
Homeschool Coffee Break
203 episodes — Page 2 of 5
150: The Gentle Art of Homeschooling: The Essential Tools of a Charlotte Mason Education {Best of HSHW}
What if your homeschool didn’t feel like a checklist, but a life-giving journey? In this Best of Homeschool Super Heroes Workshop episode, Julie Ross shares the tools of a Charlotte Mason education and how they can bring peace, beauty, and connection to your home.You’ll learn how to apply these tools—atmosphere, discipline, and life—in a way that nourishes both your children and yourself. This gentle philosophy isn’t about replicating school at home; it’s about building something far more meaningful.Here’s what you’ll take away:✅ What it really means to create a homeschool “atmosphere”✅ How habits form the foundation of discipline (without nagging)✅ Why ideas are the most powerful food for the mind✅ How to foster solitude, attention, and curiosity✅ The secret to cultivating beauty and truth in your home🎯 Grab your FREE Pass to Homeschool Super Heroes. You’ll be inspired by 30+ veteran homeschoolers.
149: Most Important Subject to Teach Your Children {Best of HSHW}
In this Best of Homeschool Super Heroes episode, Rachael Carman brings clarity to what matters most in your homeschool. After 26 years of homeschooling her seven kids, she shares why the most important subject to teach your children isn’t academic—it’s spiritual.This episode will encourage and equip you to make the Bible the foundation of your homeschool. Rachael’s wisdom is practical, powerful, and deeply rooted in God’s truth.You’ll learn:✅ What happens when you put the Bible at the center of your day✅ How to make worship and Scripture study a natural part of homeschooling✅ Why your kids need heart-shaping more than head knowledge✅ Tips to grow in your own walk with God as you lead your children✅ What to do when you feel discouraged or spiritually dry🎯 Grab your FREE Pass to Homeschool Super Heroes. You’ll be inspired by 30+ veteran homeschoolers.
148: 5 Tips to Make Any Homeschool Curriculum Work For You {Best of HSHW}
With 20+ years of experience, Jen Merckling, shows you how to make any homeschool curriculum work—even if it's not the "perfect" fit. These 5 tips will help you feel confident, supported, and ready for a school year full of peace and growth.You’ll learn:✅Why modeling matters more than early independence✅How to pause and repeat without falling “behind”✅What to do when grade levels don’t match your child’s progress✅The truth about short lessons and how they help with consistency✅When and how to cut assignments and still count it as a win🎯 Grab your FREE Pass to Homeschool Super Heroes. You’ll be inspired by 30+ veteran homeschoolers.
146: Homeschool Freedom Under Fire—and What You Can Do About It
There’s a lot we take for granted when it comes to homeschooling—especially our freedoms. In today’s conversation, you’ll hear how homeschool freedom is under threat in places you might not expect... and how one nonprofit is working to protect it.From museum tours to national advocacy, Steven Policastro shares how God is using their work to equip homeschool leaders in 130+ nations. You’ll be inspired to pray, take action, and help families around the globe.The surprising truth about where homeschool is illegal✅Why parental rights and Christian education go hand-in-hand✅How global leaders are uniting to defend freedom✅2 creative ways your family can support the mission✅How to turn this into a meaningful homeschool project🎯 Grab the free resource mentioned in the episode to get started!Homeschool Super Heroes Week FREE Pass - includes Prayer - Letter Writing BookSteven Policastro is the founder and director of the International Association for Creation, a global Christian 501(c)3 ministry dedicated to bringing quality Christ-centered education to the nations. He leads a team from around the world that is dedicated to amplifying learning from a biblical worldview, increasing access to homeschooling, and protecting parental rights throughout Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. In 2020, in partnership with the national Christian homeschool leadership and the Ministry of Sports & Culture, the team initiated and drafted public policy that legalized homeschooling in Bolivia.Today, he leads his team in:1. Scaling success by equipping experienced community leaders across Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific with the tools necessary to provide sustainable, local solutions for students, parents, and teachers.2. Facilitating high-level government discussions regarding the formation of education freedom zones in Mongolia.3. Establishing a national education framework for the Ministry of Education in South Sudan.4. Brokering refugee resettlement talks between national homeschool leaders in France and their European Union counterparts who are engaged in the current conflict over parental rights.Steven has presented to and engaged in dialogue with top world leaders, including government officials and Ph.Ds. in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, leading his team in facilitating ground-breaking diplomatic discussion on education reform that is qualitatively and quantitatively transforming nations. His efforts have opened access to critical infrastructure and opportunities for millions of individuals to continue to benefit from strategies that are amplifying learning, increasing access, and protecting rights in over one-hundred nations. He is a media spokesman in various areas of expertise, from education reform to transformative peace processes.Want to make a difference for homeschool families around the world?Visit associationforcreation.org to learn how you can:Discover the real challenges families face homeschooling across the globeEncourage a homeschool family overseas with a personal notePray intentionally for those facing oppositionShow Notes:Fighting for Homeschool Freedom Around the World with Steven PolicastroWhat Steven's Organization DoesKerry: Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with homeschool superheroes and homeschool coffee break. We're sort of doing a little joint thing. And this is going to be a podcast on my homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm. So you can have a nice little coffee break. And today we are meeting and visiting with Steven Policastro, who is our title partner, and we are partnering with him and his nonprofit and making a donation to his organization. So welcome, Steven, so glad that you're here.Steven: Thank you so much for having me, Kerry. It's good to be with you again.Kerry: Very good. We've been partnering. I don't know 4 or 5 years, but I love partnering because I learned so much about what's going on around the world the way that God's working with Christian education and homeschooling. And we're going to talk about that. But Stephen runs a nonprofit that helps homeschoolers. Homeschooling be legal, or, you know, works in governments and that kind of thing, but also Christian education. Can you tell people just a little bit about how this all came to be, and what y'all do.Steven: Yeah. So I'm the founder and director of International Association for Creation, and our mission is to make Christian education possible everywhere. And we do that through several different means, primarily through training Christians to give Biblical worldview tours of secular museums and then also training national Christian homeschool leaders to be able to advocate for parental rights and the autonomy of Christian education in their nations from their context.How the Ministry StartedSteven: And the way that we got involved in both of these is, I initially began the ministry to support local Biblical worldview pro
144: How to Talk to Kids About the Life of a Christian Martyr
As we approach the Day of the Christian Martyr on June 29, 2025, talking to kids about difficult topics like persecution or the life of a Christian martyr isn't easy—but it's important. In this episode, Kerry sits down with homeschool curriculum author Bonnie Rose Hudson to discuss how to introduce these powerful stories to children in a way that honors truth, age-appropriateness, and their emotional makeup.From personal stories to practical examples, you'll discover ways to guide your kids in understanding faith under fire. Bonnie also shares encouragement for parents and non-parents alike who want to support the global Church and disciple the next generation with bold, faith-filled examples.In this episode, you'll learn:✅How to gauge what details kids can emotionally handle✅Tips for weaving Christian martyr stories into Bible, history, or reading lessons✅Where to find trustworthy, age-appropriate resources✅What to say when your kids ask "Why would God allow this?"✅Encouragement for moms and dads who want their kids to live boldly for Christ✅Special insights on observing the Day of the Christian Martyr with your family🎯 Grab the resource mentioned in the podcast so you can start these conversations in your home today—especially as we prepare to honor the memory of those who gave their lives for faith this June 29th!Resources MentionedDay of the Christian Martyr Free Digital Resources: Show Notes:Kerry: We are talking about the persecuted church and wait, first of all, let's talk about what that is, and then we're going to talk about maybe integrating that into your homeschool, and maybe why and how those kind of things. But before we dive into this topic, Bonnie, could you just tell people a little bit about yourself.Bonnie Rose: Sure, I'm Bonnie Rose Hudson. I run write bonnierose.com. I have a lot of different subject areas for most ages. You will not find, ever find high school math on my site. I'm sorry. That's just not my thing, but I have a lot of history, science, Bible, language arts, geography, a lot of things like I said, quite a few different topics for most ages. Some of the material is a full year curriculum, others is supplemental. I do a lot of freebies every year. So if you sign up for my newsletter, you can get a freebie, usually on average, every 2 weeks, sometimes more often than that, and I just enjoy making resources as fun and affordable and easy to use as I can.Personal Journey to the Persecuted ChurchKerry: I know I've seen a lot of them. It's been a few years since I've actually reviewed them, but I continue to see so much, and she really does have a wide range, and so wide that here we are talking about the persecuted church. So just out of curiosity, what drew you to learn more about this area?Bonnie Rose: Well, I've had an interest ever since I was young. I heard stories growing up, but I kind of I think I tended to compartmentalize it. I thought it only happened, maybe in China or, you know, maybe someplace deep in Africa. And one year over Easter, I started reading some of the stories about people dealing with persecution from different ministry newsletters, and such, and it just really started to grow into a burden on my heart. And I wanted to share what I was reading about with the kids that I was writing for in a way that was age appropriate and sensitive because so much of almost all of the media that I was consuming was targeted directly for adults, and it just included more information than you want to share with your 8 year old, for instance.The Scope of Christian Persecution TodayKerry: That's so interesting. And you know, I actually get a magazine called Voice of the Martyrs. And so it's very interesting. I've read some of their books, and we may even talk about some of those people, but I mean, those are current events, too. But yet it isn't always something that's appropriate for kids. So how widespread really is persecution for Christians today?Bonnie Rose: Well, according to Open Doors, in the last 30 years the number of countries where Christians are suffering high or extreme levels of persecution has almost doubled. There are at least 76 countries, and those are countries where it goes beyond harassment or inconveniences. This is full persecution. And it's because of some of the digital technology advancements, facial recognition, it's getting even harder and harder and harder for the underground church to operate, and for believers, especially from certain other religious backgrounds, to meet, to grow, to access the information that they need. On average, one in every 7 Christians in the world are currently facing persecution. That number increases to one in 5 in Africa and 2 in 5 Christians in Asia. The Joshua Project says between 65% and 70% of the world's population live in a country that's considered religiously restrictive. So it really is in every corner of the globe on every continent, in some or almost every continent, in some form or another.Understan
143: Why Nature Walks Belong in Your Homeschool
