Homeschool Made Simple
For the young parents, the veteran homeschoolers, or anyone navigating the waters of homeschool options, nationally-known speaker and educational consultant, Carole Joy Seid, helps you homeschool simply, inexpensively, and enjoyably with a Bible, math curriculum, and library card. Great books have the power to build godly family culture and give educational success! If you need a weekly shot of encouragement and support to continue on with confident joy in your homeschooling journey, listen in.
Episodes
338: Writing the Story God Already Began: Betsy Hake’s Story (Part 2)
In part 2 of our episode from the archive, we continue hearing from Missionary Betsy Hake. The conversation explores healing, leadership, and God’s work through the Jericho ministry in Honduras. Betsy shares how her illness led to deeper surrender, honest reflection, and a willingness to empower gifted leaders. She also tells the remarkable story behind her book, The Road to Jericho, and offers pr
337: What Is God’s Purpose in My Suffering? Betsy Hake’s Story (Part 1)
Suffering and pain can be such a challenge in our lives. How do we approach the Lord when we face this? In this episode from our archive, Betsy Hake of Jericho Ministries shares how her trust in the Lord was strengthened through cancer treatments and God’s financial provision to pay for them. The little miracles along the way were signposts that God was using it for His purposes. Her daily relianc
336: What’s on the Nightstand? Books and Authors Carole Is Reading Right Now
We haven’t heard what Carole has been reading in quite some time! She shares what she’s reading, including Irish fiction, a biography about Audrey Hepburn, Christian nonfiction, and books she enjoys with her grandchildren.She discusses books like This Is Happiness, The Anxious Generation, Shaking the Nickel Bush, and The End of the Affair, with reflections on family reading, faith, resilience, gra
335: Why Homeschool Freedoms Are So Important with an HSLDA Lawyer
What gives parents the right to homeschool, and are those rights permanent? The discussion today with HSLDA Lawyer Amy Buchmeyer explores the legal history of homeschooling, recent threats to our homeschooling freedom, and simple ways families can get involved. Learn how to check your state’s requirements, track legislation, and get support through HSLDA. Join us to learn why advocating for homesc
334: How Homeschooling Cultivated a Lifelong Love of History with Kendyll Keene
History is everywhere, but children don’t have to learn it as a dry timeline. Rachel’s conversation with Kendyll Keene offers a thoughtful look at homeschooling with history through stories, museums, historical fiction, family traditions, and the experiences of ordinary people.Kendyll’s shares why she loves history so deeply and they talk about historical nuance, asking better questions, consideri
333: The Sweet Gift of Growing Up Together With Kendyll Keene
What does a homeschool graduate appreciate about their upbringing? Rachel Winchester sits down with Kendall Keene’s to hear about her experiences being homeschooled from third grade through high school. Homeschooling gave her freedom to pursue ballet, teaching, reading, cooking, and travel while allowing her siblings to develop their own interests. Kendall describes how daily life together strengt
332: Creating a Joyful Home Atmosphere Through Words of Blessing, Part 2
Does the atmosphere in our home have a long-term impact on our children? In this episode from our archive, Mellany Zepelak continues the conversation with Carole Joy Seid about cultivating an encouraging atmosphere in the home through intentional words and actions. Parents play a powerful role in modeling kindness and blessing, which children then emulate among themselves. Children often view thei
331: Creating Margins So Homeschooling Works for Real Life-Part 1
Homeschooling and family life can drain the life out of us. How do we maintain a right attitude and perspective in our families for the long haul? In an episode from the archive, Carol talks with consulting client Mellany Zepelak about how learning to create margin in her life and receive God's love has transformed her family life. They discuss how adding personal downtime, encouraging a positive
330: How to Build a Homeschool Mom’s Reading Life
Rachel Winchester returns, joined by Kara Beck and Linda Sarna, in this episode to discuss the role of reading in their journeys as homeschooling moms. They share how their love of literature evolved through different seasons of motherhood and affirm the deep value that fiction and narrative hold in their personal growth. They get practical by sharing ways to choose books, whether through planning
329: Meaningful Reads and Real Conversations From the ‘Well-Read Mom’ Experience
In this episode, Rachel Winchester sits down with Kara Beck and Linda Sarna to discuss their experiences with being in a “Well-Read Mom” group. They discuss some of the highs and lows of the books they read this year from the theme “The Year of the Teacher.” To hear more about the concept of the Well-Read Mom book groups, listen to Episode 262. Between the snacks, good conversations, and lots of i
328: Ways to Foster a Love of Music in Your Family
