10 Skills That Make Homeschool Flow Better Sep 23, 2026

Have you ever found yourself reminding your kids about the same things over and over again?

Finish your math.

Stay focused.

Check your schedule.

Get back to work.

Why aren’t you doing the thing we already talked about?

Sometimes what looks like a behavior problem is actually a skill that hasn’t been developed yet.

In today’s episode, I’m giving you a sneak peek inside one of Emily Brown’s recent Elevate mindset classes: School and Home Skill Building. Emily walks through five skills she believes kids need to practice in order to become more capable and independent—and five skills moms need to practice in order to create a healthier, more functional homeschool.

And even after more than 20 years of homeschooling, I walked away with practical things I could use in my own home.

In this episode:

Why self-confidence is the belief that “I can do it or I can figure it out”
Helping kids discover their own reasons for doing difficult things
Using goals to build independence
Emily's whiteboard system for helping her kids plan their day
How to practice focus with small, achievable wins
Why kids need to know what “done” actually looks like
The three-question evaluation Emily uses with her kids
How moms can build belief in their children
Setting reasonable and age-appropriate expectations
Why constantly moving the finish line can break trust
Keeping shame out of skill-building
Taking responsibility for our own emotions
Celebrating our own wins as homeschool moms

Mentioned in this episode:

Elevate Membership: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/elevate

Simplification: The Best Way to Reduce Overwhelm Sep 09, 2026

What if the thing making you feel overwhelmed isn't that you're bad at managing your time?

What if you just have too much on your plate?

I know. Revolutionary.

In this episode, I'm talking with Kayse Pratt of Anchored Women about something both of us have had to wrestle with: simplification.

Kayse recently made a pretty dramatic change in her business. After 16 years of creating digital products, she found herself with 223 different products. And here's the kicker: the business whose entire mission was to help people simplify had created a product line that was actually making things more complicated.

So Kayse did something that is not easy to do.

She cut it down to four.

And that decision got us talking about what happens when we look at our own lives and realize we've done the exact same thing.

We've added good thing after good thing until our lives are completely packed.

And then we wonder why we're exhausted.

As homeschool moms, this can happen especially easily. We aren't just educating our kids. We're managing the house, feeding everybody, running people to activities, keeping up with relationships, serving at church, working jobs, and trying to maintain some semblance of spiritual life somewhere in the middle of all of it.

So how do we know what needs to stay?

And what are we actually allowed to let go?

Kayse and I talk honestly about the difficulty of simplifying, why we sometimes have to "hit the wall" before we're willing to change, and what it looks like to trust God with the things we can't control.

We also get very practical.

We're talking about making decisions once instead of over and over again, using a Top Three list, simplifying meals, creating family rhythms, and recognizing that homeschool absolutely counts as one of the things taking up your time and energy.

Because simplifying isn't about becoming more efficient so you can cram even MORE into your day.

It's about making room for the things that actually matter.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why adding good things can still leave you with an unsustainable life
How Kayse decided to cut Anchored Women from 223 products down to just four
Why simplifying can be painful before it becomes life-giving
How to recognize when you're approaching the point where something needs to change
Why homeschool belongs on your list of actual time and energy commitments
How making decisions once can dramatically reduce daily decision fatigue
How to use a simple Top Three system without pretending you have unlimited capacity
Why simple family rhythms can actually help your kids feel more secure
How to simplify meals without creating another complicated system
Why we sometimes need to let go of good things to make room for better things
How pride and our desire for control can keep us from simplifying
What Psalm 23 has taught Kayse about trusting God instead of trying to make everything happen ourselves
Why simplification isn't necessarily permanent—sometimes we're in a season of cutting back, and sometimes we're in a season of growth

Mentioned in This Episode:

Elevate--Support for the homeschool mom
Anchored Women (planning resources + community)
The Steadfast Over Scattered Planner
Brain Dump and prioritize FREE Download

Stop Trying to Homeschool the "Right" Way Aug 25, 2026

Are you doing everything “right” in your homeschool… and still wondering if you’re doing it right enough?

In this episode, I’m talking with Jeanette Pascua, a longtime homeschool mom of five, former high school theology teacher, and the editor behind much of what we create at Homeschool Better Together.

Jeanette has been homeschooling for about a decade, and her oldest is now in high school. That means she has something I think every homeschool mom desperately needs: perspective from the other side of the elementary years.

Her homeschool looks pretty different today than it did when she started. Her kids are scattered around the house doing different things, her older children have significant control over their schedules, and the whole day feels much more relaxed.

But it didn't start that way.

We talk about what it actually takes to help our kids grow into independent learners, why independence looks different for every child, and how Jeanette gradually handed over pieces of her children's education instead of throwing them into the deep end.

And then we get into something I think almost every homeschool mom has wrestled with: the pressure to do homeschooling “the right way.”

Jeanette is a Charlotte Mason homeschooler, and she talks honestly about the pressure that she puts on herself to follow this method the way others prescribe that it "should" be done.

Sound familiar?

We also talk about letting go of the perfect plan, what happens when subjects or books fall off the schedule, and the surprising reassurance that comes from watching an older child move toward high school.

Because sometimes you don't realize your homeschool is working until you get far enough down the road to look back.

What You'll Learn

How Jeanette gradually transferred responsibility for school from herself to her kids
Why independence doesn't look the same for every child
How to invite your kids into homeschool planning without handing them the whole steering wheel
The pressure to follow an educational philosophy “correctly”
Why you need to homeschool the kids actually standing in front of you
What happens when a book, subject, or entire chunk of your beautiful plan gets dropped
How reaching the high school years can give you a completely different perspective on your earlier homeschool worries
Why a homeschool that looks relaxed from the outside may actually have a lot happening underneath
How homeschooling has shaped Jeanette into a gentler, more patient mom
And, naturally, whether iced coffee counts as a homeschool snack

Jeanette also shares what she loves most about working behind the scenes at Homeschool Better Together—including the books she discovers while editing our curriculum plans.

And if you've ever looked at your homeschool plan three months into the year and realized, Wait…we're not actually doing that subject anymore, you're definitely going to want to hear this conversation.

One of my biggest takeaways from our conversation is this: balance in a homeschool isn't static. We're constantly adjusting. Sometimes something needs more attention, something else needs to take a back seat, and that's okay.

That's not failure.

That's homeschooling.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Unexpected Joy of Learning Alongside Your Kids Aug 11, 2026

Homeschooling is never a straight line. Seasons change, families grow, circumstances shift, and the way we teach our children evolves along the way.

In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I talk with Betsy Cypress, one of the curriculum writers behind Homeschool Better Together, about what it means to truly learn alongside your children.

Betsy shares her homeschool journey—from raising five children and graduating her oldest, to unexpectedly welcoming four additional students into her homeschool after the loss of a close friend. Through that season, she discovered even more deeply that homeschooling together isn’t just about making lessons easier—it’s about building relationships, creating community, and learning through life’s challenges.

We also dive into the process behind creating Wonder Studies, including:

why picture books can open the door to deeper learning
how curriculum can serve as a springboard rather than the finish line
why conversations and connections often become the most meaningful parts of homeschooling
how learning alongside your children changes the way you teach
why consistency and loving kindness matter more than perfection

Whether your homeschool has one child or many, whether you are adding students or watching them leave the nest, this conversation is an encouragement to embrace your current season and discover the wonder waiting there.

What You’ll Learn:

Betsy’s unique homeschool story and how her family adapted through major transitions
How multi-age homeschooling can create connection and community
Why learning alongside your children benefits both parents and kids
How Wonder Studies help families explore topics through beautiful books and meaningful discussion
Encouragement for homeschool moms who are trying to stay faithful in challenging seasons

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Wonder Studies https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/wonder-studies-annual-access
Through Sand and Salt: A Tale of Discovery Across the Sahara by Elizabeth Zunon
Deserts Wonder Study
The William Hoy Story by Nancy Churnin
Baseball Wonder Study
Magic Ramen: The Story of Momofuku Ando by Andrea Wang
Japan Wonder Study
Adventures with Waffles by Maria Parr

All About Slow Mornings and Sidestepping the Comparison Trap Jul 28, 2026

Ever found yourself eyeing someone’s “Pinterest pretty” homeschool and wondered if you’re missing something? Today, I’m sitting down with Katy Wallace—our very own graphic designer at Homeschool Better Together—to pull back the curtain on what “real” homeschooling actually looks like. Katy is not just a talented visual visionary—she’s an Alabama homeschool mom of teens, an accidental chicken-keeper, and someone who swore she’d never give up the corporate grind. (Spoiler: she did.)

We’re getting personal about how both of us landed in the world of homeschooling when it was NOT on our radar, how our school days have shifted as our families have grown, and what happens when your high schoolers start flying the nest. Katy shares how her creative side spills into her homeschool days (yes, there was sidewalk chalk involved), and why she never joined a co-op—plus how she deals with comparison and all the “shoulds” that come with doing things a little differently.

We laugh about slow mornings and Southern accents, dig into why beautiful curriculum actually makes a difference, and talk honestly about sanctification, flexibility, and how homeschooling will expose all your perfectionist tendencies…and why that’s not a bad thing.

This one is for every homeschool mom who’s wondered if she’s the only one doing it her own way (hint: you’re not). Join us for a down-to-earth conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged, seen, and a lot less alone.

What you’ll learn:

Katy’s totally unexpected journey from corporate life to rural homeschool mom and graphic designer
The “normal” (and not-so-normal) homeschool days—slow mornings, morning baskets, and navigating high school independence
What actually changes (and what doesn’t) when your kids become teens and start dual enrollment or get part-time jobs
Why Katy never found a co-op that fit and how she avoids the comparison trap
The surprising impact beautiful curriculum design has on our homeschool mood and function (and how clutter really messes with us!)
Pep talks on perfectionism, the myth of having it all figured out, and learning to embrace flexibility—even when you’re more “planner” than “free spirit”
How faith, prayer, and real-life messiness shape our days more than the right planner or perfect routine
Honest talk on the sanctifying work of homeschooling (it’ll grow you just as much as your kids)

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot (step-by-step planning system):
The Elevate Program with Finishers Club + live planning accountability:
Science Together
Heaven is Having You by Giles Andreae
Epposumondas by Coleen Salley

How I Make My Homeschool Plan Work Every Year Jul 14, 2026

Ever feel like your homeschool planner is just a guilt trip in a spiral binding? Been there, bought the (overly ambitious) boxed curriculum, cried all over it. In this episode, I’m peeling back the curtain on my own 23-year planning evolution—the good, the bad, and the “how did we get this far off track?” moments.

If your school year starts hopeful, but quickly turns into a flip-and-flop scramble between “we’re already behind in math” and “wait, who moved the lesson plans again?”, you’re not alone. I’ve walked that tightrope between Pinterest-perfect plans and the reality of messy, beautiful family life.

Today, I’m breaking down:

Why your planning approach might actually be feeding your overwhelm
The not-so-glamorous backstory of my own planning fails (and what finally clicked)
Why I finally ditched those one-size-fits-none grid schedules for a plan that actually works

And yes—we’re going deep on my absolute favorite strategy: Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot. Honestly? Total game-changer for ditching the chaos, the guilt, and the endless Sunday-night planner panic.

If you’re ready for practical peace, more consistent days, and just a tad more joy in your homeschool, you’ll find all kinds of hope in this conversation.

What you’ll learn:

How boxed curricula and rigid schedules can set you up for stress and comparison (yep, I lived it)
The ugly truth about planning “shoulds” vs. what actually fits your real life
Why a big-picture vision beats lesson-plan whack-a-mole every time
The simple shift that freed up my weekends—and gave me back my sanity
How to build a homeschool plan that’s flexible, realistic, and totally guilt-proof
The underrated superpower of periodic reviews and “just do the next thing” lists
Why planning in the summer is my secret weapon for a strong finish—no more mid-year meltdown

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot (step-by-step planning system): https://shop.homeschoolbettertogether.com/products/put-your-homeschool-year-on-autopilot
The Elevate Program with Finishers Club + live planning accountability: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/elevate

How to Elevate Your Homeschool Jun 30, 2026

Are you tired of feeling like you have to have all the answers (and keep every colored-pencil-coded planner page perfect)? You’re not alone—in fact, that’s exactly why we created Elevate.

In today’s episode, I’m talking with Emily Brown, certified life coach and the new owner of Homeschool Better Together, about what moms REALLY need to thrive in their homeschool (spoiler: it’s not just the “right curriculum”). We’re opening up about decision fatigue, unrealistic expectations, self-doubt, burnout, and why you don’t have to go it alone. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re the only one struggling to stay consistent (or just wondered if you’re the only “normal” homeschool mom who hides in the laundry room to regroup), you’re going to feel seen.

We also share how community, mindset shifts, and permission to invest in you breathe life into your homeschool journey. Plus, we spill all the details about Elevate—the new membership designed specifically to encourage, equip, and connect homeschool moms, all year long.

What you’ll learn:

The biggest struggles homeschool moms face—beyond curriculum (and why no one talks about them enough)
Why community and mentorship are game-changers for your peace and confidence
What unrealistic expectations and “mom guilt” really cost us (and what to do instead)
Practical ways to feed your mind, heart, and faith—even in the most chaotic seasons
How to spot and break out of the “I don’t know” spiral (it’s not you, it’s decision fatigue)
What you actually get inside Elevate (and why we’re obsessed with making it affordable and flexible)
Tips for getting real support (free or paid) so you never feel isolated again

Resources mentioned:

Join the free Homeschool Better Together Community
Elevate Membership: access to masterclasses, co-working, mentorship, and ongoing support (now open!): https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/elevate/

Dawn Garrett Reflects: Connection in Your Homeschool that Lasts Jun 16, 2026

Are you craving more connection and less chaos in your homeschool life? This week, I got to sit down with the brilliant Dawn Garrett, Homeschool Better Together’s community manager and an experienced homeschool mom whose kids have all graduated and flown the nest. (Yes, she survived—she’s living proof.)

We got candid about what “togetherness” really looked like in her homeschool. Dawn shared the honest ups and downs: the seasons when being together at the table was the perfect fit—and the moments when togetherness just wasn’t working. Hear how she pivoted, created new rhythms, faced those inevitable sibling squabbles, and nurtured the deep family bonds that have lasted well into her kids’ adulthood.

We also dug into the importance of community for moms—especially when overwhelm strikes. Dawn dishes on finding mentors, being encouraged by fellow homeschoolers, and how relationships with both your kids and other moms are what really matter, long after the worksheets are graded.

This one is jam-packed with real talk, encouragement, and more than a few laugh-out-loud stories—because let’s be honest, if you’ve never measured your day by whether someone’s book crossed “the tape line” at the kitchen table, are you even homeschooling?

What you’ll learn:

Dawn’s “origin story”—why she went all-in on homeschooling (spoiler: the desire started long before kids arrived)
The power of morning time as the anchor for their best homeschool days—and what happened when she had to let it go
Why being together is beautiful… until it isn’t (and how to recognize when it’s time to try something new)
The messy, hilarious reality of sibling relationships at home (and the infamous masking tape table trick)
How the atmosphere you create—over years—helps kids remain connected long after graduation (yes, even when you thought they might never stop bickering)
Simple, practical ways to foster relationships, reconciliation, and wonder at your homeschool table—even on days you want to wave the white flag
Why community with other homeschool moms is essential for your sanity, confidence, and growth (plus, Dawn’s tips for finding true connection—even if it’s online)
What to do when you’re in the thick of overwhelm: where to focus, what to drop, and how to “step out of the chaos and into the wonder.”

Mentioned in this episode:

Cindy Rollins’ resources
Ambleside Online (for Charlotte Mason inspiration)
The Homeschool Better Together Community

Your Next Steps:

Ready to build honest, lasting relationships in your homeschool? Join our free online community for encouragement, resources, and real connection.
Never miss an episode! Be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review so you don’t miss what’s next.
Find out more about Homeschool Better Together resources for your best homeschool year.

Practical Habits to Reclaim Your Rest Jun 02, 2026

Ready to finally break free from the relentless go-go-go of homeschool mom life and actually feel rested again? (Nope, that nagging to-do list doesn't count.) In this episode, I’m inviting you behind the scenes of my own summer shift—from noisy productivity to a slower, more soul-filling kind of rest.

Here's the not-so-secret truth: most of us homeschool moms are absolutely terrible at resting. I know I am. Give me an empty summer calendar, and suddenly I’m knee-deep in a bedroom declutter, my head bursting with more projects than I could possibly finish. Meanwhile, my kids are doing exactly what summer’s meant for: slowing down, savoring, sleeping in, play, and a little joyful loafing. Why is it so hard for us to join them?

This week, I’m reflecting on what rest really means (hint: it's way deeper than a rare solo trip to Target). There’s “day at the spa” rest, sure—but even more, there’s the everyday spiritual and emotional rest Jesus offers. I’m sharing practical habits I’m actively working on—like journaling in my Bible, being intentional with what I choose to read (and what inputs I allow!), slowing down my audiobooks (yes, really), and actually carving out margin to just...be quiet. Maybe you’ll hear something that sparks your own personal “rest” list.

Want to create habits of rest, not just wish for them? Grab your notebook. Let’s do it.

What you'll hear in this episode:

The honest confession: why “rest” never makes it to the top of my list—and what changed this summer.
The four types of exhaustion (and why it matters for homeschool moms).
What spiritual rest really looks like (spoiler: it’s not a spa day).
My personal “habits of rest” list for summer—including practical, small ways to slow down.
Choosing your “inputs” and why intentionality matters for an overwhelmed mind.
How to reclaim quiet reflection and model healthier rhythms for our kids.
The “shutdown practice” I’m experimenting with to protect my evenings and my sanity.

Resources mentioned:

Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly
Matthew 11:28-30
Journaling Bible
Kayse Pratt’s Weekly Reset System on sale through June 30, 2026!
Previous episode with Kasey Pratt on monthly planning

Your turn:

What would make your own "habits of rest" list?
Which type of exhaustion is loudest in your life right now?
Share your list or reflections in our homeschool community!

The Unexpected Benefits of Homeschooling Together May 19, 2026

Ever bribe your kids with snacks just so everyone gets through “group time” without a meltdown? Been there, done that. For a long time, I thought the best way to cut the chaos was to keep my kids separated—both in life and in homeschooling. Spoiler: All that did was up my stress and leave my relationships running on empty.

In this episode, I’m getting super honest about how I finally embraced the real meaning behind “homeschool better together.” From my early days of keeping squabbling siblings apart (for my own sanity) to the messy, miraculous shift of bringing everyone to the table, I’m sharing what it actually takes to create a peaceful, connected homeschool—and why it’s absolutely not just about the academics.

We’ll talk about the nitty-gritty of navigating sibling drama, the emotional marathon that is homeschooling, and why mom-friends (the ones in the trenches with you) matter just as much as your lesson plans. Plus, I’ll share the “aha” moment that connected the dots between running an ultramarathon and needing community as a homeschool mom.

Whether you’re burned out from breaking up arguments, longing for real support, or just want a homeschool that feels less lonely, this episode is for YOU.

What you'll learn:

Why “homeschooling together” used to terrify me (and what changed)
The hidden pitfalls of separating siblings for “peace”
How bringing your kids together shapes more than just academics—it builds character and relationships
The messy, slow process of learning to guide sibling conflict, not just survive it
Why finding your homeschool “people” (peer or mentor) is vital—and not just a nice-to-have
What running an ultramarathon taught me about support, encouragement, and shared struggle
Practical encouragement for moms who feel isolated, exhausted, or unsure “together” will ever work

Your Next Steps:

Join our email list to be the first to hear the details about the Homeschool Better Together Elevate Program (doors opening this summer)! Sign up for the email list here and receive our free planning pages.
Feeling stuck and alone? Join our supportive, online community for free!
Share this episode with a homeschool mom who needs to know she’s not alone

Why Emily Said Yes May 05, 2026

Is anyone else feeling that mix of excitement and nerves when big changes come to your favorite corner of homeschool internet? Yep, us too. But today’s episode is about pulling back the curtain (no Pinterest-perfect backdrops here) and inviting you to meet the heart behind Homeschool Better Together’s next chapter.

Today I (Laney) sit down with Emily Brown—homeschool mom, longtime superfan, certified life coach, and now, (drumroll, please), the new owner and lead cheerleader for Homeschool Better Together. We dive into her real-life journey from “absolutely-not-ever-homeschooler” to full-circle homeschooling advocate, how she found herself unexpectedly running the show, and what’s staying the same (spoiler: most things, including the curriculum you love) as well as what new encouragement and support is coming your way.

If you crave reassurance about the future, or just want to feel seen in the not-so-shiny parts of homeschool life, this conversation is for you. Expect honest stories, a few laugh-out-loud moments about meltdown drop-offs, and the kind of practical wisdom that grows from messy beginnings (and seven kids in eight years—send coffee).

What you’ll learn:

Emily’s honest story: how she ended up leading the community that resonated with her heart when she found herself in the midst of homeschooling even after she swore "she would never."
The #1 reason her family finally committed to homeschooling—and why “togetherness” is still the core of everything at HBT.
How burnout, school drop-off tears, and self-doubt actually forged her style and shaped her heart for helping other moms.
What’s NOT changing at Homeschool Better Together (curriculum, community, all the laughter, all the Narnia units, and the support you count on).
A sneak peek into Elevate: opening to more moms, more often, with the same “moms in the trenches” mentorship you love—plus Emily’s special blend of life coaching know-how.
Why Homeschool Better Together will always be run by real homeschoolers, for real homeschoolers—no fake, no pressure, just practical joy.
Emily’s vision for building a culture where the number one lesson isn’t “do it right,” but “build the relationships first."

Resources & Next Steps:

Keep an eye out for new Narnia language arts units, upcoming science plans, plus a curriculum bundle coming soon.

While you wait, check out our titles available now!

Curious about Elevate, Bootcamp, curriculum releases, or community news? Make sure you’re on the email list. Sign up here and receive our free planning pages.

How to Stop Killing Creativity in Your Homeschool: A Conversation with the Co-Founder of Night Zookeeper Apr 21, 2026

Are your kids dragging their feet when it comes to writing? You’re far from alone. This week on Homeschool Better Together, Laney Homan sits down with Joshua Davidson—children’s author and co-founder of Night Zookeeper—to unpack why so many kids lose their early love for creativity, and, most importantly, how we can spark that joy (and confidence) again, even for the most reluctant writers.

Joshua shares a behind-the-scenes look into how creativity and story play a critical role in confidence building—not just on paper, but in your child’s sense of self. We talk about the science behind why kids start doubting their creative abilities (especially around ages 7–8), the difference between praise-based and skills-based confidence, and why stories can help even literal, “grandpa before their time” thinkers start to unlock imaginative worlds.

Laney also gets honest about her goal-oriented, checklist mindset (raise your hand if you’re with me) and how it can unintentionally sap the joy from our homeschool days. There are plenty of practical ideas you can try today—whether your child needs a gentle push into creative writing, a safe space for self-expression, or just permission to invent the next great “kickboxing tiger.” Yes, that’s a thing!

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn:

Why writing is so dang hard for kids (it’s not just them!)
The age when children typically get self-conscious… and what to do about it
How creative expression anchors real confidence—not just loud “look at me” energy
The surprising link between storytelling, play, and long-lasting self-awareness
Tips for helping both wildly imaginative and “black-and-white thinker” kids get unstuck
New ways to use character-building (without forcing kids to produce yet another story)
How to leverage positive peer feedback—even when you’re homeschooling solo
The difference between praise-based confidence (“Good job!”) and skills-based confidence (the kind that actually lasts)

Resources Mentioned:

Your Next Steps:

Check out Night Zookeeper for a playful, confident approach to writing
Try building writing sessions around character creation—or let kids expand on their favorite movie/book character adventures
Embrace “imperfect” creative sessions—sometimes that wild made-up word is the best thing your family will remember

Ready for more encouragement and practical tools? Join our free homeschool community.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/stop-killing-creativity

Why Consistency Matters More Than You Think Apr 07, 2026

Are you stuck in a cycle of “start strong, fizzle fast” with your homeschool? Are the cries of “I’m behind!” and “Why can’t I stick with anything?!” becoming the theme music of your year? You’re not failing—consistency is just a muscle you haven’t built… yet.

In this episode, I open up about my early homeschool years: the chaos, the comparison, and the myth that “the right curriculum” could fix everything. Spoiler: it didn’t. But finding a perfection-proof, real-life approach to showing up—imperfectly!—changed everything for my family (and me). We’re talking trading overwhelm for stability, and self-doubt for steady progress… without rigid schedules, toxic guilt, or soul-sucking lesson plans.

If you’re ready to gently but firmly stake your claim on steady routines—with or without a shiny sink—this episode is your permission slip.

We also dive into what actually works (hint: it’s not about doing everything, it’s about doing the right things regularly), why “trying again tomorrow” isn’t a sign you’ve failed, and how community + accountability are real game-changers when the going gets tough. Plus, I’ll walk you through my big mindset shift from chasing homeschool “success” to focusing on faithfulness—and how that tiny shift ripples out to everyone in your home.

