How to View the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
Jun 20, 2023
A total solar eclipse that will traverse North America is quickly approaching. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a phenomenon you and your kids will talk about for years. Please note: This podcast episode is from 2017 but I have updated this blog post for the upcoming solar eclipse in 2024.
The best way to see the eclipse in 2024 is to be somewhere along the path of totality that goes from Mexico to Maine. Even if you’re outside this area, you’ll still be treated to a sight unparalleled in all of nature.
Think about it: the moon will pass between the earth and the sun and darkness will engulf you. The stars will be visible at midday!
A short video illustrating why we don’t have an eclipse every month.
See the Eclipse in Person
The best way to view the eclipse is to be there in person. For many people in the United States, you can drive 4-6 hours and be along the path of totality.
If you live along that path, or you plan to travel, here are a few tips:
1. Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the last minute to make plans. Travel will be difficult as the date approaches, especially around major metropolitan areas.
If you want to use this as an opportunity to teach your kids about astronomy, find some books or videos to share with them. You might want to start with my blog post Best Resources for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.
2. Be Safe
Whether it’s while traveling or when viewing the eclipse, safety is important. Animals freak out when an eclipse occurs so if you’re in a rural area watch out for strange behavior.
Don’t plan to drive too far on the day of the eclipse. If you need to travel that day be conscious of the fact that many people will be trying to do the same thing.
Make sure you have protective eyewear for viewing the eclipse. DO NOT look directly at the sun until it’s totally covered! Once the sun is covered, you can remove your glasses for naked eye observation.
3. Be Courteous
I recommend that you and your family observe the event alone. If you plan to go to a viewing party be aware of the people around you. Don’t block a person’s view.
If someone has a telescope, DO NOT just walk up and use it. Don’t even touch it without permission. Professional and amateur astronomers are kind and helpful people but touching their equipment without permission is a no-no.
Where to Watch Online
Ideally, you want to see the eclipse in person. However, work requirements, family situations, and other situations out of your control may prevent that.
If you live anywhere in the lower 48 states, you’ll be able to see a partial eclipse. The same safety rules apply when viewing the eclipse. At no point during a partial eclipse is it safe for you to remove protective eyewear.
If it’s cloudy where you are or you live in Alaska or Hawaii or you want to watch the eclipse from overseas I recommend checking out the NASA Live Stream or the SLOOH Live Stream.
Both of these sites will have excellent programming leading up to and on the day of the eclipse. Again, it’s not the best option but it’s better than nothing.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Special Announcement for New Listeners
Oct 12, 2021
If you’re new to the podcast, you might be wondering why I haven’t released an episode. If you’ve been around here for a long time you may want to know what’s going on.
If you want to keep up with me on social media (not the blog/podcast) you can follow me on Twitter and Instagram.
4 Important Things To Do Before Giving Your Child A Smartphone
Dec 16, 2020
Are you planning to give your child a smartphone, tablet, or console this holiday season? Before you wrap it (if you haven’t already) consider doing a few things first.
Set Expectations
The number one piece of advice I give parents when buying their child a device is to set expectations. You need to decide what kind of restrictions you’ll put in place and how you want it to be used. Will you limit how often and how long they’re allowed to use it? Will you limit the types of games they’re allowed to play? All of these things should be thought about before you give them the device so you can set their expectations after they receive it.
Device Controls
Nearly every electronic device comes with some form of parental controls. I’ve advocated for them for over 10 years and companies are finally making it easier for parents to manage how, when, and how long their children use their devices.
Screen Time (iOS) – Apple has always had a walled garden so you’ll either need to manage your child’s device directly or use another iOS device. Screen Time has great controls and works well with Family Sharing.
Family Link (Android) If you got your child any smartphone besides an iPhone you most-likely will use Family Link to manage parental controls. Fortunately, they have an iOS app too.
Amazon FreeTime Fire tablets, TVs, and even Alexa-enable devices can be managed with Amazon’s FreeTime. In my experience, Amazon has the weakest controls.
Consoles: The Nintendo Switch and XBox both have dedicated apps that you can use to manage parental controls on their consoles. Sony’s Playstation requires you to use a browser or its general Playstation app.
Network Controls
For whole-house Internet controls you can turn to your router or a secondary device. If you’re using the router your Internet provider installed, check with them for information on parental controls. I suggest either a second router for the kids or Circle by Disney.
Circle Home Plus – The Circle Home Plus device connects with your router to manage every Internet-connected device on your home network.
Home Router – Every home router these days has some level of parental controls. Check your manufacturer’s website for instructions to configure those settings.
Software and Apps
No solution will fully protect you and your children so if you need to take a belt and suspenders approach I recommend installing an app on their device for additional monitoring.
Covenant Eyes – I’ve been an advocate (and affiliate) for Covenant Eyes for over a decade. They’re the gold-standard when it comes to monitoring and filtering.
Accountable2You – If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, Accountable2You has got you covered. It occasionally triggers false alarms but I’ve still found it to be a useful tool.
If you found value in this episode of The Wired Homeschool, consider a donation that reflects the value you received by buying me a coffee.
Music for the podcast is “Loopster” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Some of the links in the posts on this site are “affiliate links.” That means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive a commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
MySchool: A Tech Tool for Homeschoolers with Justin Shell
Nov 17, 2020
One of the most difficult things for new homeschoolers, and even some experienced homeschoolers, is finding community resources that are friendly to homeschoolers.
MySchool is a community-driven resource that connects parents to homeschool spots (like museums, co-ops, and nature centers). It’s like an Airbnb for home education.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xivrl8AjLo
Justin Shell started MySchool after he and his wife started homeschooling and were looking for locations and activities for their children.
Homeschooling families are encouraged to sign up for MySchool and add “spots” that other homeschooling families could use for learning and social activities.
Music for the podcast is “Loopster” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Some of the links in the posts on this site are “affiliate links.” That means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive a commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Homeschooling After an Emergency
Jun 19, 2020
If you were forced into homeschooling because of an emergency, you may have found that it works well for your family and want to continue.
