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Homeschool Your Way

Homeschool Your Way

By BookShark

With the right tools and the right mindset, homeschooling is nothing to be intimidated about! We’ll admit that homeschooling isn’t for everyone. But if you want to homeschool -- or really need to homeschool—you can do it! And best of all, you can do it your own way!

Wouldn’t you love to have experienced homeschoolers, cheering you along with insider secrets? Yes? Then you’ll love this podcast! The hosts know homeschooling is not one-size-fits-all. So in each episode, they’ll bring you the coolest methods and the most fascinating guests to help you find your way—the best way—to homeschool.
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HOW TO TEACH A JOYOUS MATH THAT SOLVES REAL PROBLEMS

Homeschool Your WayNov 01, 2022

00:00
36:27
JOY IN THE JOURNEY

JOY IN THE JOURNEY

EPISODE 171 | Ever wondered what it’s like to use BookShark? Today’s guest Pamela has been an experienced user of BookShark for over 7 years. Listen in as she and Janna provide valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of homeschooling. Their appreciation of BookShark for its comprehensive curriculum and high-quality literature fosters a love for learning and critical thinking skills. However, homeschooling can present challenges such as balancing different grade levels and seeking socialization opportunities. Despite these challenges, Pamela's experience with BookShark has been overwhelmingly positive, witnessing academic and personal growth in her child. Her insights offer valuable guidance for those considering BookShark or homeschooling.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Pamela Osorno, was born and raised in the south side of Chicago. Approaching 50 years of age, she’s been homeschooling her children from the beginning with the BookShark curriculum and they are thriving! As a family, They have adjusted to a life of homeschooling with Pamela as the main educator working primarily with BookShark, Her husband works from home and is a strong proponent of teaching life skills to their girls who are learning and finding their own passions. 

QUOTABLES | 

Homeschooling journey and experiences with BookShark. (0:00)

Homeschooling benefits and challenges during COVID-19. (4:39)

Balancing homeschooling and extracurricular activities. (12:32)

Homeschooling and prioritizing quality time with family. (18:02)

Homeschooling and the value of books in a digital age. (22:46)

Homeschooling, learning, and personal growth. (26:59)

Homeschooling benefits and challenges. (31:09)

Mar 26, 202441:14
DEMYSTIFY SINGAPORE MATH

DEMYSTIFY SINGAPORE MATH

EPISODE 170 | Ever wish a math curriculum would be made easier? Now it has been! The 2022 edition of Singapore Math, authored by U.S. homeschoolers, maintains the original curriculum's core principles while catering to American educational needs. It emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and a sequential approach to learning. With a focus on hands-on instruction and adaptability to various learning environments, this edition combines Singapore's rigorous pedagogy with insights from homeschooling. It equips students with a solid foundation in mathematics and essential problem-solving skills, making it relevant and effective in diverse educational settings. Listen in as Janna and her guest Jessica discuss everything Math, particularly Singapore Math. 


ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jessica Kaminski, M.Ed. is an educator, author, and mom of three from Tennessee. She is the founder of Math with Purpose where she aims to provide teaching support, resources, and virtual math instruction to make your math curriculum work for any student. As the author of Math in Focus 2020 Third Grade Teacher's Edition, the co-author of Primary Mathematics 2022 Second-Fifth Grade Teacher's Editions, and the author of Primary Mathematics 2022 Second-Fifth Grade Home Instructors Guides, Jessica understands how the Singapore pedagogy should be implemented with over 18 years of math experience. Her goal is to provide educators of any type with the support necessary to implement these internationally recognized teaching strategies to help students feel confident in mathematics.

QUOTABLES | 

Singapore Math and its benefits for homeschooling families. (0:00)

Homeschooling and math education. (1:55)

Math as a language and its practical applications. (3:56)

Math education and problem-solving strategies. (6:51)

Math education and its evolution. (9:42)

Updated Singapore math curriculum and its benefits for homeschooling families. (14:23)

Singapore Math curriculum and its new edition. (18:45)

Homeschooling math with manipulatives. (24:10)

Using manipulatives in math education. (28:09)

Singapore math and homeschooling tips. (33:41)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 19, 202440:12
HOMESCHOOL SEASON

HOMESCHOOL SEASON

EPISODE 169 |  The homeschooling journey involves not only academic endeavors but also the cultivation of life skills and parenting strategies. Navigating through the intricate terrain of homeschooling, parents often encounter challenges that become invaluable lessons in the realm of both education and life. The homeschooling journey is a dynamic process that requires adaptability, patience, and a willingness to reassess approaches and expectations. Homeschool conventions provide a platform for sharing experiences, addressing challenges, and learning from the collective wisdom of the homeschooling community. Ultimately, the homeschooling journey becomes a profound exploration of not just academics, but also the continuous evolution of effective parenting strategies, life skills, and the realization that challenges are stepping stones to growth and success. Join Janna with her guest Vicki Miller as they discuss homeschooling, conventions, family, and more.

ABOUT OUR GUEST |  Vicki Miller is the wife to one and the mom to 5, with four living children.  She has homeschooled all of her children from beginning to end...In May, her homeschool journey will end.  Transitioning out of homeschooling brings mixed emotions, but it's also a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth and new experiences and she is here for it ALL! While it seems like a flash, it was, in fact, a flash.  Learning and exploring alongside her children was her greatest gift. She is like all the moms/wives out there who want the best home environment for their family and LOVE to prevail in all situations.  

QUOTABLES |

Homeschooling journey and convention tips. (0:00)

Homeschooling, life skills, and parenting. (3:30)

Parenting and homeschooling challenges and lessons learned. (8:44)

Homeschooling approaches and expectations. (19:34)

Homeschooling journey, challenges, and lessons learned. (25:52)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 12, 202434:12
CHICKENLANDIA: WHAT CAN HOMESCHOOLERS LEARN FROM CHICKENS

CHICKENLANDIA: WHAT CAN HOMESCHOOLERS LEARN FROM CHICKENS

EPISODE 168 | Chickens and Homeschooling?! Can you seamlessly intertwine the rich tapestry of homeschooling, family heritage, and the delightful world of chickens? Delia Monterosso's unique approach to education involves not only academic pursuits but also instilling values of responsibility and connection with nature through the care of these feathered companions. As she navigates the dual realms of chicken-keeping and homeschooling, Delia imparts invaluable lessons to her children, cultivating a deep understanding of the cycle of life through the nurturing of backyard chickens. Join Janna as Delia shares tips and advice with other families, encouraging them to embrace this holistic and enriching lifestyle.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Dalia Monterroso, also known as The President of Chickenlandia, is a backyard chicken educator, entertainer, and author. When she’s not teaching in-person classes or doing seminars, you can find her on the popular YouTube Channel Welcome to Chickenlandia, her top-rated podcast Bawk Tawk, or her online course Backyard Chickens 101: A Chicken Course for Everyone. In 2023, Dalia published her first book Let’s All Keep Chickens! A Down-to-Earth Guide to Natural Practices for Healthier Birds and a Happier World (Storey Publishing). In this beginner and intermediate guide, Dalia aims to not only share the ins and outs of chicken keeping but also to bring people together through an age-old practice common to almost all of our ancestry. To learn more about Dalia’s philosophy and vision, you can watch her 2017 TEDx Talk "I Dream of Chickens," which she delivered at Western Washington University. Dalia is a dynamic and engaging speaker who believes that being among her flock has brought peace and joy into her life. She wishes to share that peace and joy with everyone she meets. 

QUOTABLES | 

Chicken farming and homeschooling with Delia Monterosso. (0:04)

Homeschooling, family heritage, and chickens. (7:48)

Raising responsible kids through chicken care. (12:38)

Homeschooling, chickens, and learning. (17:44)

Chicken-keeping and homeschooling for all. (22:38)

Raising backyard chickens and embracing the cycle of life. (28:48)

Homeschooling and chickens with tips and advice.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 05, 202437:34
A PATH OF HOMESCHOOL SUCCESS

A PATH OF HOMESCHOOL SUCCESS

EPISODE 167 | As parents guide their children through the enriching experience of homeschooling, they open doors to a myriad of possibilities beyond the traditional classroom setting. Nurturing a personalized and flexible educational approach, homeschooling empowers parents to support their children's unique learning styles and interests. The successes that emerge from this journey are a testament to the unwavering dedication of parents who actively engage in their children's education. The guiding influence of dedicated parents continues to be a driving force, enabling their children to thrive in higher education, pursue entrepreneurial ventures, or seamlessly integrate into the workforce. Join Janna and her guest Jennifer Willis in part two of Homeschool Success and hear how Jennifer has taken charge of guiding her children into into the educational avenue that suits them the best.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jennifer Willis has found enduring joy in a marriage that spans over three decades, cherishing the bond with her best friend and perfect match, John. Jennifer's greatest pride and source of fulfillment, however, lies in her role as the mother of 11 remarkable children. She has embraced the challenges and joys of parenting with grace and enthusiasm. Jennifer's legacy extends beyond her marriage and motherhood, reflecting a life dedicated to love, family, and the meaningful pursuit of raising a future generation grounded in shared values and enduring bonds.

QUOTABLES | 

Homeschooling philosophy and lifestyle. (0:00)

Homeschooling and unconventional paths to success. (8:44)

Parenting and homeschooling with diverse interests and abilities. (13:01)

Helping children find their passions and interests. (18:20)

Homeschooling, community support, and balancing work and play. (23:45)

Homeschooling, family, and joy in learning. (31:46) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Feb 27, 202438:38
A HOMESCHOOL SUCCESS

A HOMESCHOOL SUCCESS

EPISODE 166| Beyond the realm of homeschooling lies a vast landscape of opportunities and successes awaiting those who have embarked on this unique educational journey. The flexibility and individualized attention inherent in homeschooling empower students to cultivate a love for learning, critical thinking, and self-motivation. Armed with these foundational attributes, homeschool graduates are well-equipped to navigate the diverse pathways that lie ahead, whether it be higher education, entrepreneurial pursuits, or entry into the workforce. Listen in as Janna and her guest Jaylee Willis discuss homeschooling and life after homeschooling and what that looks like for Jaylee.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Jaylee Willis is a math educator who was raised in a homeschooling family and has worked with homeschooled families for over 7 years as an online middle school and high school math teacher. She currently teaches at her local university and is in the process of developing an online math curriculum for homeschool families that makes math fun, easy, and enjoyable to learn. You can connect with her and sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.middletonmath.com.

QUOTABLES | 

Homeschooling journey and success with a university professor. (0:04)

Homeschooling and its benefits with a homeschooled university professor. (2:04)

Homeschooling and learning at own pace. (10:04)

Teaching and learning with siblings. (15:27)

Homeschooling benefits and challenges. (18:36)

Homeschooling and math education. (22:43)

Math education and homeschooling with a university math professor. (28:51)

📳This video is a podcast here: https://youtu.be/myxFHCX5mQs

👀Read the full transcript here: https://www.bookshark.com/blog/a-homeschool-success

LISTENER COUPON CODE Request your coupon code to use on any purchase at bookshark.com: https://www.bookshark.com/podcast-5 📘 Request a homeschool curriculum catalog here: https://www.bookshark.com/catalog/

Feb 20, 202435:06
ROAD SCHOOLING

ROAD SCHOOLING

EPISODE 165 | Ever dreamed of just packing up and leaving it all behind?  That’s exactly what the Tilby’s did in 2018. From traveling along the concrete lines of pavement to flipping RV’s with the children, they took their lives and their five children on the road and have documented their journey along the way. Join Janna as she and Renee discuss life on the road and life’s expectations.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | 

Renee Tilby is a mom of 5, a second-generation homeschooler, full-time RVer, and passionate learner of anything and everything. In 2018 Renee and her family decided to pack up their lives on a 5 acre hobby farm, move into an RV, and have a roadschooling adventure for a year or two. That year or two turned into 6 when learning on the road created the perfect environment to foster a love of learning, a broad world view, and unparalleled hands-on educational experiences.

