Beyond the Lesson Plans

Join us as we check in on current personal events and the transition out of homeschooling and into a different season of family life. We also discuss upcoming topics like single parenting, neurodivergent learners, ex-teachers, and the realities of homeschooling outside the “typical” mold. Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_thelessonp...

Join us as we head over to Reddit AKA The Swamp of Sadness to unpack a recent urgent care story where a doctor of 35 years claims she’s seen a total flip flop over the last decade with homeschoolers now often seem more mature, outgoing, and comfortable speaking with adults than their traditionally schooled peers. From there, we dig into what might actually be behind the shift: screen based learnin...

Lora’s  daughter Ashton, now 21 and a licensed cosmetologist, shares the real story behind growing up homeschooled.  She opens up about what her homeschool days really looked like: early mornings, chores before fun, limited screen time, and a school rhythm that was disciplined but never disconnected. She talks about earning 1,500 hours toward her cosmetology license through OTEC while still in hig...

Starting a homeschool co-op sounds simple until you realize you're also starting a policy manual, a budget, a safety plan, a scheduling system, and a community all at once. If you want more connection, shared resources, and group learning for your kids without accidentally creating a full-time job, this conversation gives you the real first steps. Lora shares hard-earned wisdom from more than 25 y...

Homeschooling is not the simplistic, isolated choice this Reddit thread makes it out to be.  Lora and Erin have  a lot to say about what actually happens when families choose it. From budget-conscious households to religious motivations, social development, curriculum quality, and the real control baked into public schools, this episode turns a hot take into a much bigger conversation. Connect wit...

Homeschooling often comes with questions, doubts, and plenty of unsolicited opinions. In this episode, we’re talking through some of the most common concerns families hear—from socialization and sports to academics, college, and finances. We’ll share practical ways to respond with confidence while staying focused on what’s best for your family. Whether the questions come from genuine curiosity or...

Unlock the secret to raising independent, confident teens with this game-changing strategy: getting them into the workforce early and behind the wheel. While many parents hesitate, fearing the risks and changes, the benefits of early work experience and driver’s licenses are profound—and transformation is just a decision away. Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagram: http...

In this episode of Beyond the Lesson Plans , we explore the real-life sacrifices and rewards of homeschooling. Discover how this choice impacts career, space, and social connections, while offering unique benefits like stronger family bonds and tailored education. We discuss the financial and emotional challenges families face, including career sacrifices and social ostracism, and how they turn th...

Join us as we dive into candid Reddit discussions about homeschooling, highlighting both the triumphs and challenges faced by families. This episode explores varied perspectives from homeschooling advocates, critics, and former students to paint a comprehensive picture of this educational choice. The episode provides a balanced exploration, emphasizing that good homeschooling demands responsibilit...

Grab your coffee and join us as we talk about what our summers looked like while we were homeschooling and things you can do to reset, rest and shift into the new school year.   Resources & Links: Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto Teaching from Rest by Sarah Mackenzie Thomas Edison Education Books Homeschool Community Resources Connect with us: email: beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com Instagr...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of homeschooling, hearing firsthand accounts from parents who were homeschooling before it was legal, and discussing how the movement has evolved over the decades. Discover the challenges, victories, and lessons learned from the pioneers who shaped the path for today's homeschool families. Resources & Links: Homeschool Legal Defense Associati...

In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of homeschooling, hearing firsthand accounts from Sarah Lee and Sarah Beth, who were homeschooling before it was legal, and discussing how the movement has evolved over the decades. Discover the challenges, victories, and lessons learned from the pioneers who shaped the path for today's homeschool families. Resources & Links: Homeschool Legal...

In this episode, Lora and Erin share their real-life experiences balancing homeschooling, household chores, family routines, and personal time. They discuss how personality traits influence scheduling, the importance of involving children in chores, and strategies for maintaining sanity and family connection. Links: The Thousand Hours Outside by Lindsay Rosette Burke FlyLady Cleaning System Connec...

Are you currently homeschooling or considering homeschooling and wondering how co-ops can fit into your family’s education plan? This episode dives into the ins and outs of homeschool co-ops, from different styles and structures to community benefits and practical tips for joining or starting one.   Links: Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) Michigan Christian Homeschool Network Faith Hom...

Feel overwhelmed? Remember, there's no one right way to homeschool. Flexibility, family values, and your child's interests should guide your choices. In this episode of Beyond the Lesson Plans , we dive into the various homeschooling curriculum styles, sharing insights and practical tips to help you select the best approach for your family's unique needs. Resources & Links: Mystery of History...

Welcome to Beyond the Lesson Plans where Relationships>Worksheets.  In this Episode, we look for the truth about learning style. Are they a myth or a powerful tool? Most educators and parents believe in the concept, but recent research suggests something different. Erin and Lora explore the VARC model. Visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic. Breaking down each style with practical i...

Welcome to Beyond the Lesson Plans Where Relationships>worksheets. Homeschooling high school can feel intimidating!! Transcripts, credits, graduation requirements, prom, senior year celebrations… it can all start to feel like too much, too fast. But here’s the truth: you  can  do this. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down in a simple, encouraging way so you can move forward with confiden...

Ready to take the plunge into homeschooling? This episode breaks down the essentials of getting started, from legal requirements to choosing the right curriculum and building community. Perfect for new homeschoolers or those considering the switch! We discuss: The necessary step of withdrawing children from public school, including the importance of a withdrawal letter and record keeping The role...

A conversation between Lora and Erin, two experienced homeschoolers, discussing their homeschooling journey, challenges, and the motivation behind starting a homeschooling podcast. They share insights, experiences, and plans for their podcast, 'Beyond the Lesson Plans'. For questions and comments, email us at beyondthelessonplans2@gmail.com. we'd love to connect with you.