School to Homeschool

Thinking about homeschooling, but are scared to death…especially with the teenagers? I was as well, but you don’t have to do this alone! This is for parents ready to reclaim your children’s education, build deeper connections, and step into homeschooling with clarity, confidence, and joy.

I share practical strategies, resources, and encouragement to help you confidently transition from public school, support your kids academically and socially, and create a thriving, joyful learning environment for your family. You Got This!

Latest Episodes:

69. Homeschooling Teens Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

Unlike long-time homeschoolers, those of us who pull our teens, have teens who never want to go back into the system. That has been my experience. Today we discuss what our teens need from us...and yes, they still need us. They need us more than ever! Sit back, grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and let's discuss our beautiful teenagers. By the way, this is purely anecdotal and you are on tender ground as I share my hard.

Save the Date: November 1, 2024; 11am Pacific; 12pm Mountain; 1pm Central; 2pm Eastern for a free workshop "Making a Magical Christmas: Practical and Simple Tips to Make the Christmas Season Beautiful." Sign Up Coming Soon!

Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute

The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict by The Arbinger Institute

A Snarky Homeschooler Etsy Shop

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68. Interview with Matt Beaudreau--Founder of ApogeeStrong Oct 07, 2024

Show notes

Can traditional education truly cater to the unique potential of every student, or is it merely a system of behavioral management? Join us for a compelling conversation with Matt Beaudreau, an innovative educator and founder of Apogee Strong Schools, as he shares his journey from questioning the conventional school system to creating transformative learning environments. Matt opens up about his experiences as a teacher and administrator, and the critical moment that led him to homeschool his children for a more personalized educational experience.

Throughout our discussion, we explore the challenges and philosophies behind building educational centers that break away from traditional norms. Matt delves into the importance of fostering critical thinking, embracing Socratic discussions, and tackling real-world projects to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. We also touch on the significant emotional and social barriers that families face when considering alternative education methods, and how Apogee Strong campuses aim to create well-rounded individuals by prioritizing individualized academic goals and physical health.

In our final segment, we focus on the essential role of parents in raising strong, responsible children. Matt shares valuable insights and personal stories that highlight the significance of imperfect parenting and the pursuit of excellence. Emphasizing the unmatched care parents provide, we discuss strategies to enhance your own knowledge and create a nurturing environment that fosters your child's growth. This episode is a heartfelt reassurance to all parents and grandparents, reaffirming that you are doing better than you might think. Don't miss this inspiring and thought-provoking discussion with Matt Beaudreau.

Learn More About Apogeestrong

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67. What is Poetry Teatime and why should we do it? Sep 30, 2024

Show notes

When I started homeschooling, I quickly discovered that I had stepped into an underground Harry Potter world of magic. Homeschoolers seemed to know secrets to delight and enchant their children--that somehow I had never learned about before. One of those delights was the introduction to poetry teatime...a practice created by THE Homeschooling Queen, the fabulous Julie Bogart. You want to delight boys, girls, kids, and teens alike with poetry? this practice is for you!

In this episode, we discuss how to host your very own poetry teatime at home with your beloved cherubs. Sit back, grab a cup of tea or hot chocolate and have a listen.

The Brave Writer by Julie Bogart

Poetry Teatime Companion: A Brave Writer Sampler of British and American Poems by Julie Bogart

A Child's Garden of Verses by Robert Louis Stevenson

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66. Alternative Education: Interview with Kerry McDonald, Author of "Unschooled" Sep 23, 2024

Show notes

Ever wondered if conventional education is the only path to raising curious, well-educated children? Our latest episode features Keri McDonald, acclaimed author of "Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom," who transitioned from an economics major to a passionate advocate for homeschooling and self-directed learning. Keri's personal journey is nothing short of inspiring, as she shares how shadowing a homeschooling family completely reshaped her views on education and led her to embrace the unschooling movement for her own children in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The pandemic acted as a catalyst, pushing many parents to reconsider traditional schooling. We explore various alternative education models that have gained popularity, such as homeschooling, micro schooling, hybrid approaches, and online learning platforms. Addressing concerns about the efficacy of these methods, we draw on peer-reviewed studies to demonstrate that children educated through these alternative models often excel, particularly in entrepreneurship. You'll also gain insights into how unrealistic educational benchmarks can affect perceptions of a child's abilities, and why a non-traditional approach might just be the answer.