Maybe you’re not comfortable with how your school district is planning to reopen or you’ve decided that this is something you think is a good fit for your family.
In this episode of The Wired Homeschool my wife Lisa joins me to talk about homeschooling philosophy, curriculum, online resources, and more.
We condense 20 years of homeschooling into a 30-minute episode. Listen in to learn what you need to know if you plan to homeschool after COVID.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Emergency Homeschooling and COVID-19
Mar 13, 2020
In 2020, a global pandemic caused many public schools in the United States to shift to remote learning.
Due to these unforeseen circumstances, many parents considered or were compelled to homeschool their children.
For many of these parents, this was an especially stressful time full of uncertainty. It’s important that we in the homeschooling community do not panic and show kindness and compassion towards each other during these difficult times.
If you’re new to homeschooling or if you’re looking for additional resources I’ve listed a few below.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Noah Tetzner - Homeschooler to Full-Time Podcaster
Jun 10, 2019
About Noah Tetzner
Noah Tetzner is a homeschool graduate who enjoys sharing his passion for history with the world! He is the host of multiple historical podcasts that feature interviews with some of the world’s brightest scholars.
Recently, he has launched a new podcast called Lessons from a Homeschooler where you can join him in learning about topics such as history, education, and literature from acclaimed speakers across the homeschooling world.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How to Homeschool Like Ursula Burns
Mar 30, 2019
Ursula M. Burns became the first black woman to head a Fortune 500 company when she was appointed CEO of Xerox. She also became the first woman to succeed another as head of a Fortune 500 company.
Burns led the STEM program of the White House from 2009 to 2016 and is the current chairman and CEO of VEON, the eleventh largest mobile network operator in the world based on subscribers. Burns is also on the board of Uber.
Much like we did with the previous “Homeschool Like” series, we’ll take a look at her business acumen and apply that to homeschooling.
1. Be Authentic.
In an interview with Time, Ursula Burns said in the early years of her career the one thing she would not give up is her hair.
She encourages women, especially women trying to get into STEM to use their uniqueness as an opportunity to distinguish themselves from others.
We need to encourage our children to embrace what’s unique about themselves (being homeschooled) and use that as a way to stand out from the crowd. Don’t look at it as a burden, but an opportunity.
2. Listen to your employees.
Some parents think they have all the answers when it comes to homeschooling. While we are certainly responsible for educating our children, we should listen to them too.
As our children get older, their interests will change and we should be able to tailor their education so that they have a vested interest. We can only do that if we listen to them.
3. Recognize that you can not do everything yourself.
The same is true in homeschooling, it’s difficult for one parent to be the only educator. Both parents need to help.
4. Take a stand for what you believe in.
Believe it or not, there are still people out there who think homeschooling is bad for children. Governments, like Brazil and Germany, have basically made it illegal to homeschool.
There may come a time when you need to take a stand for your belief in homeschooling. Be prepared to hold your ground against family, friends, and total strangers.
5. Measure goals and outcomes to make better decisions.
Grades are not goals. test results don’t always reflect the outcomes you’re looking for when educating your children. Book knowledge shouldn’t be the ultimate goal.
In our family, we want to instill a love of learning. We want to equip our children to be successful adults. We also want them to define what success looks like.
6. Have fun and truly enjoy your job to have the most success.
When I hear about parents and children who are burdened by homeschooling my heart drops. Anyone who is homeschooling and doesn’t truly find joy in the process will not have ultimate success.
It brings a smile to my face when I see the joy on my wife’s face when she’s talking about an experiment the kids did or a history nugget she learned about that day.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Homeschooling With Hulu? 10 Documentaries You Can Watch Now
Jan 30, 2019
Educational content is available all over the Internet. As streaming services become more popular, more educational documentaries become available to homeschoolers.
Previously, I’ve shared YouTube channels and documentaries on Netflix that are educational. In this episode of The Wired Homeschool, I share 10 documentaries you can find on Hulu right now that you can use for homeschooling.
The list reflects my leaning towards science and technology (especially, space) but you can find other interesting educational content on Hulu that covers topics like humanities, finances, and history.
Updated 3/16/2020 — Since the release of the podcast, some of the titles mentioned in the recording are no longer available. I’ve substituted the missing titles with the current ones.
Drugs, Inc.
Drugs: A multibillion-dollar industry that fuels crime and violence like no other substance on the planet. Turning cartel leaders into billionaires, the illegal drug industry also provides vital income to hundreds of thousands of poor workers across the globe. Rating: TV-14. Watch now.
Mythbusters
The MythBusters, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, two special effects experts with more than 30 years of experience, methodically set out to bust urban legends. Rating: PG. Watch now.
What on Earth
Some images caught by satellites in space defy explanation: massive tsunamis that disappear, a sinister blood-red lake in war-torn Baghdad and a whirlpool in the ocean the size of a state asking experts, analysing the sites on the ground ‘What on Earth’. Rating: TV-PG. Watch now.
Above and Beyond: NASA’s Journey to Tomorrow
Directed, produced, and narrated by Academy Award®-nominated and Emmy®-winning Rory Kennedy, the film examines the ways NASA has changed not only our vision of the universe, but also our planet, and ourselves. Running time: 90 minutes. Rating: NR. Watch now
Apollo 11
Crafted from a newly-discovered trove of 70mm footage, and more than 11,000 hours of uncatalogued audio recordings, Apollo 11 goes straight to the heart of NASA’s most celebrated mission. Rating: G. Watch now.
Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World
Oscar®-nominated documentarian Werner Herzog (Grizzly Man, Cave of Forgotten Dreams) chronicles the virtual world from its origins to its outermost reaches. Rating: PG-13. Watch now
RBG
An intimate portrait of an unlikely rock star: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. With unprecedented access, the filmmakers explore how her early legal battles changed the world for women. Rating: PG. Watch now.
How It’s Made
How It’s Made shows viewers how many of the everyday objects we seldom stop to think about become the things they are. Viewers will be amazed to see the process of how many common items are manufactured in high-tech factories around the world. Running time: 22 minutes per episode. Rating: TV-G. Watch now.
