Play Skillfully

Latest Episodes:

Homeschooling Down South - A conversation with Podcast Hosts, Kayla and Kat Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers hosts Kayla and Kat, two homeschooling moms who share their unique journeys into the world of homeschooling. They discuss the challenges and joys of homeschooling, the importance of community, and how they turned their experiences into a podcast aimed at supporting other homeschooling families. The episode highlights their personal stories, the resources they've discovered, and their future plans for community engagement and support for homeschooling families in the South.

Check out the Homeschooling Down South website and follow them online.

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Kathy Eggers store by using the code, PSPODCAST.

The Joy of Language Immersion in Family Travel: A conversation with Adelaide Olguin Oct 22, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers and Talk Box founder Adelaide Olguin discuss the joys and challenges of family travel, particularly focusing on language immersion and cultural experiences. They share personal anecdotes about their travels, practical tips for traveling with children, and the importance of exposing kids to different cultures. The discussion also covers language learning strategies, safety while traveling, and the significance of planning family trips. Adelaide emphasizes the value of learning languages through real-life experiences and encourages families to embrace the adventure of travel.

Get a free sample of Talk Box Today!

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Navigating the Toddler Years - Season SIX is here! Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek delve into the world of toddlers, discussing the importance of understanding their developmental stages, the need for guidance for parents, and the significance of connection over discipline. They explore creative and sensory play ideas to engage toddlers, the importance of empowering their independence, and the value of maintaining a lighthearted approach to parenting. The episode emphasizes that parenting toddlers can be challenging but also rewarding, and encourages parents to embrace the chaos and enjoy the journey.

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

The Long Game of Play: A Mom's Story After 10 Years with A Year of Playing Skillfully Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek discuss the curriculum 'A Year of Playing Skillfully,' exploring its impact on homeschooling and child development. They emphasize the importance of play in learning, share personal experiences, and provide insights into how the curriculum can be adapted to fit various parenting styles. The discussion also touches on social-emotional learning and the challenges of homeschooling, ultimately highlighting the joy and magic of watching children learn through play.

You can check out a sample of the 2nd edition of A Year of Playing Skillfully or purchase your own copy on my website.

You can find Keri on Instagram and her book, Kisses From Space on my Amazon Store.

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Schooling Multiple Ages with the Attitude of PLAY Nov 13, 2024

Show notes

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of finding a family rhythm that works for each unique household, especially when it comes to homeschooling children of various ages. She emphasizes the significance of engaging children in sensory and physical activities in the morning to prepare them for learning. Kathy advocates for a play-based approach to education, encouraging parents to maintain a lighthearted atmosphere while fostering curiosity and critical thinking skills. She also provides insights on integrating subjects like history and science in a concrete manner, managing multi-age learning, and building a foundation of curiosity through exploration and hands-on experiences.

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Sneak Peak - Gray Roots Podcast - Getting to Know Kathy Eggers Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

Ya'll, this new podcast is going to be AMAZING. Gray Roots officially launches 10/01, but you all get a sneak peak and get to know Kathy a little better at the same time.
In this conversation, Kathy Eggers shares her journey to becoming a mother and her experiences as a parent and grandparent. She discusses her initial impressions of her friends and how they met, as well as her unique path to motherhood through adoption. Kathy also opens up about the tragic loss of one of her children and how it has shaped her perspective on life and parenting. She emphasizes the importance of loving fiercely, forgiving quickly, and cherishing every moment with loved ones. Kathy's passion for children and early childhood development is evident as she shares her career in child development and her love for connecting with children. She also discusses her role as a speaker and trainer, sharing her knowledge and expertise with parents and educators. Kathy Eggers shares her passion for children and the importance of giving them a childhood full of wonder and discovery. She discusses her love for tennis and her goal of attending all the tennis slams. Kathy also reflects on her favorite season of life, which is the present, and the joy of watching her children grow and become the people they were meant to be. She talks about the transition of sending her youngest child off to college and the surreal experience of adjusting to an empty nest. Kathy explains the motivation behind starting the Gray Roots podcast and the desire to make a difference in relationships between mothers and daughters-in-law. The conversation ends with memories of laughter and the importance of being real and finding genuine connections in life.
Follow us on Instagram at GrayRootsPodcast! Can't wait to go on this multigenerational journey with you all!!