QUOTABLES |

Homeschooling on the road with a family. (0:04)

Homeschooling and traveling with a family of seven. (1:12)

RV renovations, homeschooling, and empowering women. (5:16)

Homeschooling and its benefits. (10:46)

Unconventional upbringing and breaking free from societal expectations. (16:08)

Unconventional parenting approaches and embracing individuality. (22:40)

Homeschooling fears and challenges. (26:07)

Homeschooling and math struggles. (29:40)

Homeschooling, learning, and personal growth. (33:56)
Homeschooling and encouraging creativity in children. (38:36) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark.
Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Feb 13, 202444:23
HOMESCHOOL YOUR WAY: EUROPEAN EDITION

HOMESCHOOL YOUR WAY: EUROPEAN EDITION

EPISODE 164| 

Homeschooling has challenges, finding support shouldn't to be one of them. Support can help us when the homeschool day proves particularly tough. If you find yourself in an environment where you don’t have support, create your own!  Join Janna as she chats with Laura, a mother who homeschools in Europe.  Listen in Laura discusses the challenges and joys of homeschooling and how she now shares her knowledge through the her blog, Monkeyandmom.com.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Laura is a homeschooling mom from Europe and the creator of the blog Monkey And Mom. Laura has been homeschooling her son, Marc, for 7 years, delving deep into the world of STEM for gifted learners. Her journey has been one of discovery and dedication, blending nurturing, patience, and a flexible, creative approach to education. Through her blog, Laura shares an eclectic mix of homeschooling tips, resources, and fun printables, all born from her hands-on experience. Whether you’re a parent to an only child, a homeschooler looking for fresh ideas, or just beginning your homeschooling journey, Laura's insights are sure to inspire and guide. She's here to share her wealth of knowledge and experiences, providing valuable resources and encouragement for fellow homeschoolers.

QUOTABLES

Homeschooling with a European mom using an American curriculum. (0:04)

Homeschooling in Romania with an English-speaking family. (2:00)

Homeschooling and language learning. (8:31)

Homeschooling challenges and conviction. (14:20)

Homeschooling, doubts, and reaching academic goals. (19:08)

Eclectic homeschooling and child-led learning. (25:02)

Homeschooling, growth mindset, and balancing academics and personal interests. (32:50)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Feb 06, 202439:29
LEARNING TRAJECTORY

LEARNING TRAJECTORY

EPISODE 163 | How do you create interest in the process of writing and face the challenges from younger learners overwhelmed with forming sentences to college applicants dealing with high-stakes writing? Join Janna and her guest Dustin Stevens, Founder of Good English Tutors as they discuss the importance of prewriting, brainstorming, and organizing ideas through outlining before drafting. Learn how all the steps of the writing process involves revising, editing, and finalizing, with the added step of sharing or publishing serve as a powerful motivator for students.

ABOUT OUR GUEST| Dustin Stevens is the father of two hilarious, keen-minded boys. He has been teaching writing for over a decade. As someone who has seen its benefits firsthand, Dustin advocates for student publishing in his writings and speaking engagements. He leads a small team of big-hearted educators at goodenglishtutors.com

Student publishing form: https://www.goodenglishtutors.com/post/publish-your-writing-for-student-authors

Here is the link for the free essay guide: https://www.goodenglishtutors.com/guide

QUOTABLES |

English tutoring and homeschooling insights. (0:04)

Tutoring and teaching with a focus on caring for students. (1:16)

Encouraging students to develop a love for writing. (2:58)

Homeschooling challenges and finding intrinsic motivation. (11:46)

Writing process and tips for homeschool parents. (17:36)

Publishing student writing to promote motivation. (23:57)

Essay writing resources for homeschool parents. (30:20)

Using visual aids in homeschooling. (36:27)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Jan 30, 202438:24
FAMILY LEARNING ADVENTURES

FAMILY LEARNING ADVENTURES

EPISODE162 | It can seem like a far off dream right? Traveling to a foreign locale while you and your family speak and become at ease at speaking and conversing in the native tongue. Well that’s exactly what Adelaide Olguin has done or better yet created for her family and for thousands of others with TalkBox.Mom. Join Janna and Adelaide as they chat about incorporating multiple languages into everyday and traveling as a family, the ups and the downs.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Adelaide Olguin, creator and CEO of TalkBox.Mom, realized that parents are actually the most successful language teachers in the world—not professors. When it hit her in an apartment abroad in Brazil back in 2014 with her two little boys and husband, she was able to turn traditional language learning on its head, helping her family to pass up years of trying to speak another language by talking from day one—instead of year 2 or year never.

With her expertise in linguistics, design, marketing, and business, she developed TalkBox.Mom with a team of native-speaking women and launched it in 2016. In 2017, for obvious reasons (aka it works), it became a favorite for homeschool families and then later military families, families with children in language immersion schools, and any family that really wants to be able to use another language. 

QUOTABLES |

Homeschooling highs and lows with a world traveler. (0:04)

Language immersion, travel, and parenting. (1:08)

Travel experiences and failures. (5:32)

Vacation challenges and cultural differences. (10:05)

Homeschooling and language learning in Costa Rica. (15:20)

Language learning and practice with children. (18:17)

Language learning challenges and successes. (23:13)

Language learning obstacles and strategies. (27:10)

Homeschooling and giving children space to fail. (33:43)

Embracing failure in homeschooling. (36:32)

Homeschooling hacks and resources. (39:41)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Jan 23, 202441:16
THINKING IT THROUGH

THINKING IT THROUGH

EPISODE 161| Do you or your child have trouble paying attention or listening, not able to multitask, or difficultly processing new information? It can be tremendously frustrating for every one involved but you can find ways to manage and work with it. Join Janna as she talks about executive dysfunction with her guest, Sam Young, Director of Young Scholars Academy.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Samuel Young, MEd, is a growth-minded, two-time Fulbright Scholar and Director of Young Scholars Academy, a strength-based, talent-focused virtual enrichment center that supports twice-exceptional students and their families. Samuel is a neurodivergent educator who has ADHD. As an ADHD learner, he has a tremendous understanding of, experience in, and respect for all things related to neurodiverse education.

Before founding Young Scholars Academy, Samuel taught in a variety of capacities—including nearly a decade at Bridges Academy—at an array of programs in the US, Europe, and Asia. Travel and culture are near and dear to him. He has led 2e students to over 7 countries for immersive cultural and educational trips.

Samuel has been featured in the documentary 2e2: Teaching The Twice Exceptional, the textbook Understanding The Social and Emotional Lives of Gifted Students, 2nd Ed., Variations Magazine, 2e News, and other publications. Get your free resource here; Creating A Strength-Based Task Management System

QUOTABLES

Executive function skills for homeschooling and learning. (0:00)

Executive functioning and its impact on daily life. (2:08)

Developing children's self-awareness and organization skills. (8:27)

Helping kids develop executive function skills. (11:30)

Homeschooling, productivity, and mental health. (16:36)

Procrastination and productivity strategies. (22:16)

Executive function skills and their impact on productivity. (24:58)

Executive functioning and task management for parents and students. (29:54)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Jan 16, 202436:31
1000 HOURS OUTSIDE

1000 HOURS OUTSIDE

EPISODE 160 | Do modern conveniences make it all too easy to barely take a step outside to enjoy the world around us? Nature provides so many benefits from vitamins to an environment that inspires the imagination. What would it look like if you dedicated yourself and your family to spending 10, 20, 30 minutes or even an hour outside everyday?  Could you do it?  Join Janna and her guest Ginny Yurich as they discuss the global movement of 1000 Hours Outside.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Ginny Yurich is a homeschooling mother of five and founder of 1000 Hours Outside, a global movement designed to reclaim childhood. Along with her husband, Josh, Ginny is a full-time creator and curator of the 1000 Hours Outside lifestyle brand, which includes a robust online store, an app, and books. She also hosts the 1000 Hours Outside weekly podcast. A thought leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children, Ginny lives with her family in the Ann Arbor area of Michigan.

 www.1000hoursoutside.com

QUOTABLES | 

Homeschooling, outdoor activities, and time management. (0:00)

Outdoor activities for families and personal growth. (1:41)

Parenting, homeschooling, and community. (4:51)

The shift towards more indoor childhoods and the impact on mental health. (10:34)

Homeschooling, self-directed learning, and trusting children's abilities. (17:12)

Homeschooling, parenting, and preparing kids for a rapidly changing world. (22:15)

Homeschooling and modeling flexibility and problem-solving skills for children. (28:28)

Homeschooling, community, and learning. (32:05)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Jan 09, 202440:36
RECONNECT

RECONNECT

EPISODE 159 | You’ve seen it. Groups of people all ‘together’ but all on their phones or other devices. They are with people but not really there. Endless hours spent scrolling along. Being intentional about our time spent with others can make a huge difference in our lives! Putting the devices down and focusing on the people around us brings back the human part of connection and gives us deeper relationships. Listen in as Janna chats with Sean Killingsworth, founder of the Reconnect Movement as they discuss technology and the influence it has on our relationships.

ABOUT OUT GUEST | Sean Killingsworth, founder of the Reconnect Movement creates in-person communities on college campuses to share time without phones, make friends, and just hang out. In Gen Z, social media currently has a monopoly on social connections, meaning social media has become a requirement to socialize. Therefore if you do not want to experience the negative effects of using social media and choose to delete it, your social life will suffer. Reconnect exists to balance this monopoly by providing an easily accessible face-to-face alternative for connecting and making friends. Find out more about the Reconnect Movement here.

QUOTABLES

Homeschooling and reconnecting with others in a digital age. (0:00)

The reconnect movement and its impact on society. (3:13)

The impact of smartphones on social connections. (9:37)

Phone etiquette and social dynamics among parents and children. (14:15)

Phone addiction and its impact on relationships. (17:12)

Balancing screen time and social connections for teenagers. (22:14)

Creating phone-free spaces for children. (27:15)

Limiting screen time for kids and setting a good example. (31:33)

Homeschooling and outdoor play for mental health. (36:52)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Jan 02, 202444:16
HAPPY HOLIDAYS

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Happy Holidays from all of us at Homeschool Your Way & BookShark.

The holidays are merry and bright but sometimes they can give you the blues because of stress, family or any other number of reasons. Join Janna and her guest Kelly Scimeca in this replay of Tis the Season for Holiday Blues as they chat about the holiday blues: the symptoms, the causes, and how to keep them from ruining your cheery vibe. 

LISTENER COUPON CODE ★⁠Request your coupon code⁠ to use on any purchase at bookshark.com.

TIMESTAMPS

01:52 Introduction to Kelly

02:52 Chore charts as a solution to the always messy house

03:52 What are the holiday blues?

06:22 How your own grief can be transferred to your kids

07:55 The expectation to make everything homemade at the holidays

11:03 How anxiety can blossom and grow, ruining your enjoyment

12:38 Common symptoms of the holiday blues

14:25 Reframing your expectations to you aren't overwhelmed

16:22 How to tame unhealthy or emotional eating

18:14 How isolation can impact holiday blues

19:31 Learning to say no

22:28 Self-care is not selfish

24:19 Get family input on your holiday plans

27:00 How slow and steady is the mantra to overcome the holiday blues

28:01 If you need additional help, reach out to a therapist. Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. ⁠Request a homeschool curriculum catalog⁠ or ⁠download samples⁠ at ⁠bookshark.com⁠. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, ⁠leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast⁠. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.


Dec 26, 202328:52
A NEW YEAR, A NEW WHY?

A NEW YEAR, A NEW WHY?

EPISODE 157 | Can you believe that it is almost a new year? In this time of transition from one year to the next let's take a moment to be grateful for all that we have and for our guests, who have given us so much wonderful insight into their homeschooling journey. Join Janna as she reflects on the coming new year and some key guests featured in the last few seasons who speak on their Why for homeschooling. How they chose it. How they maintain it and why they feel it is so important in continuing their journey

LISTENER COUPON CODE

Request your coupon code to use on any purchase at bookshark.com.