Revolt
In this documentary series, we explore the future of energy in America’s Heartland and how that will shape the future of our climate. Running time: 11-15 minutes. Rating: NR. Watch now.
Zero Days
A black ops cyber-attack launched by the U.S. and Israel on an Iranian nuclear facility unleashed malware with unforeseen consequences. The Stuxnet virus infiltrated its pre-determined target only to spread its infection outward, ultimately exposing systemic vulnerabilities that threatened the very safety of the planet. Delve deep into the burgeoning world of digital warfare in this documentary thriller from Academy Award® winning filmmaker Alex Gibney. Running time: 114 minutes. Rating: R. Watch now.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Getting Devices Ready for Giving with Michael Prince
Nov 30, 2018
Michael Prince from BecauseFamily joins me again to discuss safe digital parenting.
With the holidays just around the corner, you’ll want to make sure any gifts you’re giving to your kids are safe and ready to use when they’re unwrapped.
Michael and I talk about some of the things you’ll want to do before handing a pocket-computer over to your kids this Christmas.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Dave Stotts – Drive Thru History Adventures
Oct 30, 2018
About Dave Stotts and Drive Thru History
Dave Stotts has spent the last two decades in professional video and media production. His career in documentary production has taken him to nearly 30 countries to shoot and edit films on a wide variety of topics, including history, science, religion, homeland security, and Bible archaeology.
In 2004, Dave stepped in front of the camera to host the award-winning television series, Drive Thru History. DTH is a fun, fast-paced, content-rich history show that speeds through ancient civilizations, the Holy Land, and the founding of America, allowing the viewer to experience the people, places, and events that shaped our world and the Christian faith.
Now, with Drive Thru History Adventures, Dave Stotts takes the best of Drive Thru History® and combines it with an online world of curriculum and resources. The ultimate goal of DTH Adventures is to get kids fired up about learning important truths and becoming better human beings.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Experience Astronomy with Luke Gilkerson
Aug 30, 2018
Many kids and parents are fascinated by the night sky but don’t know where to start with nightly observations. With Experience Astronomy homeschool parents and students can learn to navigate the heavens and figure out if that bright light is a planet, star, or just an airplane.
About Luke Gilkerson
Luke Gilkerson is the creator of Experience Astronomy, a series of online courses for homeschool students of all ages. For the last several years he has taught astronomy at his local homeschool co-op and now also enjoys teaching over 1,000 students all over the world about the sky! Learn more at experienceastronomy.com.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Online Great Books with Scott Hambrick
Aug 15, 2018
Every homeschooler understands that reading is essential. However, sometimes we may not know what our children should be reading. Or, perhaps we know what they should read but we don’t understand the essential themes and ideas of a piece of great literature.
At Online Great Books you’ll find a community that will help you understand the classics of the Western world. As parents, it’s important for us to continue learning even as we’re teaching our children and Online Great Books is a fantastic way for you to dig into those classics that may seem daunting.
Scott Hambrick, the “Reader-in-Chief” at Online Great Books challenges us to answer the call of the great thinkers that shaped out civilization.
We take the ideas of ancient Greece, follow them through their evolution in Rome, the middle ages, the enlightenment, right up to our own time. We read the best, men like Plato, Aristotle, Locke, Kant, Wittgenstein, et al., and allow them to teach us.
We push our members to do the hard work it takes to become classically educated men and women who are ready to apply their newfound knowledge in every aspect of their lives. OGB also provides accountability, encouraging you to stay the course and obtain the educational goals you have set for yourself.
Scott and I had a great conversation about some of these classic books, how they shaped our culture, and why homeschoolers should be reading classical literature. During this interview, I was challenged to expand my literary knowledge and read some of the books covered at Online Great Books and I hope you’ll join me in the first seminar reading through The Illiad.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
7 Alexa Skills Homeschoolers Can Use With Their Amazon Echo – WHS 231
Aug 04, 2018
If you’re using an Amazon Echo for homeschooling, let me know how you’re using it in the comments below. What other skills would you suggest?
Learn Greek & Latin Root Words
This skill provides a Greek or Latin root word, the definition of that word, and examples of English words where you’ll find the Greek or Latin root. Get started by saying, “Alexa, teach me root words.”
Math Mania
Math Mania provides a variety of game modes including addition only, subtraction only, multiplication only, division only, algebra only, fractions only, money only, or really challenge yourself and play the everything mode! Activate this skill by saying, “Alexa, ask Math Mania to play.”
Reuters TV (World) or BBC News
Updated around the clock by editorial teams on four continents, Reuters TV taps into a network of 2,500 journalists reporting from 200 locations worldwide. Add this flash briefing with the phrase, “Alexa, what’s in the news?” Note: If you live in the United States you’ll activate the U.S. version.
NASA Mars
Ever wonder what the rovers on Mars are doing? Here’s your chance to ask NASA Mars. Use the NASA Mars skill to learn about Mars and get the latest rover updates directly from NASA. Mission team members write the updates weekly. Say, “Alexa, open NASA Mars,” to check on the “red planet”.
This Day in History
Check-in daily to find out about the historical events that happened on this day and every other day of the year. Come back each day and hear the top historical event of the day. Use the phrase, “Alexa, launch This Day in History,” to get started.
National Geographic Geo Quiz
Put your geography knowledge to the test with this skill. Six new questions are released every day. Enable by saying, “Alexa, play Geo Quiz.”
Questions Kids Ask Flash Briefing
Questions Kids Ask is the perfect flash briefing for those parents with inquisitive kids. Kid-friendly and fun for the whole family. Enable using your Alexa app.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
10 Ways to Use an Amazon Echo Dot in Your Homeschool
Jul 20, 2018
When the Amazon Echo Dot was originally released many people saw the smart speaker as nothing more than a novelty.
Many people bought it and its older sibling the Amazon Echo and quickly realized how helpful it could be in their day-to-day lives.
The Amazon Echo Dot has a lot of functionality in it that helps with day-to-day activities. With it, you can set reminders, message other people, and buy milk when you’ve run out.
