Homeschool Hints Podcast

Daniel Schwabauer, creator of the One Year Adventure Novel, explores how to engage reluctant writers and use stories to explain teaching concepts.Resource #1: https://clearwaterpress.com/curiosity-2/ (Curiosity Saved the Cat)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in March and beyond include:We’re getting ready for our March 6-7 homeschool conference and curriculum fair at the KCI Expo Center!Our conference silent auction is now live! You can bid on some great items while giving back to the homeschool community in Kansas City. You don’t even have to be at the conference to bid, so feel free to invite friends and family to join as well!Make sure to plan for our open houses - something new we’re introducing this year during 9-10 a.m. on Friday.Last-minute conference checklist: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/homeschool-conference-checklist/Our homeschool high school prom will be 7-11 p.m. April 10 at the Camelot Ballroom in Overland Park. This is for 9th through 12th graders - typically ages 14-19. Limited space is open to parents who want to chaperone.Finally, registration is open for our May Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks! More details on discounts and times are available on our website. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Kristi Windish of True Compass discusses the benefits of aptitude testing in this podcast episode. Learn how your homeschool high school student can make the best college, career and life decisions based on such assessments!-Kristi's educational journey, starting from her work in speech language pathology [0:30]-How to overcome challenges associated with making career and college choices [3:00]-Why assessments should go beyond interest inventories to include scientific research and data [5:30]-Some benefits of assessments across all levels of education [9:30]-Overview of services most commonly experienced by homeschool families, including group discounts [12:00]-Specific age requirements [17:10]Resource #1: https://www.truecompassllc.com/ (True Compass LLC website)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Jason Jackson of Ricketts Great Books College describes the benefits of distance learning in this podcast episode. Discover how your homeschool student can enjoy an immersive, accountable, accessible yet affordable college experience that's free of distractions!-Jason's educational journey as a lifelong learner [1:00]-How the learning experience at Ricketts Great Books College dovetails with homeschooling [2:10]-Opportunities to gain different certifications throughout the program [6:00]-Some examples of the classic literature studied at the college [6:50]-Factors for homeschool families to consider when making college decisions [10:10]-Affordability: Students can get half of their fees credited back to them when successfully completing their course of study [12:30]-Coming to the March 6-7 homeschool conference [17:00]Resource #1: https://rickettsgreatbookscollege.org/ (Ricketts Great Books College website)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Retired homeschool mama, author and podcaster Terri Hitt discusses our upcoming Women's Encouragement Day for homeschool moms.-Introduction to her book [0:30]-How Terri's homeschool experience shaped her parenting journey [3:00]-Terri's ministry to moms and godly motherhood mentoring, after her daughter died unexpectedly [4:50]-What moms can look forward to gaining at the Jan. 31 Women's Encouragement Day [7:40]-How women can feel "appreciated and understood" by attending such events [10:30]-Further free resources available [12:00]Resource #1 - Women's Encouragement Day: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/Resource #2 - Follow Terri Hitt on Instagram: www.instagram.com/terrihitt/Resource #3 - Visit Terri Hitt's website: terrihitt.comContinue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in January and beyond include:Homeschool youth ages 13 and older can apply for our conference Youth Leadership Team, or YLT, program.Homeschool Students ages 12 and older can now enter their creations in our first ever Creative Arts Showcase during our March 6-7 homeschool conference. Registration is FREE for MPE members.Homeschool dads get a special night out from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30! Enjoy fellowship, a friendly and optional chili cook-off, a session with speaker John Blackburn from The Forge, and dessert. All homeschool dads (or those considering homeschooling) are welcome!Our next Women’s Encouragement Day will be 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Jan. 31 at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. Discounted pricing is available between now and Jan. 4.Our Kansas Homeschool Capitol Day will be Feb. 6. We encourage families to start setting up appointments now to meet their legislators during this event. Take your children on a free virtual chess trip with MPE at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12! This fun, interactive lesson will explore chess fundamentals, beginner strategies, and creative problem-solving skills that build confidence both on and off the board.The instructor, Steven Bloom, is a former top-ten chess player. He’s known for making chess engaging and easy to understand—even for complete newcomers or players with some experience.Finally, registration is open for our February Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks! More details on discounts and times are available on our website. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Isaac Durst, former head of school at the Principled Academy (now ValuesandVirtues.org), discusses the importance of character education in maturing and developing homeschool students.-How Values & Virtues got its start as Principled Academy [1:50]-Why homeschool families are passionate in asking questions and taking charge of their children's learning [4:40]-Some of the academic successes linked to character education [7:00]-How to involve "head, heart, and hands" in building virtue and values within children [10:30]-Some of the best ways to navigate the valuesandvirtues.org website [12:20]-How to help students connect the dots between classic stories and real-life application [15:30]-Next steps for people interested in learning more [18:20]Resource #1: https://valuesandvirtues.org/ (Values & Virtues website)Resource #2: Homeschool Conference & Curriculum FairContinue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Wondering how to prepare your homeschool students for higher education? Brian Barber from Central Christian College of the Bible recommends his best tips in this interview - including internships, volunteering, and personality tests.