Do you want your kids to love music (and make joyful memories together)? In this episode from the archive, Carole shares relaxed and creative ways to add classical music to your homeschool—no stuffy lessons or stress required! This episode is chock-full of resources and easy tips for composer study, favorite books, sing-alongs, bible verses set to music, and a balanced idea of when to start formal
327: Fostering a Love of Art in Our Children
Do you want your child to develop a love of art? This episode from the archive shares doable ways to make art a natural part of your homeschool routine. The discussion explores how to spot good art, some must-have book picks, and why quality matters—even when you’re on a budget. Learn about resources from classic children’s art books to tips for visiting museums and setting up a creative space at
326: Handwriting Made Simple: Why Waiting to Write Works Wonders
You know we say “better late than early” in our method. In this episode, Carole and Rachel focus on why it’s actually better to delay formal handwriting work, especially for boys, and how following your child’s developmental cues can make learning much more enjoyable. One concept discussed was using fun, hands-on activities and a simple, artistic approach, like the Getty-Dubay Italic method, to bu
325: Math Made Simple: Games, Manipulatives, and Curriculum Tips for Homeschoolers
Not sure how to make math work in your homeschool? This episode is packed with down-to-earth advice for keeping math simple, not starting too early, and helping your kids enjoy it! Several points were raised, including using games and daily routines to build math skills naturally, plus an honest look at popular programs like CTC Math and Right Start Math. If you want your kids to love math—and you
324: Why Psalty the Singing Songbook Belongs in Every Family’s Toolbox
Psalty has been a staple in some Christian families for decades. Carole and Rachel discuss the depth that the Psalty albums provide for growing our children’s faith for the long haul. They discuss the themes in each album and other music that have shaped JJ and her grandchildren. They talk about practical ways that encourage kids to reach for Psalty. Your young child will be enchanted by Psalty, s
323: How to Quiet Outside Voices and Trust This Homeschool Path
In part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with homeschool mom of 4, Hanni Go shares her journey of breaking free from the pressure of following other homeschooling families. She has chosen to value relationships and nurturing her children over the academic rigor that others might expect. Carole’s proven teaching methods and the example of the many families who have used them have encouraged Hanni to ditc
322: Finding a Fresh Perspective About Homeschooling Brings Life
In this episode from the archive, Rachel Winchester talks with Hanni Go, a homeschooling mom of 4, about searching for a fresh homeschool perspective that helped revitalize their family dynamic.Hanni talks us through the balancing act between nurturing relationships and academic pursuits. Though it took some time for her to fully buy into the Homeschool Made Simple method, she now sees the benefit
321: Cultivating Beauty and Creativity in Everyday Life Part 2
In the second part of our conversation with Lovely Bits Magazine writer and homeschool mom, Nicole Brignolle, we discuss the value of curiosity, connecting with local history, and seeing beauty in everyday life—not just chasing big, expensive adventures. We discuss the importance of rereading trusted classics, resisting performance-driven schooling, and nurturing each child’s uniqueness. Plus, we
320: Expats Homeschooling In Italy Part 1
In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful m
319: Raising Healthy Kids at Home: Nutrition, Sleep, and Faith with Dr. Bill Sears, Part 3
In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well
318: Finding Joy in Homeschooling a Child with Special Needs
We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 yea
317: Trusting the Family Educational Process For the Long-Haul in Homeschooling
Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year
316: Create a Rich Homeschool Through Connection, Consistency, and Carole Joy Seid’s Method
Part 1 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year
315: Trusting God and Homeschooling Through Unexpected Difficulties
How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for r
314: Great Books to Relearn American History as a Parent
Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enrichi
313: Thriving Teen Boys: Homeschooling with Strong Parent-Child Relationships
Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David
312: Transitioning Your Teenaged Girls From Childhood to Adulthood
Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningf
311: Older Children and the Power of the Family with Dr. Sears, Part 2
Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren.Other topics they discuss:+ investing time in the early
310: Attachment from the Womb: Dr. Sears’ Advice for Young Families, Part 1
In part one of this special three-part series, Carole Joy Seid sits down with her longtime friend and author, Dr. William Sears, a leading voice in attachment parenting. They discuss the science and heart behind attachment—from the earliest days in the womb to toddlerhood and beyond. Learn how talking, singing, and even humming to your unborn child lays a foundation for lifelong bonding, and why p