Homeschoolers can make use of the Amazon Echo Dot too. Here are 10 ways to use an Amazon Echo Dot for homeschooling.
As a quick side note, many of these things will work with Google Home Mini too. Side note: I forgot to include the theme music in this podcast.
Spelling and Definitions
If your kids are constantly asking you how to spell “amoeba” or what existentialism means Alexa has got you covered! All of your kids can ask Alexa how to spell a word or for its definition.
Setting a Timer or Reminders
We use timers a lot in our house. Whether it’s for cooking or playing video games, there’s always a beep, ding, or ring going off for something in our house. You can have multiple timers running simultaneously and Alexa will remind you which timer is going off. It’s very helpful.
Researching Topics
If your kids have ever needed to “just look something up” but all of the screens are in use, Alexa can help with basic research. All you need to do is ask about a specific topic and Alexa will provide a brief overview and sometimes offer additional information. This is very useful if you need to look up one specific fact.
Translate Languages
If your kids are like mine, they like to play around with languages. They can ask Alexa how to say, “I love BTS,” in Korean, and impress their fellow ARMY members when they get together to watch YouTube videos.
Solving Math Problems
Your Amazon Echo Dot isn’t going to be solving differential equations any time soon but it can help with simple math problems. Our kids have tried multiplication, division, percentages, and square roots.
Converting Between Units of Measurement
Need to know how many furlongs are in a kilometer? Alexa has got you covered. For those quick conversions, a smart speaker can be very helpful.
Listening to Educational Podcasts
There are a lot of educational podcasts that you and your family can listen to together. Simply ask Alexa to play a podcast and it will usually find it. If you’re having trouble getting one to play, try using the MyCast skill from Blubrry.
Listening to News for Current Events
Flash briefings are a great way to keep up with current events and news. Pick a trusted news source and listen to their flash briefing while discussing the day’s news.
Play Trivia Games
Trivia and guessing games are a great way for kids to test their knowledge or they can provide a much-needed break on a busy homeschooling day. Games like Jeopardy!, Cat Trivia, and The Science Game are great ways to entertain and test your kids’ knowledge.
Install Educational Skills
There are a number of educational skills that can help your kids learn more simply by interacting with Alexa. Educational stories and facts are a question away!
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
7 YouTube Channels for Homeschoolers to Learn How to Fix Cars
Jun 30, 2018
A major part of homeschooling involves teaching practical life skills like how to fix cars.
OK, maybe not everyone needs to learn to fix a car but basic maintenance or knowing when to take your car to a mechanic are skills every homeschooler should learn.
If you have a budding mechanic or if you don’t think you can’t teach your kids to change the oil in a car, you can lean on these 7 YouTube channels to help you and your kids learn how to fix cars.
1. Scotty Kilmer
With 50 years of experience as a mechanic, Scotty Kilmer provides down-to-earth advice in his videos. You won’t get detailed instructions for repairs but his decades of experience are an invaluable resource for beginner mechanics.
2. Eric the Car Guy
When I need to fix something on my 2000 Honda Civic or 2004 Odyssey, the first YouTube channel I check is Eric the Car Guy‘s. Eric’s videos often provide step-by-step instructions for many common repairs. It also helps that he used to be a Honda-certified mechanic.
3. Humble Mechanic
Honestly, I don’t know how Charles, aka Humble Mechanic, keeps his beard out of the way when he works. Here’s another great channel to learn how to repair cars with step-by-step instructions.
4. Engineering Explained
When I want to learn about certain automotive principles I check out Engineering Explained. On this channel, Chris explains how a car works. This is very important when you want to learn to repair them
5. ChrisFix
Often when you see videos on YouTube they don’t show you how to make the repairs with common hand tools. ChrisFix shows you how easy it is to maintain and repair your car with common hand tools.
6. Richpin
The first mechanic channel I subscribed to was Richpin’s. I had an old Saturn wagon that needed some mechanical help and his videos helped me save money by doing the repairs myself.
Bonus: Mighty Car Mods Out of all the channels, Marty and Moog over at Mighty Car Mods are probably the most entertaining. What started as a channel that featured simple modifications done on a weekend now features weeks-long projects that turn out fantastic & fun cars.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
5 3D Printers Under $500 for Homeschooling
Jan 30, 2018
When you think of 3D printers, what comes to mind? Do you think technology like 3d printing is beyond the reach of homeschoolers?
It’s not! 3D printers have become affordable and easy to use. There are many 3D printers that have been specifically designed for home use and homeschoolers can use them to teach STEM topics.
Your kids can learn about 3D modelling, engineering, and other scientific principles while designing their own creations. Who knows, maybe your child might design a better mousetrap with his or her 3D printer.
In this podcast, I’ll cover the basics of 3D printing, some basic guidelines to consider when purchasing a 3D printer and talk about 5 3D printers under $500 for homeschooling. If you’re already familiar with 3D printing you can skip ahead to the list.
How Do 3D Printers Work?
Let’s start with a primer on how 3D printing works. 3D printing can also be referred to as “additive manufacturing”. The printer slowly adds material to build the 3D object through an extruder.
Most 3D printers use a technology called Fused Deposition Modeling, or FDM for short. The material, or filament, is added layer by layer on to a build plate in 2D layers. When all of the layers have been completed, a 3D object has been printed.
The filament in a printer can consist of many different materials but most are PLA or ABS plastic. All the printers discussed here use PLA, a non-toxic material derived from natural materials like sugar cane.
Prices for 3D printers vary depending on their application. Many entry-level 3D printers can be had for under $500. Some hobbyists spend $2,000 – $5,000 on personal 3D printers.
I’m primarily focusing on entry-level 3D printers designed for home use. If you plan to purchase one here are some things to consider:
Safety features. The filament can be very hot when extruded from the nozzle so consider features like an enclosure and a tip sensor so that printing stops if the door is opened or the printer is tipped.
Ease of use and setup. Does the 3D printer need to be assembled or is it ready to go out of the box? Is the software provided easy to use for your kids?
Cost of supplies. Most printers come with a small about of filament. Once that runs out how much will it cost? Does the 3D printer support generic filament or is it proprietary?
