November 19, 2025

Episode 379 - The Lessons That Stick Aren't From a Textbook

22 minutes

Hey everyone, welcome to The Smiling Homeschooler Podcast. Todd flies solo this week and he shares an honest look at homeschool basketball season — the joys, the exhaustion, and the commitment to showing up for our kids. He encourages parents not to feel guilty about what they aren’t doing, but to celebrate the memories they are making.

Todd then dives into the idea of “electives” in homeschooling — and why in a homeschool environment, everything can be an elective! From animation to hair styling to basketball, the things your children love can be just as valuable (or more valuable) than the so-called “core” subjects.

As the holidays approach, remember that enjoying the season is school. Holiday crafts, traditions, decorating, and serving together are the real-life lessons your children will carry into adulthood.

We want to thank Teaching Textbooks for making The Smiling Homeschooler possible. Their match curriculum helps thousands of homeschoolers smile each and every day, and we would encourage you to check it out for next school year over at teachingtextbooks.com.

Also, today’s show is being underwritten by Samaritan Ministries, a community of Christians who pay one another’s medical bills, helping families take a safe step of faith as they feel God’s leading in career or ministry changes, or in bringing moms home. You can learn more at SamaritanMinistries.org/familyman

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By The Smiling Homeschooler

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136136 ratings

November 19, 2025

Episode 379 - The Lessons That Stick Aren't From a Textbook

22 minutes

As the holidays approach, remember that enjoying the season is school. Holiday crafts, traditions, decorating, and serving together are the real-life lessons your children will carry into adulthood.

...more