309: Managing Large Homeschool Families with Joy and Flexibility
Today, in part two of Rachel’s conversation with seasoned homeschool parents, Jason and Bre Kemp unpack the real-life strategies behind managing their family of 7. You’ll hear how they prioritize meaningful family dinners, find community both inside and outside the homeschool world, and intentionally build lasting memories through serving and working together. Perfect for parents seeking practical
308: Fostering a Grace-Filled Educational Balance Through Work, Study, and Service
Rachel Winchester welcomes Jason and Bre Kemp, experienced homeschool parents from California, to share their family’s journey with their five children. The conversation centers on fostering a balanced approach to education through the “three-legged stool” concept: work, study, and service. Jason and Bre discuss how they incorporate daily work and service into their children’s routines, including
307: Building a Love for Reading in Our Children
“The chores aren’t done…Should I really sit down to read?” In this excerpt from one of our in-person workshops, JJ Seid explains why a home filled with books matters more than wealth or degrees for your kids’ future. He discusses research and encouragement for busy parents, showing that reading is a powerful act of resistance in a screen-heavy world. Reading aloud, surrounding your kids with books
306: “I Read More Books in One Year Than My Entire Life”
The story of Justin and Sissi Little is sure to encourage you as you consider homeschooling. They share their paths of coming from divorced homes and public school to recognizing their need for Jesus then jumping into homeschooling. The Littles discuss their initial worries, their desire for their children to be outside, the role of community and seminars, and the freedom the Homeschool Made Simpl
305: Don’t Outsource High School! Build a Biblical Foundation and Launch Strong (Part 5 of 5)
Are you homeschooling a high schooler or planning to? In this episode from the archive, we delve into the “golden years” of homeschooling, exploring the crucial role of parents in shaping your children's education during this impactful stage. We talk about the importance of keeping your teenagers close during this pivotal stage, maintaining hands-on discipleship and influence while preparing your
304: Shaping Character and Faith During the Transitional Middle School Years (Part 4 of 5)
The transitional period between childhood and adolescence can be daunting. However, it is also key to shaping their spiritual growth.Carole Joy Seid and Rachel Winchester discuss the importance of understanding middle schoolers' developmental needs. Cultivating an environment where children are free to embrace both their lingering childhood tendencies and the emerging traits of independence and re
303: When and How to Turn Up Academic Rigor- Homeschooling Elementary Children (Part 3 of 5)
These years are when the "better late than early" approach is so important as parents prepare their elementary-aged kids for a gradual transition to more serious studies in middle and high school.When homeschooling elementary-aged children, we want to take things slowly. Academics should build over time to prevent academic burnout.Carole and Rachel discuss integrating study, work, and service by d
302: Is There Such a Thing as Too Early? Homeschooling Preschool-Aged Children (Part 2 of 5)
Have you wondered what the best approach to educating your preschooler is? In this episode, we delve into the crucial preschool years and the essential aspects that lay the foundation for educational success.Rachel and Carole emphasize the importance of viewing preschool as a time for bonding, laying the foundation for future success, and fostering a love for learning through work, service, and st
301: What Exactly Is The Homeschool Made Simple Approach? (Part 1 of 5)
Are you looking to understand the Homeschool Made Simple method in a nutshell? In this episode from the archive, we explore the research-based, interest-led, and literature-rich approach to homeschooling. Learn how to create a customized curriculum that fits your family's unique needs.Embrace a holistic view of education that nurtures warm, loving homes and allows your children to pursue their int
300: Homeschooling to Higher Education: A Success Story
300 Episodes! We are celebrating you, our faithful listeners and homeschool community, for coming alongside us on this wonderful journey. In honor of 300, we want to celebrate a homeschool graduate! We love to hear from students who were homeschooled using our methods, because they are the most amazing people you will ever meet!In this archived episode, Carole sits with Sienna DeMoss who recently
299: Confident Kids, Critical Thinkers: How Homeschooling Transformed the Cavin Family
In this episode from the archives, The Cavins were your typical public school family until their oldest daughter started to experience difficulty in her math classes. After homeschooling now for four years, they share a few of the things they've learned and experienced in making this switch for their family.In this episode, you'll hear about:what prompted the Cavins to start homeschoolinghow the C
298: Is There A “Right” Way to Homeschool?
