Homeschooling with Technology

324: Free Online Curriculum In this episode, Meryl shares strategies and specific resources for stretching your homeschool budget by leveraging high-quality free curriculum. You’ll hear about four “all-in-one” programs, dozens of subject-specific tools, how to snag freebies from vendors, and tips for DIYing your own courses with AI assistance. 1. “All-in-One” Homeschool Curricula These comprehensive […] The post Free online curriculum appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

323: Innovative Ways to Use Google Talking Tours In this episode we take a deep dive into Google Talking Tours, an AI-powered tool from Google Arts & Culture that lets users explore landmarks and cultural sites around the world with automatically narrated tours. Whether you’re teaching geography, history, writing, photography, or just looking for an […] The post Innovative Ways to use Google Talking Tours appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

  This is a replay of episode 187. Go to that episode for the show notes.   The post Replay: How to use Movies in your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

322 : Online help for homeschool children with learning challenges Episode Summary: In this episode, Meryl chats with Krisa Wynn about Homeschool Heroes, an online platform designed to support homeschool families with children who have learning challenges — or as they call them, “unique learners.” Krisa shares how the platform provides free and paid resources, […] The post Online help for homeschool children with learning challenges appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

321: Why Math Should Be Fun In this episode, host Meryl van der Merwe is joined by Mina Neuberg from Wonder Math, to explore why making math fun is essential. Topics Covered: The connection between math and technology careers Why so many students and parents struggle with math anxiety How a growth mindset can transform […] The post Why Math Should Be Fun appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

  This is a replay of episode 127. Go to that episode for the show notes.     The post Replay: Online Poetry Resources appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

320: Virtual Vacation: Travel the World Without a Passport Summer is almost here, and while a real vacation might still be a few weeks away, you and your homeschoolers can start exploring the world right now—take a virtual vacation! In this episode, discover Virtual Vacation, a free and engaging website that lets you experience cities […] The post Virtual Vacation: Travel the World Without a Passport appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

319: Teaching Your Children How to Troubleshoot Tech We’ve all faced tech frustrations and needed to troubleshoot tech —whether it’s a stubborn printer, glitchy software, or a bug on your website. As homeschoolers, we have the unique advantage of turning these moments into powerful, real-life learning experiences. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why modeling tech […] The post Teaching Your Children How to Troubleshoot Tech appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

318: Free Online Tools to Study the U.S. Constitution Do you really know what the U.S. Constitution says? In today’s episode, Meryl welcomes back veteran homeschooler Vicki Tillman to share free and engaging online tools to study the constitution to help homeschoolers (and parents!) better understand this foundational document. Resources Mentioned: Vicki’s 30-Day Constitution Challengehttps://vickitillmancoaching.com/ […] The post Free Online Tools to Study the U.S. Constitution appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

317: Using Khan Academy in your Homeschool In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we explore the many ways homeschoolers can use Khan Academy. While many may be familiar with Khan Academy for math practice, there are many other subjects and tools available that can supplement and enrich a homeschool curriculum. What You’ll Learn in […] The post Using Khan Academy in your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

316: Gamify History with Mission US Games   In this episode, we’re diving into how you can gamify history with Mission US games. This immersive, interactive resource has been a favorite of mine for years, and I’m excited to revisit it, especially since they’ve updated their offerings. What is Mission US? Mission US is a […] The post Gamify History with Mission US Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

315: Google Arts and Culture Games In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we dive into the interactive games and activities available through Google Arts & Culture. Resources Mentioned: Google Arts & Culture – Play Section   Key Highlights: Introduction to Google Arts & Culture Games: Overview of the “Play” section on the platform. How […] The post Google Arts and Culture Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

314: Google Arts and Culture Google Arts and Culture is a resource I’ve mentioned before, but in this episode we dive into the vast offerings on the site’s homepage. Next week, I’ll explore the games and interactive experiences under the “Play” section. Whether you’re looking for a free art curriculum, a quick educational activity, or […] The post Google Arts and Culture appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

313: 3D Modeling with Blender: A Teen’s Perspective   In this episode, Meryl is joined by teen guest Matthew Jurison, who shares his experiences using Blender, a free 3D modeling and visual effects software. Matthew, a self-taught Blender enthusiast with years of experience, discusses how he got started, the skills he’s developed, and why Blender […] The post 3D Modeling with Blender: A Teen’s Perspective appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

312: Using AI as a Study Tool In this episode, we look at various AI resources and how they can be effective study tools. Please note there are previous podcast episode that go into more detail about all of these tools. Featured AI Tools & Applications: ChatGPT: Creating custom practice questions at different difficulty levels […] The post Using AI as a Study Tool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

311: 3 Online Cybersecurity Games These online cybersecurity games are a great way to teach students about how to keep safe online – and what exactly is involved in careers in this field. Games Reviewed: Gandalf Players try to trick Gandalf into revealing passwords across multiple levels Involves critical thinking and AI prompting skills […] The post 3 Online Cybersecurity Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

