Homeschool is a Work of Heart

Send us Fan Mail Did you know you can believe that? It’s not your fault. 💛 In this episode, we’re unpacking the weight so many homeschooling moms carry, which is the belief that if their child is struggling, they must be doing something wrong.  However, the truth is that learning differences, slower developmental timelines, and unique wiring aren’t signs of failure . They’re invitations to teach...

Send us Fan Mail Simplicity scales success, and who doesn't want to experience that? Are you feeling overwhelmed as you plan your next homeschool semester?  In this encouraging episode, I will share why simplicity is your secret weapon . It's not a shortcut, but a strategy for real success.  Simplicity involves scaling back and creating space for deeper learning, stronger connections, an...

Send us Fan Mail Are you stuck in a routine that’s "fine" but far from fulfilling? Perhaps it is time to reinvent yourself. In this episode, we delve into what it means to reinvent yourself as the homeschool mom you truly aspire to be.  Through mindset shifts and powerful journaling prompts, you’ll discover how controlling your thoughts can reshape your feelings, actions, and results. We...

Send us Fan Mail What if the final five minutes of your child’s day were shaping more than just their sleep?  In this episode of Homeschool is a Work of Heart , we’re discussing the powerful and often overlooked opportunity that parents have at bedtime.  Backed by research, you’ll discover how a simple evening routine focused on safety, love, gratitude, and hope can calm your child’s mind, strengt...

Send us Fan Mail We often tell our kids that writing matters, but do they see us writing, too, or do we simply say, "Do as I say, not as I do"? In this episode, I invite you to explore the personal power of journaling as the adult in the family and why it’s a meaningful habit worth developing for yourself and modeling for your children.  Spoiler: Journaling isn’t limited to “Dear Diary”...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I share a practical and easy-to-implement writing idea that is not only fun but also offers parents a wonderful opportunity for bonding with their children.  Are you familiar with "Paired-Sharing"? In education, teachers will often pair students to read, write, or work on a project together. Why not take that effective concept and pair children with thei...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever stopped to think about your favorite teacher growing up? What made that person so unforgettable?  In this episode of Homeschool is a Work of Heart , I share a sweet moment with one of my students that led me to reflect on this powerful question.  As a homeschooling mom, you have the unique opportunity to become one of your child’s favorite teachers. You're offic...

Send us Fan Mail Are you looking for a fresh, intentional way to kick off a new month with your family?  In this episode, we delve into a powerful tool utilized by top leaders and life coaches. It is called the Wheel of Life. I want to show you how to make it work for your homeschool family.  Imagine using simple, fun, and meaningful activities to grow together in areas like family bonding, financ...

Send us Fan Mail This week’s episode of Homeschool is a Work of Heart is your invitation to step outside and breathe deeply. Getting into nature isn’t just refreshing; it's essential, so I encourage you and your family to get out and stay out more often.   Outdoor time improves focus, mental health, and family connection. Plus, after this week's listen, you’ll walk away with several prac...

Send us Fan Mail Are you raising decision-makers or rule-followers? What's the difference? A decision maker is someone who wisely decides to do the right thing. A rule-follower may stomp his feet and whine, but he does what he's told to do because he believes he has to follow the rules. Wouldn't it be better to want to follow the rules, assuming they are reasonable rules?  The bigge...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we’re tackling a powerful truth that can reshape how you and your children approach learning, chores, and personal goals: action creates motivation.   Whether it’s starting a math lesson, folding laundry, or sitting down to write, waiting for motivation can lead to wasted time and missed opportunities.  The simple act of starting (even if you don't finish in...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I dive into the critical topic of educational technology and how it’s impacting our kids’ brains and learning.  You're invited to join me as I share insights from neuroscientist Dr. Jared Horvath, who warns that screen-based learning doesn’t activate the same brain systems as hands-on, real-world experiences.  While useful in moderation, we will reflect on ho...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we will dive into the fascinating world of etymology —the study of word origins. I explore four compelling reasons to teach word roots and how they deepen vocabulary, boost reading comprehension, enhance spelling, and sharpen writing skills. I also suggest fun, simple ways to incorporate word study into daily lessons, including games, journals, and word detective...