What you’ll learn:

How ditching perfection unlocked real consistency in my homeschool (and sanity!)
Why curriculum isn’t the answer to homeschool frustration
Practical, baby-step strategies to build routines you can actually keep
The difference between “showing up” and doing “all the things” (and why that matters)
How consistency brings security, independence, and fewer battles for your kids
Why real accountability (not just another checklist) made all the difference
How to start small and protect your non-negotiables—no matter how messy life is
The surprising connection between faithfulness, community, and homeschool peace

Resources mentioned:

Homeschool Consistency Bootcamp hosted by Dawn Garrett and Emily Brown: https://homeschoolbettertogether.com/consistency
FlyLady (shine your sink!): https://flylady.net/

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Loving Your Limits: A Faith-Based Approach to Planning Mar 24, 2026

In a season where everything feels important, how do you decide what actually matters?

In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, host Laney Homan sits down with Kayse Pratt, creator of Anchored Women, to talk about the power of monthly planning.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly reacting to life instead of living it with intention, this conversation will help you slow down, refocus, and create a rhythm that actually serves your family—and your faith.

Together, Laney and Kayse explore how stepping back once a month can reduce overwhelm, clarify priorities, and help you embrace your God-given limits instead of fighting them.

What You’ll Learn

Why monthly planning is more effective than just daily or weekly planning
How to reduce your mental load by seeing the bigger picture
Simple reflection questions to help you evaluate your current season
Why you can’t do it all—and why that’s actually a good thing
How to choose a focused priority without neglecting everything else
The connection between planning, stewardship, and faith
A healthier mindset that prevents planning from becoming another source of guilt

Resources Mentioned

Anchored Women (planning resources + community)
The Steadfast Over Scattered Planner
Free resource: Name Your Season Guide

Your Next Steps

Feeling inspired? Here are a few simple ways to take action:

Set aside 15–60 minutes this week for a monthly planning session
Ask yourself:
What was last month like?
What do I (and my family) need right now?
Choose:
1 habit goal
1 project goal
Pray over your month and ask for clarity in your focus
Give yourself permission to let go of what doesn’t fit this season

The Litany of “Not Enough”—and How to Escape It Mar 10, 2026

Let’s be real—homeschooling doesn’t always look like those dreamy, sun-drenched Instagram feeds. Some days it’s more tears, sibling spats, and “Mommmm, I can’t do this!” than cozy read-alouds and family harmony. And spoiler alert: the attitude problem isn’t always just coming from the kids.

In today’s episode, Laney Homan sits down with Emily Brown, veteran homeschool mom of seven and life coach for homeschoolers, to talk about the hard (but totally normal) realities of kids’ behavior—and the negative thought spirals parents can get stuck in when things are less than perfect at home. Emily has been through it all, from pulling five kids out of school at once to juggling newborns, teens, and everything in between.

We’re getting honest about:

Why you’re not alone in feeling totally overwhelmed by challenging behavior,
How easy it is to take your kids’ struggles as a personal failure,
And why it matters to check your own thought loops, not just your kids’ attitudes.

Are you ready for practical help, mindset shifts, and actual hope? Emily brings both wisdom and gentle challenge—plus a concrete script you can use right away to turn around tense moments. This is an episode for anyone who’s questioned whether they’re “enough,” who’s worried they’re failing their kids, or who’s just desperate to stop the meltdown cycle.

You are not alone in this (and your emotions are not out of your control!). Let’s break out of the negativity spiral, re-center on what matters, and find more joy in the homeschool journey—even on the messy days.

What you’ll learn:

Why kids' “bad” behavior isn’t usually personal—or even intentional
How our negative thought patterns (“the litany of not enough”) fuel family friction
Why owning your emotional state changes the whole home atmosphere
The ONE script you can use when your child is being disrespectful (and how to model a graceful do-over)
Why regular pauses, built-in breaks, and gratitude can short-circuit tension
How to reframe your role—your worth isn’t on the line, and you aren’t your kids’ savior (thank goodness for that!)
How shifting your language from “have to” to “get to” opens space for gratitude, even in the chaos

Resources Mentioned:

Find Emily Brown at Fiat Life Coaching for homeschool moms or listen to her podcast Happy, Holy Mama Podcast
The Grumble-Free Year by Tricia Goyer
Sibling Relationship Lab by Lynna Sutherland
Simply Convivial by Mystie Winckler

Your Next Steps:

Choose one phrase of truth or gratitude to repeat when you’re in a tough moment.
Try Emily’s script: “In case you’re unaware, the way you’re talking to me sounds disrespectful. If that’s not what you meant, please try again and say it how you want me to hear it.”
Find a few practical ways to insert a pause (for you AND your kids) during the school day.
Schedule a “homeschool audit” to troubleshoot problem spots, then brainstorm one small tweak.
Surround yourself with homeschool friends who encourage growth, not just commiseration.

Project-Based Learning: Messy, Magical, and Totally Doable Feb 24, 2026

Ever wonder why your kids’ “school projects” either fizzle out or turn into frantic, last-minute glue-sticking marathons? Or maybe you secretly dread “interest-led learning” because you picture glitter explosions and science fair-level chaos? I get it. But what if project-based learning—done right—could actually bring joyful curiosity, deeper learning, and family connection…without sending you to the craft store (or losing your mind)?

In this episode, I sit down with my real-life friend and local homeschool teacher, Karla Schlatter. Karla’s a mama of four boys, a champion of lifelong learning, and a pro at weaving meaningful projects into home education. Together, we peel back the curtain on what project-based learning really looks like in our actual, messy homeschool lives.

We share what sparked our love for this hands-on approach, how it’s played out with both our self-motivated and less-eager kids, and some hilarious mishaps along the way (never underestimate a determined kid with a cardboard stash or the allure of rabbit poop “science experiments”).

We unpack:

Why “interest-led” projects are more than just crafts or busywork—and how they differ from those assembly-line curriculum assignments
How Karla designed a high school project course that has our teens actually caring about deadlines, peer feedback, and creativity (hello, executive function skills!)
The magic (and mild panic) of letting go of control as a homeschool mom—and why that’s where the real learning happens
Pitfalls we’ve both hit, including perfectionism, decision-paralysis, and that ever-present urge to “just do it my way”
How to scaffold and support reluctant or overwhelmed kids so they can actually succeed (and learn from mistakes)

What you’ll learn:

The two types of project-based learning—and which one sparks more meaningful growth
How to create accountability, positive peer pressure, and genuine motivation (even if your kid is a world-class procrastinator)
Strategies for building projects around your child’s true interests—even if those interests seem a bit out-there (rabbit fertilizer, anyone?)
Why it’s worth teaching kids to “break big goals into small steps”—and how project learning does just that
Ways to start small and make project-based learning a natural part of your family culture, whether you have a group or you’re flying solo

Resources Mentioned:

Land That I Love from Homeschool Better Together
Navigating High School Course
4-H and county fairs for kid-friendly project experiences
Colleen Kessler at Raising Lifelong Learners

Formal Co-ops Not Your Thing? Try This Instead Feb 10, 2026

Welcome to a brand new season of Homeschool Better Together—and a new voice behind the mic! I’m your new host, Laney Homan, and today I’m joined by our HBT community manager (and Charlotte Mason wisdom guru), Dawn Garrett, for a conversation that's near and dear to both our hearts: Community-Based Learning.

Truth be told, I’ve never been much for formal, lockstep co-ops (raise your hand if you’re allergic to group projects with rigid requirements and committee meetings that last for-e-ver 🖐). Turns out, Dawn couldn’t see herself fitting in those boxes either—so we’re talking about all the ways homeschoolers can build meaningful, creative, low-pressure community learning that’s flexible, affordable, and fits real life.

In this episode, we share stories from our own homeschools, compare notes on creative learning groups (spoiler: sometimes all you need are two families, a stack of art supplies, and a desperate desire to keep the paint off the carpet), and break down the biggest benefits of adding some organic connection alongside your at-home days.

Dawn spills the beans on what worked for her family—from impromptu art clubs in the living room, to literature-lovin’ library meetups, to Shakespeare performance groups that grew entirely out of “who’s willing to show up and recite lines?” And I share how, for my kids, homeschool community wasn’t always about the academics—it was a lifeline for real friendships, support for mom (can I get an amen?), and finding encouragement from others in the shared messy middle.

Curious how to make these grassroots groups work for your family? Wondering if community learning ever counts for high school credit? Need a nudge to just send that text and start something simple? You’re in the right place. Grab your coffee, put the baby in the swing, and let’s get real about what community-based learning can look like for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Real-life stories of community learning groups that worked (and why “co-op” doesn’t have to be intimidating)
How to kick off a grassroots learning group without losing your freedom (or your mind)
Creative models for homeschool community—from art clubs and PE meetups to project fairs and bowling days
The often-overlooked benefits of community learning—friendships, accountability, positive peer pressure, and mom sanity
How to handle the “I need control” factor (hint: you’re not the only one!)
Why your kids don’t need more busywork, and how to keep group learning low-pressure
Simple ways to turn community experiences into high school credit (it really does count!)
Encouragement for making friends (for your kids and yourself) even if you’re brand new or starting small
Honest thoughts about seasons with (and without) co-ops—and how to know what’s best for right now

Are These Homeschool Voices Stealing Your Joy? Jan 27, 2026

Ever feel like you’re drowning in homeschool advice, but your confidence is getting lost in the flood? You’re not alone—and in this episode, I’m joined by our amazing Member Success Manager, Laney Homan, for a real talk chat about filtering all those voices and finally trusting your own judgment.

We’ll dish on how the “information overload” of today’s homeschool world is light-years away from the early days of conventions and catalogues. (Spoiler: The algorithm does not know what you actually need.) We get candid about how too many voices can stir up self-doubt—making you second-guess decisions or chase the elusive promise of a homeschool formula that simply doesn’t exist.

Want to know who is actually worth listening to? We’ll share how to spot a wise mentor, why good community matters (but isn’t everything), and how to sidestep the guilt bombs and prescriptive “this is the only way” messaging that can wreck your confidence.

Plus: A big announcement! Laney’s taking over as host for the next season of the podcast, and I couldn’t be more excited for the new combos and encouragement she’ll bring to your earbuds.

What you’ll learn:

Why today’s homeschoolers are swimming in input—and how it’s different from the “good ol’ days.”
Why information overload can actually sabotage your confidence (and what to do instead)
How to filter curriculum promises, “expert” advice, and the allure of homeschooling quick fixes
What makes a good homeschool mentor—and giant red flags to dodge
How to find real encouragement and honest support (without sliding into a homeschool pity party)
The three levels of community…and why local support still matters
Ways to avoid the shame/should/“if you don’t, you’ll fail” trap
Pam’s biggest soapbox about absolutes and humility in homeschool leadership
Why Laney will be your new host for the next season (and why that’s downright awesome!)

Resources mentioned:

Join our free Homeschool Better Together Community

Christmas School for the Soul Nov 18, 2025

Are you overwhelmed by the pressure to create Pinterest-perfect holiday memories in your homeschool? (Spoiler: so was I, and I’ve got some epic fails to share as proof!) If you’re feeling weighed down by Christmas school plans, elaborate crafts, and a to-do list longer than Santa’s, this episode is your permission slip to do less and experience more peace.

This week, I’m sharing why “Christmas School for the Soul” is a better plan than another jam-packed checklist. We’re reframing holiday homeschooling: less pressure, more joy. I’ll tell you about my own holiday mishaps (candy kiss countdown disaster, anyone?), what I’ve learned about letting go of perfection, and exactly how a simple morning time routine can offer both you and your kids the holiday anchor you actually need.

Let’s trade “doing more” for making meaning and let beauty do the heavy lifting. Whether you’re on top of things or not, this is your invitation to step off the treadmill and just be together. (Bonus: Don’t miss your FREE Advent Morning Time plans, made for your heart, not your checklist.)

What you’ll learn:

Why you might need Advent Morning Time as much as your kids do
How “Christmas School for the Soul” can be your stress antidote
The danger of the holiday homeschool perfection trap (plus, my own hilarious fails)
Three steps to a simpler, soul-filling holiday homeschool
Why choosing a single “anchor” tradition is enough
How to replace “more” with “meaningful” (and cut the guilt)
How music, art, and poetry can do the hard work for you (so you don’t have to!)
The real reason behind doing school during the holidays—and how to reclaim peace

Mentioned resources:

Trade Overwhelm for Joy Nov 04, 2025

Ready to trade overwhelm for joy this homeschool year?

If you’ve ever wished for a homeschooling break that actually refills your cup without the speaker overload of a massive conference or the pressure to “do it all,” this episode is your permission slip. I’m sitting down with Barbara Cozens to talk about what really happens at a We Gather Together Beach Retreat.

Barbara traveled to the 2023 retreat from snowy Nevada for some well-deserved rest, good company, and inspiration. She’s sharing her honest take on what surprised her, what she brought home for her own kids, and why she believes every mom needs time away before she reaches burnout.

If you’re debating whether to join us at the retreat, have big “what ifs” about coming alone, or don’t even own a pair of flip-flops, this is the episode to press play. It’s about connection, permission to rest, and finding YOUR people—even if it feels a little nerve-wracking at first.

What you’ll learn:

The difference between homeschool conferences vs. our soulful beach retreat (no decision fatigue—promise)
Why you don’t have to “do Morning Basket perfectly” to get big benefits (Barbara’s light bulb moment)
How to build authentic connections even if you’re an introvert flying solo
The surprising things you can get out of a 3-day retreat (hint: it’s not just about new teaching tips)
Simple ways to bring retreat wisdom and peace back into your daily homeschool
Tips for first-time attendees: travel, what to expect, and how we make it easy and welcoming

Resources & Mentions:

Homeschool Mom Beach Retreat Info Page
Ask us anything about the retreat: info@pambarnhill.com
Free Homeschool Better Together Community

Ready to fill your own cup so you can pour into your homeschool? Come relax, reset, and find your people. Barbara, I, and a beach chair with your name are waiting.

For the full show notes visit: https://pambarnhill.com/hsbt50

When Handwriting Isn’t Clicking (And What Really Matters) Oct 21, 2025

What’s the real story behind “bad” handwriting? Is it just a phase, or a red flag? And what should you actually do when your kid melts down every time you pull out a pencil?

In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Collins, a homeschool mom, licensed occupational therapist, and founder of Homeschool OT, to debunk some common OT myths and offer practical, encouraging advice for homeschool parents concerned about handwriting, motor skills, and when to seek extra help.

You’ll hear:

How Sarah pivoted from OT homeschool skeptic to trailblazer serving families worldwide
The #1 question every parent should ask if their child struggles with handwriting (hint: function > form)
Simple ways to support reluctant writers (think: core strength before cursive!)
What really matters for writing readiness, warning signs to watch for, and when it’s time to seek professional support (without guilt or shame)
Lots of fun, judgment-free encouragement for new and veteran homeschoolers

Resources Mentioned:

Sarah’s site, resources & podcast
Instagram: @homeschoolot
Improving Handwriting Without Actually Writing
A Chameleon Tale (Sarah’s sensory-regulation picture book)
Free Homeschool Community

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt49

Adaptability Is Your Homeschool Superpower Oct 07, 2025

How many times have you set out to have a “consistent” homeschool, only to get derailed by spilled cereal, a surprise dentist appointment, or, let’s be real, your own epic meltdown? (Just me? Didn’t think so.)

Let’s bust this myth right up front: Consistency in homeschool is NOT about never missing a day, nailing every lesson, and marching through the schedule like a robot from a Tesla demo reel.

So what IS the secret? It’s adaptability. True, sustainable consistency, the kind that survives germs, grief, “one of those days,” and whatever else life throws at you, is built on having a plan that bends without breaking.

In this episode, I break down how you can actually plan for adaptability and why it’s not a cop-out, but instead, it’s the key.

What you’ll learn:

How adaptability is the true backbone of homeschool consistency
Practical ways to scale schoolwork when time or energy are short
Simple “last resort” activities that count as connection, not failure
The value of planning your Plan B ahead (not during the drama)
Why “good enough” still builds a powerful homeschool habit—more than you think

Resources Mentioned:

Want to make your Plan B list and finally ditch the guilt on messy days? Now’s the time: join our Homeschool Consistency Bootcamp! Doors close October 17th—let’s build real-life consistency together.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/hsbt48

One Small Habit That Transforms Your Homeschool Sep 23, 2025

Are you drowning in interruptions, curveballs, or the chaos of real-life homeschooling—and wondering if you’ll ever get back to consistent days? You’re not alone, friend! This week on the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, I’m joined by DaLynn DeWitt—a South Texas homeschool mom of three, rodeo wife, and self-confessed “all or nothing” personality—who opens up about what it really looks like to homeschool when life goes sideways.

DaLynn shares how her school year started with ceilings leaking, family camping out in one bedroom, a kitchen-turned-homeschool zone, and zero hope of a “normal” routine. And yet—she found this was actually one of her most consistent, joyful years ever. (Spoiler: You do NOT need a perfect plan or a Pinterest-ready schoolroom to make homeschool work—you just need a launch point and a whole lot of grace).

We talk about the power of starting with just one thing (even if it’s just reading the Bible or a good book), using tools like the Minimum Viable Day, and how to climb out of a rut after illness, loss, and every possible interruption. DaLynn shares her brutally honest take on mindset, figuring out your “good enough” day, and learning when to keep pushing—and when to step outside and catch your breath.

If you’re stuck in a season of hard, or just want practical ideas (and a good laugh) on building better routines, you do not want to miss this episode.

What you’ll learn:

What to do when your “perfect” plan is torpedoed by life (construction, illness, travel… you name it)
How starting with just ONE anchor habit can launch the rest of your homeschool day
The magic of the Minimum Viable Day (when it really is “good enough”)
Moving forward after a school slump, setbacks, or ‘failing’ weeks
Giving yourself grace—and permission to do less, not more—when everything falls apart
Why consistency doesn’t require perfection (and actually thrives on the opposite)
The real secret sauce to building homeschool momentum—and keeping it when you’re tired, grumpy, or overwhelmed

Resources mentioned in this episode:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt47

Homeschool Off Track? Time for a Reboot Sep 09, 2025

Raise your hand if your homeschool year already feels like it’s veering off course. (Don’t worry, mine’s up too.) Let’s be real: there’s no such thing as one smooth, perfectly consistent homeschool year. Enter…the homeschool reboot.

This episode is your practical pep talk for starting over, with zero guilt. I break down why a homeschool reboot isn’t just normal, it might actually be your greatest superpower as a home educator. Whether your family was hit by The Cold That Would Not Die, your house imploded (literally), or you just looked around and realized Morning Time hasn’t happened since February, hear me loud and clear: the restart button is there for a reason, and pressing it is healthy, not humiliating.

We’ll cover exactly what a reboot is, why “falling behind” is a myth, and how to refresh your homeschool with grace (for everyone, including yourself).

What you’ll learn:

How to reset your homeschool without guilt or drama
The “three core things” strategy for making a reboot stick
Grace-filled mindset shifts that make restarts feel lighter, not heavier
Why starting fresh (again) is a homeschool superpower
Easy ways to refresh your physical and mental homeschool space
Why celebrating your restart is not just allowed—it’s necessary

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Grace-Filled Reboot Download (grab your checklist, print it, use it anytime)
Free Homeschool Community

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt46

High School Foreign Language Credit, No Textbook Required Aug 26, 2025

Ready to actually use a foreign language in your homeschool—and give your high schooler credit for it? This episode is a breath of fresh air for every parent who’s ever tried to check the “foreign language” box…and wondered if anything was actually sticking.

Today, I’m joined again by Adelaide Olguin, founder of Talkbox Mom, whose innovative program teaches families to use a second language in real life (think: snack time, errands, or even brushing teeth). She and her husband, Hector, have raised their three boys across five continents, speaking multiple languages wherever they go.

Recently, Adelaide expanded Talkbox Mom to serve high schoolers too. If the idea of high school “credit” makes your palms sweat, don’t worry: she’s sharing exactly how to make real-world fluency count for both your transcript and your family connection.

We chat about what it takes to homeschool high school foreign language with confidence and joy—even if you’re learning right alongside your teen, juggling multiple ages, or terrified of testing.

Wondering if you can keep things hands-on and still get a transcript-ready result? This episode will have you saying “da,” “sí,” or just plain “yes, please!”

What you’ll learn:

The common pressure (and myth) around “doing high school foreign language right”—and how to actually serve your student
Why most traditional programs leave kids unable to actually speak another language (even after years of study)
How Talkbox Mom’s high school program works (yes, including record keeping, grading, and what “counts” as a credit)
Practical ideas to integrate language learning with real family life—no need to become a grammar drill sergeant
Easy ways to adapt if you have teens and little ones (or a teen who surprises you with a “random” language they want to study)
Why fluency opens up opportunities for college, career, travel, and community
How to handle grading, cultural projects, and “testing”—especially if you’re learning right along with your teen
Real-life encouragement for the “type A” mom who needs a system (but wants actual results)

Resources Mentioned:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt45

Rabbit Trails and Real Life: One Mom’s Journey Aug 12, 2025

Are you homeschooling a neurodivergent child, or just feeling like the “typical” homeschool advice doesn’t fit your real life? This episode is for all the mamas who secretly (or not-so-secretly) wish for a blueprint, but end up building a rollercoaster every single day.

Today, I’m joined by Amie, a veteran mom of one, homeschooling her neurodivergent son, and living proof that “just one kid” does NOT mean it’s always a walk in the park! (Try keeping up with a high-speed Wikipedia page who only wants to talk about trains and Japanese sailing. It’s an Olympic sport.)

Amie opens up about her journey: from the failed attempt at “Best School in the System” to finding a unique family rhythm at home, letting go of expectations, and embracing a blend of Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and good old, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants adaptability. We dive into what school looks like for a wildly curious, deeply-focused teen and how Wonder Studies (yes, still with her high schooler!) has become a lifeline for jumpstarting curiosity and keeping herself sane.

Wonder how to juggle rabbit trails, box-checking, and your own perfectionist guilt? Amie and I get real about dropping the Pinterest boards and finding peace in the “messy middle.” If your homeschool feels all over the place. Spoiler: you’re in good company.

What you’ll learn:

Why letting go of “school should look like school” is the first step to real joy
Exactly how Amie balances deep-dive interests with actually “doing the school things”
Why unit studies + living books + rabbit holes are magic for neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alike
Tips for Morning Time with a single, high-intensity learner (and why baskets save everyone’s sanity!)
How Wonder Studies gives teens independence and mamas instant relief
Letting go of perfectionism, surviving “no core subjects this week,” and still raising an amazing kid
Why curiosity and joy matter just as much, if not more, than checking the boxes

Resources mentioned in this episode:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt44

Ditching the Overwhelm for Family Learning Jul 29, 2025

Are you craving more joy, flexibility, and real connection in your homeschool? Today’s episode is a deep-dive with Angela Huber, one of our own Homeschool Better Together community moms. Angela’s homeschool journey began like so many: She swore she’d never do it, then got thrown into elearning during 2020 (which, spoiler, did NOT spark joy). Fast-forward, she’s now navigating homeschooling three daughters (with learning differences and a toddler in the mix) and has made some major changes to reclaim that family-learning magic.

Angela shares exactly why her family pivoted away from a rigorous co-op (goodbye, hours of homework and family separation!), and leaned all-in with Wonder Studies, family-style learning, and a focus on togetherness. We get honest about the big switch: her fears around consistency and accountability, how she supports her girls with dyslexia, and why it sometimes feels like the toddler is actually the one in charge.

We laugh about the morning basket snuggles, get nerdy about “connected learning moments,” and get really real about what matters most: kids who want to be with you (even if the science experiment flops and the baby steals everyone’s pencils).

If you’ve ever wondered whether multi-age, family-style learning can actually work (or you need encouragement to step out of the “schooly” grind), this one’s for you.

What you’ll learn:

The surprising reason Angela ditched an intense co-op (and how it changed her homeschool culture)
How she supports TWO kids with dyslexia, builds in “together time,” and keeps learning joyful… even with a toddler underfoot
Exactly what a relaxed, real-life Wonder Studies day looks like (spoiler: it’s not color-coded or Pinterest perfect)
The power of “connected learning moments” and why family learning is deeper (and way more fun!)
How to overcome fears around “gaps,” consistency, and accountability when you leave a co-op
The simple routines and tools Angela uses to keep learning happening year-round
Why her kids say their favorite part isn’t a resource or experiment—but simply “being together”

Resources mentioned in this episode:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt43

Special Episode: 5 Signs You’ve Got a Ho Hum Homeschool Jul 24, 2025

Is your homeschool running on autopilot and losing its spark? You're not alone, and you’re definitely not failing. In this special episode, I’m getting real about a syndrome I call the “Ho Hum Homeschool.” You know, when you’re doing all the things, color-coded planners, checklists, math, and reading, but somehow, none of it feels like actual learning. The days start to blur together. The joy fades. You start wondering: why does this feel so hard? (And if it’s just us, or if everyone’s eating cereal for every meal in May.)