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Back to School with Preschoolers Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

Hey all, I am getting ready to launch our new season of the Play Skillfully podcast so I thought I would re-release this timely one from last year, Enjoy!!!
In this episode, Kathy talks about the approaching school year and offers tips and suggestions for making the transition a smooth one for preschoolers.

1. Start by setting goals for you and your family. Kathy’s favorite way of doing this is to gather magazines, pencils, paper and glue and invite children to make goal posters and include topics they would like to learn about.

2. Keep it FLEXIBLE: Consider your season of life when planning. Moves, new babies, and health issues have all caused Kathy to adjust her school goals over the years. Flexibility and the willingness to pivot will help parents and children keep their sanity during times of transition. After considering your season of life, adjust goals and create a routine. Remember, routines often work better than schedules, especially for preschoolers (and free spirit mommas).

3. Keep it CONCRETE: Young children learn through their senses. They need to touch it, smell it, taste it, hear it, and see it for their brain to connect with it. Encourage curiosity and be willing to follow that curiosity to completion.

4. Keep it SIMPLE: Preschoolers do not need hours with worksheets. In fact, research shows that preschoolers don’t need worksheets at all. Helping children fall in love with words, books and stories will inspire children to fall in love with reading. Math can be done as you go… cooking, cleaning, sorting and exploring are all ways to teach basic math concepts. Sensory and Science are a must for building a strong foundation in the brain for abstract learning. Give children plenty of time for discovery, experience, and wonder if you want to develop lifelong learners.

Have fun and have a delightful year of wonder!!!

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Motherhood Ramblings with Kathy, Keri Vasek, and Rachel Ryder Aug 20, 2021

Show notes

Recently, Kathy had the privilege of spending the weekend with Rachel and Keri. During the visit they decided that their topics of conversation would make a great podcast, so they grabbed a computer and pushed record.

In this episode, Kathy discusses many “hot” topics of today. They talk about reading, parenting, self-care, podcasts, and the balance of it all. You will want to listen to this podcast as soon as possible.

Podcasts currently in their library:

• Popcast

• Crime Junkie

• Up and Vanished

• The Bible Binge

• Brains On Podcast (for kids)

• Where Do We Go from Here

• The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill

• Make it Simple – Kathy was recently a guest on this podcast.

• The Moth

• The Bible Project

Books recently/currently on their table or on their phones:

The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

The Water Keeper by Charles Martin

Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin

When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin

Lady Sherlock Holmes Series by Sherry Thomas

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner

Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly

You can find out what Rachel and Keri are reading by following them on Goodreads.

These ladies are keeping it real and hope you do too! Don’t hesitate to reach out to Kathy if you have any questions about the things discussed in this episode.

kathy@thehomegrownpreschooler.com

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

Mother’s Day Thoughts with Kathy May 09, 2021

Show notes

I have had the privilege of being a mother for almost 26 years. During my time as a mother, I have adopted six children, had two failed adoptions, birthed two children, gained two children through marriage, and said goodbye to one of my children (as we lost him to Leukemia on May 16, 2020). Parenting has had many highs and lows over the years and I definitely have mad some mistakes.

As I thought about what I wanted to share with you, I came up with five things I felt were most important on this parenting journey.

What happened in your childhood will impact what happens in your child’s childhood.
Lightheartedness over lectures.
Everyday moments are greater than grand gestures.
Feelings Matter – Honor their feelings.
They are watching.

I definitely don’t have all of the answers when it comes to parenting, but I do love my babies more than anything and now that I have sent one to Heaven, I believe now more than ever these five things matter.

I hope you have a fabulous Mother’s Day and feel the love from your family!

Lesli and I are here if you need us. You can contact us at kathy@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or lesli@thehomegrownpreschooler.com

Have a great week! Lesli will be back next week with Part 3 of her conference talk.

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

AYOPS From the Eyes of a Mother of Four, Keri Vasek Oct 30, 2020

Show notes

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

For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum guide A Year of Playing Skillfully.

You can also sign up for Kathy's monthly newsletter on her website or by commenting NEWS on any IG post.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for us to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let us know at hello@kathyeggers.com or shoot us a message on Instagram.

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