not like glitter!) and those were translucent and so pretty.

So with tables done, I searched for decorations that could be used for birthdays as well as holidays and found sales on candles after the summer bridal season in white and off-white. I purchased these back in 2005 when my daughter married and I still use them on special occasions – I don’t light them, although I have them they don’t look as great placed out as decorations.

My biggest expense was cut flowers that I purchased. I stretched bouquets with baby’s breath and smaller vases to place on the tables. It stretches your flower budget remarkably well!

Next was food – what do I serve that will again not break the bank? First off appetizers help tremendously in cutting down the food cost. It can be as easy as a cheese platter and crackers, veggies, and dip. This year I assigned appetizers to the guests and it was remarkable in that they arrived on time or early (then you have free help if you need last-minute things) and it took the early prep work off my list.

Baked ham is relatively inexpensive if you do not buy the already sliced and prepared. I know many people like the honey-baked ham, but a large pre-cooked ham roast you get at the grocery store can feed an army. Potatoes are another way to fill people up and of course, there are rolls. Round it off with a salad and chips (if you have kids) and you are ready to go.

I bake or prep casseroles ahead of time so they need to be taken out to warm up slightly before baking or it take way too long. Our family is a fan of lasagna and at any given time I have no less than three prepared in the freezer ready to go. All it takes is a salad and bread to round off that easy meal. (Well, easy once it’s prepared.)

So last minute and party shortcuts in a nutshell:

1. Collect reusable table cloths, napkins, and serving trays.
2. Use plastic wear and disposable items when there is a large crowd, or want less clean up.
3. Assign a dish for others to bring.
4. Plan out the menu at least three weeks in advance and shop sales.
5. Bake and freeze whenever possible.
6. Set out tables and chairs the day before with assigned seating. Guest appreciate this and of course, people can change or move, but it gives everyone a place to sit and put their stuff.
7. Use name cards for place settings (I keep mine year after year).
8. Use fresh flowers for a splash of color.
9. Take out the trash the day before (don’t forget to clean the bathroom guests will use.)
10. Make a time chart of when dishes need to be baked or reheated as well as when to take things out of the refrigerator or oven (once items go in!).
11. Use juice boxes for the little kids – so much easier and less spilled.
12. Have water, lemonade and tea for everyone else – if people want special drinks they can bring them.
13. Use plastic cups with a sharpy to keep everyone’s drinks straight.
14. Have one or two people in charge to help you.
15. Assign clean-up!

As much as I try to prepare ahead of time there is always last-minute things that need my attention, and truthfully the hostess rarely gets to mingle with the guests until the meal is served! In our home we have the oldest go through the line first, and when it is the parent’s turn with the little ones, they can get their children’s meals. Usually, everyone has snacked on appetizers that no one is starving and it works out well.

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Bulletproof Your Child’s Future Career Vs. AI ~ Episode 575

sponsored by CTCMath.com

As a homeschool mom myself for many years, I’ve always been passionate about equipping our children not just for the present, but for a future that’s full of possibilities. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s on many parents’ minds: how to bulletproof your child’s career against the rise of artificial intelligence. We’ll talk about why this matters, especially in our homeschooling journey, and I’ll share a list of 27 careers—some requiring college degrees and others vocational paths—that stand strong in the face of AI. Let’s get started.

Understanding the AI Landscape in Our Children’s Future

As homeschool parents, we have the unique opportunity to guide our kids toward paths that align with their God-given talents. But let’s face it, the world is changing rapidly with AI stepping into roles we once thought were secure. I’ve seen reports indicating that automation could displace millions of workers in the coming years, particularly in repetitive or data-driven jobs. Yet, this isn’t a cause for fear; it’s a call to wisdom. In Proverbs 22:6, we’re reminded to train up a child in the way he should go, and part of that is preparing them for a workforce where human qualities like empathy, creativity, and hands-on skill shine brightest.

Equip Our Kids

As homeschool parents, we have tools that can equip our kids. And allowing them time to discover their passions, which can be turned into work at some point, is a gift. I wish I knew how much I enjoyed writing and creativity as a student. My career path may still have included becoming a teacher (my major was Education), but I would have taken additional creative writing courses beyond the prerequisites. My business revolves around writing and speaking, neither of which I received formal training for, and yet I made it into a successful career spanning thirty-one years.

AI excels at tasks such as data analysis and routine processing, but it falls short in areas that require personal connection, complex judgment, or physical adaptability. For our homeschool families, whether you’re leaning on faith-based curricula or blending secular resources, this means focusing on skills that build resilience. Think about nurturing critical thinking, as we discussed in past episodes on teaching kids to think independently. By homeschooling, we can tailor education to emphasize these irreplaceable human elements, helping our children thrive no matter what technology brings.

Why Some Careers Remain Resistant to AI

What makes a career bulletproof against AI? It boils down to roles that demand emotional intelligence, intricate physical work, or ethical decision-making in unpredictable settings. For instance, healthcare professions often require that personal touch—comforting a patient or making split-second calls based on nuances AI can’t fully grasp. Similarly, skilled trades involve navigating real-world variables, like fixing a unique plumbing issue in an old home, where dexterity and improvisation are key.

We just had a water heater installed, and the timer was misconfigured; the heater was set to the coldest setting. It took the technician returning to our home and resetting some dials to get it working. Sure, there are things like “smart” appliances, but they are not always as smart as they think.

In our Christian homeschool communities, we value vocations that serve others and reflect Christ’s call to love our neighbors. Even for families of other faiths or secular backgrounds, these careers offer fulfillment through meaningful impact. As parents, we can pray for discernment, asking God to reveal paths where our children’s strengths align with what society needs. Remember, AI may assist with diagnostics or planning, but it can’t replace the human heart behind the work. And that, friends, is the crux of the problem: people believing that it can.

College Careers That Stand Strong Against Automation

For children geared toward higher education, there are plenty of degree-requiring fields that AI is unlikely to overtake. These often involve advanced training in human-centered disciplines. Nursing, for example, combines medical knowledge with compassionate care, and it’s projected to grow steadily due to an aging population. Special education teachers adapt to individual student needs in ways that require deep empathy and creativity, making this a secure choice for those passionate about helping children with unique challenges. In fact many homeschool parents homeschool because their children need additional help. Believe me the schools still do not have the answer to this problem, but I am grateful that I did receive some special education training that was valuable in schooling my own children.

Other Strong Options

Other strong options include physical therapy, where hands-on rehabilitation requires personalized assessment, and counseling, focusing on mental health support that hinges on building trust. Especially if it is grounded in Christian faith. Many mental health problems are solved by nutrition, and I’ve seen this over and over again, where a good nutritionist can help with gut health, which then clears up mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Lawyers navigate ethical complexities and courtroom dynamics, while social workers address community issues with sensitivity. These paths require not only knowledge but also a strong Judeo/Christian foundation. Many people thrive in these careers, but a solid spiritual foundation is important. Some Christians pursue work in mission-oriented organizations or in family counseling, which offers greater flexibility to share their faith.

Vocational Paths That AI Can’t Touch

Not every child needs a four-year degree to succeed, and that’s a blessing in homeschooling—we can embrace apprenticeships and certifications early. Vocational trades are powerhouse options here, as they rely on physical skills and on-site problem-solving that AI struggles with. Plumbers and electricians, for instance, handle unpredictable environments. My husband has been involved in new construction and remodeling for over 46 years. People turn to him for his expertise, gained on the job. In fact, he became a home inspector because of his construction expertise; it was a separate business from construction, but one he excelled in for many years.

HVAC technicians maintain systems essential for comfort and safety, often requiring quick adaptations. Mechanics diagnose vehicle issues with a blend of technical know-how and hands-on expertise. If you have a favorite mechanic, you are likely loyal to bringing your vehicle back to him rather than to others you may not trust. These trades are in so much demand. Sure, computers are used for diagnosis, but they can’t repair the car. Yet.

What About Personal Services?

Even personal services such as hairdressing and cosmetology thrive on creativity and client relationships. During the 2008 crisis in the building industry, my hairdresser remained in high demand. In fact, my hairdresser at the time used to work in insurance and then construction until he wanted a “recession-proof” career and found that he was good at cosmetology. He taught at the local vocational school for many years.

For our families, these paths can lead to entrepreneurship, allowing flexible schedules that honor family time and faith commitments. Plus, they’re often quicker to enter and offer strong earning potential without massive debt. I read a discussion on X, and several people warned about starting their own business. Starting your own business is a great idea, but do it slowly and don’t borrow money if at all possible. I met many authors who wrote books on the side and continued their day jobs until their writing could pay the bills. This is wise.

A Comprehensive List of 27 AI-Resistant Careers

To make this practical, here’s an incomplete list of twenty-seven careers, balanced between college-required and vocational options. I’ve drawn from reliable insights on job growth and automation risks to ensure they’re forward-thinking. Encourage your child to explore these through shadowing, online courses, or prayerful reflection.

College-Required Careers (13):

1. Physician – Diagnosing and treating patients with holistic care.
2. Nurse – Providing bedside support and monitoring health.
3. Mental Health Therapist – Guiding emotional well-being.
4. Teacher (K-12) – Inspiring and educating young minds.
5. Special Education Teacher – Tailoring learning for diverse needs.
6. Lawyer – Advocating in legal matters with ethical insight.
7. Social Worker – Supporting families and communities.
8. Physical Therapist – Rehabilitating injuries hands-on.
9. Occupational Therapist – Helping with daily living skills.
10. Psychologist – Studying and treating mental processes.
11. Surgeon – Performing precise operations.
12. Psychiatrist – Managing mental health with medication and therapy.
13. Civil Engineer – Designing infrastructure with real-world adaptation.

Vocational Careers (14):

1. Plumber – Installing and repairing water systems.
2. Electrician – Wiring and maintaining electrical setups.
3. Welder – Joining metals in construction and manufacturing.
4. Auto Mechanic – Fixing vehicles with diagnostic skills.
5. HVAC Technician – Servicing heating and cooling units.
6. Carpenter – Building and repairing structures.
7. Hairdresser – Styling hair with creative flair.
8. Chef – Preparing meals with culinary artistry.
9. Personal Trainer – Coaching fitness goals personally.
10. Cosmetologist – Enhancing beauty through treatments.
11. Firefighter – Responding to emergencies with bravery.
12. Construction Manager – Overseeing building projects (often via certification).
13. Podcaster – Engaging audiences through audio storytelling and personal insights.
14. Author – Crafting original narratives and content with creative depth.
15. “Coach” – Life Coach, Writing Coach, or Sports or Atheletic Coach

These careers emphasize human elements that AI can’t replicate, offering security and purpose. If this list does not reflect your child’s goals or passions, use it as a starting point.

Preparing Your Homeschooler for These Opportunities

Remember, homeschooling gives us the tools to intentionally prepare our kids. Incorporate real-world experiences, like apprenticeships for trades or volunteer work for healthcare paths. Pray together for guidance, trusting in Jeremiah 29:11 that God has plans to prosper them. Don’t use this verse as a crutch, but use it for encouragement. We must take that first step! Discuss your child’s interests openly, and use resources such as online certifications to explore potential interests.

Thank you for tuning in to Vintage Homeschool Moms. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow homeschool friend and until next time, may God bless your family abundantly.

For More Listening:

• Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz – Explore fostering independence and critical thinking.
• Time Management For Kids (Special Replay) – Help children manage time for productivity and passions.
• Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout – Strategies to recharge and stay motivated.
• Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm – Tips for managing homeschool challenges.
• Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice | Replay – Practical tips for flexible homeschool routines.

The post Bulletproof Your Child’s Future Career appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Renew Your Homeschooling: Finding Your Why ~ Episode 574

The post Renew Your Homeschooling appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

In a fun flip of the interview seat, Lisa Nehring interviews Felice Gerwitz, founder of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, about how slowing down our responses helps children develop independence, confidence, and strong critical thinking skills.

Felice explains why constantly rushing to give answers, solve problems, or fill silence can unintentionally limit a child’s ability to reason, process information, and trust their own judgment. Instead, she encourages parents to create space for curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful decision-making.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why children need time to process before responding

• How open-ended questions support critical thinking

• The role patience plays in raising independent learners

• How homeschooling naturally supports deeper thinking

• Why “thinking time” is not neglect—but intentional parenting

This episode is especially helpful for homeschooling parents, educators, and families who want to raise thoughtful, capable kids prepared for real-world problem solving. Whether your child is young or nearing adulthood, learning when not to step in can make all the difference.

Popular Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes with Felice Gerwitz

Homeschool Lifestyle
Last Minute DIY Tips
Money Saving Field Trips
All About Teaching
Raising Spiritually Strong Kids
Six Homeschooling Insider Tips
Best Staycations for Kids
Avoid Curriculum Pitfalls
Top 10 Parenting Secrets
45 Family Date Night Ideas

Thank you to our sponsor, CTC Math.

The post Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

What is the one thing you can’t get back? Time. In this episode, we talk about time management for kids and how to learn to take charge of your time. You will be surprised how much time you gain! Another episode just for kids.

Check out this episode just for kids! 

1. Kids Making Good Decisions.
2. Choosing Good Behavior
3. Family Life 

Books for tweens – Truth Seekers Mystery Series. 

Are you on time? Always? Sure, it is hard to be on time especially when you think you have lots of time and why should you hurry. Besides everyone will wait for you, right?

Well, surprise! I bet you will get in trouble if you are late or make your family wait. So, today we are going to discuss time. This is time you can never get back.

Punctuality means being early or on time. In fact, some people think if you are on time that means you are late.

What do you think? Do you like being late?

Do you like waiting for other people?
Most people have an opinion on this and I am sure this is something you can talk to your family about, but one thing to think about is this. Punctuality has to do with respect. People who are late show think more highly of their time than the time of others. Does this mean you don’t care? Maybe. But more than likely it means you have not given it any thought because once we think of respect, I am sure you think this is important for all people.

So, the first thing I want you to do is to look at your time. How do you manage your time? Most kids don’t manage their time because they don’t have to. You have parents who tell you when to get up or when it is time to eat. When it is time to do your schoolwork or go to church. We are managed by a family that loves and supports us. But, at some point we need to be responsible for our own time.

Look at what you like to do. If you could have a day that is all yours to plan what would you do? What does your dream day look like? This may be a topic you want to think about. You may include some of these points: sleeping in or getting up early, eating your favorite foods, watching a movie or reading a book, playing with your friends, going to a park, or maybe a trip to the zoo. Your time would be spent on the things you enjoy. So, let’s look at that list and go to a hobby. A hobby is something you like to do in your spare time. How can you fit this in when your day is filled with the things you have to do? That is what time management is all about. You manage your time so that you can fit in some fun things.

But, you might say you are busy with school work and chores and you have not time. Hmm… let’s look at this. What do you do when you are busy with school and chores? Are you doing them well and quickly or are you wasting time? If you look at how you spend your time you will earn that while it may be fun to laugh at your brother or sister, or lose a book and have to spend time finding it, or forget that you have an assignment…in the long run you are only hurting yourself.

So, let’s go through a list:

1. How do you want to spend your free time?
2. What can you do to stop wasting time?
3. What are some things you have to do each day that can be done quicker?

Another surprise is that I am sure your mom or dad will definitely help you to gain more time in your day, because you know what? If you are more productive–that means you get more things done well and quickly, that gives your family more time as well. This means you respect each other, you respect each other’s time and you are happy to get your chores and school work done because you have a goal at the end, and that is spending time doing the things you enjoy!

Good work and good effort is often rewarded. It is rewarded by the knowledge that you did your best and it is practice for the future. I really wish someone had taught me how to manage my time when I was younger. I will have another session on time management for teens upcoming. I am excited about your future because with more time it will allow you to explore things that you are passionate about. Think about all of the amazing inventors such as Thomas Edison, The Wright Brothers and Benjamin Franklin to name a few. As kids, they were constantly experimenting and thinking about new ideas and look at what they did as adults. Now is your time and I hope you use it wisely!

The post Time Management For Kids (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Strategies for Homeschoolers: Overcoming Burnout – Episode 573

Welcome, dear listeners, to another encouraging episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms. As a mom who’s homeschooled for over three decades, I’ve faced those moments when the weight of curriculum choices, daily chores, and family dynamics feels like too much. But today, we’re shifting from survival mode to thriving by focusing on innovative, faith-grounded approaches that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re a Christian or Catholic family seeking spiritual alignment or approaching homeschooling from a secular viewpoint, these ideas are adaptable to renew your energy and keep the joy alive in your home education.

Recognizing the Signs of Homeschool Burnout

Burnout often creeps in when our expectations clash with reality—perhaps from overcommitting to co-ops, rigid schedules that don’t flex with life, or neglecting personal recharge time. In my own experience, it showed up as irritability during lessons or dreading the start of a new week. Drawing from biblical principles like finding rest in the Lord (as in Matthew 11:28), we can view burnout not as failure but as a signal to realign. For families of all backgrounds, this means assessing your current setup: Are you trying to replicate traditional school too closely, or ignoring the natural ebbs and flows of home life?

Building Sustainable Routines for Long-Term Energy

One key to lasting strength is crafting flexible weekly plans that incorporate variety. Instead of a one-size-fits-all schedule, try theme-based days—like “Exploration Monday” for hands-on science or history projects, which keeps things fresh and prevents monotony. I’ve found that rotating subjects based on energy levels helps; for instance, tackle high-focus tasks in the morning when everyone’s alert, and save creative activities for afternoons. This approach, inspired by the idea of stewardship over our time, allows space for unexpected blessings or challenges without derailing the whole day.

Another effective method is integrating short, purposeful breaks with movement or nature. Step outside for a 10-minute walk to discuss a lesson informally, or use that time for quick household resets. This not only combats mental fatigue but also models balance for your kids, showing them that productivity includes self-care. For faith-centered homes, frame these pauses as moments to appreciate creation, fostering gratitude that counters exhaustion.

Fostering Community and Support Networks

Isolation can amplify burnout, so intentionally build connections with other homeschoolers. Join or start a local co-op where you swap teaching duties—one week you handle math games, the next a friend covers art. In my years, these partnerships have been lifesavers, providing accountability and fresh perspectives. Online forums or apps for homeschool meetups can work too, especially if in-person options are limited. Think of it as embodying the community spirit in scriptures like Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, where two are better than one, but it’s equally valuable for secular families seeking practical collaboration.

Delegate age-appropriate responsibilities to your children to lighten your load. Create a family chore wheel or assign “helper roles” during school time, like older siblings guiding younger ones in reading. This empowers kids with ownership and frees you up, turning potential stress points into growth opportunities. I’ve seen this transform our home dynamic, reducing my overwhelm while building their independence.

Prioritizing Personal Renewal and Mindset Shifts

To sustain your role, carve out non-negotiable “mom time”—perhaps an evening hobby like journaling goals or listening to uplifting audiobooks. Set boundaries, such as ending school by a certain hour to enjoy family downtime. Reframe challenges positively: Instead of seeing a tough day as defeat, celebrate small wins, like a child’s “aha” moment. For Christian families, this ties into renewing your mind as in Romans 12:2, but anyone can benefit from mindset tools like daily affirmations focused on progress over perfection.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Joy in Your Homeschool Journey

Overcoming burnout isn’t about drastic overhauls but consistent, intentional steps that restore balance and purpose. By implementing these strategies, you’ll move from feeling depleted to embracing the abundance homeschooling offers. Thanks for tuning in, friends—may your week be filled with renewed vigor and meaningful connections.

• Assess and Adjust Your Schedule: Review your weekly plan and introduce theme days or flexible blocks to add variety and prevent routine fatigue.
• Incorporate Movement Breaks: Schedule 10-15 minute outdoor or active pauses daily to refresh minds and bodies, discussing lessons casually to keep learning flowing.
• Build a Support Network: Connect with one or two homeschool families for shared teaching sessions or virtual check-ins to share the load and gain new ideas.
• Delegate Family Roles: Assign tasks like prep work or peer tutoring to kids, using tools like chore charts to foster responsibility and ease your burden.
• Claim Personal Recharge Time: Block out 30 minutes daily for a hobby or reflection, setting firm end times for school to protect your well-being.

For More Listening: Explore These Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes

Deepen your understanding of prayer and burnout prevention with these related episodes from the Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast:

• Homeschool Burn Out
• When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling
• Time Management For Parents | Replay
• Mommy Jammies Night
• Peaceful Homeschooling: 5 Simple Ways to Create a Calm, Christ-Centered Home

Thank you to our sponsor:

Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. 

The post Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. 

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms. My prayer is that this episode fills you with hope and encouragement as you pour into the future generation of children! People don’t thank us for homeschooling our own children, but I do extend a thank-you because what you do in your own home will impact many people. Those. You know, and those you may never meet! I hope you walk away encouraged and that I can share some practical wisdom.

I’m Felice Gerwitz, your host, and today we begin a two-part series on overcoming homeschool mom burnout through prayer strategies.

As a veteran homeschooler myself, I’ve walked through seasons of deep exhaustion, and I know many of you are there right now.

According to recent surveys from the National Home Education Research Institute, over 80 percent of homeschool parents report significant stress, and in our faith-led communities on platforms like X, spiritual coping is a key theme for 2026 resolutions.

I was blessed to interview Dr. Brian Ray in past episodes, and his research is exhaustive. As long-time homeschool parents, we must be the light at the end of the tunnel and an encouragement to others.

This series draws inspiration from biblical principles and shared experiences to help you move from overwhelm to a place of overflow, where God’s peace sustains your daily efforts.

Understanding Homeschool Mom Burnout

Burnout in homeschooling often creeps in quietly. It starts with the endless to-do lists: planning lessons, managing household chores, nurturing relationships, and perhaps even juggling outside commitments.

For many Christian moms, there’s an added layer of spiritual responsibility—ensuring our children’s education aligns with our faith values. I’ve seen this in my own journey and heard it from countless families. The weight can feel crushing, leading to fatigue, irritability, and a loss of joy in what should be a fulfilling calling.

And that is when all the doubt begins to creep in; we feel that if we share our burdens with our spouse, it will appear weak. And we can’t complain to our friends, especially those who don’t support homeschooling or who have opted for co-ops or full-time traditional school after homeschooling. That is where we shoulder those burdens and bury them deep.

But here’s the hope: God doesn’t intend for us to carry this alone. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are weary, promising rest for our souls. Prayer isn’t just an add-on; it’s the foundation that anchors us. By integrating prayer strategies into our routines, we can reclaim that rest and renew our strength, as Isaiah 40:31 reminds us. (…but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.)

Practical Prayer Strategies for Daily Renewal

Let’s start with simple, intentional practices. Begin your day with a surrender prayer. Before the children wake or lessons begin, spend five to ten minutes in quiet communion with the Lord. Acknowledge your limitations and invite His guidance. Something as straightforward as, “Lord, this day is Yours; help me to do Your will,” can shift your perspective from self-reliance to divine dependence.

Another strategy is breath prayers throughout the day. These are short, scripture-based affirmations you can whisper during transitions—like when switching from math to history or folding laundry. For instance, drawing from Philippians 4:6-7, (Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.)

Keep in mind the key words: do not be anxious, pray, give thanks, pray for peace, and keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus! This grounds you in the moment and combats the mental clutter that fuels burnout.

Consider creating a prayer journal specifically for your homeschool challenges. Note specific stressors, like curriculum frustrations or child conflicts, and pair them with verses of promise. Over time, record how God answers, building a testimony of His faithfulness that you can revisit on tough days.

I know this sounds like alot and if you have little ones you are thinking, “What time, Felice?” But, you can do the Jesus prayer. Just say the name of Our Lord and Savior when you need Him the most. “Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.” or my favorite. “Jesus I trust in You!”

Building a Support Network Through Prayer

Isolation amplifies burnout, so incorporate intercessory prayer. Connect with other homeschool moms in your church or online faith groups. Share prayer requests anonymously if needed, focusing on mutual upliftment. I’ve found that praying for others often lightens my own load, as it reminds me we’re all in this together under God’s grace.

Don’t think you are alone because you are not! That is a lie of the enemy to keep us isolated and to make us think we are not enough. You are. Remember, A bad day of homeschooling is better than the best day of traditional school. My children still talk about homeschooling days, and most of them plan to homeschool their own children. Our homeschool was far from perfect, but they understood that at the core of any difficult lesson was the love I had for each of them and the love of their father.

In our community, many emphasize starting small prayer circles—perhaps a weekly call with one or two fellow moms to pray over each other’s families. This not only provides emotional support but also models prayer for our children, teaching them to seek God in their struggles. If you can arrange a park day once a month, that is even better. Our group met for First Fridays: we went to Mass on the first of the month, followed by a park day with lunch packed. It was such a blessing.

As we close this first part, remember that burnout is a signal to pause and realign with God’s purposes. Prayer strategies like daily surrender, quoting scripture, extemporaneous prayers, and journaling can transform your approach. In part two, we’ll dive deeper into advanced practices, including fasting and scripture meditation, with real-life examples from homeschool families. Stay tuned, and may God’s peace guard your heart today.

• When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling
• Self Care for Life Transitions for Homeschool Moms
• Christian Self Care for the Homeschool Mom
• Transform Your Homeschool with Biblical Prayer Practices
• Homeschooling When Mom Is Sick

The post Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Tara shares how families can use games as practical “brain training” tools—especially helpful for kids who struggle with multi-step directions, working memory, or word-finding.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn

Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math.

Why educational games work (and how to make them “transfer” to real life)

Tara explains that games are far more effective when kids can name the skill they’re practicing and learn to apply it outside the game—socially and academically.

Easy “games on the go” for homeschool families

These quick, no-prep games can be played in the car, in line, or during errands:

• The Mailbox Game (Analogies + Associations)
  One item “goes into the mailbox,” and something connected by one trait comes out. Great for analogy thinking, flexible reasoning, and verbal explanation.

• What Are We Having for Dinner? (Categorization + Emotional Language)
  Kids sort items into “tasty,” “nasty,” or “aww” (soft fuzzy empathy items). Builds categorization, quick responses, and expressive language.

• Rapid Naming Game (Vocabulary Retrieval + Processing Speed)
  Fast category naming (like groceries, sports team names, etc.), using visualization strategies to improve speed and accuracy.

Grocery store brain games that double as life skills

Felice shares a fun “theme scavenger hunt” style game using science connections (like Mars bars = planets or Milky Way = space), boosting creative associations and attention.

Tara adds a smart extension: teach kids to notice marketing placement—what’s at eye level, on end caps, and why—while also building visual awareness.

Featured Game Resource Mentioned

Name 5 (Endless Games)

A category-prompt game Tara uses to support rapid naming, vocabulary growth, and research prompts when kids get stuck on categories.

Q&A: “My son can’t follow more than one direction at a time—how do we do this?”

Tara breaks down practical strategies for kids who struggle with following multi-step directions, including:

• teaching directions one step at a time

• having the child repeat the step back

• using visualization (“see yourself doing it”)

• helping kids connect the “missing steps” in a sequence

This section is especially helpful for parents supporting kids with auditory processing challenges or working memory limitations.