Grab a cool drink, your favorite homeschool catalog, and let’s have a gut-check. I’ll walk you through the five big warning signs your homeschool might be a little (or a lot) off track, even if you look good on paper. Spoiler: It’s not about buying new curriculum, hacking your whole schedule, or laminating every last thing in sight.

But don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging! I’m inviting you to my favorite (and totally free) workshop, The Case of the Ho Hum Homeschool, where we’ll use some playful detective work and real-life encouragement to uncover the three small but powerful shifts that can bring the heart, the connection, and the joy back into your homeschool days. No trench coat required, I promise.

Here’s what we’re covering:

The true signs your homeschool is flatlining (even if you’re “checking the boxes”)
Why more curriculum and new schedules aren’t the solution to burnout (and what is)
Why fun and connection are always the first things to get cut, and how to fix it
How to design a homeschool day that actually feels good for your family (without the guilt or overwhelm)
A behind-the-scenes sneak peek at my free, hope-filled workshop to help you reset before next year (even if you’re already tired planning!)

Mentioned resources:

Ready for clarity and actual hope (not just another to-do list)?

Head to pambarnhill.com/hohum to save your seat for the workshop, free, actionable, and replay available!

How to Anchor Your Homeschool in Changing Times Jul 15, 2025

Are you facing a move and feeling completely overwhelmed about starting over with your homeschool? Maybe you’re wishing for some sense of rhythm and comfort when everything else around you is shifting.

In this episode, I talk with Melaney Smith, a pastor’s wife and homeschool mom of three, about what it’s like to leave everything behind and begin again. Melaney recently moved her family from Stockton, California, all the way to the snowy prairies of North Dakota. She generously shares what it was like to grieve, adjust (and freeze!), and eventually discover her new groove as a homeschooling mom.

We talk about what really happens when your routines get tossed upside-down and how to handle the emotional load, the reality of creating community in a completely new place, and how tools like Autopilot became Melaney’s secret weapon during the chaos. In her story, you’ll find surprising insights about why familiar routines matter so much during big transitions and how flexible habits can truly anchor your family when everything else feels unfamiliar.

If you are walking through a big life change or just need some honest encouragement (plus a few laughs about frozen winters and missing good hot sauce), you’ll find practical help and camaraderie right here.

What you’ll learn:

What actually happens (emotionally and practically) when you move cross-country with your family and begin homeschooling again
How consistency and familiar homeschool rhythms can help everyone adjust after a big move
Why planning tools and a supportive community are essential during chaotic seasons
The basics of “Minimum Viable Days” and why these can be a lifesaver when your regular routines are impossible
Creative ideas for adapting your homeschool to new climates, schedules, and cultures
Why taking three to five years to feel at home is normal—and perfectly okay
How letting go of perfection and choosing to show up faithfully brings peace and growth

Resources mentioned:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt42

Homeschooling Through The Hardest Year Ever Jul 01, 2025

Ever feel like “life” is just too much to keep homeschooling going? This one’s for you.

I sat down with Karissa Martin, a mom of four, seasoned homeschooler, and expert juggler who, this year alone, faced one family crisis after another: illness, caretaking, and more than a few emotional curveballs. But you know what? Not only did her family make it through, but they actually experienced more growth than they have in years.

We talk about the sandwich generation (yes, it even counts with grandparents), trying to keep homeschool afloat while at the hospital, late-night co-op assignments, and what it really looks like to let your vision and community hold you up when you can’t do it on your own.

Karissa pulls back the curtain on how she hit burnout, learned to finally ask for help, and found a “village” when she needed it most. She also reveals how, even with all the chaos, her kids’ education didn’t just survive…it thrived.

We don’t sugarcoat the messy parts, but you’ll come away with real encouragement, practical ideas for finding your footing in a tough season, and a hefty dose of hope.

What you’ll learn:

How Karissa homeschooled during crisis and family caretaking (without losing her mind)
The do-the-next-thing approach to planning that kept her from feeling behind
Why she now plans her whole homeschool year—spoiler: this saved her bacon
How asking for help (even when it’s hard) changes everything
Life lessons her kids learned from supporting extended family
Why “behind” is almost always in your head
The reality of burnout—and Karissa’s steps for climbing out
The surprising ways community can show up, even when you think you don’t have a village

Resources Mentioned:

Want more help with planning your year, surviving the messy seasons, and connecting with a community that actually gets it? Come join us in our free group!

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt41

Juggling Big Life Changes and Homeschool Jun 17, 2025

Are you in a season where homeschooling just feels… well, impossible? Juggling toddlers, moving houses, job changes—or maybe even facing heart surgery for your baby? Deep breath—friend, this episode is proof you really can keep going, even in the crazy!

Today I’m joined by my friend, marketing pro, and veteran homeschool mom Tracey Matney. Tracey’s not only teaching her 8-year-old son (since Pre-K!)—she’s also wrangling a busy toddler after a wild couple of years filled with moving, house fires, a not-quite-soon-enough home build, having a newborn in a borrowed back-house, and that earth-shaking moment when her baby needed open heart surgery at just four months old.

If you’ve ever thought, “How am I supposed to homeschool through THIS?”—Tracey’s story will encourage you and give you a good reality check on what truly matters. (Spoiler: Perfectionism is out, “the main things” are in.)

What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While Under Pressure

The only subjects that really matter during a crisis season (and what to ditch)
How to build resilience—even when chaos reigns at home (hint: Bible, breakfast, and deep breaths)
The power of homeschool community and leaning on others when you simply can’t do it all
Practical ways to pivot your plans, release perfection, and keep going—even when you want to quit
How Autopilot planning (and a clear homeschool vision) transforms your confidence and sanity—not just your lesson lists
Why letting your kids see you grow is its own kind of homeschool win

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt40

Which Homeschool Schedule Actually Works for You? Jun 03, 2025

Are you ready to break out of “school-at-home” thinking and finally build a homeschool rhythm that fits YOUR real life—not just the one in the curriculum guide?

This week, I invited our two resident schedule-geeks—Laney Homan and Dawn Garrett—into the studio for a lively, practical (and very honest) roundtable on all things homeschool schedules.

We’re tackling the myth that there’s only one “right” way to schedule your homeschool, sharing why nobody here gets up for a 7am school bus…and giving you permission to let go of what doesn’t work for your unique family.

We walk through six of the most popular scheduling types (yep, there’s math, but not the scary kind), spill the biggest scheduling mistakes we’ve made, and show you what flexibility really looks like through every messy season.

No pressure. Just lots of ideas, permission to pivot, and some hilarious overscheduling confessions from yours truly.

If you secretly geek out over planners—or if you just wish someone would tell you WHY you can never stick to the schedule the public school uses—this is your episode.

Grab your coffee, open your planner (or don’t), and join us for a real talk that just might make your next homeschool season your smoothest yet.

What You’ll Learn:

The most common homeschool schedule types and why families choose them
How to start with intention (not just “fall into” inconsistent routines)
Why your schedule can (and should) change as your family grows and life shifts
How to adapt for outside classes, big family needs, and real-life curveballs
The difference between loop and block scheduling (and which one to use if you always skip science!)
How to use “magic number” scheduling for ultimate flexibility—and what to avoid
Permission to experiment, change things up, or even go back to traditional if that’s what works

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt39.

How to Keep Homeschool Consistent When Life Isn’t May 20, 2025

What happens when your homeschool plan goes on the road—literally? Today, I’m joined by second-generation homeschooler and seasoned moving pro, Adrienne Denison, to talk about schooling through cross-country moves, starting over in a new place, and making sure your curriculum doesn’t get lost between boxes of Legos and winter coats.

Adrienne unpacks (pun absolutely intended) the lessons she’s learned navigating three major moves in just six months, transitioning her four kids through pivotal school years—and why she’s so passionate about not letting perfect get in the way of done. As a CC (Classical Conversations) family and longtime Autopilot user, Adrienne shares her best tactical tips for planning, packing, downsizing, and keeping your school system humming even when life’s upside down.

If you’ve ever wondered how to homeschool when your schedule and address are both a moving target, this episode is full of honest encouragement, practical hacks, and permission to let some things go so you can say yes to connection, community, and new beginnings (even if it means doing math on the trampoline).

What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While Moving

How Adrienne survived three “mini-moves” in one big cross-country adventure
Her secret for never losing track of curriculum (even with boxes everywhere)
What to toss, keep, or give away—and why purging was actually a blessing
Why Adrienne doesn’t mind letting academics take a back seat after a big move
How using Homeschool on Autopilot helped her keep everyone on track (and sane)
Tips for banking “school days” early and freeing up time for finding new friends
Why supporting your family’s emotional needs is just as critical as checking boxes—and yes, you have permission to lament
Adrienne’s best hack for organizing books, prepping for high school, and making your next move smoother (even if it’s just down the street)

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt38

Six Smart Questions to Ask Before You Buy Curriculum May 06, 2025

It’s curriculum season, and you know what that means: a flood of shiny programs, glowing reviews, and unboxing videos that make everything look like the answer to your homeschool stress. But here’s my honest take—it only counts if it actually works for your own real-life family, not just the influencer on YouTube.

Today, I’m flying solo to give you my six best questions to ask yourself BEFORE you hit “add to cart” on that next curriculum (plus a bonus one at the end). This is all about helping you dodge curriculum regret, stop chasing endless FOMO, and make smart, confident choices—even when everything looks “perfect” out there.

Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned vet with a closet full of half-used programs, you’ll find practical strategies, real talk, and permission to pivot without guilt. I’ll share my own wins (hello, DIY Shakespeare lessons) and fails (science experiments we never actually did) so you can learn from my messy middle.

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

What You'll Learn About Choosing Curriculum

Are you making your curriculum choice based on your season of life—or wishful thinking?
How to ditch the comparison spiral and stop second-guessing yourself
The ONE thing every curriculum that “works” has in common (spoiler: it isn’t expensive flashcards or pretty boxes)
Concrete examples to help you decide if you need hand-holding—or can wing it like a pro
Why you don’t NEED to die on every homeschool hill (goodbye, busywork battles!)
Sneaky ways life seasons—from new babies to job changes—should guide your curriculum decisions

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt37.

What Makes a Good Curriculum? Apr 22, 2025

Let’s get brutally honest: no single curriculum is ever going to save your homeschool, fix your child’s attitude, or turn your kitchen into one of those magical, Instagram-perfect learning havens. If you’re looking for the “unicorn curriculum,” keep dreaming (or better yet, listen up—because we’re about to set you free).

In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I sat down with the queen of curriculum experimentation, Laney Homan—our Community Success Manager, veteran homeschool mom of eight, and half-marathon runner (yes, we’re still impressed!).

Together, we pull back the curtain on what really makes curriculum work in a real-life homeschool, how to shop smarter (hello, shelves full of unused programs), and the hard truth about independence and motivation—for kids and parents alike.

What You'll Learn About Homeschool Curriculum

What happens when you stop endlessly chasing “the perfect” and start shopping for curriculum that fits your real goals (and real kids)
How shifting your curriculum approach can lead to better results, fewer tears, and way less guilt-shopping
Why independence can’t be bought (no matter how “open-and-go” something claims to be)
The exact way Laney pivots when a program stops working (hint: it’s not about “fancy” or new, it’s about needs)
How curriculum is really a TOOL, not a magic wand, and how to think like a confident homeschool parent who’s in the driver’s seat
The value of togetherness and why our “Together” curriculum line is saving the sanity of big families and moms with laundry piles as tall as their teens

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt36

Got Cold Feet About Homeschooling? You're Not Alone! Apr 08, 2025

Are you hesitant to homeschool? You're not alone! In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, host Pam Barnhill chats with Mandy McArthur and Jessica Solis Carpinelli, authors of "Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions." Mandy and Jessica share practical insights and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling but feeling apprehensive. Discover how a strong support system and the right resources make all the difference. They tackle common fears like socialization concerns and not knowing enough to teach, revealing that homeschooling is more about teaching children how to learn than being an expert in every subject. Jessica explains, “We aren’t expected to be experts in everything... we’re trying to teach our kids how to learn.” Meanwhile, Mandy emphasizes the importance of community, advising parents to connect and say “yes” to building relationships with other homeschoolers. Listen in for inspirational stories that might just help you take the leap with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

Homeschooling is about teaching kids how to learn, not teaching every subject.
Build a supportive community by saying yes to opportunities and events.
Socialization through homeschooling is different but equally impactful.
Adjusting to homeschooling involves embracing flexibility and redefining structure.
Many colleges welcome homeschooled students, often appreciating their unique educational perspectives.

Links and Resources:

Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions by Mandi McArthur and Jessica Solis Carpinelli
The Coop Homeschool
Homeschool Better Together Website
Homeschool Better Together Podcast
Homeschool Better Together Community

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt35

Can You Really Outsource High School? One Mom’s Story Mar 25, 2025

Homeschooling high school feels like a big shift. Suddenly, you’re looking at advanced subjects, keeping transcripts, and preparing your teen for what comes next. In this episode, I sit down with Meg Angelino, our operations manager and curriculum editor, to talk about what happens when you start outsourcing classes while still juggling motherhood. We discuss our journeys toward more organized homeschools, and the vital role our online community plays in offering encouragement and fresh ideas. Listen in to gain practical insights on the changing roles as a parent, keeping students motivated, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with transitioning to high school.

Key Takeaways:

Outsourcing reduces stress while ensuring a solid education.
Feeling overwhelmed? Consider online courses, co-ops, or dual enrollment.
Stay involved—check assignments, discuss lessons, and help with deadlines.
Options include live/self-paced online courses, hybrid programs, co-ops, and community college classes.
Teens need independence but still require guidance.
Keep core traditions like Morning Time, read-alouds, and discussions to maintain your homeschool’s values.

Links and Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt34

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

A Game-Changing Approach to Homeschooling High School Mar 11, 2025

Homeschooling high school can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, our community manager, Dawn Garrett, steps in as host to chat with homeschool mom Elizabeth Overcash about her experience navigating these crucial years. Elizabeth, a retired military wife, shares her unique perspective—having one child who graduated from a traditional school while homeschooling her younger two.

She talks about shifting from a hands-on teaching style to more of a coaching role, balancing structure with flexibility, and helping her teens take ownership of their education. She also discusses how she integrates out-of-the-box learning, like film studies and Scouting, while ensuring her kids meet high school requirements.

Key Takeaways:

The transition to homeschooling high school doesn’t have to be scary—it’s about adjusting your role from teacher to guide.
Structure matters, but so does allowing flexibility for real-life learning.
Giving teens ownership over their curriculum choices boosts motivation and engagement.
Planning tools like Navigating High School and Plan Your Year can make the process smoother.
Homeschooling high school is about preparing kids for life, not just checking academic boxes.

Links and Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt(33)

Making Math a Delight with Denise Gaskins Feb 25, 2025

In this episode, I sit down with Denise Gaskins, math educator and author, to talk about how we can transform math from a dreaded subject into something joyful and engaging. Denise shares why so many homeschoolers struggle with math and how shifting our approach can make a huge difference.

She encourages parents to make math playful through games, storytelling, and real-life problem-solving. Whether you have a math-loving child or one who resists every lesson, Denise’s insights will help you bring curiosity and creativity into your homeschool math routine.

Tune in for practical strategies to build math confidence and make learning more enjoyable for the whole family!

Key Takeaways:

Math Should Be Playful – Learning math through games, puzzles, and real-life applications makes it more engaging and less intimidating for kids.
Ditch the Memorization-Only Approach – Understanding why math works is more valuable than rote memorization. Encourage exploration instead of just drilling facts.
Use Stories to Teach Math – Turning math problems into narratives or real-world situations makes them more meaningful and relatable for kids.
Encourage Mathematical Thinking – Instead of giving answers right away, ask your kids questions like “What do you think?” or “How else could we solve this?”
It’s Okay to Change Your Approach – If a curriculum isn’t working, try something new! Hands-on learning, different resources, or adjusting your teaching style can make a big difference.Focus on Confidence, Not Just Correct Answers – Helping kids feel comfortable making mistakes and thinking through problems builds long-term math success.
Math Doesn’t Have to Be a Daily Battle – Shift the focus from completing worksheets to fostering curiosity and discovery.

Links and Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt32

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

How a Simple Mindset Shift Changed Everything for This Homeschool Mom Feb 11, 2025

Consistency in homeschooling can be a game-changer, and today I’m joined by Krystal Joslin, a military homeschooling mom and graduate of the Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp. Krystal shares how she went from a go-with-the-flow approach to building a structured, consistent homeschool routine that works—despite frequent moves and unpredictable schedules.

She opens up about the challenges she faced, the small changes that made the biggest difference, and how consistency has transformed her homeschool (and her confidence as a mom!). If you're struggling to find a rhythm, Krystal’s story will encourage you that small changes lead to big results.

Key Takeaways:

Small, consistent habits build a strong homeschool foundation.
Clear expectations reduce resistance from kids.
A simple daily routine can keep learning on track.
Self-reflection and small tweaks lead to long-term success.
Homeschooling confidence grows with consistency.

Links and Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt31

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

The Secret to Homeschool Consistency: Minimum Viable Days Jan 28, 2025

Are you ready to tackle consistency in your homeschool? In this episode, I’m joined by Dawn Garrett to talk about one of my favorite tools: the Minimum Viable Day (MVD). We share how this simple concept helped us overcome perfectionism and establish daily momentum in our homeschools. Learn how to identify what truly matters for your family, create a flexible fallback plan, and build trust with your kids—all while simplifying your homeschool days.

Key Takeaways:

What a Minimum Viable Day is and why it’s a game-changer for consistency.
How MVD evolves with your homeschool season and supports your unique needs.
Practical tips for creating your own MVD and sticking to it.

Key Resources:

Homeschool Better Together Podcast

Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayiri

How the States Got Their Shapes

Magic School Bus

Zoboomafoo

Liberty's Kids

Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? by Rebecca Tinker

Atomic Habits by James Clear

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt30

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Achieve Big Things in 2025: Goal Setting Made Simple Dec 31, 2024

It’s time to make 2025 the year of intentional progress! In this episode, I’m joined by Laney Homan, our member success manager, to talk about goal setting that works for busy homeschool moms. Laney and I discuss the difference between planning and goal setting, the power of starting small, and how to craft goals that fit your life’s current season.

We share personal stories—like Laney’s inspiring journey to tackle health and fitness goals (she climbed a literal mountain!)—and I reflect on finding meaningful ways to reclaim my evenings. Whether you're climbing your own mountain or simply figuring out the next right step, this episode is full of practical advice to help you move toward growth in your homeschool and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

The distinction between planning tasks and setting intentional goals.
Breaking goals into tiny, achievable steps to build momentum.
Why it's essential to align goals with your family’s needs and current life season.
How tools like goal cards and habit tracking can help keep you on course.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt29

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Find Your Word: A Simple Guide to Starting 2025 Strong Dec 24, 2024

This episode of Homeschool Better Together dives into the concept of choosing a word of the year and how it can add intentionality and focus to your homeschool journey. I’m joined by Dawn Garrett, our community manager, as we share our personal experiences, thoughts, and even some fun quirks about selecting and living out our yearly words.

From the practical to the reflective, we talk about how a word of the year can shape your mindset, guide your decisions, and create a more purposeful year ahead. Whether you’ve been hesitant or are a seasoned word chooser, there’s something here for you, including tips on avoiding perfectionism and embracing the process. We also introduce our upcoming workshop, where we’ll help you choose your word and explore ways to live it fully.

Key Takeaways:

Words of the year as tools for personal growth and homeschool focus.
The difference between setting goals and choosing a guiding word.
How to reflect on, engage with, and incorporate your word into daily life.
Details about our Align Workshop and how it ties into Elevate Homeschool 2025.

Resource List:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt28

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Books That Spark Joy: A Chat with Sarah Mackenzie Dec 03, 2024

This episode of the Homeschool Better Together Podcast features a delightful conversation with Sarah Mackenzie from the Read Aloud Revival. Sarah and I chat about rekindling the joy of reading for ourselves as moms. We explore the power of quitting books that don’t spark joy, the fun of keeping a reading log, and how to find books that truly resonate with you. Plus, we dive into reading challenges—are they motivating or just another checklist? Spoiler: we both have strong opinions!

We also talk about Sarah’s exciting projects with Waxwing Books, including a middle-grade fantasy novel perfect for family read-alouds. If your reading life needs a little inspiration or you're searching for the perfect book list, this episode is packed with ideas and encouragement to get you turning pages again.

Key Takeaways:

Rekindle your love for reading by giving yourself permission to quit books that don’t excite you.
A simple reading log can help you reflect on and savor what you’ve read.
Waxwing Books’ upcoming middle-grade fantasy, Beyond Mulberry Glen, is an excellent family read-aloud.
Reading challenges can be fun if approached with flexibility—don’t let them feel like a burden.

Key Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt27

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Turning Lunch Into Learning: Tips From a Busy Homeschool Mom Nov 19, 2024

In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I’m joined by my friend Sunni Dallas, a mom of seven, who shares how she uses the Wonder World Podcast to enrich her homeschool days—especially when life is busy with babies, toddlers, and teens. Sunni talks about how lunchtime has become the perfect anchor for learning, where we provide the content, and she simply hits play. From history to fables, Wonder World is her go-to resource for a mini morning time with her kids.

We also chat about other resources Sunni uses to simplify homeschooling and keep her big family engaged without overloading herself with planning. If you’ve ever struggled to keep up with morning time or need a fresh way to make learning work with multiple ages, Sunni’s approach will give you ideas and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

Using Wonder World at lunch for a “mini morning time” when life gets busy.
Tips for balancing homeschooling with kids of all ages.
Practical resources and routines that keep homeschool simple and fun.
How using pre-prepared resources frees up time and keeps kids engaged.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt26

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Five Reasons You Shouldn’t Teach 'A Christmas Carol' This Year (Or Should You?) Nov 05, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I’m joined by Dawn Garrett to chat about our special gift for homeschoolers this year—A Christmas Carol explorations! We’re offering a free resource full of fun activities, discussions, and enrichment to bring some holiday cheer into your homeschool. Dawn and I go over the history behind this yearly gift, why we’re excited about A Christmas Carol as this year's theme, and a few reasons you might not want to skip this one.

I share my journey of rediscovering the story’s true meaning and why it’s a perfect classic to enjoy as a family. We also talk about the Camp Christmas upgrade, packed with even more holiday fun, crafts, and planning resources to keep your homeschool cozy and memorable this season.

Key Points:

A Christmas Carol explorations as a free holiday gift.
Why this story offers valuable lessons in a family-friendly way.
Optional Camp Christmas upgrade for extra activities, crafts, and planning tools.
Fun community challenges and a chance to win prizes.

Resources and Links

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt(25)

What Seven Years of Boot Camp Taught Us About Homeschooling Oct 22, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I sit down with Dawn Garrett, our customer service guru, to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned over seven years of running the Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp. We talk about how consistency—not perfection—can transform your homeschool and why sticking with even a “minimum viable day” can make all the difference.

Dawn and I share some of the challenges homeschool moms face and how the Boot Camp provides tools and mindset shifts to help you stay the course. We also chat about the power of accountability and how taking charge—though exhausting—yields big results.

If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode will inspire you to take small steps toward consistency and show how even imperfect days can lead to long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

Consistency matters more than curriculum or homeschool method.
The "minimum viable day" helps keep you on track, even on tough days.
Taking charge can be tiring, but it leads to the best results.
Accountability plays a huge role in building consistent habits.
There’s never a perfect time to start—just jump in and begin today.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt24

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

From Overwhelm to Joy: Katie McCune's Consistency Success Story Oct 15, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I’m chatting with Katie McCune, a mom from our community, about her journey with the Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp. Katie shares how, before the boot camp, their homeschool days were often filled with morning time and spontaneous field trips, but progress through their core subjects was slow. She talks about how she struggled with perfectionism and how that mindset made it hard to feel satisfied with her homeschool efforts.

We discuss how the boot camp helped her implement small, consistent habits that made a huge difference. Katie shares how the accountability and practical tips she learned transformed her homeschool—leading to less resistance from her kids and a much more joyful, organized approach. We also dive into how showing up consistently helped Katie feel more confident and in control, making homeschooling feel more like a rewarding vocation.

If you’re on the fence about joining the boot camp, this episode will give you a peek into how it can help you move from feeling overwhelmed to building a homeschool routine you can feel proud of.

Key Takeaways:

Katie’s struggles with consistency and perfectionism before boot camp.
How the Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp helped build effective routines.
The impact of consistent habits on reducing resistance from kids.
Homeschooling as a vocation: showing up every day with purpose.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt23

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

The Secret to Consistency: Honoring Your Homeschool Hours Oct 08, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I’m talking about one key mindset shift that can make a world of difference in your homeschool—honoring your school day. It’s easy to let distractions take over or convince ourselves that we can always multitask, but setting aside dedicated time for homeschooling is critical. I’ll share how this simple change has transformed our homeschool and made our days smoother and more consistent.