Send us Fan Mail Do you need a little spark in your homeschool routine? This week’s podcast is music to your ears—literally! 🎶  Whether you're curious if background tunes can help your child focus or you're just looking for fresh, fun ways to energize learning at home, this episode is packed with research-based insights and creative tips.  Discover how music can inspire joy, improve mem...

Send us Fan Mail Are your kids keeping a gratitude journal? That’s wonderful! But what if we took it a step further?  In this episode, we’ll explore the beautiful shift from simply having to actively helping, and why starting a Contribution Journal might be just what your homeschool needs.  You’ll hear the key differences between gratitude and contribution, the long-term impact of encouraging kids...

Send us Fan Mail What if your child’s next question could lead to your best homeschool unit yet?  In this episode, we explore the fascinating life of Peter Mark Roget—the man behind the thesaurus—and discover how his love for order and words brought peace to a chaotic mind.  Get ready! You’ll be inspired to follow your child’s curiosity, embrace the unknown with them, and keep learning fun.  Plus,...

Send us Fan Mail Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing education, but can it replace parent-teachers like you and me? I don’t believe so. However, AI can make us even better humans by highlighting what makes us uniquely us. Specifically, in this week's episode, I'd like to expand on my three beliefs that keep fear away and bring people closer during the age of advanced technolo...

Send us Fan Mail Hey, Homeschoolers! Are you looking for a way to help your child become more independent, confident, and self-motivated? Teaching your children the art of self-evaluation can set them up for success now and in the future.  In this episode, we’ll explore how helping your children reflect on their actions, hold themselves accountable, and set meaningful goals can improve their work...

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to this week's episode, where we’re diving into a belief that may be holding kids back—shyness. Many of my students hesitate to read their work aloud, not because they are shy but because they’ve been told they are.  Labels shape self-perception, and well-meaning adults often reinforce limiting beliefs without realizing it. But what if we replaced “shy” with “thoughtf...

Send us Fan Mail 👋 Hey Homeschoolers! How intentional are you when it comes to teaching technology skills throughout your learning week?  Digital literacy is a skill that must be taught. In most states, that begins in kindergarten. While it may not feel like subject matter that speaks to you, it is vitally important that we learn and instruct our children in the many facets of technology today. ...

Send us Fan Mail This week, we're exploring the numerous reasons many families choose homeschooling—beyond academics. While homeschooling fosters strong family bonds, a safe and nurturing environment, and, most importantly, character development, much more is involved in this selfless decision!  If you are considering homeschool education or need a loving reminder of why you do what you do, p...

Send us Fan Mail Is your child unmotivated to learn? Is getting daily schoolwork done a chore for everyone in your household? You're not alone. Not to worry! I have some ideas for you. In this week's episode, we'll talk about practical ideas that will build excitement around learning and offer some mindset management for everyone involved. Write On! Want to leave a glowing review fo...

Send us Fan Mail Do you believe memorization is still an important skill to practice, or is reciting something repeatedly until you know it by heart a thing of the past? We'll discuss both sides in this week's episode, but I'm confident you'll agree that we should practice memorization with our children. After all, the brain was made to memorize! I created a Smart Kids Memorize...

Send us Fan Mail Did you grow up in a highly expressive family, a moderately expressive home, or a minimally expressive one?  What kind of family are you cultivating?  Children who grow up with a healthy level of love adjust, perform, and experience life at greater levels.  There's a whole lot of power in a parent's love for her children.  Let's talk L❤️VE! Links Mentioned in this E...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever been offended or hurt by someone’s opinions about you?  How about your kids—how do they react to harsh comments?  This week, we’re diving into a mindset shift that can transform insults into insights.  By exploring one child-focused and one adult-focused example, we’ll discuss how curiosity, reflection, and conversation can turn criticism into an opportunity for grow...