If you’ve ever wondered how to slow down and connect while still “doing school,” this episode is for you. Today, I’m sharing how a simple walk with my granddaughter — and her obsession with roly-polies — reminded me why nature walks are a powerful tool in your homeschool. You’ll discover how even 15 minutes outside can spark curiosity, lead to deeper relationships, and provide rich educational experiences — without the need for worksheets or screens.We’ll cover:✅How to make nature walks meaningful (without being a science expert)✅Simple tools you can bring along for learning on the go✅Academic subjects that connect with nature walks✅How walking together builds family connection✅A simple way to turn every walk into a moment of gratitudeResources MentionedFree Nature JournalHandbook of Nature StudyChristian Liberty Nature ReadersUsborne First Book of NatureShow Notes:Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can take a coffee break. I think I'll take one right now. Today we are talking about why nature walks belong in your homeschool, even if you're not an outdoorsy person. Before we dive into this, I would love for you to subscribe to this channel if you haven't already done so, or if you can leave a comment or a 5 Star Review. That would be awesome. And you may have a home school friend, just one home school friend that you could share this with, because we're recording this. It's summertime. It's a great time to be outdoors and do this.The Roly-Poly StoryIn fact, I'll just start. This episode was inspired by something that I did with my 8 year old granddaughter last week. She wanted to go on walks now. I'd get up early and go on my own sort of prayer, walk and fast walk, get some exercise in. But she wanted to go on walk, and on Friday, the last day we got out there, and she found a roly-poly on the sidewalk, and it was the first one. And it you know, those little ones say they roll up into a little ball. I mean she was talking to it somehow it fell off, and then she found another one, and we were walking down the sidewalk to get to the path, and there's a big stone wall, and there were roly-polies everywhere.I'm telling you we went on a 15 or 20 minute walk, and I think she talked to these roly polys the entire way, and they would be crawling, and she's like, "Oh, you don't like this hand. You like this hand. They don't ever want to go into this hand," and just went on and on they fall off, and then she'd have to get another one. The last one she actually carried pretty far all the way back to that stone wall, because she wanted to leave this roly-poly near his friends, so he would have some friends.Why This Story MattersNow, why do I share that story? I was like it reminded me so much of some of the things that we did with our kids out in nature, whether it's a nature walk, or just going out and looking, maybe even at the stars at nighttime. But she loved going on a walk. This was not a fast walk. This was a slow walk we talked, we visited, and I saw wonder, curiosity, and learning. And that does not come from a book or a worksheet.So nature walks are just such a simple, beautiful, powerful tool for your homeschool. And you can use it with all different ages, all at the same time as well.Why Nature Walks Are So ValuableWhy are they so valuable? Well, with your kids, they're going to help your kids slow down and observe. You know, you might go to a park, you know we've got a park over here, and you can wander through this trail, and there's brush everywhere, and you'll see all different kinds of leaves and plants. And actually, a few years ago, the girl, my 8 year old, her sister. They were both with me, and we're going down there, and the next day I find out she got a tick, and I was like, well, she's the only one that climbed a tree while we were out there, and so, but they slow down and they start to notice things.You can they can ask questions and maybe spark curiosity. I really had every intention of going back here and doing a little research with her about roly-polies and then rolling up, and then, when we got home, we had to get ready to take her to the doctor, and things sort of got busy. With your kids also, this can build a lifelong love of God's creation. God is the great Creator. So let them be out in that.Benefits for MomWith moms, you, mom, it'll help you get out of the house. It can refresh you mentally and emotionally. I think fresh air does wonders. I mean, sometimes I go on walks every day pretty much, but sometimes I just want to pray, and I go out. I've got a little circle drive, and I just walk back and forth 2 or 3 times, just going outside can refresh you. I remember when I did have Covid several years ago. I didn't feel good for about a couple days, but the one thing I did do is I went outside and walked up and down the driveway because fresh air and sunshine does something for you.This also gives you a chance to bond w
142: How to Make Summer Learning Fun with Zero Curriculum
Need some fresh ideas to keep your kids learning this summer—without pulling out the curriculum bins? Whether you're a year-round homeschooler or ready for a much-needed break, there are simple, creative ways to make summer learning fun, meaningful, and totally stress-free.From read-alouds to banana caterpillars, this episode is packed with tips that encourage curiosity, build character, and keep everyone engaged (without screens!). We’re talking:✅How to build a summer reading rhythm the whole family loves✅Why boredom is actually good for your kids (really!)✅Tips to combat negative attitudes with God's Word✅Fun weekly learning ideas with zero worksheets✅How to set family reading goals with big rewardsGrab Read Aloud Book List mentioned in this episode to make your summer easier and more fun!Resources Mentioned:Read Aloud Book List Cell Pizza Oreo Moon PhasesSummer Science Experiments
141: Being Thankful for What You Have: How Gratitude Changes Everything
Feeling overwhelmed by grumbling kids, comparison, or stress in your homeschool? In this episode, we talk about the power of being thankful for what you have—even in hard seasons—and how it can transform your heart, your home, and your family.You’ll hear personal stories, powerful Scripture, and practical steps you can take to build a daily gratitude habit. This episode will help you fight overwhelm and experience the joy that comes when you shift from complaining to contentment.✅Learn the science-backed benefits of gratitude✅Hear how Kerry's 10,000 gratitude journal entries shaped her mindset✅Get 3 simple tips for creating a family gratitude habit✅Discover practical ways to help your kids choose gratitude over grumbling✅Be encouraged with real-life stories of thankfulness in hard seasons📥 Grab the resource mentioned in the podcast—link is in the show notes!Resources Mentioned: Give Thanks Tool Kit30 Day Gratitude ChallengeGratitude Journal for Kids Show Notes:Hey, everyone, Kerry, Beck here with homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can actually take a coffee break. No coffee with me. I'm actually recording this in the afternoon. Haven't had coffee for a few hours, but I want to help you take a break, slow down and pause. And today's episode is so good and so helpful to you, I can, I promise you, if you put these things into practice, it will change the way you think, the way your mind works, and even help with your kids as well. We are talking about moving from complaining to being thankful, building a gratitude habit in your homeschool, in your family, in your home as well.Why does this episode matter so much? Let me just tell you. Actually, I think I wrote this down today. You'll be getting this in a few weeks. But I wrote this down today. I was sort of pondering what to do. But I've been keeping a gratitude journal since 2010. That's almost 15 years, and the first 2 or 3 years I wrote down 3 things but I discipline religiously every single day, and every year I did that I added a thousand things. Then I became a little less structured, but I still kept a gratitude journal throughout the year. I may not have done it every year, and sometimes, like here, you can see I sort of color coded. There you go. That's more than 3 things here. That's more than 3 things. So it just depended on the day there's 3 right there. But today, on May 27th 2025, I entered number 10,000. Can you see that? 10,000 right there?And I'll just, I was a little skeptical last week. I was like, I don't want to write anything down. I want 10,000 to be something really great. But then this one I was like, just write what you're thinking about Kerry. So 9,999 were friends that had been praying for me, especially a few weeks ago, when my son got married, and there's just a little tension and everything. But I knew everything would be great, and we would have great joy because they were supporting me in prayer, but 10,000 number 10,000 I didn't really think about this morning, and I just wrote down my kids, faith in God and their protection of me. My kids have just been so supportive of me over the last several years, and that makes me feel good. I'm not. I wasn't trying to make that number 10,000. But that's just really what came to mind.So that is what we're talking about. We're talking about gratitude and the power of gratitude in good times and in bad times, before we dive into that. If you have not subscribed to our channel, then I would strongly recommend that you do that. It will help us get this message out to more and more people, and don't more of us want our kids to go from complaining to gratitude. Don't we want to have victory through the gratitude? Don't we want to have joy through gratitude? I'm going to talk all about that today. So share this, find one person, you could click that, share button and share it with someone today.So the power of gratitude and hard seasons. Now, I don't know if you know me very well, but I will tell you. For the past 9 years it's been a struggle for me. I've been lonely at times. I have felt rejection. I've had lots of financial struggle in and out. I've had lots of grief, both death, rejection, abandonment, and betrayal, and it's hard. About 5 years ago, I want to say, 5 or 6 years ago I had one of the hardest thanksgivings. Thanksgiving seemed to have been really hard in the last 9 years, but God showed up. I had an explosion at the dinner table in my own parents. It was pretty embarrassing, and my own parents house, and about 2 or 3 days later I had to say, Okay, God, I need to apologize, and I went from negativity to joy and peace in my life, and some of that was thankfulness to God that he is working in me, and he is helping me get past all these hardships.I will tell you that faith is not about the absence of hardship. It's about how we trust God in the middle of all of it, and one of the ways we can show our trust is through gratitude. Being thankful is not
140: Overwhelmed No More: Where to Start Homeschooling with Confidence
If you're wondering where to start homeschooling, the answer may surprise you—look in the mirror. In this episode, we talk about why your own education as a mom is the first and most important step in your homeschool journey. Education and leadership don’t begin with lesson plans—they begin with you.You'll hear why your kids will follow your lead more than your curriculum, and how a simple growth routine can shape your homeschool for the better. Whether you're a new homeschool mom or simply looking to refresh your perspective, this episode will help you take a powerful first step.Here’s what we cover:✅Why Charlotte Mason said, “There is no education but self-education”✅The simple 3-step plan Kerry used for personal growth ✅How to model a love of reading and lifelong learning for your kids ✅How reading, journaling, and sharing weekly simplifies your homeschool and gives YOU freedom to study what is important to your family ✅Why summer is the perfect time to start your growth habit👉 Grab the free resource mentioned in the podcast to kickstart your own growth routine and lead with confidence!From Overwhelmed Mom to Confident Mentor (use code: CONFIDENT10 to SAVE $10 & come free)4 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders in Your Homeschool (FREE Limited Time Replay)Show Notes Hey everyone, welcome back to Homeschool Coffee Break, where we are pouring you a fresh cup of encouragement for moms who are raising the next generation of Christian leaders. I'm your host, Kerry Beck, and today we're diving into a powerful truth: education starts with you, Mom.Leadership starts with you, Mom. Yes, you—not your curriculum, not the perfect schedule—you. Your habits, your mindset, your faith.I want to unpack this through this episode as well. But before I do, I just would love to encourage you to click the subscribe button so that we can get this out to more and more people, and more and more moms like you can get the encouragement, simplify their life, and get rid of the overwhelm. Stop the overwhelm so you can take a coffee break.All right. Let's start with Charlotte Mason. She says, "There is no education but self-education." What does that mean? True education is not external—memorizing a bunch of facts, saying, "I finished this book or this curriculum." It is all about internal. Real education is taking ownership, having that desire. You can't really even make your kids be educated because it has to be something from within them. And that is the same with you.You know, kids don't become leaders, they don't become educated from tests. They grow in their education by watching and imitating real life. That's you. They grow in ownership and leadership skills by watching you and imitating real life.So you cannot force education, but you can lead by example. And that's what it's all about. You need to lead by example. You need to take ownership of your own education, and then your kids will see what's going on.My kids never doubted that I love to read. Now I will tell you, when they were little, maybe they did, because I'd fall asleep at night. I tried to read at night in bed, and, you know, I'd just fall asleep with the book on my chest. I was tired all the time. But as we got out of those little kid stages, I read. I still read voraciously. I read all the time.And I'm watching my—especially my girls right now, because they've got kids at home—they are reading. They're actually reading instead of turning on that TV. That is a mom. They are modeling and mentoring a love for reading.I am thankful that all four of my grandkids—we don't know about Sloane, Sloane's only four months old—but all of them, even my grandson that goes 90 to nothing—he is all out boy—"Gigi, will you read a book?" Or I walked in last week on Monday night, I was up there, and he was sitting in his dad's lap, listening just still as could be, listening to him read that book.There is something special building relationships, but also you are modeling and mentoring for your kids the importance of reading, the importance of learning. And that is really a basis for moving forward to be a good leader.Let me just say, when I say leadership, some people get confused, and they're like, "My kid's not going to be CEO or Mayor or whatever." No. Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less. And you are a leader to your family. You are influencing. Your kids more than likely will grow up and have a family, and they will need to be able to lead and influence well.You know, I do a class. And I did one recently—"4 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders"—and this is really Step 4. It is you, Mom. You go first.And this is being published right before summertime. I don't know when you're listening to it, but this is being published right before summertime. It is a great time to take a step back and really work on your own education, growing yourself.So let's talk about a very simple growth routine for you. This is something I was able to do even when my kids were at home,
139: Independent Learning: Stop Overwhelm, Start Ownership
What’s the #1 thing you can do to raise confident Christian leaders? Teach your kids to own their education. Independent learning isn’t just a homeschool perk—it’s a leadership training ground.In this episode, we explore how independent learning shapes responsible, motivated, Christ-centered leaders. You’ll hear stories, examples, and practical steps you can start using today. ✅Why independent learning builds leadership and responsibility ✅What Charlotte Mason and Benjamin Franklin can teach us about self-motivated kids ✅The shift from teacher to coach—and how it sets your kids free ✅Practical ways to build ownership in your homeschool ✅How real work and self-direction grow lifelong learners🎁 Grab my free masterclass, 4 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders in Your Homeschool! Resources Mentioned:4 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders in Your Homeschool!