I also dive into why multitasking during school hours might be the very thing holding you back. When we try to do it all, it’s easy to lose focus on what’s most important—being fully present with our kids during school time. I’ll give you some practical tips to make sure you’re honoring that school day, avoiding the temptation to juggle too much, and making the most of your homeschool hours.

Key Points:

Honoring your school day means prioritizing dedicated homeschool time.
Avoid multitasking during school hours to stay focused.
Being present with your kids during lessons helps keep the day productive.
Choose just two priorities for each day, with homeschooling being one of them.

Key Resources:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt22

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Why Perfectionism is Sabotaging Your Homeschool Oct 01, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I’m giving you a bit of a pep talk. I’ve been there—staring at the clock, realizing the day is slipping away and thinking, “If I can’t follow my perfect plan, I might as well do nothing.” Sound familiar? Well, I discovered that my problem wasn’t laziness—it was perfectionism. And that perfectionism was sabotaging my ability to be consistent with homeschooling.

I talk about how embracing imperfection helped me break through the inconsistency in our homeschool. I realized that half-hearted school days and not following the plan exactly were still valuable. The key is to show up and do something, even if it’s not perfect. I also share how creating a “minimum viable day” helped me focus on the most important subjects and stay consistent, even on the craziest days.

If you’re feeling stuck because things aren’t going perfectly, I encourage you to give yourself some grace. Consistency over perfection is what will make a huge difference in your homeschool.

Key Takeaways:

Perfectionism can sabotage your homeschool consistency.
Even imperfect school days can be effective.
The “minimum viable day” approach helps focus on essential subjects.
Consistency, not perfection, builds long-term homeschool success.

Links and Resources:

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt21

Inside Our Homeschool: 2024-2025 Curriculum Picks Sep 24, 2024

In this episode of the Homeschool Better Together podcast, I’m sharing an overview of our curriculum choices for the 2024-2025 school year. With both a senior and a 9th grader, our homeschool routine is a bit different, and I’m excited to walk you through our approach.

We start each day with a focused morning time that sets the tone for learning, followed by individual subjects tailored to each child’s needs and interests. I’ll also share tips on how we keep our homeschool organized and why staying flexible is key to a successful year.

Key Takeaways

Overview of our curriculum choices for a senior and 9th grader.
The importance of a focused morning time.
Tips for staying organized and flexible in homeschool.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt20

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Stop Overworking and Start Enjoying Your Homeschool Sep 17, 2024

In this episode, I share a hard-learned lesson: as homeschooling moms, we shouldn't be the ones working the hardest! I used to think every lesson had to be fun and engaging, but it turns out, simplicity and consistency are key.

I talk about the importance of short, manageable lessons and meeting our kids where they are—focusing on what really matters. Morning time routines have also been a game changer, bringing our family together and making our homeschool days more joyful. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember to simplify, breathe, and focus on building those meaningful relationships.

Key Takeaways:

Simplify lessons and keep them short.
Focus on consistency rather than perfection.
Meet your kids where they are and consider their preferences.
Incorporate a morning time routine for structure and joy.

Resources & Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt19

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

When Homeschool Excitement Fizzles: Strategies to Keep Going Sep 10, 2024

In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I'm tackling something we all face—the way that initial excitement of a new homeschool year can quickly fade. Trust me, I’ve been there too. So, let's chat about what happens when that "honeymoon period" ends and how to handle it without the guilt.

I’ll share how I’ve learned to go with the natural ups and downs of homeschooling instead of forcing the same energy all year long. It's about finding what works for your family and allowing yourself those slower days.

I’ll also walk you through some simple strategies like tracking your homeschool patterns, making adjustments when needed, and not beating yourself up when things don’t go perfectly. Plus, I’ll talk about the importance of connecting with other homeschool moms, because we’re all in this together.

Key Takeaways:

It's normal for the excitement of the new homeschool year to fade.
Track your homeschool patterns to plan better.
Embrace productive times and allow for rest during slower periods.
Give yourself grace; perfection isn’t the goal.
Connect with other homeschoolers for support and encouragement.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt18

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Navigating a Challenging Homeschool Start Sep 03, 2024

Starting a new homeschool year is exciting but can also feel overwhelming. In this episode, I share some of the common challenges we face, like kids resisting lessons or forgetting things over the break. I offer practical tips to ease the transition, like involving your kids in planning, starting with subjects they enjoy, and reviewing key skills before diving into new material.

I also talk about managing that overwhelming feeling by setting a flexible schedule, prioritizing homeschooling, and getting kids involved in household chores. Remember, feeling overwhelmed shows how much you care about your kids' education—and you’ve got this!

Key Takeaways:

Involve kids in planning to reduce resistance.
Start with enjoyable subjects and gradually extend lesson time.
Review key skills forgotten over the summer before moving forward.
Set a flexible schedule around homeschooling and prioritize it.
Get kids involved in age-appropriate chores to help manage the household.

Resources and Links:

Homeschool Better Together Community

Math-U-See

Morning Time Plans

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt17

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Simple Tips for Starting New Homeschool Routines Aug 27, 2024

Oh, my goodness! Starting a new homeschool year can feel like a rollercoaster with its ups and downs. In this episode, I share my favorite strategies to make this transition smoother and more enjoyable. We talk about dealing with that first-week exhaustion and finding the right balance between excitement and routine.

Curious about my secrets for a smoother start? Tune in to hear how small changes, handy reminders, and a bit of night-before prep can make a big difference.

Join our free community at pambarnhill.com/freecommunity for more tips and support from fellow homeschoolers. Share this episode with other homeschooling families to help them have a great start to the new school year.

Key Takeaways:

Strategies for easing into the new school year.
Balancing excitement with routine.
Sneak peek at tips involving small changes, reminders, and night-before prep.
Invitation to join our supportive community for more ideas and support.

Key Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt16

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Start the School Year Right With Fun Traditions Aug 20, 2024

As summer winds down, our family loves to kick off the school year with a special back-to-school tradition. For the past few years, we've visited the donut shop, and it's become a cherished ritual for us. From picking out donuts to snapping a photo outside the shop, this simple tradition brings us joy and wonderful memories.

In this episode, I share why having a back-to-school tradition is important and how it can strengthen family bonds. I also offer tips on starting your own tradition, whether it's big or small, and emphasize keeping it simple and meaningful.

Join me as I reflect on our tradition and encourage you to create your own special back-to-school memories. For more ideas and support, join our free community at pambarnhill.com.

Key Points:

The joy and importance of back-to-school traditions.
Our family's donut shop tradition.
Tips for starting your own back-to-school tradition.
Encouragement to keep traditions simple and meaningful.
Invitation to join our supportive community at pambarnhill.com.

Resources and Link:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt15

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

How Wonder Studies Can Transform Your Homeschooling Experience With Multiple Kids Aug 13, 2024

In this episode, I sit down with Lindsay Korte, a seasoned homeschool mom of 10, to discuss the joys and challenges of homeschooling a large family. Lindsay shares her journey of 15 years of homeschooling, starting from the early days of teaching multiple young children together, to adjusting her approach as her kids grew older.

We dive into the importance of family learning and how Lindsay uses resources like our Morning Time Explorations to create a rich, enjoyable homeschool experience for all her kids, from preschoolers to teens. She also shares insights on balancing the chaos of homeschooling with a large family, the benefits of learning together, and how our Wonder Studies have played a key role in her homeschool.

Tune in for practical tips, heartwarming stories, and a peek into how Lindsay keeps the wonder alive in her homeschool.

Key Takeaways:

Lindsay’s 15-year homeschooling journey with 10 kids.
The value of family learning and using Morning Time Explorations.
How Wonder Studies enriches homeschooling for all ages.
Balancing the chaos and joy of homeschooling a large family.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt14

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

BONUS: Your Morning Basket Plus is Now Wonder Studies! Aug 09, 2024

I’m excited to announce that Your Morning Basket Plus is now Wonder Studies! This new name reflects our expanded focus, which still includes your favorite Morning Time Explorations and Little Explorers programs but now also offers Voyages—unit studies that make it easier for your entire family to integrate learning across all subjects.

We’re offering a special bonus to celebrate: join as an annual member by August 16, 2024, and receive a free Morning Time Journal and Planner!

Tune in for all the details, and feel free to reach out with any questions!

Links and Resources:

Key Ideas:

Your Morning Basket Plus is now Wonder Studies.
Wonder Studies includes the original Morning Time Explorations and Little Explorers programs, plus new Voyages—unit studies that cover various subjects for the whole family.
Join as an annual member by August 16th and receive a free Morning Time Journal and Planner.
Wonder Studies helps integrate learning across all ages, making homeschooling more cohesive and enjoyable.

Add Wonder to Your Homeschool With Unit Studies Aug 06, 2024

Struggling to keep your homeschooling engaging and effective? I’ve got you covered! In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, Laney Homan and I chat about the benefits of unit studies. I share memories of my early homeschooling days, filled with unit studies that made learning come alive for my kids.

Laney, a busy mom of eight, brings her real-life experiences to the table. She shares tips on integrating unit studies into a busy homeschool schedule. Laney explains how unit studies can simplify planning, foster closer family relationships, and make learning together more enjoyable.

Resources and Links:

HSBT Community

Key Ideas:

Discover the components of the Wonder Studies program, including Little Explorers for early education, Explorations for the arts, and Voyages for content subjects like history and science.
Learn how the program is designed to accommodate children of varying ages, with tasks tailored to the child's age and skill level, including differentiated written and oral narrations for older children.
Explore the benefits of unit studies, including making connections across different subjects, creating consistency in learning, and reducing burnout for both children and parents.
Understand how the Explorations approach integrates natural connections across subjects, avoiding contrived links, and provides flexibility by not adhering strictly to a historical timeline.
Hear insights from Laney Homan on using themed morning time explorations, how it has helped her children make better connections in history, and enhanced their overall subject understanding.
Recognize the challenges of homeschooling, the importance of perseverance, and the value of finding a homeschooling method that works uniquely for each family.
Learn about the mentorship opportunities provided through the Wonder Studies membership, including 15-minute calls with Laney Homan to guide parents and create a supportive homeschooling community.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt13

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

What I Really Think About Homeschool Methods Jul 30, 2024

Feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of homeschooling methods? You're not alone! In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I explore the diverse world of homeschooling options, from classical education to unschooling. I share my personal journey of “uschooling” and highlight the importance of creating a personalized education plan that fits your family’s unique needs.

You'll find practical advice on researching and implementing different homeschooling methods, along with valuable resources like a downloadable cheat sheet and interviews with moms who use various methods.

Tune in to learn how to step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder of homeschooling, finding a method that brings joy and effectiveness to your educational journey.

Resources and Links:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the benefits of the autopilot planning process, making homeschool planning easier and more efficient, even if you start late in the summer.
Understand the concept of "uschooling," focusing on creating a homeschool experience unique to your family’s needs rather than strictly adhering to any single method.
Learn about various homeschooling methods, including classical education, Charlotte Mason, unschooling, and unit studies, and their foundational views on children’s education.
Access resources like interviews with homeschooling parents to gain insights into different teaching methods and how they are applied in various family settings.
Recognize that while understanding different homeschooling methods can be beneficial, it’s crucial to prioritize what works best for your family over strict adherence to any method.
Explore the potential pitfalls of over-committing to a particular method, such as causing stress and dissatisfaction within the family dynamic.
Get recommendations for approachable reading materials to better understand and incorporate different educational philosophies without becoming overwhelmed.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt12

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Citizenship Together: Simplified Civics for Your Homeschool Jul 23, 2024

Are you ready to make civics a fun and engaging part of your homeschool? Pam Barnhill and Meg Angelino discuss the new "Citizenship Together" curriculum, designed to bring government and citizenship concepts to life through detailed, engaging lessons. Meg, with her extensive background in history and education, shares practical tips for seamlessly integrating this curriculum into your homeschool, making planning easier and more efficient.

In this episode, Pam and Meg tackle the challenges of creating unbiased educational materials and explain how "Citizenship Together" can help your family have respectful political discussions. They highlight the importance of teaching kids about government functions, election processes, and their impact on everyday life. Tune in to learn how to foster closer family relationships while making learning about civics enjoyable and relevant for your children.

Resources and Links:

Citizenship Together Curriculum
HSBT Community
For Which We Stand: How Our Government Works and Why It Matters by Jeff Foster

Key Takeaways:

Discover the benefits of teaching citizenship and civics through a curriculum designed to be inclusive and manageable for homeschool families, reinforcing children's understanding of their roles and responsibilities in society.
Learn about discerning accurate information on social media and the internet, and the importance of teaching young people to critically evaluate sources and understand government-related topics.
Engage children in respectful political discussions, helping them understand that divergent opinions can be discussed civilly, and the importance of these discussions in fostering a healthy understanding of democratic processes.
Explore the comprehensive unit that covers various aspects of government and elections, from the presidency to local elections, branches of government, special interest groups, and the supreme court, emphasizing their interconnectedness.
Understand the significance of integrating primary sources like the Constitution and Bill of Rights into the curriculum, and how discussions and activities around these documents can deepen children's understanding of US government principles.
Hear about practical ways to involve children in the political process, such as taking them to vote, visiting polling places, and participating in local community activities, making the experience educational and memorable.
Recognize the importance of making learning feel personal and relatable by using the term "citizenship" over "civics," and how this approach helps children connect more deeply with the subject matter and their role in the community.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt11

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

How to Tailor Homeschooling to Your Kid's Strengths and Interests With Colleen Kessler Jul 16, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Colleen Kessler, an education consultant with a master's degree in gifted education, homeschool mom, podcast host, and author. We'll be discussing Colleen's latest book, "The Homeschool Advantage," which highlights how to leverage children's strengths and passions in the homeschooling environment.

Colleen shares invaluable insights on adopting a strength-based approach to education, emphasizing the importance of knowing your children's interests and goals to craft a personalized and engaging learning experience. She also advises against investing too much money on new activities initially, allowing kids to naturally develop their interests.

We’ll touch on practical strategies like using unit studies to incorporate various subjects and discuss the beauty of flexibility in homeschooling—adapting to children's changing interests and needs as they grow. Colleen offers heartfelt encouragement that any parent who loves their child can successfully homeschool, providing practical tips and wisdom gleaned from her experiences.

Join us as we explore how to create a well-rounded and tailored educational experience for your children, step out of overwhelm, and step into wonder on this episode of Homeschool Better Together Podcast.

Links and Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the benefits of a strength-based approach to education by focusing on kids' strengths and passions to enhance their homeschooling experience.
Understand the importance of knowing your child’s interests and integrating those interests into their education to create a more engaging and personalized learning environment.
Learn practical advice on introducing new activities without spending a lot initially, allowing children to develop their interests organically and showing initiative.
Hear about Colleen Kessler's experiences in tailoring education to her children's strengths and passions, including using alternative methods like online simulations for subjects they are less enthusiastic about.
Explore the unit study approach to homeschooling, incorporating various subjects around a child's interest to create a well-rounded and flexible curriculum.
Gain insights on managing homeschooling for multiple children by combining interests and subjects, particularly when they are younger and more controllable.
Delve into the balance of offering children autonomy in their education while ensuring they acquire essential knowledge to become contributing members of society.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt10

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Simplify Language Arts With Books Your Whole Family Will Love Jul 09, 2024

Feeling overwhelmed with language arts education in your homeschool? Join hosts Pam Barnhill, Meg Angelino, and Laney Homan, in episode nine of Homeschool Better Together, as they discuss how literature-based learning can revolutionize language arts education for your family. Discover the transformative power of integrating grammar, writing style, literary analysis, and vocabulary activities through high-quality literature, all within one flexible program.

Explore the hosts' personal experiences and insights as they discuss the benefits of using literature to teach grammar, the adaptability of the program for children with different ages and abilities, and the positive impact it has had on their own read-aloud sessions with their kids. Gain a deeper understanding of how this holistic approach to language arts offers an enriching and enjoyable learning experience, without the tedium of traditional grammar programs.

Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that will bring clarity and inspiration to your language arts journey. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, this episode is for you!

Links and Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the benefits of using literature to teach grammar, emphasizing a deeper understanding of grammar through actual writing.
Learn how unintentional learning occurs for younger children when participating in discussions or activities targeted at older kids.
Explore the structured yet adaptable nature of the program, with solid pedagogical practices like narration, copywork, dictation, and vocabulary study.
Understand the flexibility and independence the program allows, including space for independent exploration, with minimal preparation required.
Hear about the ease of incorporating the language arts program into homeschooling, emphasizing the lack of added stress and friction.
Gain insight into the program's approach to teaching grammar through literature, preserving the pleasure of the story while providing structure without being overly rigid.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt9

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Simplify Your Homeschool Options With These Five Curriculum Types Jul 02, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. In this episode, host Pam Barnhill explores five different types of curriculum—scripted, open-and-go, fixed grid, buffet, and whole-family learning—and discusses how each one can meet the unique needs of your homeschool journey.

By understanding the different kinds of curricula available and how each can fit your family's needs, you'll be well-equipped to make decisions that reduce stress and enhance your homeschooling adventure. So, grab your notepad, maybe a smoothie, and let's step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder of homeschooling better together.

Key Takeaways:

Learn about different types of curriculum, including scripted, open and go, fixed grid, buffet, and whole-family learning, to find what works best for your homeschool style and needs.
Understand the advantages of scripted curriculum for new homeschooling parents and how it can provide a structured yet flexible learning experience.
Explore the concept of open and go curriculum and how balancing it with other types can simplify your homeschool year and reduce planning fatigue.
Gain insight into fixed grid curriculum and the snaking loop schedule as a method to avoid overwhelm and ensure a balanced approach to using comprehensive resources.
Get tips on effectively using buffet curriculum by setting specific goals, prioritizing materials, and making decisions in advance to avoid decision fatigue.
Appreciate the value of whole-family learning curriculum, with a realistic approach to age range, to foster family unity and efficient multi-age education.

Resources and Links:

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt8

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

How Planning Brings More Wonder Into Your Homeschool Jun 25, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. In this episode, host Pam Barnhill shares four practical tips that will help you move from feeling overwhelmed to prepared; ensuring your homeschooling days are filled with curiosity, excitement, and wonder. Whether it’s planning amazing field trips, following your kids' interests with a Wonder Wall, or incorporating morning basket time into your routine, this episode has you covered.

Listen in for practical tips on selecting the best resources, making your homeschool both orderly and enriching, and creating an environment tailored to the interests of your children. Let's step out of the overwhelm and into the joy of learning together!

Key Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the structured approach to choosing curriculum as the fourth step in homeschooling planning, detailing the prior steps including reviewing the homeschool vision and setting specific student goals.
Learn how to incorporate wonder into your homeschool planning, focusing on creating opportunities for children to wonder about the world rather than only experiencing big, awe-inspiring moments.
Understand the importance of intentionality in your homeschool vision and goals, specifically how setting specific aims for introducing wonder can transform your educational environment.
Explore practical scheduling strategies to include wonder regularly, whether through field trips, weekly or biweekly wonder activities, or daily morning basket routines.
Get insights on following your children's interests by creating a Wonder Wall, allowing them to contribute topics they are curious about and using this input to plan engaging studies.
Hear suggestions for preparing ahead to gather the best resources, such as highly-recommended books, videos, and games, ensuring these materials are enriching and inspiring for your children.
Learn about the benefits of leveraging the Homeschool Better Together community to crowdsource recommendations, helping you find high-quality educational tools and foster a collaborative learning experience.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt7

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

From Chaos to Confidence: Organizing Your Homeschool Year With Guest Amie Gardner Jun 18, 2024

Welcome back to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast. In today's episode, host Pam Barnhill and guest Amie Gardner dive into the intricacies of homeschool planning and the tools that can make it all more manageable. Amie shares her experience using Put Your Homeschool Year on Autopilot, which has been a game-changer in balancing lesson plans for her family and creating a confident, structured homeschooling environment.

We'll also hear about Amie's journey from feeling overwhelmed with curriculum to finding flexibility and peace of mind. Pam and Amie reflect on the pressures of finding the perfect curriculum and fostering a love for learning in children.

This episode is packed with valuable insights, practical tips, and heartfelt discussion aimed at helping you navigate your homeschooling journey with confidence and ease.

Resource and Links:

Key Takeaways:

Discover how Amie Gardner uses Put Your Year on Autopilot and Plan Your Year to simplify homeschool planning, providing a checks and balances system for her lesson planning
Understand the benefits of online homeschool planners in tracking and shifting dates, helping to create an organized education plan within a short timeframe.
Explore the flexibility and customization offered by Plan Your Year, making it adaptable for any homeschool approach and reducing chaos in daily schedules.
Hear Amie's journey from starting homeschooling due to her oldest child's struggles in public school, to finding the right resources that helped her develop a confident and effective homeschool routine.
Learn the advantages and potential challenges of the buffet curriculum approach, and the importance of making decisions ahead of time to avoid decision fatigue.
Gain insights into the benefits of structured yet flexible planning processes that provide a sense of direction, reduce overwhelm, and ensure comprehensive subject coverage.
Reflect on the balance between finding the perfect curriculum and fostering a love for learning, understanding the pressure on curriculum providers and the value of scripted homeschool curriculums.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt6

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Homeschool Lesson Planning Made Simple Jun 11, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. In this episode, host Pam Barnhill provides actionable tips to help make your homeschool planning simpler and more flexible. Pam tackles some common struggles, such as, when life happens and your perfectly laid plans fall apart. Listen in for practical solutions like lesson plan lists, loop schedules, and procedure lists that will help you stay organized without the stress of rigid grids.

These tips are designed to help you create a homeschool plan that adapts to your family's needs, eliminates decision fatigue, and lets you enjoy the journey more. These strategies have been lifesavers for many fellow homeschoolers.

If you're ready to bring joy back into your homeschooling, don’t miss today’s episode. Let's step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder together!

Key Takeaways:

Simplify homeschool planning by using lesson plan lists, where lessons are ordered by subject rather than assigning specific activities to specific days, creating flexibility in case of unexpected interruptions.
Adopt loop scheduling to balance subjects and avoid falling behind in one area while getting too far ahead in another, ensuring consistent progress across all subjects.
Utilize procedure lists to streamline the curriculum, specifying the steps needed to meet educational goals, thus making the daily execution of lessons straightforward and manageable.
Consider focusing more on the joy and wonder of learning rather than strictly adhering to rigid plans, to alleviate the feeling of failure when plans don't go as expected.
Create an efficient homeschooling record-keeping method by annotating completed lessons with dates on your lists, eliminating the need for post-hoc filling of grids or records.
Enhance engagement through varied activities, such as incorporating books, videos, and interactive tasks, tailored to meet your educational objectives in an enjoyable way for kids.
Explore available courses, such as the autopilot planning course, which provide detailed guidance and tools for more effective homeschool planning and execution.

Resources and Links:

Homeschool Better Together Podcast

Wonder World Podcast

Put Your Homeschool On Autopilot

Innovative Loop Schedule

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt5

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Which Kind of Homeschool Mom Are You? Part Two Jun 04, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we journey through the challenging yet rewarding world of homeschooling as a community. In today's episode, you'll discover how strategic planning frameworks can relieve the overwhelm of daily decision-making, turning any curriculum into a seamless, open-and-go experience.

Whether you're like "Best Intention Becky," who loves to plan but tends to overdo it or "Carefree Cathy," who thrives on spontaneity but struggles to cover the core subjects, this episode offers flexible planning techniques like lesson plan lists and magic number scheduling that could be perfect for you. Pam candidly discusses her own struggles with maintaining spontaneity while keeping up with homeschooling demands and introduces flexible planning approaches that can offer peace and predictability amidst life's uncertainties.

Tune in for real stories, practical tips, and empowering resources to make your homeschooling journey more joyful and less stressful. Let's make homeschooling better, together!

Links and Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Learn how structuring your homeschooling approach with lists rather than rigid schedules can provide the flexibility to accommodate life's uncertainties and spontaneous learning moments.
Understand the role of a vision statement in creating an effective homeschool plan, allowing parents to test their decisions against their long-term educational goals and stay disciplined.
Explore the concept of lesson plan lists without specific dates, combined with magic number scheduling as techniques to maintain educational progression without the stress of constant replanning.
Gain insights into reducing stress and decision fatigue by using flexible planning frameworks that turn any curriculum into an open-and-go format, improving the overall homeschooling experience.
Recognize the importance of periodic reviews to calmly assess the effectiveness of your homeschool plan, ensuring it remains adaptable and aligned with your family's needs and goals.
Discover how autopilot planning can help families stay on track with homeschooling even in the face of unexpected events, like Alicia Brooklands did after hurricane Michael.
Hear Pam's reflections on homeschooling year-round, managing seasonal breaks, and the impact of flexible planning on maintaining a joyful and balanced learning environment for her family.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt4

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Four Kinds of Homeschool Moms: Which Kind of Homeschool Mom Are You? Part One May 28, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. In this episode, host Pam Barnhill shares insights and practical tips for determining what's "enough" for your family.