Do you ever find yourself looking for the ”right way to homeschool?” Sometimes we get swept up in doing what others are doing and then find ourselves frustrated with the results. But how do we develop confidence to do what's right for our family, even if it isn't what everyone else is doing?In this episode from the archive, Carole sits down with her long-time friend, Kristina, to talk about their
297: Spiritual Formation and Intellectual Curiosity- Lessons from C.S. Lewis
In this episode from the archive, Dr. Jerry Root shares with Carole stories about his college days and finding faith by reading C.S. Lewis, the “author who opens more than wardrobe doors.” As we read Lewis, he leads us into portals of many other authors and books, especially old books. This week, we're discussing how reading Lewis's work spiritually forms us.Dr. Root also shares how he helps other
296: Snuggle In for a Family Read-Aloud, Papa Panov’s Special Day
Grab a blanket and some hot chocolate for a Christmas read aloud with Carole and Papa Panov! Today Carole reads a very special story: Papa Panov's Special Day.RESOURCES+9 Great Christmas Books for Children and Families+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Grab our FREE family library book list here+FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education+Attend one of our upco
295: Having a Mentor Can Make All the Difference in Homeschooling
In this episode from the archive, Carole sits down with Kara Beck, a veteran homeschool mom of eight, who shares her honest journey through decades of homeschooling. They discuss the real-life challenges and victories of homeschooling a large family. You'll hear how Kara Beck tailored education for each child, what she gleaned from her mentoring relationship with Carole, and how she taught her ki
294: Cozy Up with Carole’s Christmas Classics
One of our favorite parts of the Advent and Christmas seasons is bringing out our favorite books to share as a family. It is so special to read these stories year after year and discover new books with themes of love, compassion, and light. We love how excited our kids get when they see their old friends once again. If you're looking for Christmas books, this episode is for you.RESOURCES+Click her
293: Discovering Jesus Through the Lives of Christians Who Came Before Us with Dr. Lyle Dorsett
Biographies may be just what your child needs to learn how to live out their faith in Jesus in real life! In this episode from the archive Carole Joy Seid sits down with acclaimed author and historian Dr. Lyle W Dorsett. He discusses the role biographies can have as a supplement to the stories in the Bible, in deepening your walk. Join us!RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of the biographi
292: Make Christmas Richer with Books, Experiences, and Service
As we inch toward Thanksgiving and Christmas, life begins to ramp up a bit. You might be wondering if you have to stick your usual homeschool routines amidst all the activity of the holidays.In today’s episode, Carole talks with Sonya Manson about what their family of ten has done over the years of homeschooling during the holidays. Sonya shares how they focus on what matters most to their family.