138: How to Be a Lifelong Learner: Simple Shifts That Make a Big Impact
When life is busy and homeschooling feels overwhelming, it’s easy to fall back on textbooks just to get through the day. But if you’re ready for a more meaningful approach, this episode will show you how to be a lifelong learner—and raise kids who love learning too.We’re breaking down the mindset shifts and practical steps that help you get off the educational conveyor belt and spark curiosity, creativity, and deep thinking in your homeschool.✅The real reason textbooks feel safe—and what to use instead✅How curiosity fuels lasting learning far beyond any test✅Easy ways to integrate your child’s interests into daily lessons✅The 4-step method to develop real-world learners and leaders✅Why boredom might be the best gift you can give your kidsGrab the free class mentioned in the episode to go even deeper!Resources Mentioned:Homeschool Freedom Bootcamp - May 13-234 Steps to Raising Christian Leaders in Your Homeschool (FREE Masterclass)Want help starting these conversations? Grab my free 3-Step Chart to Develop Critical Thinking Skills.Use Read Aloud Book List for suggested readings
137: Want to Raise Wise Kids? Start with How to Make Good Choices
Every day, your kids face choices—from what to eat for lunch to how to treat others. And as homeschool moms, we want to raise children who make wise, godly decisions… but how do we actually teach them how to make good choices?In this episode, we talk about how to help your kids develop discernment, wisdom, and decision-making skills through stories, conversations, and daily life moments rooted in Biblical truth.✅Why wisdom matters more than knowledge alone✅ A simple, homeschool-friendly way to teach discernment✅What King Solomon can teach your kids about making wise decisions✅ How to create a “wisdom culture” in your family🎁 It’s time to sign up for the Homeschool Freedom Boot Camp right here - Resources Mentioned:Homeschool Freedom BootcampFREE 3-Step Critical Thinking ChartFREE Read-Aloud Book List
136: How Curiosity Learning Builds Confident, Self-Motivated Kids
What if you didn’t have to force your kids through every lesson? What if they actually wanted to learn? That’s the power of curiosity learning—and in this episode, we’re talking about how to go from forced lessons to self-motivated learning.You’ll hear simple mindset shifts and practical tips to create an environment where your kids want to explore, ask questions, and dive deep into what fascinates them. Yes, it really is possible! ✅How to follow your kids’ interests without losing structure ✅Real-life examples of how to spark motivation using everyday tools ✅Why curiosity is hardwired into your kids—and how to nurture it ✅The problem with rigid curriculum and checklist-style learning ✅What Albert Einstein’s childhood can teach us about homeschooling🎁 Grab your free read-aloud book list to help spark curiosity in your homeschool! Resources Mentioned:FREE Read Aloud Book ListShow Notes:Hey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the overwhelm and actually take a coffee break.Today we're talking about a big question: How do we raise kids who are self-motivated? I know some of you are thinking, "That’s impossible!" but I want to share how we can move from forced lessons to natural curiosity and interest. If you've ever felt like you're dragging your kids through every lesson or hearing constant complaints, we're going to talk about practical strategies that actually inspire them to want to learn.You don't need to push them harder; you need to ignite them. And some of the mindset shift has to happen in us, not just our kids.Why Motivation MattersMotivated, self-driven learners are naturally curious. God wired our kids to want to learn. Why do three- and four-year-olds constantly ask "Why?" Because everything is new to them. But traditional lessons, rigid schedules, and comparison to "normal" kids often squash that natural spark.In Proverbs 25:2, it says, "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings." And Proverbs 18:15 says, "The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out." We want our kids seeking, discovering, and engaging—not just checking off boxes.Even Albert Einstein struggled in traditional school but thrived when allowed to learn freely. His parents encouraged his interests—his father with a compass, his mother with music and books. Einstein credited curiosity as the foundation of his success. His mom believed in him and gave him freedom. Belief plus freedom equals self-motivation.Creating an Atmosphere of CuriosityHow do we create this kind of environment at home? Ditch the pressure. Fill your home with books, puzzles, maps, globes, art supplies, and nature materials. Our house had books in every room—yes, even the bathrooms!Say "yes" more often when your child shows interest, even if it’s not in your lesson plan. I shared the story of Hunter, who was supposed to write a five-paragraph essay on an emperor but got excited writing about Derek Jeter instead. That passion led us down an incredible learning rabbit trail, covering math, science, reading, and more.Let your kids follow their interests. Spark wonder. And leave room for boredom. Boredom leads to curiosity and creativity.Following Interests Instead of Just Giving InstructionsFocus on interests, not just instruction. Integrate passions into schoolwork. Math can happen with Legos. Writing can happen through comic strips. History can happen through stories.If you're not ready to completely let go of control, offer freedom within boundaries. Create a basket of books or a list of approved activities—then let your kids choose. When kids have ownership, learning becomes personal and meaningful.Use our "Read-Write-Discuss" method to dig deeper. Every day, read about a topic, write one page, and discuss it once a week. It’s simple but incredibly powerful for building critical thinking.Trust the Spark is Still ThereYou don’t have to bribe, beg, or battle your way through homeschooling. First, change your own mindset: believe that any topic can be educational. Then trust your kids to wonder, explore, and create.Invite curiosity. Celebrate progress. Trust that the spark God placed in your child is still there—maybe it just needs a little time and space to come back to life.You don't have to entertain your kids or control every minute. You just need to open the door to learning.Ready to Start?If you're ready to nurture curiosity in your homeschool, grab my free Read-Aloud Book List! It's full of ideas to spark wonder and help your kids fall in love with learning again.Thanks for joining me. I’m Kerry Beck with Homeschool Coffee Break. We'll talk again next time!
