Homeschooling with Technology

By Meryl van der Merwe

The Homeschooling with Technology Podcast is a weekly show, hosted by Meryl van der Merwe, where she shares ideas on how to use technology to be more productive as a homeschool parent and on how to us... more

3333 ratings

FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 322 episodes available.

Homeschooling with Technology episodes:

November 20, 2024Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers
301: Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers

This episode with guest Tauna Meyer from Proverbial Homemaker discusses Lexercise, a tech tool designed to help homeschooling families with children who have dyslexia. Tauna is sponsored by Lexercise but is really seeing a difference with her son.
Key Points:
Homeschooling a child with dyslexia can be challenging, especially when traditional methods fail. Finding affordable and effective support can be difficult.
Lexercise is a research-based, online program that uses the Orton-Gillingham approach to support children with dyslexia. It offers structured literacy, gamified practice, and therapist guidance.
Benefits:
Improved reading fluency and confidence
Addresses letter formation, spelling, and language processing issues
Offers self-paced video lessons from dyslexia experts
Provides daily practice games with points and rewards
Extensive documentation and support, including access to a therapist
More affordable than in-person therapy options
Considerations:
Screen time management may be necessary
The program uses “word neighborhood” rules and “memory hooks” which may be unfamiliar to some parents
The basic program may require additional support for children with severe dyslexia
Find out more / discount code:
Tauna shares a coupon code for a discount on Lexercise , plus more info on the program, in this post
Where to find Tauna
Connect with Tauna on the Proverbial Homemaker Facebook Page, in her Facebook Group Homeschool Successfully and on Instagram at tauna_phomemaker
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Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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28min
November 13, 2024Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses
300: Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses
Join us as we celebrate the 300th episode of Homeschooling with Technology! Host Meryl van der Merwe highlights 15 top tech tools she uses in both her online classes and everyday life. Each tool has been featured at some point over the podcast’s journey, making this episode a refresher or a first-time introduction to tools that can benefit homeschoolers. As a bonus, our show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy, is offering special discounts, free resources, and an exciting giveaway!
Exclusive Bonuses: Listeners can enjoy discounts, free items, and a giveaway! Here’s a summary:
Discounted Courses: Use code PODCAST300 for $15 off select FundaFunda Academy products until 11/19/24
Beginning Scratch Class – Intro to programming for just $40 (originally $55).
Self-Paced Photography Class – Ideal for middle and high school, now $60 (originally $75)
Astronomy Bundle – 8 modules covering stars stars and planets, discounted to $19 (originally $34)
Who’s Who in WWII Unit Study – Only $5 after discount (originally $20)
Giveaway: Enter to win all 6 FundaFunda self-paced, parent-graded courses worth $549, covering Anatomy, Computer Applications, Health, Theater, Photography, and Photoshop. One person will win all 6. You can earn up to 4 entries depending on the actions you choose to take. Closes 11/20/24 8am ET.
Freebies: Use code PODCAST300 to get any of these products free until 11/19/24
ACT Introduction
Ideal for first-time ACT test-takers, this guide helps students understand what to expect, easing them into test prep with confidence.
Can You Escape Biology Class?
A high school-level escape room game created by FundaFunda’s chemistry instructor, covering key biology topics.
Mystery of the Painted Pyramids
A geography-focused mystery game for 4th-8th graders, set in modern Egypt.
Homeschool-Friendly Contest List
A curated list of around 40 contests open to homeschoolers, including free and paid options.
15 Free Tech Tools for your Homeschool
PHET – Free interactive science and math simulations from the University of Colorado.
Canva – A comprehensive design tool perfect for creating graphics, videos, presentations, and more.
Magic School AI – An AI-powered platform allowing parents to set up customized educational tools for their kids.
iCivics – Engaging games that teach government concepts through real, interactive play.
Padlet – A collaborative tool that allows students to share work on virtual pinboards.
Edpuzzle – Makes video learning interactive by adding questions to YouTube videos.
Trello – An organizational tool perfect for managing assignments, family schedules, and personal tasks.
Scratch – A drag-and-drop programming platform that introduces coding concepts.
Duolingo – A language-learning app with gamified lessons that now includes math and music.
Vocabulary.com – A gamified platform to improve vocabulary skills.
NGPF Games – Financial literacy games that teach practical money management skills.
Google Arts and Culture – Dive into global art, history, and geography through virtual tours, Street View, and interactive games.
ChatGPT and other LLMs – Harness the power of ChatGPT or similar tools to assist with explanations, project ideas, customized study aids, field trip recommendations, and even dinner planning based on ingredients on hand.
Bookbub – Discover discounted and free eBooks on Amazon
Purpose Games – Quiz-style games on subjects like history, science, and math.