Building a supportive community is crucial for a successful homeschooling journey, and this episode is packed with practical advice on how to find your tribe. From utilizing Facebook groups and local initiatives to understanding the landscape of micro schools, we guide you through the myriad options available to connect with like-minded families. Learn from grassroots efforts and specific examples, like those in South Florida, to navigate the burgeoning world of innovative schooling options. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a seasoned veteran, Keri's insights and our discussion will provide valuable guidance and encouragement.

Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom by Kerry McDonald

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School to Homeschool Website

65. Kids and Chores Sep 16, 2024

Show notes

Should kids do chores? If so, when should they start? In this episode, we dive into chores and kids.

References:

Article: Want to Raise More Successful (and Happier) Kids? Harvard Research Says Give Them More Chores by Jeff Haden

Article: Sparing Chores Spoils Children and Their Future Selves by Ami Albernez

Article: Best Age for Kids to Start Doing Chores by Susan Newman, Ph.D.

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64. Interview with Anesthesiologist, Dr. Dallen Mill: The Surprising Power of Reading Aloud Sep 09, 2024

Show notes

How does a father's battle with tuberculosis ignite a passion for reading that transcends generations? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Dallin Mill, an esteemed anesthesiologist, as he shares the touching story of how his father's illness sparked a love for reading that has profoundly shaped his own life and medical practice. Discover Dr. Mill's journey from growing up with a father who cherished books to becoming a medical professional who integrates the transformative power of reading into his work with patients and family.

This episode sheds light on the incredible benefits of reading aloud, as inspired by Megan Gurdon's "The Enchanted Hour" and the groundbreaking research of Dr. John Hutton. We dive into the science behind how reading picture books activates multiple brain regions in children, far more than screen time ever could. Reflecting on personal anecdotes and renewed commitments, we recount the heartwarming experience of reading "The Princess Bride" together as a family, even with teenagers, underscoring the lasting impact of shared literary moments.

Prepare to be inspired by Dr. Mill's innovative approach in pediatric anesthesia, where reading to children before surgery reduces anxiety and facilitates smoother recoveries. Hear touching stories of how this practice not only comforts young patients but also empowers their parents, leading to profound improvements in the surgical experience. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of community support, the importance of family bonding, and the vital role that reading plays in nurturing the next generation.

The Enchanted Hour by Meghan Cox Gurdon (Book)

The Enchanted Hour by Meghan Cox Gurdon (Audiobook)

The Read Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie (audiobook)

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63. Homeschooled, Harvard, & Blind: Interview with Liza and Campbell Rutherford Sep 02, 2024

Show notes

Despite popular, albeit ignorant belief, homeschoolers REALLY CAN and DO go to college!

How did a blind student overcome the odds and make it to Harvard? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Campbell and Liza Rutherford, who share their unique journey from public school struggles to the enriching world of homeschooling. Campbell, now a junior at Harvard studying applied mathematics with a focus on biology, faced significant challenges in public school due to the lack of adequate support for visually impaired students. When the local school district could no longer meet her needs, her mother Liza took the bold step to homeschool her, leading to a more personalized and effective educational experience.

Explore the transformative power of accessible education resources like Bookshare and BARD, which offer a wealth of eBooks and audiobooks tailored for students with print disabilities. Hear about the benefits of homeschooling for children with unique needs, including the flexibility to adapt learning approaches and the shift from traditional materials to a literature-based education. Discover the crucial role of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the persistent fight for essential resources such as braille textbooks and assistive technology.