135: Homeschool Burnout Is Real—Here's How to Overcome It
Homeschool burnout is real—and if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, or just plain exhausted, this episode is for you. You don’t need a rigid schedule or a packed curriculum to be a “good homeschooler.” You need peace, purpose, and a plan that fits your family.Let’s talk about how to simplify your homeschool, focus on relationships, and stop chasing perfection. These mindset shifts and practical tips will help you prevent burnout and enjoy the journey again. ✅ Why homeschool burnout happens (and how to recognize it) ✅ Simple shifts that bring peace to your homeschool days ✅ The power of rhythms vs. rigid schedules ✅ How to focus on relationships over checklists ✅ Real examples from Charlotte Mason, Finland, and more🎁 Grab my free 3-day video course: How to Simplify Your Homeschool to start fresh with intention and joy!Show Notes:Hey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can actually take a coffee break.Let’s talk about something I know most of us feel by the end of the school year: burnout. How do we homeschool without burnout? How do we simplify our homeschool so we can enjoy the journey?If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stretched thin, like you're drowning in lesson plans, laundry, cooking, chauffeuring, and expectations—you are not alone. Burnout feels like constant pressure, guilt, exhaustion, and comparison. Which one do you feel the most?Burnout brings mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion. And that exhaustion steals our joy—joy from our family, our children, our homeschool. So let’s talk about why it happens and what we can do.Why Simplifying Makes All the DifferenceBurnout often happens because we try to do too much and expect perfection. You might be modeling your homeschool after public school and feeling defeated. Or maybe you’re chasing a “perfect homeschool” that doesn’t even exist.God calls us to faithfulness, not busyness. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”So what if we actually lived like that?Let’s go back to Charlotte Mason. She believed education should be life-giving, not an exhausting checklist. She encouraged short lessons, outdoor time, living books—not busy work. Education in her time was full of rote memorization and long hours at a desk, and she pushed back on that.And right now—if it's spring when you're listening—your kids should be outside half the time. It doesn’t need to be complicated.Focus on Relationships Over ChecklistsYou can simplify your life and homeschool by focusing on what matters most: relationships, character, a love of learning, and the tools of learning. Ask yourself, what do we really need to accomplish today? Not what’s on the lesson plan—but what’s essential?Sometimes the right answer is to skip the science experiment and read on the couch with your child who’s having a tough day. That connection lasts longer than any worksheet ever will.I love looking at history for encouragement. Abraham Lincoln had less than a year of formal education, but he read the Bible, Aesop’s Fables, and classics. On his own. No checklist. No pressure. And he became one of the most influential leaders in history.Less Is More: What We Can Learn from FinlandFinland ranks among the top education systems in the world. They focus on fewer subjects, more depth, shorter school days, no homework for younger kids, and tons of play—especially outside.Less is more. In the early years, focus on language arts, reading, writing, and stories. History is a great fit, too. Then when they’re older and thinking abstractly, that’s when you layer in math, science, logic.Make your days shorter. We homeschooled from breakfast to lunch. That was it. And if it didn’t get done, it didn’t get done.Simplify Your Schedule and CurriculumChoose fewer, richer subjects. Focus on what’s essential. Pursue your child’s interests.We didn’t use a formal science curriculum in elementary. We picked a topic, went to the library, read about it, and did activities. Art and music were once a week. When your kids reach junior high or high school, then you start preparing for college—or a tech school or even a small business.Another idea to simplify . . . Combine your kids whenever you can. We had one hour in the morning—our family time. We did Bible devotions at breakfast. Then during that hour, we had art appreciation, hymn singing, poetry reading, citizenship, Bible study, and a 30-minute read-aloud. Everyone together.Limit outside activities. One year, I was driving one daughter from one activity straight to the next. We decided to stop. They could choose two outside activities per year—and that was it.Routines That Restore PeaceBuild rhythms instead of rigid schedules. We had a general flow to our day, not a strict timeline. Breakfast with devotions, piano practice, songs, family time, and individual work from around 9:00 to 12:00. Lunch, th
134: The Best Easter Day Activities to Focus on Jesus
Want to make Easter day the most joyful, faith-filled celebration of the year? In this episode, we’re sharing simple ways to start & finish the day focused on Jesus—without adding stress to your day. ✅ Start with Sunrise Worship – Ideas for family prayer, praise, and Scripture reading. ✅ Resurrection Breakfast – Fun, hands-on ways to connect faith and food. ✅ Jesus-Centered Easter Traditions – Balancing egg hunts with a resurrection focus. ✅ A Simple Easter Challenge – Encourage kids to share the Gospel!🌟 Bonus: Download my free Holy Week Bible Reading Plan🎧 Tune in and make this Easter morning unforgettable!Resources Mentioned:Free Holy Week Bible Reading PlanShow Notes:Hey, everyone! Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can actually take a coffee break.We are wrapping up our Easter series—though we might have one more episode next week! We've covered so much already: how moms can prepare their hearts for Easter, hands-on Holy Week activities, and even ways to integrate Easter into your homeschool while developing critical thinking skills. Today, we’re focusing on the greatest day on the calendar—Resurrection Sunday! Jesus conquered death, sin, and evil, and we should be celebrating! In this episode, I’ll share some simple, meaningful Easter activities for families.Before we dive in, I’d love for you to subscribe to this podcast. That way, more families can hear these ideas and be encouraged to keep their focus on Jesus. If this episode blesses you, share it with a friend!Start with Sunrise WorshipLet’s start at the beginning of the day—before the sun even rises! The women found the empty tomb at dawn, and starting Easter morning with worship sets the tone. That’s in Matthew 28.Here are a few ideas for a simple family sunrise worship time:Step outside, watch the sunrise, and read the Resurrection story together.Play or sing worship songs like Christ the Lord Is Risen Today. It’s such a beautiful and upbeat song! I’ll put a link in the show notes.Say a family prayer of thanksgiving for Jesus’ victory over sin and death.If your community has a sunrise service, consider attending as a family!Resurrection BreakfastA special Easter breakfast is a great way to reinforce the meaning of the day. If your kids love food like mine did, this is a great time to engage them in conversation about Jesus’ resurrection.Some fun Easter-themed breakfast ideas:Resurrection Rolls – A marshmallow disappears inside a crescent roll, symbolizing the empty tomb.Empty Tomb Pancakes – Cut a hole in the middle of a pancake to represent the stone being rolled away.Cross-Shaped Toast or Fruit Arrangements – A visual reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and victory.Read Luke 24:1-6 while you eat to reflect on the resurrection story.Jesus-Centered Easter TraditionsWe all love fun Easter traditions, but let’s make sure they’re pointing our kids to Jesus! Here are a few ways to balance faith and fun:Resurrection Egg Hunt – Hide plastic eggs with Bible verses about the resurrection inside. You can add candy too!He Is Risen Call & Response – Teach kids the traditional Easter greeting:Parent: “He is risen!”Kids: “He is risen indeed!”Family Easter Banner – Create a banner that says “Jesus Lives!” and decorate it together.Acts of Kindness Basket – Instead of just candy, include cards with ways to bless others in Jesus’ name.A Simple Easter Challenge: Share the Gospel!Easter is all about celebrating the Good News, so why not encourage your kids to share it?Call or text a friend or family member and say, “Happy Easter! Did you know Jesus is alive?”Draw or write a Resurrection card to give to a neighbor.Teach your kids a simple way to explain the Gospel: Jesus died, was buried, and rose again so we can have eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).Ask each child, “Who can you share this with today?”Easter morning should be joyful, meaningful, and centered on Jesus. Here’s a quick recap: ✅ Start with worship ✅ Enjoy a Resurrection Breakfast ✅ Create Christ-centered traditions ✅ Challenge your kids to share the GospelEaster is the greatest celebration because it reminds us of the greatest victory—Jesus’ resurrection!If you need help with Holy Week activities, grab my free Holy Week Bible Reading Plan. It will guide your family through Scripture each day. Plus, I also have a free class, 3 Steps to Prepare Your Heart for Easter. You can sign up using the link in the show notes.I hope this episode encourages you and gives you practical ways to focus on Jesus this Easter! If it was helpful, share it with a friend who wants to keep their family’s heart on Christ this season.See you next time!
133: Easter Homeschool Activities: Bring the Easter Story to Life
Are you looking for simple, hands-on ways to teach your kids about Holy Week?As busy moms, we want Easter to be meaningful, but finding engaging, faith-filled activities can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve gathered simple, hands-on ideas to bring the Easter story to life in your homeschool! Your kids will love these Easter homeschool activities.✅ Read as a Family Daily – Use the easiest tool in your homeschool tool belt to inspire your kids’ faith in Jesus✅ Discussion Questions That Spark Faith – Open-ended prompts to help kids process Jesus’ sacrifice.✅ Hands-On Easter Crafts – Create cross crafts, a resurrection garden, or Stations of the Cross.🎉 Bonus: Download my free Holy Week Bible Reading Plan to guide your family through Easter. Plus, sign up for my free class, "3 Steps to Prepare Your Heart for Easter!"🙏 If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and share with a friend who needs encouragement this Easter season!Show Notes:Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the overwhelm so you can take a coffee break.We are talking about Easter, Holy Week, and Lent. How can we really keep our focus on Jesus instead of all the extra things, all the busyness? Let’s face it. The struggle is real. We know that you are busy, and sometimes it’s too hard, and you don’t have time to go researching all these fun activities or ways to be intentional with your kids.That’s what we’re going to be talking about today. Easter and Holy Week homeschool activities. You could use these whether you're homeschooling or not. Some of them will be more specific to homeschooling because they include reading and writing, but all of them are designed to help kids engage with the Easter story.Read Aloud & Act It OutOne of the best things moms can do—homeschooling or not—is to raise their kids to think critically and biblically. We want them to be able to make wise decisions. If that’s a goal of yours, then using the weeks leading up to Easter as a time for reading, writing, and discussing can help develop those thinking skills.The first thing I encourage you to do is read aloud with your kids. Read stories about Easter. One of our favorites is Vinegar Boy, a historical fiction book about a little boy at the cross. You can also read different Bible passages about Holy Week.Here are some ideas:Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:1-11): Read aloud and let your kids wave paper palm branches, shouting "Hosanna!"Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20): Read and role-play Jesus breaking bread with His disciples. Use matzah bread and talk about its meaning.Crucifixion & Resurrection (Luke 23-24): Let kids act out the scene at the empty tomb. Have them imagine what it was like when Mary and her friends arrived.Reading aloud helps kids hear and remember the story. Always take time to discuss it afterward.Writing ActivitiesWriting reinforces what kids are learning. Depending on their age, you can try different writing activities:Copywork: Young kids can copy a short verse from the story.Narration: Middle-grade kids can orally retell the story before writing it down.Reading Journal: Older kids can keep a journal, reflecting on what they read and answering questions like:What does this passage teach us about Jesus?How did people respond to Jesus in this story?How does this story impact your faith?Writing helps kids process what they learn and develop their own thoughts about their faith.Discussion Questions That Spark FaithDiscussion leads to critical thinking. Talking about faith helps kids process what Jesus did for them. Try these questions:Why do you think Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem?How do you think the disciples felt at the Last Supper?What does it mean that Jesus died for us?How does the Resurrection give us hope today?One tip: Ask a question and then be quiet. Give your kids time to think before answering. If you jump in too soon, they’ll start relying on you for the answer instead of developing their own thoughts.Hands-On Easter CraftsCrafting makes faith tangible for kids. Here are some simple ideas:Cross Crafts: Use popsicle sticks or wood to create a cross and decorate it with meaningful words.Resurrection Garden: A small DIY garden with a tomb and a stone that can be rolled away.Stations of the Cross: Draw or craft each moment of Jesus’ journey to the cross.These activities reinforce the story in a way kids will remember.Why Easter Should Be a Bigger Deal Than ChristmasMany families go big for Christmas but celebrate Easter quietly. But Easter is the reason for our faith—Jesus' victory over sin and death! 1 Corinthians 15:17 reminds us of this truth.Consider making Easter the highlight of your family’s faith journey:Start new Easter traditions, like making an Easter garden every year.Use an Easter countdown like an Advent calendar for Christmas.Make Resurrection Sunday a joyful celebration with a feast!ConclusionRead it, write it, discuss it. Then, create it and celebrate it! Lent, Holy Week, and East
132: Hands-On Holy Week Activities: Easy Activities to Focus on Jesus!