Pam breaks down four homeschool mom personality types - Carefree Cathy, Best Intention Becky, Strategic Susan, and Overwhelmed Olivia. You'll find out which type resonates with you and gain valuable advice for overcoming the unique struggles each type faces.

Tune in to discover that while each personality type has its struggles, there are practical solutions and encouragement to help you homeschool better. So grab your favorite drink, take a break, and get ready to be empowered to step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder of homeschooling better together.

Links and Resources:

Which Kind of Homeschool Mom Are You? Part 2

Homeschool Better Together Community

Put Your Year on Autopilot

Plan Your Year

Key Takeaways:

Reflect on the concept of "enough" in homeschooling and the process of defining what "enough" means for your family.
Explore the importance of creating a vision for your homeschool and how it helps in determining what is "enough" for your family.
Delve into the personality types of homeschool moms, including Carefree Cathy, Homeschooler Best Intention Becky, Strategic Susan, and Overwhelmed Olivia.
Understand the struggles and challenges faced by each homeschool mom personality type in their homeschooling journey.
Recognize that it's okay to enjoy the homeschool planning process, even if you don't get to implement every single plan.
Acknowledge the impact of unexpected life events on homeschool plans and the need to adapt and adjust to challenges.
Learn about joining the free homeschool community and share insights about the identified homeschool mom personality type.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt3

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

The Forgotten Three: Essential Life Skills Our Kids Need May 23, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, where we explore building a joyful homeschool experience for your family. Are you looking to equip your kids with valuable life skills and build confidence in the kitchen? Then you won't want to miss Episode 2. In this episode, the host, Pam Barnhill, is joined by Katie Kimball, the national voice of Healthy Kids Cooking, two time TEDx speaker, writer, and mom of 4 kids who founded the Kids Cook Real Food ecourse, which was recommended by The Wall Street Journal as the best online cooking class for kids.

Together, they explore the world of teaching kids important life skills and the impact of the digital age on parenting.

Katie shares her journey from being an elementary teacher to a successful entrepreneur and mom of four kids, discussing the challenges of parenting in the digital age and the necessity of teaching kids face-to-face communication, understanding the value of money, and stress management in this tech-heavy and busy world.

The episode is packed with insights and practical tips from experts on developing these vital life skills in kids and teens, making it an invaluable resource for today's homeschooling parents.

Links and Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the value of teaching life skills beyond academics to help children thrive in the digital age and beyond, including communication, financial literacy, and stress management.
Understand the importance of face-to-face communication skills and how to teach children polite communication, eye contact, and how to start conversations.
Explore the concept of financial literacy for children, including understanding the value of physical money, opening a checking account, and the basics of banking and compound interest.
Learn the practical skills of self-regulation, including tools for calming, morning routines, and mastering resilience to help kids cope with stress and anxiety in today’s tech-heavy world.
Gain insights into how the workshops offered in the Life Skills Now summer camp provide practical, hands-on learning experiences for children to develop essential life skills.
Discover the benefits of the Life Skills Now summer camp, which includes an extensive selection of workshops, prizes to motivate participation, and the opportunity for kids to apply what they've learned.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt2

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

What is Homeschool Better Together? May 21, 2024

Welcome to the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, the place where we explore the wonders of homeschooling as a community. In this episode, host Pam Barnhill shares her personal experience of finishing up the school year with her kids and introduces the new direction of the podcast. She reflects on the importance of simplifying the podcast and merging two previous podcasts into one, focusing on the theme of homeschooling better together.

Pam emphasizes the significance of family learning, building relationships, and fostering a sense of wonder in the homeschooling journey. She also invites listeners to join the Homeschool Better Together community. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with practical tips, conversations with experts, and inspiration to make homeschooling more joyful and effective.

Links and Resources:

Key Takeaways:

Discover the concept of the "I'm done list" as a practical tool for wrapping up the school year, allowing students to focus on completing specific tasks and bringing closure to various subjects.
Understand the transition from the previous podcasts to the new "Homeschool Better Together" podcast, which combines the themes of morning time and better homeschooling to create a holistic learning experience for families.
Gain insight into the importance of relationships in homeschooling, emphasizing how homeschooling better together can lead to long-lasting connections with children that surpass academic achievements.
Learn about the podcast's focus on homeschool topics, including planning, teaching math, accommodating gifted and twice exceptional kids, and incorporating various subjects such as science, history, and geography into the homeschool curriculum.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt1

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Homeschool Better Together Trailer May 20, 2024

Are you ready for homeschooling to feel joyful again? Do you need support as you learn alongside your kids? Welcome to Homeschool Better Together. Hosted by Pam Barnhill, this podcast shares how to stop questioning if you are doing enough and create a homeschool experience that fits your family.

Each Tuesday, we break down the big ideas into manageable chunks to give you the confidence and resources you need to finally step out of the overwhelm and into the wonder. Homeschool stories and practical tips are delivered straight to your earbuds full of inspiration and encouragement. They are perfect to listen to while running errands or folding a load of laundry. No matter what homeschool method you use, you’ll learn how to remove the overwhelm from your homeschool so you can focus on building relationships. To stay connected and learn even more about the Homeschooling Better Together resources, join the free community: https://pambarnhill.com/homeschool-better-together-podcast/

YMB #152 Five Habits for a Sacred Home With Jennifer Pepito Apr 30, 2024

In this episode of Your Morning Basket, host Pam Barnhill welcomes Jennifer Pepito, the host of the Restoration Home podcast, to chat about creating a sacred home environment. They dive into the inspiration behind Jennifer's newest book, "Habits for a Sacred Home," which draws from the monastery movement and the impact of spiritual disciplines on history. The conversation covers the specific practices that are essential for nurturing a literature-based homeschool and the role of daily prayer in creating a peaceful and connected community within the home.

Pam and Jennifer talk about the importance of a rule of life, which helps families identify their core values and live according to those values. To make it practical, the book includes different rules from St. Benedict paired with biographical sketches of women in history who exemplified those rules. The book also offers a study guide, recipe, prayer, scripture verses, and a pre-order offer with additional resources.

This episode is a treasure trove for homeschooling parents looking to infuse their homes with meaningful practices and spiritual disciplines. To get access to the resources and the pre-order offer, you can visit habitsforasacredhome.com.

Key Takeaways:

Understand the concept of a rule of life or a mission statement for homeschooling, and how it can provide a vision and direction for the education of children, as well as decision-making about curriculum and activities.
Experience the joys and benefits of incorporating daily prayer and poetry recitation into the homeschool routine, fostering a sense of spirituality and connection within the family.
Explore the idea of stewardship within the home, including the importance of teaching children responsibility through daily chores and room care, and the impact of cultivating inner calm through quiet time practices.
Learn about the historical significance of the monastery movement and see how this can inspire mothers to create a sense of community and stability within their homes, especially in turbulent times.
Embrace the freedom and peace that comes from living according to the values and disciplines of a sacred home, and how this approach can help mothers and families weather the challenges of our culture while living out their faith and values.

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb152

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #151 Five Ways to Do a Picture Study Apr 16, 2024

In this episode of Your Morning Basket, host Pam Barnhill and co-hosts Dawn Garrett and Laney Homan share insightful strategies for incorporating picture study into your homeschooling routine. This episode discusses the benefits of picture study, such as creating a mental gallery of paintings for children to enjoy as well as highlighting that it's not about learning art history, but rather about observing and appreciating the details in a painting.

Gain practical insights on how to conduct picture study sessions, including the basic method of observing a painting, discussing it with your children, and prompting them to think about and offer their own titles for the artwork. Whether you're new to picture study or looking for fresh ideas to invigorate your homeschooling curriculum, this episode has something for every homeschooling parent.

Key Takeaways:

Emphasize the value of setting a timer for 5 minutes to draw a painting as an exercise in attention, not about recreating the style of the artist.
Highlight the importance of dividing a painting into thirds and showing each part to children, focusing on details like colors, brushstrokes, light, and texture.
Discuss the process of telling a story about a picture to engage with the painting, emphasizing the use of details in the painting to guide the story.
Encourage the community to share more ideas for picture study and other activities in a free homeschool portal.
Stress the significance of building the habit of attention through picture study and other activities like nature study, music, and poetry.
Recommend not revealing the title of the painting initially to encourage critical thinking, and suggest asking questions to prompt children to think about the painting and offer their own titles.

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb151

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #150 Let's Gather for Nature Study with Heather Tully Apr 02, 2024

In this episode of “Your Morning Basket,” host Pam Barnhill and co-host Heather Tully, a mom of ten and a veteran morning time homeschooler, discuss the enriching experience of nature study. Parents will discover the benefits of incorporating nature study into their homeschool routine, learning how it can foster observation skills, connect children with science in a vivid and approachable way, and significantly benefit mental wellness by encouraging outdoor time.

This episode covers practical tips for making nature study a seamless part of morning time, including building drawing and watercoloring skills as well as choosing specific topics for deeper exploration. Listen in for inspiring strategies to bring the wonders of the natural world into your homeschool.

Key Takeaways:

Nature study in homeschooling encourages children to observe and connect with science in a tangible and engaging way.
Integrating nature study into morning time can be achieved through skill-building activities like drawing and watercoloring, and by focusing on thematic studies such as rocks or evergreens.
Even without venturing outdoors, nature study can be effectively conducted at the table with resources like nature lore books and magnifying glasses for closer observation.
Consistency in nature study can be fostered by forming groups for regular nature walks, thereby making the practice a communal and anticipated event.
Nature study not only deepens child's understanding of the natural world but also promotes mental well-being by encouraging them to spend time outside, observing and appreciating their surroundings.

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb150

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #149 Why We Don't Make High School Morning Time Plans Mar 19, 2024

If you're a homeschooling parent looking for meaningful ways to engage with your high schoolers and bring joy to your homeschool routine, this episode of Your Morning Basket is for you. Join host Pam Barnhill and co-hosts Laney Homan and Dawn Garrett, as they discuss incorporating Morning Time for high schoolers and the importance of Morning Time, plans that cater to the whole family.

Laney Homan shares her experience of using Morning Time plans with her senior high schooler and her 7-year-old, emphasizing the value of not making high school plans and engaging in enjoyable learning together. Dawn Garrett discusses making Morning Time count for high schoolers and provides insight into incorporating it into their daily routine.

Discover how morning time plans offer valuable learning experiences for children of different ages, including high schoolers. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that will inspire and guide you in making Morning Time work for your high schoolers!

Key Takeaways:

Morning time plans for homeschooling high schoolers can be varied and flexible, incorporating activities that cater to different subjects and interests.
Morning time plans include diverse activities, videos, picture study, poetry, and level-up activities suitable for older students.
High schoolers can engage with morning time plans through activities like math, which includes advanced concepts suitable for their age and ability.
Discover how morning time plans can benefit high schoolers and the whole family

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb149

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #148 Why Current Events? with Carl Azuz Mar 05, 2024

If you're a homeschooling mom looking for ways to incorporate current events into your homeschool, episode 148 of Your Morning Basket is a must-listen! Join host Pam Barnhill and returning guest, Carl Azuz the host and executive producer of The World From A to Z as they delve into the world of news and media literacy. Pam and Carl discuss the importance of engaging kids in meaningful conversations about global events and navigating the complex landscape of media and news consumption.

Carl shares his experience as a news presenter for CNN and his reasons behind creating, "The World From A to Z," a nonpartisan news show designed to provide a well-rounded look at international events, cultures, and stories for students. Discover how "The World From A to Z" can help bring current issues to your homeschool in a family-friendly manner.

Key Takeaways:

Learn how, The World From A to Z provides a well-rounded perspective on news and culture.
As homeschoolers, we have a unique opportunity to engage our kids in critical thinking conversations about what's happening in the world.
Carl shares his journey from CNN to creating The World From A to Z, a family friendly news outlet for students.
Carl encourages multiple perspectives and fact-checking in an ever growing digital age.
Learn how discussing news and current events can help our children think critically and have meaningful discussions.
Encourage our children to have well-rounded perspectives, especially on controversial topics.
Encourage our children to bridge disagreement and polarization within their communities with factual news information.
The World From A to Z runs a fresh, nine minute episode each weekday.

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb148

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #147 How Morning Time Can Save Your School in a Season of Burnout Feb 20, 2024

In this episode, discover practical strategies to combat burnout in your homeschool with Pam Barnhill and co-hosts, Ali Madej and Meg Angelino. You will gain valuable insight on using Morning Time and other tools to engage your children during times of curriculum fatigue, seasonal illness, new baby, or overall burnout.

This candid conversation acknowledges the natural ebbs and flows in the homeschooling journey and the importance of extending grace to both parents and children during periods of burnout. The team offers practical insights into managing grading and striking a balance between pleasurable learning and skill subjects.

Tune in to Your Morning Basket Podcast and start your journey towards a more intentional and joyful homeschooling approach today.

Key Ideas About Morning Time and Burnout

Utilize library apps, such as; Hoopla, Libby for audiobooks and online resources to engage kids in learning during times of burnout.
Embrace the fun and learning potential in Explorations, read-aloud time, and strewing to keep kids engaged.
Explore strategies for managing burnout, including; managing mom's health, starting with enjoyable subjects, and outsourcing subjects.
Emphasize the importance of balance and grace for both the homeschooling parent and the children during times of burnout.
See Morning Time as a fundamental tool to combat burnout.

Links and Resources

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb147

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #146 The Importance of Goals in Homeschool Morning Time Feb 06, 2024

Join Pam Barnhill and co-hosts Meg Angelino and Laney Homan as they delve into the purpose and structure of morning time in homeschooling. In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of setting goals for morning time, its role in fostering lifelong learning and family connections, and strategies for making it a valuable and efficient part of the homeschool day.

They share their personal experiences, tips, and insights on how to incorporate morning time into various homeschooling philosophies and its impact on family life.

Key Takeaways

Morning Time is adaptable and can work for families regardless of their homeschooling philosophy, prioritizing what is important for each family.
It provides an opportunity to include academic subjects, making homeschooling more efficient by teaching everyone at once.
It's important to incorporate enjoyable elements for each family member in morning time, using it as a fun way to introduce less favored subjects.
The hosts share their approaches to homeschooling and how morning time aligns with their individual philosophies.
Tips and insights are provided for moms looking to implement morning time in their homeschooling routine.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb146

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #145 Flashback Narration How-tos with Sonya Shafer Nov 21, 2023

Join hosts Pam Barnhill and Dawn Garrett as they revisit a classic episode of "Your Morning Basket" with Sonya Shafer, a homeschooling veteran, speaker, and writer specializing in the Charlotte Mason style of education. In this flashback episode, Sonya shares valuable insights into the power of narration and its role in developing children's personalities and engagement with books. Listen for practical tips for implementing narration, the effectiveness of oral compositions, and the benefits of using living books to foster the imagination.

Key Takeaways About Narration:

Learn how narration can engage children with books, develop their personalities, and enhance their oral composition, memory, and language skills.
Understand the importance of grace for both parents and children as they navigate the learning process, emphasizing patience and trust.
Explore the introduction of different types of narration, such as descriptive, expository, and persuasive, to students at various grade levels, and the stages of integrating these compositions into their education.
Gain advice on encouraging children's narration skills without over-analyzing, to foster higher-level thinking and a love for storytelling and expression.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb145

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #144 The Team's Favorite Christmas Books Nov 07, 2023

Get into the holiday spirit with the Your Morning Basket Podcast's special episode, "The Team's Favorite Christmas Books." Join host Pam Barnhill as she welcomes Betsy Cypress, Meg Angelino, Genie Shaw, Ali Madej, Jeanette Pascua, Laney Homan, Katy Wallace, and Dawn Garrett as they share their personal favorite Christmas picture books and family traditions. From heartwarming stories to meaningful activities, you'll discover new books to read and find inspiration for creating meaningful traditions with your own family. Don't miss out on this festive episode that will add warmth and joy to your holiday season.

Key Takeaways:

Discover new Christmas picture books to enjoy with your family, including Mortimer's Christmas Manger by Karma Wilson and The Adventure of Christmas by Lisa Welshell.
Start your own family traditions inspired by the podcast team's favorite activities, such as wrapping Hershey's Kisses as a countdown to Christmas or visiting neighborhood Christmas light displays.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb144

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #143 How Long Should My Morning Time Be? Oct 24, 2023

In this episode of Your Morning Basket Podcast, hosts Pam Barnhill, Laney Homan, and Dawn Garrett talk about how to make morning time work for your family. They discuss how long Morning Time should be and why treating it as a separate activity is essential. The hosts share their experiences and tips on incorporating different subjects into morning time, like history, science, and skill work. They also give practical advice on balancing content area work with skill work, especially if you have multiple children. They also discuss whether you should have separate morning time activities for different age groups and the importance of having designated times for everyone to come together. Join the hosts as they give helpful advice on setting goals for morning time and making it a fun and meaningful part of your daily routine.

Key Takeaways:

Morning time should be seen as a separate activity, treated with importance and joy.
Balancing content area work and skill work is a challenge, especially with multiple children. Skill work is often done outside of morning time.
It's acceptable and beneficial to have separate morning time activities for different age groups if it works for the parent and benefits the child.
Identifying priorities and deciding who needs to be present for certain activities is crucial in optimizing morning time.
Setting goals for morning time, considering the ages of your children and the season of life, is an essential part of making it a successful practice.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pamb arnhill.com/ymb143

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #142 Rethinking Homeschool Curriculum: Embracing Immersive Learning and Making Connections Oct 10, 2023

Tired of the daily grind of homeschooling? Join Pam Barnhill and her team as they share how Your Morning Basket Plus Explorations can breathe new life into your homeschool. In this episode, Pam is joined by team members Ali and Laney to discuss how using Explorations as the basis for elementary homeschool subjects can nurture relationships, reduce stress, and encourage a love of learning.

Hear real-life examples of how topics like baseball, ponds, artwork, and nature have captured children's imaginations across various ages. Discover how activities in music, poetry, picture study, and more can provide a rich learning experience tailored to each child's interests and abilities. If you're looking for an engaging way to teach multiple ages, subject areas, and learn alongside your children, take advantage of this insightful conversation. Let explorations help you rediscover the joy and meaning at the heart of homeschooling.

Key Takeaways:

Morning Basket Explorations can be the core of an elementary homeschool curriculum, covering subjects like science, history, art, and more.
Explorations nurture relationships between siblings as they learn together on topics tailored to their individual levels.
High-interest topics like baseball, ponds, fairy tales, trains, and more encourage kids to dive deep into subjects over a month.
Consistent activities in each plan, like music, poetry, and picture study, provide a well-rounded experience.
Focus is on learning and making connections rather than output of worksheets or compositions.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb142

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #141 Common Misconceptions About Morning Time Sep 26, 2023

Join Pam, Dawn Garrett, and Meg Angelino as they bust some myths about those "extras" in homeschooling. We're airing out all the misconceptions we have heard about Morning Time through the years and today, we're here to set the record straight. Combining subjects? Totally a game changer.

Tune in to get a sneak peek into our own Morning Time secrets and see why keeping it simple is key. And hey, don't stress - remember to find the joy and avoid that homeschool burnout. Whether you've got toddlers or teens, we'll chat about how Morning Time is a fit for everyone. Bring the family in on this one! 🌞📚🎉

Key Takeaways:

Incorporating additional subjects and activities in homeschooling lightens the day and makes it easier to teach core subjects.
Combining children in their studies is a good use of time and energy, allowing them to learn from each other.
Morning Time doesn't have to be elaborate; even one extra activity alongside reading aloud and memorizing a Bible verse can be effective.
Morning Time helps prevent homeschool moms from burning out and provides an opportunity to engage in activities they enjoy.
Morning Time is suitable for a wide age range of students and can be adapted to each child's maturity level, with older students even gaining high school credits through Morning Time activities.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb141

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #140 How to add wonder to your Morning Time Sep 12, 2023

In this episode of Your Morning Basket, host Pam Barnhill is joined by Betsy Cypress, the newest Your Morning Basket team member. Pam and Betsy introduce the Wonder World Podcast for kids. Pam records the show with her daughter Olivia each week, while Betsy is the researcher and writer behind each episode. Episodes explore fascinating topics, including historical events, science, and fun trivia.

The Wonder World podcast aims to spark curiosity and encourage listeners to learn about various subjects, covering everything from roller coasters and sports to culture and history. Pam and Betsy also share tips for engaging reluctant writers, discuss the benefits of Wonder World, and highlight the power of podcasts in facilitating fun and engaging learning experiences. Join them for a delightful and informative conversation about a new show that will inspire and entertain the entire family.

Key Takeaways:

The Wonder World podcast covers many topics, including fun holidays, history, science, poetry, jokes, and trivia.
The goal of the podcast is to provide education in a fun and exciting way for curious kids and their families.
Wonder World is mentioned as a "ready-made morning time" resource that can be listened to during lunch, extending the listening experience.
The podcast aims to provide enjoyable learning experiences beyond what can be found in textbooks.
Find the Wonder World Podcast here.
Find the Wonder Kids Club here.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb140

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #139 Your Homeschool is Not a Classroom Aug 29, 2023

In this episode, host Pam Barnhill explains why homeschooling parents should not try to recreate a classroom environment in their homes. Drawing from her experience as a homeschooling mom and former public school teacher, Pam discusses the limitations and unnecessary structures often associated with traditional classrooms. She explores the freedom and flexibility inherent in homeschooling and encourages listeners to develop their unique structures and approaches that align with their family's needs. Pam also introduces the concept of a morning basket or morning time as an alternative to traditional classroom structures, highlighting its benefits for bringing families together to learn and grow.

Key Takeaways

1. Homeschooling allows for freedom and flexibility that traditional classrooms often lack.

2. Traditional classroom structures do not necessarily serve homeschooling families well.

3. Developing unique structures and approaches that work for your family is key in homeschooling.

4. Morning baskets or morning time can be a valuable alternative to traditional classroom structures, promoting family togetherness and shared learning experiences.

5. Letting go of age-segregated structures and preconceived notions about certain books and materials can enhance the homeschooling experience.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb139

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #138 Gathering Together: A Mother's Morning Basket with Heather Tully Aug 15, 2023

Join Pam Barnhill and Heather Tully as they dive into a unique concept for homeschooling mothers - the Mother's Morning Basket. This September, join a virtual gathering of like-minded moms as you feed your mind and soul. This session is all about fairy tales!

Not only will this enrich you, but it will also provide inspiration and ideas for your own children's morning time. Heather brings her 20 years of homeschooling experience, demonstrating how to incorporate picture study, music appreciation, nature study, and more into your routine.

It's time to embrace the chance to learn, grow, and share together.

Key Takeaways:

A Mother's Morning Basket is personal time for mothers to nurture their intellectual and creative interests during the home-school year.
The Mother's Morning Basket involves activities such as Bible reading, personal poetry reading, novel reading, and self-education.
The program allows moms to engage and grow intellectually alongside their children. The aim is to foster an environment where learning and growth are seen as integral parts of life, not just schoolwork.
The Mother's Morning Basket is also a teaching tool for mothers. It provides them with techniques to structure their children's Morning Time more effectively.
Keep learning activities simple and realistic for consistency.
The Mother's Morning Basket sessions are expected to provide inspiration, camaraderie, and practical guidance for homeschooling moms.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb138

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #137 Creating a Rich Curriculum with Rachel Monreal Aug 01, 2023

In today's episode, we examine the world of morning time and its incredible potential for young learners. We'll be joined by Rachel Monreal, a homeschooling mom who has discovered the magic of morning time and how it has transformed her homeschooling journey with her preschool and elementary-aged kids.

We'll explore Rachel's journey through the challenges of homeschooling young children, finding balance amidst the pressures of traditional education, and rediscovering the joy of learning for both parent and child. Rachel will share her insights on including toddlers in morning time, adapting curriculum, and ultimately creating a structured plan that aligns with her family's core values.

Rachel shares her practical tips for implementing morning time, her favorite resources from our "Little Explorers Plan," and how she manages to prioritize consistency in her educational routine. Let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

Morning time can be a rich and enjoyable educational experience for preschoolers.
Morning time provides an opportunity to align education with core values, such as faith, family relationships, language learning, and skill development.
Consistency is key for a successful educational routine, and creating a structured plan can help achieve this.
The "morning basket" or "morning time" approach in homeschooling can bring joy, closer relationships, and less stress to the learning experience.
Morning time can be adapted to fit the needs and ages of children in a flexible and adaptable manner.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb137

To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

YMB #136 Finding Freedom in Your Homeschool Schedule May 16, 2023

In this episode of the Your Morning Basket podcast, host Pam Barnhill discusses the importance of creating a flexible homeschool schedule that aligns with your family's values and goals. Pam shares practical tips and tools for overcoming the challenges of feeling overwhelmed by all the subjects, avoiding falling behind and building margin into your homeschool schedule.

Pam encourages listeners to embrace rabbit trails and unexpected learning opportunities, as well as to build in margin to allow for emergencies or unexpected events. She also introduces the concept of a minimum viable day and loop scheduling to maintain structure and balance in your homeschool routine.

If you want to create a homeschool schedule that aligns with your family's values and goals, this episode is a must-listen. Check out this Your Morning Basket podcast for more practical tips and tools for your homeschool journey.