Navigate the complexities of the college application process through Campbell's journey, from dual enrollment in high school to securing admission offers from nine prestigious universities. Learn about the strategic planning involved in creating effective high school transcripts and the significant financial aid opportunities that made Harvard more affordable than state schools. This episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling and highlights the resilience and adaptability required for a successful educational path.

Resources Referred to In this Episode:

Guest Hollow: Curriculum used for History

Braille BARD: For Braille

Libby: Audiobook/ebook app

Brave Writer: Curriculm used for writing

Learning Ally: Resource for Struggling Readers

Common App: For College Applications

Coalition for College: For College Applications

STAMPS Scholar Program

Bookshare: Free Audiobooks for Learning, Reading, and other Disabilities

College Applications Secrets: Your Teen's Unique Game Plan to ACE Their Applications and Get Into Their Dream School by Dr. Gena Lester

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62. Eight Fights Worth Picking with Your Kids Aug 26, 2024

Show notes

As the saying goes...we need to pick our battles. Well, today, we discuss the eight fights we NEED to pick with our kids!

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61. Why Children Can't Read: Interview with Dr. Irene Daria, Author of "I Didn't Believe Him" Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Irene Daria, a developmental psychologist and author who shares her transformative journey from journalism to becoming a fierce advocate for phonics-based education. Through her latest book, "I Didn't Believe Him," Dr. Daria sheds light on the shortcomings of current reading instruction methods and the emotional toll it takes on children and their families. Learn how her son's struggles with reading led her to uncover the critical flaws in the "balanced literacy" approach, and why systematic phonics instruction is essential for helping millions of struggling readers.

Ever wondered why your child's school isn't teaching them to read properly? Dr. Daria recounts her personal experience, revealing the deep frustrations and realizations that come with recognizing the inefficacy of popular educational methods. Discover the historical context behind reading instruction, from early phonics to Horace Mann's whole-word approach, and understand why many children are mislabeled as learning disabled when the real issue lies in how they're being taught. This episode underscores the importance of trusting your parental instincts and advocating for more effective educational practices.

Empower yourself with insights into the ongoing debates and legislative changes advocating for the science of reading. Dr. Daria discusses the pivotal role of parental advocacy and community support in transforming reading education. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply passionate about literacy, this episode offers valuable knowledge and encouragement to ensure children receive the best possible start in reading. Don't miss the chance to learn from Dr. Daria's expertise and become a more informed advocate for your child's education.

References:

Steps to Reading Website

I Didn't Believe Him by Dr. Irene Daria

Steps to Reading Book 1: Short Vowels

Steps to Reading Book 2: Blends

Steps to Reading Book 3: Diagrams

Steps to Reading Book 4: Long Vowels

Sold A Story Podcast

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60. Leaving Our Comfort Zone Aug 12, 2024

Show notes

What if the key to transforming your life lies in a simple shift in mindset? Growing up, I faced internal battles rooted in my educational experiences, which carried over into my professional life. It wasn't until my husband and I ventured into entrepreneurship that I experienced a pivotal mindset shift. This episode delves into the profound impact that embracing a growth mindset has had on our homeschooling journey and personal fulfillment. Learn how adopting this mindset can open new pathways for joy, learning, and self-improvement for you and your family.

Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself like never before? Drawing from practical examples like training for a 5K and tackling homeschooling challenges, we explore the science behind comfort zones and how pushing boundaries can lead to significant personal growth. Discover the inspiring stories of parents and children growing together by embracing new experiences, and learn tips on setting realistic goals that prevent burnout. Celebrate your accomplishments, recognize your growth, and continue pushing yourself—you're doing better than you think!

Articles and Books Referenced in the Show:

Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard: by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions by Dr. Dan Ariely

Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset: What's the Difference by Catherine Cote

Psychologs: The Psychology Behind Hard Work

Is It Time to Leave Your Comfort Zone? How Leaving Can Spark Positive Change by Jessica Kent

Mindset by Carol Dweck

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