Software included. What software is included with the printer? Is it compatible with other 3D printing software or can you only use the software designed specifically for the 3d printer?
Online resources. Does the manufacturer provide online educator’s resources? Are there lesson plans and a curriculum guide available? Are these guides designed for home use or in a classroom?
Build volume and resolution. How big are the objects that you can print? Also, how fine is the nozzle? Can you print smooth and intricate objects or will you need to manually add details.
Production speed. Depending on the size and complexity of the object being printed, it can take as little as 10 minutes or several hours to complete. If you have impatient kids, consider a 3D printer with faster production speeds.
Additional features. Heated plates, wireless or Bluetooth connectivity, and LCD screens are just some of the options you’ll find. Typically, the more convenience features a 3D printer has, the higher the cost.
5 3D Printers Under $500 for Homeschooling
Now that we’ve covered the basics of 3D printing and what you want to look for in a 3D printer, let’s talk about some of the 3D printers that you might want to consider for homeschooling.
da Vinci miniMaker
XYZprinting’s da Vinci series is colorful and affordable. Designed specifically for young kids, the miniMaker uses a proprietary filament and software package.
It has one the largest build areas on this list at 5.9″ x 5.9″ x 5.9″ but the built plate is not removable. da Vinci miniMaker – $189 at Amazon
MP Select Mini
The MP Select Mini is a great 3D printer for people who want an open platform. It can use any compatible filament and software package.
Despite its low price, it features a heated build plate , color LED screen, nozzle cooling fan, and accessory kit. All of these features are normally only found in more expensive 3D printers.
It ships fully assembled but getting started has a pretty steep learning curve. Be prepared to tinker and tweak to get it going. Build area is 4.7″ x 4.7″ x 4.7″. MP Select Mini – $219 at Amazon
ToyBox
Toybox is designed to get kids started with 3D printing quickly and easily. It comes with a companion app that lets kids find and print toys easily. It has the smallest build area on the list: 3.5″ x 3″ x 3.9″
It comes with half a pound (~225g) of “printer food” and features a removable, flexible build bed that allows kids to easily remove their builds. Additional “food packs” are available for $34 that include your choice of 4 colors of filament.
Toybox is currently on back-order until March and will retail for $399 but if you purchase through their crowdfunding campaign you’ll save 25%. Preorder ToyBox from IndieGoGo – $299
Flashforge Finder
The Finder is an entry-level 3D printer from Flashforge. It comes pre-assembled, is easy to use, and features a number of convenience features.
It uses a proprietary filament so you’ll be buying your supplies from Flashforge and that will limit your selection of colors.
Features include a filament run-out detection, a color LCD screen, removable built plate, and USB stick support. The build area is about 5.5″ x 5.5″ x 5.5″ making it one of the largest in the group. Flashforge Finder at Amazon – $399
Printrbot Play
Printrbot Play provides high-quality 3D printing at an affordable price. It has a metal chassis, fan shroud, and heat shield to protect little fingers from touching the hot nozzle.
Printrbot Play uses open filament so you’ll have plenty of choices with regard to color and spool capacity. Printrbot is known for their customer service and a great community surrounding their 3D printers.
In addition, PrintrBot provides lesson plans and other educational resources for use with their 3D printers.
Do you have a 3D printer? What model would you recommend? Are you thinking about introducing 3d printing to your kids? Let me know in the comments below.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Osmo Coding Jam Teaches Kids to Code and Rock Out
May 27, 2017
I was recently given early access to Osmo Coding Jam to review the product ahead of its launch. It’s a game combined with tactile elements that teach kids to code using pictograms on tiles.
A nifty stand and mirror allow your iPad to see the tiles laying on a table in front of the device. It’s an ingenious design that I found fun to use.
Before I give my full review, here are some things you’ll want to know about Osmo Coding Jam.
Price
If you already have a base from another Osmo product, the cost of the tiles for the game is $59. Need a base too? The base and tiles cost $78.
While that may seem expensive, keep this in mind: Osmo will replace any lost or broken piece for FREE. You’re getting a high-quality product that’s built to withstand use by children who drop things. Of course, they won’t replace your iPad if it gets dropped.
The base even comes with a 1-year warranty. No 90-day warranty here!
Product Details
Coding Jam works with all iPads except the 12″ iPad Pro and the original iPad. It even works with my 1st generation iPad Mini from 2012.
Coding Jam is for children ages 5-12. Adults will like it too!
When I unboxedOsmo Coding Jam, I was impressed with the quality of the product. The pieces have a nice weight to them and don’t feel cheap.
The storage box for the tiles is a nice touch. Not only is it great for storing the tiles but the base fits neatly on the lid for easy storage.
If you want to get the most out of the game, be sure to sign up for a free account with Osmo. This will allow you to have multiple profiles so each child’s progress is saved individually. This feature alone will save you headaches and cries of, “She messed up my jams!”
The tutorial in the game progressively takes kids through more advanced steps unlocking characters along the way. This helps to build confidence and demonstrate how to use the game. There is very little text so reluctant readers can use the game too.
Once your child has finished some of the practice sessions, “Create Mode” will be unlocked and the fun really begins! Kids can design their own songs and anonymously share them with others via OsmoTV.
As more and more practice puzzles are unlocked, more characters and music styles are revealed. The open and creative aspect of Coding Jam lets kids explore and learn to code at their own pace.
Some of the things your kids will learn playing Osmo Coding Jam are:
Coding fundamentals
Pattern recognition
Sequencing and loops
Rhythm, harmony, and melody
Creative coding
Final Thoughts
If you decide to get other Osmo games, you’ll find the magnetic core coding blocks can be shared from one game to another. This increases the fun combinations your kids can create with Osmo games.
Osmo Coding Jam is currently available on Amazon or directly from Osmo in their online store. The colorful tiles, fun gameplay, and a plethora of musical combinations make Osmo Coding Jam an excellent addition to your STEM toolbox.
Giveaway
Want an opportunity to win Osmo Coding Jam? Enter the giveaway below!