QUOTABLES | The importance of understanding why homeschooling. (0:04)Homeschooling motivations and principles. (3:14)Homeschooling, gratitude, and parenting. (8:52)Homeschooling, community support, and parental fears. (18:30)Raising children with positive habits and character attributes. (20:22 Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Dec 19, 202322:26
HERCULEAN HOMESCHOOL

HERCULEAN HOMESCHOOL

EPISODE 156 | Being a parent often entails wrestling with FOMO, the fear of missing out, particularly when it comes to our children's experiences and opportunities. This sensation can stem from the constant comparison to others, where we might believe that other families have it better or that we're somehow falling short. Homeschooling, in particular, amplifies this feeling as the responsibility of education rests heavily on parents' shoulders. The grass can appear greener on the side of traditional schooling, with its social activities and structured environments. However, homeschooling requires constant evaluation and adjustment to what is best for our families and kids. It's a path demanding patience, introspection, and a willingness to embrace the uncertainties that come with making educational choices. Joint Janna and her guest Sarah Hercules as they discuss all of the above and more.


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QUOTABLES | 

Homeschooling and public schooling with a former teacher. (0:00)

Homeschooling and public school experiences. (7:32)

Education gaps and changing attitudes towards learning. (13:07)

Homeschooling, parenting, and education. (18:22)

Homeschooling, education, and leadership development. (26:43)

Homeschooling and flexibility in curriculum. (31:27)

Encouraging reluctant readers and finding fun books for kids. (39:18)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Dec 12, 202344:46
HOLIDAY HOMESCHOOLING: TRADITIONS & MORE

HOLIDAY HOMESCHOOLING: TRADITIONS & MORE

EPISODE 155| Chestnuts roasting by the fire, stringing popcorn on thread, Santa pictures with matching pj’s, and caroling are just a few of the things that come to mind when people think of holiday traditions. Traditions can be an important part of any time of our lives but truthfully most of us have that one, if not more, tradition that brings that warm fuzzy feeling to our hearts and minds. Holidays are often when those traditions occur because family gathers but with that comes stress and the feeling that we have to do more or be more.  In today’s podcast join Janna and her guests, Sharon and Rachel as they discuss traditions, stress, and how they manage homeschooling around the holidays. May you enter the holidays with peace and grace for yourself and your family as you pass on your traditions or create new beautiful ones.

ABOUT OUR GUESTS|

Rachel Davis lives in Maryland with her husband, two teenaged daughters, two highly energetic dogs, and her favorite, the cat. Her family has been homeschooling for 7 years. Rachel actually has a bachelor’s degree in history and really loves that subject… but she has found that teaching math is her favorite thing to do; she is pretty sure that even though her kids ‘hate’ math, they too will find joy in it when they are older. Give it twenty years. Rachel also loves playing piano (and teaching other kids to play), baking (and eating), and reading (so much reading!) She is one of BookShark’s advisors and enjoys helping other homeschooling moms and dads figure out how to best use BookShark’s curriculum in their homeschools.

Sharon Wilson Miller is originally from southern California but now lives just outside Chicago with her husband and is a homeschool mom of 2 (9 and 11). Sharon holds a BFA in Theatre Studies from DePaul University, she spent many years as a Stage Manager working regionally and on some large-scale touring musicals. Sharon is also a licensed massage therapist and enjoys her work as an Advisor for BookShark.

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QUOTABLES| 

Homeschooling during holidays with a focus on traditions and food. (0:01)

Homeschooling and holiday traditions. (2:52)

Balancing homeschooling and holiday activities. (6:24)

Parenting, homeschooling, and holiday traditions. (11:30)

Homeschooling and intergenerational learning during the holidays. (18:48)

How to get back into routine after holidays. (24:23)

Balancing holiday activities with self-care and family happiness. (29:40)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Dec 05, 202337:24
THE ADVENTURE OF HOMESCHOOLING PRE-K-12TH: PART TWO

THE ADVENTURE OF HOMESCHOOLING PRE-K-12TH: PART TWO

EPISODE 154| Part two of THE ADVENTURE OF HOMESCHOOLOING PRE-K-12TH: PART ONE. Why do you homeschool? There are any number of answers to that question and sometimes homeschooling comes before or after a bout with public school and at times homeschooling co-exists with public schooling. Does the idea of homeschooling feel daunting? Listen as Janna and her guest Katie Wolfe discuss Katie’s journey of homeschooling her son from pre-k to 12th grade and how she learned that just because you homeschool does not mean you do it all yourself! 

As part of being our guest Katie is offering $5 off on her site https://thewolfepackden.com/. Use code TWP5BSK.

ABOUT OUR GUEST| Katie Wolfe is a former classroom teacher who will graduate her one and only kiddo from their Lone WOLFe Academy in 2024. She's a firm believer that homeschool moms don't need to actually "do it all"...they just need to find the right resources and then manage the process. This belief has allowed her to create and share hundreds of quality printable resources, travel the country with a renowned math teacher, and serve as chairperson on her local library board (in addition to homeschooling and doing her best to cook and clean too.) She lives with her little family, mini Aussie, bearded dragon, massively fluffy cat, and mixed terrier in the middle of Kansas.

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QUOTABLES| Child development and learning styles. (0:00)

Katie observes a child's unique way of learning and adapts her teaching approach accordingly.

Homeschooling challenges and self-reflection. (1:23)

Janna shares her experiences with homeschooling and emphasizes the importance of self-reflection for successful homeschooling.

Katie recognizes the importance of constantly reassessing and adjusting her teaching methods to ensure her child is learning effectively.

Homeschooling and socialization challenges for only children. (5:16)

Katie emphasizes the importance of creating a community for her son, even taking opportunities to socialize with him and his friends outside of the home.

Katie notes that homeschooling an only child can create challenges in terms of attention and socialization, and suggests thinking outside the box to find solutions.

Homeschooling and personalized learning. (10:32)

Katie emphasized the need for parents to be intuitive to their children's needs, whether in a large or small household.

Katie shares her experience with homeschooling her son, including a failed attempt at using a live class and eventually switching to a different curriculum.

Homeschooling, creating curriculum, and outsourcing subjects. (16:04)

Katie creates original unit studies and resources for her son David, and now shares them with other parents through her website, the Wolf Pack Den.

Katie shared her homeschool hack, which is outsourcing subjects or parts of subjects when needed, to make homeschooling more enjoyable and effective.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Nov 28, 202326:08
THE ADVENTURE OF HOMESCHOOLING PRE-K TO 12TH: PART ONE

THE ADVENTURE OF HOMESCHOOLING PRE-K TO 12TH: PART ONE

EPISODE 153| Why do you homeschool? There are any number of answers to that question and sometimes homeschooling comes before or after a bout with public school and at times homeschooling co-exists with public schooling. Does the idea of homeschooling feel daunting? Listen as Janna and her guest Katie Wolfe discuss Katie’s journey of homeschooling her son from pre-k to 12th grade and how she learned that just because you homeschool does not mean you do it all yourself! 

As part of being our guest Katie is offering $5 off on her site https://thewolfepackden.com/. Use code TWP5BSK.

ABOUT OUR GUEST| Katie Wolfe is a former classroom teacher who will graduate her one and only kiddo from their Lone WOLFe Academy in 2024. She's a firm believer that homeschool moms don't need to actually "do it all"...they just need to find the right resources and then manage the process. This belief has allowed her to create and share hundreds of quality printable resources, travel the country with a renowned math teacher, and serve as chairperson on her local library board (in addition to homeschooling and doing her best to cook and clean too.) She lives with her little family, mini Aussie, bearded dragon, massively fluffy cat, and mixed terrier in the middle of Kansas.

LISTENER COUPON CODE

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QUOTABLES| 

Homeschooling through high school with a blend of in-person and online classes. (0:04)

Katie Wolf homeschooled her son from pre-K to 12th grade without ever enrolling him in school.

Homeschooling an only child with a focus on travel and socialization. (4:30)

Katie shares how they've been able to enhance their son David's education through traveling together and attending homeschool conventions, with David helping out at Nicola Math Lady's booth.

Homeschooling, parenting, and self-doubt. (9:08)

Katie highlights the importance of making mistakes and learning from them in both homeschooling and life in general.

Empowering students with autonomy and interest-led learning. (15:37)

Janna advocates for empowering children with autonomy and interest-led learning from a young age.

Katie believes that catering to children's interests can lead to a more enjoyable and effective learning experience.

Homeschooling, literature, and flexibility. (20:09)

Janna shares her experience with classic literature, revealing that she didn't appreciate it until later in life and now encourages parents to be more relaxed about their children's reading habits.

Homeschooling approaches and accommodating individual learning styles. (28:10) Katie shares personalized teaching strategies for homeschooling, including accommodating unique learning styles and preferences.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Nov 21, 202329:50
HOMESCHOOL ENCOURAGEMENT

HOMESCHOOL ENCOURAGEMENT

EPISODE 152 A lazy morning with grateful children who happily apply themselves to their studies while you enjoy having them all under one roof.  

Sound idyllic? We all want that type of homeschool day but reality is much different. That’s not to say your idyllic homeschool days won’t happen but how do you cope with the days in between? Homeschooling is demanding, it's not some picture-perfect thing that magically happens, it takes hard work. Join Janna and her guest, Gretchen from Demme Learning as they discuss ‘October flats’ as something that can happen anytime in your homeschool journey.

ABOUT OUR GUEST| Gretchen Roe has 21 years of home education experience with her six children, four of whom are now college graduates. With a degree in Psychology and Child Development, she has spent the last 19 years in positions of homeschool advocacy, having a special bond with families of children who have to work harder to learn. A former business owner, she has served on a variety of nonprofit boards. A Consultative Sales Representative with Demme Learning since 2014, Gretchen loves the outdoors, all things furry, and is in the process of perfecting backyard chicken raising, beekeeping, and gardening skills.

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QUOTABLES| 

Homeschooling challenges and finding grace. (0:02)

Gretchen Roe shares her experience as a homeschooling mother of six, highlighting the ups and downs of the journey.

Gretchen advises parents to focus on one task at a time and plan to avoid feeling overwhelmed by October flats.

Homeschooling challenges and trusting the learning process. (7:24)

Janna shares her struggle with being present and in the moment while homeschooling, feeling pressure to juggle multiple tasks and admit her own.

Homeschooling mindset and approach. (9:36)

Gretchen and Janna discuss the importance of patience and persistence in homeschooling, comparing it to farming and social media.

Homeschooling and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. (13:05)

Parents should embrace a collaborative mentality in homeschooling, rather than a control mentality, and view failures as learning opportunities.

Homeschooling, flexibility, and patience. (16:37)

Janna and Gretchen advise homeschoolers to create a "reverse engineering" list of what they want to accomplish, rather than an unrealistic Disney-like version of homeschooling.

Gretchen suggests allowing one to two months for kids to adjust to homeschooling, as they need time to unbuckle from previous learning and figure out how they learn best.

Janna emphasizes the importance of flexibility in homeschooling, as kids are moldable and change constantly, and what works today may not work tomorrow.

Homeschooling, parenting, and personal growth. (24:55)

Janna and Gretchen discuss the importance of teaching children critical thinking skills in the age of technology, particularly in navigating information overload and media manipulation.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Nov 14, 202331:58
WORKING PARENTS WHO HOMESCHOOL

WORKING PARENTS WHO HOMESCHOOL

EPISODE 151| Working and Homeschool?! Does it seem like an impossible proposition for you and your family? It might not be as crazy as it sounds. In today's podcast, Janna and her guest, Angela D’Antonio discuss how Angela has homeschooled her two kids for the past decade while she and her husband work full time. She shares her list of the benefits of homeschooling and how they make it all work. Find some ideas to help you as you navigate your homeschool journey.

ABOUT OUR GUEST| Angela D’Antonio has been homeschooling her two daughters for over a decade, beginning with preschool and continuing through high school.  From 2019 to 2023, she worked in sales and customer service for a homeschool curriculum company. She now brings her expertise as a sales and marketing consultant for educational supply companies and schools.  In addition, Angela serves as an academic tutor and offers personalized consulting services, both in-person and online, to support homeschooling families.  Her true passion lies in assisting families in discovering the perfect curriculum for their children and ensuring that their homeschoolers are well-prepared for college. LISTENER COUPON CODE

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QUOTABLES| 

Balancing work and homeschooling with a busy professional. (0:00)

Angela de Antonio has been homeschooling her daughters for over a decade, starting with preschool and continuing through high school.