-Brian's own educational journey as a homeschool grad [1:00]-His experience with homeschool graduates attending college [2:30]-How the COVID-19 pandemic affected higher education, including technology and counseling [4:20]-Why scheduling flexibility will be more important to colleges and attendees in the future [7:40]-Steps for parents wanting to help their children adapt to an ever-changing jobs market, life after graduation [8:50]-Gaining job advice from other families, homeschooling and non-homeschooling [13:00]-Tips for first-time homeschool conference attendees [16:10]Resource #1: https://cccb.edu/ (Central Christian College of the Bible website)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Annette Vaughn wrote "Dear Homeschool Mom" covering unique aspects, circumstances and seasons of homeschooling to help parents throughout their journey - many of whom are first-generation homeschoolers!-How Annette got the inspiration for her book [1:30]-Ways in which she chose the different "ages and stages" of homeschooling, highlighting unique circumstances and situations from each family [8:00]-The huge need for homeschool encouragement as many parents are first-generation homeschoolers [13:20]-How to deal with specific arguments against, and questions about, homeschooling [14:50]-HSLDA's Compassion fund and how all proceeds from the book will benefit homeschool families through HSLDA [18:00]Resource #1: https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Homeschool-Mom-Letters-Encouragement/dp/B0FS7FB8CK (Annette Vaughn's "Dear Homeschool Mom" book on Amazon)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Terrie Hellard-Brown of Hypurpley Press explores various tips and methods homeschool parents can use to value the uniqueness of each child and how to best their needs.-Terrie's homeschool journey as an overseas missionary originally getting faulty diagnoses for her special-needs children [0:30]-The inspiration behind Hypurpley Press [3:30]-Some challenges of being a homeschool mom with children who have complex medical needs, including multiple surgeries [7:20]-How to spark everyday discipleship and have important conversations with our children, especially those who have autism and other special needs [22:00]-Tips for first-time attendees at the March 6-7 MPE homeschool conference [37:10]Resource #1: https://terriehellardbrown.com/ (Terrie's website)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (MPE conference)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Deborah Burns, founder of the Medical Transcription Service and retired homeschool mom, explains how she entered this industry and now helps other families with this work-from-home opportunity.-Deborah's homeschool journey from "terrible preconceptions" to huge fan [0:30]-How her family doctor "recruited" her into becoming a medical transcriptionist [4:00]-Some of the challenges of working from home [4:50]-Artificial intelligence (AI) and some of the ways it's changing the medical transcription industry [6:50]-Some of the benefits of working from home [8:20]-Differences between medical transcription and medical coding/billing [10:30]-Next steps for people interested in learning more [12:40]Resource #1: https://www.medtranscription.com (Medical Transcription Service website)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Joan Samuell explores the health benefits and advantages of Norwex and microfiber cleaning for homeschool households. Check out her vendor booth at our March 6-7 conference and curriculum fair!-Joan's homeschool journey [0:30]-Cleaning products for every household, and what to look for in microfiber cloths [2:50]-Tips to get the children involved in nontoxic cleaning [4:30]-Streamlined cleaning processes [6:00]-Startling statistics over the 87,000 chemical ingredients used in the US, yet still to be tested for their impact on human health [8:40]-Resources and tips for homeschool moms seeking more information [12:20]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair)Resource #2: https://www.norwex.com/?r=joanbryansamuell&store=us (Joan Samuell's website)Resource #3: https://www.facebook.com/groups/joansVIP (Joan Samuell's Facebook VIP group)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

In this podcast episode, Author JA Webb explains his journey from atheist to Christ-follower who writes award-winning suspense thriller fiction that is male-centric in a speculative setting. Check out his books at our March 6-7 homeschool conference and curriculum fair!-JA's experience as former atheist turned Christ-follower [0:30]-What made him decide to write Christian fiction [6:00]-How he heard about MPE [9:10]-Some of the challenges to becoming a published author [10:30]-JA's tips to aspiring young authors [12:40]-Advice for homeschool moms seeking to encourage their sons in writing [14:10]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair)Resource #2: https://jawebbauthor.com/ (JA Webb's website)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Sean and Caroline Allen homeschool their nine children ages 1 to 21. Learn their guidelines for choosing the right homeschool priorities this year and setting up your family for success!-Perspective after 20+ years of homeschool experience [1:30]-How to homeschool after having been homeschooled [4:40]-Building on the legacy of previous homeschool generations [5:30]-How to stay organized without getting overwhelmed [6:50]-Finding the balance between routines vs. strict time schedules [8:20]-Setting the "grand vision" for your homeschool [9:40]-Advice for first-time homeschoolers [12:30]-Different homeschool trends over the years [19:00]-How to combat social media pressure over homeschooling [22:30]Resource #1 - https://thewellorderedhomeschool.com/ and https://www.chalkfullofdesign.com/Resource #2 - Sean Allen's "No Ordinary Days" podcast: https://thewellorderedhomeschool.com/pages/podcastResource #3 - MPE Women's Encouragement Day: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in September and beyond include:The first graduation meeting for our Class of 2026 will be Monday, Sept. 8, at Garrett Chapel at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe.A field trip opportunity for MPE members only will be Sept. 12 at Vita Craft headquarters in Shawnee. Homeschool children grades 2 and higher can take a tour of the manufacturing facility producing handcrafted, multi-ply stainless steel cookware. Field trip participation is limited to 20 students.Our Homeschool Family Fun Night Out will be Oct. 9 at Kanga’s Indoor Playcenter and Cafe in Independence. A fellow homeschool family runs this business and is excited to see us there!Our PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test opportunity will be available to homeschooled students on Oct. 16. The deadline for registering is 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10.Finally, this Thursday (Aug. 28) is the last day to register for our Sept. 14-26 Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Struggling to homeschool unique learners? Whether you’re navigating curriculum adjustments, motivation challenges, or poor executive function skills, coaching helps you gain clarity, build confidence, and create a thriving learning environment. -Recent shifts in the homeschool world over special ed resources [1:10]-The staggering data of families (50%) who choose to homeschool because of a specialized health need or learning need [2:20]-How to differentiate between coaching, counseling, and mentoring [3:05]-Unpacking the mindsets holding us back from success in teaching our children [4:00]-FAQ: What if I don't feel qualified or trained enough to teach my unique learner? [6:30]-The program's format and schedule from September 2025 through May 2026 [7:40]-Some of the benefits in joining a coaching community: "space and grace," virtual and in-person meetups, confidentiality, etc. [13:10]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/unique-learners-coaching-program/ (Unique Learners Coaching Program)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair)Resource #3: Homeschoolers.com (Suzanne Wandling's website)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Explore ways to make your homeschool planning more intentional as this list of life skills from Lyndsey Mimnagh's "Treehouse Schoolhouse" can inspire all ages through family-centered learning!