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
10 Internet Safety Tips for Teens and Tweens
Oct 10, 2016
Sometimes being on the Internet is like driving into oncoming traffic. It’s bad enough there are potholes, reckless drivers, and traffic jams to deal with when making your way down the “information superhighway” (bonus points for 90s tech references) but if you’re not careful you and your kids can inadvertently swerve into oncoming traffic.
Following simple safety tips will keep you safe on the real roads and these 10 Internet safety tips for teens and tweens will keep you and your kids safe on your digital drive.
Think before you post.
Respect other people online, and avoid gossip.
Ask for permission before you meet online friends in person.
Don’t feed cyberbullies—block the sender, ignore mean messages, file a report with the website or police.
Speak up if you see someone getting bullied.
Clean up your profile, eliminate your page of everything too personal, embarrassing, and illegal.
Use privacy settings.
Monitor what others post about you.
Keep adults in the loop—tell them when you add new sites, new friends, or see something suspicious or harmful.
Use your voice for good—use social media to do something productive for you or a cause.
How do you keep your kids safe online?
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How to Homeschool Like Bill Gates
Aug 13, 2016
Sponsor: Visit K12.com/LISTEN or call (855)-628-9529 for more information.
Bill Gates didn’t build a successful company or become one of the world’s richest men by chance. There are specific things he did in his life and career that got him to where he is today.
Let’s take a look at how Bill Gates managed and led Microsoft and see how we can apply that to homeschooling our children.
Thanks to all the individual patrons who have supported the podcast. Special thanks go out to Matt Kamla, Lori Silsbee, Winston Crutchfield, & Aaron Hughey.
Be in the Right Place at the Right Time
Finding teachable moments is very important in homeschooling. Sometimes you have a child who cannot grasp a certain concept but a situation arises that illustrates what you’re trying to teach him. Tale that opportunity to teach! Recognize when you’re in the right place at the right time.
Have Strong Partnerships
Our spouses should be partners in homeschooling, that’s a given. Sometimes that’s not the case, or you may be a single parent trying to homeschool your children. We should find strong partnerships to help us homeschool even if our spouse is on board with the idea and especially if we’re struggling.
Never Give Up
Homeschooling is hard. Sometimes we fail. Sometimes we fail in a BIG way. Don’t let that stop you from homeschooling. Even if you’re in a situation that may cause you to stop homeschooling, you’re still able to influence your child’s education.
Think Big
Let your kids dream big! Encourage them to pursue their dreams. Yes, that may mean doing something they don’t like until they have the means or skills to fulfill those dreams but never let them lose their passion.
Life-long Learning
Learning doesn’t stop at the end of high school or college. It should be a life-long pursuit. One of the things that I love about homeschooling is learning new things. Encourage your kids to be life-long learners.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
15 STEM and STEAM Ideas for Homeschoolers - WHS 191
Jul 15, 2016
There are a number of creative ways to incorporate STEM topics into your homeschooling. During this year’s Podcast Awards I released 15 mini-episodes that shared 15 STEM and STEAM Ideas for Homeschoolers.
I’ve compiled all 15 of those ideas into this single podcast. Listen to or read all of the great ways you can teach STEM and STEAM topics to your kids.
1. Watch YouTube Videos
I thought I’d deal with the low-hanging fruit first: Watching YouTube videos. There are dozens of STEM- and STEAM-related YouTube channels that you and your kids can watch and enjoy. Here are five that I highly recommend:
All STEM and STEAM categories can be covered using LEGO bricks. The possibilities seem endless! Check out some of these great resources for using LEGO bricks to teach STEM and STEAM topics.
People use duct tape for all kinds of things from repairing a car’s bodywork to constructing prom gowns. Your kids could get creative and do a little STEAM-learning along the way. Here are some resources to get you started:
If you have a Whovian in the house, what could be more exciting than having your own TARDIS? Here are some small and large projects you might want to consider building with your Whovian:
I’ve mentioned the fun little robots in the past. We’ve had Dash & Dot from Wonder Workshop for some time now and my kids still ask me on a regular basis to use them. While this is more costly than previous suggestions, Dash & Dot are a great investment for young kids interested in robotics and programming.
6. Play games
If I started listing all of the games you could use to teach STEM topics, we’d be here all day. Here are 5 that get my highest recommendations:
I’ve mentioned Edison in previous episodes and even interviewed the inventor. This inexpensive, LEGO-compatible little robot is a great way to introduce your kids to robotics. There are even free lesson plans and worksheets you can download.
8. Instructables projects
Whether you’re looking for a low-cost project using household items or a high-tech project that involves building custom components, you can find many projects that incorporate STEM topics with detailed instructions at Instructables. Here are 5 projects I found that will keep you and your kids tinkering.
Whether it’s because you’re pressed for time or you don’t feel comfortable covering certain topics, a complete curriculum would be nice to have when teaching STEM. fishertechnik has STEM kits that are not only fun for the kids to build but also have worksheets and lesson plans for you which explain what objectives and topics are covered in each activity.
10. Kiwi Crate
If you’re looking for a way to supplement your STEM education with fun activities, Tinker Crate by Kiwi Crate is a great option. Each month, a new activity is delivered to your home that your kids can dive into and learn about STEM topics without being bogged down by technical terms. These crates will inspire your kids and spark their curiosity.
11. Design and build a soapbox derby car
When I was a kid, my summers included building gravity cars. It was a rite of passage and the competition with our kids to build the fastest and best-looking race car kept us busy for weeks. If you don’t think you can design one on your own, here are a few projects to give you some ideas:
When I’m asked by parents how to get their kids started with programming I always point them to Scratch.
Scratch is a programming language and an online community where children can program and share interactive media such as stories, games, and animation with people from all over the world. As children create with Scratch, they learn to think creatively, work collaboratively, and reason systematically. Scratch is designed and maintained by the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab.
If you’re looking for monthly projects that focus on technology, Creation Crate is the subscription service for you. Every month you get a project that utilizes an Arduino UNO R3 micro-computer to create a fun and educational gizmo. Your kids assemble the project on a solder-less breadboard and program the project by typing the code and then uploading it to the UNO.