Homeschooling, community support, and parenting challenges. (4:39)

The speaker reflects on the challenges of homeschooling, including the increased responsibility and lack of predictability, and how they use planning and lists to manage their role as a homeschooling parent.

Homeschooling challenges and realities. (6:40) Janna shares her struggles with balancing work and homeschooling, feeling defeated before even starting due to societal expectations of having it all.

Angela role models imperfection for their children, acknowledging their own limitations and teaching them balance by choosing to prioritize their time and effort in different areas.

Homeschooling, parenting, and work-life balance. (11:26) Janna encourages listeners to accept their limitations and focus on their strengths as homeschooling parents, rather than striving for perfection.

Parenting, regret, and letting go of expectations. (17:12)

Balancing work and family responsibilities. (19:22) Encourages parents to let kids take on more responsibilities, like laundry and cooking, to teach them life skills.

Homeschooling strategies and autonomy. (24:40) The speaker highlights the importance of allowing children to take ownership of their learning and developing executive function skills, which can benefit them in the long run.

Homeschooling and letting go of control. (29:33)

Homeschooling and work-life balance as a working mom. (33:12) Angela reflects on the importance of giving children control over their own education, citing the example of their own children taking college courses in high school.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Nov 07, 202341:27
STEM FOCUS IN HOMESCHOOL

STEM FOCUS IN HOMESCHOOL

EPISODE 150| Science starts with small experiments and grows to larger ones like antacids and soda as we grow in our understanding of how things work, which makes it fun yet a little scary at times for both the teacher and the student. But it is also an area where children and parents can grow together to see what is out there and expand their worldview. It is also an area where the teacher can guide a student into exploring extraordinary things like the cosmos and more real world like what they could do for a career. Join Janna and her guest Scott Burns as they discuss Science and how you can use it to inspire your students and you.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Scott Burns is the National Sales Director for Home Science Tools. For over 20 years Scott has been a noteworthy leader in the education and EdTech industry. He is passionately driven to provide science education solutions to learners at all phases of their journey. Scott specializes in building lifelong connections with educators and students to find solutions that help them achieve higher-quality academic experiences. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from St. Norbert College.​

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QUOTABLES|

STEM education and its importance in homeschooling. (0:00)

Scott Burns, National Sales Director at Home Science Tools, discusses the importance of hands-on learning in science education. Emphasize that inspiring students to pursue STEM fields doesn't have to be intimidating, and there are resources available to help parents and students learn together.

Math as a language and its importance in various careers. (6:19) Janna emphasizes the importance of understanding math as a language, not a specialized subject, and how it can be applied to various fields.

Following children's interests in learning. (11:27) Building trust and grit in children through problem-solving and skill development is crucial for their social-emotional well-being and success in 21st-century STEM careers.

Science education and career exploration. (16:46) Communication and collaboration are key to problem-solving, with active listening and verbal conversation skills crucial for success. Scott observed a group of mixed-age students drawing scientists and noticed they mostly depicted older men in lab coats, with only one female scientist drawn by a girl.

Homeschooling and STEM education. (23:36) Janna emphasizes the importance of intentionality in homeschooling, recognizing that parents have biases and limitations that can impact their children's education.


Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Oct 31, 202333:16
CONNECTING HOMESCHOOLERS

CONNECTING HOMESCHOOLERS

EPISODE 149 | The homeschooling landscape has changed dramatically over the last 20 years. With the advance of the internet, how we find things or communicate has radically evolved. It’s also altered how we interact with one another. The thrill of checking the mail or making sure everyone is off the phone so you can get that scheduled call is no longer a thing. Instead, we read messages instantly on messaging apps and social platforms which only show a curated view of other’s lives. Join Janna and her guest, Stephanie Cavin, as they discuss homeschooling now vs when they were kids, plus hear why Homeschoolers Connect was created. Plus, understand how letter writing connects students with their peers as they learn a multitude of things from spelling to delayed gratification. Use code bookshark10 for 10% off your subscription.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Stephanie Cavin is a 2nd generation homeschooler. She has been homeschooling her 2 kids for the past 7 years and loves it. She is a high school teacher and the owner of  Homeschoolers Connect, connecting homeschoolers nationwide with other homeschoolers in lasting friendships through pen pals.

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QUOTABLES|

Second-generation homeschooler Stephanie Cavin shares her experience as a child and as a high school teacher, now dedicating her life to education through Homeschoolers Connect. (0:00)

Homeschooling experiences and resources. (1:13)

Homeschooling and its benefits. Janna shares her experience as a homeschooler in the 1900s, highlighting the diversity of homeschooling methods and the misconception that all homeschoolers have the same experience. (2:29)

Homeschooling, prioritizing education, and connecting with other homeschoolers. Janna and the unknown speaker use Book Shark, a literature-based learning program, to homeschool their children. (6:57)

The benefits of letter-writing for children's development. Janna shares her excitement about the program's delayed gratification aspect, citing the need for more patience and anticipation in today's fast-paced society. (13:26)

Teaching children to write and reflect on their lives. Homeschoolers connect with pen pals, improving writing skills and social studies knowledge. (18:34)

Homeschooling, simplicity, and outsourcing. The guest shares a homeschool hack, looping schedules, to prioritize important subjects and outsource others. (24:52)


Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Oct 24, 202333:37
ART FOR EVERYONE

ART FOR EVERYONE

EPISODE 148 SEASON 4 | Art is subjective, right? So how can you teach someone what art is? It’s often a subject that as homeschoolers we may not think to teach or shy away from teaching because teaching art can be intimidating! But one way to look at teaching art is that yes it is subjective so everyone appreciates something different but it is also a chance for you to teach your child other skills as they are being creative.  Being creative or artistic requires them to make decisions, what color here, what medium should I use? It also stretches their brain to come up with new ideas or view things in a different way.

Join Janna and her guest Karen Barge as they discuss art, and how it can elevate your homeschool and also set a wonderful basis for your student as they grow with decision-making and more.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Karen Barge is a professional illustrator and artist who now teaches online art classes at Sunny Art Academy. Over 20 years, she taught various art classes for ages 5 to 85. She created her own curriculum for five years for the Vista Art Foundation's Gallery 204, including summer camps for kids like Alice in Wonderland and Art Around The World. Then Karen held teaching positions at several Montessori and Catholic schools for another six years. Her years of teaching included how to draw, paint parties, acrylic, watercolor, and oil painting to teens and adults. In the summer of 2023, Karen combined her children's, teen, and adult video art classes into one website, Sunny Art Academy. Karen has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from The University of North Texas and a degree in Computer Graphics in Multimedia.

Link to 7 Reasons Why Homeschooling Parents Need to Teach Art https://www.sunnyartacademy.com/pages/7-reasons 

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QUOTABLES | Why homeschool parents should teach art. (0:01)

Karen Barge is a professional illustrator and art teacher with over 30 years of experience, offering online classes at Sunny Art Academy.

Homeschool parents need to teach art because it helps develop creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, according to Karen Barge.

The benefits of art for decision-making and confidence-building. (5:38)

Janna and Karen discuss the importance of decision-making skills, particularly in college, where students may feel overwhelmed and lack confidence in their choices.

Karen emphasizes creativity and relaxation in her art classes, where parents and children work together to create art.

Art and creativity in homeschooling. (15:15)

Risk-taking is essential for creativity and learning in homeschool environments, as it allows children to experiment and build upon their mistakes.

The speaker's colleague gave them a list of ideas to draw every day, including a palm tree and a gingerbread man, and this helped the speaker to improve their art skills.

Art and creativity in homeschooling. (22:46)

Janna shares her experience with art and how it's important to show children that learning is a process of failure and growth.

Karen offers a PDF with 7 reasons why homeschool parents should teach art, which can be accessed through the show notes.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Oct 17, 202332:13
DYSLEXIA: A STUDENT'S PERSPECTIVE

DYSLEXIA: A STUDENT'S PERSPECTIVE

EPISODE 147 | October is Dyslexia Awareness Month.  Join us as we support the homeschooling community to spotlight a range of dyslexic needs, struggles, signs, while bringing awareness to the issue of dyslexia. Our host, Janna, met with Sophia D’Antonio, a diagnosed dyslexic and gifted homeschooler.  This is a rare opportunity to hear from a student what it’s like to homeschool and be dyslexic. Plus discover how Sophia has managed and excels while continuing her learning journey. You might even learn a few tips and ideas on how to help someone you know or yourself with dyslexia. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Sophia D'Antonio is a homeschooled Sophomore who has been educated in her home since 1st grade. She has been identified as both gifted and dyslexic and appreciates the flexibility that homeschooling has provided for her individual needs. Sophia is working on raising awareness of dyslexia in her rural, isolated community and is holding an informational event as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project. She has also secured online dyslexia assessments for the first 50 students in her community for free. Sophia's favorite coursework includes Latin, Greek, and Roman Mythology, Greek and Roman Literature, and Ancient Roman History. 

https://www.bookshare.org

https://learningally.org

https://neurolearning.com/

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QUOTABLES |

Homeschooling and dyslexia awareness with a dyslexic and gifted student. (0:04)

Dyslexia and homeschooling experiences. (1:14)

Dyslexia, learning challenges, and academic struggles. (6:18)

Dyslexia, Greek mythology, and academic challenges. (12:12)

Dyslexia awareness and Gold Award project. (16:49)

Dyslexia, learning strategies, and time management. (22:35)

Dyslexia, scheduling techniques, and audiobook resources. (28:16)

Audio books and homeschooling for dyslexic children. (34:03)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Oct 10, 202335:55
KNOW YOUR CHILD'S STYLE

KNOW YOUR CHILD'S STYLE

EPISODE 146 SEASON 4 |

Children can be a source of amazement and marvel. Have you ever looked at your child and wondered, why are you acting like that? Whether positive or negative, children’s reactions to events or tasks can vary dramatically from our own or our partners’. These personality differences are what make each of us wonderfully unique. With the uniqueness our children’s personalities, wouldn’t it be great to have some baseline of understanding why one child acts completely differently in one scenario versus the other? On today’s podcast, Janna and her guest, Mendy Ingiaimo, discuss Mendy’s personality test, Destiny Assessment. Learn what fun animal might best fit your child’s personality and what details will help you understand and knowing the best way to work with them.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Mendy Ingiaimo: Believes in unique education for every student. Former teacher, administrator, and corporate training manager. Founded schools, book author, developed curricula, and now empowers homeschool moms through Homeschool Moms Academy for tailored, effective learning. Get a free digital copy of Mendy's profile book here.

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QUOTABLES | 

Understanding children's unique personalities for effective parenting and homeschooling. (0:00)

Mindy shares her journey as a former teacher, administrator, and homeschooling parent to help empower other moms.

Personality types in children based on animal analogies. (4:20)

Mendy discusses the different personalities of children, including the elephant personality, which is characterized by being wise, logical, conscientious, and detail-oriented, but can also be challenging due to their perfectionism.

Understanding children's personalities and homeschooling. (14:26)

Janna struggles with understanding her daughter's personality type and its impact on parenting.

Understanding children's personalities and parenting strategies. (18:51)

Parent realizes importance of balancing perfectionism with flexibility in homeschooling.

Parenting and homeschooling strategies. (22:31)

Janna and Mendy discuss the challenge of balancing control and letting children take the lead in their learning, with Janna sharing her approach of becoming a facilitator rather than teacher.

Parenting styles and their impact on family dynamics. (29:58)

Mendy also wrote a children's book, "The Lion, the Elephant, the Horse, and the Lamb," to teach children about their unique strengths and how to contribute to their community.

Personality types and their strengths in children. (34:19)


Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Oct 03, 202342:47
HELPING WITH EXECUTIVE FUNCTION

HELPING WITH EXECUTIVE FUNCTION

EPISODE 145 SEASON 4 | What makes a successful student or person? While there are a LOT of items on that checklist, there are a set of skills that can make it a great deal easier to be successful. This skill set is called executive functioning. It is a broad group of mental skills that enable people to complete tasks and interact with others. It is a skill set that allows a student/person to write that final paper, plan a business outline, or follow a set of instructions on what chores to do in a specific manner. 