Are you looking for simple, hands-on ways to teach your kids about Holy Week? As busy moms, we want to make Easter meaningful, but finding fun and faith-filled activities can be a challenge. That’s why I’ve gathered four easy Holy Week activities to help your family focus on Jesus from Palm Sunday to Resurrection Sunday!✅ Palm Sunday Parade – Make palm branches & shout "Hosanna!"✅ The Last Supper Meal – Take communion & talk about Jesus’ sacrifice.✅ The Darkness of Good Friday – A simple but powerful object lesson.✅ Resurrection Rolls Activity – A visual way to explain the empty tomb!🎉 Bonus: Download my free Holy Week Bible Reading Plan to guide your family through Easter. Plus, sign up for my free class: "3 Steps to Prepare Your Heart for Easter!"More "easy-to-use" Easter resources in our Skies of the Cross & Easter Prep Bundle Show Notes:Hands-On Holy Week Activities for Your FamilyHey everyone, Kerry Beck here with Homeschool Coffee Break, where we help you stop the overwhelm as a homeschooling mom so you can actually take a break. We’re in the middle of a series about preparing our hearts for Easter, and today, we’re talking about hands-on Holy Week activities you can do as a family.Let’s be honest, moms. The struggle is real. You are busy. It’s hard to find meaningful ways to teach your kids about Easter, and you don’t have to do it alone. Today, I’m sharing simple activities that will walk you through Holy Week, from Palm Sunday to Resurrection Sunday. You don’t have to do them all—just pick one or two that work for your family!Palm Sunday Parade at HomePalm Sunday is when Jesus made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, showing that He is our King! You can find this in Matthew 21. Here’s a simple activity to bring it to life for your kids:Make palm branches out of construction paper or cut down a small branch from outside and pretend it’s a palm branch.Have a parade! Let your kids shout “Hosanna! Hosanna!” as they lay down their coats or towels, just like the people did for Jesus.Read the Bible passage together as a family and talk about what it means to worship Jesus as King.Let your kids narrate the story back to you—either verbally or by writing it down.One of my grandkids, when she was about 2 or 3, knew the word “Hosanna” because we talked about it every year. Even the youngest kids can learn how to worship God!The Last Supper MealOn Thursday of Holy Week, Jesus shared a special meal with His disciples before the cross. This is found in Luke 22:14-20. You can bring this moment to life in a way that fits your family:Go all out and have a Passover meal with traditional elements, or keep it simple with bread and grape juice.Read the words Jesus spoke at the Last Supper and talk about how communion reminds us of His sacrifice.Ask your kids: “What does it mean that Jesus gave His body and blood for us?”As a homeschool activity, have your kids write a paragraph explaining the Lord’s Supper.You don’t have to make it complicated. A simple meal, some discussion, and reading Scripture together can make a huge impact!The Darkness of Good FridayGood Friday is one of the most important parts of the Easter story. You can read about it in Luke 23:44-46. Here are a few ways to make it tangible for your kids:Turn off all the lights in your living room to represent the darkness when Jesus died.Light a candle or flashlight to slowly bring back the light, showing how Jesus is the light of the world.Read the crucifixion story together and pause for reflection.Ask your kids: “Why did Jesus have to die?” and connect it to salvation.Let your kids explain the Gospel to a sibling, friend, or grandparent.You could even go deeper and talk about what was happening in the sky—there was darkness, an earthquake, and a blood moon. Watching a video about these events could make it even more real for your kids.Resurrection Rolls ActivityResurrection Sunday is my favorite! Jesus didn’t stay in the tomb—He is ALIVE! You can find this in Matthew 28:5-6. One of my family’s favorite traditions is making Resurrection Rolls the night before Easter:Take crescent roll dough and wrap it around a marshmallow.Roll it in melted butter and cinnamon sugar.Bake it, and when it’s done, the marshmallow has disappeared, leaving an empty roll!Use this as a visual lesson on the empty tomb and the joy of Jesus’ resurrection.This is one of the easiest, most hands-on ways to help kids understand the meaning of Easter. Plus, it’s a delicious breakfast!Holy Week Is About Walking with JesusYou don’t have to do all of these activities—just pick one that fits your family this year. Holy Week is about walking with Jesus together, not about perfection.If you’d like a free Holy Week Bible Reading Plan, I’ve got one for you! It will guide your family through Scripture readings each day. Plus, I also have a free class, “3 Steps to Prepare Your Heart for Easter.” You can sign up right here.I hope this encourages you and gives you practical ways to focu
131: How to Prepare Your Family for Easter (Even When You’re Busy!)
Does Easter sneak up on you every year? Between homeschooling, daily tasks, and family activities, it’s easy to feel too busy to slow down and focus on Jesus. But Easter is the greatest day of the year—and I don’t want you to miss it!In today’s episode, we’ll talk about: ✅ Why Easter is more than bunnies and eggs—it’s about Jesus’ victory over sin. ✅ How busyness can steal our joy and keep us distracted from Jesus. ✅ How to overcome that busyness and focus on what’s most important ✅ 3 simple ways to prepare your heart for Easter—even when life is chaotic.✨ Join me for this episode and discover how to refocus on Jesus this Easter!🎁 FREE GIFT: Sign up for my free class, "3 Steps to Prepare Your Heart for Easter," and start preparing your heart today! Show Notes:Hey, everyone, Kerry, back here with homeschool coffee break where we help you stop the overwhelm. So you can actually take a coffee break and still be homeschooling. Isn't that cool, hey? We are starting a brand new series. I think it's going to be about a 4 week series. On preparing your heart and home for Easter. Easter is a little bit later this year, and I really wanted to touch base on some ideas about Easter.You may be the kind of person that all of a sudden Easter sneaks up on you between homeschooling and chauffeuring and activities, daily life cleaning, cooking all those things. It's so easy to get caught up in the chaos and forget to slow down and focus on Jesus. This is an important time of year. Some of you might be following Lent and doing something for Lent, which is great. But a lot of people aren't necessarily taking this time, just like Advent before Christmas. Lent is a time for us to prepare our hearts for Easter. So I'm going to start today by sharing why, Easter is the greatest day of the year.How busyness can still our joy, and we don't even pay attention to what's about. Turn around with Easter, and then some simple ways that you could prepare your heart even in the middle of a busy season, and if you'll stick around with me to the end, I have a free class that I want to tell you all about, so let's get started before we do. I would love it if you would subscribe to this channel wherever you're listening to this that way we can get this out to more and more people.Hey? Why is Easter the greatest day of the year? Why am I even talking about this. We celebrate Christmas so much. I mean, they start putting Christmas stuff up in September or October. They spread that out forever, and I know some of you put your Christmas trees up in October or November. There's so much excitement about Christmas. But what about Easter?Easter is the day that changed everything. Jesus didn't just come as a baby like we celebrate at Christmas. He conquered sin and death.You know, in one Corinthians, 15 verses 17, through 20. Paul says, if Christ was not raised from the dead, our faith is meaningless. We're just fools. If we are believing this, if He did not really raise from the dead.You see, Easter or Resurrection Day. Well, isn't just about bunnies and eggs. Those might be fun. It is about the greatest victory in history to conquer death and sin forever and ever.You know. Imagine if we treated Easter with the same buildup as we would Christmas, how would that change your heart, your kids' hearts and your homes.Think about it.I know for us. We started taking Easter seriously when I was growing up. I don't even know that we celebrated or honored, not Palm Sunday, Good Friday, I mean, we had Good Friday off as a holiday, but I don't know that we did that much about it. And hopefully we raised our kids. I think we did, because I see them raising their kids to being honored these days before Easter before Resurrection Sunday.But you say yes, I agree with you, Kerry. It is so important.But I am so busy I don't know how to slow down.You see, the enemy. Satan does not want us to celebrate Easter. He wants us to just sort of be ambivalent towards it. He wants us to be focusing on all these activities and not what's on what's really important. Some of you might be saying to yourself, I better want to spend time in God's word, but I'm just exhausted. I get it. It's hard to get up in the morning, if that's what you plan to do. It's hard to stay awake and read your Bible at night if you're tired. Maybe you're thinking you plan to do all the Bible activities with your kids. But between homeschooling and chores and life, it just gets in the way, and I don't get anything done. And then you feel guilty because all of a sudden Easter weekend is here, and you haven't done anything special to prepare for it.Are any of those yours? Leave something. If you're listening where you can leave a comment, leave something there and let me know. You see, God is not looking for the pinterest, perfect Easter or Easter weekend or resurrection Day. He wants your heart.He wants your heart, he wants your kid's heart, and if you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. You don't have
130: Homeschool Art & Music: Essentials or Electives?
