The Happy Homeschooler Podcast

Teaching math as an unschooler might seem like a contradiction at first, but Holly and Jennifer are here to show you it doesn't have to be! In this episode, they explore how families who follow an unschooling philosophy can approach math in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and rooted in everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned unschooler or just curious about what a less structured approach t...

Using your local library to support your homeschool can be a time saver and stress eraser, and Holly and Jennifer are here to show you how! In this episode, they dig into the many ways homeschooling families can take advantage of this free and often overlooked resource. From borrowing books and educational materials to programs, events, and services specifically designed for kids and families, you...

One of the questions homeschooling families often ask is how to create school events for your homeschool, and Holly and Jennifer are here to show you it's more doable than you might think! From Valentine's Day parties and open houses to prom and sports days, traditional school events can absolutely have a place in your homeschool life. Tune in as Holly and Jennifer share practical ideas for bringi...

Get ready to laugh, because this episode is all about the funny things about homeschooling! Holly and Jennifer share some of their favorite hilarious moments from their years of homeschooling their kids. If you've ever had a lesson go completely sideways or said something as a homeschool parent that you never imagined you'd hear yourself say, you'll feel right at home here. Sit back, relax, and en...

If you've ever wondered how to get involved with your homeschool community, this episode is your guide! Holly and Jennifer explore some of the best ways to find your people, from joining local homeschool Facebook groups and attending park days to tapping into the resources your local library has to offer. Community is out there waiting for you, and sometimes you just need to know where to look! SH...

In this episode, we break down the top 10 reasons to homeschool. From flexible schedules and personalized learning to stronger family connections and real-world education. Whether you’re homeschooling already or just exploring the idea, this conversation offers practical insights, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on education outside the traditional classroom. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website!...

It can be challenging figuring out how to teach current events. They can be stressful, controversial, or just plain confusing. Never fear! Today, we sit down with Emily Glankler of Anti-Social Studies to discuss history, current events, and all the ways they're two sides of the same coin. Whether you're a new homeschooler or an old pro, this episodes is chock full of great tips for teaching curren...

Today, we review our latest homeschool book club selection: The Teenage Liberation Handbook, by Grace Llewellyn. Learn all about the ways your teenager can build their independence to secure their future! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at  happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and joi...

Today, our hosts tell you all about their experiences hosting a panel at the Texas Homeschool Expo. And then, we discuss some concerning homeschool news out of New England. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at  happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on  Facebook ! Follo...

Whether you're brand new or a longtime homeschooler, everyone wonders how to plan a school year. It can be daunting to get all your ducks in a row, but we've got two experienced homeschooling moms who are ready to give you all the tips you need to make sure your year of homeschooling goes off without a hitch! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at ...

Grading your students can seem intimidating, but grading doesn't have to be hard! Today, we discuss different ways to assess your students, what challenges there are for homeschoolers, and how you can make sure that grading your students doesn't raise your blood pressure! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at  happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Tr...

Today we're joined by the founder of SEA Homeschoolers Blair Lee, to discuss her secular homeschooling organization. Tune in to learn all the ins and outs of the wide world of secular homeschooling! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at  happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our...

Are you ready to learn all about Outschool? In this episode, we’re joined by Felecia Woods, an experienced teacher with Outschool, to talk about what online learning can look like when it’s engaging, flexible, and student-centered. Felecia shares insight into teaching in a virtual classroom, how Outschool supports diverse learners, and ways homeschooling families can use online classes to suppleme...

In this episode, we sit down with Jasmine Lee, founder of the Texas Homeschool Expo, for an inside look at one of the largest homeschool events in the state. Jasmine shares what inspired her to create the Expo, how it serves homeschooling families, and what parents can expect when they attend. From connecting with curriculum providers and local resources to building community and confidence, this...

People are always asking how to homeschool without going broke, and in this episode, we break down practical, realistic ways to keep costs under control without sacrificing a quality education. From choosing budget-friendly curricula and using free community resources to sharing materials, rethinking schedules, and prioritizing what truly matters, we explore how homeschooling can be flexible, affo...

Today, we take a look back at 2025 and reflect on the past year both behind the mic and beyond it. From personal milestones and challenges to the growth, changes, and favorite moments of The Happy Homeschooler Podcast, this episode is a candid look at where we’ve been and how the journey has shaped us. Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about lessons learned, gratitude, and the communit...

Today, we sit down with author Leslie M. Martino to discuss what to do when your homeschooling feels stuck. Learn all about about breaking through homeschool burnout and finding your momentum again. Leslie shares insights from her own experience as both a homeschooling parent and writer, offering gentle guidance for recognizing when things aren’t working, understanding the root causes, and taking...

Today, we're looking at the top homeschooling trends of 2026. We'll be looking ahead to the ideas, tools, and approaches shaping the future of home education. From AI tools to project based learning, we break down what parents can expect in the coming year. Whether you’re planning your first homeschool semester or refining a long-standing routine, this episode offers insight and inspiration to hel...

In this episode, we explore how tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) can become powerful tools in your homeschool. From boosting creative writing and problem-solving skills to strengthening teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, RPGs offer far more than imaginative fun. We’ll share how to choose age-appropriate systems, weave campaigns into your lessons, and support kids of all personalitie...

In honor of Halloween, we're bringing you a fun-sized episode perfect for the holiday. Today, we discuss why you don't have to be scared of homeschooling! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website! If you have any questions or comments, please email us at  happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our page and join our group on  Facebook ! Follow us on Instagram!...

It's a truth too often ignored: Homeschool parents need friends too. Today, we explore the importance of building meaningful adult friendships while homeschooling. Between lessons, planning, and family life, it’s easy for parents to lose touch with their own social needs. In this episode, we share why connection matters, how to find your people, and simple ways to nurture community. Even with a bu...

It's the topic on everyone's minds these days: How to teach critical thinking? With critical thinking skills at an all-time low, it's never been more important to ensure your kids have the requisite skills to determine fact from fiction, identify reliable sources, and learn from their mistakes. Today, we discuss how to encourage critical thinking skills in your homeschool, from games you can play...

One of the biggest questions we get from parents is "What about socialization for teens homeschoolers?" Today, we go through it all. From clubs and co-ops to volunteer work and online communities, homeschooling offers countless opportunities for teens to connect, grow, and thrive socially. We’ll share practical tips, real stories, and encouragement to help you support your teen in building meaning...

In this episode of The Happy Homeschooler Podcast, we dive into the SEA Homeschoolers Online Conference to explore how this event supports secular, eclectic, academic homeschooling families. We’ll cover what the conference offers—live presentations, vendor booths, all-ages sessions, and Q&A with speakers—and how these features help both new and veteran homeschoolers design an education tailore...

Did you know you can have field trips for every subject? Today we explore creative ways to take learning beyond the classroom. Join us as we share fun and practical field trip ideas that tie into every subject: math, science, history, literature, and more. Whether you’re homeschooling in a big city or a small town, you’ll discover inspiring options that make lessons memorable and exciting for your...