-Lyndsey's background as a childhood educator, missionary and entrepreneur [1:00]-How to build the right environment for family-centered learning [3:10]-Living literature vs. twaddle, and some options to help build a reading appetite in our children [4:00]-When to introduce books with more serious themes at appropriate ages [6:20]-Defining "success" in your homeschool [9:40]-How to teach life skills to your children even if it wasn't modeled in your own childhood [12:00]-Some challenges to teaching life skills, and how to overcome them [14:50]-Specific ways to think holistically about education [19:10]-Tips for homeschool parents starting this school year [21:50]Resource #1 - Treehouse Schoolhouse website: https://treehouseschoolhouse.com/collections/all Special discount code:HOMESCHOOLHINTS1515% off your total order. One use per customer. Cannot be combined with other promos. Expires six months after episode release.Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer Moreno started her homeschool journey as a "COVID homeschooler." She recounts withdrawing her then-4th grade son in 2020 during the pandemic and learning all about homeschooling from the ground up: curriculum, community, working in addition to homeschool, and more!-How "everything was in disarray" in public schools during 2020 [1:04]-Researching homeschool after growing up "public school educated" [1:52]-Teachers in public school vs. the public-school system [4:00]-How to get through the "tough days" of homeschooling [6:20]-Her experience working part time and even full time while still homeschooling [7:48]-Building a homeschool support system [8:14]-FAQ: How do you choose homeschool curriculum? [11:36]-Lessons learned in the first 1-3 years of homeschooling [15:12]-Some of the surprises of homeschooling: not stuck doing schoolwork, more time for family "adventures," seeing your child's academic strengths firsthand, etc. [18:30]-"Amazing" community of homeschool moms [21:10]-The importance of 20-plus years of homeschooling for a new perspective (e.g. Women's Encouragement Day) [22:08]-Practical ways to plug into homeschooling resources and connections [23:24]-One thing she would change if she had to go back and redo homeschooling [25:50]Resource #1 - MPE website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in June and beyond include:Earlybird seller registration for our Used Curriculum Sale closes May 31, and the final deadline is June 7. The sale will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14. We’ll also have a free how-to-homeschool workshop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. just before the sale opens.Sign up now for the best pricing on our Homeschool Day at the K, July 28. The Royals will face off against the Atlanta Braves at 6:40 p.m. that Monday. It’s also free T-shirt night!Our next First Aid + CPR class will be Aug. 2 at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. These certification courses can benefit childcare providers, babysitters, and others who interact with children on a regular basis! The next Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks are Sept. 14-26. Please sign up as soon as possible if you have a strong preference on times and dates. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of “Homeschool Hints,” host Shanxi Omoniyi explores the data on homeschool graduates and how they fare in the real world. Despite myths and stereotypes of the isolated homeschooler, research over 40+ years demonstrate how they outperform public-school peers in terms of academics, social skills, community engagement, and self-esteem. See how you can homeschool with confidence and graduate confident, skilled young adults!--------------------------Best Moments:-Exploding the myth of "no data" regarding homeschool grads [0:48]-Facts on homeschoolers' academic achievement [1:21]-Research on graduates' social, emotional and psychological development [2:00]-Mental health statistics on long-term homeschoolers: a recent study's surprising findings [2:50]-3 takeaways for those at the beginning, or in the middle, of their homeschool journey [4:05]Resource #1 - Upcoming MPE homeschool graduation ceremony: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/graduation/Resource #2 - National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) Fast Facts on Homeschooling: https://nheri.org/research-facts-on-homeschooling/Resource #3 - Cardus Educational Survey (CES) on "Findings About Homeschooled Adults" including mental health, February 2025: https://www.cardus.ca/research/education/reports/diverse-outcomes-for-a-diverse-population/?Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in May and beyond include:Our class of 2025 will be graduating May 9 at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe. This is a FREE event and a wonderful peek into the world of life after homeschooling!The next Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks are May 4-16. There are still a few spots left, but availability is VERY limited since we’re competing with events like a NASCAR race and Mother’s Day weekend within that timeframe. Please sign up as soon as possible if you have a strong preference on times and dates.Seller registration for our Used Curriculum Sale opens May 1. This year the sale will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14. We’ll also have a free how-to-homeschool workshop from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. just before the sale opens.Sign up now for the best prices on our Homeschool Day at the K, July 28! Rates increase the closer we get to the event. The Royals will face off against the Atlanta Braves at 6:40 p.m. that Monday. It’s also free T-shirt night! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Lisa Nehring from True North Academy explains the fourth industrial revolution and how to prepare homeschool students for a time of great disruption and change. Life skills such as entrepreneurship, communication, finance, problem-solving will always help our children pivot quickly - no matter what the job market is doing!