310: New Online Geography Games This episode features 7 new online geography games – new to me at least – but some are very new and use AI technology to increase the fun. All are free and can be played with no sign in required. Many allow you to create private rooms to play in. […] The post New Online Geography Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

309: Drawing Made Easy with Free Online Tools In this episode, we’re exploring free online tools to make drawing fun and accessible for homeschoolers of all ages. Whether your child is a budding artist or you’re just looking for a creative activity to incorporate into your homeschool routine, these four resources offer a variety of […] The post Drawing Made Easy with Free Online Tools appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

308:Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT Kid Safe GPT is a custom GPT that helps parents navigate the risks in online games and apps and social media sites Key Highlights: Common Sense Media: This website has a page about online games and includes info on risks. The list of games it covers is fairly […] The post Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

307: Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers Today’s episode is all about Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers. If you’re new to AI tools like ChatGPT, I recommend starting with Episode 306: Starting Out with AI in Your Homeschool, where I introduce the basics. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What is prompting? […] The post Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

306: Getting started with AI in your homeschool Happy New Year! 🎉 As we kick off 2025, it’s clear that AI is set to continue transforming our world—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we’re diving into how you can begin integrating AI into your homeschool. Whether you’re completely […] The post Getting started with AI in your homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

305: Last Minute Digital Gift Ideas Forgotten to get gifts for everyone? Or just run out of ideas? These unique digital gift ideas are ones homeschool families will love to give or receive! Here are the 12 ideas I mention in this episode. Online Escape Room Experiences Interactive virtual escape rooms themed a the whole […] The post Last Minute Digital Gift Ideas appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

304: AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep This episode covers AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep. Lots of ways to save time on tasks so you can spend time with family and friends. 1. Creating a Detailed Schedule Demonstrated using ChatGPT Example prompt: Sharing entire holiday to-do list Benefits: Breaks down overwhelming tasks Creates day-by-day […] The post AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

303: 2024 Hour of Code Highlights In this episode, we explore highlights from the 2024 Hour of Code, an initiative during Computer Science Education Week to introduce students (and even parents!) to coding in fun and engaging ways. Whether your children are new to coding or already experienced, there’s something here for everyone. What is […] The post 2024 Hour of Code Highlights appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

302: Gaming Gift Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank Heidi Lathram, is a homeschooler, homesteader, gamer, and educator with over 15 years of teaching experience and she share gaming gift ideas your children will love – and are affordable. Below are links to various things Heidi mentioned in the podcast – you need to listen […] The post Gaming Gift Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

301: Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers   This episode with guest Tauna Meyer from Proverbial Homemaker discusses Lexercise, a tech tool designed to help homeschooling families with children who have dyslexia. Tauna is sponsored by Lexercise but is really seeing a difference with her son. Key Points: Homeschooling a child with […] The post Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

300: Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses Join us as we celebrate the 300th episode of Homeschooling with Technology! Host Meryl van der Merwe highlights 15 top tech tools she uses in both her online classes and everyday life. Each tool has been featured at some point over the podcast’s […] The post Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

299: Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool Crystin Morris, a homeschool mom and founder of Delightfully Feasting, shares ideas on how to approach tech literacy in a homeschool environment. She provides practical guidance for integrating tech skills into everyday learning while maintaining a balanced, holistic approach. Key Tech Literacy Skills Kristen outlines three foundational skills […] The post Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

298: Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features   Upcoming Episode Celebration: Episode 300 is just around the corner! Tune in when it releases to enjoy freebies, discounts, and fun activities. Episode Highlights: Overview of Instagram’s New Safety Features for Teens Instagram has introduced several safety protocols for users aged 13-18, defaulting their accounts to private to […] The post Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

297: AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM In this episode, we look at an exciting tool that can revolutionize how homeschoolers approach research and learning: Notebook LM, an AI-powered app developed by Google. In This Episode: What is Notebook LM? It is an AI-powered research tool available for free from Google. It’s built on the Gemini […] The post AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

296: 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI   In this episode we look at 10 good ways for students to use AI. Last week, weshared 10 bad ways students might use AI. If you haven’t listened to the previous episode, check it out for full context, but you can also jump into this […] The post 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

295: 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI We explore “10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI.” We’re focusing on how NOT to use AI tools. As AI becomes a major part of our children’s future, it’s crucial that we teach them the right ways to engage with it. Key Takeaways from the […] The post 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

294: Online Contests for Students In this episode, we explore a variety of online contests for students that homeschoolers can participate in. These contests provide great opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and even win prizes. Contests Mentioned in This Episode: PicoCTF A cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) contest for ages 13 […] The post Online Contests for Students appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

293: Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed In this episode,guest Melissa Muir, shares how she uses Nearpod, an incredible tool that can transform your homeschooling experience. Melissa has been homeschooling her children in Ecuador for 13 years. She works with online teachers and homeschoolers, providing resources, self-paced classes, and tech-based tools to […] The post Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