14. Play with fire
I know what you’re thinking. I haven’t lost my mind putting out these mini-episodes. Burning something is a great way to determine its composition. Whether or not something burns tells you a lot about its properties and its science! When you’re experimenting with fire, kids are always paying attention. We’ve told them it’s dangerous and they like danger! So what are you waiting for? Go set something on fire!
I thought about this one for a long time and whether or not I should include it in the list. It seems like a cop-out. However, if you have an artistic-leaning child perhaps the idea of being able to film the experiments or projects and create a story around it would make them more interested in participating. All you need is your camera, smartphone, or tablet, and some simple, free video editing software and you’re all set!
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How to Homeschool Like Sir Richard Branson
Apr 07, 2016
In 1970, at the age of 20, Richard Branson founded a mail-order record company by the name of Virgin Records. Since then, he has founded eight different billion-dollar companies in eight different industries. Oh, by the way, he doesn’t have a degree in business.
Branson is one of the most unconventional entrepreneurs of the 20th century. He has started a space tourism company and plans to be on the first commercial flight into space along with his children. He’s been known to participate in dangerous publicity stunts for his companies.
My general attitude to life is to enjoy every minute of every day. I never do anything with a feeling of, ‘Oh God, I’ve got to do this today.’
Sir Richard Branson
Richard Branson’s management style and philosophy have made him one of the most successful businessmen in history. Let’s take a look at some of the characteristics of his management style and apply them to homeschooling.
Homeschooling should be something you enjoy. It shouldn’t be looked upon as an obligation. If it’s not fun then consider other alternatives. When your 8-year-old son would rather run around the kitchen shooting people in the face with Nerf guns it’s not fun. When you’re sick and can barely get out of bed it’s not fun. Those should be exceptions to the rule. Make homeschooling fun.
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
Confucius
Take Risks. Explore Uncharted Territory
It’s really easy in homeschooling to buy a packaged curriculum and use that to educate your kids. They’ll turn out OK but there’s more to education than book-work. Homeschooling gives you the opportunity to explore education in a way that ignites the imagination and cultivates creativity.
“The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education.”
Albert Einstein
You Can’t Obtain Perfection. Stop Trying
You’ve seen the pictures. You’ve read the stories. You’ve thought to yourself, “I’ll never be as perfect as Suzy Homeschooler.” Guess what? Suzy isn’t perfect either. Homeschooling and social media have created a monster: perfection. Parents post pictures of their perfect little school rooms and well-dressed kids and put up a façade of perfection. I recall Jesus saying something about white-washed tombs. Stop it. You can’t be perfect. Those people aren’t perfect. I’m not telling you to air your dirty laundry but you also shouldn’t think you need to hang out your white linens all the time. The perfect homeschooler doesn’t exist and you should stop trying to be that person. Strive for excellence instead of perfection.
“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”
Vince Lombardi
Beware an “Us vs. Them” Mentality
Some homeschoolers have an unhealthy “Us vs. Them” mentality. It’s us against the public schools or Christian homeschoolers against secular homeschoolers or unschoolers against traditional homeschoolers. There are many factions in homeschooling and it’s important to remember why you started homeschooling. Hopefully, you started homeschooling because you wanted to provide your children with the best education possible in a positive environment. Focus on your reasons for homeschooling instead of homeschooling against something.
“A good leader can engage in a debate frankly and thoroughly, knowing that at the end he and the other side must be closer, and thus emerge stronger. You don’t have that idea when you are arrogant, superficial, and uninformed.”
Nelson Mandela
Don’t Be Afraid to Dream Big
Sometimes we can get so focused on the daily and weekly grind of homeschooling that we fail to dream or let our kids dream. It’s OK to have crazy ideas and big dreams. Let your kids fantasize about their future and come off with big plans. Don’t tell them it’s impossible. When your kid comes up with a big idea talk to them about what it would take to accomplish their dream. It might be hard and they will have to have a lot of willpower but don’t tell them it’s impossible.
“Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of men.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How to Homeschool Like Steve Jobs
Feb 12, 2016
If I had to choose one gadget or device that has revolutionized homeschooling more than anything else I’d choose the iPad. No other device has propelled homeschooling forward like the iPad and the man responsible for it was Steve Jobs. Revolutionize your homeschooling with these 4 tips to homeschool like Steve Jobs.
In the book Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson chronicles the successes and failures of the former Apple CEO and provides a look into the life of a determined, passionate, innovative, and flawed leader. I bought and read the book shortly after it was published and since then have thought about four ways you can homeschool like Steve Jobs.
The Wired Homeschool is underwritten by Scholaric: The homeschool planner that SAVES you time. Plan, track, and organize your homeschool more easily than you ever imagined. Start your free trial today.
It’s real easy to get caught up in the groupthink of homeschooling. Groupthink is when people will set aside their personal beliefs in order to achieve consensus within a group. People just “go with the flow” because they don’t want to appear as if they disagree with other homeschoolers. “what curriculum do you use?” It’s the most-asked question among homeschoolers. I think this is because people want to make sure they’re fitting in the mold of a “good homeschooler”. Consider your personal beliefs about homeschooling and evaluate whether or not you’ve given in to groupthink or if you think different.
Simplify Your Life
Steve Jobs was well-known for wearing the same thing at every keynote presentation and public appearance: a black mock turtleneck shirt, jeans, and New Balance sneakers. He started doing this because it was one less decision he would have to make in a day. It was his signature style that also embodied the simplicity of Apple products. We often complicate our lives with unnecessary bells and whistles. Finding a simple process or solution to accomplish a task (homeschooling) isn’t always easy but in the long run, it will help us to be more consistent and effective in raising our kids.
Anticipate Needs
Steve Jobs once said, “It’s not about pop culture, and it’s not about fooling people, and it’s not about convincing people that they want something they don’t. We figure out what we want,” when referring to the products Apple produces. If you talk to your kids and ask them what they want out of homeschooling chances are their answer will be vastly different than yours. It’s up to you as the parent to anticipate their needs and find a way to meet them. In order to do that you need to know what you want out of homeschooling and then pursue that goal.