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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26min
November 06, 2024Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool
299: Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool
Crystin Morris, a homeschool mom and founder of Delightfully Feasting, shares ideas on how to approach tech literacy in a homeschool environment. She provides practical guidance for integrating tech skills into everyday learning while maintaining a balanced, holistic approach.
Key Tech Literacy Skills
Kristen outlines three foundational skills that she believes every homeschool should prioritize:
Navigation – Understanding and navigating digital devices and platforms.
Digital Citizenship – Developing an ethical and moral compass for online interactions.
Management/Stewardship – Learning to use technology wisely, balancing its benefits and potential drawbacks.
Balancing Tech and Traditional Learning
Crystin emphasizes that technology doesn’t have to be viewed as separate from traditional learning tools like books. She incorporates tech intentionally, teaching her children to value both tech and non-tech resources. This approach adapts yearly, with regular conversations and adjustments to meet her children’s developmental needs.
Recommended Tech Resources
Digital Citizenship Curriculum from Common Sense Media: Engaging, age-appropriate resources for teaching digital citizenship.
Khan Academy: Quality resources on technology and online safety that Kristen uses in her own homeschool.
Beginner-Friendly Tech Projects
Crystin recommends coding as a great introductory project, as it offers an instant, rewarding experience for kids. She also encourages integrating videos, articles, and online resources as a normative part of homeschooling to show children the wide range of educational tools beyond physical books.
Being Good Consumers, Not Just Creators
Crystin stresses the importance of teaching children to be thoughtful consumers of tech content, not just creators. This means teaching them to curate their digital experiences, exercise discernment, and make intentional choices about what they consume online.
Addressing AI with a Measured Approach
Crystin advises homeschoolers to approach AI with “measured awareness” rather than fear-driven panic. She encourages parents to focus on what they can control, build familiarity with new technologies, and remember that every major technological advancement in history was met with initial concern.
Links and Resources
Common Sense Media’s Digital Citizenship Curriculum: Common Sense Media
Khan Academy Tech and Safety Resources: Khan Academy
Blog post with a list of resources that Crystin mentions
A related post about using technology as a tool
Post about irrationally fearing technology
Where to find Crystin
Visit Crystin’s website, Delightfully Feasting, for courses and tools: DelightfullyFeasting.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delightfullyfeastingpress/
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Pursuing tech literacy in your homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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20min
October 30, 2024Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features
298: Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features

Upcoming Episode Celebration:
Episode 300 is just around the corner! Tune in when it releases to enjoy freebies, discounts, and fun activities.
Episode Highlights:
Overview of Instagram’s New Safety Features for Teens
Instagram has introduced several safety protocols for users aged 13-18, defaulting their accounts to private to limit access by unknown adults.
Parental supervision settings vary for teens aged 13-15, while those aged 16+ have more autonomy but can opt for additional parental controls.
Key Features Introduced by Instagram:
Restricted Messaging: Teens can only message users they follow, which reduces the risk of unsolicited messages from strangers.
Sensitive Content Filtering: Topics like mental health and other sensitive subjects are monitored, directing teens toward expert resources rather than peer advice.
Time and Notification Limits: After 60 minutes of use, teens receive reminders, with a “sleep mode” between 10 PM and 7 AM to limit notifications overnight.
Parental Control & Teen Feedback:
Parents can now monitor messaging activity and restrict specific app use times.
Challenges with Enforcement and Teen Workarounds:
Instagram uses AI to identify potential age misrepresentation, flagging new accounts and suspicious behavior patterns.
While these safeguards aren’t foolproof, they represent a step toward more secure use for teens.
Resources and Additional Reading:
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt for parents wanting more context on the effects of social media on teens.
https://familycenter.meta.com/instagram-safety
https://about.fb.com/news/2024/09/instagram-teen-accounts