Card Games That Teach (and What Skills They Build)

Tara recommends several high-impact educational card games and explains how to use them for skill-building (even before playing the “official” rules):

SET

Builds pattern recognition, logic, sorting, visual discrimination, and multi-feature processing. Tara also shares pre-game exercises (sorting by color/shape/number/shading) to reduce overwhelm and build mastery.

Blink

Fast-paced matching by shape, color, or number—great for processing speed and flexible thinking. Tara recommends starting with open-hand play and emphasizing skill before speed.

7-8-9

A mental math card game using quick +/– calculations. Great for strengthening math fluency (when kids are ready).

Spot It! (and variations)

Strengthens visual processing, scanning, and attention by finding the one matching symbol between cards. Tara shares strategies like elimination by color to narrow focus.

About Today’s Guest: Tara Jenner

Tara Jenner is a homeschool mom and brain training specialist who works with families and students to strengthen cognitive skills through practical exercises and targeted support.

Find Tara here:

• TheBrain-Trainers.com

What’s Coming in Part 2

In Games That Teach (Part 2), Felice and Tara will move into board games and additional strategies for building memory skills through play.

Listen + Subscribe

You can listen to this episode at TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com and follow the show on your favorite podcast app.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

The post Games That Teach (Part 1): Brain Training Games for Homeschool Learning + Special Needs Support appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

The Best homeschool scheduling advice I ever received actually came from my daughter. She said, “Mom if we are going to duplicate the school system then why homeschool?” With that in mind, I looked at the way I scheduled my homeschool year. I made time for those special events that make homeschooling stand out from the conventional school curriculum. Whether it is a field trip, a family trip that is planned or one-to-one mentoring with a talented person. In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, I’ll explain the best homeschool scheduling advice, ever!

Thanks to our sponsor –  CTC Math!

Questions to ask yourself before you begin scheduling!

1. What are your state laws — are you compliant?
2. Are you part of a support group? This network IS part of your support!
3. What are your goals and objectives for the year?
4.  What method of homeschooling do you lean toward? If you don’t know listen to this podcast on the topic HERE PUT LINK
5. How long are you planning to homeschool? 4, 5, or 6 hours or more per day? Check out your homeschool laws here if you don’t already know them: https://hslda.org/content/laws/
6. Are you flexible?
7. Do you like check-off lists? For you? For the kids?

These questions will set the groundwork for how you’d like to set up your homeschool year. What I might consider the best homeschool scheduling advice may not align with your homeschool philosophy. However, I hope you can take what you need and make it work for you! With this clearly in mind, here is some of the best advice I can share with you about homeschool schedules and ways to have a stress-free year.

Best Homeschool Scheduling Tips:

1. Keep your eyes focused on your family’s needs. What Sally Jo uses for her kids may not work for yours.
2. Look at your goals. What do you hope to accomplish this year? What subjects do you want to cover this year?
3. Is it important to develop your child’s creativity and imagination and encourage them to think?
4. What character qualities do you want to work on? If you want to strengthen family relationships, select reading materials or read aloud the books that will do just that. Read the Little House on the Prarie (younger) or Anne of Green Gables (older).
5. Each child is unique, consider your child’s needs.
6. Never recreate the public/private classroom at home.
7. Don’t forget about you. Do you have help scheduled, whether that is a chore chart so everyone can pitch in, or a park day so you can visit with friends?
8. Never – and that means never answer the phone while you are homeschooling. Set special ringtones for important people – others go to voice mail. This goes for checking Facebook or social media in general.
9. Never and that means never -unless it is absolutely impossible go on an errand during school time. No grocery store shopping, doctor appointments – until after school or on a day off if you take one, etc.

Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice — Ever! 

Tools & Supplies:

1. Three-Inch Binder: Use a three-ring binder. I began a master homeschool binder when I first began homeschooling and it contains ALL the must-haves… First, copies of their schedules, and important information: everything from blanks I could duplicate to things I always had to look up previously. I have the children’s evaluations in this binder from the beginning of our homeschooling in Kindergarten through twelfth grade! I also keep a copy of their evaluations in their grade/year notebook.
2. Master Lists: Subjects, books, reading books, grade level goals, etc. I think through this once, add to it if a particular child needs more information, and then file it in my book. I also have a file in a Word doc on my computer that corresponds. Master lists can include a supply list for school, birthdays, and a calendar of events.
3. File cabinet. Throughout the years I kept files on each of the kids and work. As we ended a year, the binder was emptied, the information for the year was filed under the child’s name (and grade labeled), and the binder was then ready for the next year.
4. School Supplies: Notebooks: Look for sales. We get lined, spiral notebooks for less than 20 cents during back-to-school sales. I buy enough for all year. Use a Sharpie (or a nice label from the computer) to label the subject. Notebook paper: This is one of those things we always ran out of when the children were younger. Wide-ruled notebook paper for the little kids and college ruled for older ones. Pencils: We prefer the #2 pencils and some of the kids liked the mechanical pencils, but there was one brand, in particular, they liked best that we could only purchase at an office supply store. Yes, friends, these were “pre-Amazon” days! Of course, depending on your child’s needs there are crayons, markers, erasers (the ones that fit on the pencil and the bigger ones), colored pencils, pens and Sharpies, and highlighters. Don’t forget the 110 lb paper to make your own dividers.
5. Best Purchases: Large Dry Erase Boards and erasable markers, an electric three-hole punch, a laminator, laminating sheets, a stapler, a heavy-duty stapler (to make those books kids love to make), and a heavy-duty tape dispenser. I loved sticky notes and tabs to create my own dividers with 110 lb paper.

Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice:

1. Know Your Kids: Do you know or have you evaluated your children? Our sponsor has these wonderful books for Placement and Evaluation.
2. Organized: Get your books organized. Half the battle if finding the books you need when you need them. School supplies and additional resources. Everything has a place!
3. Freebies: There are lots of sites that say you can get free curriculum, downloads, printables, etc. If you have these – organize them!
4. Scope and Sequence: This states what your kids need to know and as homeschoolers, you can be flexible. Here is a scope and sequence from Abeka as well as Bob Jones that goes from K-12. I’m not endorsing this one way or the other, you have to make your own determination.
5. Flexibility: Build flexibility into your schedule – how can you do this? (Listen to the podcast for tips)
6. Input: Get input from your older children. One year my kids wanted to study oceanography and space. Talk about diverse! Yet those became their favorite subjects.
7. Routine or Schedule? What works for you a routine or schedule? The best homeschool scheduling takes into mind your lifestyle and only you can decide if you want to do things daily with a set schedule or perhaps have a routine that includes daily activities but is more loosely scheduled.
8. Rotate your schedule – doing the same thing all the time can be boring and cause kids to zone out. Maybe you do math every day, but what about history or science? You can do history two times a week and science two times for 6 weeks, and then change it to history three times and science two.
9. 180 Homeschool Days: Get a year’s calendar and circle the days you will school each month. Yes, this can change but it is nice to have it set out before you – so you can plan. 180 days of homeschooling is what my state requires. Check your state information here: https://hslda.org/content/laws/
10. Homeschool Planner: Well Planned Gal planners are my favorite – there are digital, printed, and even prayer planner.  There is also a smaller size to keep in your purse or backpack!
11. Use Checklists: Checklist with pictures for little kids and a checklist for you. It is an easy way to keep records.
12. Breaks: Be sure to highlight birthdays, events, holidays, and field trips. Do you have a catch-up/ planning day? If you can’t have one every week, try for one a month.
13. Field Trips: Be sure to use the resources available to homeschool families in your area.
14. Plan your week: Look at your books and divide the number of homeschool days or weeks by chapters. If there are 30 chapters you may need to do one per week. Etc. In some books you can take two weeks to complete one chapter.
15. Teach Kids Together: Group ages and books/subjects as much as possible. Kids like working together or if they are competitive use it to their advantage.
16. Projects: Plan early. Science fair ideas begin in the summer, papers are signed as soon as school starts (grades six and up). I wrote the book, “An Insider’s Guide to Successful Science Fair Projects available on Media Angels Membership or Amazon here.
17. High School: Planning for high school? Plan a 4-year schedule of required subjects for graduation. The scale is different for a high school diploma vs. a high school diploma with college in mind. Also if your kids are planning to attend college listen to College Prep Genius for ways to ace the SAT and ACT as well as get scholarships. If your kids play sports – know the rules. If your kids are approaching high school and have an eye to playing sports in college read up on the NCAA.org eligibility information about classes that count for high school for college play.

Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – CTC Math

The post Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice | Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Do you feel like joy has been squeezed out by the pressures of homeschooling, family life, or unexpected trials? In this encouraging replay episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast, Felice Gerwitz welcomes Karen Dwyer for a hope-filled conversation about discovering true joy—even in the midst of deep adversity.

Karen, host of the Wrap Yourself in Joy Podcast, shares her powerful testimony of walking with the Lord through devastating loss, including a house fire and the tragic death of her first husband. Instead of being overcome by sorrow, Karen explains how a life rooted in Christ, prayer, and community became the foundation for lasting joy.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why true joy can only be found in a close relationship with Christ

• How to remain anchored in faith during seasons of grief and hardship

• Practical ways to defeat everyday “joy busters”

• How Scripture—especially John 15—points us to complete joy

• Why filling yourself spiritually is essential (yes, even for homeschool moms!)

Introducing Cup of Joy Women’s Small Groups

Karen also introduces Cup of Joy, a simple, welcoming small-group study designed especially for busy moms. Each group:

• Meets for one hour a week over coffee or tea

• Listens to a 15-minute podcast episode beforehand

• Uses a free, one-page PDF discussion guide (sent weekly)

• Focuses on Scripture, prayer, gratitude, and fellowship

These studies are gentle, non-threatening, and perfect for homeschool moms who want community without overwhelm. Groups can be hosted at home, in churches, or even late in the evening once kids are asleep.

Two available 8-week studies include:

• Joyful and Battle Ready

• Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals, and Joy

About Karen Dwyer

Karen Dwyer is a retired college professor, former television cooking show host, author, and passionate encourager of women in faith. Her books Wrap Yourself in Joy and Esther for This Time are newly revised editions rooted deeply in Scripture and practical Christian living.

Helpful Links

• Learn more about Cup of Joy & sign up: wrapyourselfinjoy.com

• Listen to Karen’s podcast: wrapyourselfinjoypodcast.com

• Visit Felice and the show notes: vintagehomeschoolmoms.com

• Explore more resources at Media Angels

Final Encouragement:
If you’ve been longing for more joy—or wondering how to share your faith in a natural, life-giving way—this episode is for you. Joy doesn’t require perfection, just presence… and sometimes a simple cup of coffee with friends.

Listen to Episode 514: “Cup of Joy” today and be encouraged.

Visit Karen’s website WrapYourselfInJoy.com

Please consider starting a Cup of JOY small group study accompanying this podcast. You would meet with friends for one hour weekly over coffee for eight weeks, and Karen will send you the free commentary and discussion materials each week. For more information and to sign up to start a Cup of JOY Women small group, go to WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.

The post Cup of Joy (New Year Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

The to-do list just keeps growing, but keeping kids close should be on the top of the list. In this episode, we will discuss easy ways to include the children and enjoy the holidays.

Thanks to our sponsor – Media Angels

Sometimes I feel like I’m preaching to the choir. You guys are amazing you are dedicated moms who love your kids! But in our busyness, we sometimes lose our focus. Our worst traits come to the forefront and we are overwhelmed by it all – and then life happens. Someone is sick or there is a life-situation to deal with … and never mind the budget! December is a time when sales crop up and everything looks too good to pass up.

Friends I want to encourage you in this episode of VHM to keep the focus of the holidays on the true meaning of the season and on your kids. It’s easy to say – I shouldn’t get so overwhelmed that but the reality is that all of us do at one point or another. Believe me, it happens to the best of us – even those of you who are super organized! It doesn’t have to be that way and something that happened to me recently showed me that all of the efforts are SO worth it. Especially those of us who are with our kids quite a bit as homeschool parents.

Keeping Kids Close

I received the best gift ever from a pastor of our church. When he comes for dinner the kids never left the table. He is entertaining with his Irish accent, and he is so full of stories. He can talk about engines with one of my sons, and then make us laugh with stories of his seminary days. But he is a man that loves the Lord and has the pulse of what is going on in our daily lives. So, back to the gift – the gift he gave me was a compliment about my kids. He talked about the evidence of faith in them, how they loved and honored the Lord. He also asked me why I thought about the reason why. My answer? Besides as an example, and believe me, my husband and I are fallen like the rest of the flock – the reason is the time we spent with our kids.

Our kids were with us through the thick of things, we worked around our home together, we homeschooled from K-12 – with some college credits for the youngest two. Our favorite vacation was our pop-up camper. We kept things simple and made the best of our time together. Sure, it was work but we enjoyed it! These are some of the best memories we have as a family.

Ask your children what their favorite activities are and you will be surprised. Often it is the things you think would be the least important, like reading books together as a family. One of my friends does this as a Christmas tradition at their home that they read a book together, even though her children are older.

We can keep our kids close with activities and also events. Whether you are decorating the tree or going out in the woods – something I’ve never done but would love to do, and chopping one down! Building a snowman, or going on long walks together. Watching a movie and talking about it afterward.

Fun things to do with the kids while taking turns telling each other favorite family memories:

1. Popcorn strings. Use a large needle and strong thread to make a popcorn string. You can decorate your inside tree or if you live in the south like I do, decorate an outdoor tree – the outdoor creatures will love you for it!
2. Make place cards for Christmas – if you downloaded the Christmas planner from the website (UltimateHomeschoolPodcastNetwork.com) you received a template for this. Or make your own.
3. Make handmade Christmas cards for family members. Be sure to write a Scripture verse.
4. Create a family “time capsule” – put in current pictures, memorabilia – a picture of a favorite toy or stuffed animal, etc. Each person can put in their own “favorites” card. For example favorite movies, favorite music or favorite books. Put it up in the closet and label it with the year. Take it out in a few years and look at what it contains.
5. Sit outside around a campfire or star gaze. Enjoy the outdoors (perhaps bundled together) with your family!

We can experience the joy of the holiday with our families and create those memories that will last the test of time. There is so much more joy and excitement about the coming of Christmas when we spend time with our children, and I know you do!

The post Merry Christmas Keeping Kids Close (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

hat do you do for that hard to buy for person? How about some great last minute Christmas gifts? Over the years I have a list of great things to help you without much planning or spending lots of money!

I have found that personal gifts are difficult to buy but my best buying tip is to think about things they may enjoy eating. One year we gave away mason jars filled with ingredients to make cookies. Layered looks nice, but baggies are more practical especially when mixing the ingredients. What about homemade bread? You can buy tiny loaf pans you can bake in that are festive and perfect for gifts. It is always fun to receive something that is personal

Have you checked out the calendar lately? Is it time to freak out? What do you do for that hard to buy for person? Don’t worry, I’ll share some things you can have on hand for the times you need something quick!

Thanks to our sponsor

Here are some other shows you may enjoy:

Best Christmas Ever

Christmas Memories

Last Minute Christmas Prep

Christmas Countdown

I love giving gifts. I love to give gifts that have value but are not ridiculously expensive. It depends on your individual budget, but many times we give gifts based on what we want to give rather than on what the person wants.

Last Minute Christmas Gifts …The key to giving gifts is threefold:

1. Know the person
2. Have a budget
3. Listen

This is great for your individual family and some of you have special traditions. You may have a special way you handle gifts within your own family. My daughter’s family (a household with eight children ranging in age from sixteen to three) select a name to gift one other person among the children. Another friend with a large family purchased large, plastic Christmas storage bags and filled it with wrapped gifts for each of her children. There was no scrambling to find gifts under the tree. She kept her gifts to under twenty dollars. Another friend purchased each child and Christmas ornament for each year. When they were adults, they took these with them. It was a wonderful keepsake.

Last Minute Christmas Gifts: Take a Trip!

Perhaps you take a trip instead of giving each other gifts. This is something I think that adults enjoy more than kids. If you do something like this, perhaps consider sharing a few inexpensive items with each other that are meaningful on Christmas. Having something on hand for gift-giving is not always possible, especially if you have a budget. But I promise these ideas won’t break the bank. I know we all love to purchase personal gifts but that isn’t always possible.

Here are some suggestions for inexpensive last-minute Christmas gifts:

1. Think about storage if you are short on space. Under the bed in a flat storage bin is one idea.
2. My favorite isles are the discount isles in stores such as Hobby Lobby. I picked up about ten nice kites for several dollars each. These are stored there until I needed them. I can also pick up craft books and art books at discounts.
3. Gift cards are great, and while impersonal, they are enjoyed by most. If you are on a budget you may consider restaurant gift cards. You can get them in smaller increments. Buy ones that have two or three restaurants on the card. By having these on hand you will be ready in case a friend “unexpectedly” brings over a gift and you have nothing in return. I have other ideas upcoming. I would buy gift cards to my family’s favorite restaurants and often you get a free $10 card or more with a larger purchase. You can use the gift card to pay for your meal and then gift the smaller increment.
4. Once again depending on how you celebrate the gift exchange, you may want to keep an ongoing list of age-appropriate gifts handy. Over the years our list has grown but crowd favorites are roller blades for the teen and under set, airsoft for the fifteen and older sets, and Rubik’s cube for eight and older. (Tell Mike’s story)
5. Some families like to give one main present and then have some filler gifts. For example, a pair of roller blades and the filler gifts are pads, a helmet, and a homemade gift card to the roller rink with a note that they can redeem to bring a friend after the holiday.

Last Minute Christmas Gifts Include:

For Kids:

1. A book on how to make paper airplanes with a small pack of colored heavyweight papers.
2. A craft or drawing book with a small gift card for supplies.
3. Watercolor pencils and a pad of blank paper
4. Yarn crafts: including yarn
5. Gift cards
6. Christmas Ornaments
7. Slingshot
8. Rubik’s cube (a crowd favorite)
9. Origami book and paper
10. Binoculars

For Adults

1. Plants
2. Decorative towels
3. Recipes: recipe card and cheap card holder that you decorate
4. Cutting boards
5. Gift cards
6. Christmas ornaments
7. Framed family pictures.
8. Homemade trail mix in a decorative mason jar.
9. Homemade bread such as pumpkin (you can bake these and freeze them).
10. Re-gift (be sure you write down the name of the person who gave you the gift!)

On Hand Gifts

Smaller gifts that I have on hand (when my children were little and now for the grandkids) are as follows:

1. Parachutes: family favorite and nice ones are about six dollars for three and made of cloth instead of plastic. (Kid favorite!)
2. Airplanes – These are the quick kind you can put together and fly
3. Glow sticks. Evening gift
4. Bubbles
5. Cracker Barrel novelty items such as puzzles and games.

One more last-minute favorite gift idea, especially for people who are difficult to buy, is a gift of food. Most people enjoy eating, so food is a favorite. One year we gave away mason jars filled with ingredients to make cookies. Layered looks nice, but baggies are more practical, especially when mixing the ingredients. What about homemade bread? You can buy tiny loaf pans you can bake in that are festive and perfect for gifts. There are many ready-made mixes that you can make at home as well if baking is not your thing. It is always fun to receive something personal with some extra thought behind it.

Well, there you have it! Gift ideas that won’t break the bank and will help you with those who are hard to buy for. Keeping to a budget this time of year may be difficult, but putting thought behind a gift, even if it is not lavish, is important.

Have a blessed Christmas, and I pray these ideas are helpful!

The post Last Minute Christmas Gifts (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Short Cuts – Hints & Holiday Tips by Felice Gerwitz

Discover tips for stress free holidays with careful planning and creative entertaining ideas that wow your guests every time.

How does Felice Gerwitz tirelessly entertain 20+ guests of all ages, use real dishes, cloth tablecloths & napkins with home-made napkin rings, and still remain sane after the last guests have left? With some careful planning, cooking ahead and getting some amazing deals and after holiday sales, Felice pulls off the Martha Steward look year after year.

Learn how to create a wish list and look for deals, bake ahead and freeze, enlist help from your family members and guests, make fresh flower centerpieces that look like you’ve slaved for hours and other tips that Felice has learned during the years. She enjoys baking and entertaining but most of all rejoicing in God and celebrating the special ties between family and friends.

Here is a handout along with a free printable to hang on your wall! Vintage Handouts Stress Free Holidays

Recommended Resources from Media Angels

Introducing the Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels – your ultimate toolkit for a joy-filled and organized holiday season! This 3-pack bundle includes three essential printables: the Christmas Planner, the Christmas Kids Activity Planner, and the Christmas Week Planner, each thoughtfully designed to elevate your festive preparations.

The post Holidays + Stress-free = Possible (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

What movies make it to your top ten movies for Christmas? I wonder if our lists are similar. In this podcast, I will share my favorite movies and how I use them to teach deeper truths. As my children say, “Mom can make anything into school!”

Hurry, our offer won’t last. Get our Advent Calendar, with Scripture verses and suggestions for notes from Mom and Dad all 24 days leading up to Christmas.

When you think of movies, you may have a particular type, mainly as Hallmark has monopolized the Christmas movie theme over the years. They have Christmas in July, Christmas countdown, and Christmas movies all day. But my list only contains two Hallmark movies, both oldies. There are different reasons we think of movies as favorites. One of them is while entertaining, they contain an element of truth.

You may enjoy these podcasts:

Christmas Final Touches

Last Minute Christmas Gifts

Characterization and acting are other important factors. As my children grew older, our movie list changed. When my first two children were little the staples were limited to It’s a Wonderful Life, the Charlie Brown Christmas, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, and Frosty the Snowman. Only one of those movies now makes it to my top ten.

Christmas Movie Personal Preference

If you asked my kids, they’d add Home Alone to the list. As a mom, I can not watch that movie. All I could focus on was that they left their kid behind. I panicked with the mom frantically trying to get home and irritated with the uncle who wanted to stay and enjoy Paris! My favorite part was the great scene at the end when the mom and son are reunited, and then everyone comes home. Also, Die Hard is not a Christmas movie for all teens and young adults, contrary to making it on many top ten lists!

So, what makes it to my top ten list?

1. It must have a heartfelt message.
2. The spirit of Christmas, or the true meaning of Christmas (which, as Christians, we know is Jesus Christ) permeates the film.
3. Family is essential, if not a central theme.
4. Giving of self for others.
5. Entertaining

As I share my top ten movies for Christmas, let me first share ones that did not make the list but are family favorites:

A Boyfriend for Christmas. We enjoy it for entertainment’s sake, but I am not a big fan of Santa Claus as “real” in any form…I know, don’t hate me. But we find it funny, so it is on our top watch list. It also has family as a central focus and good characterization.

I’ll Be Home For Christmas — sappy but funny. The kids see the problems cheaters get into, and the consequences, while funny, are serious for this young man. As the movie progresses, he changes for the better, and the children can see the growth.

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer — yes, another Santa movie, but who doesn’t love that the misfit toys get a home? The old movies focused on helping all those less fortunate without turning it into something ugly or politically correct. This movie shows that it can be done in a way we all embrace.

Top Ten Movies For Christmas Countdown:

10. Miracle of 34th Street  – yes, Santa is depicted as “real”, but I love the idea of family here, and the spirit of Christmas, love, and joy (which comes from Christ permeates this film.) I spoke to my children about the parallel of believing and the importance of prayer. The blessing, something the child wished for, is translated into prayers and perseverance.

9. The Christmas Card — okay, bear with me. This was before my son joined the Army, and still, our hearts went out to the soldier who was lost, craved a family, and found his dream come true in a card a random stranger sent. This has a happily-ever-after ending, and my children still quote parts of the movie. Here the emphasis is on the importance of spending time, even for strangers, and the benefits it brings to those in service.

8. The Bells of Saint Mary’s– a black-and-white film about the true meaning of Christmas and accepting God’s will in our lives.

7. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is classic CS Lewis and has an underlying theme of good vs. evil and the importance of wisdom and faith.

6. Holiday Inn  – a true old-time classic with singing and dancing. I grew up with a family that loved these movies.

5. White Christmas is another old movie about the strength of friendship and the deeper truth of the meaning of the season, especially as Christmas songs were sung and remain classics today.

4. Christmas Carol — I’m sure most of you have this on your list. The haves and have-nots are classic, but the brokenness and loneliness of many at this time of the year are portrayed well. The important lesson of being joyful even where there does not appear to be a reason for joy is shared well.

3. The Star — this movie was one of our network sponsors when it first came out, and while a cartoon and silly in many instances, this still shows the Holy Family’s trials and the animals’ heroic efforts in saving them. Surely it is a stretch of the Bible narrative, but it is well received by children with many lessons of good vs. evil.

2. The Fourth Wise Man – you may not have heard of this movie, but it is a tear-jerker. This is a fictional account of the magi who didn’t make it with the other three, yet the Lord used him in a mighty and powerful way. It culminates at the time of the crucifixion, yet I still consider this a Christmas movie for the older kids. Watch it first before showing it to younger children, although this movie should be on everyone’s list with the stuff they watch these days. It shows the extreme sacrifice does not go unrewarded.

1. The Nativity is my all-time favorite. So many scenes here bring to light the reality of what the Holy Family must have endured. You see the selflessness of Joseph, the trials of Mary, and the steadfast love of family. My favorite scene is an encounter with a poor shepherd on the way to Nazareth.

Ready to fire up the popcorn? One thing we did recently, thank you, son-in-law, Bill, for telling me about it. We took our extensive DVD collection and ripped them onto a Plex system. We can now stream our movies through our TV.  We place movies we have purchased, and so many DVDs now come with streaming. I’d rather have my collection in one place than use streaming services, and I can organize them on my computer by category.

I pray you have a blessed Christmas, and beginning with this collection and adding your own, I’m sure your focus will remain on the reason for the season! If I didn’t mention a favorite of yours please post your suggestions below.

The post Top Ten Movies For Christmas (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Here we go; the holidays are upon us, and now is the time to fine-tune that list and get to the last-minute planning. I have a sure-fire way to keep you on track, and I will share this method with you on today’s episode!

Thanks to our 10th birthday celebration sponsors. Check out our Homeschool Matters free eBook here

Catch these great podcast:

Last Minute Thanksgiving Treats

Great Gifts Kids Can Make

Thanksgiving Crafts 

Have you looked at the calendar yet? Do not stress out – repeat after me, “I am not stressed!” A quick “Dear Lord, help me!” goes a long way as well. No worries, I’ve got you covered. If you are a long-time subscriber to my ezine or have listened to this podcast over the years, you’ve heard me talk about my 4-Square Planner. I am attaching two forms to this episode in the show notes. So, if you want to print them out, you can.

Last-minute planning takes organization, and it is time to find it fast if that is not your gift. I use a method where I take a sheet of paper and divide it into four equal parts. They are not squares, more like oblong boxes. Then I write faith/ prayer, kids, homeschool, and household.

4-Square Planner – Blank

4 Square Planner – Filled Out Example

Quickly fill out this page, and you will have a thumbnail sketch of what needs to be accomplished this week. As I record this, we are fast approaching Thanksgiving, Christmas, and so on. This planner can be used daily or weekly. Personal use is permissible.

