Play Skillfully

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek explore the often negative perceptions surrounding math education. They discuss how math can be viewed as a puzzle and emphasize the importance of teaching math through play and real-life applications. The conversation highlights the significance of a positive attitude towards math, the role of readiness in learning, and the need for parents to mod...

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers, Keri Vasek, and Laurie Von Holdt discuss the nuances of teaching reading, emphasizing the importance of waiting until a child is ready to learn. They explore individual learning styles, the significance of storytelling, and the impact of parental pressure on children's self-esteem. Lauri shares her extensive background in education, particularly in help...

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers explores the concept of love as a fundamental trait to teach children, particularly preschoolers. She emphasizes that love is best taught through actions rather than words, highlighting the importance of modeling love in everyday life. Kathy discusses practical ways to show love, including self-love, emotional presence, and creative expressions of affection. She...

In this episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the character trait of peacefulness, particularly in the context of parenting and family life. She reflects on the chaos of the holiday season and emphasizes the importance of modeling peacefulness for children. Kathy shares practical strategies for creating a peaceful home environment, establishing calm routines, and teaching conflict resolution skills. She...

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers emphasizes the significance of kindness as a fundamental character trait that should be instilled in children. She shares personal experiences and practical advice on how to model kindness in everyday life, encouraging parents to be intentional in their actions and words. The discussion highlights the importance of kindness not only during the holiday season but...

In this episode, Kathy discusses the importance of introducing children to thankfulness from a young age. From modeling thankfulness to encouraging thankfulness through family activities, Kathy shares the value in being intentional with this character trait throughout your home. Webster defines thankfulness as "Impressed with a sense of kindness received and ready to acknowledge it." Kathy encoura...

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of finding a family rhythm that works for each unique household, especially when it comes to homeschooling children of various ages. She emphasizes the significance of engaging children in sensory and physical activities in the morning to prepare them for learning. Kathy advocates for a play-based approach to education, encouraging par...

In this episode, Kathy shares the value of using play to teach children to read, write, and enjoy math. Through stories and encouragement, Kathy conveys the message of waiting until children are ready before tackling these subjects. This episode will help you feel confident and prepared as you strive to teach these basic learning skills to your young learner. For more information, check out Kathy'...

In this podcast episode, Kathy Eggers discusses the importance of orderliness as a character trait for children, highlighting its cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. She shares personal experiences and practical strategies for creating order in the home, emphasizing the role of routines and systems. Kathy encourages parents to involve their children in the process of maintaining orderliness...

In this engaging conversation, Kathy Eggers and Hugh Hanley explore the profound impact of music on early childhood education. They discuss their personal journeys, the importance of musical play, and how music fosters social and emotional development in children. Hugh shares practical tips for parents and educators on incorporating music into daily routines and adapting songs based on children's...

In this episode of the Play Skillfully podcast, Kathy Eggers discusses the significance of character traits in children's development, focusing on the trait of wonder. She emphasizes the importance of allowing children to discover, experience, and explore the world around them to cultivate their curiosity and creativity. Kathy shares practical tips for parents on how to encourage a sense of wonder...

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and MaryAnn Kohl discuss the importance of process art and its benefits for children. They emphasize the need for self-expression, creativity, and trust in oneself. Maryann shares her journey into art and how she became an advocate for process art. They discuss the purpose of art and how it builds better humans who can think, solve problems, and lead society forw...

Ya'll, this new podcast is going to be AMAZING. Gray Roots officially launches 10/01, but you all get a sneak peak and get to know Kathy a little better at the same time. In this conversation, Kathy Eggers shares her journey to becoming a mother and her experiences as a parent and grandparent. She discusses her initial impressions of her friends and how they met, as well as her unique path to moth...

Hey all, I am getting ready to launch our new season of the Play Skillfully podcast so I thought I would re-release this timely one from last year, Enjoy!!! In this episode, Kathy talks about the approaching school year and offers tips and suggestions for making the transition a smooth one for preschoolers.  1. Start by setting goals for you and your family. Kathy’s favorite way of doing this is t...

Dr. Christy Montes joins Kathy to discuss the impact of food on children's brain function, learning, and emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of providing the body with unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods to fuel optimal brain function. While it can be challenging to navigate social situations and balance healthy eating, Dr. Montes suggests finding a balance and providing alternatives...

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers and Keri Vasek discuss the joys and challenges of parenting and homeschooling. They reflect on the importance of trusting one's intuition and not letting outside voices dictate parenting decisions. They also explore the bittersweet experience of watching children grow up and the grief that comes with it. The conversation touches on the duality of parenting, the n...

In this conversation, Kathy Eggers, Alecia Warneke, and Kari Oakley-Miller discuss the dynamics of grand-parenting and mothering adult children.  They explore the importance of maintaining a nurturing relationship with their children even after becoming grandparents. The conversation touches on topics such as setting expectations, communication, and finding a balance between supporting and respect...

In this episode, Kathy Eggers and Rachel Ryder discuss the decision to homeschool and provide resources and advice for getting started. They emphasize the importance of understanding your why and finding support from other homeschoolers. They also recommend resources such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and Instagram accounts like Days with Gray and The Work...

To get a copy of Dr. Roger Smith’s book Parenting with Influence or to learn more about their ministry, check out their website, rogersmithmd.com .  In this episode, Kathy interviews Dr. Roger Smith and his wife Jan about raising kids with an adventurous spirit. The Smiths share stories of their own children’s adventurous experiences, such as starting businesses, giving speeches, biking across Fra...

This week Kathy had the privilege to speak with Dr. Kathy Koch, founder of Celebrate Kids and discuss several hot topics for parents today. They talked about Kathy’s books 8 Great Smarts and Start with the Heart. Dr. Kathy shared some amazing wisdom about getting to the hearts of your little ones as well as your teens.  You can learn more about Dr. Kathy Koch at celebratekids.com . Check out her b...

Recently, Kathy had the privilege of spending the weekend with Rachel and Keri. During the visit they decided that their topics of conversation would make a great podcast, so they grabbed a computer and pushed record.  In this episode, Kathy discusses many “hot” topics of today. They talk about reading, parenting, self-care, podcasts, and the balance of it all. You will want to listen to this podc...

I have had the privilege of being a mother for almost 26 years. During my time as a mother, I have adopted six children, had two failed adoptions, birthed two children, gained two children through marriage, and said goodbye to one of my children (as we lost him to Leukemia on May 16, 2020). Parenting has had many highs and lows over the years and I definitely have mad some mistakes.  As I thought...

I mentioned in last week’s podcast that Keri and I recorded this podcast a couple of years ago and I was going to play some snippets for you on the show notes. However, after listening to this podcast again I decided you would want to hear the whole thing, it was good! I plan to have Keri on the show again to catch you all up on her journey of motherhood and how her life has changed since adding a...

Since Kathy and Lesli are not speaking at Homeschool Conferences this year, we thought you would like to hear them share some of the things they would tell you from a podium. Kathy has combined two of her fan favorite talks to share with you today. Grab a tissue and be prepared to take a trip down memory lane. For more information, check out Kathy's book, The Homegrown Preschooler and curriculum g...

This week we are airing a conversation Kathy had with Samantha Barnes from Raddish Kids . Raddish Kids is a subscription-based cooking club for children. Kathy and Lesli have both used Raddish Kids and love the real tools and print rich instructions included each month. This would make a great Christmas present for your children.  When cooking with children remember: 1. Safety first. Make sure coo...