Find the shownotes for this episode at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb136

YMB #135 Measuring Success as a Homeschooler May 02, 2023

In this episode of the Your Morning Basket podcast, host Pam Barnhill discusses how to assess learning in your homeschool morning time. She explains the importance of setting goals, self-assessment, parent observation, and real-world application in evaluating your children's progress. Pam also shares practical tips on how to incorporate morning time activities into traditional assessment models, including issuing transcripts for high schoolers.

However, she emphasizes that non-traditional methods of assessment, such as building relationships and fostering a love for learning, are just as important in evaluating the success of your morning time routine. If you're looking for ways to measure your homeschooling progress beyond traditional tests and grades, be sure to tune in to this insightful episode!

Find the show notes for this episode at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb135

YMB #134 How Morning Time Changed My Homeschool: A Conversation with Barbara Cozens Apr 18, 2023

In this episode, we talk to Barbara, a homeschooling mom who shares her experience with implementing Morning Time into her homeschooling routine. Barbara talks about her journey to discovering Morning Time and how she initially struggled with finding resources to use. She shares how Morning Time has helped her create a connection with her children, and how it has become a grounding and warming up exercise for the day. Barbara also talks about how she uses Morning Time to bring in other aspects of learning, such as grammar and history.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb134

To download a sample of our free Month of Morning Time plans visit us here.

To join our free homeschool community of Morning Time moms, you can create an account right here.

For a done-for-you Morning Time experience complete with over sixty sets of Morning Basket plans, live events where we teach your kids, and support with your new Morning Time habit join Your Morning Basket Plus today!

YMB #133 How to Add Fun to Your Homeschool Day Apr 04, 2023

In this episode of the Your Morning Basket podcast, host Pam Barnhill interviews Mystie Winckler, creator of Simply Convivial and author of The Convivial Homeschool. They discuss the importance of creating a convivial atmosphere in the home while homeschooling and how it leads to greater enjoyment and success in learning.

Mystie emphasizes that the atmosphere of the home is the atmosphere of homeschooling and that it is essential for mothers to put a smile on their faces and enjoy homeschooling to create an enjoyable atmosphere. They also discuss practical tips for adding joy to your homeschool days.

YMB #132 Am I A Good Homeschool Mom? Mar 21, 2023

Yep, we're going there. Being a good homeschool mom is an important responsibility that involves creating a consistent, balanced, and flexible educational atmosphere according to the family's values and beliefs. It also entails having the courage and determination to do what is right, even in challenging situations.

Join Laney and me as we chat about what being a good homeschool mom even means, how YOU have to define it, and some tips that help you know when you are on the right track -- all delivered with a dose or realism and encouragement. We also discuss how Morning Time can help create family connections and provide structure so that homeschool moms can be more effective in their work.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb132

To download a sample of our free Month of Morning Time plans visit us here.

To join our free homeschool community of Morning Time moms, you can create an account right here.

For a done-for-you Morning Time experience complete with over sixty sets of Morning Basket plans, live events where we teach your kids, and support with your new Morning Time habit join Your Morning Basket Plus today!

YMB #131 Creating Consistency in Your Homeschool Mar 07, 2023

So many of your homeschool problems can be solved just by building the habit of consistency in your homeschool. In fact, I think being consistent is more important than choosing just the right curriculum when it comes to being successful at educating your kids.

Morning Time is one of those keys that can help you be more consistent in your homeschool and benefit. Listen on to find out more.

Key Takeaways:

Taking unplanned days off can interfere with consistency, but planned days off can be beneficial.
Consistency is key to homeschooling success as it can help build trust between parents and their children.
Morning Time is a great way to begin school days the same way each day and add consistency to homeschooling.
Consistency helps solve many homeschool issues and foster trust.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb131

To download a sample of our free Month of Morning Time plans visit us here.

To join our free homeschool community of Morning Time moms, you can create an account right here.

For a done-for-you Morning Time experience complete with over sixty sets of Morning Basket plans, live events where we teach your kids, and support with your new Morning Time habit join Your Morning Basket Plus today!

YMB #130 Feeling Stale? Refresh Your Morning Time Feb 21, 2023

Has your Morning Time started feeling a little stale and uninspiring? Hey, I have totally been there. In this podcast episode we have a number of ideas that you can use to breath new life into your Morning Time.

Have a listen and try one to spice up your Morning Time today.

Key Takeaways:

Morning time can be made more engaging with a bit of creativity.
Switching up the location of morning time or introducing an older podcast can help keep things fresh.
Introducing humor to morning time can make the experience more enjoyable.
Giving kids hands-on activities during morning time can provide a break in the routine.
Consider forming a community with other homeschoolers for ideas or going on a morning time retreat.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb130

To download a sample of our free Month of Morning Time plans visit us here.

To join our free homeschool community of Morning Time moms, you can create an account right here.

For a done-for-you Morning Time experience complete with over sixty sets of Morning Basket plans, live events where we teach your kids, and support with your new Morning Time habit join Your Morning Basket Plus today!

YMB #129 5 Tips for Starting Morning Time Feb 07, 2023

If you want to get started doing your own Morning Time your first instinct might be to head to Pinterest. Don’t! Instead, follow these five tips that Pam lays out to help you begin a Morning Time habit in your homeschool that both you and the kids will enjoy.

Head to pambarnhill.com/ymb129 for full shownotes.

YMB #128 Why Morning Time? Jan 24, 2023

Morning Time is not something that is required by any homeschool method or governing body. Why then do homeschoolers find the practice beneficial to include in a homeschool day?

In this episode, Pam talks about five different reasons why a Morning Time practice is a worthy addition to your homeschool. She outlines the benefits of why you would want to devote time to doing this year after year.

Key Takeaways:

Morning Time provides an efficient way to cover multiple subjects for multiple pupils.
It sets the tone for the rest of the day and allows students to transition from playtime to school time.
Morning Time is an excellent way for families to connect and create shared experiences.
It encourages curiosity and discovery in children and reduces stress.
It is an important part of a successful homeschool day.

For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/ymb128

To download a sample of our free Month of Morning Time plans visit us here.

To join our free homeschool community of Morning Time moms, you can create an account right here.

For a done-for-you Morning Time experience complete with over sixty sets of Morning Basket plans, live events where we teach your kids, and support with your new Morning Time habit join Your Morning Basket Plus today!

YMB #127 - Christmas Traditions: Conversation with Rooted in Rest Nov 22, 2022

We are getting close to the holiday season and that means homeschoolers everywhere are getting ready to lean into the Christmas season and enjoy doing Christmas activities -- sometimes in lieu of any other learning activities. On this episode of the podcast I am joined by Abby Stone, mom of five, to chat about how her family slows down to make time for Christmas Traditions each year -- often learning a tone of academics along the way.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb127.

YMB #126 Delighting in the Beauty of Words: A Conversation with Megan Andrews Nov 08, 2022

Snap, crackle, pop! or "my love is like a red, red rose" -- both are examples of fun word play that we can find in writing all around us. These words are what makes writing exciting. Today I am joined by special guest Megan Andrews who is a lover of words of all kind. We talk about how to introduce your kids to the beauty of words and encourage them to enjoy the language but also make the leap to using it in their own writing.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb126.

YMB #125 Mothering By the Book: A Conversation with Jennifer Pepito Oct 25, 2022

As moms we deal with so many struggles and fears. Are we doing enough? Will our kids turn out ok? These fears threaten to overwhelm us and we wonder what can we do about it. My guest Jen Pepito knows those same fears all too well and has found solace and help in an unlikely place -- the books she reads aloud to her kids. Jen proposes that there are lessons for moms in the books we are reading to our family and she helps connect us to those lessons and how we can use them to overcome our fears in her new book, Mothering by the Book. She joins me today to talk about this unique approach and how we can use it to help us and our children.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb125.

YMB #124 How Morning Time Works with Any Philosophy: A Conversation with Amy Milcic and Jessica Waldock Oct 11, 2022

It's true! It doesn't matter what "flavor" of homeschooler you are or what method you subscribe to -- Morning Time can totally work with every single kind of homeschool philosophy. I am joined today by Amy Milcic (eclectic, traditional) and Jessica Waldock (relaxed and interest based) as we chat about how we have made Morning Time work for us (I am representing the CM, classical side of things from a non-purist standpoint.) Have a listen and tell us what you think!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb124.

YMB #123 Geography in Morning Time: A Conversation with Heather Tully Sep 27, 2022

Don't groan! Geography can be a fun and fascinating topic to study in your Morning Time. In fact, when you get a kid who is into geography they can be so excited over something as simple as locating countries on a map. It is so much fun to see. Join me and Gather co-author Heather Tully as we dig in to all the ways we have done geography in our Morning Baskets through the years and dish on all of our favorite books and resources.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb123.

YMB #122 Top Priorities for Morning Time with Teens Sep 13, 2022

We've talked a few times on the podcast about how to do Morning Time with your teens, but this episode really hones in on the idea of what do you prioritize when it comes to Morning Time and the teenage years. How do you make it worth their time and energy, how does it change as they get older, and even how do you award credits for what you are doing.

YMB #121 The Importance of a Living Education for Special Needs: A Conversation with Cheryl Swope Aug 30, 2022

Moms of kids with special needs may wonder what their students are capable of doing. How much should you do and what does this child need. Cheryl Swope is on the podcast today to talk about how all kids need truth, goodness, and beauty in their education. We can provide that as well as meet the practical needs that children have.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb121.

Special Episode: We're having a retreat! Aug 23, 2022

We are heading to the beach this January for our first ever We Gather Together Morning Time Retreat. Join me, Gather author Heather Tully, Dawn Garrett and the YMB team as we do Morning Time together, relax on the beach, and share a ton of encouragement and ideas for your Morning Time. In this special episode of the podcast we discuss all the retreat details. Register and read more at https://pambarnhill.com/retreat.

YMB #120 Morning Time Plans: Delight for Your Day Aug 16, 2022

Today we are giving you a peek behind the scenes at what is included in our ready-made Morning Time plans at Your Morning Basket. I am joined by our member success manager and mom of eight Laney Homan as we dissect what's in the plans, who are they for, and how to get the most out of using them in your homeschool.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb120.

YMB #119 Something for Everyone: A Conversation with Colleen Rein Aug 02, 2022

I am joined today by Colleen Rein who is a member of our Your Morning Basket Plus membership and a mom who has been doing Morning Time for a number of years in her homeschool. What I love most about Colleen is all the practical insights she has into making homeschooling work for her family. Today she shares insights and tons of good ideas on how Morning Time can support a diverse group of learners.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb119.

YMB #118 Finding Good Picture Books with Sarah Mackenzie Jul 19, 2022

It is getting tougher and tougher to find good picture books that align with your values these days. How do you find ones that tell a quality story and have the kind of language and art that your family enjoys? How can you make your librarian your ally and know just which books to choose in the bookstore to add to your home library. I am joined today by Sarah Mackenzie from Read Aloud Revival to answer all of those questions and more. This was such a fun conversation. I hope you'll join us.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb118.

YMB #117 Homeschooling Preschool by Making a Full Life: A Conversation with Mystie Winckler Jul 05, 2022

Every year there are new moms dipping toes into the waters of homeschooling by starting with a preschooler. Every year these same moms ask their more veteran homeschool mom friends for advice and come away disappointed by the response they get.

In this episode Mystie Winckler and I have a message for these new moms that start with "We will not roll our eyes at you!" and continues with practical encouragement and a fond look back at what we did in our early days (good and bad).

We also have some words for the veteran homeschoolers -- how can we encourage these new moms while we help them begin to understand that education might be different (and better) than they every imagined. Join us!

For show notes visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb117

YMB #116 Summer Reading and Morning Time: A Match Made in Homeschool May 17, 2022

Summer is for fun and what is more fun than a summer reading program and Morning Time. In this episode Pam and member success manager Laney Homan talk about the Traveling Through the Pages FREE summer reading program that encourages your kids to stretch outside their comfort zones and read widely this summer. Laney gives a number of great ideas of how to use the program and the accompanying Morning Time plans. Don't miss this practical episode.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb116.

YMB #115 Celebrating Cultural Heritage Through Art, Music, and Poetry: A Conversation with Amber O'Neal Johnston May 03, 2022

Morning Time gives us a gift. It gives us a time in our day where we can enjoy the music, poetry, and art of a culture -- either our own or the culture of others. Today I am joined by Amber O'Neal Johnston who talks about why exploring both are important, and she has a ton of examples and ideas of how we can do that in our Morning Time.

For podcast show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb115.

YMB #114 How Perfectionism Can Sabotage Morning Time Apr 19, 2022

So often we set ourselves up to fail when we have unrealistic expectations and expect a perfect Morning Time. Sometimes we don't even realize that perfectionism is the problem we are fighting. In this episode Pam breaks down what perfectionism can look like in your Morning Time and gives some tips on how to beat it so you can your kids can enjoy Morning Time together for years to come.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb114.

YMB #113 Memory Work Fun Games How to Review: A Conversation with Abby Wahl Apr 05, 2022

Maybe you want to do memory work with your kids but you are worried that it will become a drill and kill time that nobody loves. I used to worry about that too but the reality was far from that. Today I am joined by Abby Wahl and we chat about different ways you can make memory work more enjoyable to do -- even if you don't consider yourself a "fun" mom.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb113.

YMB #112 Faith that Morning Time is Going to Bear Fruit: A Conversation With Heather Tully and Brittny Bailey Mar 22, 2022

You enjoy Morning Time but you sometimes wonder if it will really have the outcomes that you hope. When you have little ones, how do you keep pushing through the messy moments when the results of your efforts are so far away. I am joined by Heather Tully and Brittny Bailey today to talk about just that topic and together we offer the perspectives of a newer homeschool mom, one in the messy middle, and a mom who has graduated a few as we tackle the question: will Morning Time bear fruit?

Visit pambarnhill.com/ymb112 for show notes and episode downloads.

YMB #111 Teaching History without a Curriculum: A Conversation with Amy Sloan Mar 08, 2022

Sometimes history texts can be a little dry and uninspiring, but what can homeschoolers do to bring history to life? My guest Amy Sloan eschews the textbooks altogether and simply uses real living books to teach history to her kids. Worried about how to make it happen? Amy breaks down how to do it, where to find the books, and some of the benefits that can come from taking a more interesting approach to history.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb111.

YMB #110 Why MB is Perfect for Preschool: A Conversation with Jeanette Pascua Feb 22, 2022

Today I am joined by Jeanette Pascua, homeschool mom of four, who has always used a Morning Basket as preschool in her homeschool. Jeanette and I chat about how Morning Time is the perfect way to accomplish preschool goals of language development. We also chat about how Morning Time with preschoolers looks different when your preschool child is your oldest versus when he is your youngest child. Have a listen and tell us what you think.

YMB #109 What if My Kids Fight in Morning Time: A Conversation with Lynna Sutherland Feb 08, 2022

. It happens to all of us. We cozy up with our kids and a good book expecting a blissful Morning Time of family learning when all of a sudden, "He hit me!" erupts from the couch. How are we supposed to focus on truth, goodness, and beauty with bickering, punching, and yelling are going on in our living room? is it even worth the effort when all our kids want to do is duke it out in Morning Time? Let's get some strategies and talk about that very topic today with our guest Lynna Sutherland.

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb109.

YMB #108 Shifting Focus: A conversation with Laney Homan Jan 25, 2022

One of the things I love is hearing about how other families work Morning Time into their homeschool days. How did they get started? What is their journeys like? Today on the podcast veteran homeschool mom Laney Homan is here to share here Morning Time story. She started about seven years ago and she keeps adapting Morning Time to meet her needs. Enjoy!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb108.

YMB #107 Morning Time Beginnings and Memories Jan 11, 2022

If your Morning Time has ever fizzled or you have felt daunted by the idea of starting back in a new semester, this is the episode for you. Dawn Garrett and I chat about getting over the hump of the semester break, how to prepare for the February blues, plus we introduce our brand new Morning Time Journal and planner that we are so excited to share with you.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb107.

YB #106 What If You Are Stuck in A Morning Time Rut? Nov 30, 2021

Have you ever felt like you were just stuck in a rut with Morning Time? It seems like you are just doing all the same old things and you can't shake things up and make them seem new again. We are talking about exactly that topic on today's episode of the podcast. I hope there is a pointer or two in here for you!

Visit pambarnhill.com/ymb106 for show notes and episode downloads.

YMB #105 Teaching Christmas Manners: A Conversation with Brandy Vencel Nov 16, 2021

If you have ever been in a situation where you were mortified at something your kids did then, well, you are in good company. It happens to all of us at some time or another. That is why my guest today took matters into her own hands and decided that the holiday season was the perfect time to teach some vital manners to her children. She did it each day during the season in her Morning Time and she is sharing the how-to-do-it with us. Don't miss this episode!

For podcast show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/105.

YMB #104 Following Rabbit Trails with your Kids: A Conversation with Colleen Kessler Nov 02, 2021

I can't wait to share this fun podcast with you. Colleen Kessler joins me to talk all about how to capitalize on your kids' interests and add them to your Morning Time. How do you know which interests to follow? Which ones can you do as a family? And finally how do you stay on track and keep from losing your mind while still honoring their interests. We talk about all that and more in today's episode.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb104.

YMB #103 The Role of Classic Children's Literature: A Conversation with Cheri Blomquist Oct 19, 2021

When you have been homeschooling as long as I have it takes quite a bit to be surprised by a new resources. Before Austen Comes Aesop is a new book that was up to the task of turning my head.

This valuable guide for parents not only takes on the misguided idea that our kids need to read the most mature and difficult books at a young age, but also provides parents with the tools they need to create their own reading program using any books. Yes, there is a booklist, but it is not what you might expect. Instead of a subjective list of author favorites, what we have is a historical glimpse into the most influential children's literature of all times.

This resource (and this conversation) is not to be missed.

YMB #102 Leveling up Your Morning Time: A Conversation with Jessica Lawton Oct 05, 2021

How do you manage when you have a number of kids spanning a wide age range? You want your older kids to still be part of your Morning Time, but you aren't sure which activities are appropriate for them? How do you "level up" the activities you do so that little ones AND bigger ones still get something out of Morning Time?

This episode answers all of those questions. Whether you make your own plans, follow a set of ours, or use something else you find online, this podcast is the ultimate resources for how to have a fruitful Morning Time for kids from toddler to teen.

YMB #101 Bethany Stuard: Choral Music the Great Room Sep 21, 2021

Bethany Stuard has both an extensive knowledge of and great passion for choral music. That is what makes her such a fun guest for this episode of the podcast. In this episode Bethany likens choral music to a great room with doors that lead to all areas of knowledge. It is a fascinating glimpse at a tool we can use in our Morning Time to inspire our kids in ways we hadn't considered before. Enjoy!

For the show notes for this podcast visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb101

YMB #100 Favorites from the First 100 Sep 07, 2021

This is it! We are proud to present our 100th episode of Your Morning Basket. Who would have thought that we could do 100 episodes about Morning Time and not run out of ideas? (Hint: At times it was NOT me.) But we have and I am proud of all of them.

In this 100th episode I am joined by YMB community manager (and all-around podcast super-fan) Dawn Garrett for a jaunt down memory lane as we highlight our favorite episodes and guests from the first 99. Our hopes are these snippets bring back some memories of episodes you might want to revisit or encourage you to check out some you might have missed. Enjoy!

For show notes and links to the episodes visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb100

YMB #99 Grammar in Morning Time: A Conversation with Andrew Pudewa Aug 24, 2021

It is always a fun honor to chat with Andrew Pudewa and this conversation was no different. First, this guest comes prepared. In the podcast Andrew dives into three different modes of teaching grammar -- and what we think of as traditional grammar instruction is only a part of one of those modes.

We also chat about why grammar (and words and thinking) are so important -- especially in the times in which we live today. There is so much good information in this one, it is going to blow you away. Enjoy!

For podcast show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb99.

YMB #98 Finding the Fun in Art History: A Conversation with Lotus Stuart Aug 10, 2021

Lotus Stuart has always done art with her kids ever since they were little. When she started homeschooling them she began using a curriculum, but what she soon discovered was with using a curriculum they were doing less art and it was certainly less FUN. In that moment the idea for Art History Kids movement was born.

Join Lotus and me as we chat about how to approach art history in a fun, low-pressure way that your kids are going to love. We talk about why it is important to explore artists (and not just the old ones) and how open-ended art projects can inspire interest and creativity in your kids.

For shownotes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb98

YMB #97 Choosing the Best for your Morning Time: A Conversation with Cindy Rollins Jul 27, 2021

Today I am joined by my Morning Time mentor Cindy Rollins. We meant to talk about trying to whittle down all the good subjects to choose only the best for your Morning Time but I am not sure we quite succeeded. ;-) We might have created more of an argument on why you should make your Morning Time longer.

It's a great conversation and we do end up talking about what Cindy feels like we should prioritize in our Morning Times based on her years of experience doing Morning Time and mentoring moms. We can't wait to have you join the conversation.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb97.

YMB #96 Getting Started with Morning Time Jul 13, 2021

We are kicking off a new season of the Your Morning Basket podcast with a bit of a practical episode for you. Despite all of our years talking about and writing about Morning Baskets we still get the question -- how do I get started doing a Morning Time. That is what we are hoping to answer here.

I am joined by the Your Morning Basket Plus Community Manager (and Morning Time Pro) Dawn Garrett as we chat about how to get started if you have young kids who are just beginning school or if you are coming to homeschooling later with older kids. We break down the practical steps you need to take as well as how to troubleshoot any issues that come up. We can't wait for you to listen.

For podcast and episode downloads, go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb96.

YMB #95 What kind of homeschool mom are you? A Conversation with Jamie Martin May 25, 2021

I am joined on this episode of the podcast by homeschool mom and fellow introvert Jamie C. Martin. We are chatting all about how to do group learning in your home when mom just needs a little less noise and maybe a few more breaks. Though aimed at introverts, there are tons of tips here for extroverts too!

We also spill the details about our brand new Homeschooling with Purpose course that is releasing this summer. Don't miss it!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb95.

YMB #94 Math in Morning Time: A Conversation with Denise Gaskins May 11, 2021

I'm not going to lie, this episode of the podcast is a new favorite. Denis Gaskins, homeschool mom and math-lover, popped into my interview seat and blew me away with some awesome new math analogies, a hint that I might be teaching math wrong (gasp), and a ton of tips and ideas for making math meaningful and fun for my kids. This one is not to be missed!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb94.

YMB #93 Poet Teaching Poetry: A Conversation with Sally Thomas Apr 27, 2021

Join me today for a delightful conversation with a Charlotte Mason homeschooling mom who also is a poet. In this episode Sally Thomas and I discuss what drew her to writing poetry. how to experience poetry which your kids, and how you might encourage them to write their own.

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb93.

YMB #92 Growth Mindset for Kids: A Conversation with Ginny Kochis Apr 13, 2021

Growth mindset is a hot buzz word in the education world these days, but what do you do if it makes you feel a little, well, uncomfortable. All that self talk can sometimes seem like a little too much dependence on self and not enough dependence on God and His will. That is why I am chatting today with Ginny Kochis who approaches the idea of growth mindset from a Christian perspective. How can we balance our belief in ourselves and our abilities with our need for God's grace and help. That is what we seek to answer here. Enjoy!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb92.

YMB #91 Active Kids 2.0: A conversation with Larissa Maloney Mar 30, 2021

Want your kids to get moving and maybe you aren't so good at moving yourself? Larissa Maloney joins us on today's podcast to talk about why getting our kids moving is important to their learning. She also gives some fun tips on how to inspire them to get going. Enjoy!

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb91.

YMB #90 Travel: A Conversation with Dachelle McVey Mar 16, 2021

Planning a little trip? It turns out that Morning Basket is a great time to explore all the places where you might want to travel. I am joined on today's episode by Dachelle McVey, a mom who makes travel a big part of her homeschool. And the learning doesn't just happen ON the trip. Dachelle is full of ideas for how to make it happen before and after travel as well.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb90.

YMB #89 Building the Mini Habits of Reading: A Conversation with Abby Wahl Mar 02, 2021

Fellow Scholé Sister Abby Wahl joins me on today's episode of the podcast with some encouraging help for moms who want to build a reading habit this year. In the show we talk about how to develop our reading taste, what to do if you feel like you have no time to read, and Abby's secret sauce for building a successful reading habit from the very first day.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit pambarnhill.com/ymb89.

YMB #88 Morning Time with Many Ages: A Conversation with Heather Tully Feb 16, 2021

It is the question we get asked more than any other. How do I do Morning Time with kids that span a wide range of ages and if I have toddlers in the mix. Well today we have the answer. In this video workshop replay, mom of ten Heather Tully shares with us why and how she perseveres and does Morning TIme with her kids from ages 2 to 19.

Full of practical advice, realism, and grace this workshop will bless you as you prepare your own Morning Time.

To see the video version of this webinar and Heather's beautiful photography visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb88.