Now, here is the secret to last-minute holiday planning: it is okay to cut corners. I know making your favorite dip, covered strawberries, or that favorite pie is at the top of your list. But, this year, I give you permission to delegate where you can and to buy already prepared if needed. (Mashed potato story on-air.)

But I promised help, so here is what we will do. We’ll make a list using the 4-Square planner idea, then cut where we can.

Felice’s 4-Square Planner List:

Faith: 

• Pray first thing in the morning
• Ask the Lord to guide me
• Pray for discernment.

Kids:

• Postpone unnecessary activities
• Allow time for puzzles or board games
• Enlist the kid’s help
• Assign specific chores.

Homeschool 

• Finish assignments
• Put away school books and supplies
• Clean up the schoolroom or area

Household Cleaning!

• Pick up first clear up the clutter

Example of Last-Minute Planning:

If you are down to a few days before the holiday, the one place you can cut back is food. Or, you can assign it to others! This year, my brother offered to make a turkey and stuffing and bring it. Yay! That was super exciting to hear. Someone else is bringing some sides and making the rolls. In years past, I’ve done it all and was exhausted. If I make rolls, I make them ahead and freeze them about three weeks before an event. I try not to do anything last minute, but it has happened to the most organized or planned person.

Household Food

• Green bean casserole
• Mashed Potatoes – other
• Homemade rolls – other
• Roast (prep ahead)
• Turkey – other
• Stuffing – other
• Sweet potato casserole – other
• Cheesecake
• Apple pie
• Mini-pumpkin pies
• Dipped strawberries
• Turkey-shaped cookies – other

Does this help? I hope so! Having a quick list that you can scale back, cross out, or call and delegate makes it easier to manage the last-minute planning. No matter what the holiday or the season, there is always so much to do. I pray you have a blessed event, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even if you are listening to this at Easter time! It is always helpful to lean on a friend. Hope I’ve been here for you.

The post Last Minute Planning ~ For The Holidays (Thanksgiving Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

How can you move beyond dry dates and dull textbooks and make history a favorite subject in your homeschool? In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, Felice Gerwitz is joined by longtime friend and fellow homeschool mom Meredith Curtis to talk about teaching history in a way that sparks excitement and long-term retention—from the early years all the way through high school.

You’ll hear practical ideas for using biographies, co-ops, timelines, cooking, music, art, original documents, and a Christian worldview to bring both American and world history to life.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

History as “His Story”

• Why Felice sees history as God’s story unfolding through time

• The importance of teaching historic facts without revisionist or secular spin

• How a biblical, creationist worldview changes the way you approach history resources

Why Just Reading the Textbook Isn’t Enough

• Why most students won’t remember much from simply reading and answering end-of-chapter questions

• How Felice and Meredith both started with textbooks but quickly realized they needed more

• How to use a solid textbook as a jumping-off point for unit studies, hands-on work, and deeper discussion

Hands-On History in the Early Years

• Using biographies and picture books (even with teens!) to make historical figures feel real

• Simple ways to add fun:

  • Coloring pages or doodling during read-alouds for kids who focus better while their hands are busy

  • Simple crafts, skits, and pretend diaries written in the voice of a historical character

  • Themed days such as “Pioneer Day” or “Christmas in Colonial America”

• How Meredith’s family used cooking as history in their co-op:

  • Geography year: authentic foods from each country

  • American history: recipes from different eras (including an authentic turtle soup recipe!)

  • Ancient history: foods that would have been eaten in the ancient world

• Using Christmas unit studies tied to specific time periods and having your kids:

  • Make historically themed wrapping paper

  • Plan menus based on the era you’re studying

  • Bake cookies and foods that match the culture and time

What Is a Homeschool Co-op (and Do You Need One)?

• A clear, simple definition of a homeschool co-op:

  A group of three or more families learning together, with parents sharing teaching responsibilities.

• How Felice and Meredith have homeschooled:

  • Just their own family

  • With one other family over many years (which eventually grew into a church co-op)

  • With larger, more structured co-ops

• Examples of memorable co-op activities:

  • A medieval or colonial feast with costumes, bread-as-plates, eating with fingers, and “bones on the floor” to mimic the era

  • Weather stations and student “broadcasts”

  • Outdoor activities like jousting and historical games

Planning Your Week for History Success

• How Felice structured her week in the early years:

  • Half-year focus: American history first half, science second half—then later alternating by days instead

  • Monday & Wednesday – History

  • Tuesday & Thursday – Science

  • Friday – Catch-up and field trip day

• Why it’s okay to skip a day and then catch up with a synopsis instead of feeling “behind”

• How field trips bless both kids and moms with community and shared experiences

Timelines, Dates, and Maps: Pegs for Memory

• Using timelines in notebooks or all around the room so kids can “see” history across the ages

• Doing a giant floor-length timeline and assigning each child a century to fill with key events

• Marking history with Christ as the focal point:

  • Creation

  • Major biblical events (Noah, Abraham, David, Jesus)

  • Key turning points like the fall of Rome, the Battle of Hastings, Magna Carta, the Reformation, exploration, and more

  • Ending the timeline with “Jesus returns” to remind students that history has a beginning and an end

• Why Meredith has her students memorize a small set of crucial dates as “pegs” for everything else

• Using maps to:

  • Track explorers (Columbus, Balboa, Cabot, etc.) in different colors

  • Notice that cities and civilizations grow around water and fertile land

  • Connect geography to culture, trade, and war

Moving into Middle & High School: Going Deeper

• Keeping everyone in the same time period while assigning more advanced work (projects, papers, and readings) to older students

• Beginning to emphasize the “why” behind events:

  • Laws and changes in light of the U.S. Constitution

  • How different cultures’ worldviews shape their decisions, art, laws, and daily life

• Using original documents and primary sources:

  • Reading real accounts of events like the Salem witch trials instead of relying on modern commentary

  • Looking at historic speeches, letters, and newspaper articles

• Encouraging teens to evaluate current events through the lens of the Constitution and Scripture

Music, Art, Architecture, and Fashion in World History

• Exploring how philosophy, literature, and worldview show up in:

  • Architecture

  • Paintings and sculpture

  • Music styles (Gregorian chant, Renaissance, Romantic, etc.)

  • Clothing and everyday objects

• Comparing different periods:

  • Why Renaissance art is breathtaking but some students find Renaissance music hard to enjoy

  • How Romantic art, literature, music, and architecture all share a recognizable “feel”

• Introducing teens to Francis Schaeffer’s classic series on culture, art, and philosophy to see how ideas shape civilizations

Literature + History + Writing

• Pairing your history spine with:

  • American literature for U.S. history

  • British and world literature for world history

• Using classics like Anne of Green Gables and C.S. Lewis to:

  • Stretch vocabulary and appreciation for language

  • Practice worldview evaluation and discussion

• How Felice uses writing curriculums like WriteShop to strengthen high school writing in the context of history and literature studies

Creation vs. Evolution and Choosing Resources Wisely

• Why Felice had to set aside a secular world history textbook that started with “ancient man” and evolutionary assumptions

• Using creation science resources to compare claims and expose fallacies in evolutionary timelines

• Encouraging teens to think critically about:

  • Fossil evidence

  • Assumptions in secular history texts

  • How worldview drives the story we tell about the past

American History & Government Courses for Homeschoolers
Use code: VHM50 to save $50 off of the American History video class.

• Felice shares about the Media Angels American History and Government video classes:

  • Taught by AP-level instructor and award-winning professor Robert Woodrow Wilson

  • Recorded with a live audience

  • Heavy use of visuals, timelines, and “fabulous facts”

  • Students match key inventions, events, and people to the correct presidents and eras

• How these classes help:

  • Build a solid chronological framework

  • Encourage parent-led worldview discussion

  • Train students to evaluate political candidates and current issues using the Constitution

Field Trips, Local Museums, and Everyday Opportunities

• Using local history (like Edison’s museum in Fort Myers, FL, or Victorian homes and pioneer villages) to make the past feel close and real

• Finding “day trip” guidebooks for your state and exploring:

  • Hands-on museums

  • Historical homes

  • Small but meaningful local sites

• Why field trips are worth the effort—even if some destinations turn out a little “lame”—because your kids remember the experiences forever.

Resources Mentioned

(Always check the sites for current specials and updated offers.)

• Media Angels – Homeschool science, history, American history & government video classes

  • Website: MediaAngels.com

• Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast archive & show notes

  • Website: VintageHomeschoolMoms.com

• Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network – Home of Vintage Homeschool Moms and many more homeschool podcasts

  • Look for the Vintage Homeschool Moms and Finish Well shows

• Powerline Productions (Meredith Curtis) – History cookbooks and Christian history resources

  • American history and ancient history cookbooks with recipes, activities, and study guides

• Finish Well Podcast with Meredith Curtis – Encouraging teens and parents to live for Jesus and think biblically about life and culture

Stay Connected

• Host: Felice Gerwitz – author, publisher, and homeschool mom

  • Website: MediaAngels.com

• Guest: Meredith Curtis – pastor’s wife, worship leader, homeschool mom, and owner of Powerline Productions; host of the Finish Well podcast

Have a question about teaching history in your homeschool or ideas for future episodes? You can usually reply directly to Felice’s email newsletter or contact her through MediaAngels.com or the Vintage Homeschool Moms page on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network.

Happy history teaching!

RECOMMENDED BOOK LIST for Teaching History in Your Homeschool

TeachingHistory-VintageHomeschoolMoms Let’s Talk About Teaching History

with your co-hosts, Felice Gerwitz & Meredith Curtis

History is about a bunch of dead people and stuff that happened long ago or so I thought when I was a kid. As a homeschool parent I found that history is actually “HIS” story and when it is revealed we find so many wonderful lessons to learn. In this session you’ll hear some of the ways that both Meredith & Felice have taught history to their children from the zany to the classes Felice asked her brother-in-law to teach to homeschool kids!

Please give us a rating on iTunes – go to iTunes, find our show (Vintage Homeschool Moms – or type in Felice Gerwitz) and rate it! AND… use the social media buttons on this page to share the show with your friends.

World History Reading List  – All rights reserved Media Angels, Inc. 2014

TeachingHistory-VintageHomeschoolMoms Let’s Talk About Teaching History

with your co-hosts, Felice Gerwitz & Meredith Curtis

History is about a bunch of dead people and stuff that happened long ago or so I thought when I was a kid. As a homeschool parent I found that history is actually “HIS” story and when it is revealed we find so many wonderful lessons to learn. In this session you’ll hear some of the ways that both Meredith & Felice have taught history to their children from the zany to the classes Felice asked her brother-in-law to teach to homeschool kids!

Please give us a rating on iTunes – go to iTunes, find our show (Vintage Homeschool Moms – or type in Felice Gerwitz) and rate it! AND… use the social media buttons on this page to share the show with your friends.

World History Reading List  – All rights reserved Media Angels, Inc. 2025

FULL WORLD HISTORY READING LIST — CLICKABLE AMAZON* LINKS

SEPTEMBER

1. In the Days of Noah – Gloria Clanin
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=In+the+Days+of+Noah+Gloria+Clanin
2. Life in the Great Ice Age – Michael & Beverly Oard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life+in+the+Great+Ice+Age+Oard
3. The Mystery of the Ark – Paul Thomsen
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Mystery+of+the+Ark+Paul+Thomsen
4. The Lost Kingdom (Reg Danson Adventure #2) – Clint Kelly
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Lost+Kingdom+Clint+Kelly
5. Adam and His Kin: The Lost History of Their Lives and Times – Ruth Beechick
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Adam+and+His+Kin+Ruth+Beechick
6. Genesis: Finding Our Roots – Ruth Beechick
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Genesis+Finding+Our+Roots+Ruth+Beechick
7. Dinosaurs in God’s World Long Ago – Henrietta Gambill
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Dinosaurs+in+Gods+World+Long+Ago+Gambill
8. What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs? (DJ and Tracker John)
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=What+Really+Happened+to+the+Dinosaurs+DJ+Tracker+John
9. Priceless Jewel at the Well: The Diary of Rebekah’s Nursemaid
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Priceless+Jewel+at+the+Well+Rebekahs+Nursemaid
10. The Magic School Bus Shows and Tells: A Book About Archaeology
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Magic+School+Bus+Shows+and+Tells+Archaeology
11. Exploring Ancient Cities of the Bible
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Exploring+Ancient+Cities+of+the+Bible

OCTOBER

1. Tutankhamun – Robert Green
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Tutankhamun+Robert+Green
2. Tirzah – Lucille Travis
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Tirzah+Lucille+Travis
3. Mummies, Tombs, and Treasure: Secrets of Ancient Egypt – Lila Perl
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mummies+Tombs+and+Treasure+Lila+Perl
4. Miriam’s Cup: A Passover Story – Fran Manushkin
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Miriams+Cup+Fran+Manushkin
5. Learning About Passover – Barbara Soloff Levy
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Learning+About+Passover+Barbara+Soloff+Levy
6. Shadow Hawk – Andre Norton
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Shadow+Hawk+Andre+Norton
7. Adventures in Ancient Egypt – Linda Bailey
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Adventures+in+Ancient+Egypt+Linda+Bailey
8. The Golden Goblet – Eloise Jarvis McGraw
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Golden+Goblet+Eloise+Jarvis+McGraw
9. The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt – Elizabeth Payne
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Pharaohs+of+Ancient+Egypt+Elizabeth+Payne
10. The Riddle of the Rosetta Stone: Key to Ancient Egypt – James Giblin
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Riddle+of+the+Rosetta+Stone+James+Giblin
11. Mara, Daughter of the Nile – Eloise Jarvis McGraw
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mara+Daughter+of+the+Nile+McGraw
12. Mummies Made in Egypt – Aliki
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mummies+Made+in+Egypt+Aliki
13. Kids Discover: Ancient Egypt
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kids+Discover+Ancient+Egypt
14. The Peaceful Warrior: The Diary of Deborah’s Armor Bearer (Promised Land Diaries)
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Peaceful+Warrior+Promised+Land+Diaries
15. Hittite Warrior – Joanne Williamson
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hittite+Warrior+Joanne+Williamson
16. Journey for Tobiyah – Barbara Morgan
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Journey+for+Tobiyah+Barbara+Morgan
17. King Solomon’s Navy – Nora Benjamin Kubie
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=King+Solomons+Navy+Nora+Benjamin+Kubie
18. The Temple at Jerusalem – Jacqueline Morley
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Temple+at+Jerusalem+Jacqueline+Morley

NOVEMBER

1. The Usborne Story of Music – Simon Mundy
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Usborne+Story+of+Music+Simon+Mundy
2. The Usborne Story of Painting – Anthea Peppin
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Usborne+Story+of+Painting+Anthea+Peppin
3. The Usborne Book of Living Long Ago: Everyday Life Through the Ages – Felicity Brooks & Helen Edom
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Usborne+Book+of+Living+Long+Ago+Brooks+Edom
4. God King: A Story in the Days of King Hezekiah – Joanne Williamson
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=God+King+Joanne+Williamson
5. Aesop’s Fables for Children
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Aesops+Fables+for+Children
6. Hour of the Olympics (Magic Tree House #16) – Mary Pope Osborne
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hour+of+the+Olympics+Magic+Tree+House+16
7. The Seven Voyages of Sinbad (and Other Tales from the Arabian Nights) – retold by Gladys Davidson
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Seven+Voyages+of+Sinbad+Gladys+Davidson
8. King Solomon’s Mines (Puffin Classics) – H. Rider Haggard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=King+Solomons+Mines+Puffin+Classics

DECEMBER

1. The Odyssey for Boys and Girls – A.J. Church
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Odyssey+for+Boys+and+Girls+AJ+Church
2. Tanglewood Tales – Nathaniel Hawthorne
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Tanglewood+Tales+Nathaniel+Hawthorne
3. Famous Men of Greece – John Haaren & A.B. Poland
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Famous+Men+of+Greece+Haaren+Poland
4. The Librarian Who Measured the Earth – Kathryn Lasky
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Librarian+Who+Measured+the+Earth+Kathryn+Lasky
5. Usborne: The Greeks – Susan Peach & Anne Millard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Usborne+Greeks+Peach+Millard
6. Adventures in Ancient Greece – Linda Bailey
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Adventures+in+Ancient+Greece+Linda+Bailey
7. Cyrus the Persian – Sherman A. Nagel
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Cyrus+the+Persian+Sherman+Nagel
8. Shadow Spinner – Susan Fletcher
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Shadow+Spinner+Susan+Fletcher
9. Within the Palace Gates: The King’s Cupbearer – Anna P. Siviter
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Within+the+Palace+Gates+Kings+Cupbearer+Siviter
10. The Greek and Roman Eras (Journey Through History) – Carme Peris & Gloria/Oriol Verges
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Greek+and+Roman+Eras+Journey+Through+History
11. Hand Me Another Brick – Charles Swindoll
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hand+Me+Another+Brick+Swindoll
12. Arabian Nights: Tales from a Thousand and One Nights
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Arabian+Nights+Tales+from+a+Thousand+and+One+Nights

JANUARY

1. Cleopatra VII: Daughter of the Nile, Egypt, 57 B.C. (The Royal Diaries) – Kristiana Gregory
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Cleopatra+VII+Daughter+of+the+Nile+Kristiana+Gregory
2. About the History of the Calendar – A.E. Evenson
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=About+the+History+of+the+Calendar+AE+Evenson
3. Battle of Actium (Great Battles Through the Ages) – David Califf
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Battle+of+Actium+David+Califf
4. The Runaway – Patricia St. John
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Runaway+Patricia+St+John
5. Fountain of Life – Rebecca Martin
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Fountain+of+Life+Rebecca+Martin
6. Adventures in Ancient China – Linda Bailey
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Adventures+in+Ancient+China+Linda+Bailey
7. A Grain of Rice – Helena Clare Pittman
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=A+Grain+of+Rice+Helena+Clare+Pittman
8. Archimedes and the Door of Science – Jeanne Bendick
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Archimedes+and+the+Door+of+Science+Jeanne+Bendick
9. The Bronze Bow – Elizabeth George Speare
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Bronze+Bow+Elizabeth+George+Speare
10. Ben-Hur – Lew Wallace
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ben+Hur+Lew+Wallace
11. Titus: A Comrade of the Cross – Florence Morse Kingsley
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Titus+A+Comrade+of+the+Cross+Florence+Morse+Kingsley
12. Augustus Caesar’s World – Genevieve Foster
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Augustus+Caesars+World+Genevieve+Foster
13. Famous Men of Rome – John Haaren & A.B. Poland
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Famous+Men+of+Rome+Haaren+Poland
14. Rome and Romans (Usborne Time Traveler) – Heather Amery & Patricia Vanags
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Rome+and+Romans+Usborne+Time+Traveler
15. I and II Maccabees (Apocrypha)
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=I+and+II+Maccabees+Apocrypha
16. Life Stories of Men Who Shaped History – from Plutarch’s Lives
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life+Stories+Men+Who+Shaped+History+Plutarch
17. Pompeii…Buried Alive! – Edith Kunhardt
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Pompeii+Buried+Alive+Edith+Kunhardt
18. The Robe – Lloyd C. Douglas
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Robe+Lloyd+C+Douglas
19. Masada (Sieges That Changed the World) – Tim McNeese
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Masada+Tim+McNeese+Sieges+That+Changed+the+World

FEBRUARY

1. Devil’s Island – John Hagee
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Devils+Island+John+Hagee
2. Outcast – Rosemary Sutcliff
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Outcast+Rosemary+Sutcliff
3. See You Later, Gladiator (Time Warp Trio) – Jon Scieszka
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=See+You+Later+Gladiator+Jon+Scieszka
4. Detectives in Togas – Henry Winterfeld
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Detectives+in+Togas+Henry+Winterfeld
5. The Eagle (The Eagle of the Ninth) – Rosemary Sutcliff
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Eagle+of+the+Ninth+Rosemary+Sutcliff
6. The Story of Valentine – Wilma Pitchford Hays
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Story+of+Valentine+Wilma+Pitchford+Hays
7. Augustine, the Farmer’s Boy of Tagaste – P. de Zeeuw
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Augustine+Farmers+Boy+of+Tagaste+de+Zeeuw
8. The City of God – Augustine
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=City+of+God+Augustine
9. Ancient Rome: How It Affects You Today – Richard J. Maybury
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ancient+Rome+How+It+Affects+You+Today+Maybury
10. The Ides of April – Mary Ray
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ides+of+April+Mary+Ray
11. Beyond the Desert Gate – Mary Ray
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Beyond+the+Desert+Gate+Mary+Ray
12. Jesus Freaks: Martyrs – dc Talk
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Jesus+Freaks+Martyrs+dc+Talk
13. Foxe’s Book Of Martyrs – John Foxe
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Foxes+Book+of+Martyrs+John+Foxe
14. Saint George and the Dragon – retold by Margaret Hodges
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Saint+George+and+the+Dragon+Margaret+Hodges
15. Saint Patrick: Pioneer Missionary to Ireland – Michael McHugh
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Saint+Patrick+Pioneer+Missionary+to+Ireland+McHugh

MARCH

1. Anna of Byzantium – Tracy Barrett
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Anna+of+Byzantium+Tracy+Barrett
2. Famous Men of the Middle Ages – Haaren & Poland
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Famous+Men+of+the+Middle+Ages+Haaren+Poland
3. Augustine Came to Kent – Barbara Willard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Augustine+Came+to+Kent+Barbara+Willard
4. Beowulf
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Beowulf
5. The Shining Company – Rosemary Sutcliff
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Shining+Company+Rosemary+Sutcliff
6. Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Bedes+Ecclesiastical+History+of+the+English+People
7. The Big Wave – Pearl S. Buck
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Big+Wave+Pearl+S+Buck
8. Against the World: The Odyssey of Athanasius – Henry W. Coray
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Against+the+World+Odyssey+of+Athanasius+Coray
9. Saladin: Noble Prince of Islam – Diane Stanley
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Saladin+Noble+Prince+of+Islam+Diane+Stanley
10. The Story of Rolf and the Viking Bow – Allen French
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Story+of+Rolf+and+the+Viking+Bow+Allen+French
11. Le Morte D’Arthur – Sir Thomas Malory
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Le+Morte+DArthur+Malory
12. The Sword in the Tree – Clyde Robert Bulla
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Sword+in+the+Tree+Clyde+Robert+Bulla
13. The Book of Pastoral Rule (Pastoral Care) – St. Gregory the Great
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Book+of+Pastoral+Rule+Gregory+the+Great
14. The Song of Roland (epic poem)
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Song+of+Roland
15. A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court – Mark Twain
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Connecticut+Yankee+in+King+Arthurs+Court+Mark+Twain
16. Otto of the Silver Hand – Howard Pyle
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Otto+of+the+Silver+Hand+Howard+Pyle
17. Idylls of the King – Alfred Lord Tennyson
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Idylls+of+the+King+Tennyson
18. Camelot (script for the Broadway play) – A.J. Lerner
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Camelot+script+Alan+Jay+Lerner
19. Viking Raiders (Usborne Time Traveler) – Civardi, Graham-Campbell, Wingate
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Viking+Raiders+Usborne+Time+Traveler

APRIL

1. Famous Men of the Middle Ages – Haaren & Poland
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Famous+Men+of+the+Middle+Ages+Haaren+Poland
2. Son of Charlemagne – Barbara Willard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Son+of+Charlemagne+Barbara+Willard
3. The Canterbury Tales – Geoffrey Chaucer
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Canterbury+Tales+Geoffrey+Chaucer
4. A Chaucer Reader – edited by Charles W. Dunn
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=A+Chaucer+Reader+Charles+W+Dunn
5. Leif Eriksson: First Voyager to America – Katherine B. Shippen
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Leif+Eriksson+First+Voyager+to+America+Shippen
6. In His Name – Edward E. Hale
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=In+His+Name+Edward+E+Hale
7. Paula the Waldensian – Eva Lecomte
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Paula+the+Waldensian+Eva+Lecomte
8. Lost Baron: A Story of England in the Year 1200 – Allen French
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Lost+Baron+Allen+French
9. Macbeth – William Shakespeare
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Macbeth+Shakespeare
10. Hamlet – William Shakespeare
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hamlet+Shakespeare
11. El Cid – retold by Geraldine McCaughrean
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=El+Cid+Geraldine+McCaughrean
12. Don Quixote (Don Quijote) – Cervantes
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Don+Quixote+Cervantes
13. A Proud Taste for Scarlet and Miniver – E.L. Konigsburg
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Proud+Taste+for+Scarlet+and+Miniver+Konigsburg
14. The Hidden Treasure of Glaston – Eleanore M. Jewett
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hidden+Treasure+of+Glaston+Jewett
15. Castle – David Macaulay
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Castle+David+Macaulay
16. Cathedral – David Macaulay
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Cathedral+David+Macaulay
17. The Door in the Wall – Marguerite De Angeli
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Door+in+the+Wall+Marguerite+De+Angeli
18. The Midwife’s Apprentice – Karen Cushman
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Midwifes+Apprentice+Karen+Cushman
19. Knights and Castles (Usborne Time Traveler) – Judy Hindley
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Knights+and+Castles+Usborne+Judy+Hindley
20. The Striped Ships – Eloise McGraw
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Striped+Ships+Eloise+McGraw
21. The Third Crusade: Richard the Lionhearted vs Saladin (Great Battles Through the Ages) – Samuel Willard Crompton
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Third+Crusade+Richard+the+Lionhearted+Saladin+Crompton
22. The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood – Howard Pyle
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Merry+Adventures+of+Robin+Hood+Howard+Pyle
23. The King’s Shadow – Elizabeth Alder
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kings+Shadow+Elizabeth+Alder

MAY

1. Men of Iron – Howard Pyle
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Men+of+Iron+Howard+Pyle
2. If All the Swords in England: A Story of Thomas Becket – Barbara Willard
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=If+All+the+Swords+in+England+Barbara+Willard
3. Ivanhoe – Sir Walter Scott
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ivanhoe+Sir+Walter+Scott
4. Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde – Harold Lamb
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Genghis+Khan+and+the+Mongol+Horde+Harold+Lamb
5. A Morbid Taste for Bones (Brother Cadfael Chronicles) – Ellis Peters
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Morbid+Taste+for+Bones+Ellis+Peters
6. Adam of the Road – Elizabeth Janet Gray
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Adam+of+the+Road+Elizabeth+Janet+Gray
7. The Dragon and the Raven (The Days of King Alfred) – G.A. Henty
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Dragon+and+the+Raven+G+A+Henty
8. The Magna Charta – James Daugherty
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Magna+Charta+James+Daugherty
9. The Inferno of Dante: A New Verse Translation – Robert Pinsky
   https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Inferno+of+Dante+Robert+Pinsky
10. The Life and Words of St. Francis of Assisi – Ira Peck
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Life+and+Words+of+St+Francis+of+Assisi+Ira+Peck
11. In Freedom’s Cause: A Story of Wallace and Bruce – G.A. Henty
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=In+Freedoms+Cause+G+A+Henty
12. The Beggars’ Bible – Louise Vernon
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Beggars+Bible+Louise+Vernon
13. Ink on His Fingers – Louise A. Vernon
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ink+on+His+Fingers+Louise+Vernon
14. Morning Star of the Reformation – Andy Thomson
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Morning+Star+of+the+Reformation+Andy+Thomson
15. Henry V – William Shakespeare
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Henry+V+Shakespeare
16. Joan of Arc – Mark Twain
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Joan+of+Arc+Mark+Twain
17. The Pied Piper of Hamlin – Robert Browning
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Pied+Piper+of+Hamlin+Robert+Browning
18. The Trumpeter of Krakow – Eric Kelly
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Trumpeter+of+Krakow+Eric+Kelly
19. Constantinople (Sieges That Changed the World) – Tim McNeese
    https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Constantinople+Sieges+That+Changed+the+World+McNeese

*Some link in this post may earn me a small comission through the affiliate program of (Amazon). Please read our full policy here.