291: Homeschool Made Simple’s Next Chapter
Today, Rachel Winchester, Carole and J. J. Seid share some exciting news about the next phase of our ministry. We explain what this change means for our mission to serve and equip parents, but now with additional opportunities—more accessible resources, expanded seminars, and a succession plan that protects the heart of what we do. We’d love to have you join us!RESOURCES+https://homeschoolmadesimp
290: Homeschool Moms CAN Make Time to Read For Themselves Every Day
Rachel Winchester sits down to share with us how she MAKES time for reading enjoyable books for herself in spite of all the to-do’s that happen each day. She shares her daily routine of creating space in her day for reading plus some tips on how to resist the urge to pick up her phone. She also gives some great book recommendations that feed her curiosity and give her encouragement as a stay-at-ho
289: Homeschooling Q&A: Dad Participation, Little Kid Distractions, and Navigating Screens
In this episode from the archive, Rachel Winchester and Carole Joy Seid answer some of the most common questions from homeschooling families. They give practical ways to involve dads in family read-aloud time, including strategies for dads who may not feel confident about reading. Carole shares creative tips for keeping younger children occupied while homeschooling older siblings, such as using sp
288: When 'I'm Bored' Becomes a Good Thing
In this episode from the archives we get practical! Rachel Winchester and Carole Joy Seid dive into the challenges of unplugging kids in a world dominated by screens and constant noise. Carole and Rachel discuss the benefits and the how-to’s for unplugging your family, how to teach children to practice silence and solitude, and having a daily rest time that benefits everyone! But as always they ad
287: Reading the Classics with Christian Eyes in Our Modern World
Rachel Winchester talks with author Nadya Williams about her new book, Christians Reading Classics. We discuss the importance of studying ancient Greco-Roman literature which can enrich our conversations in our families and our perspectives of the modern world. Nadya shares that she wrote this book to be “training-wheels” to reading the classics in order to make them feel less intimidating. Join u
286: Why Author Elizabeth Goudge Belongs on Your Family Bookshelf
Discover the enchanting world of Elizabeth Goudge in this encore episode of Homeschool Made Simple. Carole Joy Seid discusses why Goudge’s books are must-haves! Carole shares personal favorites like The Little White Horse, the Elliott Trilogy, and The Dean’s Watch, exploring how Goudge’s deeply spiritual and uplifting stories can inspire both parents and children.RESOURCES+Click here for a full li
285: Building Community and Contentment: Wendell Berry’s Books
Drawing from Wendell Berry’s novels, essays, and poetry, Carole shares how Berry’s deep love for the rural life, community, and contentment can leave an indelible mark on our lives. He paints a vivid picture of rural America and it’s values through Berry’s fictional Port William, Kentucky.If you have never read one of his books, now is the time to find yourself a Wendell Berry book!RESOURCES+For a
284: Building Strong Memories Through Shared Bedtime Stories
Today, we are talking about the power of reading together as a family and some practical tips for how you can start to make that change in your family life. Rachel sits down with her husband Jesse, their family’s main bedtime narrator, to talk about what reading together as a family looks like in their home and to share some of their favorite books with you.Listen in!RESOURCES+Click here for a lis
283: The Impact of AI on Learning and Literature: Concerns and Guardrails for Families
As technology continues to develop, you may feel more and more like we're living in a brave new world. With AI becoming more prevalent in everyday life, we want to talk about how we as parents can pursue wisdom while guiding our children through using new technologies. In this episode, Rachel Winchester sits down with Rachel Reeves, a homeschool mom and independent journalist, to discuss the poten
282: Must-Read Books for Boys and Equipping Books For Their Parents
Finding engaging books for boys can be a real challenge for parents. But after listening to this episode, you'll have a treasure trove of recommendations to explore! J.J. Seid shares more than 20 book suggestions that captured his imagination as a child and continue to captivate his own sons today. Beyond entertainment, he also discusses his favorite resources on raising boys with Biblical princip
281: The Miraculous Power and Science of Reading Aloud
One of our core values at Homeschool Made simple is to help families make their children lovers of books. In this episode from the archive, Carole shares about a book called The Enchanted Hour which is written by Wall Street Journal columnist, Megan Cox-Gurdon. Megan writes about the scientific research of the impact of screens versus picture books. Carole discusses how intentional family read-alo
280: Why Outdoor Play and Strength Challenges Are Both Needed to Grow Strong Kids
