HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Did you know there are many different ways to homeschool your kids? Most parents think homeschooling has to look like a traditional school at home — but it doesn't! In this episode, you'll get a quick, clear overview of  some of the most popular homeschooling styles . From unschooling and gameschooling to classical education, unit studies, roadschooling, and more — you'll see how different methods...

What does worldschooling really look like in everyday life? In this episode, Jackie talks with homeschooling mom Sarah Moore, who shares her experience worldschooling her child. You'll hear what it was like to homeschool while traveling, how learning continued from place to place, and why education doesn't have to be tied to one location. This conversation explores the practical realities of world...

Are you looking for a simple, effective way to spark your child's curiosity and make learning come alive in your homeschool? In this episode, I dive into the world of strewing - a powerful, yet often overlooked, tool that can transform your homeschooling experience. Learn what strewing is and how to use it to create a rich, engaging learning environment that inspires your child to explore, discove...

Do you take time to play with your kids? In this episode, I share a heartfelt story about playing in the rain with Dad —and how moments like these create lasting memories and deeper connections with our children. Sometimes the simplest experiences leave the biggest imprint. This is a story you won't forget. 👉 Be sure to check out the companion article to learn more about positive parenting and ho...

What happens when a dyslexic kid grows up to illustrate some of the most vibrant children's books about science and diversity? In this episode, meet David Lee Csicsko—the artist behind  Science People , The Skin You Live In , and more. He shares how art, curiosity, and determination shaped his path. You'll hear surprising stories, meet fascinating scientists through his work, and discover how his...

Wondering if homeschooling is the right choice for your family? You're not alone. In this episode, we'll talk through key questions to help you decide with confidence, so you can make the choice that's best for you and your child. 🎯 If you'd like personalized guidance, schedule a one-on-one homeschool consultation and get the clarity you need to move forward. 🔗 Click here to visit the companion...

Are you feeling frustrated with homeschooling? You're not alone—and often the problem comes from treating homeschooling like public school at home. Homeschooling is about freedom, flexibility, and connection—not replicating the classroom. Tune in to discover how you can make homeschooling a more positive and successful experience for both you and your kids. 👉 Learn more here:   https://homeschool...

What's the real reason you chose to homeschool? And what keeps you going when things get hard? In this episode, we're diving into the power of knowing your why —not just for homeschooling, but for anything that matters in your life.  🎯 Want to go deeper?  If today's episode got you thinking, click here to check out the companion article and video. 👉 Sign up for my newsletter: You'll get weekly h...

In this episode, I share which math manipulatives are truly worth using, how they help children understand math concepts more deeply, and how to avoid overbuying tools you don't need.  If your child is struggling with math (or you're feeling overwhelmed by options), this episode will help you simplify and choose confidently. Click here to discover math manipulatives.   © 2018–2026 HomeSchool Think...

Feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home and life? In this episode, I share my personal journey with decluttering—from tackling sentimental items to overcoming the fear of letting go. As a homeschooling parent, I know how hard it can be to balance everything, and simplifying your space can make a world of difference. Tune in for practical tips, relatable stories, and motivation to help you...

Do your kids thrive when they're outside? In this episode, I'll introduce you to the concept of nature-based education. This episode will inspire you to turn the natural world into your best classroom. Want to go deeper? Check out the full article on nature schooling—it's packed with practical ideas, book suggestions, and curriculum resources to help you bring even more outdoor learning into your...

Are you worried you might be letting your child fall behind—especially when they seem to be learning in their own way? In this episode, you'll hear a real coaching session with a homeschool mom who's questioning whether she should step in more or trust the process with her eight-year-old. What starts as a concern about spelling turns into a powerful mindset shift that many homeschooling parents ne...

In this episode, Jackie invites you to step back and look at how you're showing up in the many roles you hold—as a parent, teacher, partner, and manager of your home. Rather than judging yourself, you'll learn how curiosity can reveal the thoughts behind your actions and the results you're getting. This simple question can help you gain clarity, shift your mindset, and make meaningful changes—with...

Have you ever wondered what unschooling really is? We're unpacking what unschooling is, what it isn't, and how it works in real life. You'll also hear a bit about the history of unschoolin g, including key figures like John Holt and the ideas that shaped this unique approach to education. If you're curious about giving your kids more freedom in their learning—or just want to understand unschooling...

Have you ever wondered why mindset comes up so often on HomeSchool ThinkTank—right alongside curriculum, schedules, and homeschool logistics? In this episode, I'm sharing why mindset became the foundation of how I support homeschooling parents—and why it's often the missing piece between feeling overwhelmed and feeling confident. You'll learn: Why "trying harder" or "toughening up" isn't the solut...

Most teens head to college without real clarity—and that lack of direction often leads to changes of major, extra years of school, and unnecessary stress for families. In this episode, Jackie talks with Beth  and Greg Langston about how parents can help teens identify their strengths, values, and purpose before making college decisions. This conversation goes beyond applications and essays to focu...

In a world where kids learn to swipe before they can write, is handwriting still worth teaching? In this episode, we explore why teaching your children to write by hand—both print and cursive—is still essential. You'll discover the hidden benefits of handwriting, how it impacts brain development, memory, and learning, and why it's more than just a lost art. Get more information about handwriting a...

In this episode, I share why your connection with your child matters more than any curriculum. As a homeschooling mom, I share my homeschooling journey and the hard lessons I learned when I let curriculum take priority over my relationship with my children. I'll show you how focusing on connection can help prevent challenges, strengthen your bond with your children, and create a more rewarding hom...

What does a real homeschool day look like—especially when it doesn't go as planned? In this episode, I share one ordinary (and very flexible) day in our homeschool life where learning happened outside the box. From dentist appointments to obstacle courses and impromptu learning moments, you'll hear how we embraced the day—and how this kind of flexibility is one of the biggest benefits of homeschoo...

In this episode, marriage counselor Ron Price shares practical insights for improving relationships and navigating conflict in a healthier, more productive way. Ron is the author of the Play Nice in Your Sandbox series, and his approach is simple, relatable, and surprisingly powerful. The ideas he shares in this conversation apply to any relationship—marriage, parenting, friendships, work, and bey...

In this episode, I explain why I discuss and recommend books beyond homeschooling topics. I share how books on mindset, relationships, and personal growth support parents—and why they matter just as much as curriculum. Click here to see my book recommendations   © 2018–2026 HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Have you ever wondered if you could homeschool your kids while your family travels? In this episode, we take a realistic look at roadschooling —a form of homeschooling that blends education with travel and real-world experiences. You'll learn what roadschooling actually is, why families are drawn to it, and what learning can look like when it happens beyond the walls of a traditional classroom. We...

Even when you love your kids and believe in homeschooling, it can still feel like too much. Too many decisions. Too much responsibility. Too much pressure to get it right. If you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in your head trying to figure everything out on your own, this is for you. I share how carrying a heavy mental and emotional load can quietly wear you down—and what actually hel...

There's no shortage of homeschool curriculum… but that doesn't mean you need more choices. You need a better way to choose. In my second interview with Cathy Duffy, we talk through the decisions that matter most—what to figure out before you buy anything, the biggest mistake new homeschoolers make, and how to avoid getting pulled into someone else's "perfect" plan. Learn more and watch both interv...

Want to explore museums without spending a fortune? In this episode, I'm sharing how you can save big on museum visits with a little-known membership perk that offers access to hundreds of museums—science museums, art museums, history museums, and even botanical gardens—at a fraction of the cost. Whether planning local outings or traveling with your family, this simple strategy can open the doors...