The post Taking the Mystery Out of Teaching History in Your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

With Felice Gerwitz | Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast

Thanksgiving is right around the corner—and if you’re short on time (and energy), don’t panic! In this episode, Felice shares her best-kept secrets for quick, easy, and budget-friendly treats that will wow your family and guests. From no-bake goodies to festive finger foods, these recipes are perfect for busy homeschool moms who still want to make the holiday special.

Listen now: Last-Minute Thanksgiving Treats – Episode 482 (Replay)
Shop books & gifts: Visit MediaAngels.com for wholesome, faith-filled reads like the Truth Seekers Mystery Series and A Few Minutes with God. Perfect for homeschoolers—and for gift-giving!

Planning Ahead (Even When You Didn’t!)

Sometimes, no matter how early we plan, life happens! Felice admits she’s no stranger to that “how did Thanksgiving get here so fast?!” feeling. Her advice? Sit down with a warm cup of tea (raspberry is her favorite) and make a list. Even a last-minute plan can turn into a joyful celebration when you keep it simple.

Last-Minute Thanksgiving Treats — The Easy Way

If your time is short and guests are many, these ideas will save the day:

1. Fruit Platters with Fluff

Mix pre-cut fruits and serve with “fruit fluff”:

• 8 oz cream cheese

• 1 jar marshmallow cream
  Blend until smooth and serve chilled — kids and adults love it!

2. Salty Pretzel Sandwiches

Layer mini pretzels and cheese slices, bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, and serve hot with mustard.

3. Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Dip

So simple and so good! Microwave 4 oz cream cheese topped with pepper jelly for about a minute. Serve warm with crackers.

4. Baked Gouda in Crescent Rolls

Wrap a small round of Gouda in crescent dough, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, and let cool before serving. Golden, gooey perfection!

5. Chocolate-Dipped Goodies

Dip strawberries, pretzels, or graham crackers in melted chocolate, place on wax paper, and chill until firm. Add white chocolate drizzle if you’re feeling fancy!

6. Simple Dips

Keep pantry staples like salsa, guacamole, or Knorr veggie dip mix on hand. Pair with pita chips or veggie sticks for a fast, crowd-pleasing option.

7. Mini Meatballs

Felice’s go-to freezer favorite! Bake ahead, freeze, and reheat as needed. She recommends Bobby Flay’s 3-meat blend recipe (beef, pork, veal).

8. Freezer Cake Rescue

Pull out small round cakes, top with whipped cream and fruit, and you’ve got an instant dessert that looks homemade.

Felice’s Final Tips

• Don’t be afraid to buy something pre-made — this is last-minute after all!

• Use disposable platters or easy-to-clean glass ones for quick cleanup.

• And most importantly — enlist help! Let guests bring a treat or appetizer so you can focus on enjoying time together.

Felice reminds us that holidays aren’t about perfection — they’re about people. So take a breath, pour another cup of tea, and celebrate the season of gratitude with a joyful heart.

Wishing You a Blessed Thanksgiving!

From our homeschool family to yours, may your Thanksgiving be full of laughter, love, and delicious treats.

Resources Mentioned:

• MediaAngels.com – Faith-filled books for your homeschool

• Truth Seekers Mystery Series

• A Few Minutes with God

The post Last-Minute Thanksgiving Treats for Busy Moms appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Thanksgiving Activities: Faith-Filled Homeschool Ideas for Gratitude

Welcome back to Vintage Homeschool Moms! As a homeschool mom myself for over 30 years, I’ve seen how incorporating faith elements into our homeschool day has helped strengthen our family bonds and draw us closer to God. I love unit studies, which essentially involve taking one idea and incorporating other subjects, such as reading, writing, history, and even science, into a cohesive learning experience. With Thanksgiving studies, the idea here is to focus on the character quality of thankfulness. You can incorporate history, such as reading and writing for older children, or using some read-aloud books. This podcast focuses on activities only.

Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, this show is all about practical tips, encouragement, and ideas you can use in your own homeschool journey. As I reflect on my homeschooling days, I am always glad I stayed the course. There were many times I felt that I wasn’t making an impact on my children’s lives, but then I would pray and ask the Lord to give me the strength. I found that when I was doing it on my own, I struggled, but when I trusted in God, the days went better.

If you have the chance, try to incorporate prayer into your homeschool day.

Even if it means a quick, “Lord, help me!” But, if you can, “Praise you, Jesus!” is more encouraging. You may not have the time for a deep dive into a Bible study or prayer meditation at the beginning of the day, and I always admired my friends who could get up at 5 am and spend time in prayer. But whatever works for your family (even if it is at 7, like my day started with a quick Bible reading and prayer time), I promise it will help.

Today, we’re discussing Thanksgiving unit studies and activities—perfect for this season of gratitude.

Now, before we begin, let’s briefly touch on the history. Thanksgiving, as we know it, has roots in harvest celebrations and times of giving thanks to God for His provisions. But in the homeschool world, there’s ongoing discussion about the “first” Thanksgiving—whether it’s more folklore, with embellished stories, or grounded in verifiable truth. Rather than getting tangled in debates, let’s focus on the heart of the holiday: a time to pause, reflect on God’s blessings, and cultivate thankfulness in our families. As Christians, we can draw from Scripture, like in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” That’s the foundation we’ll build on today—blending faith, nature walks, and family feasts to create meaningful unit studies that nurture our kids’ hearts and minds.

I’ve got 10 actionable ideas for you, all original and tailored for kindergarten through middle school ages.

These incorporate hands-on activities, crafts, and food ideas that emphasize how faith holds our families together, like the glue in a beautiful mosaic. We’ll weave in Scripture, prayer, and family discussions to show how God’s love is the cornerstone of our homes. Let’s make this Thanksgiving a time of spiritual growth and joyful togetherness!

Hands-On Activities for Faith and Gratitude in Homeschooling

First up, our hands-on activities. These are designed to get your kids moving, exploring, and connecting faith to everyday life.

Idea 1: Gratitude Nature Scavenger Hunt (Hands-On Activity)

Gather your family for a nature walk in your backyard, a local park, or even a neighborhood trail—God’s creation is everywhere! Before heading out, read Psalm 104:24 together: “How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Give each child a simple checklist (you can print or draw one). As I live in Florida, we are not blessed with changing leaves, but if you live up North, you can add things like “a leaf changing colors,” “a bird’s feather,” “a pine cone,” or “something that reminds you of God’s provision.” As you walk, encourage kids to collect items safely and discuss how each one points to God’s faithfulness in providing for us, just as He does for the birds and lilies in Matthew 6. Back home, create a family gratitude jar. I love repurposing mason jars. Write notes on what you’re thankful for and place them in the jar. You can pray a thanks for God’s provision, and select one to read one each day leading up to Thanksgiving. This builds family unity through shared wonder and reminds everyone that faith in God sustains us, no matter the season. I’ve done this before and can take about 45 minutes outdoors, plus discussion time—perfect for K-8th graders.

Idea 2: Family Faith Timeline Mapping (Hands-On Activity)

This one’s a wonderful way to highlight how faith weaves through your family structure. Start with a large roll of butcher paper or poster board stretched across the floor. I save those inserts that come in online orders. You know, those crushed up brown paper fillers that most of us are ready to recycle or throw away! Next time save them or give them to the kids to spread our and roll neatly until you have enough for this craft. Read Deuteronomy 6:6-9 as a family: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children…” Have your kids (you may need to help the little ones) draw a timeline of your family’s story—births, moves, answered prayers, or challenges overcome by God’s grace. Use markers, stickers, or write out key Bible verses to mark the special moments. Incorporate a short nature walk to collect small items like twigs, acorns or pinecones (we have tiny ones here) to glue on as symbols (e.g., a twig for growth in faith). Discuss how God’s hand has guided your family, strengthening bonds like a tree’s roots. End with a group prayer of thanks. This activity fosters deep conversations about faith’s role in family resilience and can span an afternoon, adaptable for all ages.

Idea 3: Blessing Chain Prayer Walk (Hands-On Activity)

Combine movement and prayer with this interactive chain. Cut strips of construction paper (about 1-2 inches wide) and head out on a family nature walk. As you stroll, stop at beautiful spots—a tree, a steam or pond, or a sunny patch—and have each child name a blessing from God, tying it to faith in family life (e.g., “I’m thankful for siblings who pray with me”). Write it on a strip with a Bible verse like Ephesians 4:2-3 about unity in the body of Christ. Back inside, loop the strips into a paper chain, adding one link per day until Thanksgiving. Hang it as a visual reminder during your family dinner. This reinforces how faith binds us together, like links in a chain, and encourages kids to see God’s presence in nature and home. Quick to prep, about 30-60 minutes total.

Simple Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids: Blending Faith and Creativity

Now, let’s move into crafts! I’ve got five ideas here, all simple, inexpensive, and hopefully will encourage faith and thanksgiving into your homes!

Idea 4: Faith-Filled Thankful Tree Craft

Create a tabletop thankful tree to symbolize family growth in Christ. Start with a nature walk to gather a sturdy branch (about 2-3 feet tall). Secure it in a pot with rocks or Plaster Paris for stability. Cut leaf shapes from colored paper (greens, oranges, reds for fall). Each day, family members write or draw something they’re thankful for on a leaf, adding a Scripture like Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… and be thankful.” Glue or tie the leaves to the branch. Discuss how, just as a tree needs roots (faith) to thrive, our families need Jesus as the foundation. This craft builds over a week or longer, promoting daily gratitude and family sharing—great for K-5th, with older kids helping design.

Idea 5: Prayer Jar Lantern Craft

Transform a mason jar into a glowing prayer lantern that lights up your family meals. On a nature walk, collect small leaves or for those of us who live in Florida I’ve used colored tissue paper. Back home use glue that dries clear and a brush to paste them onto the outside of a clean jar. Inside, place battery-operated tea lights. Cut slips of paper for family members to write prayers of thanks, folding in verses like Philippians 4:6 about presenting requests with thanksgiving. Drop them in the jar. During evening devotions, pull one out to pray together. This craft illustrates how faith illuminates our homes, fostering intimacy and trust in God as our family’s light. Simple for all ages, takes 20-30 minutes to assemble.

Idea 6: Scripture Wreath of Gratitude Craft

Make a wreath from a cardboard circle (cut from a box) to hang on your door, representing the circle of God’s endless love in family life. Go on a short nature walk for vines, twigs, or dried grasses to weave around the base (use hot glue). Add paper cutouts of hands (trace family members’) with written thanks and Bible verses like Psalm 100:4: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving.” Glue them on. As you assemble this wreath, discuss the ways that faith is the foundation of your family. Share how God encircles and protects each family member, and His love is permanent and enduring, like a wreath that symbolizes the circle of God’s love. Encourage your children to make the connection to faith. Ideal for middle schoolers to lead, this activity lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Idea 7: Blessing Banner Flag Craft

Use fabric or a large paper banner to drape over your table. Use whatever scraps you have handy or paper to cut into triangles. String the triangles together with yarn. On each, paint or write family blessings tied to faith (e.g., “God’s Provision” with Proverbs 10:22). Involve kids in stamping leaf prints using real leaves dipped in paint. Hang it up and use it as a prayer prompt during meals. This craft is an outward symbol of how faith is involved in your family’s life and unites each person to each other and to praise God. Takes about an hour or more and for all ages, K-8th.

Idea 8: Harvest Heart Ornaments Craft

Shape salt dough (2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup table salt, 1 tablespoon powdered alum, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for smoothness), 1 cup hot water (adjust as needed for consistency). If you don’t have alum there are other recipes that use flour, water and salt. Optional: Natural food coloring or essential oils for scent) into hearts, baking at 250°F for 2-3 hours. Before baking, press in nature finds from a walk—like seeds or tiny leaves. Once cooled, paint and add a ribbon loop. On the back, etch the date. Later you can look up thankful verses such as 1 Chronicles 16:34: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” Hang them on a garland or tree. Discuss how these hearts represent God’s love pumping through our family structure. This tactile craft builds patience and thankfulness, perfect for younger kids with supervision.

Family Feast Ideas: Thanksgiving Food with a Faith Focus

Finally, our food ideas for family feasts—these tie everything together with shared meals that celebrate God’s bounty.

Idea 9: Faithful Harvest Salad Bar (Food Idea)

Turn dinner into an interactive feast with a salad bar using fresh, seasonal ingredients from a nature-inspired walk (visit a farmer’s market if possible). Include greens, apples, nuts, and cheeses—symbols of God’s provision. As you prep, read James 1:17 about every good gift from above. Have kids chop (safely) and arrange the food. For little ones that may not like salad you can add other proteins as finger foods (sandwiches cut into triangles or other fun shapes). Pray before eating, thanking God for his provision. You can even incorporate something like this into your Thanksgiving mea!

Idea 10: Gratitude Bread Baking (Food Idea)

Bake a simple no-knead bread together, incorporating “gratitude kneads” (pun intended!). Look up a recipe online for this bread and let it rise overnight. Truthfully, I’ve never made it! I’m into the longer sourdough process with some shortcuts and lots of butter. Whatever your favorite bread recipe this is something the children enjoy making! While mixing, share stories of God’s faithfulness, like manna in Exodus. Shape into loaves, perhaps braiding for family unity. Bake at 450°F in a Dutch oven for 30 minutes. Serve with plenty of butter or fresh herbs and olive oil. During your meal, “break bread” and give thanks. Share Luke 22:19, remind the children of Christ’s sacrifice and the foundation of our faith. (If you are Catholic, relate this to the Eucharist.) Shared meals strengthen our faith and family bonds. Bread, especially served warm, is delicious!

I hope that at least one of these ideas will fill your homeschool leading up to your Thanksgiving celebration. No matter what time of year we should focus on teaching our children to be thankful. So many children are not thankful and have expectations that are “me” centered. I pray these activities can lead your family into meaningful dialogue. Remember, these aren’t just activities; they’re opportunities to instill that faith is the foundation of our families, drawing us closer to each other and to God. As we approach the holiday, let’s commit to giving thanks daily, regardless of our circumstances.

More Thanksgiving Inspiration from Vintage Homeschool Moms

If you’d like more inspiration, check out these related episodes from Vintage Homeschool Moms on ultimateradioshow.com:

• Thanksgiving Memory Book: https://ultimateradioshow.com/thanksgiving-memory-book/
• Giving Thanks ~ No Matter What The Season: https://ultimateradioshow.com/giving-thanks/
• Thanksgiving Kids Crafts: https://ultimateradioshow.com/thanksgiving-gifts-kids-crafts/
• 7 Festive Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Cultivate Gratitude: https://ultimateradioshow.com/7-fun-thanksgiving-traditions-to-cultivate-gratitude/
• Holiday Games: https://ultimateradioshow.com/holiday-games/

Thanks for tuning in. Until next time, keep homeschooling with heart and faith. God bless you and your families!

The post Faith-Filled Thanksgiving Activities for Your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Wondering how to fit electives, sports, and real-life experiences into your teen’s transcript—without losing your family’s mission (or your mind)?

In this episode, Felice Gerwitz, host of the Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast shares practical, faith-first ways to weave extracurriculars into high school for credit. From shadowing professionals and Toastmasters to ministry, sports, entrepreneurship, and even scuba, Felice shows how prayer, purpose, and planning turn interests into intentional education. You’ll also hear how Media Angels, Truth Seekers Mystery Series, and the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network were born from this same “follow the Lord + make it count” mindset.

What You’ll Learn

• Pray first, plan second: Why prayer frames every decision about electives and activities.

• Start with mission: How family core values and a simple mission statement guide what “counts.”

• Make it credit-worthy: Finding course codes, setting objectives, and documenting hours for legit high-school credit.

• Career exploration that matters: Job-shadowing (reporter, doctor, lawyer) to clarify direction—then transcript it.

• Communication confidence: Toastmasters, podcasting, and speaking as real credits for shy or reluctant teens.

• Service as a transcript line: Pro-life outreach, Habitat for Humanity, youth ministry, local missions—how to log it all.

• Sports & sanity: The surprising academic benefits (focus, time management, character) and navigating team politics.

• Entrepreneurship in high school: Microbusiness ideas (small engine repair, lawn equipment) and how teens price work.

• Research → writing → opportunities: The Truth Seekers fiction series led to archaeology research and a real dinosaur dig invite!

• Protect margin: Why unhurried time helps teens think, pray, and hear God’s call.

Quick Ideas You Can Use This Week

• Write or refresh your Family Mission Statement (include Scripture that anchors your “why”).

• Pick one interest and ask: “What standards/objectives would make this a course?” Then find the state course code (or build your own scope & sequence).

• Schedule one shadow day for your teen. Debrief and log hours.

• Join or start a youth Toastmasters/speech club—track speeches, roles, and evaluations for credit.

• Convert current service (church nursery, food pantry, roofing with Habitat, etc.) into a documented Service Learning credit.

Favorite Quotes

• “Prayer is the beginning and the end of everything we think, say, or do as a Christian.” —Felice

• “Don’t do activities just to be busy—make them serve the mission God gave your family.”

• “If the opportunity is from the Lord, He will provide a way.”

Mentioned in This Episode

• Media Angels – Creation science curriculum; writing/publishing resources; Truth Seekers Mystery Series.

• Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network – Free shows for homeschool families.

• Vintage Homeschool Moms – Felice’s show (find it on Apple Podcasts/Android apps).

• Current Issues & the Constitution – Civics through current events (Felice moderates with her brother-in-law).

• Micro Business for Teens (podcast/ideas) – Turning skills into income and elective credit.

• Toastmasters (youth/speech club) – Communication credit option.

• Habitat for Humanity – Local service that can count toward community service hours.

How to Award Credit for Electives (Cheat Sheet)

• Define the course: “Speech & Communication,” “Career Exploration,” “Service Learning,” “Photography,” “Sports Conditioning,” etc.

• Objectives: 4–6 clear outcomes (skills/knowledge).

• Hours: 120–150 hours = 1.0 credit; ~60–90 hours = 0.5 credit.

• Assessments/Evidence: Project list, reflection journals, supervisor signatures, portfolio (photos, audio files, logs).

• Description (for transcript): 1–2 sentences describing scope & outcomes.

Encourage Your Teen

• Try things, tell the truth about what you liked/didn’t, and keep moving. That clarity is progress.

• Protect thinking time—faith and calling grow in quiet.

Connect with Felice

• Website: MediaAngels.com

• Show: TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com

The post Make It Count: How to Turn Homeschool Extracurriculars into High School Credit appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

There is hope! Are you ready for time management that will help you to reclaim your day and feel good at the end? Is this too good to be true? No, it is a reality, and if I can do it, you can as well. How does it happen? Well, very easily with one sheet of paper and four squares. Today I will help you figure out the main issues that steal your time and the hope on how to reclaim it.

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath, a wonderful Math curriculum for the entire family of school-aged children. This one-stop shop has grades K-12; check it out. Homeschoolers can save 50%!

Let’s get our time management back!

Does your day lack focus? Are you overwhelmed with the shuffling of papers, trying to get school “done,” and keeping up with the household chores? You can see why there is such burnout among moms, especially moms who homeschool. Even at the beginning of the year! I have to say I struggled with this for many years, and it left me feeling tired, defeated, and like I wasn’t getting anything accomplished each day. I felt like a young mom with little children. If I kept everyone safe by the end of the day, it was a win!

However, I wanted so much more. Especially for those who are new to homeschooling or even if you are a pro, you need the help that comes from getting all of your ducks in a row. Let me cut to the chase here. I was out of time because my time was managing me instead of the other way around. What was interrupting my day? What’s getting in the way of time management?

Easy, three things:

1. Talking on the phone (substitute social media here and texting).
2. No set schedule for household chores.
3. Disobedient kids

I had a defeatist attitude and could not wait until my husband came home so I could dump all of my daily woes on him, and guess what? That didn’t work out too well. My husband ran his own business and often needed my help to do the payroll or help with management and the details of filing payroll taxes, filling out forms, and so much more.

Fast forward, and we raised five kids and have not one but three businesses that we run out of our homes successfully. How did this happen? Believe me, it was not overnight, but now I can share those tips and techniques with you, and these are even better than what I had in my toolbox at the time.

Rules are made to be broken, but sometimes you can look at them as good suggestions, so take heart as I share some quick ones with you.

1. Just because you get an idea, it does not mean you have to act on it right now. Write it down and look at it at lunchtime or after dinner, and plan for it. Quickly one thing I do not do, even with a business, is looking at emails in the morning – emails such the life and my day away from me. Unless I have planned for this, I don’t do it until after lunch. People who really need to get hold of me quickly know how to do this. Everything else can wait.
2. I learned my time wasters. See number one – but there were others. I let myself get sidetracked, and once I learned the keys to keeping myself on track, it worked.
3. Make a plan and stick to it – I know, for those of you kindred spirits that are spontaneous. But believe me, it works.
4. Every self-help book or how to get organized is not going to help you get organized if you refuse to do what it suggests (same with this broadcast)
5. Seek help when needed.

I think that is important to note that many times we think an issue is one problem when it is really something else. Another issue with time management is that we have false expectations or, perhaps, no expectations at all! So first, it is homework time. I am going to encourage you to stop this recording and write out your most pressing need and what you hope to accomplish. What is your main expectation? Is it a peaceful home? Does happiness that surpasses all understanding? Is it kids that get along, laundry washed, dried and folded, and put away in one day? Is it meals planned? What is that? What is important to you?

So the first thing to do is look at your expectations, hopes, and dreams and break them down into a day, week, month or even a year. Remember the old saying, “Rome wasn’t built in one day.” But I am going to add my Felice twist here –  “But the fires that destroyed Rome were set on purpose.”

What fires are you setting for yourself? I’ve looked at my expectations and goals and realized that they were so grandiose and my expectation so unattainable that I was setting myself up for failure. It wasn’t going to happen even with a household of full-time employees! So, let’s get realistic. I’m not going to tell you the platitudes I’ve read like, “make every minute count,” or “delegate,” or “make easy-to-serve meals.” This is a duh, duh, and double duh. We are talking about surviving the day here. But what I will tell you is that you need to use what you have on hand.

I’m an author, which I do believe most of you know, and years ago, my daughter wanted to write a novel. I told her, “Christina, I don’t know how to write a novel,” and she said, “Mom, we are homeschoolers. We will figure it out.”

Moms and Dads, if you are listening. You may or may not be homeschoolers – but if there is something you want to do, you can figure it out. The one novel turned out to be three and sold in catalogs such as Christian Book Distributors, currently on Amazon and my website, MediaAngels.com, and have been around the world. We figured it out.

Time management is what is important to you. The list usually looks like this:

1. Need to manage the kids.
2. Need to manage the home.
3. Need to teach school (for those who are homeschooling.)
4. Need time with my spouse.
5. Need to keep my sanity.

Kids always seem to be number one when they should not hold that revered position. As a Christian, the first thing that should be on the list is a time of prayer. I’ve talked about this before, but the days I did not wake up, grab a cup of coffee, my Bible and have a short prayer session with the Lord was the day that all heck broke loose.

So, we need to rearrange the list and have it look something like this.

1. Keep my sanity. Begin the day with God.
2. Time with my spouse – figure out when to have a meaningful conversation, spend time and date night even if it means to put the kids to bed and grabbing some popcorn and watching a movie at home.
3. Manage my home. What is pressing? Laundry? Food? Use your weekends, bulk cook, and freeze. Just like a copy machine is a blessing to every homeschool family, so is an upright or chest freezer.
4. Manage my kids. Mean what you say and say what you mean. Follow through. Practice good behavior. If this means having your kids repeat after you, do it. I have several audios on this topic, and I also have audios I have created for the kids. See the links below. Have your kids listen to them. Side note here – Tell your kids you are on the same side. Sometimes I think we are in a battle, and the kids need to know there is one leader, it is you as a parent, and the troops need to file in… if you do not have a set of consequences this is important to think about. Ahead of time.
5. School! Yes, this is last. My kids learned despite my beautifully created curriculum or lessons. Read, read, and read. If you want your kids to learn life lessons do it in books, if you want your kids to learn math get a curriculum. I have a series of character-quality free downloads I give away every month on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, you can sign up to get them and past sets are for sale on my website at MediaAngels.com. Why is this? Because prior to the 1960s, character was infused and morality in schools, families, and churches. Now, it is all revisionist and secular. Interestingly I read a quote recently from a past president that shocked me. In the words of John Adams: “Our Constitution is designed only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate for any others.”Friends, this is the key; we must bring morality and all that is good and holy into our homes. If that means restricting screen time, do it – if it means only watching good movies, get Pureflix. I realize this is a challenge for some of you, but I have faith in you. You can do it!

Lastly, the key here – how to do it how to get organized. Fast Track.

1. One week at a glance. Take a sheet of paper and draw a horizontal line and a vertical line. So, it has 4 squares. Faith, Kids, School Household. You can use different headings on each of these squares for whatever you want. This is an overall sketch of what you are going to do and accomplish. The weekly goals if you will. You will not get detailed with the kid’s schooling, other than maybe to put a time frame, or perhaps books you are going to read as a family, etc.
2. Square one: Faith you can add spouse there as well. But first, you need to get right with God. You need to be filled up before you can pour into others. My show – AFewMinutesWithGodPodcast.com
3. Square two: Kids – what are your overall goals – is there something in particular or one kid, in particular, that is the squeaky wheel that needs help. Whether it is academic or discipline. At a time of war they always went after the leader, so if there is one child that is leading the others astray begin there.
4. School. Once again the overarching here – do you have a field trip, are you going to do a science experiment, watch a specific video -put this on your list.
5. Household. When are you doing the laundry, prepare meals – you can have a start time, etc … list it here:

Whatever you use make it work for you! Make it your own. I really do believe you can figure this out and reclaim your time. Time management is you managing time and making an effort to not allow it to manage you!

Resources: Past Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcasts and Show notes to help you!

1. I have several past podcasts and if you look at the show notes page, you will see links to download a bunch of forms!
   1. Here is one on Homeschool Forms and another on
2. Last-minute Christmas prep – contains a 4-square planner
3. Running Your Home Like a CEO
4. Easy Way Planning link here

The post Time Management for Homeschool Parents: Finding Balance That Actually Works appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

This episode sponsored by CTC Math, True North Academy, and Math Mammoth in honor of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast’s 12th Birthday.