We regularly talk about getting our kids outside to play but do you know the benefits of regular strength training for our kids? How can we encourage this without it becoming a chore? Carole and Rachel sit down with Pilates instructor and homeschool mom, Lauren Wilson, to discuss what inspired her to create the OTP Kids Strength Challenge program which offers opportunities for kids to build balanc
279: Treasures of the Snow and Beyond: The Gift of Patricia St. John's Stories
In this episode from the archive, Carole Joy Seid spotlights Patricia St. John, one of the best Christian children's authors of all time. Patricia beautifully incorporates biblical truth into her writing that leaves a lasting impression on children and adults alike. Carol shares a biographical sketch of Patricia St. John and some of her favorite books by the author. Lots of recommendations of stan
278: Simple, Affordable Nature and Life Skill Projects with Curiosity Untamed’s Badge System
Carole Joy Seid sits down with Kerry Cordy, the founder of Curiosity Untamed, Frontier Girls, and Quest Clubs. Kerry shares how her disappointment with the changing direction of Girl Scouts led her to create a badge-based, interest-led learning programs that encourage hands-on discovery, outdoor activities, and character development for homeschoolers. The clubs are simple, affordable, for all ages
277: What’s On My Nightstand: Inspiring Books For You and Your Family
Need a fresh stack for your family’s read-alouds and personal reading time? In this episode, host Carole Joy Seid shares her current reading stack and other related, trusted favorites. Discover beautiful books for yourself, from novels like "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson and "Cry, the Beloved Country" by Alan Paton, to classic children’s series like "Little Britches." As always, gr
276: Why Your Family Needs Your Local Church to Be a Priority
Our spiritual development cannot thrive apart from our involvement in the local church. Unfortunately, other commitments often compete for many families time these days. In this episode from the archives, Carole and Pastor Dean Inserra discuss why active participation in a church community is crucial—not only for your children’s godly development but for the health of the entire family.In this ep
275: Encouraging Work, Reading Widely, and Other FAQs
In this episode from our archive, Carole and J.J. share some of the important questions they’ve been asked in their seminars. These are questions that many parents have as they are learning about Homeschool Made Simple’s method. Some of the questions addressed:using HMS method in a single parent householdthe purposes around the our methodaligning your schedule to fit the method in your family life
274: Starting to Homeschool? Practical Steps to Planning Your Year & Daily Routine
So you’ve got decided it's time to start homeschooling and you've learned a lot from the podcast or seminars. But you're wondering what this looks like in your everyday life. How do you plan a school year? Today, in this episode from the archive, we talk practicalities from the rhythms of the year to a family’s daily routine. From history’s yearly spine to quiet times…and everything in between. Th
273: How Dorothy Moore’s Practical Approach Transforms Homeschooling for Families
In this archive episode, Carole Joy Seid reflects on the remarkable wisdom of Dorothy Moore, wife of Dr. Raymond Moore, two pioneers often referred to as the grandparents of American homeschooling. Carole shares Dorothy’s practical strategies—like building a strong daily routine and focusing young learners on Bible, nature, and hands-on work—became the foundation to her own approach as a homeschoo
272: Why Do You Homeschool? The Real Benefits For Your Family
In this episode from the archives, Carole sits down with her son J.J. to discuss knowing the “why” behind your decision to homeschool. Whether you're considering homeschooling or you're two decades into this adventure, today we're talking about what would cause you to educate your kids at home, and what will sustain you through the years. This episode will help you refresh your memory and give fue
271: Transforming Your Home with a Loving Presence and Encouraging Words
If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of our conversation with Mellany Zepelak, start there! This episode begins with Mellany sharing the fruit of speaking blessings and encouragement to her children and her husband, noting how these efforts have shifted the tone of her household toward encouragement and empathy. Parents play a powerful role in modeling God’s love to their children. Join us!RESOURCES+
270: The Gift of Margin When Life Feels Like Chaos
Homeschooling and family life can drain the life out of us. How do we maintain a right attitude and perspective in our families for the long haul? Carol talks with consulting client Mellany Zepelak about how learning to create margin in her life and receive God's love has transformed her family life. They discuss how adding personal downtime, encouraging a positive home environment, and embracing