Join Janna and her guest Dr. Lauran Kerr-Heraly as they discuss time management and other executive functioning skills. Learn how you can help your child as they move through their educational journey.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Lauran Kerr-Heraly is an award-winning educator and author who has dedicated her career to transforming lives through education. She was homeschooled all the way through high school, which allowed her to develop a deep appreciation for self-directed learning and a passion for helping others to take control of their education. Lauran has worked in college readiness in American high schools, taught in international and British schools in England, and currently serves as a professor in an American community college. Her innovative teaching includes turning a classroom into an escape room, multidisciplinary projects showcasing personal food histories and environmental justice, and experimental learning spaces. She helps students and parents develop a holistic approach to college success, which includes a focus on essential skills, executive function, and emotional awareness. Get 10% off any product at https://www.alteringcourse.com/ Use code bookshark . See the Free Infographic: College Prep Essential Skills.

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QUOTABLES |

Executive functioning challenges in homeschool students. (0:00)

Dr. Lauran Kerr-Heraly, homeschooling pioneer and educator, discusses executive functioning and its impact on students and parents. Acknowledges the challenge of balancing the need for structure and oversight in their children's education, particularly as they transition to college or high school environments.

Time management and emotional regulation for high school and college students. (7:15)

Advocates for open communication with college students, asking them to arrange dedicated time for studying (0:08:33).

Discusses time management and emotional regulation in college students, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and support systems (0:09:33).

Emotional regulation and executive function in young adults. (13:26)

Eliminating the source of stress can change the entire scenario for young adults, allowing them to feel more in control of their emotions and decisions.

The speaker realized they were a perfectionist procrastinator in college, leading to late-night computer lab escapades.

The speaker's student client found a creative solution to assignments by turning them into a graphic novel character, showing that finding a personalized system works best for individuals with ADHD.

Supporting children with executive function challenges. (19:20)

suggests inviting students to share their struggles before they become dire, rather than addressing issues after they've escalated.

Homeschooling, executive function skills, and parental grace. (24:35)

Janna shares her experience as a homeschooling parent and the importance of giving oneself and children grace in the face of societal pressure.

Lauran emphasizes the significance of maintaining a close relationship with children, especially for those who are neurodivergent or have learning challenges.

Janna suggests using literature-based learning to build executive functions by reading and discussing books with children

Improving executive functioning skills for children. (33:02)

Lauran offers virtual executive function cohorts and 10% off products with code bookshark for listeners.

Sep 26, 202337:07
EDZOOCATING

EDZOOCATING

EPISODE 144 SEASON 4 | The beauty of homeschooling is that you get to build it however you want. What better way to create supplement your curriculum than finding different pieces to make it a successful learning experience? Incorporating nature and animals into a part of homeschooling is what Sarah Skebba, founder of EdZOOcating EdZOOcating, does. EdZOOcating is an educational approach that integrates animal-based experiences into your child's learning journey. From field trips to animal sanctuaries to interactive lessons with live animals, EdZOOcating provides an immersive and engaging educational experience that sparks curiosity and empathy.

Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler looking for fresh ideas or someone considering homeschooling for the first time, this podcast episode will provide valuable insights and make it a truly enriching experience. Join us as we embark on a journey to empower your child's education through homeschooling your way and EdZOOcating!

ABOUT OUT GUEST | Sarah Skebba is the founder and CEO of EdZOOcating, an education platform designed to use wildlife, nature, and conservation to engage kids in core science topics. She grew up in the Cleveland Metroparks where she developed a love for nature at an early age. After moving to Arizona to attain a BS in Conservation Biology and Ecology, she participated in several wildlife studies exploring animals like rattlesnakes, Gila monsters, iguanas, and more. She gained experiences as an educator at a variety of zoos, aquariums, and nature centers where she furthered my passion for both wildlife and teaching. During her furlough at the start of COVID, she was eager to continue educating both kids and adults about wildlife and conservation. What started as a website filled with animal facts and sustainable living tips transformed into hundreds of live Zoom classes, a K-8 science curriculum program called EdZOOcating Adventures, and 3 years of engaging homeschoolers from across the world in science using the wonders of the natural world. 

You can find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @edzoocating

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There are so many ways to incorporate science into homeschooling. Science can be artistic, statistical, numbers, statistics, etc.


The plants in Ohio are very different from what she grew up with and how they were used hundreds and hundreds of years ago.

Sep 19, 202331:02
MAKING THE GRADE: STUDY HABITS

MAKING THE GRADE: STUDY HABITS

EPISODE 143 SEASON 4 | As homeschoolers, the idea of cramming for a test may be slightly foreign but as your student grows and contemplates college or a form of higher education you want them to have the strongest skill set available to help them succeed. Part of that skill set needs to be studying. But how to study without cramming? How can you help your student best retain all the information your student needs without stressing about their grade?

Find out some tips and techniques your student can use to create positive study habits on this episode of Homeschool Your Way. Listen in as Janna is joined by Mark Pruitt, creator of Making the Grade as they discuss all things related to studying and being successful academically. Till Oct. 15th, 2023 you can save $30 on the college prep, use code JANNA at checkout.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Mark Pruitt (aka: Captain College) is Assoc. Director of Admissions for Harding University and has been on a college campus for over twenty years. Mark developed a study strategy that helped him earn 95% or higher in every college class! Being super successful in school does not have to be hard, so let Mark - the author and producer of the college prep curriculum Making the Grade - help you become a student of Excellence so you can master the material quickly and effectively, have a ton of fun, and enjoy the best years of your life! 

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QUOTABLES | 

Janna: What is making the grade and why did you decide to create it? (0:00)

Mark: Developed the making the grade college prep course.

Homeschooling and cramming

Mark: We all have different strengths, different interests, different personalities, and different learning styles. This course takes all of those aspects into consideration and helps students learn to a deeper level.

Super smart students may think they don't need this, but college is an amazing experience.

The importance of having the right mindset for success. (11:40)

Mark: At the college level, you need to be setting aside probably three or four hours a day.

Janna:  Doing anything guilt-free is so much more pleasurable.

Mark: Anxiety levels are through the roof, and there are more people seeing counselors and mental health professionals now than ever before.

The stress of high school and college. (18:31)

Mark: The material is still applicable if the student goes to college, trade school, or the military.

Mark: One of the neatest tips for reading textbook material is to read it at least twice, the first time is the hardest.

Janna: Set the time limit to 30 minutes, then walk away and come back to do another 30 minutes if you can. (25:38)

How to get in touch with Mark. (28:44)

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Sep 12, 202333:42
FIND YOUR TRUE SPARK

FIND YOUR TRUE SPARK

EPISODE 142 SEASON 4 | Motivation is a tricky thing. It allows us to move forward to goals and accomplish what we need and even our dreams. But sometimes it is HARD! Sometimes getting motivated and staying motivated to finish that project or write that paper is so difficult, other times it’s a breeze. Motivating ourselves and our children can be a challenge. Wouldn’t be amazing if if you could determine what actually motivates your children and you? Especially if those motivators are totally different and might even work against each other. 

Join Janna and Jimmie Quick from TruSpark as they talk about homeschooling and a few ways you can determine what motivates each person and use that to accomplish everyone’s best. 

ABOUT OUR GUEST | 

Jimmie Quick is a former homeschool parent whose only daughter is now an independent adult. After working for about a decade to help homeschool curriculum companies market their materials, she transitioned into marketing for Motivations AI, the owner of the Motivation Code: Suite of Assessments: MCode for adults, TruMotivate for young adults in college, and TruSpark for junior high school. 

Motivation Code: https://motivationcode.com/

TruMotivate: https://trumotivate.com/

TruSpark: https://truspark.me/

Use code bookshark for $10 off any purchase at truspark.me through 12/31/2023 gy6

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QUOTABLES | 

Janna 00:00: How did you become involved in the homeschool world?

Jimmie 02:11: The double-edged sword of education and homeschooling. Excitement is a better motivator than discipline. It’s that old adage of the carrot or the stick and sometimes as parents we have to use the stick.

Janna 08:56: What is the True Spark Assessment? The assessment includes 19 different motivations, including a maximizer, a teacher, and a visionary.

Janna 14:38: What motivates me doesn’t motivate my kids.

Jimmie 19:47: The importance of realizing the vision. Realize the vision is not necessarily a visionary, but if someone gives you a grand idea, let's see how to make it a reality.

Jimmie 20:38: Don't ask kids to do things that are not in their wheelhouse. Make it easier for them to cater to their strengths and cater to their motivation.

Janna 26:25: How to get comfortable in the uncomfortable. Living in an age of innovation, parents who chose to get out of the system and do it a different way. Children are encouraged to think outside the box.

Jimmie 28:44: The most important thing is your relationship with your child. Keep the lines of communication open. TruSpark is a tool to help you listen to your kids.

Janna 31:33: You have to staff to your weakness.


Sep 05, 202340:48
MEDIA LITERACY PART TWO

MEDIA LITERACY PART TWO

EPISODE 141 SEASON 4 | Tune in for the 2nd half of Janna and Nate Noorlander’s discussion on media literacy. What we see is just the tip of the iceberg.  How to critically think about the information we are exposed to and define the underlying reason ‘why’.

The race is on to use the coupons below for The Nomadic Professor. The first person to enter nomadicsharkSUB gets 75% off the life of the subscription.  The first person to enter nomadicsharkPURCH gets 75% off their first purchase. Offers end August 31, 2023 

After those codes are used others can receive 20% off either a single purchase or a subscription using codes: sedentarysharkPURCH or sedentarysharkSUB Offer ends September 31, 2023.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | In college, Nate Noorlander double-majored in philosophy and history teaching. After a stint as a project manager with a disaster repair company, he moved to Beijing, China, where he taught IGCSE and A-level history at the Cambridge International Curriculum Center of Beijing Normal University. He also spent time touring India and trekking in Nepal.

Worn out by the Beijing air, Nate moved home with his family and taught English and history at Mountainville Academy, and then the American International School of Utah. At AISU he developed mini-courses in boredom and awareness (probably close to what many people call mindfulness) based on Heidegger’s ideas about technology, and Nicholas Carr’s ideas about what the internet does to our brains, areas of study that (perhaps ironically) he finds compelling.

Done in this time by life in the beautiful Mountain West he returned to Beijing, where he taught IB History, IB English, and Theory of Knowledge at the Yew Chung International School of Beijing. When Covid-19 hit he was coaching the boys' basketball team and gearing up for an end-of-season tournament in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, ignorant of what was coming. The trip was canceled, his family just made it out of Beijing on a flight three times its usual cost, and he stuck it out in the shuttered city for another six weeks. When life didn’t change, he left too. Since then it’s been all history with The Nomadic Professor.

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QUOTABLES | Nate: Under the surface of media literacy. The five units of the course. Technology design is generating a lot of controversy.

Nate: Understanding political bias and the history of media. Understanding partisanship, political bias, and the history and technology of politics in America is important for understanding bias and what motivates a person’s reasoning.

Nate: Tools to help us understand arguments. Language is where people do things that help us understand arguments. It’s best used by people who already have a mature understanding of media and how to read an break down arguments.

Nate: Students will learn how to navigate the internet and make judgments about the reliability and credibility of information.

Janna: When can we expect the course to be available for purchase? 

Nate: One unit is available now with more coming soon.

Nate: I would always be asking the question and training my students to ask the question whether they're four years old or 24 years old. 