Demystifying Homeschool Research: Insights from Dr. Brian Ray

Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast Episode 570: Navigating Homeschool Research – From Hypothesis to Headlines

Homeschool parents often encounter various research studies on homeschooling, and it can be challenging to determine which ones are reliable and credible. This episode is useful for parents who follow homeschool academic outcomes, deal with legal challenges, or want to learn more about education based on evidence. It shows the hard work that goes into creating statistics and the excitement of learning new things. You will hear about how NHERI’s research helps protect family rights in education. It also explores why a watchful home setting can sometimes offer better safety and success than traditional schools. The discussion includes ways to review studies independently and how to turn your children’s questions into more in-depth explorations.

To get the full conversation, including the natural back-and-forth and key moments, visit vintagehomeschoolmom.com or open your favorite podcast app.

Spotlight on Dr. Brian Ray: Architect of Global Homeschool Insights

Dr. Brian Ray stands as a cornerstone in the homeschooling landscape, serving as president of NHERI (nheri.org) since co-founding it in 1990. A trailblazer with over 35 years of experience in home education studies, he has elevated the field from a fringe curiosity to a powerhouse of empirical evidence. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in science education from Oregon State University, an M.S. in zoology from Ohio University, and a B.S. in biology from the University of Puget Sound – qualifications that have fueled his transition from classroom teaching to research leadership.

Felice praises NHERI’s donor ethos: Funds target specific areas, such as survey recruitment or publication fees, with transparent updates on milestones – turning even modest contributions into tangible victories. For families researching homeschooling organizations or seeking ammunition against skeptics, nheri.org offers free resources, synopses of studies, and a newsletter brimming with fresh insights. It’s more than support; it’s stewardship for the movement’s future.

Explore Dr. Ray’s Profile and NHERI Resources | Sign Up for NHERI Newsletter

Chasing Certainties: The Core of Scientific Inquiry in Homeschooling

People sometimes talk about “your truth,” but Dr. Ray and Felice focus on quantitative truth, which comes from evidence that can be measured and observed, not just personal ideas. They refer to Webster’s 1828 dictionary, where “science” means “certain knowledge” and refers to understanding facts through the mind. This approach is based on a biblical view that there is an objective reality. If you deny such truth, conversations can devolve into mere speculation, leading to confusion in life.

This way of thinking started Dr. Ray’s interest early on. He was writing notes in kindergarten and reading encyclopedias, which shows the natural tendency that God gives some people. It is like children who take things apart to see how they work or who think deeply about sounds in words. Dr. Ray says homeschooling helps develop these skills without needing official rules. For example, why do parents need a state license to teach the sound of the letter “a” in “apple”? The success of many homeschool families shows that parents’ natural abilities are often enough.

NHERI selects research topics based on current events.

Sometimes, they select new areas to study, and at other times, they respond to current events in the news. One example is the notion that parents need certification to teach effectively, but data show that this is not the case. Another is stories about abuse, where one bad example makes people think all homeschooling is risky. This leads to calls for more government control. Dr. Ray’s study on abuse took 15 years to develop. It asked if homeschooling really leads to more harm. For anyone interested in research, whether young or old, it starts with a question and a hypothesis, like guessing that abuse rates in homeschooling are the same as in other schools. Then you plan how to test it. (More on air.)

Dr. Ray used to teach research methods in college, and he enjoys explaining it simply. This is helpful for parents who want to do research projects with their children. Felice points out that some states are adding more rules, so donating to groups like HSLDA might be needed. Research like this plays a key role in protecting homeschool freedoms.

The Hidden Grind: Crafting Unassailable Homeschool Studies

Every time you see a headline that says “study shows,” there is a lot of work behind it. Quantitative research involves statistics, samples, and data analysis to determine meaning. It requires figuring out the best way to do things. Surveying children about abuse is hard because of ethical concerns and getting permission from parents. Instead, they asked adults about their experiences growing up, tracking their school history from kindergarten to grade 12. To be considered truly homeschooled, someone must have been homeschooled for at least eight years.

A key part is getting a representative sample, which means avoiding bias, such as only choosing families that seem perfect. There is no complete list of homeschoolers, so they used trusted companies that track people by age, ethnicity, and other factors. This costs tens of thousands of dollars. They aimed for 1,000 to 1,200 people to achieve sufficient statistical power, which helps identify real differences. This is similar to national polls. If you examine subgroups such as income or family size, you need even more people.

The Homeschool Survey: The Source of Data

The survey had more than 50 questions. It began with basic information, such as age and ethnicity, and then asked about abuse using definitions from federal and state laws. This avoided arguments about things like spanking. They tested the questions first in a pilot study to ensure they were reliable, much like a scale that gives the same weight each time. Dr. Ray thanks his co-author, Dr. Danish Shakil, for handling the complex math to find patterns.

After that, they wrote the paper, made changes based on feedback, and had it published in a peer-reviewed journal, such as the Journal of School Choice. It took years and hundreds of hours. Felice, who has judged science fairs and written a book on them, sees similarities. Both need controls, making informed guesses about outcomes, and being open if the results differ from expectations. This openness helps people distinguish between credible and untrustworthy sources, enabling them to identify good research from bad.

Revelations from the Data: Abuse Realities and Homeschool’s Edge

The abuse study yielded two main findings following all the work. First, there was no big difference in rates of abuse or neglect between people who were homeschooled and those who went to public or private schools. This was after adjusting for factors such as family income, ethnicity, the number of children, and parents’ education. It means the risks are about the same, which contradicts the notion that homeschooling is especially hazardous. Not everyone was pleased, because some wanted homeschooling to look perfect and schools to look bad.

Second, for the homeschooled people who did experience abuse, it usually happened outside the home, like at sports, group events, or co-ops, not from family. Abuse is always sad, but this illustrates how having at least one attentive parent at home can be beneficial. When you consider all the studies together, which are listed on nheri.org, homeschooling appears to offer a slight advantage in protection due to the close supervision.

Dr. Ray’s work is well-known. His review of homeschool research is the most-read article in the Journal of School Choice, having garnered over 22 years of views, with more than 70,000 views. Three of the top 11 articles in that journal are his, including this one on demographics, which ranks number two. It gets mentioned in the news and other journals. This is just one study, but it is well-conducted and calls for further research.

To learn more, visit NHERI’s site for summaries. They link to the full articles, which helps support their work.

Key Study: Demographics and Abuse in Home Education

Nurturing Mini-Investigators: Research as Homeschool Superpower

One strength of homeschooling is the ability to let children explore freely. Felice took her kids to state science fairs to see advanced projects. One standout was a girl’s study on whether boys handle pain better than girls. (More on air.)

Dr. Ray likes this because it resembles real research but is simpler. Children can formulate a hypothesis based on other studies, ask questions, and collect data for their own enjoyment. Parents can count it toward subjects like language arts for writing, math for numbers, and science for the method. It mixes learning areas well.

NHERI helps with this mindset by answering questions from parents or leaders. They receive emails suggesting new studies, and Dr. Ray might request funding or share existing information. They support groups like FPEA in Florida or CHEA in California with data to fight bad laws. In times of policy changes, this research helps defend homeschooling.

Felice says terms like “representative samples” and “statistical controls” make reading research easier. Seeing the effort involved makes you value other researchers more.

Bolstering the Battle: NHERI’s Call to Collective Action

With more legal issues around homeschooling, NHERI provides important facts to groups in places like Florida, Wyoming, and Oregon. Their team provides guidance to help navigate excessive regulation. They focus on truth and honesty to overcome challenges.

Felice suggests visiting nheri.org to read articles and consider making a donation. She likes how they explain where money goes and report on results. Your support helps keep studies ongoing that support homeschool rights.

Contribute to NHERI: Empower Research Today

Final Thoughts: Truth as the Foundation of Homeschooling

Dr. Ray’s story, from early notes to influencing laws, shows how research reveals that parents are great teachers, homes are safe places, and curiosity drives learning. The episode covers the steps of research, what the data means, and how to encourage children.

Hear the full talk, complete with its real moments, on Vintage Homeschool Moms. It offers more on daily routines, curricula with a faith-based approach, and strong family education. Subscribe to keep up.

What is the most unusual question your child has explored? Share in the comments.

God bless your homeschool efforts. See you next time.

Subscribe for More Inspiration: Spotify | Apple | vintagehomeschoolmom.com

SEO Keywords: homeschool research studies, Dr. Brian Ray NHERI, abuse and neglect in homeschooling, quantitative homeschool research, homeschool science fair projects, homeschool academic outcomes, NHERI research findings, Felice Gerwitz podcast

Here are some podcasts you might enjoy:

• Episode 135: Winning Science Fair Projects
• Episode 559: Homeschooling Uncovered: Research, Funding, and Surprising Facts!
• Episode 569: Unlocking Homeschool Grad Success: What Research Reveals About Thriving Adult Homeschoolers

The post From Hypothesis to Headlines: How Homeschool Research Shapes the Future of Education appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms, the podcast where we believe homeschooling can be a blessing, not a battleground—no rainbows or perfectly run household promises, just real talk. I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz—yes, the mom who’s been there with coffee stains on my shirt and a prayer on my lips. Today, we’re diving into peaceful homeschooling because, parents, God didn’t call us to this to feel like we’re without a rudder in a storm. So, grab your coffee—or your Bible—and talk about five tips to bring some calm into your homeschool life. Spoiler alert: No bribing the kids with chocolate is required. Let’s get started!

 Download the 12th Birthday Treasure Chest!

Find a gold nuggest in our kick off post.

We’re celebrating 12 years of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network with a gift just for you! Download our Podcast Gold Treasure Chest — a free bundle filled with homeschool resources, printables, and special offers from our incredible partners. Plus, when you download, you’re automatically entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card! 

No purchase necessary — this is a free resource made possible by our generous sponsors: Media Angels, True North Academy, CTC Math, Math Mammon, BaseCampEd, Powerline Productions, Funda Funda Academy, Raising Real Men, 7 Sisters Homeschool, and Galaxy Grammar Books.

Peaceful Homeschooling ~ Episode 553

Friends, I know that your life is hectic. After homeschooling for many years, I finally got into a rhythm, but each year, something always changed. I think part of the reason we have stressful days is because we have expectations we can’t keep. In this session, we are going to look at some of the mistakes I’ve made through the years, and hopefully, you’ll find something you can use in your homeschool.

Tip #1: Set a Rhythm, Not a Bootcamp Schedule.

You’ve seen those Pinterest timetables—”8:00 AM: Memorize Latin verbs.” But here’s the truth: Kids aren’t robots, and neither are you. A rhythm is like a schedule with grace built in—it flows. Maybe mornings are for math and Bible reading, afternoons for crafts, or staring out the window praising God for His creation. Proverbs 16:9 says, “The human mind plans the way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Don’t turn your home into a drill sergeant’s dream. Maybe one day is pajamas day; that’s not a crisis—that’s a gift of flexibility. Less stress means more room for God’s peace.

Tip #2: Create a Calming Space—for Everyone.

You need a spot where chaos takes a backseat. For the kids, maybe a beanbag with a Bible storybook and a ‘No Sibling Zone’ sign. For you? The kitchen table with a candle and a quick prayer—because locking the bathroom door isn’t always an option. Make these spaces holy ground. Tell the kids, ‘This is where we go to find quiet and hear God’s voice.” Bonus points for a cross on the wall—because nothing says peace like a reminder of Jesus’ love.

Tip #3: Embrace the Idea of Humor.

Homeschooling isn’t about perfection—it’s about growing in faith, relationships, and knowledge, and that’s messy. When your 8-year-old spills paint on the dog, or your teenager writes an essay titled “Why Fractions Are a Test of Faith,” laugh it off. Say, “Okay, okay, let’s try that again!” Humor is a gift from God. If you can’t laugh, you’re missing the joy. Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” So, lean into the mess. The dog’s blue? Call it a testimony of creativity.”

Tip #4: Limit the Screen-Time Battles.

Devices can be a blessing—think Bible apps, learning games, and YouTube. But they’re also tantrum traps when it’s time to unplug. Set clear boundaries upfront: We watch one episode of The Creation Series; then it’s math time. And be firm. Don’t negotiate. Kids will try your patience. If they’re begging for more video games, smile and remind them that it’s easier to listen and move on. When they grumble, just know they will survive—God’s grace covers that too. I remind them at another time that when they argue, they don’t win, so it is easier to be obedient, and everyone is happier.

Finally, Tip #5: Celebrate the Small Wins—With Snacks.

Peace isn’t just avoiding fights; it’s rejoicing in progress. Did your kid finish a worksheet without tears? Have a mini praise party. Did you make it through a day without shouting, “Lord, give me strength!?” Break out the cookies. Colossians 3:17 says, “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Rewards keep us going. Homeschooling is hard—capital H Hard—but you’re not just teaching math; you’re raising disciples. That’s worth celebrating with a snack and a ‘Thank you, Jesus.’”

So, there you have it, friends: Five tips to make your homeschool less like a wrestling match and more like a sanctuary.

Podcast Gold: Set a rhythm, carve out calm spaces, use humor and laugh, tame the screens, and celebrate with snacks. You’ve got this—because God’s got you, even on days when it feels like you’ve accomplished nothing. Thanks for tuning in and sharing this podcast with a friend, your co-op or homeschool group, or a Facebook group. Stay faithful, parents! Take care, and God bless!

The post Peaceful Homeschooling: 5 Simple Ways to Create a Calm, Christ-Centered Home appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Today, we discuss unlocking homeschool grad success. Imagine this: You’ve poured your heart, late nights, and endless patience into homeschooling your kids. But as they step into adulthood, you wonder—did it really work?

Unlocking Homeschool Grad Success: What Research Reveals About Thriving Adult Homeschoolers ~ Episode 569

Homeschool Grad Success, host Felice Gerwitz, sits down with homeschool research pioneer Dr. Brian Ray from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI). Together, they dive into decades of studies on adult homeschoolers, uncovering stats that prove homeschooling doesn’t just build bright minds, it forges resilient, faith-filled lives. If you’re a homeschool parent questioning your ability to homeschool or a homeschool grad reflecting on your journey, this is your roadmap to real success. Stick around for eye-opening insights, personal stories, and encouragement that homeschool outcomes are more than test scores. Here you will learn about legacies of love, values, and victory.

Whether you’re searching for “homeschool grad success stories,” “research on adult homeschoolers,” or “homeschooling outcomes statistics,” this episode breakdown has you covered. Let’s explore how homeschooling compares, why relationships are more important than rote learning, and why it’s never too late to strengthen family bonds.

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Meet Dr. Brian Ray: 40+ Years Championing Homeschool Research

Dr. Brian Ray isn’t just a name in homeschool circles, he’s the man behind NHERI.org, a nonprofit. He is dedicated to rigorous, unbiased homeschool research. For over four decades, since the homeschooling revival of the 1980s, Dr. Ray has been examining what makes home education effective. He launched the Homeschool Researcher journal back then (it’s still publishing today!) and co-founded NHERI in 1990. As a former university professor, he’s authored countless studies, media appearances, and resources that cut through the noise.

But Dr. Ray’s not all stats and spreadsheets. Living on a “gentleman’s farm” near Salem, Oregon, with his wife, Betsy. They have eight grown kids and many grandkids! Dr. Ray describes their spot as a slice of pre-Fall Eden (minus the occasional 5-degree chill, as Felice shares about her sunny Southern life). Dr. Ray’s days blend research with real-world joys: writing, hunting, adventuring, and fostering family ties.

Felice, a 32-year homeschool veteran with five thriving adult kids, discusses NHERI’s transparency. “I donate because they use funds responsibly,” she shares. Dr. Ray’s emails detail specific needs, such as peer-review costs, and celebrate milestones, making even a $5 gift meaningful. It’s a model of stewardship that builds trust in the homeschool community. For parents eyeing “homeschool research organizations” or “supporting homeschool studies,” NHERI is a gold standard. Check them out at NHERI.org for free reports, donor updates, and ways to fuel the mission.

From Mission to Milestone: Why Families Choose—and Stick with—Homeschooling

Homeschooling isn’t a hobby; it’s a calling. Felice started homeschooling in 1986 after teaching in the public schools left her disillusioned. As a young teacher dreaming of revolutionizing education, she clashed with bureaucracy. “The principal said, ‘Stop rocking the boat; I’m retiring!'” she laughs. Marriage and motherhood shifted her path, but after a year of preschool for her kids, God nudged her: This was her mission. No looking back until 2018, when her youngest graduated.

Dr. Ray’s story echoes that conviction. With their oldest nearing school age, he and Betsy couldn’t square institutional schooling with their biblical worldview. “We couldn’t find a verse saying, ‘Send them away to be taught,'” he explains. It clicked: Why stop “homeschooling” at age five when parents educate from birth (or even the womb)? He flips the script on skeptics: “Why did you decide to stop homeschooling?” It’s a gut-punch question that exposes societal inertia. On a recent flight, a businessman admitted, “Because everyone else does.” No defensiveness, just revelation.

For both, commitment was non-negotiable. Felice teases her husband about her “gold watch” after 32 years; he surprised her with flowers instead. Ups and downs? Sure, Felice threatened the kids that they’d be on the next school bus to school if they didn’t focus on their schoolwork during tough days. But homeschooling is viewed as a divine mission, like a rock-solid marriage (Felice’s at 46 years!), which made perseverance possible. Dr. Ray agreed. Once the homeschool passion ignited, doubts vanished. Their eight kids? All grown, all homeschooled, all testaments to God’s glory.

This resonates for “long-term homeschooling benefits” seekers: It’s not easy, but when passion fuels the fire, families flourish. Felice’s kids? (Listen for details on air.) Above-and-beyond achievers! Homeschooling gives kids options to explore their own ideas, passions, and wants.

The Data Doesn’t Lie: Quantifying Homeschool Grad Success

So, does homeschooling deliver? Dr. Ray’s research says yes—across academics, behaviors, and beliefs. Starting with the basics: Quantitative metrics like SAT/ACT scores, college GPAs, and completion rates? Homeschool grads outperform public and private school peers on average. Publishers once highlighted this; now? We don’t hear much about it in the news, perhaps because it spotlights homeschool wins.)

Suicidal ideation? Lower. Substance abuse? Minimal. These “worldly measures” affirm homeschooling‘s edge, but Dr. Ray pushes deeper: What about morals and values, the heart of many families’ “why”?

Enter the Gen 2 Study (free at NHERI.org). This is a landmark look at 18- to 38-year-old adults. Funded for a rare representative sample, it tracked schooling history (homeschool, public, private Christian/non-Christian years), family size, religious attendance, and parent-teen relationships. Outputs? Christian orthodoxy (core beliefs like God’s existence), behaviors (honesty, fidelity), life satisfaction, civic engagement, and belief alignment with parents.

The Verdict

The verdict? Eye-popping correlations:

• Public School Years: All negatives. More exposure, weaker faith, and behaviors, as well as lower satisfaction.
• Private Non-Christian Schools: Mostly negatives across the board.
• Christian Schools: Surprisingly, there are more negatives, except for the boost in civic involvement. (Ouch for some expectations of paying more money for a school that encourages faith!)
• Homeschool Years: All positives. Deeper orthodoxy, stronger behaviors, higher satisfaction, and closer parental belief matches. Civic engagement? Neutral, but everything else soared.

Church attendance played a pivotal role in achieving good outcomes. Early and teen years correlated positively across metrics. But the powerhouse? Parent-teen relationships. Stronger bonds with mom and dad in adolescence predicted the most positive outcomes—outranking even homeschool duration.

Family Values

“This isn’t just a homeschool study—it’s a family study,” Dr. Ray marvels. For “homeschool values transmission research” fans, it’s gold: Homeschooling fosters worldview retention like nothing else. Not every grad’s a saint (perfection’s not the goal), but averages show thriving adults who love God, obey laws, build families, and bless communities. Rock stars? Optional. Good neighbors? Guaranteed.

Critics might nitpick, but Dr. Ray spotlights the 25-year-old “Mismeasure of Homeschooling” by Dr. Gregory Slezak, urging focus beyond test scores to philosophical goals. And for balance? The recent Cardus Education Survey (Canada-based think tank) by Dr. Albert Cheng. It notes that homeschool grads might earn less or engage less civically—but long-term homeschoolers (those who have completed most or all of their K-12 years) tend to exhibit robust faith, family values, and a strong work ethic. Short/medium-term? Less so. Household income dips? Often because they’re prioritizing kids (more grandkids per age group!). This is subtle, but profound for “long-term homeschool outcomes.”

Dr. Ray’s hunch (opinion, not data): Homeschoolers skew entrepreneurial, independent, voracious readers—traits tough to quantify but evident in anecdotes as does Gerwitz. (Listen on air)

Fuel for the Fire: Encouragement for Weary Homeschool Parents

Feeling the pinch? Dr. Ray and Felice get it—32 and 40+ years don’t lie. Success isn’t a paycheck; it’s a legacy. Brainstorm “homeschool grad success qualities,” and you’d land on Dr. Ray’s list: Amiability, hard work, relationship-savvy, God-honoring, family-valuing, idea-open. Add college prowess if that’s your jam, but thriving = impact.

Relationships are the secret sauce. Felice shares a book she published through her Media Angels, Inc. company, “Secret Code Time.” The book emphasizes the importance of communication between parents and children. The aim is for judgment-free conversations. A time for parents to just listen. She shared how it unlocked her quiet son’s ability to discuss with her what was on his heart. It allows respect to flow both ways—parents first, modeling.

Dr. Ray’s hacks? Radio-off car rides to hardware stores. Felice’s hubby? Late-night room hangs (even if exhausted). Teens spill when you show up.

Not perfect parents? Join the club. Dr. Ray admits to his non-stellar moments, but persistence pays off. If bonds frayed, start now: Apologize, listen, invest. It’s never too late—even post-grad. The enemy targets families; don’t let him win.

Homeschooling’s rise proves doubters wrong. Thirty years ago, outcomes were uncharted. Today? Affirmation galore. Dr. Jay Wile (Apologia science pioneer, Dr. Ray’s pal) spotlights grad feats often on Facebook—phenomenal by worldly metrics. Felice’s circle? Curriculum creators hearing “You changed my life” years later. For “Is homeschooling worth it?” queriers: Yes. A good citizen who loves the Lord? Mission accomplished.

Carry on, mamas. Your “gold watch” is those proud glances from kids who’ve conquered.

Wrapping Up: Your Next Steps in Homeschool Grad Success

Dr. Ray’s message? Homeschooling works—academically, spiritually, relationally. Don’t quit; refine. Tune into the full episode at VintageHomeschoolMoms.com for deep dives, and real information you can use!

Links: NHERI.org (Gen 2 Study, Cardus summary).

Editor’s Note:
We are grateful for Dr. Ray’s wisdom, and there another view upcoming soon!

What’s your homeschool win? Share in comments. For more on “adult homeschooler success,” “homeschool research stats,” or “faith-based homeschool outcomes,” subscribe to Vintage Homeschool Moms. You’ve got this—because He does.

Additional Shows You May Enjoy:

The post Success Unlocking Success: What Research Reveals About Homeschool Graduates appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Curriculum Confessions – What Worked and What Flopped ~  Episode 568

Why the Right Homeschool Curriculum Matters

Welcome back to Vintage Homeschool Moms! I’m Felice Gerwitz, your host and a homeschool mom of 32 years. I know, I sound way younger! (I hope you think that!) Listen, I’ve learned so much through trial, error, and some amazing wins. Today, we’re talking Curriculum Confessions: What worked and what didn’t. If you’ve ever wondered if you picked the right curriculum or felt stuck with one that’s just not working for you or your family, this episode is for you. We’re diving into practical ideas to help you find what works for your family, with a focus on you. Not Sally-Jane down the street, or that lady who seems to have it all together with the perfect kids. No. You. Because at the end of the day, if you don’t like the curriculum, even if everyone says it is the best, it isn’t going to work for your family.

My goal for this podcast, as well as for the others that represent our network, is to leave you encouraged, equipped, and ready to make choices that bring joy to your homeschool. Let’s get started.

How to Choose a Homeschool Curriculum That Fits Your Family

The truth is, the best curriculum is the one that fits your family’s unique needs, and that can change from year to year as your kids grow. Look at your family and analyze what you need. Watch your kids at play, or if you have high schoolers, what interests them? Adding a mini-unit study or a deeper study will definitely help promote a child’s interests, but introducing them to new topics or stretching their minds is always beneficial.

I’ve mentioned this before in Episode 536, “The Best Homeschool Curriculum,” where we discussed finding what aligns with your kids and your lifestyle. A great place to start is CathyDuffyReviews.com – it’s a goldmine for detailed, expert reviews that help you sort through options without feeling overwhelmed. Trust me, it’s saved me from plenty of curriculum mistakes over the years.

Prioritizing Family Connection in Homeschooling

One thing to remember is that the focus of your homeschool should be on building strong family relationships through learning and education. Most of us prioritize spending time with our children over checking every academic box. I used checklists to keep us on track, as I could easily go off on a tangent. However, I prioritized shared activities, such as read-alouds and hands-on projects. We always had something planned, like a science or history fair. Even if we only presented to our family. For several years, we participated in science fairs, and my daughter won the competition, placing 2nd in the regional science fair and 1st in the state homeschool science fair. My other children were not as interested in the bigger competitions, so we kept it to the local homeschool science fairs. My science fair book even made it on the shelves of some libraries across the state and was named as the top book in God’s World Publishing.

Incorporating Life Skills into Your Homeschool Curriculum

Every opportunity to incorporate school into our homeschool was utilized. We cooked, baked, and worked on larger family projects together. I taught the children how to budget, or we worked on several gardens, not all of which were successful, except for basil. Somehow, we can grow huge basil plants. That didn’t mean we didn’t have a math curriculum, or reading and language arts for the older kids.

My kids were raised with the goal of being ready for life, not just tests. No snowflakes here. I think sports helped (although I was a reluctant sports mom at first; my biggest complaint was the time taken up with practices and weekends for the sport). Aside from that, I spent a great deal of time customizing my own curriculum with living books, nature studies, and creative projects. I eventually wrote books with a co-author who was a scientist, and we developed a four-book series. The Creation Study Guides are available on my website.

Affordable and Flexible Homeschool Curriculum Options

My focus was on creating an educational environment that was tailored to your kids. And finally, affordable options like CTC Math one of our sponsors.

What Flopped in Our Homeschool Curriculum

Now, let’s get to the confessions. As a former public school teacher, I attempted to recreate the school experience at home, but that proved to be a major flop for both my then-only homeschooling child and me, who had some learning struggles. It was horrible. The all-in-one programs were recreating public school at home. It was too rigid and too much like busywork, leaving us all frustrated. Switching to something flexible made all the difference. The math book, especially, was a train wreck, so what did I do? I ordered another one. I soon realized that the younger grades really needed to incorporate hands-on learning, and with that small tweak, it became a success instead of an ordeal. More work for me? Yes. But so worth it.

Practical Solutions for Curriculum Challenges

We used real-world learning, a straightforward phonics program, and turned everyday tasks like grocery shopping into math lessons, keeping things engaging and practical. We loved the nature center, and my son and daughter learned so much! But the biggest obstacle for me was changing the curriculum mid-year. I had such a hard time giving myself permission to do so because of the cost! No one wants to waste money, so often we just plow through and make the best of things. If that is how you feel, then listen to my Vintage Homeschool Moms, “Help! I Want To Change My Curriculum,” I finally made a mid-year switch that brought relief and success.