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Instagram’s New Teen Safety Features appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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19min
October 23, 2024AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM
297: AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM
In this episode, we look at an exciting tool that can revolutionize how homeschoolers approach research and learning: Notebook LM, an AI-powered app developed by Google.
In This Episode:
What is Notebook LM?
It is an AI-powered research tool available for free from Google. It’s built on the Gemini platform and helps students (and parents) quickly summarize and organize information from multiple sources.
How to Use Notebook LM for Research
Upload various sources like PDFs, links, and slideshows. Once uploaded, it generates summaries, timelines, FAQs, and even study guides—all based on the material provided.
Key Features of Notebook LM
Summaries and Timelines: Get concise summaries and chronologies of the content, especially useful for subjects like history or science.
Study Guides and Quizzes: AI-generated questions, glossaries, and suggested essay topics help reinforce learning.
Cast Lists for Literature or History: create character bios, making it useful for literature or historical studies.
FAQs and Glossaries: Automatically generate key terms and important questions for any subject matter.
Customizable Notes and Sharing: Up to 50 sources and 1,000 notes per project. Easily share notebooks with students or other parents.
Engaging Audio Overviews – AI Podcasts
One standout feature is that Notebook LM can create audio summaries of your content in a podcast-like format. Here is a sample focused on glaciers, and it’s an engaging, conversational style designed to help students learn while being entertained.
Resources Mentioned:
Notebook LM by Google – Free if you have a Google account.
Join the Conversation:
Come share your thoughts in our Facebook Group and tell us how you’re using AI-powered learning tools like Notebook LM.
Don’t forget to rate and review the podcast on your favorite platform—it helps others discover our show!
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

The post AI-Powered Learning with Notebook LM appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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14min
October 16, 202410 Good Ways for Students to Use AI
296: 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI

In this episode we look at 10 good ways for students to use AI. Last week, weshared 10 bad ways students might use AI. If you haven’t listened to the previous episode, check it out for full context, but you can also jump into this one first if you prefer.
Highlights from This Episode:
Reading Assistance
AI can help students by simplifying texts to a more appropriate reading level. For students struggling with older texts or complex academic papers, tools like Magic School AI and Class Companion can translate or rephrase documents to make them more understandable. This is especially useful in subjects like history or literature where archaic language can be a barrier to comprehension.
Editing and Feedback
Students can use AI as a grammar and style editor. Tools like Grammarly and Class Companion can help identify grammar errors, improve sentence structure, and even suggest ideas for expanding a piece of writing. AI should act as a helper, much like a parent or teacher offering feedback.
Idea Generation
AI can help students brainstorm ideas for projects or essays. For example, if a student needs to create a slideshow on Argentina, it can suggest topics that should be included.
Creating Images
Instead of using images with unclear copyright restrictions, students can create their own AI-generated images.
Studying for Tests
AI can help students prepare for tests by generating practice questions and answers. Students can use it to quiz themselves, which can be particularly helpful when parents or teachers aren’t available to help with revision.
Finding Resources
AI tools like Perplexity can suggest credible resources for research projects or papers.
Explaining Concepts
AI can simplify complex ideas or explain concepts in various subjects, such as math, science, or grammar. Students can ask it to break down difficult topics or provide real-life examples to enhance understanding.
Learning with Songs
AI can create custom songs to help students memorize information. AI-generated songs can be a fun and engaging way for students to remember facts, particularly in subjects where rote memorization is needed.
Coding and Debugging Help
AI tools can help identify bugs and correct syntax.
Task Breakdown
AI can help organize ideas, giving structure to an otherwise overwhelming assignment. It can even create a timeline of a task to help keep students on track..
For a detailed exploration of these strategies and more, listen to the full episode.
Resources Mentioned:
Class Companion
Magic School AI
Grammarly Go
Canva
Suno
Perplexity

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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19min
October 09, 202410 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI
295: 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI
We explore “10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI.” We’re focusing on how NOT to use AI tools. As AI becomes a major part of our children’s future, it’s crucial that we teach them the right ways to engage with it.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
No Personal Information
AI platforms may store data to improve models, so personal info shouldn’t be used. Students must avoid sharing sensitive details when using AI for tasks like essay feedback.
Don’t Use AI as a Search Engine
AI can give misleading or overly advanced answers. Students risk providing answers that don’t align with course materials, making it obvious when they cheat.
Avoid Brainstorming with AI
Using AI to generate ideas can lead to laziness. Encourage students to use their own creativity first, then consult AI for additional ideas if needed.
Don’t Write Essays or Short Answers Using AI
This is essentially cheating. Using AI to write homework defeats the purpose of learning and undermines integrity.
Be Wary of Asking AI to Explain History
AI-generated answers may come with biases or inaccuracies, so it’s better to consult multiple primary sources to form a balanced understanding.
Don’t Use AI as an ‘Online Friend’
With AI bots integrated into platforms like Snapchat, it’s easy for students to rely on them for companionship. But real friendships with real people are essential.
Don’t Seek Advice from AI
For life’s challenges, students should turn to trusted adults, not AI. Encourage open communication with family or counselors instead.
Avoid Using AI for Problem-Solving Right Away
Encourage students to try solving problems themselves first, then turn to AI as a last resort. Developing critical thinking is important.
Don’t Over-Edit with AI
AI can help improve writing, but overuse can erase a student’s voice. Teach students to keep their work authentic, even with a few imperfections.
Don’t Use AI for Creative Projects
Relying on AI for creative tasks diminishes human creativity. Students should cultivate their own ideas and skills, experiencing the joy of creating something from scratch.
Join the Conversation
If you have other ideas on how AI shouldn’t be used, join the discussion in our Homeschooling with Technology Facebook community. Let’s learn from each other and help our children navigate AI responsibly.
Tune in next week for 10 Good Ways for Students to Use AI!