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Aug 29, 202328:58
MEDIA LITERACY-PART ONE

MEDIA LITERACY-PART ONE

EPISODE 140 SEASON 4 | It used to be that news only came from a few vetted sources, the news on radio or tv and the printed paper. With the advance of technology, the news is literally at our fingertips coming from the world over and from countless sources. It’s also given rise to people only getting ‘certain’ news based upon what they’ve clicked before and those ever-present algorithms. Join Janna and Nate from the Nomadic Professor, as they discuss media literacy, something becoming more crucial to us as we teach and empower our children to become aware of the world around them.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | In college, Nate Noorlander double-majored in philosophy and history teaching. After a stint as a project manager with a disaster repair company, he moved to Beijing, China, where he taught IGCSE and A Level history at the Cambridge International Curriculum Center of Beijing Normal University. He also spent time touring in India and trekking in Nepal. Worn out by the Beijing air, Nate moved home with his family and taught English and history at Mountainville Academy, and then the American International School of Utah. At AISU he developed mini-courses in boredom and awareness (probably close to what many people call mindfulness) based on Heidegger’s ideas about technology, and Nicholas Carr’s ideas about what the internet does to our brains, areas of study that (perhaps ironically) he finds compelling. Done in this time by life in the beautiful mountain west he returned to Beijing, where he taught IB History, IB English, and Theory of Knowledge at the Yew Chung International School of Beijing. When Covid-19 hit he was coaching the boys' basketball team and gearing up for an end-of-season tournament in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, ignorant of what was coming. The trip was canceled, his family just made it out of Beijing on a flight three times its usual cost, and he stuck it out in the shuttered city for another six weeks. When life didn’t change, he left too. Since then it’s been all history with The Nomadic Professor.

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QUOTABLES

Nate:  So all of our content, whether it's American history, or something else features the professor on location, all over the world. Janna: All right, so fun fact the Nomadic Professor himself is a homeschool dad, correct?  Nate: Yeah, that's part of the ideas sort of, we're in a time where technology and the structure of our educational options allow us to kind of break out of the brick-and-mortar classroom. Janna: And so we've talked just personally about how to make sure that our children who are being homeschooled are able to navigate well Nate: You also brought attention to the way media acts as a filter for what you hear and what you don't hear. So that's a unique phenomenon in and of itself, because what feels urgent, what feels critical, what feels like it's worth your attention in a given moment, what stories have gained traction, as opposed to, you know, and gain traction for reasons that are not always related to their significance or their importance

Janna: The bottom line is dollars in so like you had said, Well, of course, this story that I was talking about, why is that going to get dollars maybe in their algorithms that bring sadness to our world. Nate: There are honest actors who are just trying to survive and not deceive people, but they need their businesses to stay afloat. And so they can't just operate on purely altruistic impulses.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Aug 22, 202325:13
ENRICHING YOUR HOMESCHOOL: DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION

ENRICHING YOUR HOMESCHOOL: DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION

SEASON 4 EPISODE 139 | As the global expanse shrinks with the use of technology, either through the ability to travel to other countries or visit new people ‘face-to-face’ on computers or phones. The barrier of time and distance is dissolving with one remaining hurdle: language. Language, its something we all learn and as we grow we realize learning a language can be more difficult than reciting words.  That’s where Ideal School comes in with dual language immersion. Join Janna as she and Eric Franzen, co-creator of Ideal School discuss dual language immersion and the benefits for your student in learning a second language and creating a community, virtually and in-person.

ABOUT OUR GUEST |

Eric Franzen is a proud Washingtonian. A graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle. He also has a postgraduate degree from Seattle Pacific University in education. He holds educational endorsements in English language arts, English as a Second Language, Spanish language arts, and administration. He worked in public education systems for almost 20 years as a para educator, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He also held district-level responsibilities. Alongside his wife, he created Ideal School in 2018. Ideal School is an internationally-accredited online dual language immersion school (currently serving Kinder to 9th grades for the 2023-2024 school year). Ideal School is accredited by Cognia, the world’s most recognized accreditor, and has agreements with the ministries of education in 87 countries on 6 continents. Cognia supports over 36,000 public and private school systems and schools, and there are more than 25,000,000 students within those schools and school systems. Eric Franzen is very proud of the wonderful professional team that has formed part of this revolutionary and amazing school. We hope that you consider going to www.idealschool.education and learning more about how Ideal School can support your family. We look forward to hearing from you! Here are our social media links…

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idealschool_edu/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/idealschool.edu

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@idealschool_edu?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCindQAIsGoP_Ys3NFwC8BDA?view_as=subscriber

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QUOTABLES

Eric: We are a Seattle-based, like you said, internationally accredited, online, dual language immersion school.

Janna: So the idea of an online dual language immersion, where did that come from?

Eric: We have three C's that we live by, which we call clarity, consistency, and compassion. Janna: I believe that most homeschool parents would agree with you that like we all have this dream, I think of being bilingual and then passing that on to our children.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Aug 15, 202329:55
STRENGTH-BASED LEARNING: HOW IT WORKS

STRENGTH-BASED LEARNING: HOW IT WORKS

SEASON 4 EPISODE 138 | Strength-based learning. What is it? How does it work? Why should I care about it for my child? Join Janna on this episode of Homeschool Your Way with guest Sam Young as they discuss strength-based learning. Why Sam created the Young Scholars Academy as an avenue for students a and parents for a connection, chance at community and to fulfill the need they have to be able to create an education that elevates their student because of their strengths rather than focusing on deficits. Hear realistic ways that this could apply to your student and how you can get creative with balancing what they like with what they need. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Sam Young, MEd, is a growth-minded, two-time Fulbright Scholar and Director of Young Scholars Academy, a strength-based, talent-focused virtual enrichment center that supports twice-exceptional, neurodivergent, and gifted students and their families. Mr. Sam is a neurodivergent educator who has ADHD. As an ADHD learner, he has a tremendous understanding of, experience in, and respect for all things related to neurodiverse education. Find out more about Young Scholars Academy @young_scholars_academy

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QUOTABLES |

Sam: So it's the dual existence of these two differences, a strength and a struggle that we call the twice exceptional as twice exceptionalities or the 2e as it's often shortened to.

Janna: I would say, personally, I tend to lean towards activities and challenges that I know I'm going to be able to accomplish or do well at so that I don't have to look at those deficits in my own life.

Sam: A lot of education is often deficit-based.

Sam: So typically, when we talk about supporting homeschoolers and developing the strength-based approach, there's really these three main buckets

Janna: I'll speak personally, as a parent, I sometimes get a very fatalistic view of the choices that my children are making

Sam: Sir Ken Robinson said this in his famous TED Talk, like our schools are killing creativity.

Janna: And I have to remind myself as a homeschool parent, like, I'm doing this so I can be creative.

Sam: And again, it's the four elements of the content, the product, the process, and the environment, like what is something that she would care about that would feel important, or in this case, feel authentic?

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Aug 08, 202337:45
WELCOME BACK: THINKING ABOUT YOUR WHY

WELCOME BACK: THINKING ABOUT YOUR WHY

SEASON 4 EPISODE 137 | Another Season is here! We are starting off with a blast from the past with previous Homeschool Your Way hosts DeeDee and Ximena ie. Chips & Salsa Ladies. Listen in as Janna, DeeDee, and Ximena talk about the joys and challenges of homeschooling multiple children for many years. See how the highs and lows that come with homeschooling balance out in the end with consistency and remembering to find your WHY each year as you decide what is best for your family and children.

ABOUT OUR GUESTS | DeeDee and Ximena (known as the Chips & Salsa Ladies) are two moms who have walked together through their homeschool journey, learning to savor life through every messy moment and reminding one another to enjoy the ride. With over 20 years of combined experience, they love encouraging other homeschool parents through their YouTube channel, social media, and Homeschool 101 online course. Recently, they celebrated a milestone as their firstborns graduated, embarking on a new chapter as moms of young adults. Find out more about them below

YouTube:  @ChipsnSalsaHomeschooling  Instagram: @chipsandsalsaladies

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  • Janna: If you didn't know they were the first hosts of Homeschool Your Way. Super excited to kick off Season 4 by having them back giving an update.
  • Ximena: Graduated daughter from homeschooling with one child remaining.
  • Ximena: Seasons come and seasons go if there's one thing we know about parenting is that it's ever-changing.
  • DeeDee: But to really circle back and say, Okay, I don't want it just to be out of fear. But to say what do I want to see for my kids? What are the positives that I want to bring into their life?
  • Janna: I think it's very similar to taking a road trip so you can map out how you're going to get from your start to your finish.
  • DeeDee: Well, yeah, and that's really the idea behind the name of the podcast, Homeschool Your Way to take your curriculum and take your ideas, your educational goals, but make it fun.
  • Ximena: We know they say homeschool moms don't get paid that like those are paydays for me.
  • Janna: Well, documentation is important.
  • Ximena: Just enjoy every messy moment, because it is going to be super messy. And it's going to be different every day.
  • DeeDee: And we just want to let you know it is worth it. It is so special to homeschool your kids, to form those relationships, to grow and learn together.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Aug 01, 202339:06
FINDING YOUR VOICE

FINDING YOUR VOICE

Good mood, bad mood, calm or frenzied, there’s a song that can inspire or elevate that feeling for us all. There’s a reason why every great movie has an equally great soundtrack! Singing is something that can be intensely personal but can be experienced with people of all ages and cultures. But what about the mechanics of singing? How can we easily try to fit in more music into our family lives without it becoming a painful process or without the rolling of eyes (child and parent) over song choices?  Well, we may not be able to fix the rolling eyes but on today’s podcast Janna and her guest Richard Fink, IV chat about music and singing and how to create a space in our lives for musical enrichment.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Richard is the founder of the Throga vocal technique, #1 Best-Selling Author in vocal education, and labeled as the “world’s leading online vocal coach” by the Wall Street Journal. He has worked with singers in over 100 countries around the world, including multi-platinum-selling artists, professional actors, political leaders, and Broadway stars. As a vocalist, Richard is a 3x Guinness World Record holder and award-winning singer for solo performances as Jesus (Jesus Christ Superstar) and Jean Valjean (Les Misérables). He released multiple albums as a songwriter and vocal producer between 1991 and 2005, which led to co-writing and demoing songs for top charting artists such as Josh Groban and Michael Jackson. Other career highlights as a vocal coach include adjudicating the 2016-2017 Voice of Dance Life Unite in Australia and Suncane Skale televised throughout Europe, coaching at Talent Camp at Universal Studios, and teaching Masterclasses at various Universities in the USA and Australia. Richard’s crowning achievement, however, was becoming the first and only person in U.S. history to be awarded a full-utility patent on a vocal training technique with the 7 Dimensions of Singing.

 VOCAL GYM FOR HOMESCHOOL: The Vocal Gym for homeschoolers is an online course that offers self-paced, interactive learning for homeschooled high school students interested in singing, which qualifies for a full Fine Arts or Elective credit. It also includes automated record-keeping and tools for the parents to assist their children in developing their voice for singing, building confidence, and learning to express themselves as a person, not just as a singer: http://throga.com

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Richard 00:59

Sure. So I'm a vocal coach I've been teaching for about 25 years I actually started out as a drummer when I was eight years old. Janna 08:58: But personally, if I'm, if I'm singing, we have a joke in my house that if I've asked my children to do something several times and then it moves into a sing-song, it means my emotions have been heightened.

Janna  14:40: I think that there there is a disconnect. Maybe it's not route maybe it's not prevalent in other societies. But we always see music or we have seen in the past music and elementary right with little kids.


Janna  26:19: I am really resonating with this idea of playlists, because in this day and age, it seems like we're all disconnected. We all have our earbuds in we're all listening to our own playlists.

Richard  30:04: No, the quickest way for to get them to find new music is for you to start singing along with theirs. That's like, oh, no, I need to find something else for my parents to reject. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.


May 23, 202347:13
HOMESCHOOL REFLECTIONS

HOMESCHOOL REFLECTIONS

The thing about homeschooling is that it’s personal, personal to your life, your family, and your children. Your experiences can be unique to you but can also help others who are struggling or need validation that their journey is similar or not alone. That’s the goal of Homeschool Your Way to make you feel more comfortable in your homeschool journey and help you find the community and resources you need. 

Today’s podcast gets personal as our host Janna Koch gets to ask her children, Courtney, Alison, and Ashley those kinds of questions. So join us as Season 3 of Homeschool Your Way winds down with some honesty and laughter from the Koch girls.

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SHOW NOTES |

Janna  00:00: Welcome to Homeschool Your Way. I'm your host, Janna Koch, BookSharks Community Manager. Today's episode is special because I have my girls on. And before you think this probably was a bad idea, you were probably right.

Janna 3:22: Are they positive memories about public school? 

Courtney 3:49: When we first started I thought it would be fun, just like staying in my pajamas and sleeping in like doing whatever I want at home. 