Fostering Critical Thinking Through Family Discussions

Another thing that worked was making time for family discussions centered on books, ideas, or current events. These conversations spark curiosity and build critical thinking in ways no worksheet can. On the other hand, a significant drawback was pushing through without breaks. I’ve learned that routines are important rather than rigid schedules. We took short breaks between subjects when possible and made time every morning for a devotional, where I read a short Bible story or thought for the day. This allowed us to keep burnout at bay.

The Role of Discipline in Homeschool Success

Truthfully, being fully committed and maintaining a strict approach to child discipline was key. Episode 491, “Homeschool Secret Weapon,” has more details on the topic.

One thing I learned was that I couldn’t be afraid to make a change or thoroughly research before buying a homeschool curriculum. Remember, what your good friend loves and what works for her family may not work for you. I often had friends come over and look at my curriculum, and I did the same if I was interested in something that someone else used.

Why Homeschooling Beats Traditional Schooling

The end result is that a bad day of homeschooling is better than the best day in public or private school. Even co-ops. You homeschool moms and dads are doing incredible work. I so miss the days of traveling and speaking at homeschool conferences. There, I was able to meet face-to-face with moms and dads and spent the entire time discussing and helping families. Even if it meant sending them off to buy someone else’s curriculum instead of my unit studies. I listened and advised accordingly.

Keep experimenting, keep adjusting, and know that every step forward is a win. You can do this! Share this episode with a friend who’s navigating curriculum choices, and let’s encourage each other. Please visit our website to leave a personal comment or connect with us on social media. I’d love to hear what’s working for you or any way I can help you!

Thanks for joining me today. Keep homeschooling and remember you are not alone. Until next time!

Key Takeaways for Choosing the Best Homeschool Curriculum

• Point 1: Choose what fits your family – The best curriculum matches your kids’ needs and may change yearly; use CathyDuffyReviews.com for expert guidance.

• Point 2: Prioritize connection – Building family bonds through shared learning experiences, such as read-alouds or hands-on projects, is the best!

• Point 3: Integrate life skills – Teach practical skills, such as cooking or budgeting, alongside academics to foster well-rounded kids. Expect a lot and you will get a lot back. Remember, discipline is important.

• Point 4: Keep it simple and affordable – Use flexible, budget-friendly options like the Media Angels curriculum. Unit studies are suitable for K-12 students and can be utilized throughout your homeschooling years by delving deeper.

• Point 5: Our decsions change – I didn’t plan to homeschool but it turned out great. Here is a past episode of Confessions of a Homeschool Mom.

Struggling with your homeschool curriculum? Share your wins or flops on this post (see below) or on our Facebook page #HomeschoolCurriculum or visit VintageHomeschoolMoms.com to connect and comment!

Snag your bonus BIRTHDAY PODCAST GOLD. Grab the FREE Homeschooling Matters Ebook from Media Angels.

The post Curriculum Confessions: What I’d Do Differently (and Why It Worked Anyway) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

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Running Your Family Like a CEO – Vintage Homeschool Moms Episode 269

Have you ever thought about running your family like a business? In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, Felice Gerwitz explores how the principles of strong leadership, organization, and accountability that make companies thrive can also help families flourish.

As a wife, mom, and entrepreneur, Felice realized that while her husband’s business ran efficiently, sometimes family life at home felt scattered. What if we applied the strategies of a CEO to family life—without losing the heart and love that make our homes unique?

In this episode, Felice shares practical and faith-filled encouragement for Christian parents who want to lead their families with vision, clarity, and love.

Sponsored by NOW Programs.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Faith as the foundation – why your relationship with God shapes everything in family life.

• Parenting as leadership – the difference between effective and ineffective parenting styles.

• Setting family goals – how to identify spiritual, academic, and character goals for each child.

• Organization & delegation – why follow-through is essential when assigning chores and responsibilities.

• Accountability systems – practical ways to encourage responsibility and prevent sloppy habits.

• Communication in the home – how to foster respect, resolve conflict, and invest in time together.

• Family traditions that build connection – from game nights to camping trips.

Felice also shares real-life parenting stories, tips for balancing quality vs. quantity time, and how allowing kids to fail (safely) at home can help them grow into responsible adults.

Whether you’re homeschooling full-time, balancing work and family, or simply longing for more peace and purpose in your home, this episode will encourage you to think about your family’s mission with the intentionality of a CEO—rooted in faith and love.

Listen now and discover how small shifts in leadership and organization can transform your family life!

Resources & Links

• Visit Vintage Homeschool Moms for more episodes.

• Explore faith-based resources, planners, and homeschool management tools at Media Angels.

• Connect with other Christian homeschool families in the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Facebook Group.

The post Running Your Family Like a CEO: Faith-Based Leadership for the Modern Homeschool Mom appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

How to Make the Transition Peaceful & Productive

Vintage Homeschool Moms — Episode 79 (Replay)

Host: Felice Gerwitz — author, publisher, and your weekly encourager for living a Christian life where every moment counts.

Big question: How do you bring a child home from a traditional classroom without losing your relationship—or your sanity?

Episode snapshot

Felice talks with guest Michelle Pohl, a mom who transitioned her fourth-grader (and kindergartener) from brick-and-mortar school to home. They get real about what’s actually hard (hint: it’s not fractions), why rebuilding connection comes before curriculum, and the small daily habits that help mom set a calm tone in the home. You’ll hear practical ideas for de-schooling, rhythms that work, how to handle “That’s not how my teacher did it,” and why it’s okay that mom is different—and should be.

Highlights & takeaways

• Relationship first, lessons second. The biggest challenge wasn’t academics—it was re-connecting after years of go-go-go schedules. Expect the first year to focus on trust-building and new family rhythms.

• Mom sets the tone. Simple anchors change the day: quiet time with the Lord, a shower and getting dressed (even if it’s fresh pajamas!), and a warm cup of tea to slow reactions and increase patience.

• De-school with intention. If possible, transition over summer or after Christmas and allow buffer weeks for rest, field trips, and previewing curriculum. Let emotions settle before you launch.

• Customize the learning space. Snacks on hand, comfy seating, earbuds with worship music for easily distracted kids, clipboards for mobility—home shouldn’t copy school desks.

• Handle comparisons with calm. When kids say, “That’s not how my teacher did it,” try: “Every teacher is different. At home, I’ll teach you in ways that fit you—and if I don’t know, I’ll find out.”

• Plan—then hold it loosely. Map the year so you can pivot without panic. Build in breaks even if you could “finish by noon”; little brains (and big ones) need margin.

• Practical must-haves. Don’t laugh—an electric pencil sharpener can feel like the heavens opening. Keep water nearby, too.

• Why homeschool is ministry. Raising children is good work and Kingdom work. Your daily diligence—fractions, read-alouds, character—matters.

Suggested routines that helped Michelle

• Morning anchors: Devotions/prayer, basic get-ready routine, breakfast together, then start by 9:00.

• Choice within structure: Let kids choose which subject to start—unless attention is slipping, then gently redirect.

• Built-in breaks: Short, frequent pauses to laugh, move, and connect keep learning sweet.

• Family conversation: Let lessons spill into dinner talk to normalize learning as a lifestyle.

If you’re preparing to bring kids home

1. Give yourselves time to de-school and de-stress.

2. Research curriculum—but remember: the “perfect” one is the one you’ll actually use.

3. Expect a honeymoon, then hard work—both are normal.

4. Pray for (and plan) routines that fit your family’s wiring, not someone else’s Instagram.

Resources & links

• Felice’s books & curriculum: MediaAngels.com

• Guest blog: BloomingWithJoy.com (Michelle Pohl)* Now

• Vintage Homeschool Moms archive: TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com

Connect & share

Was this episode helpful? What part of transitioning home feels hardest right now—routines, curriculum, or rebuilding connection? Hit reply on the show email or share with us on social!

Subscribe & review: If this encouraged you, leave a quick review and share with a friend.

Sponsor/Network: Vintage Homeschool Moms is a production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network. Visit the site for more Christ-centered homeschool shows and resources.

Thank you to NOW Programs, our Network Sponsor.

Equipping Students for Success 
When it comes to overcoming learning disabilities or difficulties, accommodations are not your only option. Our clinically-tested online reading program for dyslexia really works to build and strengthen your child’s basic, essential skills as well as the more complex skills needed to be successful in school, work, and in life. These improvements in reading, writing, math, reasoning, comprehension, memory, and problem solving skills CAN empower you or your child to reach their full potential!

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The post Making the Switch: Homeschooling After Public or Private School appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day – Balancing Structure and Flexibility ~ Episode 566

Welcome back to Vintage Homeschool Moms! In this follow-up to our episode, A Great Start to Your Homeschool Day, we’re diving deeper into creating a homeschool pace that works for your family. Listen, we are all different, and I can describe for you the perfect homeschool day that would work for me, yet not for you. Since we can’t sit across the table from each other and talk, this is the next best thing. I can make some suggestions, and you can decide what works best for you.

Thanks to our sponsor, NowPrograms.com

In homeschooling, there is no one-size-fits-all. Homeschooling is often tailored to your child, your family, and your specific needs. In a large homeschool family, this idea may not be as child-specific, but you can still get your day in some semblance of order and end the day feeling happier for it.

First, analyze how you feel at the end of the day. Does your day feel chaotic, overly rigid, or packed to the brim? Today’s episode, Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day: Balancing Structure and Flexibility, is all about refining your approach to make homeschooling sustainable, productive, and joyful. Yes, friends, joy can be had in your homeschool days. I get it; some days are just ordeals. However, after many years of tweaking my homeschooling days, I developed a method that worked for us, and that is what I want to share with you today. How to find what works for you.

I’m excited to share practical strategies to help you blend routines, schedules, and a positive mindset, resulting in a day that flows smoothly. We can only hope and pray, isn’t that right? I also want to discuss the results from our last episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, specifically the Homeschool Day Self-Evaluation Quiz (from Episode 565). If you missed this episode, you can listen to it first. It is not necessary, but it would be helpful. That episode is A Great Start To Your Homeschool.

I’ll also want to provide some ideas on how to adapt to challenges, utilize some inexpensive tools effectively, and prioritize downtime to keep your family learning yet thriving. Maybe you haven’t started homeschooling, or you are in the middle of the year and just found this episode. No worries! I believe that every day can be a fresh start to shape the type of homeschool experience that reflects your values and your kids’ needs.

This episode builds on the foundation laid in our previous discussion about starting your homeschool day with intention. We’ll use insights from the 20-question True or False quiz (available at Vintage Homeschool Moms) to help you identify whether your day is chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or working well. From there, we’ll dive into actionable steps to fine-tune your approach, ensuring your homeschool year is both effective and enjoyable. Let’s get started!

Why Fine-Tuning Matters

Every homeschool family is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Fine-tuning your day means finding the balance between structure and flexibility that suits your family’s needs. In our last episode, we discussed how your attitude is so important in shaping your day and how routines, schedules, and checklists provide a sense of stability. Today, we’re taking it a step further by helping you refine your day based on your quiz results. Whether your day feels like a whirlwind or a rigid checklist, small tweaks can reduce stress, boost productivity, and make room for joy. A well-tuned homeschool day allows you to focus on what matters—learning, family connection, and faith—without feeling overwhelmed.

Analyzing Your Quiz Results

The Homeschool Day Self-Evaluation Quiz highlighted the following important points and helped you to identify six day types: chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or a day that is working well. Here’s what each means:

• Chaotic Day: Late starts, skipped subjects, or unpredictable mornings signal a lack of structure, leading to frustration.
• Scheduled Day: A fixed timetable for subjects provides predictability but may feel restrictive if too rigid.
• Routine-Based Day: Consistent habits, like morning chores or read-alouds, offer flow without strict timing.
• Rigid Day: Sticking to a plan despite interruptions can stifle spontaneity and teachable moments.
• Over-Scheduled Day: Too many activities that exhaust everyone, leaving no room for rest or play.
• Working Well Day: A balanced, productive, and joyful day means you’re on the right track.

Listen, a working well day can be a rigid day, or an overly scheduled day if that makes you and your kids happy! So, go with what works best for you. However, when you review your quiz answers, you might note one or two areas to improve. For example, a chaotic day needs a morning routine, while an over-scheduled day requires cutting non-essentials. Use these insights to guide the strategies below.

Blending Routines and Schedules – Helpful Ideas

The key to a great homeschool day is mixing it up! Try blending routines for some flexibility with schedules for accountability. Routines create consistent habits without being tied to a clock, while schedules ensure academic progress. Here’s how to combine them:

• Morning Routine: Start with about 10 minutes of family time—pray and review your goals for the day. Afterwards, have breakfast with the children, asking them to share one fun thing they’d like to accomplish after they finish their schoolwork. This sets a positive tone.
• Core Subject Schedule: Assign time blocks for essentials (e.g., math from 9:00-9:45 AM, reading from 10:00-10:45 AM). Keep blocks short (30-45 minutes for younger kids, 60 minutes for older ones).
• Flexible Routines: Incorporate habits like post-lunch quiet time or afternoon art projects to help maintain a balanced routine. These can be adjusted as needed, but maintaining predictability may be helpful. Many kids like to know what is happening each day.
• Checklists: Use grade-appropriate checklists (available in all homeschool planners at mediaangels.com/store) to track daily and weekly goals, giving kids autonomy. I wanted my children to become as self-sufficient. This means that if I get distracted or busy, they can continue their schoolwork and accomplish the day’s goals.

When I homeschooled, we used schedules for academics but routines for chores and family time. If a subject ran long, we’d adjust non-academic routines, like delaying a read-aloud. This balance kept us on track without feeling overwhelmed or a slave to our schedule.

Adapting to Challenges

Homeschool days are unpredictable—spills, arguments, or a child’s curiosity can disrupt plans. Adapting without losing momentum is crucial. Try these tips:

• Buffers for Interruptions: Add 10-15 minute gaps between time blocks. If a toddler spills juice, you can handle it without derailing the day.
• Teachable Moments: If a child asks about the planets or stargazing during math, pause briefly or note it for later. Flexibility fuels curiosity. I would write things down so we would not forget!
• Energy Management: Schedule high-energy subjects (like math) in the morning and lighter ones (like art) in the afternoon to match energy levels. Everyone is fresh in the morning, but after lunch, a noticeable decline may occur. That is when I tried to schedule activities that were not so brain-intensive!
• Mindset: When disruptions frustrate you, work on being as calm as possible for your kids. I would close my eyes and say something like, “Thank you, Jesus, and please help us!” Then, we’d fix the issue and move on. I can’t emphasize how important your attitude is, because it becomes contagious! I didn’t realize I said, “Alrighty, then!” Until my kids started saying it as well. When you wonder why they pick up your bad habits, consider these may be the ones you model the most.

For chaotic days, start with one routine, like a consistent wake-up time. On rigid days, allow one time block to be flexible for spontaneous learning. These adjustments create a change that is enough to keep the kids engaged, while also making your children who like to be scheduled happy.

Using Tools Effectively

Tools like planners and checklists streamline your day and empower kids to take ownership of their tasks. Here’s how to maximize them:

• Daily Checklists: Create subject and chore checklists for each child. Templates in all of the Planners at mediaangels.com/store make this easy. Kids love checking off tasks! Or create your own. Make a grid of the subjects on the left, the time you will do the subject, and a Monday-Friday grid with a place to check off the task. It’s super easy to create in a Word document or Google Docs. Print it out and give one to each child. You can make this as complicated or as simple as you like. Older teens can make their own.
• Weekly Goal Sheets: Set 3-5 goals per subject weekly (e.g., “Complete 4 math lessons”). Review Fridays to celebrate and adjust. We used our check-off lists as a way for the children to earn the privilege of selecting a movie or game for the family to enjoy. Sometimes, no one earned the privilege, and sometimes multiple children did. Use what works best for your family. My family is super competitive, so they loved the challenge.
• Visual Aids: Post routines on a kitchen whiteboard or use apps for family schedules to keep everyone aligned. We used a shared Google calendar, and I would update it with sports practice and other events so that everyone had the information handy, especially us parents!
• Monthly Reviews: Assess what’s working. Are checklists too detailed? Is the schedule too tight? Tweak based on quiz feedback. Here is another quiz you can take. It is an assessment for the beginning and middle of the school year, examining various factors that can benefit your homeschool. Organized Homeschool.

Checklists were a lifesaver in my homeschool, keeping us focused without micromanaging. They’re simple yet effective for tracking progress. Best of all, they can be printed out and used as a resource for yearly evaluations at the end of the school year.

Prioritizing Downtime and Joy

Over-scheduling drains families, leaving no room for rest or connection. To keep homeschooling sustainable, prioritize downtime:

• Limit Activities: Stick to 4-5 core daily tasks (e.g., math, reading, one chore, one fun activity). Decline extra co-ops if they overwhelm you. If they are something your family enjoys, be sure to use it as a way to enrich your homeschool.
• Schedule Breaks: Include a 30-minute quiet time after lunch for reading, naps, or play to recharge.
• Add Fun Routines: Incorporate a daily nature walk or weekly game night to strengthen bonds.
• Positive Attitude: Start with a gratitude prayer to set a calm tone. Your faith and prayers help kids feel secure. My children would often offer to pray, which was so beneficial for the entire family.

If your quiz results showed over-scheduling, list all activities and analyze them to see if it is possible to cut one or two. Replace them with as you can. Balance is key! My daughter would homeschool year-round and take off blocks of time to fit her schedule. That helped her limit the number of academics during a specific period of time to allow for more family time. Do what works for your family!

Making It Your Own

Fine-tuning is about tailoring your day to your family. Focus on one improvement—such as adding a routine, loosening a schedule, or cutting back on activities. Experiment for a week, then tweak again. Your attitude sets the tone—start fresh, model resilience, and celebrate the wins. Homeschooling is a journey, so embrace the flexibility to make it your own! If you are mirroring the school at home, it tends to be tedious and unsustainable in the long run.

Relevant Past Episodes

For more insights on creating a great homeschool year, check out these Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes:

1. Best Homeschool Planning Tips (Episode #214): Learn simple planning tips to start your year strong, focusing on balancing school with life using checklists and goal-setting strategies.
2. Organized Homeschool: Felice and Meredith Curtis share wisdom on organizing your homeschool with practical tools, such as binders, totes, and schedules, to create a productive year. This includes a beginning and middle of the year check up!
3. Homeschooling Secrets (Episode #490): Discover top tips from Felice’s 32 years of homeschooling, including how to structure your year for academic success and family harmony.

Don’t Forget!

Download the Character Counts planners at mediaangels.com/store. This is a great way to encourage and practice good character traits as a family. There are activities for the entire family and scenarios to act out.

Share your favorite routine or tip on social media with #VintageHomeschoolMoms. Subscribe for more episodes, and join us next time to explore fostering independence in your homeschoolers. Keep it up, moms—you’ve got this!

The post Fine-Tune Your Homeschool Day: Small Tweaks for a Smoother Routine appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com – yes, they are an amazing math company and I can attest to it as my grandchildren and now using it and love it.

Your Homeschool Day ~ Episode 565

Whether it’s day one, day 21, or day 101, each homeschool day offers a fresh start. Over the years, I’ve learned that our attitude shapes how the day begins and, ultimately, how it ends. Our children pick up on our cues, and while that may feel like a lot of pressure, it’s valuable to keep in mind. A positive mindset can set the tone for a productive and joyful day.

I begin each day with prayer, praising God for having a way of turning my day around. I keep that mental praise going even when I don’t feel like being thankful, and especially when all appears to be going south. You get what I mean! As moms, we carry many burdens and wear many hats. But praising God is a sure way to get your day off to a good start. So, once you get your mental work down, what about the physical?

Relevant Past Episodes

For more insights on creating a great homeschool year, check out these Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes:

1. Best Homeschool Planning Tips (Episode #214): Learn simple planning tips to start your year strong, focusing on balancing school with life using checklists and goal-setting strategies.

2. Dejunking and Homeschool Organization Felice and Meredith Curtis share years of experience in homeschooling, and now, they discuss great tips for getting your life organized and not losing those precious treasures or important documents.

Homeschool Day Reality

Do you have routines, a schedule, or another method to navigate your homeschool day? If your days feel chaotic, consider revising or implementing a structure. Routines always worked best for me, but I also used a structured schedule for academic classes tailored to my children’s grade levels. These were completed daily, alongside weekly goals. Checklists were incredibly helpful for staying organized and ensuring progress. You can find useful printable planners and checklists at mediaangels.com/store to support your homeschool journey.

By blending routines for flexibility and schedules for accountability, you can create a balanced day that suits your family. Start each morning with intention, and watch how small changes transform your homeschool experience into one that’s both effective and enjoyable.

Just for fun, I have a quick self-evaluation for you to take. Typically, I’m not a fan, but this will help you figure out where you can improve your day. And, with improvement comes success, happiness for a job well done, and for me, a sense of accomplishment. Many times, we struggle without putting our finger on the “why” behind the problem. In this way, taking a quick assessment may be just what you need to figure out what you can do, incrementally, to create a well-run homeschool day!

Homeschool Day Self-Evaluation Quiz

This True or False quiz helps homeschool moms assess their daily structure. Answer honestly based on your typical day to determine if it’s chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or working well. Mark True (T) or False (F) for each of the 20 questions.

1. 1. My homeschool day often starts late due to rushing.
   2. I follow a fixed timetable for subjects (e.g., math from 9-10 AM).
   3. We have consistent habits, like morning chores before lessons, but adjust times.
   4. I stick to the schedule even if interruptions, like a child’s question, arise.
   5. Our day is packed with back-to-back activities, lessons, and errands.
   6. Mornings feel productive and calm, setting a positive tone.
   7. Unexpected events, like spills or tantrums, derail the entire day.
   8. I use daily checklists for academic goals, completed at my kids’ pace.
   9. We have flexible learning blocks, but the order stays consistent.
   10. Plan changes, like skipping a subject, make me anxious.
   11. Afternoons feel exhausting from too many co-ops, sports, or extras.
   12. Our homeschool rhythm allows time for work and fun.
   13. I often skip subjects due to no clear plan.
   14. We set and track weekly goals with planners or apps.
   15. Daily rituals, like reading aloud after lunch, keep things steady.
   16. I rarely deviate from the agenda, even for teachable moments.
   17. We cram in multiple subjects and outings, leaving no downtime.
   18. I feel satisfied daily that we’ve accomplished what matters.
   19. Mornings are unpredictable, with kids scattered and no clear start.
   20. We have a structured outline but include buffers for flexibility.

Free Download – Homeschool Matters

Answer Key and Interpretation

Count your “True” answers for each category. The category with the most “True” responses likely describes your homeschool day (ties suggest a hybrid style). Below are explanations and suggestions inspired by homeschool practices like routines, schedules, and checklists.

• Chaotic Day (Questions 1, 7, 13, 19): 3+ True = Your day lacks structure, causing stress. Suggestions: Start with simple routines, like a fixed morning start. Use checklists from mediaangels.com/store for organization. Set a positive tone with a family huddle.
• Scheduled Day (Questions 2, 8, 14): 2+ True = You have a predictable academic timetable. Suggestions: Add flexibility with weekly goals alongside daily slots. Use grade-appropriate checklists for tracking. Blend in routines for non-academic tasks if too strict.
• Routine-Based Day (Questions 3, 9, 15): 2+ True = Your day flows with adaptable habits. Suggestions: Enhance with light scheduling for core subjects. Use chore charts or goal sheets from mediaangels.com/store. Include breaks to avoid burnout.
• Rigid Day (Questions 4, 10, 16): 2+ True = Your structure may be too inflexible. Suggestions: Add buffers (e.g., 15-minute flex time). Shift to routines for daily habits, keeping schedules for academics. View deviations as opportunities, using checklists for priorities.
• Over-Scheduled Day (Questions 5, 11, 17): 2+ True = Your day is packed, risking exhaustion. Suggestions: Cut non-essentials to 4-5 core activities daily. Add downtime routines, like quiet reading. Use planners from mediaangels.com/store to streamline.
• Working Well Day (Questions 6, 12, 18, 20): 3+ True = Your day is balanced and enjoyable. Suggestions: Maintain with monthly reviews. Combine routines and light schedules. Share positive cues with kids and explore mediaangels.com/store for tools.

If answers are mixed, try a hybrid approach: routines for flow, schedules for academics, and checklists for accountability. You can take this quiz at different times during the year, so bookmark this podcast to review at another time. Next week, we will tackle Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day: Balancing Structure and Flexibility. This builds on today’s topics with some quick takeaways to help your busy day run smoothly.

For more tips, listen to Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast episodes on organization.

The post Start Your Homeschool Day Right: Morning Routines That Set the Tone for Success appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Must-Know Life Skills – Episode 343

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In today’s world of instant information and smartphone convenience, many young people are growing up without the practical and personal life skills they truly need. In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we roll up our sleeves and talk about the must-know life skills every child should learn before adulthood.

Life skills aren’t just about survival in the wilderness—they’re the everyday habits, disciplines, and practical abilities that build confidence, independence, and character. From faith and convictions to cooking a meal or managing money, these lessons will serve your kids for a lifetime.

Here’s a look at what we cover:

Personal Life Skills

• Faith: Knowing what you believe, why you believe it, and how to articulate and defend it.

• Communication: Speaking clearly, listening respectfully, and even cell phone etiquette.

• Critical Thinking: Making decisions, solving problems, and discerning truth from opinion.

• Self-Control & Convictions: Standing firm in beliefs, managing emotions, and respecting differences.

• Coping with Stress: Identifying healthy vs. unhealthy coping strategies and reducing stress.

Practical Life Skills

• Cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.

• Meal planning, grocery shopping, and basic home maintenance.

• Money management: saving, spending, tithing, and understanding credit vs. debit.

• Writing and communication: emails, letters, and professional etiquette.

• Navigation and transportation: maps, GPS, public transit, and car maintenance.

• Health and safety: understanding medications, driving safety, and household dangers.

Whether you’re a homeschool parent looking to weave these lessons into your family life or a young adult trying to catch up, this episode will inspire you to equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive.

Listen now and then add your own must-know life skills to the list!

The post Essential Life Skills for Kids: Practical Lessons Every Homeschool Should Teach appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Prerequisites for a Long-Lasting and Satisfying Career ~ Episode 564

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms, I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and today we’re continuing our discussion on AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers with part two: exploring the prerequisites for a long-lasting and satisfying career. As homeschool families grounded in faith, we know the value of preparing our children not just academically, but with the character and skills that honor God’s design for work as a form of stewardship. Sometimes we feel that we are lacking, but with God all things are possible! Including the impossible. If you had a child like mine who lost their math book each day (at least once), you may wonder if she would grow up to be a welcome member of society. The good news is yes. The child in question is a college grad (in three years) and now a very organized homeschool mom of nine children who co-authored three books with me as a homeschooled teen.

It can be done, but it takes persistence, perseverance, and tenacity to follow through with your children. But what about a fulfilling work life and a long-lasting career?