-Lisa's experience in high school and how schooling felt like an unnecessary deterrent to the life she really wanted [1:50]-The importance of career exploration and business research during the high school years (and maybe even middle school) [3:00]-Details about the fourth industrial revolution [5:00]-A list of skills every child needs [8:00]-Examples of homeschool student entrepreneurs [9:30]-How the fourth industrial revolution is changing the college landscape [11:30]-Why parents need to strategize for today's generation of college kids - to launch them well for that piece of paper while recognizing higher education is undergoing a time of upheaval [13:30]Resource #1 - Upcoming MPE homeschool conference & curriculum fair: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/Resource #2 - True North Academy: https://truenorthhomeschool.academy/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Trisha Pull from Homeschooling With Confidence discusses things she wished she had known before she started her homeschool journey. She's a former teacher turned homeschool mom of six kids and knows life in the trenches of homeschooling, as well as the triumphs along the way!-Tip #1: Did you know how messy homeschooling can be? What Trisha wishes she had known about the "mess" that comes with homeschooling (especially what the Internet and social media doesn't tell you)! [3:30]-How the mess can lead to goodness and redemption in everyday life [6:00]-Tip #2: Your homeschool doesn't have to imitate anyone else's homeschool [9:10]-Some ways Trisha made homeschooling harder than it needed to be in the first year [10:00]-Tip #3: The importance of read-alouds in homeschooling multiple grades [12:20]-Tip #4: Why there is no perfect curriculum [14:30]-Homeschooling high school [19:30]-Why there is no formula for success in homeschool - except maybe this [23:20]-Answering questions from the audience [25:00]Resource #1 - Upcoming MPE homeschool conference & curriculum fair: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/Resource #2 - Homeschooling With Confidence: https://hswithconfidence.com/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Adelaide Olguin from TalkBox.Mom discusses foreign language success as a homeschool family, how it's never too early to educate. She also outlines common pitfalls that can stop you from learning languages easily.-Defining success in a foreign language: when everyone in your family is using it throughout the day to get things done [2:00]-The problem of starting with numbers, letters, and colors [4:40]-Natural language progression and how babies learn a language [7:05]-Tips on how to acquire language the way Charlotte Mason described as "living speech" [10:40]-How fluency is a path, a way of life, as opposed to a destination [12:00]-Pitfall #1: Expecting perfection [15:00]-Pitfall #2: Vocabulary lists [16:30]-Pitfall #3: Emphasizing mistakes [17:10]-Pitfall #4: Stressful deadlines [18:20]-Pitfall $5: Building the language, not extracting it [19:30]-Further details about the April 4-5 conference [20:40]-Live Q&A from the audience: Can students learn more than one language at the same time? [21:20]Resource #1 - Upcoming MPE homeschool conference & curriculum fair: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/Resource #2 - TalkBox.Mom: https://talkbox.mom/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Amanda Medford, a second-generation homeschooler, explains how events like Women's Encouragement Day can help homeschoolers build community. Amanda has homeschooled five children in three states and knows the importance of fellowship and connection along your educational journey! -Why Amanda decided to join the Encouragement Day committee [2:00]-The differences between her homeschool journey vs. her children's [3:10]-Tips Amanda learned along the way to help with homeschooling [5:20]-What if you're beginning homeschool in the middle of the school year? [8:30]-Some of the changes planned to Women's Encouragement Day this year, compared to previous years [11:00]Resource #1 - Women's Encouragement Day, Feb. 1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/Resource #2 - Upcoming MPE homeschool conference & curriculum fair: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in January and beyond include:Our homeschool webinar on co-ops, enrichment, and athletics programs will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. Explore all the options, including “on-site” vs. “drop-off,” pricing, enrollment, curriculum, and more.A Facebook Live with conference vendor TalkBox.Mom is scheduled for 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13. Leave a comment during the Live session, and you'll enter to win a 1 of 5 Bilingual in Nature Experience with 10 different languages to use on your next nature walk in a softcover book plus mobile app access (a $37 value)!Preparations are underway for the Feb. 6 Homeschool Capitol Day, and we encourage Kansas homeschoolers to start setting up appointments to meet their legislators in January for the event. Please let us know to expect you by completing this short form.Our Dad’s Night Out Chili Cook-off is scheduled for Jan. 31 atChurch of Christ in Olathe. Dads will enjoy fellowship, a friendly chili competition dinner, a devotion, and dessert. All homeschool dads (or those considering homeschooling) are welcome!Our next Women’s Encouragement Day will be 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. Draw inspiration from the stories of families homeschooling for two or more generations, seeing the Lord’s faithfulness in their homeschool journey.Finally, earlybird registration for MPEKIDS (our conference childcare program) opens Jan. 3! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

How can we help raise children who live honorable lives and reach their full potential? Monica Irvine from The Etiquette Factory explains how we can show our children the "payoff" in helping those around us feel valued and comfortable (Monica's definition of etiquette)!-Skill #1: How to prioritize our lives (and teaching our children by modeling it ourselves as parents) [3:00]-The power of a praying family [5:10]-Skill #2: How to teach our children to love one another through etiquette [17:10]-Practical ways we can help our children practice manners in everyday life [21:30]-Skill #3: How and when to teach our children skills in kindness [23:10]-Skill #4: How to teach our children to give a sincere apology [29:00]-Skill #5: How to show our children that discipline is an act of love [35:40]-Programs and resources to help your children study etiquette as part of their homeschool day [40:50]Resource #1 - Upcoming MPE homeschool conference & curriculum fair: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/Resource #2 - The Etiquette Factory: https://theetiquettefactory.com/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