Are you ready to boost your homeschool art and music lessons? In this episode, we dive into fun, simple strategies to integrate music and art into your daily homeschool routine—no matter your child's age. Whether you're teaching littles, elementary, middle, or older kids, you'll find practical tips to get started without feeling intimidated.In this episode, you'll discover:✅How to stop being intimidated with music & art in your homeschool✅Simple tips to weave art and music into your existing lessons✅Fun activities to help your kids remember and memorize key concepts✅Where to find free demonstrations that make teaching music and homeschool art a breezeJoin us and transform your homeschool with engaging, hands-on ideas that will make your lessons come alive!Resources: Music & Art Homeschool SummitThe Composer DetectiveThe Artist DetectiveJustina Thurston of Jus’ Classical is the host of the Music & Art Homeschool Summit and Bundle. She is a musician, video and course creator, and songwriter. She has a degree in music therapy and has worked as an early childhood music teacher for over 20 years. At her church, she also helps with the music ministry, playing oboe in the orchestra, and teaching Sunday school to early elementary-aged children, using her Westminster Shorter Catechism songs. Justina is also a blessed wife and homeschooling mom of three.At Jus’ Classical, she seeks to encourage other homeschool moms and families, especially in focusing on Christ, and in enjoying classical music and great art through her courses, like The Composer Detective, a music appreciation course for families, The Artist Detective, an art appreciation course for families, Making Music with Handel, a music fundamentals and tin whistle course, and Drawing with Rembrandt, a beginning drawing course. She brings them all together for families to get both music and art in the Jus' Classical Fine Arts Membership.WebsiteYouTubeFacebookFacebook groupInstagramPinterest
129: Homeschool Success: The Mindset Shift You Need to Finish Strong
Homeschooling is more than just finishing lesson plans—it’s about shaping lifelong learners. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing enough?” or “Are my kids learning what they need?” this episode is for you. You’ll discover the mindset shift that will help you finish the homeschool year with confidence and purpose.I’ll share three key strategies to help you let go of stress and focus on what truly matters. Plus, don’t miss the free class at the end, designed to give you the tools for homeschool success with peace and success!In this episode, you’ll discover✅ Learn why shifting from productivity to purpose changes everything.✅ Discover how real books and meaningful conversations create deeper learning.✅ Find the secret to mentoring your kids, not just teaching them.✅ Get access to a free class to help you finish the homeschool year strong!Resources Mentioned3 Tips for Homeschooling Moms to Finish Strong this Year {FREE Class}
128: Kids in the Kitchen: 3 Steps to Building Confidence
We know our kids will continue having to eat every day of their lives, and we all want to raise independent adults. Come learn about the vast benefits your kids will experience when they learn to cook and get strategies to make it work in your busy life.From therapeutic creativity to the exposure bucket that banishes picky eating, from the biggest mistake parents make when bringing their kids in the kitchen to the 3-step superpower process to build skills safely, your parenting toolbox will be overflowing after this session.In this episode, discover✅ 3 steps to building confidence in the kitchen✅ Biggest mistake parents make when they bring their kids in the kitchen✅ 3 steps to build safety skills in the kitchen✅ How to use the exposure bucket to stop picky eatingDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
BONUS: Partner Spotlight: Unbound & the Life Skills Leadership Summit
We're excited to introduce our partner, Unbound BCS, and share their inspiring work in combating human trafficking. Join Kerry as she interviews Naomi Rijpstra, director of Unbound Now BCS, for a candid conversation that shows how trust and relationships pave the way for healing and safety. You’ll find out different types of trafficking and the 3 keys of Unbound’s mission.Don't miss this opportunity to learn about upcoming classes for parents and students and discover practical tools to keep your loved ones safe. Tune in and be part of a movement that empowers our community!In this episode, discover✅ Unbound’s Mission: Learn how Unbound Now is fighting human trafficking and supporting survivors.✅ Trust & Relationships: Discover why building strong bonds is key to healing.✅ Community Outreach: Get insights into their training and outreach programs.✅ Upcoming Classes: Find out about special sessions designed for parents and students at the Life Skills Leadership Summit (Feb 24-28, 2025).The Life Skills Leadership Summit is donating 5% of their profits to Unbound Now. When you upgrade to VIP, you are helping Unbound Now fight human trafficking. Some of our speakers are also donating 5% of their commissions, which I will also match another 5%.Upgrading to VIP is about more than lifetime access or the bundle. You’ll also be helping Unbound stop human trafficking and journey with survivors.Upgrade hereDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic PassNaomi Rijpstra, LMSW is the Director of Programs for Unbound Now in Bryan College Station (BCS). In her current role she carries out the mission and vision of Unbound Now in BCS providing leadership for staff and overseeing BCS' programs including the Brazos Valley Human trafficking Task Force. Naomi received her Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Baylor. Naomi provides specialized training both within the organization for staff and externally for partner agencies. She was born and raised in The Netherlands and has worked as a Social Worker for over 12 years with different populations in different settings both abroad and in the states. Naomi is passionate about equipping the community so that they can help identify victims and foster healing and growth to survivors as she believes relationships are the agent of change. Resources Mentioned: Unbound BCS VolunteerRequest Training for Your Group (church, co-op, neighborhood, etc)DonateNight of Hope Fund Raiser Kerry: Hey, everyone, Kerry Beck here with Life Skills Leadership Summit. If you've been around me, you know I love partnering with great organizations. Today, I have the privilege of talking to Naomi, the director of our local Unbound group. You may not know much about them, but you're going to learn a lot. Naomi, thanks so much for being here today.Naomi: Yes, thanks for having me, Kerry.Kerry: Well, I'm not going to sit here and just talk—I’m going to ask you all the hard questions and put you on the spot. I was going to ask you beforehand how to say your last name properly since I never got it right.Naomi: I know people always get uncomfortable announcing it, but my last name is Rijpstra.Kerry: There you go! Letting you say it is so much better than getting it wrong. I’ve known about Unbound and participated with them, even back when I was on the prayer team at church. My heart goes out to what they do—fighting against human trafficking. So, let’s get started. Naomi, tell people a little bit about yourself and Unbound, and how you connected with them.Naomi: Sure. First, I want to say thank you so much for being involved with Unbound. You’ve been around as long as I have, involved in so many ways, and we’re really grateful for that. I started with Unbound in 2021—so that's four years ago. I’m originally from the Netherlands, where I worked as a social worker with diverse populations. I came to the States, and that’s when I first encountered trafficking. I began working as a house parent at a ranch for girls who were trafficked. That was my introduction to understanding the trauma of human trafficking. I never thought that would be God's journey for me, but that's how it works.Since then, over more than ten years, I've worked in the anti-trafficking field both in the Netherlands and here in Texas. After graduating from Baylor University with my master’s in social work, I joined Unbound. I already knew about Unbound through the founder of our location—I loved their work and vision. I started as the Director of Survivor Advocacy, and last year I became the director.At Unbound, our mission is to support survivors of human trafficking—both sex and labor trafficking—and to provide resources to the community to combat trafficking and ignite hope. Unbound began when some brave women in a Waco church started praying. The founder, Susan Peters,
127: Raising Children for Greatness: Leadership
“Nice Nerds”—that is what people think of Christian homeschoolers. It’s a better reputation than the public schools, but not good enough to compete with the prep schoolers who run America, and the world. Leadership is the hallmark of an elite prep school education, and it shows—our last four Presidents: Bush, Obama, Trump, and now Biden, were all prep schoolers, not to mention billionaire tycoons like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk.In this interview, Britton LaTulippe gives real life examples in raising children for greatness. He will draw from his leadership training in prep school and the US Army Special Forces Qualification Course to show homeschoolers how to transform “nice nerds” into kingly Charlemagnes, Christian men and women who lead their teams to victory no matter the odds!In this episode, discover✅ 8 C’s of Leadership✅ How to raise kids to lead teams✅ Why an elite education is imperative for our childrenDiscover more about leadership for children when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
126: Side Hustle for Teens & Moms with an Etsy Shop
We know our kids will continue having to eat every day of their lives, and we all want to raise independent adults. Come learn about the vast benefits your kids will experience when they learn to cook and get strategies to make it work in your busy life.From therapeutic creativity to the exposure bucket that banishes picky eating, from the biggest mistake parents make when bringing their kids in the kitchen to the 3-step superpower process to build skills safely, your parenting toolbox will be overflowing after this session.In this episode, discover✅ 3 steps to building confidence in the kitchen✅ Biggest mistake parents make when they bring their kids in the kitchen✅ 3 steps to build safety skills in the kitchen✅ How to use the exposure bucket to stop picky eatingResources:Selling on Etsy Masterclass for TeensDiscover more life skills at home to use with your kids when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
125: How to Navigate Today’s Culture as a Christian Mom
Thirty years ago, we wouldn’t believe our culture is talking about changing genders, but that’s where we are. How do you navigate these issues with your tweens and teens? Dannah Gresh, of True Girl, offers encouragement and practical advice you can use immediately. We discuss your tweens/teens identity in Christ, preparing your children for future conversations in the world, and even pronouns to use. If you have children of any age, you need Kerry’s interview with Dannah. You will walk away with tools to help your kids stand up for Truth and build their heart on God’s plan.In this episode, discover✅ How to guide your tweens and teens to anchor their identity in Christ amidst cultural pressures✅ Tools for navigating tough conversations✅ How to handle pronouns with grace and truth withr a balanced approach to addressing pronouns while staying rooted in your values✅ Actionable steps to prepare your kids to face future conversations with courage and clarity.Stop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
124: Building Godly Character In Your Kids
As we continue our Best of LSLS”, let’s talk about the foundation of good leadership, where to start raising leaders, not followers. Godly character is the foundation for academic success, as well as success in life and raising a leader for the future.Discover how character is learned and how to establish a plan for teaching it to your children. Kathie will give several creative ways you can encourage your children to develop in this important area. After hearing this, you will be motivated, and full of ideas to use with your own children.In this episode, discover✅ An actionable plan to help you instill godly character in their children.✅ The ripple effect of character so your children can prepare them to influence and lead others in the future.✅ Motivation to take action with fresh ideas to implement character education in your homeschool.Stop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
123: Nourishing Rhythms and Routines
We often can become so focused on “covering the basics” that we forget the importance of filling our homeschool days with truth, beauty, and goodness- then we wonder why homeschooling can feel so draining! In this “Best of LSLS” episode, Julie Ross, the creator of A Gentle Feast, will explore how we can easily add more beauty in our days through nourishing routines and rhythms that will breathe life into our homes. Julie will show you how poetry, art, music, etc. are just as vital as any other subject in the educational feast. In fact, they are absolutely essential if our goal as homeschoolers is to develop students that are whole persons and magnanimous citizens that can bless the world with living ideas and love to learn for knowledge’s sake through the rest of their lives.In this episode, discover✅ How you can and should go beyond the basics of academics✅ The power of nourishing rhythms✅ Why truth, beauty, and goodness matter and how you can easily incorporate them into your daily routine, without overwhelm✅ 5 ways to add beauty easily into your daily homeschoolStop the homeschool overwhelm when you join us for Life Skills Leadership Summit on February 24-28, 2024 … completely freeSign up for this year’s 2025 Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic Pass
122: Should You Be Raising Leaders in Your Homeschool?