My husband jokingly says that work is what you do, and it does not necessarily need to be something you love. Before college, where he received a full-ride baseball scholarship, he sold all of his carpentry tools, telling his family he would never do that again! Fast forward to post-college, and two years later, he was married to me, and he started his own construction business. He decided it was the fastest way to make a good income, so I could stay home with our children when we had them. I had a degree in education and taught middle school for two years, and I was ready to “retire.” Little did I know that I would not go back (as was the plan when I had school-aged children), and instead, I homeschooled all five children. My husband and I believe that often, a job, even if it’s not a dream job, is designed for an income to support a family. As homeschoolers, many of us moms and some dads are living in a single-income family, and with that comes budgeting and decisions on job selection based on the idea of mom staying home. As a side note, he prayed that the Lord would take away his dislike for the job and instead fill his heart with gratitude. And, God did!

Today, our topic focuses on some of the attributes necessary to find and keep a job. I believe this is something not often discussed regarding blue-collar workers, and they are every bit as important if you are considering this field as a possibility. These are the skills you need before deciding what job you might want to know more about, going on a job hunt, or even starting a job, whether it is a blue-collar or white-collar job.

1. Are you self-motivated and self-disciplined?

This is important in any career choice. (Employers look for personnel who actually show up for work, vs. those who are slack.) The person who has to be woken up to do their schoolwork or nagged to complete chores is not going to last long in a competitive job field.

• Establish daily routines in your homeschool schedule to build habits of punctuality and consistency, such as starting lessons at a set time each morning.
• Assign independent projects that require self-starting, like researching a trade skill and completing a report without reminders.
• Incorporate chores or family responsibilities that mimic job deadlines, teaching the value of reliability in blue-collar settings like construction or plumbing.

2. YouTube

Many teens and tweens use readily available, free do-it-yourself videos to get started on career selection while still homeschooling and in high school.

• Search for beginner tutorials on platforms like YouTube for trades such as carpentry basics or electrical wiring safety, and integrate them into weekly homeschool electives.
• Use free video series from conservative creators focused on practical skills, pairing them with hands-on follow-up activities at home to test what was learned.
• Track progress by creating a homeschool portfolio of completed DIY projects, which can demonstrate initiative to future employers in the trades.

3. Apprenticeship

This is one of the best ways, and it is so important when trying out a job idea, to see if you are a good fit.

• Seek local church or community-based apprenticeship programs in trades like HVAC or welding to gain supervised experience without full commitment.
• Start with short-term shadowing opportunities through family connections or homeschool co-ops to evaluate interest in blue-collar roles.
• Document reflections after each session in a homeschool journal, noting strengths and areas for growth to discern vocational calling.

4. Financials.

How much can you make in the near future, and what is the pay increase in your field? How is this going to set you up in the future to support a family or contribute to the family income?

• Research entry-level wages for trades using resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics or conservative outlets like Fox News opinion pieces on blue-collar opportunities, to understand starting pay and growth potential.
• Create a homeschool budgeting exercise simulating future earnings in a trade, factoring in family support and biblical principles of provision.
• Explore long-term projections for job stability in skilled trades, emphasizing how consistent income aligns with stewardship and family priorities.

5. Ability to be flexible.

Many jobs require flexibility, as things don’t always go right.

• Practice adaptability in homeschool by adjusting lesson plans for unexpected changes, such as switching from indoor to outdoor activities.
• Engage in group projects through co-ops where roles shift, mirroring the dynamic nature of blue-collar teams on job sites.
• Incorporate problem-solving drills, like troubleshooting a simple home repair, to build resilience when plans deviate.

6. Ability to follow directions.

Are you teachable? This is very important, especially when working for other people. No one wants to hire a “know-it-all,” especially one who is extra talkative or wants to boss other people around. If you are new to the job, listen, take outside cues and learn. You may have your chance to be the boss at some point. Entry level is not that chance.

• Give your child tasks that emphasize step-by-step instructions, such as building models or following recipes, to hone obedience to guidance.
• Encourage feedback sessions after assignments, teaching humility and openness to correction as key to growth in trades.
• Pair with mentors in faith-based groups who model teachability, reinforcing the Biblical value of learning wisdom from others.

7. Ability to get along.

Not everyone needs to be your best friend, but getting along with others is essential in any job setting.

• Participate in homeschool co-op activities or church youth groups to practice collaboration with diverse personalities.
• Role-play conflict resolution scenarios focused on workplace harmony, drawing from Proverbs on peaceful relations.
• Foster team-based learning at home, like family service projects, to develop interpersonal skills for blue-collar crews.

8. Tenacity.

Do you have the ability to stick with or the motivation to try something and do it to the best of your ability?

• Set long-term homeschool goals, such as mastering a skill over several months, to cultivate perseverance in the face of challenges.
• Incorporate endurance-building tasks, like ongoing trade-related experiments, rewarding completion to instill grit.
• Research others, such as Mike Rowe, on the rewards of “dirty jobs.”

9. Discernment.

Trying your hardest doesn’t always mean success. Understanding your capabilities and knowing when a job is not a good fit for you.

• Teach self-assessment through homeschool evaluations, identifying strengths and weaknesses in potential trade areas.
• Discuss Biblical discernment to prayerfully consider the best career path.
• Encourage exploring multiple trade options briefly to recognize when to pivot without discouragement.

10. Believe in yourself.

Have faith in yourself that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to, even if it is difficult and everyone else says you can’t. Ignore them and press on IF this is really what you want to do.

• Build confidence through incremental successes in homeschool challenges, affirming God’s equipping for tasks.
• Use affirmations rooted in Scripture, like Philippians 4:13, (I can do all things in him who strengthens me.) during daily devotions.
• Read or talk to others with inspiring stories. People who have overcome the odds and are successful. (Remember, success is not just monetary.)

For more on building these skills, check out our Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes like “Life Skills 101 – Life and Career Skills for Homeschoolers” and “Work Ethic with Cindy La Joy”, which offer faith-friendly insights into preparing for meaningful work.

Thanks for joining me on Vintage Homeschool Moms. Visit ultimateradioshow.com for more episodes. Until next time, take care, God bless and I’ll talk to you soon!

Listen on:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Additional Resources:

• The Epoch Times: What Types of Jobs Will Survive the AI Revolution? – Insights on resilient blue-collar careers.
• Fox News: Forget AI, Dirty Jobs Help You Clean Up – Opinion on the value of hands-on work.
• Explore more homeschool career preparation tips on our site.

Listen to Part 1: AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers

The post Preparing Teens for Purpose: The Real Prerequisites for a Meaningful Career appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers ~ Episode 563

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms. Today, we are going to discuss the joys, challenges, and prepare our kids for the future. I love to think I homeschooled with a heart for faith and family first, and I’m so blessed to be with you today if you are a first-time listener, welcome.

For those of you who are faithful listeners, thanks for tuning in and welcome back! I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and today we’re tackling a timely topic: AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers. Today, we will discuss how the rapid advancements in technology are shaking up the job market—and what that means for our kids’ futures as homeschool families.

Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com, be sure to check the homeschool link for deep discounts.

The Rise of AI and Its Impact on Jobs

Much has happened in the last few years, and the quantum leap in AI technology is frightening, to say the least. That is, if you have a healthy understanding of how search engines function, and what used to be a useful tool has now turned into something much more accurate. It’s not perfect—thankfully—but AI is way better than the robot voice that used to greet me when I turned on AOL. If you’re old enough to remember, you’d hear those words, “You’ve got mail.”

The power of AI technology is threatening some of the most sophisticated jobs, including accounting, medical analysis, decision-making, code creation, marketing, and much, much more. Many analysts fear that entry-level white-collar jobs are easily replaceable in the future, especially as AI continues to improve. Have you walked into a fast-food restaurant, only to be greeted with rows of kiosks or computer screens ready to take your order? This is AI in the workplace, replacing real people with a machine that’s faster and as accurate as the person inputting the information.

What about blue-collar jobs?

Currently, they seem safe, but in the past, many jobs were replaced with automation. The car industry is one example, having replaced assembly lines staffed with workers with machines. But thankfully, car assembly workers are still necessary. In the not-so-distant future—well, actually, just recently—when the dock workers went on strike, one of the concessions was the shipping industry agreeing not to replace all dock workers with automation. I’m sure at some point it will happen, but it was a win for the workers and the powerful unions.

Will computers take over everything? And where does it stop?

Well, it seems that with highly skilled blue-collar workers, their jobs are safe for now. All of this discussion hits close to home for me. We run a service industry, supplying carpenters to contractors to build homes. My husband owns a construction business. While he is a general contractor, his focus is on the carpentry aspect of construction—rough carpentry.

This is a highly skilled area of new house construction. They are the ones who build exterior walls (if they’re out of wood, set trusses (those pointy-looking things that are raised with a crane), and build interior walls—sometimes with wood and other times with metal. Anything involving wood framing is under his purview.

Most of the men on the job are strong and young, able to climb ladders, get on roofs, and balance on beams. They can lift those heavy power tools and work with powerful nail-guns. Let’s just say I avoid the job sites after visiting with my young children, who wanted to see what “Daddy does for work”—it was enough for me. The pay is good, and thus it’s a job that, once secured, can provide for a family because the pay scale is higher than most. Yet, training takes time, and most skills are learned on the job. Each foreman runs a job crew differently, so often the carpenters need to change the way they’ve always done a job to a new way that’s more efficient and time-saving—which equals bigger paychecks or bonuses.

White-collar jobs have come under fire with the statement by Mike Rowe of “Dirty Jobs” acclaim.

He warned that highly skilled white-collar workers would be replaced in the near future, but that highly skilled blue-collar workers are scarce. Most parents don’t want their sons or daughters to become plumbers, electricians, HVAC installers, or appliance repair people. They want their children to go to college.

I was one of those people not too long ago. I had our pastor and dear friend—who recently passed away in July 2025—over to dinner. He was a strong Irishman who didn’t mince words. I complained after dinner that my son Nicholas, then sixteen, did not want to go to college. Earlier, we had a conversation where he wanted to know what he had to do to take over his father’s business. Father Toner looked me right in the eye and said, “Felice, of course, he shouldn’t go to college if he wants to work construction. He’d be brilliant at it!” And I realized he was right.

Starting an Apprenticeship

Nick began to apprentice a year later, and I tailored his class load to reflect his interests. He studied oceanography—something he loved. He worked on mechanics, small appliances, and tool repair. At sixteen, he had a thriving repair business for coaches at the ball field who owned landscaping businesses. He’d repair the tools for a fraction of the cost of taking them into the shop and still made over $20-25 an hour.

My oldest son also worked in construction for many years, until he opted for a job at a high-end furniture store, a role that suited him much better than construction. He made a very good salary that included generous tips. This son is my “problem child” and has switched jobs many times; he currently drives for a rideshare company, which suits his night-owl tendencies. Blue-collar work is not always easy, and many people, including my oldest, want something that is easy and pays well. This isn’t always possible. My second part podcast, which will air next, will discuss why some people have difficulty being successful in a job and it has little to do with skill.

The Future of AI and Blue-Collar Jobs

So, what is the future of AI and blue-collar jobs? From my perspective as a homeschool mom who’s seen the value in hands-on trades through my own family’s experiences, it’s a mix of caution and hope. AI is advancing rapidly, but it’s not the doomsday scenario for every job out there. Analysts predict that while AI could affect at least 80% of the U.S. labor force by impacting 10% or more of their work tasks, blue-collar roles—especially skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC—are poised to thrive. Why? These jobs often require physical dexterity, on-site problem-solving, and human judgment that AI and robots struggle to replicate fully right now.

In fact, AI is more likely to augment these workers, making them more productive by handling data analysis, predictive maintenance, or safety monitoring in industries like utilities and farming. Think of it as a tool that saves time and reduces risks, rather than a complete replacement. Plus, with blue-collar jobs offering stability and high pay—by 2030, the U.S. will be short over 2 million skilled trade workers, leading companies to raise wages to attract talent—these careers honor the dignity of hard work and provide for families while aligning with God’s call to stewardship.

That said, no one’s entirely immune.

Experts warn that AI-enabled robots could start encroaching on some blue-collar areas, like basic construction or logistics, in the next decade, and broader economic shifts from AI might indirectly affect demand. But here’s the encouraging part, especially for us as Christian parents raising the next generation: As Mike Rowe points out, blue-collar shortages are real, and AI might exacerbate that by automating low-skill entry points, but it elevates the need for human expertise.

For our kids, this means focusing on trades could lead to stable, well-paying careers that align with biblical values of hard work and stewardship, like in Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings.” The key? Reskilling will be essential; by 2025, many employees might need it due to tech changes. As homeschoolers, we have the flexibility to prepare our children with practical skills now, blending faith, education, and real-world training. For more insights, check out resources like The Epoch Times articles on jobs surviving AI and Fox News on blue-collar opportunities.

7 Points on Vocational Training While Homeschooling

To help you explore this further, here are seven additional points on vocational training while homeschooling. Each includes potential outcomes for your child (sorry the teacher in me just can’t resist!). Some of the outcomes cover building confidence, financial independence, and a sense of purpose as well as other resources tailored for Christian homeschool families.

I’ve drawn from sites that align with encouraging blue-collar paths as honorable, God-given callings, and included references to my own Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes where they fit. Please note that I do not have firsthand knowledge of all these websites; however, I am familiar with some. Please do your  own due diligence when considering these options for your family.

1. Apprenticeships in Trades:

   Start with on-the-job shadowing or formal apprenticeships in carpentry, electrical, or plumbing. In our state you can begin at sixteen, however you must complete an OSHA approved course.
   Outcome: Kids gain hands-on experience, earn while learning, and often secure full-time jobs post-high school, avoiding college debt while developing discipline and problem-solving skills rooted in real work.
   Resource: Check out the OSHA website. My grandson worked through an approved class with a printed certificate. There are limitations on what teens sixteen and seventeen can do on a job site. Another resource is The Unlikely Homeschool, which offers practical tips for homeschool high schoolers, including how to set up apprenticeships safely. Also, check out our Vintage Homeschool Moms episode, “7 Ways to Earn High School Credits,” for information on crediting apprenticeships toward graduation.

2. Online Vocational Courses for Trades:

   Enroll in flexible online programs covering basics like mechanics or tool repair, which your teen can do alongside homeschool studies. I do not have first hand knowledge of these, other than what I read on the website, so check them out before opting in.
   Outcome: Builds a portfolio of skills leading to certifications, higher starting pay (e.g., $20-25/hour as in my son’s early repair business, although YouTube was his instructor). These include entrepreneurial opportunities that foster independence and stewardship.
   Resource: Path to Pro’s free on-demand training program teaches transferable soft skills and trade knowledge.

3. Trade School Prep for Homeschoolers:

   If you don’t have a friend or relative who can give your child on-the-job training, consider a vocational school as a post-homeschool option, focusing on blue-collar careers such as HVAC or welding.
   Outcome: Shorter training (often 1-2 years) leads to debt-free entry into high-demand jobs paying $50,000+ annually, promoting family stability and the dignity of labor as mentioned in Colossians 3:23 (Whatever your task, work heartily, as serving the Lord and not men…)
   Resource Check Out: BridgePath Prep’s guide, specifically designed for homeschoolers, on trade school paths.

4. Family Business or Entrepreneurship Training:
   

   Incorporate business skills into homeschooling, like starting a small repair or landscaping service. My children grew up with parents who own their own businesses. We have several businesses, a publishing/media company (MediaAngels.com,  United Inspection Services, a home-inspection business, and Gerwitz Construction.)
   Outcome: Teaches financial literacy, work ethic, and family teamwork, potentially leading to owning a business that provides for generations while honoring God’s provision.
   Resource: Our Vintage Homeschool Moms episode “Fun Summer Projects: Family Business and Entrepreneurs” has ideas to get started. I’ve spoken on the topic of a family business at several homeschool conferences, and this is of interest to many homeschool families. Blue Collar Edu platform exposes kids to career opportunities in trades.

5. Virtual Trade Schools:

   Use online platforms for simulated training in skilled trades, accessible from home.
   Outcome: Prepares teens for certifications without leaving your homeschool routine, leading to flexible careers that fit family life and allow for ministry or missions work.
   Resource: The Blue Collar Recruiter’s Virtual Trade School offers affordable paths to careers like skilled trades.

6. Community and Co-op Vocational Programs:

   Join homeschool co-ops or church groups offering trade workshops. Ask your neighbors, your friends in your homeschool group or your church. Does someone know someone who is interested in hosting a session for homeschoolers?
   Outcome: Builds community, accountability, and social skills, resulting in well-rounded young adults ready for blue-collar roles that serve others, echoing Jesus’ carpenter roots. And, my husband is a carpenter, so there is a bit of bias here!

7. Certification-Focused Homeschool Electives:

   Tailor high school courses around repair, mechanics, or construction certifications.
   Outcome: Equips kids with marketable skills for immediate employment, boosting self-esteem and aligning with Proverbs 16:3’s call to commit work to the Lord.
   Resource: Penn Foster Career School offers online vocational programs suitable for homeschoolers. Bridgeway Academy’s Christian homeschool options include customizable vocational tracks. True North Academy offers an accredited Trade Tech Diploma designed for completion in two years and includes advising for families.

I know many parents have changed their minds about the importance of college. And, I agree that it is not the goal for many families.

I hope this podcast has helped you sort out some of the questions you might have. Next up is a podcast that focuses on jobs, but in the sense of prerequisites that are important for students to have before entering the job force! Thanks for joining me on Vintage Homeschool Moms. Remember, whether your child pursues tech, trades, or something in between, God has a plan for their life!

Visit ultimateradioshow.com and VintageHomeschoolMoms.com for more episodes. Until next time, I’ll talk to you soon, take care, and God bless!

The post AI, Trades, and the Future of Work: What Homeschoolers Need to Know appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Homeschooling is the right choice, but how do you avoid the homeschool pitfalls that will sabotage your success? In this podcast, veteran homeschool mom Felice Gerwitz shares her thirty-two years of experience with you!

Visit the Media Angels website for books, and bundles, especially the self-paced set, “How-to-Homeschool Blueprint.”

Did you know that I was hesitant to try homeschooling? When I heard a friend mention her hopes of homeschooling, I talked her out of it! This friend was overwhelmed with her four children, didn’t have a set bedtime, and walked around sleep deprived. I explained that homeschooling took some discipline and that having a parent who was awake and attentive was important! When I began homeschooling some time after, this friend was upset with me! And, rightly so.

Your decision to homeschool should be your own, and being persuaded by someone, even someone well-meaning, is not a good thing!

Today homeschooling is the best option for your children. You know the state of the school system. It was bad in the past; today, it is worse. Parental rights are called into question. What the heck is going on in our world?

When I began homeschooling my son while my daughter was in preschool, I looked at it as a way to help my struggling learner. It was a short-term goal. In other words, I was “trying” homeschooling without thinking of making it past six months. This was in 1986-87, and I never looked back. It became a lifestyle for us, and I built relationships with my children that are strong to this day, even as they are adults.

One of the fallacies is making your homeschool ideal or identical to the public or private school. Having said this, there is always an exception to the rule. My sister-in-law homeschooled her two grandkids for a year using the same books as the school because they planned on reintegrating the children into the school system. In this case, it was a good idea, and she was not only highly successful, but she was also able to raise their test scores with the one-on-one attention she gave the girls.

It is not fun; all fun and games. A good friend of mine used to say homeschooling is not fun, yet she homeschooled her boys K-12, and they not only learned several foreign languages but were proficient in fencing. How is that not fun?

I am going to go through a list of pitfalls in two parts. The first deals with hearsay about homeschooling, and the second is in regard to the act of homeschooling. Please join our Facebook group if you have questions about homeschooling or want to connect. Homeschool Podcast Network Family

Homeschool Pitfalls – Combatting the Lies:

1. You do not have enough time.
2. You don’t have an education degree.
3. You work full-time.
4. It is too restrictive.
5. You have to recreate the school at home (use all the same books)
6. Your kids won’t get into a good college.
7. You won’t have time for yourself, and you won’t have a break from your kids.
8. People who homeschool are strange.
9. Your home is too small, and there is no room.
10. You don’t have money to homeschool.

Homeschool Pitfalls — Challenges

1. Lack of vision or goal
2. Lack of organization
3. Unruly children
4. No routine
5. Failure to check the schoolwork
6. Uncompleted assignments
7. Unsocialized kids
8. Unable to play sports
9. Lack of knowledge (parent)
10. Unable to teach

Homeschooling is what you make it. If your children are unruly, the focus needs to be getting the kids under control. Teaching cause and effect is amazingly successful. I have several podcasts in a collection I call “Just For Kids” (search for that term, and you will find them). These are geared toward children, and they are highly effective.

Kids want to be heard and appreciated, just like us! Listen to their needs and focus on the entire child, not just academics. I know you can do it, and don’t forget to join our Facebook group – Homeschool Podcast Network Family on Facebook or share your concerns in this post on the website.

The post Avoiding Homeschool Pitfalls: Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

When does fall learning start? It starts now. Before long, we will turn over the calendar (or swipe right or up) on a digital device and see that the holidays are approaching. We have a fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas…three in a row! What is a busy homeschool mom to do? In this episode, Felice shares how she prepares for the active months with an action plan.

Thanks to our ongoing sponsor, CTCMath.com, and their excellent math curriculum for grades K-12

How many of you have planned out your entire year until Christmas? Raise your hand. Okay, so if not, no worries, I will help! First, I recommend you get on our email list and sign up for our latest planners. I have an ongoing series of monthly Organize It Planners for the year. These planners are chock-full of tips you can implement quickly. You will receive a new topic free each month. The upcoming Organize It is for October, with information on preparing your home for the forthcoming holidays.

Cooler Months – Ripe for Fall Learning

During the cooler months, planning things that take the children outdoors is nice. If you have younger children, you may want to add seasonal activities, such as fall crafts. You can also jumpstart the fall decorations by making paper chains using fall colors. I have some links to podcasts on the topics.

One of my favorite topics to study was trees and their types of leaves; if you’re blessed to live in the north, you have the full array of fall leaves coming soon! For those of us in the South, it means taking a trip up north or learning about these things via a book or online. Then there are the fall activities such as parties, fairs, cooking contests, and many other things that we, as homeschoolers, want to take advantage of. Often, harvest parties begin in October … then there is Thanksgiving, and around the corner, Christmas. Christmas quickly takes over the entire month of December. Between baking, shopping, and activities, there doesn’t seem to be much time left at school.

So, what is a busy mom to do? Well, the best thing I can advise is to get as much done as possible before the holidays, including school. As homeschoolers, we sometimes fit our household into our homeschool or our homeschool into our family. I’ve received emails from many people who have said when they’ve done an excellent job homeschooling, they’ve done a lousy job managing their homes, and vice versa. Well, you can do both.

So, first things first, how much time do you have?

Fall Learning Action Plan:

The age-old question. Well, let’s start with this:

1. What is your daily routine?
2. What is today’s job, and what is tomorrow’s job?
3. What are your non-negotiable? (Taking care of your family, eating, and sleeping fall into this category!)
4. Distractions? How can we combat these?
5. What is the next upcoming event this week? This month? And for the next three months?

Now that you have an overview and overview of how to plan, let’s get going! What do you want to get done this month? With fall on the horizon or whatever the next big thing is, it is essential to use these pockets of time and focus on learning. At the beginning of each school year, you should look at the books or curriculum you plan to use and decide how long it will take you to complete in one school year. It may take six weeks or more to complete if it is a detailed unit you are studying.

Another thing to consider is using the days the kids are doing well and doubling up on activities. We did this to keep our Fridays free. In this way, we could use Fridays as a catch-up day, or we could use it for field trips or other activities we had planned. Of course, as the children get older and schoolwork piles up, it may not be as easy to have a free day a week once you can look at your priorities, the things you have to accomplish each day and work around those items.

We completed most of our homeschooling before Thanksgiving in late August, September, October, and November. After Thanksgiving, we were lucky to meet for a full two weeks with all the extra activities planned for Christmas. Of course, after Christmas was the New Year, and this was a solid vacation time.

In the new year, most of our schoolwork was in January, February, and March. Do you see a pattern here? We focused on the times between holidays and other significant events for our family. For some of you, Easter may not be a big event, but it is in our home, and we typically take a week off, a week before Easter, and a few days afterward. After Easter, all the kids can see his summer on the horizon. Therefore, working hard on days too hot or cold to go outside is essential. My children naturally do better when there are fewer distractions. I’m sure yours do as well!

I have links in the other podcasts’ show notes with great ideas for fall activities.

Past Episodes on Fall and Activities Kids Can Do:

Celebrate Fall Baking

October Checklist- 

To purchase Checklist Planners, go here.

Thanksgiving Gifts and Crafts

DIY Crafts for Kids

Great Gifts Kids Can Make

For example, fall is an excellent time for baking. We did a lot of bulk baking that we could freeze, and when the holidays came around, we had ready-made sweet bread that we could give away as gifts, cinnamon rolls, and more. There is a baking link here: Celebrate Fall Baking.

If you don’t like to bake, perhaps you like crafts. Before Christmas, we focused on making presents for grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Gifts link here.

As the winter months get closer, use this time to spend reading together as a family. Our favorite times were reading the Little House on the Prairie and other books in front of the fireplace with cups of cocoa. These are memories you can create with your family and get some learning in there as well. We often read books that went along with the themes we were studying.

I would throw in some hands-on experiential activities to round up your fall learning. If you have read any of my books (LINK HERE), you understand my need to involve the children. As a child and even an adult, I love to learn by doing. Sure, reading it in a book and moving on is more accessible, but what about authentic learning, learning things the children will remember?

Encourage your children to set time limits to get things done, especially if you have a child who takes all day to get math done. That usually means there’s nothing else the child wants to do afterward. If we give our children those to get their schoolwork done, more than likely, they will work right along. I also encourage your children to find hobbies or things they want to pursue in our family. Children my three youngest children play sports each day, and they have to spend time practicing. If your child plays a musical instrument and has another hobby, I am sure they also need time to pursue this interest.

We want to instill values that allow our children to do what is right, not just when we’re watching them. Give them opportunities to learn independently, especially if they are old enough, then make sure you check their work each day or at least every couple of days. I remember leaving their schoolwork for a week to check, and then sometimes I would be overwhelmed by all I needed to grade and be frustrated when I saw the work was half done. If I keep up with this, it’s helpful. My husband was willing at times when I was overwhelmed. He would take over the grading, and the children disliked it because he was much stricter than I was

I hope these ideas help you to accomplish and have time for all the fun activities. Be sure to visit me at mediaangels.com. Come check out our podcast family at our Facebook group, which is a homeschooled podcast family; you can look for that or search for it. If you have any questions, contact me on our FB group.

The post Fall Homeschool Kickoff: Fresh Ideas to Reignite Learning at Home appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Are you new to homeschooling, or perhaps entering those high school years? Do you wonder how to homeschool high school? In this episode, Felice Gerwitz and Vicki Tillman (The Homeschool Highschool Podcast) discuss how to get started and the information you need to know!