YMB #87 Tea and Culture: A Conversation with Jennifer Stowe Feb 02, 2021

On today's podcast I am joined by homeschool mom Jennifer Stowe who has turned a passion for all things tea into a business and educational experience for her entire family. Join us as we talk about the historical, cultural, and literary learning we can derive from tea, fun food ideas for tea time, and how to expand upon passions to enhance learning.

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb87.

YMB #86 Liberal Arts in the Age of Stem: A Conversation with Martin Cothran Jan 19, 2021

Everyone knows that we should focus our educational efforts on teaching kids skills they can actually use in real life, right? Except maybe that is not the best path to the most practical education after all. Yes, a classical education can build virtue, but it also creates the best employees for the modern world.

Need convincing? Then you are going to enjoy this interview with Martin Cothran of Memoria Press. You may learn something new about the term "liberal arts" and might just walk away convinced that STEM is not necessarily where we should focus. Enjoy!

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb86.

YMB #85 Goals, Words, and Redeeming Your Mornings Jan 05, 2021

A new year can be both daunting and exciting at the same time. It is a fresh start and a time for change, but that doesn't excuse the need to be realistic about what you can actually do amid the uncertainties of homeschool mom life (everyday is different, yes?)

So today community manager Dawn Garrett and I are here with some real talk and best tips for setting goals, getting mornings started well (note: I didn't say early.), choosing a word for the year and so much more. Enjoy!

For more information and the show notes for this episode visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb85

YMB #84 Advent Carols: A Conversation with Genie Shaw Nov 17, 2020

Continuing with our November theme of celebrating Advent this year, I am joined on today's show by the Your Morning Basket Plus music specialist Genie Shaw. We are talking all about Advent music, what makes it different from Christmas music and why you might want to add some of these pieces to your holiday playlist. We give you ideas for which pieces to start with and how to add celebrating these to your holiday season.

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb84.

YMB #83 Why Advent? A Conversation with Tsh Oxenreider Nov 03, 2020

Today on the show I am joined by author and mom Tsh Oxenreider to chat about her new book Shadow and Light: A Journey Into Advent. In this episode Tsh and I chat about what Advent is and how Tsh came to celebrate it. We also talk about what the season has to offer all Christians -- not just those who attend liturgical churches.

With tons of ideas for families and an enlightening conversation about why 2020 may be the best year ever to lean into Advent, I think this is a show you will enjoy.

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb83.

YMB #82 More than Just Pun and Games: A Conversation with Carl Azuz Oct 20, 2020

On today's podcast I am joined by the very punny host of CNN10, Carl Azuz. With balanced news coverage, wonderful explanations, and a winning host, the 10-minute news show has become a favorite part of our family's Morning Basket. It's the way we love to cover current events.

On this podcast Carl and I chat about how he got his start in journalism, how he ended up doing student news, and the process he uses to produce an objective journalism show for his audience. Enjoy!

For downloads and show notes visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb82

YMB #81 Morning Time with Gifted Kids: A Conversation with Colleen Kessler Oct 06, 2020

Today on the podcast I am joined by my good friend Colleen Kessler who is a homeschooling mom of four and a gifted education specialist.

Colleen and I chat about the benefits of a Morning Basket for your gifted kids as well as some of the challenges that moms of gifted and twice exceptional children might face when it comes to getting everyone on the same page for group learning. Colleen gives us practical tips for discussion, activities, and what to do for kids who struggle to hold still and focus.

Full of ideas and encouragement, this episode has something for everyone!

For show notes and episode downloads, go to pambarnhill.com/ymb81.

YMB #80 Beloved: A Conversation with Missy Andrews Sep 22, 2020

Today I am joined my Missy Andrews from the Center for Lit to talk about her book My Divine Comedy: A Mother’s Homeschooling Journey.

I can't explain how encouraged I was by today's episode. No spoilers, but there is one nugget that Missy lays down that is going to have lasting change on how I view myself as a homeschool mom and how I view the work I am doing with my children.

We also chat about the definition of education, homeschool disillusionment, and the dangers of tying our identities to the success of our homeschool. I think you will be encouraged.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb80.

YMB #79 A Themed-Based Morning Basket: A Conversation with Jessica Waldock Sep 08, 2020

The theme of this episode of the podcast is all about making Morning Time work for your family. I am joined by Jessica Waldock, host of the Morning Baskets and more Facebook community to talk about how using themes saved her Morning Basket. Jessica homeschools an only-child who likes to deep-dive into topics, so a themed Morning Basket is a perfect fit.

In the show we also talk about the difference between themed Morning Time and unit studies, where Jessica gets her theme ideas, and how Morning Baskets can work in a single-child homeschool.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb79

YMB #78 Civics and Current Events: A Conversation with Jill Hummer Aug 25, 2020

Professor and homeschool mom Jill Hummer joins me on this episode of the podcast to talk all about teaching civics and current events in your Morning Time. We chat about what Civics is, exactly, as well as the best ways to bring a living knowledge of citizenship to your kids.

We also discuss age-appropriate ways to include civics, what to do about current events, and how you can make citizenship a natural part of your homeschool and family.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb78

YMB #77 Awaking Wonder: A Conversation with Sally Clarkson Aug 11, 2020

On today's episode of the podcast I welcome Sally Clarkson, author and homeschool mom, to chat about her soon-to-be-released book Awaking Wonder.

Education does not have to be difficult or stifling. Find out how homeschool families can create delightful learning based on good books and beautiful experiences.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb77

YMB #76 Homeschooling Kindergarten: A Conversation with Rebecca Zipp Jul 28, 2020

Nothing strikes fear in the homeschool mom more than starting kindergarten with that first child. I remember wondering how I was ever really going to make this work. (Pssst -- it has!)

I am joined on the podcast today by Rebecca Zipp, a homeschooling mom who has put much thought into a gentle kindergarten.

We have a message for the new homeschooling moms out there. It is going to be ok.

Of course, we also spend quite a bit of time talking about how Morning Time fits into the homeschool kindergarten (hint: they are a match made in heaven), how much time you should spend doing kindergarten, and what are the goals of a kindergarten education. Listen, mama, and be encouraged!

For the show notes and episode downloads visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb76

YMB #75 Teaching History through Story: A Conversation with Rea Berg Jul 14, 2020

Rea Berg loves books and stories. She has become quite the collector of them through the years as she homeschooled her six children and then later went on to found Beautiful Feet Books.

On today's show Rea joins me to chat about how we can use literature to teach history from story. We will be chatting about some of the challenges homeschool families face in the teaching of history, why stories and living books make an effective approach to history study, and how to pivot from using textbooks to using living books instead -- even in middle and high school. Enjoy!

YMB #74 Celebrate Books: A Conversation with Mary Wilson May 26, 2020

I am joined today on the podcast by Mary Wilson, a homeschool mom and book lover who believes that fun should be an integral part of the homeschool day. In this episode Mary and I discuss the idea of celebrating books in big and small ways. We chat about some of Mary's past book celebrations, how she got started, and why she thinks this is a unique and important way to introduce your kids to literature.

We also chat about how you can make book celebrations doable and bring a little bit of this kind of practice into a weekly Morning Time setting. Don't miss this one!

For more information and a downloadable transcript and time stamps visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb74

YMB #73 Finding Truth in Every Subject: A Conversation with Brandy Vencel May 12, 2020

On today's episode of the podcast I am chatting with a good friend Brandy Vencel all about which subjects in our homeschools are appropriate for Morning Time. Are some activities and subjects holier than others? Are there any subjects that do not pertain to God? These are all fascinating questions. While we do not claim to have a definitive answer we welcome you to join us as we begin the discussion. Let us know what you think in the comments. For the downloads including transcript and time stamps or to leave a comment, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb73.

YMB #72 Help! My Kid Hates Morning Time Apr 28, 2020

What do you do when you have a kid (or two or more) who do not like Morning Time? As much as we want to think that our kids will be as enamored with the idea of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty as we are, sometimes that just isn't the case -- especially when we start building a Morning Time habit after our homeschools are already established. Today I am joined by Dawn Garrett, Community Manager here at Your Morning Basket, and we chat about solutions to this very problem. We talk about flexing schedules, honoring your kids' time, age-appropriate activities, and yes, when it is okay to require them to stay and have a decent attitude. All of that wrapped up in one (hopefully) helpful show. For podcast downloads and resources be sure to visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb72

YMB #71 Nature Study Hacking: A Conversation with Joy Cherrick Apr 14, 2020

Today on the podcast I am joined by Joy Cherrick, homeschooling mom of six and author of Nature Study Hacking. This series of lesson plans boils down nature journaling to a do-able list that moms everywhere can actually use.

On the show Joy and I chat about the value of studying nature, the four parts of nature study, and ideas for how to make nature journaling a habit that your kids want to do on their own. Enjoy!

More information, downloads, and show notes at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb71

YMB #70 The Magic of Folk Music: A Conversation with Professor Carol Mar 31, 2020

Dr. Carol Reynolds joins me on today's show to give a delightful lesson about folk music. In this episode Prof. Carol enthusiastically shares about the value of folk music for our kids, what exactly a folk song is anyway, and how to get started studying them in your Morning Time.

Full of wonderful stories and great resources, I think this is an episode you will really enjoy.

Don't forget to grab your episode downloads at pambarnhill.com/ymb70

YMB #69 Morning Time and the Bilingual Homeschool: A Conversation with Lauren Stengele Mar 17, 2020

I am joined on the podcast today by Lauren Stengele, a non-native Spanish speaker who is passionate about raising bilingual kids. Lauren is teaching her kids Spanish in order to reclaim her own Mexican heritage and she is using Morning Time to make this a reality in her homeschool. In this episode of the podcast Lauren and I chat about how she incorporates two languages intro her school day, what makes Morning Time such a great vehicle for second language learning and also about the two biggest indicators for success in raising bilingual kids. It was a fun episode. Don't forget to grab your episode downloads including your Basket Bonus Spanish memory work for your Morning Time at pambarnhill.com/ymb69.

YMB #68 Choosing Books for Your Morning Time: A Conversation with Jessica Lawton Mar 03, 2020

On today's episode of the podcast I am chatting with a good friend and author of the Morning Time plans at pambarnhill.com. Jessica Lawton is a bibliophile and owner of a library of over 3000 books. She is also great a choosing just the right books to use in Morning Time. On today's podcast Jessica and I chat about how to choose the best books about a topic, which books she thinks are worth owning versus merely borrowing, and how to use different kinds of books for different purposes.

YMB #67 Lenten Practices for Everyone Feb 18, 2020

Today's episode of the Your Morning Basket podcast has not one, but two great interviews. First up on the show is my good friend Fr. Doug Martin who is here to talk about the spiritual observation of Lent and how all Christians can practice this in their families.

As we were preparing that interview we were approached by author Asheritah Ciuciu, an evangelical author who has her own Lenten devotional recently published by Moody Publishers. We decided to have Ahseritah on the show as well to talk about her new book and the practice of Lent from her perspective.

A wonderful benefit is that both guests focus on how we can observe Lent within our families and use it to join our sufferings with Christ, slow down and grieve our sins, and experience the joy of the Resurrection more fully. I hope you enjoy this episode.

YMB #66 Art Appreciation for Your Ears: A Conversation with Alisha and Olivia Gratehouse Feb 03, 2020

Today on the podcast I am joined by Alisha Gratehouse and her daughter Olivia from Masterpiece Society. As fans of art, Alisha and Olivia have started a new art appreciation podcast that takes a fun and "cheeky" look at artists and their work. In fact, it is quickly becoming a favorite of the teens and tweens in my house.

In this episode of the show discover what is unique about the Masterpiece Maker's approach to studying the artists, why it is far from boring, and how you can use this free resource in your own homeschool Morning Time to study the great masters.

YMB #65 Remembrance and Grammar: A Conversation with Cindy Rollins Jan 21, 2020

Cindy Rollins, mom of nine and “Mama of Morning Time” (so-named by me!), is back on the podcast this week to chat about Stratford Caldecott’s Beauty in the Word — specifically the portion on grammar, or what Caldecott calls “remembering.” Join us as we chat about anamnesis, what it is and how it is alike and different what we already associate with memory. Listen for:

The idea of anchoring or tethering our children to a cultural heritage.
What are some Morning Time elements that help to convey this cultural heritage.
How Cindy handles the aspects of our heritage that are not positive or admirable.
The connection between language and memory and how language helps form relationships with ideas.
How technology is both a blessing and a curse when it comes to our efforts to be people who practice Remembering.

Read the show notes at pambarnhill.com/ymb65

YMB #64 Memory Work from a Mom’s Perspective: A Conversation with Amy Sloan Jan 07, 2020

Today on the podcast I am joined by Amy Sloan from humilityanddoxology.com and mom of five kids ages 4 to 14. For about the past five years Amy has made memory work a central part of her homeschool day.

In this episode Amy and I discuss how to be consistent with memory work, how you find great pieces to memorize, and practical ways you can make this happen in your home.

We also chat about the debate between memorizing facts versus spending your time memorizing other worthy passages, how to make it work for multiple ages, and even how to deal with attitudes if they arise.

YMB #63 Transitioning to Morning Time with Older Kids with Cindy West Dec 24, 2019

What happens to your morning time as your kids get older? Does it change or do we stop requiring them to attend? Can your teen outgrow Morning Time? These are the questions that Cindy West from Our Journey Westward joins me to answer today.

In this episode of the podcast we talk about how the tone of Morning Time changes as your kids get older, how to get their buy in with what you are doing, and what a Morning Time with older kids can look like. Enjoy!

Show notes at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb63

YMB #62 Personal and Communal Prayer: A Conversation with Christopher and Christine Perrin Dec 10, 2019

Today we welcome Christopher and Christine Perrin to the podcast to chat about prayer in your homeschool, Morning Time, and personal time. It is a fascinating conversation. Join us as we discuss:

How prayer can be both personal discipline and corporate practice.
What are the best ways to teach and model the practice of prayer?
Tips for modeling something when we are just learning it ourselves.
Different types of prayer and the value of each.
Tips for praying the Scriptures.
And recommendations of prayers and more to read for moms.

This was a helpful and fascinating conversation I think you will enjoy! Show notes at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb62

YMB #61 Morning Time with Teens: A Conversation with Heather Woodie Nov 26, 2019

Today we are joined on the podcast by Heather Woodie of Blog She Wrote, mom of four young adults. Heather has been practicing Morning Time in her family for a number of years, and has seen a shift in the practice as she has graduated two kids and is now left home with two more teens to go.

In this episode of the podcast we chat about:

how Heather's Morning Time changed has changed over the years.
why is Morning Time still a valuable practice in the teen years.
what kind of adjustments and challenges a teen-only Morning Time brings.
how Heather's role at Morning Time changed as the kids have gotten older.
and how Heather has been able to use topics from Morning Time as coursework and credits for the purposes of high school transcripts
plus so much more.

Sit back and enjoy as we dive into Morning Time with the teen set.

Download the Christmas Morning Time Plans.

YMB #60 The Truth About Myth: A Conversation With Angelina Stanford Dec 04, 2018

She's back! One of my favorite guests ever is back again on the Your Morning Basket podcast. Last fall when we had Angelina Stanford on the show to talk to us about why fairy tales are important reading for your kids, you let us know how much you loved the episode and Angelina's enthusiasm for the topic.

Today she is no less enthusiastic as we dive into what exactly myth is (surprised me), Justin Martyr and his "seeds of truth," why medieval Christians fought Viking invaders to preserve myths, and what we as modern Christians can learn from these stories.

It is a fabulous episode of the podcast. We hope you enjoy!

For more with Angelina on Why Fairy Tales Are Not Optional, head over to Episode #41 of Your Morning Basket

YMB #59 The Abolition of Man and Education: A Conversation with Dr. Jason Jewell Nov 20, 2018

The Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis is a series of essays on the state of education and truth in the 21st Century. A slim volume, yet dense with ideas, it is a worthy read for any parent dedicated to the education of their child in Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.

Today we have special guest Dr. Jason Jewell with us to help us unpack and understand Lewis's work and begin to learn how it applies to the education of our children.

YMB #58 Singing in Morning Time: Yes, you can! A Conversation with Heather Bunting Nov 06, 2018

Heather Bunting is passionate about helping families learn to sing -- even if mom doesn't think she can carry a tune at all. Through her free YouTube channel, Children of the Open Air, Heather helps make solfege lessons, hymns, and folks songs accessible for homeschool families everywhere.

In this episode of the podcast, Heather talks about the skill of learning to sing, how we can incorporate singing lessons into our Morning Time, and what to do about those who feel they lack the talent to succeed. I invite you to listen and be inspired to bring singing to your own Morning Time.

YMB #57 Morning Time on the Go Oct 23, 2018

If you ever need to take Morning Time on the road then this episode is for you. Dawn Garrett joins me to chat about why and how we can pack up our Morning Times and take them with us -- getting homeschooling done even when we can't be at home. If you are out of the house a day or more each week then this episode is for you.

YMB #56 A Morning Time Mentor: A Conversation with Heather Tully Oct 09, 2018

Have you ever wanted another mom to come along beside you and show you exactly what Morning Time looks like? Maybe, you think, I could just stop by her home and be a fly on the wall and unpack the mysteries of this Morning Time thing? Heather Tully has done just that with other moms in her community and she has been doing it for years.

On this episode of the podcast Heather joins me to talk about what this kind of mentoring can look like and how we might reach out and help other moms learn about Morning Time. And since she is a mom of ten doing Morning Time with the toddler to the teenager, Heather also shares a ton of wisdom in this episode about how to make Morning Time work with a large age range. This one is not to be missed!

YMB #55 Story and the Redeemed Imagination: A Conversation with Andrew Peterson Sep 25, 2018

Andrew Peterson knows a thing or two about a good story and creativity. He is on the show today to talk about sharing both with your kids, his work with the Rabbit Room as a place for children's authors to support one another and grow, and a little something he calls the redeemed imagination.

It's a fascinating conversation with topics as diverse as C.S. Lewis, Gerard Manley Hopkins, and Harry Potter. Enjoy!

YMB #54 Natural Foreign Language Learning: A Conversation with Adelaide Olguin Sep 11, 2018

Mom's are natural teachers for a language -- after all moms teach their kids language all the time. Foreign language can work the same way as a first language -- simply start with words and phrases you use everyday and build on one or two at a time. Soon you will know more words in a new language than you ever imagined. Adelaide Olguin is on the show today to tell us about how this natural language learning works and how you can begin to implement this in your home to learn new languages with your kids. It's a fun and encouraging episode, so don't miss it!

YMB #53 Character education for families: A Conversation with Heather McMillan Aug 28, 2018

Welcome to a brand new season of the Your Morning Basket Podcast. We are kicking off the year with an important but fun conversation with the creator of We Choose Virtues, Heather McMillian. I love Heather's enthusiasm for helping teach kids about virtues. Drawing on her years of experience as a teacher and children's pastor, Heather has created a system that opens a dialogue in families about good character and helps parents go beyond just securing good behavior and really reach the hearts of their kids.

YMB #52 Exploring Math Through Literature: A Conversation with Becky McIntosh May 08, 2018

Becky McIntosh can see the beauty and joy in math. She says it comes from practice -- that she makes a special point to look for the beauty of mathematics everyone. Lucky for us, she is on a mission to help other homeschool moms find the same joy in math as well. She is here today on the podcast with an inspiring look at how we can use literature to connect our kids to cool, interesting mathematical concepts. This one is a lot of fun.

YMB #51 Studying Geography Through Literature: A Conversation with Sarita Holzmann Apr 24, 2018

Sarita Holzmann was a reluctant homeschooler but soon came to love it. With a heart for missionaries serving overseas and the people they serve, Sarita has always had an eye towards bringing geography to life using literature. On this episode of the podcast she joins us to discuss why geography is important and why literature is the best way to experience that. Get your notebooks handy -- there is more than one great book recommendation in this episode.

YMB #50 Using the Liturgical Year as a Guide: A Conversation With Andrea Kirk Assaf Apr 10, 2018

Andrea Kirk Assaf homeschools on three continents as her family splits their time between Michigan and Rome as well as spending part of the year visiting her husband's family in Lebanon. Today she joins Pam on this episode of the podcast to talk about Calendar School, her Morning Time variation that includes elements of the Church year and the seasonal cycles.
Andrea has a unique take on Morning Time planning that is fascinating and inspiring. We hope you enjoy!

YMB #49 The Read Aloud Family: A Conversation with Sarah Mackenzie Mar 27, 2018

Sarah Mackenzie is on a mission -- a mission to help every family know that the importance of reading aloud goes beyond building bigger test scores and better vocabularies. The importance of reading aloud goes to the very heart of the relationships in your home.
Join Pam and Sarah on the podcast as they chat why this is even more relevant to our culture today than it was 20 years ago, practical tips on how to get it done (even with a bunch) of kids, and the books that Sarah and Pam can never agree to like. The gloves are coming off on this episode -- don't miss it.

YMB 48 Better Together: A New Book Mar 13, 2018

This week Dawn Garrett and I are on the show with a very special announcement! Better Together is a new book all about Morning Time and it is hitting the bookstores today.

Dawn and I dish about the book, other Morning Time resources, and how Morning Time is a great fit for every kind of homeschooler. Check it out!

YMB #47 Morning Time and the Only Child: A Conversation with Tina Roman Feb 27, 2018

It's a question we get asked often and it is a good one: How do I do Morning Time when I have just one child? How do I keep it from looking like the rest of my school day?

Today Tina Roman, mom of one, is here on the show to talk to us about what Morning Time looks like in her home. Hint: It's not as quiet as you might think it would be. Enjoy!

YMB #46 A Morning Time Variation: A Conversation with Mystie Winckler Feb 13, 2018

In addition to your more traditional Morning Time we are hearing from moms more and more about Morning Time variations that they are using to enhance their homeschools.

Today on the podcast Mystie Winckler is back talking about her Elementary Lessons. These are a separate, mini-co-op style session her family does with another family a couple of times each week. But it also looks suspiciously like Morning Time. Check it out.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb46.

YMB #45 The Importance of Story: A Conversation with S. D. Smith Jan 30, 2018

We are kicking off the new season of the Your Morning Basket podcast with a conversation about story. And there is no one better equipped to talk to us about a good story and the impact it can have on our kids than master-story teller S.D. Smith. Author of the enthralling Green Ember series of books, Sam is here today to chat with us about what makes a good story and how these tales shape our kids. Pulling from his own childhood and what stories have meant to him, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

YMB #44 Catechism and Memory: A Conversation with Geoffrey Reiter Dec 05, 2017

What is a catechism and why is it important to teach to our children? In this episode of the podcast Dr. Geoffrey Reiter joins me to talk about how catechism and memory shape us along with some practical tips for implementing catechism memorization into our Morning Time.

It's a fascinating conversation full of practical advice (including which catechisms to use) and things to ponder.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb44.

YMB #43 Subjects and Virtue in Morning Time: A Conversation with Cindy Rollins Nov 21, 2017

Listener favorite Cindy Rollins is back on the podcast in this special cross-over episode between Your Morning Basket and the Mason Jar Podcast. Drawing on Cindy's vast experience, we chat about which subjects are best for Morning Time plus a whole lot more.

Listen in and then search out The Mason Jar on your favorite podcast app to get the rest of the story.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb43.

YMB SP2: Ack! It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas Nov 16, 2017

The Advent and Christmas seasons are almost upon us and homeschool moms are looking for ways to change their pace and do something special for the holiday seasons. Today Pam and Dawn Garrett discuss options for celebrating while still learning until your holiday break. Tons of good ideas in this one!

Find links and resources at https://pambarnhill.com/ymbsp2.

YMB #42 Seeking Truth: A Conversation with Ashley Woleben Nov 07, 2017

What is lectio divina and how can we use this ancient monastic practice in leading our students to truth. Ashley Woleben is on the show today to answer that question and so much more.

YMB #41 Why Fairy Tales Are Not Optional: A Conversation With Angelina Stanford Oct 24, 2017

Angelina Stanford and I started our conversation with a show down.

"I'm going to have to limit you to an hour," I told her.

"You're going to have a hard time with that," was her reply.

Boy was she ever right! I just wanted this conversation about fairy tales to go on and on and on. Fairy tales are a staple of many a childhood -- I know I spent hours as a kid reading from Grimm and Hans Christian Anderson. Thanks to the influence of people like Andrew Pudewa I have been sharing original versions of fairy tales with my own kids for years.

But I have never dug this deep or looked at fairy tales in quite this way before -- Angelina and I dig deep into the history, the objections, the importance and so much more. I have a new favorite episode of the podcast. You might too! Enjoy.

For more with Angelina on The Truth About Myth head over to Episode #60 of Your Morning Basket

You can find the show notes for this episode at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb41

YMB #40 A Mother's Morning Basket: A Conversation with Jennifer Mackintosh Oct 10, 2017

All home education begins with self-education -- for mom. In our efforts to learn and grow as the teachers of our children one tool we can use is our own morning basket -- a Mother's Morning Basket.