Alison 06:23: There's a stereotype any stereotype for sure that kids who walk on their toes and that's a little funny. It's just like, oh, yeah, they're homeschooled.

Alison 11:55: It's really not that bad. It really isn't. It really gave us an advantage going forward. And it, you know, had its ups and downs. Sure.

Courtney 19:36:  Start out with your with the subjects that take you the longest first or like maybe a short subject that doesn't take you very long first to just like warm up and then do your hardest or longest one.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.
If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

May 16, 202327:31
LITTLE HABITS & BIG IDEAS: CREATING A HOMESCHOOL THAT WORKS FOR YOUR FAMILY

LITTLE HABITS & BIG IDEAS: CREATING A HOMESCHOOL THAT WORKS FOR YOUR FAMILY

Education, it’s about learning little things that translate into big things and how those little things can have the biggest impact on how we view the world or how we live in it. The official start to most of our educational journeys is preschool, where the world starts to expand. But really what is preschool? Ask people and you can get different answers but intentional learning or teaching seems to be a theme. But not everyone, children especially learn at the same pace.

 As we age we talk about the seasons of life but on the chat today hear education compared to a set of seasons for each individual and the benefits that Erin (today’s guest) believes homeschooling brings to each child's life. Learn about how she was called to homeschool her children and what that looks like for her family. 

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Erin Cox is a joy-chasing homeschool mama to 4 babies, elementary to young adult. She married her grade-school sweetheart over 20 years ago and lives to love him well. Erin writes about homeschooling, taking challenging moments captive, and loving her family well at Life, Abundantly. She is the author of multiple early-years Charlotte Mason and Classically-inspired programs at The Gentle + Classical Press. She is the Founding Editor in Chief of On Mission, a quarterly culture-focused geography magazine. You can find her on Instagram @gentle_classical_press  https://shopgentleclassical.com

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SHOW NOTES | Erin  01:27: Okay, so we've been homeschooling for 12 years now. And um, I had homeschooling like, just on my heart from the time I was pregnant with my oldest child, I didn't know any homeschoolers, I knew nothing about it,  Erin 09:26: That reminds me of just the idea behind like, your listeners will have maybe heard of narration but not necessarily know what that means, or what the value of narration is? Janna  18:43: It does, I think our society has devalued the idea of seasons. I mean, we don't, we don't follow food in seasons anymore, because, to us, it's available year-round. Erin 22:13: So the way that we do things in our, in our home, and in our program like general classical preschool, is that we pick just a few things to focus on at a time because habits are developed through repetition and intentionality, we are always developing habits, it's just whether we're developing the habits that we want to develop or not.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.
If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

May 10, 202345:59
SHARE THE LIFT: MICROSCHOOLING

SHARE THE LIFT: MICROSCHOOLING

Microschool? Micro School? Micro-School? However you spell it it's all the same, a small group of kiddos of a similar age getting together to learn and explore. Homeschooling is all about choice. What you teach your kids, and how you teach your kids. Join Janna and her guest as they chat about microschooling, why the Henderson family chooses to homeschool, and what that looks like for them. 

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Natasha Henderson and her husband have two children. They have been homeschooling for 12 years. As a former public school special education teacher with an M.S. in Early Childhood Education, Natasha is very active in her local homeschool community, scouting programs, and various kids' sports and activities. In her spare time, you can find Natasha at her local library, maybe cuddled up with her cats or walking their sweet puppy, Tucker! 

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Natasha 00:51: So yeah, I never thought about homeschooling before I was a special ed teacher before I had kiddos. Natasha 02:32: Absolutely. So when I think about what micro school means to me, it's kind of like a hybrid situation where my kiddos get to experience that collaboration with their same-age peers in an environment that's different than a public school setting. Natasha 08:09: Yeah. Well, you know, we spoke earlier when we were talking about like, intention, and what does that mean? Natasha 10:59: Yeah, well, I think it's, it's hard to kind of, I think there's a lot of fear associated with, like, not feeling like you know, what you're doing. I mean, like, as a parent, you're like, you know, I'm entering my oldest is about to be a teenager, and I'm like, Oh, my gosh, I have no idea what's ahead, what I'm getting myself into. Natasha 19:00: Absolutely. And I think that that just exemplifies what we were talking about earlier about, like, there's no one way to homeschool.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.


May 02, 202338:30
A NEW WAY TO LOOK AT FRACTIONS

A NEW WAY TO LOOK AT FRACTIONS

Math is a subject that inspires so many feelings in both students and teachers. It’s a subject that some seem to automatically excel in and others struggle. One thing that remains universal is there are varied ways to teach math, which is good because kids learn differently. What makes sense to one child may seem like learning quantum physics to another, but a different way of explaining or seeing how to work a problem or understand a concept can make all the difference! Join Janna as she chats with RightStart Math VP, Kathleen Cotter Clayton about a different way to understand, look at and teach fractions.

ABOUT RIGHTSTART MATH | RightStart™ Mathematics is a complete elementary and middle-school program that uses visualization of quantities, de-emphasizes counting and provides strategies and games for learning the facts. The primary learning tool is the AL Abacus, a specially designed two-sided kinesthetic and visual abacus. Links mentioned in the podcast are here; https://rightstartmath.com/rightstart-fractions-2/

A download pdf is here; https://rightstartmath.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2022-RightStart-Fractions.pdf

RightStart Math is available for purchase at www.rightstartmath.com or www.bookshark.com/rightstart

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Request your coupon code to use on any purchase at bookshark.com. Kathleen  00:34: I am Kathleen Cotter Clayton, as you said, and I am the Vice President of RightStart Mathematics.

Janna  01:05: Well, I know that fractions can be very intimidating for people, so we are going to put them at ease. Let's start off with a hack about fractions, what can we tell our homeschool parents that they can do that can help them start this journey of teaching fractions without any of the negativity that they may have?

Kathleen 01:26: First of all, the number one thing is using a linear perspective with your fractions. So often they come in circles. I want to show you how to do it in a line. And it makes so much sense.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Apr 25, 202341:41
HOMESCHOOLING IN THE LAST FRONTIER

HOMESCHOOLING IN THE LAST FRONTIER

The last frontier, no it's not space but it may feel as vast, is the state of Alaska! With wide open spaces, it can sometimes feel even lonelier when homeschooling. But homeschooling is truly what you make it and in keeping with the premise of Homeschool Your Way today’s podcast covers homeschooling, community, and of course a helpful hack or two. Join Janna and her guest Carol Simpson, an IDEA representative, as they discuss homeschooling options in Alaska and ways to make homeschooling, if not easy, may be easier for you.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Carol Simpson has been an Alaska resident for over 40 years. She is a veteran homeschool mom and a Field Rep/Administrative Assistant for IDEA since 1997.

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QUOTABLES Janna  00:02 First of all my own experience, Alaska, it feels like a foreign country to most of us who are down here in the lower 48. Janna  08:47 I think a lot of families would be surprised to know that programs like yours exist all over the United States, just like your initial reaction of I don't want to get involved with the public school system. If I'm choosing to homeschool, they have. I mean, obviously, there are really good programs like yours.  Carol  21:14 Here's what you missed out on by not enjoying the reading aloud to your kids. What I did, so I had seven kids, you know, so you know what that means. That means my house was a mess all the time. Carol  25:49 Right? Well, I think mostly, I don't really think there are challenges that are unique to Alaska from a homeschooling perspective. Carol  33:58 Right? That would be my strongest advice for any homeschooler really, to find community, create community, and do whatever you have to do to have some community. Janna  36:2 Yes, never stop learning. I think that as homeschool parents, we can demonstrate to our children, again, that we are learning alongside them, that although we are the authority in their life, that doesn't mean we know everything, and that we are willing to learn the things that we don't know.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.
If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Apr 18, 202339:45
BOOKSHARK HIGH SCHOOL RELEASE!

BOOKSHARK HIGH SCHOOL RELEASE!

It’s here, it's actually here!! High School Curriculum! We are so excited about World History & Literature and U.S. History & Literature levels. Today's podcast is for all your questions about books in the levels, how it differs from other levels, why you should consider BookShark’s High School curriculum and more. Janna and her guest Amy R., BookShark’s Curriculum Editor and Designer, discuss the ins and outs of BookShark’s High School Curricula.

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TIMESTAMPS

Janna 00:03 Today's episode is long-awaited, we are on the verge of releasing not one, but two high school levels here at BookShark. Today I am joined by Amy Ratliff, she is BookShark’s curriculum designer. Amy  04:19 Yes, we have World History, World Literature, U.S. History, and U.S. Literature, all for a high school level. We've been working on this for quite some time. Amy  06:27 Yeah, so the overall goal for the scope and sequence of BookShark is to hit the main social studies topics three times throughout your journey, Kindergarten through High School. So you're going to touch on different, like different culture studies three times throughout your entire BookShark career Janna  16:50 It's important to be able to make those connections because otherwise, we can villainize and not to, not to say shouldn't or should, but we can villainize characters, people throughout history, through our lens, and not having the context and their perspective of what's going on.

 Janna  24:09 And if you want to see what is available, our website will be updated as this podcast comes out. So make sure to go to www.bookshark.com. And you can look at the different history levels that we have. You want to specifically look for World History High School and U.S. High School. 

Amy  35:05 Similarly to our other language arts programs, in addition to reading the fantastic literature we give you all year, we give you a series of creative expressions, which is just what we call our different writing assignments.

Amy  40:17 Thanks for having me, Janna, and yeah, if you guys liked this program, please email us because I want to share the excitement with you.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.
If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Apr 11, 202342:28
END OF THE YEAR EVALUATIONS

END OF THE YEAR EVALUATIONS

Parent and child, every journey into the world of homeschooling differs and that’s okay! But the end of the year in schooling can lead to questions of How did they do? Did they retain the information? Are they among their peers or more advanced? While state to state varies there are ways to test your student beyond the standardized test that you’ve heard of. Join Janna and her guest Marcia Manz, a former high school counselor who currently homeschools her two children and assists homeschool families in finding the best way for them to look back at their year and see what direction to head in the future. You can reach Marcia at MarciaManz@gmail.com

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TIMESTAMPS Marcia (01:22): Sure. So I, like you, probably like many people, never in a million years thought I would homeschool. It just never crossed my mind. I grew up in public schools, and I enjoyed and had a positive experience, I obviously worked in a public school for many years, so I just didn't think it was even on my radar.

Janna (03:34): So you bring a very unique perspective to the homeschool community. What is the service that you now offer homeschool families?

Janna (05:31): I would say from personal experience with those standardized tests in our family, there are times when we are like, "Oh look, they're three grades above grade level in a certain area." Marcia (08:39): Absolutely, absolutely. I know for our state, we have requirements that certain subjects be taught, but there's no rule beyond that or law beyond the, "Hey, you need to have a history in your program," but there's nothing that says what that means. Janna (12:45):: Well, especially in homeschooling, because we do have the opportunity to allow our children to be more interest led. Janna (21:30): And I'm a firm believer that a third party is always helpful in those situations because we are so blinded to the things, I hate to say it, but the things that we do well. Marcia (28:24): Well, I think my biggest suggestion in just working with as many families as I have, and I work with a lot of new families as well who are starting off whole schooling, is to take things one year at a time. (32:13): And so to encourage parents for sure, just breathe. That's my biggest thing. Goodness. We just all need to breathe. Especially if this is your first year,

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.


Apr 04, 202337:12
HOW ONE FAMILY MAKES HOMESCHOOLING WORK

HOW ONE FAMILY MAKES HOMESCHOOLING WORK

Homeschooling can start in a variety of ways for each family. Sometimes it’s brought on by location, a need for flexibility, circumstances beyond our control, and in the best of times a personal choice because it is what suits you and your child the most. On today's podcast, Janna is joined by Mama (Christal) and Cash. Their homeschool journey has been one of choice and discovery with Christal sharing the loops and turns of homeschooling on social media as they navigate what works and what doesn’t work for them. What started as a way to stay connected has turned into a way to share their journey in an effort to help and support others.