Visit Vicki Tillman and the 7-Sisters at 7SistersHomeschool.com

SO you want to know how to homeschool high school…well, you came to the right place. Today’s wonderful guest is a supercharged knowledge bank of information, Vicki Tillman!

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath – visit CTCMath.com for more information and a current offer of a free subscription. These offers tend to change so hurry to grab your set.

Be sure to check out Vicki’s list for high school students to discern what track they should take.

Vicki Tillman does everything homeschool highschool! Transcripts, encouragement, and everything in between. Vicki started homeschooling about thirty years ago and times have changed yet if there were not opportunities they started them. If there were enough of us moms we’d start co-ops or debate teams or cinematography teams and, choirs. We began an umbrella school that was registered with the state of Delaware so that the high schoolers could get a transcript approved by the state.

Homeschooling opens doors. What the universities have found in this early generation, especially my older kids is that homeschoolers know how to rock things. They know how to study, they know how to motivate themselves and they actually often have better social skills than their traditionally schooled peers. So they often were campus leaders in organizations. That is so true.

Yet parents have so many questions:

1. Will this work for us?
2. Is this something that will be longterm?
3. Will our kids be able to get into colleges?
4. What kind of transcripts do I need?
5. Where can we get our books?

How do you start homeschool high school?

1. Start by joining the homeschool legal defense organization HSLDA.org 
   • At the HSLDA website, they have all the information for state requirements for high school.
2. There is no one right way to homeschool. All kids are different. What works for one may not work for the others.
3. If the student needs a transcript, they need to have a piece of paper that they graduate with that will follow them to college or even into the workforce. Employers can ask for them even ten years later
4. Know what credits you need to graduate.
   • Typically four language arts credits, between two and four maths according to what their goals are and what the state wants. They’ll need somewhere between two to four sciences. And the same with social studies. They usually need a couple of world languages. Phys ed, usually a health and then usually a fine arts credit.
   • Every state varies. That’s why we send you to HSLDA, look at their state map for more information about your particular state.
   • Sometimes God calls some kids to go into the trades or into some kind of artisan work. If that is the case they don’t need to kill themselves doing super-duper academics in high school.
   • The college-bound kids, especially if they’re going after scholarships or going to a state or a more competitive college, will want to go to the high end of things and do more vigorous curriculum.

Overview of Four Years:

1. Go over this with your teens. Sit down and discuss it, what you want to have accomplished by the time they graduate.
2. Knowing how many maths, if they’re going to a competitive college, then they need all four math.
   • So they’ll need Algebra one to Geometry, Precalc or if they’re going into a stem subject, they need the Algebra in, in middle school and go for the higher math and as Statistics.
3. For Literature. Ask do you want a free for all literature where the kids just randomly pick and you pick and you have a mixture of, of different kinds of literature? Or do you want to focus on American Lit, one year in British Lit, one year in a whole year of CS Lewis, American or World Literature? You can even concentrate on poetry for a year.
4. There is no one right way to homeschool high school. You can focus on a student’s interests. For example the histories, etc.

Career Exploration ~

Here is a list of questions high school students can ask themselves, pray and think about, from Vicki Tillman!

1. What are my strengths?
2. What are my weaknesses?
3. What is important to me? (education, just enough education, LOTS of education, working with my hands, serving my country, 9-5 working hours, travel, time for family and friends, climbing the corporate ladder, fame, predictability, time for church and volunteering, good benefits?)
4. What things have I done in life already that are interesting? (Career-focused or not)
5. Who are the most influential people in my life? What do they do for a career and volunteering?
6. What has God already shown me about me? (Career-related or not)
7. What careers might be interesting to me? (Do I already know? If not, what can I do to try on some new hats? Field trips? Volunteering at new places? Reading some biographies? Interviewing people in various jobs?)

The post How To Homeschool High School (replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Sponsored by CTC Math.

What are some fun summer projects? What about starting a family business? Summer seems to be a good time to have fun, but it also is a great time to think about a business for the entire family. Are you ready, here are some great ideas to get you started.

Visit my website at MediaAngels.com for great books  and classes.

Years ago I gave a talk at a state homeschool conference on family businesses, and then later at a smaller conference and there was a real interest in working from home. When we fast-forward today we find that many businesses are cropping up online and are based at home. I grew up with a family that was self-employed. My parents owned a bakery…(more on podcast).

We have been conservative in our investments and our businesses and we’ve never had a business not succeed – so, I feel a little bit qualified to give you some advice about beginning a home business. There are many questions you should ask yourself and the teacher in me always starts with the questions…because it is a great place to begin.

Keys to beginning a home business:

(Details are on the podcast – here is the short list)

1. Keep it simple.
2. Learning curve.
3. Is there a demand?
4. What makes your product stand out?
5. What is the start-up costs?
6. Do you know how to write a marketing plan?
7. How much time are you willing to invest?
8. How are you willing to do it right?
9. Is this something you can do on the side until it can be a standalone job?
10. How much do you love this idea?

Our kids worked and helped in our business throughout their time as homeschoolers. There were book sales and books to pack and ship, they helped with all aspects of the business that were within their ability. One of my children, Christina (now an adult) was the co-author of a three-book series we wrote together. She learned firsthand that there is no free lunch it takes work and perseverance. There is a booth at homeschool conferences, there are speeches to write and to give, and there is selling online and websites – business cards to design and slogans or catchphrases to create. If you want something that keeps the family together and teaches a good work ethic, this is it.

Well, what do you think? Do you have the next best idea? Well then, I hope you look through these suggestions, add some of your own and let me know if I left anything out that I should have added in the comment section below –

Check out these Information in a Nutshell books about Business!

The post Fun Summer Projects: Family Business and Entrepreneurs (replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Sponsored by CTC Math

Cultural Learning ~ Episode 562 with Leah Farish

Leah is an award-winning attorney, author, and speaker who has not only homeschooled but represented homeschooling families.  Her podcast, Conversation Balloons, is in Spotify’s Top 25% and is on YouTube and all the other main platforms.  Her website is LeahFarish.com

Introduction to Cultural Learning in Homeschooling

Leah shares her journey from a legal career to homeschooling her children, emphasizing the value of cultural learning. We explore how cultural exposure can enhance a child’s education, broadening a homeschooling approach. Cultural learning is often overlooked in traditional education, but homeschooling offers unique opportunities to integrate it meaningfully. Leah’s background as a homeschooling parent and her passion for cultural diversity provide a compelling case for why this topic matters.

Leah’s Homeschooling Journey

Leah never planned to homeschool. As a former attorney and certified teacher, she trusted professional educators—her family was full of them! But when her son’s Montessori school didn’t meet his needs, she felt called to take charge. We hear how she balanced her legal career with homeschooling by focusing on what only she could offer her kids and delegating the rest, like driving to art classes. Her story is a great example for busy parents wondering how to make homeschooling work.

Why Cultural Learning Matters

Leah’s childhood travels with her pilot father sparked her love for other cultures, and she wanted her kids to share that appreciation. We explore how learning about different people and traditions builds humility and respect for your own heritage while opening kids’ eyes to the world. It’s about helping them grow into thoughtful, curious individuals who value the beauty of diversity.

Fun Ways to Bring Cultures Home

Leah shares creative ideas for making cultural learning a part of homeschooling. From hosting international students for dinner to throwing a Brazilian culture party with 50 kids, she shows how to make learning hands-on and fun. We hear stories of her kids meeting people from Syria, China, and beyond, tasting new foods, and asking quirky questions like, “Do they spank kids in Brazil?” These tips are perfect for parents looking to spark their kids’ curiosity about the world.

Diving into Languages and Traditions

Language learning and cultural immersion go hand in hand, and Leah’s family embraced both. We laugh over her kids’ attempts to learn Chinese and their mission trip to Mexico, where her daughter declared, “I love my language!” These moments show how homeschooling lets you personalize cultural experiences, whether it’s practicing Spanish with new friends or discovering unique traditions like fencing as a sport.

Connecting Faith and Culture

Leah and Felice talk about the spiritual side of cultural learning, like attending a worship service on a ski slope or visiting St. Peter’s in Rome. We see how these experiences teach kids about the unity of faith across cultures and strengthen family values. Whether it’s exploring a local synagogue or a Greek Orthodox church, these moments help kids connect with their beliefs and the world around them.

Navigating Homeschooling Laws

Leah, with her legal background, sheds light on the challenges some homeschoolers face as lawmakers push for more oversight. We discuss truancy laws and the need to know your state’s rules—check out HSLDA’s website for details. Her insights help parents feel confident in their rights while navigating the system, especially in states where homeschooling feels under threat.

Building Community Through Homeschooling

Homeschooling fosters independence and creativity, and Leah points to studies showing homeschoolers are more likely to vote and volunteer. We also learn how some states let homeschoolers join public school sports or music programs, giving kids the best of both worlds. It’s all about finding local resources to make your kids’ education well-rounded and connected.

Creating a Lasting Homeschool Legacy

Leah wraps up by reflecting on the legacy of homeschooling. We hear how following her instincts and faith led to a rewarding experience for her family. Her story inspires parents to trust their gut and create an education that blends cultural learning with their unique values, leaving a lasting impact on their kids.

Get Inspired and Take Action

Felice closes the episode with a call to explore cultural learning at Vintage Homeschool Moms. Check out Leah’s podcast, Conversation Balloons, and visit her website at leahfarish.com for more. Subscribe to the podcast, share it with friends, and start bringing the world into your homeschool today!

The post Cultural Learning, Homeschooling and More appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

This episode sponsored by CTC Math.

There are secrets, and then there are homeschooling secrets that you should know. This podcast is not for the faint-hearted! Here we will discuss the truth that, as the Scriptures say, will set you free! This podcast is brought to you by Felice Gerwitz, who will share her top tips for her thirty-two years of homeschooling. Buckle up!

Would you like an open-it-and-go unit study for the entire family? Try Media Angels, unit studies, and great planners to get organized. These can be found on the store page at MediaAngels.com

Considering Homeschooling

As a young married woman with my first child on the way, I didn’t consider homeschooling, nor was it on my radar. Many years later, I found myself at playgroups with a toddler and hearing people discuss the possibility, so I did what any sane person would do and talked them out of the idea. After all, did they have teaching degrees or certifications as I did? I wasn’t planning on homeschooling but returning to teaching once my school-aged children were enrolled.

What happened instead was after some frustrating meetings with the school system, it turned out my oldest child had mild learning issues and was speech delayed. I placed him in a private school and my daughter in a high-end-high-dollar preschool. I began to research and met a friend whose husband was a doctor, and she herself had a master’s in education and began homeschooling her daughter. She helped me put things in perspective.

After my first frustrating year, I found that I had to make my own decisions and what worked best for my family. Other than following whatever the laws are in your state (and I would have moved if our laws were like some states which mandate what books you can use), we were free to learn in a way that was best for my kids.

I’ve broken these secrets down into various categories. The first is just general information about how to look at homeschooling, the second regards parenting, the third is practical, regarding curriculum, and the last is important in regard to household chores and meals.

So here you go some top-secret tips to help you in your homeschool planning:

Homeschooling Secrets 101 ~ General

1. Decide your homeschooling philosophy – just like a business has a slogan, come up with one for your family. This will help, I promise. We brainstormed as a family and came up with things like: We are stronger together, Gerwitz Strong, and what we decided upon: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15)
2. Know why you are homeschooling. Is it academic? Is it to help your child with their worldview? Is it to give your child a stable family life? Is it to help your child spiritually or psychologically? Is it for a reason, learning advanced or learning delayed? Is it to avoid the issues plaguing education in our world today?
3. Get a support group, whether it is a best friend who has your back, your spouse, or a good homeschool support group.
4. Ignore well-meaning extended family members who think they know what is best. Polite responses include, “Bless your heart; thank you so much for sharing your opinion with me.” It goes a long way instead of arguing your point. (Tell the story of tongue twisters.)
5. Select a time frame to homeschool. I am going to do this for one year, etc. Time Management for Parents.

Homeschooling Secrets 101 ~ Parenting

1. Create Memories – Family Bonding Time
2. Know you are the parent and are in charge. Obedience is not an option, and getting the kids on board is important. Set boundaries. Tell the kids what you expect during a typical homeschool day.
3. Give kids time to think. Blog post here
4. Set rewards upon completion of work at the end of the week.
5. Catch them doing going and encourage the—power of words.

Homeschooling Secrets 101 ~ Curriculum & Planning

1. Learning begins with life lessons, at home and outside of the home, through hands-on exploration.
2. Begin with research, and start with Cathy Duffy’s website of top curriculum picks. 101-102
3. Podcasts – Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network – search any topic
4. Plan your year – summer is best. Break down your books with monthly/weekly goals
5. Keep Friday open if at all possible – doable in younger years. Catch-up day, field trips, etc.

Homeschooling Secrets 101 ~ Household

1. Plan once and forget it. Meals, laundry day, etc.
2. Routines rather than schedules. Every day is the same, with some revisions (laundry etc.)
3. All hands on deck. Enlist the kid’s help with chores.
4. Bulk cooking, so meals are easy during the school week. (Make double each meal and freeze)
5. Plan trips on one day. Doctor, lessons, grocery (order online and pick up).

Overall the secret to homeschooling is to be true to yourself and your goals and vision. Once I lost that, I floundered. With my oldest two, I had more energy being younger, more resources, and more time overall. When I had my next three after a gap of some years (My story is here), my oldest daughter reminded me to make learning fun for my youngest kids. I did this by adding some hands-on activities like science fair projects and history fairs, giving them time to think and delve into their interests. I also added extracurricular activities like sports; my children, the youngest three, were very good athletes and played competitively and in college. This focus and motivation helped tremendously in their school work.

My homeschool journey felt never-ending at times, but I was committed and all in – the result is we have a family that is very close to each other. My youngest kids even roomed together for a year in college. I have kids who love the Lord and are faithful and, best of all, who know that we are there for them no matter what lies ahead. We are a family, and we are there for each other. And that is the best outcome I could hope for, and I pray that for all of you as well.

The post Homeschooling Secrets appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Your weekly homeschool schedule is perhaps one of the most important aspects of an easy flowing and on track homeschool year. Yet, I have a love-hate relationship with all things scheduled. In this podcast, I share tried and true methods, the difference between schedules and routines and how to mesh a free-spirit with a paper-trail that validate that yes, you did homeschool this year.

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• Check out these shows: Best Homeschooling Advice
• Learn what methods of homeschooling will work best for you and your family with the Homeschool Mom’s Test

When you think about planning your homeschool you think big picture. The overall goals of your homeschool as well as the books and subjects you will cover that year. When you consider your weekly homeschool schedule, now it is time to break it up into manageable bits that can be accomplished in a day, and ultimately in one week. You can easily manage this plan with a good planner. I love the Well Planned Gal planners and wish these were available when I began homeschooling.

Planning means asking yourself specific questions before you plan your weekly homeschool schedule:

1. Do you like specific schedules or are you a routine planner?
2. If you like schedules – will you make an overall schedule of your homeschool day, and then break it up for each of the kids?
3. Or if you like routines. Will you set up some daily routines – an overall and for the kids?
4. Or if you like some scheduling or some routines, how will you combine this in your overall and daily homeschool plan.
5. Does your student have extracurricular activities such as dance, art, music lessons, sports that they need to practice or train for?
6. Do you have multi-aged children? I’ve included a screenshot of my daughter’s homeschool planning sheets and how she incorporates the older children’s school with the younger ones. Having specific school only learning toys for the younger children is a wonderful way to keep them occupied as you school.

Once you answer these questions it will be easier to make a plan. As you probably realize without me telling you is that homeschoolers rarely fit into one, nice, neat box. There are things that overlap our day. Besides school, we have the busy life of a mom with all the household chores and obligations. I will share some ways to simplify this with you – and hopefully, it will take some of the stress of planning away.

The most important take away in this podcast is to realize that you can change and tweak your plan all year long. If something does not work don’t think you have to continue it all year long. *Listen to this podcast as Felice shares her math curriculum nightmare her first year of homeschooling her son, Neal.

Depending on the method you use, there will be a different emphasis on how you set up your day and your weekly homeschool schedule.

Here is an example of several methods and how you might structure your week – and then work on your daily schedule. One thing I have not discussed is homeschooling co-ops. I have a love-hate relationship with co-ops because as you’ve probably guessed I’m an overachiever and many times the bulk of the teaching and planning. I did like co-ops for teaching lab sciences such as biology especially and when the children were younger with group projects such as history—studying a period of time, or an indebt unit on creation science. (Listen to the CreationSciencePodcast.com).

If you are involved in a co-op your daily schedule will work around co-op times. Some co-ops are very involved where the main bulk of the teaching is completed at a paid facility on Monday and Wednesday and the parent homeschools on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday or vice versa. If you are part of a co-op you will plan with the organization or your group of homeschool friends and work out the details of what you will be responsible for teaching at home.

One thing – and I plan to do a podcast on the role of a homeschool teacher. A teacher is a facilitator –someone who engages your child in learning in a way that is interesting and enticing a child’s natural curiosity to learn. We all hear stories of the teacher’s that love to “blow things up,” to gain a child’s attention. We as moms with so much on our plate, especially if we are teaching multiple children or grades may feel this is too much. One bit of advice, allow your child time to explore and delve into the things that interest them, and you can provide these things through time. Again, I don’t have the time I’d like to explain more in this podcast, but it is upcoming soon!

My advice, if you are not using a set curriculum is to look at what you’d like to accomplish for the week, and then break it down into days.

Obviously, if you are unschooling it will surround your child’s interests as the basis of studying. If you have a budding chef, you may plan your day around a food shopping list, time to experiment, the chemistry of foods and mixtures, temperatures and how the effects cooking, nutrition and foods effect on the body.

So planning for your weekly homeschool schedule may look like this:

1. Monday – decide on what you want to cook, collect different recipes, compare them and make a list of ingredients.
2. Tuesday – studying the nutritional effects of the ingredients and how to make a healthier version –editing the ingredients list.
3. Wednesday—look at the temperatures needed to cook. Study the effects of chemical reactions in the food.
4. Thursday – Friday – purchase and create various versions of the recipe – tweak and enjoy.

While unschooling is allowing your child time to explore a subject or area of interest, those who do it well have a loose organization of skills that can be compiled before or after your child has experimented, researched or learned.

Those who use Thomas Jefferson or the Classical Method will have particular books or studies and a well planned day filled with reading and study that builds upon itself year after year.

Unit Studies:

For unit studies, your days will look different as well. You may have a Monday – Wednesday schedule as well as a Tuesday – Thursday schedule that are the days for reading or hands-on projects. Friday will be the catch up day. With unit studies, you will incorporate routines such as daily math and perhaps reading. Or your reading and writing will surround your subject topic.

Unit studies are immersion at it’s best – a study of a topic such as American History or Government with a culmination of a visit to a history museum or political office in town. It can center, as my curriculum does on Creation topics such as Creation science – a general overview or Creation Geology, Creation Astronomy or Creation Anatomy.

Specific Weekly Homeschool Schedule: Using books or text books/ workbooks

• Use a planning sheet like this one here (Here).
• Multi-Aged Sample Weekly Homeschool Schedule

How many hours will you homeschool? Is it three, four or five times?

1. What days will you homeschool

• Monday through Friday
• Monday through Thursday
• Friday – catch up day
• ix weeks of study and one week break, year round?

2. Daily Routines/ Subjects

• Pray each morning
• Bible reading or copy verse
• Journal

3. What subjects do you want to cover each day or every other day?

• Math – daily
• Reading – daily
• Writing/ Language Arts –spelling, vocabulary (two or three times a week)

Other subjects

• History – two or three times a week alternating with …
• Science –two or three times a week
• Music – one time a week
• Art – one time a week
• Physical Education – daily
• Health – half-year, first or second semester
• Technology – coding or using technology in the classroom

4. Additional Assignments

• Projects such as Science or History Fair
• Writing or term papers
• Training or Practice
• Schedule in your child’s practice time

5. Creating a family schedule of important events.

• Holiday or Special Events
• Schedule planning time
• Plan for holidays upcoming
• Children’s events – sports, dance, etc.
• Birthdays and family celebrations

Be sure to print out the schedule sheets on the podcast page and I hope you enjoy your new school year!

The post Weekly Homeschool Schedule (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Special Replay

Are you ready for math the easy way? Enjoy my special guest Pat Murray – he’s been a math teacher and coach for more than thirty-six years.

And would you believe that Over that time, the programs and courses Pat and his company developed have helped students and families numbering in the tens and hundreds of thousands in more than seventy-two countries. So no matter where you live this information is accessible!

Pat and his beautiful wife Maree live in Sydney Australia, have 10 children, and 7 grandchildren – soon to be 8 (next month).

So, we are going to delve into seven of the most valuable tips for teaching math to kids –of all ages. I was amazed that your math programs have one low cost for a year, per family and it covers grades 1 through high school which is amazing and only a man with a big family understands what a blessing that is to parents with many children….

1. Short concise explanations – clarity is important.
2. Immediate practice – get them to practice it quickly and feedback.
3. Rote learning memorizing, times tables, important facts. [Great examples given on the audio!]
4. The sequence can make a difference. Start with the easiest stuff first, encourage success.
5. Discovery and inquiring learning that is taught first by example.
6. Puzzles and problem solving – a fun activity. Build interest.
7. Parents – avoid frustration. Kids will avoid help, due.

Pat shares a mathematical trick – kids can learn as a parent to impress their kids.

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The lessons are taught the traditional way, not to a “test”.

Each one of the video tutorials is taught by an internationally acclaimed teacher, Pat Murray, who is renowned for teaching math concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand way (and in only a few minutes at a time). Using a multi-sensory approach having the combination of effective graphics and animation synchronized with the voice of a friendly teacher together with practical assessment. This three-pronged attack makes learning so much easier and more effective. Even students who struggled with math are getting fantastic results! And ones who were doing OK before are now doing brilliantly.

Visit ctcmath.com today to start your free trial.

The post Math The Easy Way (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

     

Stress-Free Summer Learning: Homeschool Tips for Fun and Growth ~ Episode 562

Summer is a time for relaxation and family memories, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to keep your children’s learning on track. In this episode, I’ll share streamlined homeschool schedules that maintain educational momentum without overwhelming you or your kids. If you’ve listened to this podcast before, welcome back, and you know I only share practical tips that don’t break the bank! If you are new, welcome friend (or soon-to-be friend), and I hope you enjoy some ideas for short lesson plans, including unit studies, outdoor learning, and simple yet impactful activities.

Whether you’re a year-round homeschooler or just sprinkling in some summer learning when the kids are acting bored, this podcast is for you.

Thanks to our sponsor! NIV Application Bible

Why Stress-Free Summer Learning Matters

Summer can be a balancing act with vacations and family events. However, research shows that students can lose 20-25% of their reading and math gains over the summer, known as the “summer slide.” A flexible, streamlined schedule keeps kids’ brains engaged without turning summer into a grind.

The key? Flexibility. Short, meaningful activities that fit your family’s rhythm make learning feel like a refreshing summer breeze. Here’s how to make it happen.

Check out this related podcast for more summer inspiration.

Tip 1: Embrace Unit Studies for Focused, Fun Learning

What Are Unit Studies?

Unit studies are a fantastic way to streamline summer learning by diving deep into one topic, for example, oceans, dinosaurs, or space, while covering multiple subjects. For example, an ocean unit study might include:

• Science: Exploring marine life, weather, water cycles, buoyancy, or even scuba diving.
• History: Learning about the history of scuba diving
• Literature: Reading non-fiction books on the subject.
• Art: Drawing marine life or creating a coral reef diorama.

It can even be hands-on and practical. Playing in a pool or tub with items that sink or float, talking about air bubbles and compression, and asking if anyone is SCUBA certified for a hands-on lesson, or visiting a dive shop.

Why Unit Studies Work for Summer

Unit studies are flexible, interest-driven, and low-prep, making them ideal for summer. They’re perfect for multi-age homeschooling, allowing everyone to learn at their level, and they align well with Christian principles for faith-based learning.

Tailoring for Middle and High Schoolers

• Middle School: Explore biblical archaeology or stewardship with resources like Answers in Genesis or The Bible Project.
• High School: Focus on apologetics with Focus on the Family’s The Truth Project or Summit Ministries.

How to Get Started

1. Pick a Topic: Ask your kids what excites them. A library trip or family poll can spark ideas.
2. Gather Resources: Use free printables, library books, or podcasts from the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
3. Plan Lightly: Aim for a few short activities each week.
4. Incorporate Hands-On Fun: Visit an aquarium or build a model submarine from recyclables.

Unit studies make learning feel like an adventure, keeping both you and your kids stress-free!

Tip 2: Take Learning Outdoors

The Power of Outdoor Learning

Outdoor activities boost creativity, reduce stress, and improve focus, according to studies. Nature is a free, open classroom ready for exploration.

Outdoor Learning Ideas

• Nature Journaling: Sketch plants or bugs and add a Bible verse like Psalm 19:1 (“The heavens declare the glory of God”). Younger kids can record observations on a phone.
• Math in Motion: Draw number lines with sidewalk chalk or measure angles in a scavenger hunt.
• Science Experiments: Build a solar oven or test objects in a kiddie pool.
• History on the Go: Visit a local historical site or discuss community history during a neighborhood walk.

Tailoring for Middle and High Schoolers

• Middle School: Create scavenger hunts with Scripture or use iNaturalist or Other Websites Here to identify plants and animals.
• High School: Map biodiversity or photograph architecture for a church history unit with Creation Ministries International.

Tips for Success

• Keep It Simple: A blanket and books under a tree work wonders.
• Be Flexible: Schedule activities for cooler parts of the day.
• Involve Everyone: Include siblings or neighbors for group fun.

Explore our Kids’ Planner for more outdoor activity ideas.

Tip 3: Use Short, Focused Activities to Maintain Momentum

Bite-Sized Learning

Short activities fit busy summer days and keep kids engaged without feeling overwhelmed. They also leave room for spiritual growth.

Examples of Quick Activities

• Morning Read-Alouds or Devotionals: Read from the Bible, or your favorite devotional. Or you can read one of the library books on the topic you are studying.
• Flashcard Fun: Use multiplication flashcards or SAT vocabulary during breakfast.
• Podcast Challenges: Try our 7-Day Just for Kids Podcast Challenge for character-building activities.
• Daily Writing Prompts: Spark creativity with prompts like “What’s in a treasure chest?”

How to Make It Work

• Set a Loose Routine: Plan one activity daily or a few weekly.
• Use Timers: Keep sessions short and focused.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Praise efforts with high-fives or stickers (Galatians 6:9).

These quick bursts keep skills sharp while preserving summer’s joy.

Tip 4: Leverage Free Resources to Keep It Low-Cost

Where to Find Free Summer Learning Tools

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive. Try these free resources:

• Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network: Podcasts like Vintage Homeschool Moms and free printables.
• Podcast Challenge for Kids here.
• Khan Academy: Free math and science lessons.
• Answers in Genesis: Creation science and devotionals.
• The Bible Project: Animated Bible study videos.
• Christian Book: Free homeschool printables.
• Library Programs: Summer reading challenges or STEM workshops.
• Community Events: Free museum days or local festivals.