In this episode Jen Mackintosh is back on the program to tell us all about her own Mother's Morning Basket. We discuss how she plans it, what's inside, and the keys to making it an enjoyable practice.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb40.

YMB #39 Building Relationships with Circle Time: A Conversation with Kendra Fletcher Sep 26, 2017

One of the earliest books I purchased on homeschooling -- way back when my oldest was only four-years-old -- was Kendra Fletcher's Circle Time: Plan the Best Part of Your Day. It was my first introduction to what I would later call Morning TIme. That inspiration is why I wanted to have Kendra on the show today to tell her Circle Time story. I think you will be inspired.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb39.

YMB #38 Morning Time with Middle Grades: A Conversation with Kim Devers Sep 12, 2017

We all know that Morning Time works great when you have younger kids in the house, but what does it look like for middle school? Is it even possible?

The answer is "Yes!" Middle schoolers can thrive in Morning Time and Kim Devers is here today to tell us about how it works with the middle grade kids in her family.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb38.

YMB #37 Loops, Blocks, and Other Schedule Options Morning Time Aug 29, 2017

Learning about loop scheduling five years ago was one of the best things that ever happened to my homeschool. Suddenly I was able to schedule my day in such a way that I never stressed about missing a day in the schedule. Other times, I have used block schedules with much success in my Morning Time to be able to enjoy more subjects in a year.

Both types of scheduling are handy and have benefits. Both types also inspire tons of questions from listeners. So today Dawn and I are happy to bring you a podcast all about blocks, loops, and other schedule options for your Morning Time. Enjoy!

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb37.

YMB #36 Invited to Imagine: A Conversation with Sheila Carroll May 16, 2017

We all know that we should read to our children, but there are also benefits to the practice of telling our children stories.

On this episode of the podcast Charlotte Mason educator and master storyteller Sheila Carroll is here to talk about the benefits of sharing stories, some techniques to use, and how to enchant your children with wonderful tales.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb36.

YMB #35 Special Needs and Morning Time: A Conversation with Meghan Dempster May 02, 2017

We love to say that Morning Time is for everyone from toddler to mom. No matter what your age, you can always take something from the subjects in Morning Time. This week Meghan Dempster is here to emphasize that message and add to it. Morning Time is beneficial to everyone no matter their abilities and needs as well.

Meghan and I chat about how Morning Time can help kids with special needs as well as how to meet some of the unique challenges that come with doing Morning Time with special needs kids. It's a lovely episode.

For shownotes and episode downloads, please visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb35.

YMB #34 A More Organic Morning Time: A Conversation with Hayley Beck Apr 18, 2017

Sometimes as much as we want to create an ideal Morning Time habit in our home, something stands in our way. That doesn't mean we have to give up.

Our guest today, Hayley Beck found that by putting aside the idea of an ideal Morning Time she was able to create something that works very well for her family. Hear all about how it works for them in this episode.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb34.

YMB #33 Hymns in Morning Time: A Conversation with Kari Bass Apr 04, 2017

Hymn study has long been a staple of many homeschool Morning Times. One of the greatest gifts you can give your non-readers is the ability to sing along during worship. This week we are chatting with Kari Bass of Hymns at Home about the benefits of studying hymns and some of the resources she has available to make it easier on homeschool families.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb33.

YMB #32 Socratic Discussion and Leading to Truth: A Conversation with Matt Bianco Mar 21, 2017

Over 2000 years ago Socrates used questioning techniques with his students to help lead them to truth. Today, homeschoolers are interested in using the same techniques for the same purpose -- but they wonder how exactly to do it.

This week on the podcast Matt Bianco, Classical homeschooling dad and director of the Lost Tools of Writing for the Circe Institute joins us to explain what Socratic questioning is, why we would want to use it, and how to implement it in our Morning Time.

YMB #31 Dawn of the Digital Morning Time: A Conversation with Lynna Southerland Mar 07, 2017

Sometimes I have a love/hate relationship with technology. Yes, I know there is bad in some, but also that the good in others parts far outweigh those bad things. I love the world that is opened to us because of the technology we have access to. That is why I loved finding Lynna Southerland. This mama has created a Morning Time that focuses on Truth, Goodness, and Beauty -- and it's almost completely digital. I think you're going to get some great ideas from this one!

That is why I loved finding Lynna Southerland. This mama has created a Morning Time that focuses on Truth, Goodness, and Beauty -- and it's almost completely digital. I think you're going to get some great ideas from this one!

YMB #30 Tension in Morning Time: A Conversation with Jennifer Dow Feb 21, 2017

You know you love Morning Time but there is something that pulls at you each time you sit down to do it -- especially if your time is short or your day hasn't gone exactly according to plan. We are often faced with the temptation to skip the true, good, and beautiful so we can get on with the "real" learning -- the math, handwriting, and science. But why?

Join Jennifer Dow and me as we talk about this tension that so many of us feel. In this conversation we discuss that and the meaning of real education.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb30.

YMB #29 Building Family Culture: A Conversation with Audrey Wilkerson Feb 07, 2017

Just over a year-and-a-half ago Audrey Wilkerson and her husband welcomed three little girls into their home through overseas adoption. Facing three children who didn't speak English and had never even been inside a classroom, Audrey used Morning Time to help build relationships in this burgeoning family and the academic and English skills these girls so desperately needed.

This is the story of how Morning Time built a family. Enjoy.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb29.

YMB #28 Morning Time with Boys: A Conversation with Kathy Weitz Jan 24, 2017

One of the struggles we hear about often here at the Your Morning Basket podcast is how do you do Morning Time with boys -- especially resistant boys.

To answer that question we brought in an expert. Kathy Weitz has five boys all of whom are in their teens or older. She knows what it is like to do Shakespeare, poetry, and literature with a passel of males and come out on the other side able to tell the tales.

We are fortunate that she is sharing those stories and tips with us today.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb28.

YMB Special Edition: Planning and Plans for Your Morning Time Jan 03, 2017

Morning Time planning. I bet there is a good chance you either love it or hate it. Or even if you love it, you might also be one of those people at a season in life -- newborn, toddlers, new to Morning Time, BUSY -- that still doesn't want to spend much time actually doing it. You know, though, it is important.

In this special episode Dawn, Jessica, and I chat about Morning Time planning -- why it is important, ways to make it happen, and how we can help you out with a special new product if it isn't something you want to do. Enjoy!
For links and resources, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymbsp1.

YMB #27 Mere Motherhood: A Conversation with Cindy Rollins Dec 13, 2016

We wrap this season of Your Morning Basket up with an interview with Cindy Rollins. Cindy has experienced the joy of Morning Time with all of her now grown children. In this interview, we talk a little bit about Morning Time, a little bit about Mere Motherhood, and a little bit about real family life.

Cindy is no stranger to the messiness of homeschooling, and she shares some of what she has learned in a way that is both humble and encouraging for other moms to hear. We delve into using your philosophy of education as a tool, the importance of appropriate education in the little years, and how a remembrance of the past is quite possible the most important thing for your Morning Time.

If you need an encouraging look into what it looks like to be towards the end of the long haul of homeschooling or a refocusing on what is truly important in your family life, grab a hot beverage, breath deep and listen. Cindy's warmth and frankness are sure to bless you.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb27/.

YMB #26 Integrating Subjects: A Conversation with Carol Reynolds Nov 29, 2016

It is a question English Moms and Math Moms both dread, "What about the arts?" How am I going to help my child appreciate and love beautiful art, music, and dance? Why should I even bother? Why is this so important when the crowd is clamoring STEM?

Prof. Carol Reynolds is here to answer your questions and more. She is passionate about art, music and how it defines a culture. We are reminded that our children are very expressive beings who naturally find joy in creativity and admire beautiful things. She encourages us with practical advice on how to help our children keep their natural tendency for creative arts, how to integrate the arts into our

She encourages us with practical advice on how to help our children keep their natural tendency for creative arts, how to integrate the arts into our everyday lives, into every subject we teach, and how to do this all without a strong arts background ourselves.

With a gentle reminder that the goal is not to produce an artistic prodigy, but someone who appreciates and can discern the beauty in the arts. She also assures us that this can be done without spending gobs of money on lessons or resources but simply by asking the question, "Why is this beautiful, or ugly." With humor and warmth, Prof. Carol makes the arts sound not only doable for the average homeschool mom but absolutely essential.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb26/.

YMB #25 Teaching with Ideas: A Conversation with Brandy Vencel Nov 15, 2016

Your loving your Morning Time with your kids. You have gathered a feast for their minds with living books, poetry, scripture, and Shakespeare, but something is missing. Where are all the deep meaningful conversations you had hoped to have with your children about the big ideas of life?

In this episode, Brandy Vencel joins us to talk about the marriage between facts and ideas, how to draw out big ideas from your living book read alouds using good questions. She encourages us to be patient as we introduce the ideas of virtue to our children.

She also talks about more practical issues such as how to introduce virtues without moralizing, how and why to choose the best literature when introducing big ideas, and which ideas might be more accessible for different ages.

Join us as Brandy helps us tackle the idea of ideas in our Morning Time.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb25/.

YMB #24 A New/Old Look at Memory Work: A Conversation with Kevin Vost Nov 01, 2016

In this episode of Your Morning Basket we talk with Dr. Kevin Vost about the virtue of studiousness and the value of memorization. In this fascinating conversation, we are introduced to memory methods taught by church fathers that can help us today.

In the fast paced, information overloaded world we live in today we sometimes loose sight of the value of holding information in our own heads. Dr. Vost encourages us to work our memories because it is our past memories that guide our future behaviors.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb23/.

YMB #23 Seeking Truth in Literature: A Conversation with Christin Ditchfield Oct 18, 2016

As a child Christin Ditchfield devoured the Chronicles of Narnia over and over again. As an adult she found that she kept returning to the truth's found in Lewis' work for guidance. As a result she created the Family Guide to Narnia, a book that highlights the Biblical parallels in the works, to help families see the connections between Narnia and Scripture.

Today she is on the podcast to chat with us about Narnia, what we can learn from stories, and easy ways for us to discuss the deeper meanings of literature in our Morning Time.

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb23/.

YMB #22 Picture Study for Morning Time: An Interview with Emily Kiser Oct 04, 2016

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is on my Homeschool Field Trip Bucket List. Yours too? I want to share the wonder and awe I felt as I looked at the larger than life paintings for the first time.

But how? I am no where near the Met. I know little to nothing about art, except that I do like to look at it. Is this enough? How do I start a picture study with my children? What are we looking for? How can I expect them to respond?

Emily Kiser to the rescue! In this episode of Your Morning Basket, Emily answers these questions and more. She gently tells us how we can add picture study to our basket in baby steps; exposure, enjoyment, and analysis.

For shownotes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb22/.

YMB #21 Why Shakespeare? A Conversation with Ken Ludwig Sep 20, 2016

Shakespeare. Whatever feelings you have about the Bard, we can all agree that he was the most influential English writer in history. But why should I bother with Shakespearean language for my littles in Morning Time?

Won't there be plenty of time for that when they are older? More importantly how would I introduce such a daunting mass of literature? What if I don't know much Shakespeare myself? What if I don't even think I like Shakespeare?

Ken Ludwig is a playwright and father who has an infectious love of Shakespeare. He began sharing his love with his children at a very young age. Recently he published How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare, a book detailing this surprisingly simple way to teach the Bard's great works to our children.

Come and enjoy as Ken tells us why and how we should teach Shakespeare, as well as how we can handle the harder concepts. Most importantly, Ken encourages us to push past our fear and enjoy Shakespeare in our Morning Times.

YMB #20 Song, Stories, and Memories Made Together Sep 06, 2016

Classical music is part of the true, good, and beautiful feast I want to spread before my children. Unfortunately, most days I am at a loss as to how to enjoy it myself. Is there more to classical music than a bunch of strings making, what sounds like to me, just noise?

How do I choose which pieces and composers to introduce? What if we don’t like a piece? Why should I even bother when my child enjoys other types of music?

In this episode of Your Morning Basket, Pam interviews Bonnie Simon, creator of Maestro Classics. Bonnie has found memories of her parents playing the violin and cello as she went to bed, and Saturday classical music concerts on the radio. She gently explains how you can give your child found memories of classical music through stories.

By using stories and listening to classical music together, we can help our children develop a relationship with classical music that will stay with them their whole lives. Come listen and learn how to make musical memories with your children.

YMB #19 Getting the Year Off to a Good Start Aug 23, 2016

We're starting off a new season of Your Morning Basket with an episode all about planning and preparing for Morning Time. Pam and her good friend Dawn Garrett, who is the coordinator for the Your Morning Basket online community, discuss everything from the first ingredient of a solid Morning Time plan to how to pull ourselves out of those Morning Time slumps. Whether you are brand new to Morning Time this year or a seasoned vet looking for a little inspiration, enjoy!

YMB #18 Making Math Enjoyable... Really! A Conversation with Kate Snow May 10, 2016

We know there must be more to math than just slogging through page after page of multiplication facts, but what? Last time I checked, wondering at geometrical patterns in God's creation was not in the scope and sequence of my math curriculum, but it's something I long for my kids to have opportunities to do.

When can I fit in a math read-aloud or few rounds of one of the logic games collecting dust on the shelf? What about hands-on exploration with big math ideas like probability, estimation, or measurement? How can I make time for this kind of math in my homeschool?

We are joined on this episode of the podcast by Kate Snow of Kate's Homeschool Math Help. Kate explains that, while skill work in math is certainly important, it really is okay sometimes to play with math without a lesson plan and Morning Time is the place to do just that.

By weaving math explorations, stories, and games into Morning Time, we can put our kids in touch with big ideas and expose them to the beauty found in mathematics.

YMB #17 No-Fuss Art for Morning Time: A Conversation with Tricia Hodges Apr 26, 2016

Tricia Hodges is a homeschooling mother of five and the co-creator of the art curriculum You Are an Artist. Tricia is all about a stress-free approach to sparking a love for art in our children, and she joins us on this episode of the podcast to talk about weaving some easy art projects into Morning Time.

Tricia's go-to medium for simple, forgiving projects is chalk pastel, and she offers a multitude of free chalk pastel tutorials at her blog Hodgepodge. She gives us step-by-step instructions for set-up, clean-up, and everything in between, including some tips for encouraging the reluctant artist (even if that artist happens to be mom). So grab your art smock and get ready to enjoy a great interview!

For show notes and episode downloads, visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb17/

YMB #16 Enjoying Shakespeare Together: A Conversation with Mystie Winckler Apr 12, 2016

"To be or not to be." "The course of true love never did run smooth." "All the world's a stage." The language, characters, and stories of William Shakespeare have far-reaching influence for us today in our books, our pop culture, and even our everyday conversations. But despite all this Shakespeare all around us, many of us are still left scratching our heads and wondering how in the world to begin studying the Bard with our students.

We are joined today on the podcast by homeschool grad, homeschool mom, and avid Shakespeare lover, Mystie Winkler of Simply Convivial. Mystie describes how, in just a few minutes a couple of times a week, we can share Shakespeare with our children and create in them not only a familiarity with his work, but also a taste for the beauty of his poetry. When we focus on experiencing, enjoying, and embodying Shakespeare by memorizing passages, watching plays, and maybe even acting out a few scenes ourselves, we can foster a lifelong affection for this beloved figure in English literature.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb16.

YMB #15 Morning Time With Littles: A Conversation with Celeste Cruz Mar 29, 2016

Celeste Cruz is a homeschooling mother of eight who started to implement Morning Time in her home with a stack of picture books at the breakfast table back when her oldest two children were just 5 years old.

Now with several years of Morning Time under her belt, Celeste is practiced in art of juggling fussy babies, noisy toddlers, and preschoolers with fluctuating attention spans. She joins us on this episode of the podcast to discuss what Morning Time looks like when all the children in the family are preschool age and younger.

Celeste shares some great tips for how to create a Morning Time routine packed with thoughtful, high-quality elements while remaining flexible and accommodating of the littlest learners. She encourages us to find natural lulls in our daily routine during which we can nourish both our children and ourselves with beautiful poems, stories, and music.

Celeste's wisdom is inspiring but at the same time highly practical, making this an interview not to be missed. Enjoy!

YMB #13 Plutarch 101: A Conversation with Anne White Mar 01, 2016

Anne White is a mother of three, a long-time member of the Ambleside Online Advisory Board, and the author of numerous resources on the Greek-born Roman historian Plutarch. She joins us on this episode of the podcast to help us figure out how we might approach reading Plutarch with our kids during Morning Time.

Who was Plutarch? What did he write about? Why did Charlotte Mason consider him worthy of inclusion in her course of study? What can modern-day students hope to glean from learning about people and events from so long ago?

Anne answers these questions and so many more. She explains that the purpose of reading Plutarch is not to get bogged down in names and dates from ancient history, but rather to share stories with our children and, in doing so, to help them grow in virtue and character. Anne shares how she herself did not understand Plutarch on her first reading, but began to enjoy him after additional reading and study. In sharing her story, Anne reminded me that I can be a fellow learner alongside my children as we approach subjects like these during Morning Time. Listen along as Anne brings Plutarch to life!

YMB #12 Teaching From Rest with Morning Time: A Conversation with Sarah Mackenzie Feb 16, 2016

Sarah Mackenzie is a mother of six, the author of Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler's Guide to Unshakable Peace, and the host of the Read-Aloud Revival. She joins us on the podcast to discuss Morning Time as a key tool that can help us order our children's affections, turn our attention to things of utmost importance, and ground ourselves in state of rest, avoiding that place of frenzy and worry that we are not doing "enough."

But Sarah doesn't stop there. She also throws in some of her best practical tips, like ideas for how to wrangle a houseful of toddlers and simplify Morning Time as needed during key seasons of family life. There is something for everyone in this interview, so sit back and enjoy!

YMB #11 All About Nature Study: A Conversation with Cindy West Feb 02, 2016

Cindy West is a homeschooling mother of three and the author of the NaturExplorer series. She joins us on this episode of the podcast to share her contagious enthusiasm for nature study.

She discusses the importance of this sometimes-neglected subject--how nature study helps us develop keen observation skills, teaches us important truths about our Creator, and gives us opportunities to make connections to subjects like science, geography, and math.

Cindy has an impressive list of simple, meaningful ways to spend just a few minutes of Morning Time on nature study. So, whether you are a seasoned nature enthusiast or someone who prefers to enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of your air-conditioned living room, you will be sure to find some great ideas in this episode.

YMB #10 All About Narration: A Conversation with Sonya Shafer Jan 19, 2016

In this interview, Sonya Shafer of Simply Charlotte Mason demystifies the practice of narration, or reading living books and then having children "tell back" in their own words what they remember.

She shows how narration is not so much a method of quizzing our children, but rather a powerful tool for promoting attention, comprehension, and retention as the children make the books their own.

This conversation is full of step-by-step instructions for how to get started, ideas for moving beyond the basics with older kids, and plenty of trouble-shooting advice.

For shownotes and episode downloads, please visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb10.

YMB #9 Morning Time Q&A With Mystie Winckler Dec 08, 2015

Pam and her good friend Mystie Winckler of Simply Convivial wrap up this season of the podcast with an entire episode devoted to answering listener questions.

They share inspiration, practical tips, how-to’s, and amusing anecdotes from their combined 12 years of practicing the discipline of Morning Time in their homes. Whether you’re a seasoned Morning Time veteran or a newbie wondering how to get started, there is something in this episode for you. Enjoy!

For show notes and downloads please visit https://pambarnhill.com/ymb9.

YMB #8 Start With Wonder: A Conversation with Nicholas Ireland Nov 24, 2015

Nicholas Ireland, a father of three, teaches humanities to middle schoolers at a classical school in Alabama. On this episode of the podcast, he tackles the subject of poetry.

Why is poetry important? What poems should I start with? What makes good poetry good? What if I don’t understand poetry? What questions should I ask my kids when we talk about the poems we read?

Nicholas answers all these questions and more, plus gives us enough recommendations to keep us busy reading excellent poems for a long, long time. Enjoy!

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb8.

YMB #7 Music Appreciation Simplified: A Conversation with Mary Prather Nov 10, 2015

Mary Prather is a music educator turned homeschool mom and the creator of the music appreciation curriculum SQUILT. On this episode of the podcast, she shares simple and effective ideas for adding beauty to Morning Time through music.

Mary has fantastic recommendations for composers and pieces, and she speaks from experience about no-fuss, practical ways to teach music appreciation and enjoy great music with our children. Treat yourself to a little dose of beauty today.

To access the podcast downloads for this episode including transcripts, time stamps, discussion questions, and more go to https://pambarnhill.com/ymb7.

YMB #6 Jennifer Mackintosh: A Considered Booklist Oct 27, 2015

Jennifer Mackintosh has been practicing Morning Time in her home since her oldest, now a homeschool graduate was a 4th grader. At her blog Wildflowers & Marbles, she has written extensively about how she creates her Morning Time plan and about how she develops thoughtful book lists for read-alouds.

She joins us on this episode of the podcast to tell us a little more about choosing those great books, but she doesn't stop there. She also divulges some of her best time-tested tricks for wrangling energetic toddlers while reading aloud, as well as some helpful advice for continuing to draw teens into the Morning Time conversation.

Jen shares about how Morning Time has been a place for her children to develop and practice important habits like attentiveness and describes the fruit she has seen as those habits have been shared and passed down from older children to younger children in a natural, organic way.

Perhaps most importantly, Jen urges us moms to be attentive ourselves during Morning Time and to learn alongside our children as we wonder at the natural world, at beautiful poetry, and at living books together.

For links and downloads visit pambarnhill.com/ymb6

YMB #5 Big Family Morning Time: A Conversation with Angela Boord Oct 13, 2015

Angela Boord has eight (soon to be nine!) children, so she knows all about making life work in a large family. She joins us today on the podcast to talk about creating and sustaining a Morning Time routine that is meaningful and worthwhile for everyone, from teens to toddlers.

Angela shares some great advice for keeping little hands busy, accommodating teens and their packed schedules, and tackling important subjects in a way that meets the needs of big kids and little kids alike.

She also shares how Morning Time has helped build a shared culture and sense of belonging in her family. Angela's wisdom is both practical and inspiring, making this an interview not to be missed.

YMB #4 Choosing What is Best: A Conversation with Dr. Christopher Perrin Sep 29, 2015

If you've been following along with the last couple of interviews here at Your Morning Basket, you know that Pam has been walking us through the "3Rs" that make up a rich Morning Time: recitation, reading aloud, and ritual.

Now it's time to tackle the third R, ritual. So often I find myself wanting to slow down and give my children time in our day to think, explore, and reflect. I want our Morning Time to be about more than checking off items from our list of things to do, but I'm not sure how to develop a meaningful liturgy that will help us begin our day. And then I find myself wondering if any ritual can really be restful and refreshing when energetic, chatty young children are involved.

Today's episode addresses these issues and so much more. Pam talks with Dr. Christopher Perrin of Classical Academic Press, who introduces us to the concept of scholé, or restful learning. Dr. Perrin encourages us to develop liturgical practices for Morning Time that can set the stage for scholé in our homes, and he provides us with examples of restful learning that can work in real life, even with wiggly, noisy kids like mine. There is so much to take in from this interview; I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
For downloads and links visit the show notes at https://pambarnhill.com/ymb4

YMB #3 Reading In Morning Time: An Interview with Brandy Vencel Sep 15, 2015

Welcome to another episode of Your Morning Basket. You may remember that, early in episode 2, Pam introduced us to the "4 Rs" that make up a rich Morning Time: recitation, reading aloud, ritual, and relationship. (And if you happened to miss that one, be sure to check it out!)

In today's interview, Pam talks with Brandy Vencel of Afterthoughts about the second of those Rs, reading aloud. They discuss the subtle ways that reading aloud during Morning Time can differ from the reading we may do with our children at other times during the day.

This interview is packed with great book recommendations and insightful conversation about how reading aloud can help shape our children's imaginations, give them opportunities to grapple with big ideas, and enrich their learning by pairing content with captivating stories. So sit back and enjoy!

YMB #2 Furnishing The Mind Sep 01, 2015

Andrew Pudewa is the director for the Institute for Excellence in Writing and proponent of memorization in education. In this episode of Your Morning Basket we talk about the effects of memorization on the brain, what to memorize, how to memorize, and how memorization furnishes the mind.

For show notes and downloads visit: https://pambarnhill.com/ymb2

YMB #1 What is Morning Time? Aug 12, 2015

Welcome to the very first episode of Your Morning Basket: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty for Your Homeschool Day!

Have you heard about the practice of Homeschool Morning Time but just had a problem wrapping your brain around what the practice is? Do you DO Morning Time but wonder where the idea got started? Or are you a person like I am who could just listen to Cindy Rollins share her wisdom all day long?

If you are any of those people then you are going to love the first episode of Your Morning Basket. Cindy and I chat about how she started the practice of Morning Time in her home twenty-seven years ago, what the practice looked like on a day-to-day basis, and how it bore fruit in her children. I hope you enjoy!

For resources, links, and the Basket Bonus for this episode visit edsnapshots.com/ymb1

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