269: Home Anchors a Preschool Child’s Growth Through Intentional Rhythms
The early years of a child's life are crucial for their long term development and success. In this archive episode, Carole, Rachel and her husband, Jesse, discuss how home is the best nest, especially in the preschool years. They share their family’s practical rhythms—like meaningful work, daily nature walks, and lots of read-aloud time—all focused on nurturing curiosity, habits, and character. Wh
268: Homeschooling with Books Really Works with Veteran Jennifer Stowe
Today Carole sat down with Jennifer Stowe, a veteran homeschool mom of six with 27 years of experience. Jennifer shares her journey from reluctant homeschooler to advocate, inspired by Dr. Raymond Moore and Charlotte Mason. She gives practical tips for using great books, embracing time outdoors, and documenting the activities you do each day. This episode is perfect for those seeking reassurance a
267: Embrace Simplicity to Build Strong Families
In the second part of our conversation with Leila Lawler, author and homeschool mom, we get practical! How do build a strong and wise family bond that will last for our children’s lives? We discuss a healthy mindset around Christmas, Sabbath rest, seeing children as blessing and making connecting a priority. Join us!RESOURCES+Leila Lawler Blog+The Summa Domestica by Leila Lawler+Build Your Family’
266: "Tradition is a Bridge to the Past, a Foundation for the Future.” With Leila Lawler
Each memory and value we build within our family adds to the bridge our children are building for their adult life. Our guest, author and blogger Leila Lawler, has written a three-volume set on the value of building a home. In this episode, she shares about how her past informed her writings and the concept of collective memory in this 2-part interview with Carole and Rachel. How do we build a cu
265: Exploring the Globe Simply with Literature
In this episode from the archives, Carole sits down with the owner of Yellow House Story Shoppe, Chelsea Jacobs, to talk about books that we can use to give our children "Windows and Mirrors" into the world and other cultures. The Windows: seeing through the windows to other cultures and stories The Mirrors: children seeing themselves represented in stories. Join us for a wonderful list of books
264: Cultivating a Love of Reading with Classics and Trusted Authors with Jan Bloom
In this second episode with Jan Bloom, Carole and Jan remind us that true classics—books that have stood the test of time—are far more than relics of the past. These are the stories filled with innocence, joy, and the richness of family life, the very things our modern world sometimes seems to have lost. Whether it’s Wind in the Willows, Winnie the Pooh, or the hilarious works of P.G. Wodehouse, t
263: Discovering Living Books: Jan Bloom’s Journey to Building a Rich Library
This week, we continue our little series on literature because we believe in the power of books to shape us. Carole sat down with Jan Bloom, the author behind “Who Should We Then Read,” to talk about how knowing the stories behind our favorite authors brings even more richness to homeschooling. Jan shared her journey from not growing up around books to becoming a homeschooling family who loved boo
262: Why Literature and Being a Well-Read Mom Matters
Carole sits down with founder of the Well-Read Mom ministry, Marcie Stokman, to chat about how her ministry got started and the purpose behind these communities. Their mission says it all! “Well Read Mom accompanies women in the reading of great books and spiritual classics to encourage personal growth, friendship, and meaningful conversations in order to explore the human condition and reorient o
261: Why You Don’t Need to Worry About Socialization
One of the first questions many homeschooling families hear at family events or from public school friends is how will your children be socialized?"In this replay episode, Kristi Woodard, homeschool mom of eight, joins us to share her and her husband, Jason, experiences with raising children who perfectly answer this question of socialization with their community involvement, warmth, and general
260: Why Waiting Can Benefit Your Child's Learning Journey
While the world presses in on us for children to learn to read in preschool and be able to do high-level math early on, the research shows it's actually better to slow down and wait for developmental readiness. In this encore episode, Carole shares about the work of Dr. Raymond Moore and his idea that late is better than early. You'll hear: - Why we need to look at the facts instead of the neighb
259: Why Breastfeeding Is Worth Pursuing Even While Homeschooling
Sometimes we lose steam for homeschooling but we also can lose steam for breastfeeding. Both, it turns out, are so beneficial to our children! In the second part of our discussion with Lactation Consultant and Homeschooling Mama, Jill Seberger, we discuss the benefits of breastfeeding and how Jill has maintained this while homeschooling her large family. This episode will surely fan the flame to c
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