How do you explain homeschooling during the holidays when visiting skeptical family and friends? Good news: we can do it winsomely, knowing the data is already on our side!Christy Faith, author of "Homeschool Rising," discusses quick tips and disarming one-line replies to help address the hearts of our listeners - especially those who may become our biggest supporters if shown the tangible benefits of a homeschool lifestyle. -Christy's journey from educational consultant for the very wealthy to homeschooler, TikTok influencer [0:30]-How to anticipate pushback from society, given the current zeitgeist of distrust regarding homeschooling and parents [6:30]-Tips on being winsome in a "high-stakes environment" of close-knit relationships [10:40]-How to formulate and memorize a specific "why" statement that is disarming while opening the door to further discussion [11:20]-Helping prepare your children in ways that are age-appropriate and specific for potential questioning [15:00]-Two camps of people with homeschool resistance [16:10]-Why we need to stay connected with people outside our circle of homeschool friends [19:20]-History of the compulsory school system [26:10]-How to discuss homeschooling in real-life interactions vs. social media entertainment [30:20]Resource #1 - Christy Hitt's "Homeschool Rising" bookResource #2 - MPE's upcoming homeschool conference and curriculum fairContinue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in November and beyond include:Our next First Aid and CPR class for ages 12 and up will be Nov. 9 at Journey Bible Church in Olathe.Our next Class of 2025 homeschool high school graduation meeting will be 7 p.m. Nov. 11 at College Church of the Nazarene. This is the last day to sign up for our May 9 graduation ceremony!Our Dad’s Night Out Chili Cook-off is scheduled for Jan. 31 atChurch of Christ in Olathe. Dads will enjoy fellowship, a friendly chili competition dinner, a devotion, and dessert. All homeschool dads (or those considering homeschooling) are welcome!Our next Women’s Encouragement Day will be 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. Draw inspiration from the stories of families homeschooling for two or more generations, seeing the Lord’s faithfulness in their homeschool journey.The next Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks are scheduled for Feb. 2-7 and 23-28. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Crisis times can derail even the most veteran homeschooling plans. However, they also give us opportunities to grow and set firm foundations so our children can enjoy a lifetime of resilience.Join homeschool mama and podcaster Terri Hitt as she shares her story of trusting God through multiple crises - loss of a child and parents, job losses, international adoptions, and more.-Explaining common emotions and experiences for someone during a crisis [2:30]-One strategy Terri has found most helpful for those seasons: 'putting on blinders' [4:00]-The difference between facing a crisis before vs. after homeschooling [5:25]-How to look for the blessings [8:50]-Finding ways to 'plan for the unplanned' [10:00]-Dealing with the pressure to make it perfect or compare our homeschools to others [12:25]-Advice for others going through similar crises and life situations [15:30]-Building resilience in our children and encouraging them to "fail" in order to succeed [16:20]-Using the multiple blessings of homeschooling's availability and flexibility [18:30]-Balancing the need for routine as well as the time to process complex emotions, e.g. grief, in front of our children [22:00]-Further free resources available for families [25:40]Resource #1 - Follow Terri Hitt on Instagram: www.instagram.com/terrihitt/Resource #2 - Receive your FREE eBook, "Discover How Your Identity is Sabotaging Your Children": www.terrihitt.com/resources/discover-how-your-identity-is-sabotaging-your-childrenResource #3 - Visit Terri Hitt's website: terrihitt.comResource #4 - Learn about Terri Hitt's program, The Set-Apart Collective: www.terrihitt.com/setapartContinue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in October and beyond include:The next Moms’ Morning Out will be 6:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, at Denny’s along Shawnee Mission Parkway in Merriam. Everyone is welcome — from those just thinking about homeschooling as well as those who have been homeschool veterans for decades.Our next Class of 2025 homeschool high school graduation meeting will be 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at College Church of the Nazarene. This is the last day to sign up for our high school graduation ceremony without incurring a late fee. Seniors will also be forming their own graduation committees!Also starting October 14-18 is the God-Centered Homeschool Summit 2.0. Enjoy personable, interview-style videos while also exploring quality resources (with discount sales!) in the online exhibit hall. The entire summit is FREE if you sign up by Oct. 14!Our next First Aid and CPR class for ages 12 and up will be Nov. 9 at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. Registration opens Oct. 5.The next Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks are scheduled for Feb. 2-7 and 23-28. Online coupon codes have been shared with our MPE members and will be released to the public, starting Oct. 4. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Suzanne Wandling, elementary education and special needs expert, discusses homeschool kindergarten readiness and what to expect.-Overview of homeschool kindergarten using play-based and simple learning activities [0:30]-Common misconceptions or myths about elementary education [2:20]-Knowing the general attention span for a typical kindergarten student and introducing breaks [4:40]-Other developmental milestones to remember, kindergarten readiness checklists [6:30]-Possible red flags that may indicate special needs [8:30]-Describing a typical homeschool kindergarten day: routines, organization, etc. [10:20]-Free and low-cost homeschool resources to consider [13:10]-How COVID-19 and technology have prompted delays in fine-motor skills and language development [15:50]Resource #1 - Homeschool Kindergarten Ideas: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/kindergarten-homeschool-ideas-2/Resource #2 - Slow & Steady, Get Me Ready https://www.amazon.com/Slow-Steady-Get-Me-Ready/dp/0962232211Resource #3 - Before Five In A Row: https://fiveinarow.com/shop/before-five-in-a-row/Resource #4 - UFLI: https://ufli.education.ufl.edu/Resource #5: All About Reading: https://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-reading/Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in September and beyond include:Another webinar on “homeschool socialization” in our series will take place 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7. It will explore how to ensure your child’s social success with peer-based events, meetups, volunteering opportunities, and more! Our preparations for the Class of 2025 homeschool high school graduation will kick off with an informational meeting at 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at College Church of the Nazarene. There will be a pizza party and dessert with lemonade and water - graduates can also bring their favorite drinks!Registration is open for our Oct. 16 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test opportunity at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park. High school juniors who take the PSAT are eligible for the National Merit scholarship program, which can mean a full-ride college scholarship to the university of their choice. Sophomores are also welcome to take the test as practice as space allows.Registration has been extended for our Sept. 15-27 Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks.Our next First Aid and CPR class for ages 12 and up will be Nov. 9 at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. This is a great, affordable way to keep your First Aid & CPR training up to date and learn lifesaving skills by practicing in a group of fellow homeschoolers. Registration opens Oct. 5. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Jacklynn Walters, a Shawnee City Councilwoman and longtime homeschool mom, discusses our upcoming "how to homeschool workshop" and what to expect. -Topics covered at the homeschool workshop: overview of the law, organizing a homeschool day, choosing curriculum, etc. [2:30]-Using the question-and-answer time to connect with other parents, both moms and dads [3:15]-Answering common objections to starting homeschool [4:15]-Attendee feedback [5:10]-Tips for moms as they prepare for the back-to-school season [7:50]-Advice for first-time homeschool families [12:50]-Aug. 17 summary: Meet & Greet, etc. [15:45]Resource #1 - Aug. 17 homeschool workshop: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/how-to-homeschool-workshop/Resource #2 - KC-area list of co-ops, enrichment programs, activities and more: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/homeschool-enrichment-co-op-athletic-programs/ Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in August and beyond include:Our GROW workshop for homeschool moms will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8, at Grace Point Baptist Church in KCMO. All supplies for the activity are included in your fee, along with a delicious spread of food and drink. Seating is limited!Our annual legislative event for Kansas homeschoolers is 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at Hope Family Fellowship in KCK.A free “How to Homeschool” workshop will be August 17, 10-11 a.m. at Lenexa City Center Library. A Meet & Greet will take place one hour before the workshop. A variety of curriculum and other homeschool materials will also be available to browse from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A donation to MPE of any amount is appreciated, but not required. Experienced homeschool moms will be there to help answer questions.Another webinar on “homeschool socialization” in our series will take place 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7. It will explore ways to ensure your child’s social success. Registration is open for our Sept. 15-27 Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Prepare for the next school year by taking time just for you - the homeschool mom! Christa Norman, former public-school teacher and founder of a homeschool co-op, shares her tips for eliminating overwhelm, creating margin in your life, and welcoming friendships.-What moms can expect at a GROW event: fun projects, time for discussions or reflection, and refreshments without any cleanup! [2:50]-Questions to ask on ways to "welcome" deep relationships with our children, ourselves, and others [5:00]-Advice for new, first-time moms [6:40]-How to start the homeschool year without feeling overwhelmed [12:00]-Finding people within the homeschool community with different talents, gifts, and educational styles [15:30]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/grow-back-homeschool-workshop/ (MPE's GROW workshop)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/ (Women's Encouragement Day)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in July and beyond include:Our next Moms’ Morning Out will be at 6:30 a.m. Thursday, July 11, for breakfast at Denny’s at 9001 Shawnee Mission Parkway in Merriam.A free “How to Homeschool” webinar will be 10 a.m. Saturday, July 13. We’ll help you set expectations, meet legal requirements, tailor curriculum, and choose homeschool styles for your unique family. Leave with the resources and confidence you need to begin or continue your homeschool journey!A First Aid and CPR class will also be on July 13, from 1-5 p.m. at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. This is a great, affordable way to keep your First Aid & CPR training up to date and learn lifesaving skills by practicing in a group of fellow homeschoolers.Our GROW workshop for homeschool moms will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8, at Grace Point Baptist Church in KCMO. In this workshop, we’ll talk about how our days can be filled with things for everyone else in our family, but it’s important that we do things for ourselves that enable us to be healthy and whole! All supplies for the activity are included in your fee, along with a delicious spread of food and drink. Registration is limited to 24 moms.Registration is open for our Sept. 15-27 Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Save money, get educational supplies at a discount, and make friends in your homeschool community at our Used Curriculum Sale!Jennifer Laporte, one of MPE's board members, shares how these sales have helped her family over 20 years of homeschooling. See her tips for packing, parking, and more.-How sales have helped her find items out of her reach to buy new, but able to get used [1:05]-What items people can expect to find - from math manipulatives and games to microscopes, CDs, manuals, etc. [2:00]-Advantages of a used curriculum sale over other options such as buying online, Facebook marketplace, etc. [3:16]-How your children can benefit from joining sales [4:11]-Tips for first-time sale attendees: parking, preparing with backpacks and wheeled carts, money and other purchasing options, etc. [5:01]-Joining the free "how to homeschool" workshop for people new to homeschooling or in their first 1-3 years of homeschool [7:47]-Suggestions for the June 11 sale at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene, including entrance and directions [10:20]-How sellers can help with homeschooling and foster community among one other [11:50]-How this sale can benefit homeschoolers when times are tough financially, as families often operate on smaller budgets [12:28]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/used-curriculum-sale/ (MPE's Used Curriculum Sale)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in June and beyond include:Our GROW workshop for homeschool moms will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at Grace Point Baptist Church in KCMO. Join KC Connected Homeschool in creating a make-and-take wooden “Welcome” sign and discussing the value of joy-filled friendships. A variety of sweet and savory snacks and drinks will also be provided. Registration is limited to 24 moms.The homeschool high school class of 2024 will celebrate with a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 17, at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe.Our Used Curriculum Sale on Tuesday, June 11. It will be 6-8 p.m. at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene on State Line Road in Kansas City, MO. Admission is free for all buyers!If homeschooling is new to you, come to our free “How to Homeschool” workshop at 5 p.m. before the sale. This workshop will help you set expectations, meet legal requirements, tailor curriculum, and choose homeschool styles for your unique family. You'll leave with the resources and confidence you need to begin or continue your homeschool journey! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Craig Harrison, homeschool dad and engineer, shares his experience as full-time home educator to his sons. Any parent, dad or mom, can provide their children with an exceptional education - and Craig would like to show you how!-How Craig began as a "reluctant homeschooler" [0:20]-His background in science, mathematics and engineering [2:45]-Challenges for dads as the primary homeschoolers [5:30]-Tips on homeschooling boys: healthy competition, exercise, etc. [13:15]-STEM homeschool resources, both free and low-cost options [16:50]-The importance of introducing science to young children, especially preschoolers [18:00]-First misunderstanding about education: "We need to be knowledgeable about something in order to teach it... That is not what education is" [22:05]-Second misunderstanding about education: "That public schoolteachers have the specialist knowledge that they need to be able to educate children. I believe that the specialist knowledge that they have is how to deal with a classroom full of 20 or 30 children, all at different stages and all coming from different backgrounds. ... We don't have to deal with that in home education" [23:00]-How to model learning to your children instead of just giving them answers [24:05]-Teaching your children how to read, research, and reason [26:00]Resource #1: https://books.qrx.group/ (Craig's website)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in May and beyond include:Our GROW workshop for homeschool moms will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at Grace Point Baptist Church in KCMO. Join KC Connected Homeschool in creating a make-and-take wooden “Welcome” sign and discussing the value of joy-filled friendships. A variety of sweet and savory snacks and drinks will also be provided. Registration is limited to 24 moms.The homeschool high school class of 2024 will celebrate with a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 17, at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe.Our Used Curriculum Sale on Tuesday, June 11. It will be 6-8 p.m. at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene on State Line Road in Kansas City, MO. Admission is free for all buyers!If homeschooling is new to you, come to our free “How to Homeschool” workshop at 5 p.m. before the sale. This workshop will help you set expectations, meet legal requirements, tailor curriculum, and choose homeschool styles for your unique family. You'll leave with the resources and confidence you need to begin or continue your homeschool journey! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Gracie Neland graduated high school with MPE - following her mother, who is also an MPE alumna! Gracie explains what a homeschool graduation ceremony can look like, as well as her future career plans.-How Gracie got involved in the MPE graduation class of 2022 [1:02]-Some thoughts on what to expect and how to prepare for the ceremony [3:28]-The rose ceremony and how it celebrates those who have helped each graduate [5:46]-Other highlights such as parental blessings and senior tables at the reception [8:30]-Gracie's goal to be a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), internship working with girls at risk going into the foster care system, and special-needs associate position at Lenexa Baptist Church [10:25]-Her experience being homeschooled and how that affected her education before and after graduation [12:18]-Gracie's family ministry with the homeless [14:35]-How a family friend suggested occupational therapy and shaped Gracie's career path [16:40]-Tips for the class of 2024 and future classes [19:40]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/graduation/ (MPE's Homeschool Graduation Ceremony)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in April and beyond include:* Our April 5-6 conference is almost here! Some action items to best prepare are:* If you haven’t already signed up, this is your last chance to do so before end of day Sunday, March 31, at the earlybird rate. After April 1, Family membership will reflect the $75 at-the-door admission rate.* If your child can benefit from a sensory-motor screening (ages 3-6), speech screening (K-5th grade), or reading screening (K-5th grade), please sign up before end of day Friday, March 29. * Check out our conference speakers and workshop schedule. Our conference speakers have a huge wealth of knowledge and expertise they're sharing with us across several workshop tracks, which include Unique Learners with Special Needs, Homeschooling High School, and New to Homeschooling. You can check out their bios, session titles, and more either on our website or our free mobile app. * Additionally, we have a prepaid conference recordings special that ends April 5.* We also have our current vendor list online! Check out our popular silent auction and scavenger hunt as well.* Calling the class of 2025! Come learn what an MPE graduation is all about on April 8 at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe. Our juniors get an opportunity to serve the seniors at this year’s graduation ceremony May 17. Explore ways to be a part of this event, getting ready to graduate, and so much more.* Our next Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Weeks are set for May 5-17.* Save the date for our Used Curriculum Sale on Tuesday, June 11. It will be 6-8 p.m. at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene on State Line Road in Kansas City, MO. Admission is free for all buyers! Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Is your child a unique learner? Special education teacher and homeschooler Suzanne Wandling explores "red flags" or behaviors that can indicate developmental delays, dyslexia, or other special needs your child may have. She also discusses resources to help homeschool families, including screenings at the April 5-6 conference and curriculum fair.