In this episode, Kerry discusses the importance of raising leaders in homeschooling. Leadership encompasses more than just academics; it encompasses character, thinking skills and relationships. She outlines four key aspects of a leader: godly character and vision, a lifetime learner with both tools and love of learning, critical thinking and decision-making skills, and communication skills. Kerry also introduces the upcoming Life Skills Leadership Summit, a free event in February that will cover various leadership and life skills topics.In this episode, discover✅ What leadership really is and why you should be raising leaders✅ 3 steps to helping your kids become the best leaders possible✅ 2 simple strategies for homeschooling kids who become lifetime learnersResources Mentioned:Life Skills Leadership Summit FREE Basic PassFree Class: 3 Tips to Finish Strong in Your Homeschool
121: Biblical Homeopathy
When we think of being good parents, we think of giving our kids a good education and growing them spiritually. But, we are also called to care for our kids’ health as well. One of those ways to care for your family’s health is with homeopathy. Today, Amanda Pelser, shares her story and how homeopathy is their solution to health concerns. In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ What is homeopathy✅ How homeopathy fits well with homeschooling✅ What is Biblical homeopathy✅ How you can get started using homeopathyMentioned Resources:Free quick start guide to using homeopathy Consults Amanda Pelser is a wife, a homeschooling mom of four boys, and an aspiring homesteader. After finding herself bedridden with chronic pain, fatigue, and autoimmune conditions, Amanda was left hopeless by the conventional medical community. Desperate for a change, she used her background as a seminary-trained researcher to integrate her Christian faith with the practice of homeopathy and reclaim her health. With 10+ years of experience using homeopathy, now, as a certified homeopath, Amanda gives hope to Christian moms who are ready to find biblically aligned health for themselves and their families
120: Celebrate Epiphany with these Hands-On Activities
Celebrate Epiphany with your family through hands-on activities that bring the story of the Wise Men to life. In this episode, we’ll explore creative crafts, thought-provoking questions, and global traditions to help your children understand the meaning of this special day. Learn how to incorporate the gifts of the Wise Men and act out the Nativity story together. Make Epiphany unforgettable with these fun and meaningful activities:✅ Questions to ponder during the 12 days of Christmas until Epiphany✅ 8 activities for families to celebrate Epiphany✅ Feast of Epiphany ideas✅ Create crafts like crown and star ornaments, stained glass windows, and glittery gifts✅ Explore the symbolism of frankincense, myrrh, and gold with sensory activities✅ Act out the Nativity story and discuss its significance with thought-provoking questions✅ Discover global Epiphany traditions and bring them into your own celebrationMentioned Links:Christmas Celebrations EbookStar of Bethlehem Family Bible Study EbookPosts to Help with Epiphany:Epiphany Traditions from our FamilyItalian Feast of Epiphany
119: Favorite Carols to Share with Your Family
Before you celebrate at church today or tomorrow, let’s take a look at two of my favorite Christmas carols. Often, we sing these songs, without paying attention to their meaning. Let’s not do that this year.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ A hidden verse in a popular Christmas carol ✅ The significance of phrases and words✅ Beautiful descriptions of Jesus that you can share or teach to your kids.Mentioned Links: O Come, O Come Emmanuel - 8 questions to discussFree Christmas Unit Study
118: Celebrating Advent as a Family
Advent is more than the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. As believers, your advent should look different from the world’s advent of shopping, baking and lots of activities. What tips can you get from today’s episode✅ What is Advent season ✅ How would Christians celebrate Advent as a family✅ Practical tips you can prepare your heart and your kids’ hearts for Christmas✅ How to use advent calendarsMentioned Links: Best Christmas Books to Read Aloud during Advent, including Jotham’s Journey, our family favorite! Christmas Celebrations EbookChristmas Around the World Unit StudyStar of Bethlehem Family Bible StudyAdvent Wreath & Devotional Christmas Nativity Finger PuppetsChristmas Memory Match Game & DevotionalHow to Use an Advent Wreath (Free Advent Calendar Printable)
117: Simple Christmas Around the World Traditions for Homeschoolers
December is the perfect month to take a break from formal homeschooling and integrate Christmas into your kids’ learning. The place to start is by learning simple Christmas around the world traditions that you can use in your December homeschool.My friend, Bonnie Rose, offers some easy and simple ideas you can use this year. In fact, I suggest you choose 4 countries this year. One for each week … then choose 2 Christmas around the world traditions for that country to do one week. Use the four weeks of Advent do learn about four countries and their Christmas around the world traditions.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ 2 very simple activities you can use to learn how others around the world celebrate Christmas✅ How other countries use a Christmas tree, when they don’t have pine trees✅ What type of nativity set to use with your kids✅ The number one thing that ties believers around the world at ChristmasResources Mentioned:Christmas Recipes & CraftsChristmas Homeschool Units (50% off through 12/31/24): Bonnie Rose Hudson is the owner and publisher of WriteBonnieRose. She serves homeschoolers and home educators around the world by creating practical resources that are fun, affordable, and easy to use. She has written for numerous publications and educational websites and has hundreds of resources in many subject areas for preschool through high school on WriteBonnieRose.com.
116: How to Be Thankful When the Holidays are Tough
Feeling overwhelmed this season? As homeschool and Christian moms, the holidays can bring stress, worries about finances, family tensions, or even feelings of loss. Let’s face it. The holidays are tough at times. God calls us to be thankful, even in the tough times, but how do you do it?You're stressed out from all the thingsWorried how to pay when there is more month than moneyYou keep arguing with your spouseIt’s your turn to host your in-laws are Friends "look" like they have the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas Someone will be missing at Thanksgiving or Christmas this year A loved one (or you) have chronic illnessIn this episode, you’ll discover:✅ How to trade the holiday overwhelm for a heart of gratitude✅ 3 steps to being thankful when the holidays are hard✅ A simple daily tool that can change complaining to thankfulness in your family
115: Surviving the Holidays as a Christian Homeschooler
With all the hustle & bustle of the holidays, it can be overwhelming. Thankfully, some moms have survived, like Jan Burt. Jan homeschooled her children over 30 years and is quite honest about her ups & downs during holidays. Learn from someone who has gone before you as Jan shares tips to truly survive AND enjoy the holidaysIn this episode, you’ll discover:✅ How to curb the temptation to do “all the things” in November & December✅ How to not cave into peer pressure, even within the Church and the Christian community✅ How to plan & schedule your time during the holidays, as a homeschooler✅ How much should you do outside your home during the holidays✅ 4 tips to use with teens during the holidays Resources Mentioned:Homeschool Planning Made SimpleJan L. Burt is an author, speaker, podcaster, married to Tony for 33 years, mom to five adult children, a grandmother and most importantly, a disciple of Jesus. She served in youth ministry alongside her husband for 12 years & is the founder of the Praying Through the Storm Online Prayer Retreat & is the host of the award-winning podcast The Burt (Not Ernie) Show. Her books The Power of God's Will - 40 Days of God's Promises Devotional, The Homeschooling Mother's Bible Study, & A 60-Day Prayer Journal for Parents are available on Amazon. Her audio-based Bible study course on praying & believing the promises God makes to us via Psalm 91 can be found at her website, JanLBurt.com. Stop by her website & grab your download of God's Promises in Isaiah while you're there!The Burt (Not Ernie) Show PodcastThe Power of God's Will - 40 Days of God's Promises DevotionalThe Homeschooling Mothers Bible StudyA 60-Day Prayer Journal for ParentsPsalm 91 Bible Study CourseGod's Promises in Isaiah free download
114: How to Forgive When It’s Hard
Forgiveness is not about the other person. It's all for you, your healing, your freedom, your joy, your peace. And it's one of the most important lessons you can teach your children.Today, I'll share personal stories because I've been through the wringer the past 8 years. Lots of experience from rejection and betrayal. Then, show how forgiveness can truly heal and replace bitterness in our livesIn this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Why we should always forgive✅ 2 choices we have when we’ve been rejected, offended, hurt or betrayed✅ What types of offenses should be forgiven✅ Where to find the strength & courage to forgive✅ 2 steps to healing, victory, joy and peaceResources MentionedHow to Forgive When You Don’t Feel Like It, by June Hunt Choosing Forgiveness, by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth
113: 3 Practical Gratitude Tips for Families
Today is Election Day. No matter what the outcome, we can always find something to be thankful for. We can always trust that God is in control. This leads us to use “gratitude” to replace any anxiety or worry we have.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ 3 practical gratitude tips you can use with your family, no matter your kids’ ages✅ 2 resources that kids can use to increase their thankfulness ✅ What moms need to do to encourage a grateful spirit in their kids✅ What we all must do, especially when circumstances are falling apartResources Mentioned:30 Day Gratitude ChallengeGratitude Journal for Kids Gratitude Journal Ideas FREE Thanksgiving Bible Study Things to Be Thankful For List
112: 30 Day Gratitude Challenge
It’s that time again…time for our annual 30-Day Gratitude Challenge. To kick it off, I’m sharing some ideas about gratitude and how it can help you (mom) and your family (kids). Gratitude & giving thanks are scattered all through the New Testament. Many sections tell us how to live for Christ and end with “give thanks”. Plus, being thankful is God's will. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God. I Thessalonians 5:17So, mom!Are you modeling a thankful or critical spirit? How are you encouraging your kids to be thankful and not complain? Listen today to get practical tips for your family. Then, sign up for our 30-Day Gratitude ChallengeIn this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Biblical perspective of thanksgiving✅ Number one thing a mom can do to get rid of complaining✅ Verses & Truths to encourage gratitude✅ What to fight for in your familyResources Mentioned:30-Day Gratitude Challenge (FREE)Thanksgiving Bible Study (FREE)
111: Light to the World: A Nation Built to Shine
I tend to shy away from talking politics on this podcast or my Facebook group. But yesterday, I was challenged to speak truth. If I don't speak, who might? Christians often don’t want to mix the church with politics. Historically, the church & state were one. What should Christians do today? How involved should they be in politics? How might this affect our voting for President this year?In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ 2 Biblical points our government should offer ✅ 7 men’s view of Christianity in America✅ Is the USA really Christian? Why or Why not?✅ Do you vote on the platform or the personality?✅ How to use the Bible to decide who to vote forResources MentionedPatriotic Holidays Bundle City on a Hill, October 20, 2024, Antioch College Station