Be a Little Crazy
You have to be a little crazy to homeschool. Even though it’s gaining mainstream attention and increasing in popularity many people will politely smile and say, “That’s nice,” when you tell them you homeschool while thinking, “You’re crazy!” It’s the crazy ones who led the way to revolutionize education. It’s the crazy ones who will continue to change the world. One child at a time.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Hey, Ever Wonder How to Homeschool Like Elon Musk?
Jan 07, 2016
Did you know Elon Musk, the genius behind Tesla, SpaceX, and PayPal, homeschools his kids? Well, sort of! He actually started his own super innovative private school for them and about 15 other children. The cool part? No grades, and they pretty much take an unschooling approach to education.
It turns out, his way of thinking about education is a lot like how he tackles his businesses. And guess what? We can totally apply these basic principles to any homeschool setup! (By the way, a big shout-out to Scholaric, the homeschool planner that saves you time, for helping make this podcast possible. And thanks to all the individual patrons, especially Matt Kamla & Winston Crutchfield!)
So, how can we bring a little bit of that Elon Musk magic into our homeschooling?
Don’t Be Afraid to Take Some Smart Risks!
Honestly, I know a lot of homeschoolers (and maybe even myself sometimes!) who are a bit scared of taking risks. When you’re trying to make ends meet on one income, it’s natural to be cautious with your money. This might mean sticking with the same curriculum year after year, even if your kids dread it, just because you know they’ll “learn what they’re supposed to”. Or maybe you skip a cool enrichment opportunity because you’re worried it’ll stretch the budget, fearing your kids won’t even like it.
But here’s the thing: don’t be scared to take a calculated risk!. Imagine your child is super into “swamp rats” for an entire year. Instead of fighting it, find a way to weave swamp rats into your learning!. Yes, it might mean ditching your current curriculum, but it could also mean your kid absolutely loves learning all year long. How cool is that?
Dream Big: Have a Vision for the Future!
Some of us are fantastic at setting goals, right? Others might just take homeschooling one day at a time. Goals are awesome, and plans are super helpful. But what you really need is a vision for the future.
Think about it: A checklist for this school year isn’t quite a vision. A vision is long-term, and it might not even have measurable goals. Your plans and checklists are just the tools that help you work towards that bigger vision. It’s a fantastic idea to sit down with your spouse every year and just talk about what you envision for your homeschool. Do you want to raise future mad scientists or artists who totally follow their own muse? Talk it out, and keep that vision in your heart when you’re planning your homeschool journey.
Turn Setbacks into Learning Moments!
Let’s face it, we all hit bumps in the road. Every great inventor, successful business owner, or star athlete has faced setbacks. It’s just part of life! Sometimes we, as parents, have setbacks, and sometimes our kids do too.
Don’t let those setbacks stop you from homeschooling!. If health issues pop up, maybe take a year and just focus on the basics: reading, writing, and arithmetic. If you or your spouse are having job troubles, simply shift your schooling to the evenings. The key is to roll with it!.
Use those tough moments to reassess everything and figure out a new plan to deal with future problems. Your kids will be watching you, learning from how you handle the situation, and that’s a powerful lesson in itself.
Bring Your Kids to Work!
This is one I personally haven’t nailed yet! If you work from home, it’s a breeze, but if you’re in an office, it’s definitely trickier. Employers aren’t usually thrilled about kids running around. People in trades might have an easier time because the environment often lends itself to having a “helper” tag along.
Mark your calendars! The fourth Thursday in April, is National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. Start planning now! Chat with your employer to see if they’re participating or have anything planned. If not, just ask your manager or supervisor if it would be okay for one or two of your kids to tag along. It’s such a cool experience for them!
Seriously, Start Your OWN School!
As homeschoolers, we’ve already started our own school, right?. But sometimes, many homeschoolers just want a curriculum to follow, and there’s nothing particularly dynamic or exciting about that kind of “school at home”.
So, I say, do something fun, innovative, and totally uncommon in your homeschool!. Don’t ever say things like, “We haven’t finished our lessons today,” when your kids get an awesome invitation to go fishing. Let them go!. Try to break free from that day-in, day-out pattern of just “getting school done,” and instead, blaze your own unique trail.
Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Teaching Art Online with Rob Jensen from Art for Kids Hub
Feb 05, 2015
This week I’m super-psyched to bring you an interview with Rob Jensen from Art for Kids Hub.
Rob Jensen is a father to four children (Jack, Hadley, Austin, and Olivia) and married to Teryn.
His YouTube channel and website have thousands of videos that teach kids (and parents too) how to draw, paint, and more.
Since this interview was recorded, Rob and his family have created a line of art supplies and a subscription service that allows you to watch their art videos in a distraction- and ad-free environment.
Rob graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor’s in Fine Art and used to work for Ford Motor Company. After a successful career with Ford, he and his wife decided to move closer to home to focus more on their family.
Rob and his family love making art together and they record videos every week to share the joy of creating art together as a family.
The Wired Homeschool is underwritten by Scholaric: The homeschool planner that SAVES you time. Plan, track, and organize your homeschool more easily than you ever imagined. Start your free trial today.
Quote of the Week
“I have always been a learner because I knew nothing.” —Sidney Poitier
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
What is a Wired Homeschool?
Jul 01, 2010
Just a quick note for those of you who may be coming across this for the first time: This podcast is no longer active. It was regularly published from July 2010 to July 2019. I’ve republished this episode for archival purposes.
What is a Wired Homeschool?
A wired homeschool is any homeschool that leverages technology to improve their homeschooling experience. If you’re a parent that uses a computer or tablet as the primary mode of instruction or just as tool to enhance your homeschooling this podcast will help you with the technology you’re using for home education.
When were episodes be released?
Episodes were released weekly from 2010 to 2019. Each episode was between 10 and 12 minutes long providing clear and concise information to help you with your homeschool’s tech.
What topics were covered in the podcast?
Online security
Social media
Purchasing computers
Cell phones and smart phones
Online resources
Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been at it for years there’s something here for you and your family.
If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.
And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.
Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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