ABOUT OUR GUESTS | Christal Gamble and her son Cash, share their experiences as both a homeschooler and parent to a gifted learner on her social media platform @mamasweetbaby. Christal offers support to any parent interested in learning at home and shares free educational resources, events, competitions, curriculum reviews and books. You can see more on Christal and Cash on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok and Youtube @mamasweetbaby.

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TIMESTAMPS

Christal (00:34): So I'm actually a homeschooler out of Madison, Alabama, and I chose to pretty much document my journey with Cash from a very young age.

Janna (01:29): So Christal, when you were looking at furthering Cash's education as he became school-age, what drew you to homeschool?

Christal (01:40): So we are a different kind of homeschooling family. You have some homeschoolers that will pull out because they're displeased with their school districts. You have some that were homeschooled themselves and decided to continue the tradition with their kids. Cash attended about six, or seven months of pre-K, but the problem we ran into is that he was a gifted learner.

Janna (08:21): I agree that community is one of the biggest parts of homeschool success. And for people who are coming into it and may not be familiar with a community outside their kids' friends. It's almost, in homeschool, it's kind of reverse.

Christal (20:15): It really can. The fear that's there can be easily eliminated with a little bit of self-education. The rigorous get up at whatever hour of the morning, get breakfast, get dressed, and get on a bus. If you do a little bit of de-schooling before you kind of start homeschooling, that takes care of a lot of that. We get up when we feel like it.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 28, 202331:51
COLLEGE PLANNING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

COLLEGE PLANNING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Higher education, like college, can also come with a higher price tag. It’s a daunting expense for the majority of families.  An expense that can rapidly creep up on you if you aren’t thinking ahead and even then the price of a two, four, or more-year degree can have you blanching at the thought of writing those checks.  Join Janna as she is joined by Brad Baldridge, a financial advisor and creator of Taming the High Cost of College as they discuss getting a handle on the cost of college and ways to make the process a little easier.

ABOUT OUR GUEST | Brad Baldridge is a College Funding Specialist who has helped thousands of families plan and save for college with smart and proven strategies to save time, money, and stress. As a financial expert, blogger, and host of the Taming the High Cost of College podcast, Brad has been sharing his college planning insights with clients, subscribers, and listeners for nearly 20 years. He teaches parents the best ways to save and pay for college, including how to find the right school, maximize financial aid and scholarships, avoid student loan debt, and make your children’s college dreams come true without wiping out your finances or retirement. Since 1998, Brad has become one of the nation’s leading college planning and college finance experts. He offers life-changing advice through his private practice, his online platforms, and numerous workshops, seminars, and events each year.

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Janna (00:37): Brad. I am nervous. I am nervous because I feel like... Let's just jump right in. I have probably missed some deadlines and missed the boat.

Brad (01:42): Yeah, so I'm a financial advisor, so I work with families about retirement and saving and investing and that type of stuff. I realized that college was one of the big challenges that a lot of families were up against and a confluence of events.

Brad (03:41): Right. So I would recommend sophomore year of high school as a good time to really buckle down and start trying to figure out specific plans. Now, certainly if you've got a two-year old at home or something like that, you can plan for college in the... Let's set up a savings or let's do some budgeting and that kind of thing. I would call that early stage planning where you don't know the college, you don't know a lot of details.

Janna (07:33): I think that as a parent, it's super important to understand for our children that decisions can be made and decisions can be made with as much information as we have without putting pressure on our children to have this decision made that it feels like they're boxed in.

Brad (13:54): Now, the other thing you mentioned, just to go back, is you said something along the lines of, "Well, this college is expensive and this college is not." Now, most families don't realize that colleges have a list price, but they also have what I would call a net price.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 21, 202336:11
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM 2023 HOMESCHOOL CONVENTIONS

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM 2023 HOMESCHOOL CONVENTIONS

It’s a whole new year of homeschool conventions! Whether it is your first year of homeschooling and attending conventions are a brave new world for you or you are an experienced convention-goer get some behind-the-scenes tips from the people who get to go to them all! From core curriculum to educational games there are so many options it can make your head spin, get ideas on how to break up the days, navigate the booths and find just what you want to get the most out of your convention.

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Janna (00:59): Conventions, so maybe one of these years we're going to get out there together. But as a homeschool mom, I really had never gone to a convention before I started working for BookShark. So I had been to other types of conventions, even as a homeschooler, as a kid. Probably more like trade conventions with my parents, but never a homeschool convention.

Janna (02:11): It's so nice that in this digital day and age, you can go online prior to the actual dates and see who's going to be there. You can actually typically see a map of where they're going to be. And not to be overly nerdy, but you're only there for a certain amount of time and if you want to maximize your time when you're there, you really do have to prepare.

Maddie (04:59): I think, I mean we've seen a variety of different parents who bring their kids and parents who leave their children at home. This year in our booth we're going to actually have a little reading corner, so you can actually park your kiddo if you have some questions.

Maddie (09:53): Yeah, I think again, and it kind of all goes back to that convention hall is huge, there are a million different vendors in there. And so I think having a fun fund, having a little kind of something in your back pocket that... Because some of those things you can't get anywhere other than the convention.

Maddie (15:27): Yes. So we are offering a payment plan option this year, which is fantastic because you kind of get the best of both worlds. You can spread your payments out so you don't have that one giant, what feels like a massive change all at once. You can spread it out over three, six, or nine months.

Maddie (23:24): Yeah. So this year, it's a first for us, so we are offering a giveaway. So if you're planning to come to a convention, make sure you stop by our booth, we'll have some banners and you can sign up via a QR code. It's a science package. So you can enter to win a science package and you get to pick which level you want.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 14, 202331:34
HOMESCHOOLING WITH MICHIGAN BOOKSHARK VIRTUAL

HOMESCHOOLING WITH MICHIGAN BOOKSHARK VIRTUAL

Homeschooling in Michigan? Or wanting to homeschool in Michigan? Find out how you can get a FREE literature-based curriculum with support and online assessments! Join Janna Koch, BookShark’s Community Manager, as she is joined by Jen Myers and Gwyn Domke, from Michigan BookShark Virtual with Alpena Schools in Michigan. Find out the benefits of using Michigan BookShark Virtual with Alpena and get it for no cost to you!

OUR GUESTS | Jen Myers

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Janna (00:10): My guests, Jen Myers, and Gwen Domke are from Michigan BookShark Virtual. Jen and Gwen are immersed in homeschooling both personally and professionally. Not only have they homeschooled their own children now facilitate homeschooling for numerous families across the state of Michigan. Their program has equipped parents to homeschool confidently and successfully.

Gwyn (02:16): So my side of things is coming alongside Jen when we started the program and looking at Michigan BookShark Virtual, the opportunity is I homeschooled my kids for 16 years using the curriculum. So for me, it was just a natural fit to help families use this amazing curriculum because I know it works.

Jen (05:29): And the third thing I'd like to mention that's unique about the virtual component of this curriculum is the online graders. So with a traditional online program, your online grader might be somewhere in a different state and not have a pulse on your expectations or your autonomy as a parent with this online curriculum. Whereas our online graders work personally with our program so they understand the nuances of this curriculum and they understand our families.

Gwyn (11:20): Another benefit of BookShark is it is a four-day curriculum. So families absolutely love the fact that it's four days of focus and then they have one day left in the week for enrichment or other purposes for their families. That offers so much more flexibility.

(21:08): All right, ladies, you have me sold on this program. If I were to live in Michigan and I was contemplating that I wanted to homeschool and know that this is the right choice for me, what would be my next practical steps as a parent interested in Michigan BookShark Virtual?

Gwyn (21:27): So you would reach out to me through my email, which I think you will have included at the end of this podcast. Tell me you're interested. I will contact you and discuss how you will enroll with our district for the year using this free virtual online component. We will ship a box of curriculum to you directly and come alongside you and help you set up your year.

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Mar 07, 202332:11
GETTING BACK ON TRACK

GETTING BACK ON TRACK

We all know life happens. Good or bad life seems to relish throwing out the best-laid plans. So what to do when life does get off track? Join Janna Koch, BookShark's Community Manager with her guest, Tanya Warpula, an advisor for BookShark, a military wife and mother of 5 who homeschools as they discuss getting back on track.

TIMESTAMPS:

Janna (02:29):

I bet. Now, in the years that I've known you, you have done two moves and one of them was just up the coast, but this last one was cross country.

Tanya (05:07):

Yes. This is my situation exactly. Right now, I feel like we've been in weeks 16 for 16 weeks. I'm in that exact situation. I really, I'm like, "Why is this one week taking us so long?" Yeah, you have to start... This week alone I started a reset. We're starting over pretending like we're fresh and we've started week 16 again for the last time this week on Monday.

Janna (07:46):

The last six years in February, we have already been to almost week 20 knowing that we have four more months of school left. This year it's gotten away from me. Sometimes I feel like that pressure almost paralyzes me. Then I don't end up doing anything or very little and then I'm in a vicious cycle.

Janna (13:13):

To give parents permission to get comfortable with switching some things out. If you feel like they already know what you're talking about then speed it up, and skip over it. It's okay.

Tanya (15:34):

Yes. I have been guilty of being a box checker because I am a type A person. This is my first year really feeling more derailed than others probably, because of our move, three kids moving out, and a lot of family stuff going on. It's been hard, but I've also had to let go of type A and embrace where we're at. If we're on week 16 in February who cares?

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Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.


Feb 28, 202325:44
MASTER ART IN HOMESCHOOL

MASTER ART IN HOMESCHOOL

What is it about Art that feels so intimidating to teach? People teach all types of subjects with less hesitation than the idea of teaching your student how to sketch, paint and more.  Join Janna with her guest Cody Wheelock, founder and creative arts coach of Fount Atelier as they discuss how to incorporate art into your homeschooling and the challenges that can come with teaching the subject.  Learn about the top 3 hang-ups that can prevent you and your student from reaching your creative art goals or maybe how to set goals and pass up the hang-ups altogether!

Janna (00:47): I'm excited to talk about art because, to be honest, it's not something that I have ever really ventured into or instructed my children in when we were homeschooling.

Cody (04:35): And what's interesting is that studies have shown that most adults actually draw at about a 12-year-old level.

Cody (07:23): I think the second hang-up that a lot of people face after just thinking they can't do it, is they don't know how to do it. They lack a plan.

Cody (14:14): Yeah, absolutely. I always think back to those artists from the past, and a lot of times we like to see their drawings and all of the pieces they did, and I wonder how many of them think, oh, I hate it that you're looking at that stuff because I never intended anyone to see that.

Janna (21:42): So as a parent, aside from art, but art as an example, how do you keep your child from hearing personal criticism versus an instructional correction?

Cody (24:50):

Yeah, you're absolutely right. And that's great advice on asking questions to get a feel for where things are at before you just start making comments.

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QUOTABLES

TIMESTAMPS

Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Feb 21, 202339:27
Banish Winter Lag

Banish Winter Lag

Feeling unmotivated to homeschool? Things are just harder, whether getting up with the alarm or getting through the assignments for each day? Join BookShark's Community Manager, Janna Koch and Aimee Eucce, owner of Play 'n Talk, in a lively discussion on how to banish the doldrums of winter. From metal detecting along a streambed to using army figures for math, store up the great ideas for you and your student and get tips on how to give yourself grace and to learn to adapt as life moves along.

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TIMESTAMPS

[00:01:00] It is a 60-plus-year-old company. I am not 60-plus years old, but I am the current owner and I am bringing it back to today's generation and I am loving it. I learned to read with it when I was just five years old.

[00:02:00]I shared with our listeners earlier in the year that I had gotten a sunrise alarm clock that will slowly brighten up and light up your room to help wake up.

[00:05:15]That's just the beauty of being a homeschooler you can do that if you decide, you know what, we just need to take a break on this and we're going to do this instead today.

[00:06:30] Then when the spring comes and you have more energy and the kids have more energy, you can rebound your efforts and there will be days that you can double up on things if you feel the need to get through it all.

[00:09:30] Well, gaming, so gamifying things is, I think, the key to everything because there are actually been studies done that show that kids learn best from play-based learning.

[00:14:30]Making sure that they're vested in it.

[00:16:00]I think that is something that a lot of parents, myself included, get caught up in the curriculum and forget to include our children.

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Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com.

If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

Feb 14, 202325:11