110: What is Marxism & Why Should It Matter to Your Homeschool
When you hear the word, Marxism, what do you think? Is it just one of those “isms” that is only for philosophers. Join Linda Lacour Hobar and Kerry as they discuss these ideologies and how important they are to your homeschool today.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Who is Karl Marx & What is Marxism✅ 6 Main points of The Communist Manifesto✅ What is a Biblical perspective & reaction to the Communist Manifesto✅ Where do we see Communism & Marxism in today’s society✅ How to apply a Biblical perspective to Marxism when you vote in this year’s electionResources Mentioned:Homeschool Planning Made SimpleLinda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History, is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ, a genuine “people-person,” and a fan of comfortable high-heels. Through homeschooling her children, and service as a missionary, she discovered a deep love for world history. In 2000, Linda sensed a clear call to write The Mystery of History for her children, grandchildren, and generations to come that they might know “the mystery of God . . . in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Col 2:3) With 20+ years of worldwide circulation, The Mystery of History has been well received by all ages. While fact-filled and historically accurate, Linda’s writing style remains warm, personable, and thought provoking. The four-volume “Chronological, Christian, Complete” series is user-friendly and includes activities for multiple ages, timeline work, mapping exercises, quizzes, literature recommendations, audio books, and much more to fully engage students of all learning styles. In 2016, Linda broadened her scope of teaching to include cutting-edge online classes and lectures, which she maintains with great care, compassion, and conviction for biblical truth. The Mystery of History has been awarded: “Back to Homeschool Awards (2021),” “1st Place Middle School History—TTD Family Favorites Award (2020)”, “1st Place Middle School History—The Old Schoolhouse Excellence Award (2019)” “TTD Family Favorites Award (2019)” “Reader’s Choice About.com—Best Homeschool History Resource (2012),” Mary Pride’s “Practical Homeschooling Reader Award (2009),” “A Top Back to Homeschool Resource” Award (2009), The Old Schoolhouse “Excellence Award (2008),” and “Cathy Duffy’s 100 Top Picks.”A native-born Texan, Linda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Baylor University, where she first fell in love with world history. She presently resides in Tennessee where she continues to research, write, teach, and obsess over matters big and small. WebsiteFacebookFacebook GroupInstagramPinterest
109: Most Important History to Teach Your Kids ... No Matter Where You Live
When we think about teaching history in our homeschool, it usually only includes world history, American history and state history. But, there is a more important history to teach your kids.As Christian parents, we should also include church history. It doesn’t have to be that hard, so let’s look at creative and fun ways to include church history in your homeschool.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Why teach church history to your kids✅ How to teach your kids church history when you only studied American & world history✅ Tips on integrating church history with other subject areas to simplify your planning✅ Books & biographies that are age-appropriate to teach church history✅ Creative ways to include God’s work through the ChurchResources MentionedCelebrating Reformation Day Unit Study Veritas Press Timeline CardsSongs:A Mighty Fortress (2 versions)Version 1Version 2St Patrick’s Breastplate Hymn BooksBook List for Reformation Day
108: How to Teach Social & Emotional Skills in Your Homeschool
Too often we focus only on academics in our homeschool. There are many other areas of life that kids need to be prepared as an adult. One of those topics include social & emotional skills. Are you teaching your kids how to have emotional & social skills?Today, Dr. Melanie Wilson shares tips & tricks to prepare your kids to have social skills they will need in life.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ How to teach social & emotional skills✅ 1 Tip parents can use to teach emotional skills✅ How to use stories & picture books to teach social skills✅ What strategy does not work in teaching social & emotional skills✅ Why parents neglect teaching these skills in their homeschooolResources Mentioned:Dr. Melanie Wilson is a Christian psychologist turned homeschool mom of six graduates. She is the host of The Homeschool Sanity Show podcast and author of Grammar Galaxy language arts curriculum and Training Aliens social and emotional skills curriculum. She is passionate about helping moms enjoy their homeschooling journey.FacebookInstagram(Homeschool Sanity)Instagram(Grammar Galaxy Books)YouTube
107: Life Skills in Your Homeschool for Your Kids: Side Hustle Math & Profits {From the Vault}
Could you really make money with a side hustle? Could your teens make a side hustle while homeschooling?Should business skills matter to homeschoolers?Profits are an important topic for us to teach our kids. Even if you’re not a math person, you can do this.Let’s chat…In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Which type of side hustle has the least amount of risk✅ How an online business could change your life✅ Which type of business will give you the MOST FREEDOM✅ Mini Business Training: What is profit, revenue, income, expenses, etc✅ Tips on setting your prices & profit goalsResources MentionedJoin Amy Porterfield, other like-minded entrepreneurs and myself inCourse Confident Bootcamp. Sign up hereWhen you use my partner link, you can get–group coaching in our private FB pop up group–as well as my 12 Steps to Create a Side Hustle Income Plan.Sign up now before we start next Wednesday.DCA Wait ListMyths about CoursesStories about CoursesI Don’t Have Time ….Use Your Smart Phone to Boost Sales … from a homeschool mom
106: Find Freedom in Your Finances & Life {Bonus from the Vault}
I found freedom from my finances and in my life. Today, Let’s talk about how you can use money wisely and find freedom, too.If you’re looking for a side hustle, especially with a digital course, I’ll let you in on 5 secrets. These go along with my 5 mistakes I made over the past 20 years and how I corrected them to gain freedom.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ How I ended up with credit card debt & became overwhelmed✅ My attitude towards money & living in freedom✅ 5 secrets to freedom✅ Bouncing back from losing 1/2 my incomeResources MentionedJoin Amy Porterfield, other like-minded entrepreneurs and myself inCourse Confident Bootcamp. Sign up hereWhen you use my partner link, you can get–group coaching in our private FB pop up group–as well as my 12 Steps to Create a Side Hustle Income Plan.Sign up now before we start next Wednesday.DCA Wait ListMyths about CoursesStories about Courses
105: How to Side Hustle & Homeschooling {From the Vault}
Have you dreamed of starting a side business while you homeschool?But, you’re not sure how or what to do?Join me on today’s podcast and we’ll go through the basics. We’ll also chat about your idea for a side hustle.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ What is a side hustle✅ 6 side hustle ideas you could start this year✅ 3 steps to get started with your side hustle✅ 3 inspirational side hustle stories …homeschool mom’s side hustle & faith based side hustleResources MentionedCourse Confident Bootcamp…..with my FREE Private Group (& hand holding) + Create Your Side Hustle ($97)REMEMBER: If you sign up for Course Confident Bootcamp (opens Wed, Aug 30) with my link, you’re invited to my private FB group to get private coaching from me during each bootcamp session + Create Your Side Hustle Course $97GUIDE: 4 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Turn Your Knowledge Into A Digital Course QUIZ: 3 Types of People are Replacing Their Income with a Digital Course – Are you one of them? FREE TOOL to Create Your Digital CourseMyths about CoursesStories about CoursesDCA Wait ListMy Interview of Amy Porterfield
104: Money and Business: Empowering Moms to Create Freedom for their Family & in their Finances {From the Vault}
Money & business are hot topics, according to the number of emails I received about this class. Get practical tips to manage your money well and teach your kids about money, from a Biblical perspective.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ Why money & business should be important to homeschoolers✅ 3 considerations before you take on debt✅ 7 strategies to get out of debt✅ Biblical perspective of saving & giving✅ 4 activities to do with your kids to teach financesFree Resources for YOUFree Guide: 4 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Turn Your Knowledge Into A Digital CourseQuiz: 3 Types of People are Replacing Their Income with a Digital Course – Are you one of them? DCA Wait List
103: How a Healthy Lifestyle is Foundational to Homeschooling Success
Lisa Roers, of Sunshine Cafe, walked through her own health journey. After dozens of doctors, she learned how a healthy lifestyle would improve her life & her family. These tips & tricks can help your kids pay attention and focus better on their studies.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ 1 food to remove from your diet to make a long term impact in your family✅ 5 types of fasting✅ How fasting can grow self discipline in your kids and your own life✅ Tips to encourage your kids to fastResource Mentioned:Book by Willard F. Harley, Jr. - "His Needs, Her Needs"With 26-years in corporate America, Lisa Roers excelled in Business Development, Executive Coaching, and Enterprise Agile Coaching, until her health took an unexpected turn. In 2017, Lisa was hit with an auto-immune disease which escalated to the point where she was unable to walk! After the exhausting journey through 26 doctors across 8 specializations, without any concrete diagnosis or clear path for healing, Lisa leaned into her faith and embraced being her own self-advocate (with God), and has effectively reclaimed her complete health. Today, Lisa teaches Christ-followers how to put their health first while they chase their dreams of success, so they can live life to the full and be their best for God, for their family and for their career. Lisa is a Certified Coach, CEO of the Sunshine Cafe Podcast, a keynote speaker, a disciple of Jesus, a wife, a mom, and a professional musician. www.LisaRoers.com FacebookInstagramPodcast on YouTubePodcast on SpotifyPodcast on Apple
102: Large Family Homeschooling Tips, Home Management & Grief
Whether you have 3 kids or 10 kids, you’re looking for tips to homeschool well. Amy Roberts, of Raising Arrows, offers large family homeschooling tips, based on her family of 10 kids. She also gives practical tips for home management and dealing with serious grief.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ How to use systems with a large family✅ How to economize mom’s time when you homeschool✅ How to use morning time when you homeschool multiple kids✅ How to help your kids learn independently✅ How to survive grief and move forwardAmy Roberts of Raising Arrows® offers practical and encouraging advice on all things large family homemaking and homeschooling via her popular blog, podcast, and YouTube channel.FacebookInstagramYoutubePinterest.PodcastPsalms for the Grieving Heart
101 True Girl Update: Gender & Biblical Identity for Tweens & Teens
100: Homeschool Mom Encouragement: Mid-Summer Check
It’s the middle of the summer and you could use a break, I’m sure. Today, you’ll receive homeschool mom encouragement to help you finish your summer break strong and be ready for a new school year.In this episode, you’ll discover:✅ 3 M’s for moms to use to encourage themselves and their children✅ 7 simple ways to include the Bible in your daily life✅ 1 quality to evaluate where you are this summer✅ Easiest way to inspire a love of learning this summerMentioned Links:Homeschool Super Heroes Week FREE Pass