292: Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce In this episode, we explore the potential of remote tech careers in Salesforce for homeschool parents and teens. Our guest, Bradley Rice, shares insights on why Salesforce could be a great fit for the homeschooling community. Key Points Introduction to Salesforce What […] The post Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

291: MathCounts   Meryl continues her conversation with Hayley Story, who runs a local homeschool math club. Last week, Hayley shared details about three math contests, and in this episode, she dives into the final one: MathCounts. Hayley provides an overview of the competition, her experience as a first-time coach, and tips for homeschool parents […] The post MathCounts appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

290: Math Contests Revisited In this episode of the Homeschooling with Technology podcast, we revisit the topic of math contests with guest Haley Story. This episode builds on Haley’s previous discussion from Episode 243 Math Contests, where she introduced listeners to the topic. Now, with a year of experience running multiple contests, Haley shares valuable […] The post Math Contests Revisited appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

289: Create your own Digital Planner In this episode, we discuss various tools and methods to create your own digital planner, perfect for homeschooling or managing other aspects of life. We mention practical and customizable options like Google Calendar, Google Sheets, and Trello, and then talk about more visually appealing solutions using Canva and SlidesMania. […] The post Create your own Digital Planner appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

288: Search and Research in the AI era In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of search and research in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). We reflect on the shift from traditional search engines like Google and Bing to the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other large language models […] The post Search and Research in the AI era appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

287: Bringing History to Life with Technology If your children find history boring, here are 8 ideas on bringing history to life with technology Videos: Use YouTube channels, documentaries, and docudramas to visualize historical events. Battle simulation videos and feature movies can also provide an immersive experience. Compare movies to actual historical facts for a […] The post Bringing History to Life with Technology appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

286: Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024 What are the essential computer skills for students in 2024? These are 5 that are covered in this episode. Understanding Computers and How They Work: Importance of knowing the basics of computers. Learn about binary, algorithmic thinking etc Practical examples and benefits of understanding computer fundamentals. Learning […] The post Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

285: Class Companion: an AI Tool for improving writing This episode focuses on Class Companion, an AI tool for improving writing skills. Features of Class Companion: Suitable for all ages and subjects, including English, social sciences, and Spanish. Offers pre-made assignments and the ability to create custom ones. AI provides feedback on organization, thesis statements, […] The post Class Companion: an AI Tool for improving writing appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

284: YouTube Channels to Supplement Your Homeschool History Curriculum These are all YouTube channels you can use to supplement your homeschool history curriculum and make history lessons more engaging for students For even more ideas, visit this Facebook post by the Homeschool Historian. The History Channel: Offers a wide range of history-related content, including documentaries and […] The post YouTube Channels to Supplement Your Homeschool History Curriculum appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

283: Online Resources for Learning Computer Science Computer science encompasses more than just coding and programming; it includes history, hardware, software, algorithms, computational thinking, the internet, cybersecurity, and more. Highlights and Resources: ScienceTrek.org A fun and interactive site with various options including games Includes books and facts that cover the history of computers, how they […] The post Online Resources for Learning Computer Science appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

  282: Online Olympic Resources for Homeschoolers Here are several online Olympic resources that will help you extend the excitement of the games into educational opportunities for your children. From interactive apps and science videos to music lessons and virtual museum tours, we’ve got a variety of tools to make the most of the Olympic […] The post Online Olympic Resources for Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Episode 281: Is Writing Proficiency Still Important in the AI Era? Guest Jennie Miller, English Teacher at FundaFunda Academy, shares her thoughts on the relevance of writing proficiency in the AI era. Jennie’s Classes: Freshman English: An introductory high school English class focused on learning how to write academically and analyze classic and contemporary literature […] The post Is Writing Proficiency still important in the AI era? appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

280: Board games that promote STEM skills Guest Haley Story shares board games that promote STEM skills – and she has many ideas for all ages. Why board games? A fun family time Great for summer Also some solo games for screen-free time The kinds of board games she discusses All of these games involve […] The post Board games that promote STEM skills appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

279: The Fourth Industrial Revolution and your homeschool   This episode discusses how we are living in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution driven by technologies like AI, nanotech, blockchain, Internet of Things, etc. and how this affects our homeschool The 4th Industrial Revolution started around 2011 and is characterized by AI, IoT, nanotech […] The post The Fourth Industrial Revolution and your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

278: Learning with Micro:bit Guest Joseph Lemke shares with us how he is learning with Micro:bit and why this is a great way for students to explore coding. What is a Micro:bit? programmable microcontroller, like a tiny computer has built in sensors like temperature, gyroscope, compass, microphone, speaker, touch button, blue tooth antennae to talk […] The post Learning with Micro:bit appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

277: Finding and Using Online Classes for Homeschooling Effectively In this episode we look at the importance of finding and using online classes as part of homeschooling effectively. Choosing the Right Online Class: Determine your goals and what’s best for your children. Consider your children’s learning styles and your budget. Decide on the level of […] The post Finding and Using Online Classes for Homeschooling Effectively appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.