-How Suzanne started helping homeschool families [1:10]-Some red flags to indicate your child is a unique learner [4:15]-How to find a quality provider or profesional to help with special needs [6:00]-Discussing myths about dyslexia [8:20]-Why there is no correlation between spelling ability and intelligence, and what that means for a child who has dyslexia [13:15]-Learning screenings at the conference: speech and language, sensory motor skills, and reading [15:00]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair)Resource #2: Homeschoolers.com (Suzanne Wandling's website)Resource #3: Exploring homeschool resources in the KC area and beyondContinue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in March and beyond include:* School of Economics field trip on March 13. Registration has closed, but you can sign up for next year’s waitlist by emailing our office at [email protected].* Learning screenings at our April 5-6 homeschool conference and curriculum fair. A screening is a short survey of a child to determine whether a more in-depth evaluation is recommended. The three categories are Speech (from K-5th grade) by a certified speech-language pathologist, Sensory-Motor (for ages 3-6 years old) by an occupational therapist practitioner, and Reading (for K-5th grade). Please sign up for screenings as soon as possible as our availability is limited.* We also have a few last-minute vendor booths available at our conference. If you're a vendor who caters to the homeschool community or you have a vendor you'd like to see there, please check our website as soon as possible. We also keep a few discounted booths just for homeschool students, ages 13 and up, in our Youth Entrepreneurial Program or YEP.* Conference speaker lineup and workshop schedule. Our conference speakers have a huge wealth of knowledge and expertise they're sharing with us across several workshop tracks, which include Unique Learners with Special Needs, Homeschooling High School, and New to Homeschooling. You can check out their bios, session titles, and more either on our website or our free mobile app. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Not too long ago, homeschooling wasn't legal in all 50 states. Zan Tyler explains how she started homeschooling in 1984 and how the movement has changed. She also answers questions from our audience about navigating curriculum, co-ops & more!-How Zan and Joe Tyler started homeschooling [1:01]-Why February is such a hard season for homeschool moms [5:48]-Raising children to be others-centric, not self-centered [7:03]-How homeschooling has changed over her 21+ years of experience [14:05]-Advice for homeschoolers if their children ask to go to "real" school [18:00]-Q: Do you think generations now are blessed or hindered by so many curriculum choices and pressures? [22:19]-Thoughts on choosing the best co-op or program for your family [24:44]-Tips for moms working part-time or full-time jobs in addition to homeschooling [28:39]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/homeschool-conference/ (Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair)Resource #2: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/ (Women’s Encouragement Day)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in February and beyond include:* Homeschool Capitol Day will be Feb. 1. In addition to meeting with your own state legislators, you can also enjoy the wit and wisdom of our special guest speaker, Andrew Pudewa of the Institute for Excellence in Writing! If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Laporte at [email protected].* We’re having a Homeschool Dads Night Out BBQ dinner Feb. 2. Dads will enjoy fellowship, a competition-caliber BBQ dinner, a message from Joe Tyler, and dessert. All homeschool dads (or those considering homeschooling) are welcome! * Our Women’s Encouragement Day will be the next day, Feb. 3, at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. * Registration for our children’s MPEKIDS conference program for ages 5-12 is open. We encourage you to sign up before Feb. 10 for earlybird special pricing.* Save the date for our homeschool conference & curriculum fair on April 5-6 at the KCI Expo Center. If you know of vendors you want to see there, please invite them to our conference. Vendor applications are still being processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

We all can use a little help during the cold winter months of homeschool! Jordan Gabler explores Women's Encouragement Day and how it can inspire, refresh and help moms to get through the end of the school year.-What is Women’s Encouragement Day? [1:35]-How it encourages and refreshes “the weary mother” [2:56]-Jordan’s personal highlights [3:40]-Tips for first-time attendees [4:55]-This year’s lineup - Zan Tyler and “Refined: A homeschool mom’s call to trust” [6:40]-The history behind homeschooling and how it wasn’t even legal at one point [8:20]-What the day looks like [9:10]Resource #1: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/events/womens-encouragement-day/ (Women’s Encouragement Day)Resource #2: https://www.facebook.com/events/339157135330750 (Facebook Live with Zan Tyler)Continue the conversation!Website: https://midwesthomeschoolers.org/Email: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/midwestparenteducators/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpeinkc/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpeinkcPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mpeinkc/ Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe

Upcoming events in January and beyond include:* Our Facebook Live with Zan Tyler is Jan. 9. Zan is a featured speaker for both our Women’s Encouragement Day in February and conference in April!* Homeschool Capitol Day will be Feb. 1. In addition to meeting with your own state legislators, you can also enjoy the wit and wisdom of our special guest speaker, Andrew Pudewa of the Institute for Excellence in Writing! If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Laporte at [email protected].* We’re having a Homeschool Dads Night Out BBQ dinner Feb. 2. Dads will enjoy fellowship, a competition-caliber BBQ dinner, a message from Joe Tyler, and dessert. All homeschool dads (or those considering homeschooling) are welcome! * Our Women’s Encouragement Day will be the next day, Feb. 3, at Journey Bible Church in Olathe. Registration is open, and earlybird pricing ends Jan. 5. Seats are limited, so make sure you sign up now for the best deal!* We’re planning our first ever homeschool business field trip to the School of Economics in Blue Springs! This is a two-day field trip. The first day is Preparation day on March 1 at Hope Family Fellowship in KCK. Students will work with their assigned teams to make decisions on their products and design a marketing strategy. The actual Business Day is March 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We need a minimum of 60 students to sign up by Feb. 15, so please register as soon as possible to help our organizers make this first field trip a success!* Save the date for our homeschool conference & curriculum fair on April 5-6 at the KCI Expo Center. Registration for our children’s program for ages 5-12 will open Jan. 13. We encourage you to sign up before Feb. 10 for the early bird special pricing. Get full access to Homeschool Hints at homeschoolhints.substack.com/subscribe