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post 10 Bad Ways for Students to Use AI appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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16min
October 02, 2024Online Contests for Students
294: Online Contests for Students
In this episode, we explore a variety of online contests for students that homeschoolers can participate in. These contests provide great opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and even win prizes.
Contests Mentioned in This Episode:
PicoCTF
A cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) contest for ages 13 and up. Students work individually and in teams to solve challenges and develop critical thinking skills. Free training materials and practice challenges are available on the website.
Exploravision
A research-based contest where students, mentored by professionals, investigate a real-world problem. Available for high school and possibly younger students.
EngineerGirl Writing Contest
A writing contest focusing on engineering topics. Open to 3rd-12th graders, divided into different grade levels. The contest includes both boys and girls despite its name.
The Stock Market Game
A team-based game where students invest virtual money in the stock market. Open to students nationwide, it also includes an essay contest, InvestWrite, where students can win money and recognition.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Contests
Patriot’s Pen: An essay contest for middle school students.
Voice of Democracy: A speech contest for high school students. Students record and submit their speeches, and winners can advance to regional and national levels.
Scholastic Art & Writing Contest
This well-known contest includes categories like art, writing, and even programming. Winners can earn recognition like the Golden Key Award, which looks great on college applications.
Jane Austen Essay Contest
An essay contest for fans of Jane Austen, with cash prizes for winners. Essays from previous winners are available for review on the website.
Classics and Mythology Contests
Offered by etclassics.org, these online contests focus on Latin, Greek, and mythology for different age groups and ability levels.
15-Second Vocabulary Contest
A creative challenge hosted by the New York Times, where students create 15-second videos defining vocabulary words.
Bonus Resource: Showsponsor Fundafunda has compiled a comprehensive guide with over 30 contest opportunities for homeschoolers. You can find the Homeschool-friendly Contests pdf on the FundaFunda Academy website for just $2.99. It includes a description of each contest, grade levels, and whether they are free or require a fee.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode

The post Online Contests for Students appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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14min
September 25, 2024 Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed
293: Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed
In this episode,guest Melissa Muir, shares how she uses Nearpod, an incredible tool that can transform your homeschooling experience. Melissa has been homeschooling her children in Ecuador for 13 years. She works with online teachers and homeschoolers, providing resources, self-paced classes, and tech-based tools to make learning more fun and effective.
What is Nearpod?
Nearpod is a platform offering a wide range of pre-made lessons across subjects. It’s free to start and offers interactive content such as:
– PDFs and videos (without YouTube distractions)
– Virtual Reality (VR) field trips
– Drag-and-drop activities
– Gamified quizzes
– PHET simulations and 3D models
How to Use Nearpod in Homeschooling
Melissa explains how homeschoolers can use Nearpod for specific topics or subjects that need extra resources. From history lessons to foreign languages, Nearpod provides engaging, supplemental learning activities.
Plans and Costs
Nearpod offers a free plan (Silver), which gives access to plenty of content but limited storage. Paid plans like Gold ($159/year) offer additional storage and logins. Melissa share a code for 3 months of Gold free
Why Use Nearpod?
– Access to curriculum you may not own or feel equipped to teach
– Student-led, interest-based learning
– Easy to search by grade level and topic for ready-to-use lessons
Resources and Links
– Nearpod
– 3 months of Nearpod Gold free:
Where to find Melissa
Melissa Is Teaching on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissaisteaching
More from Melissa Is Teaching: https://melissaisteaching.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissaisteaching
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Nearpod: The Homeschool Resource You Never Knew You Needed appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
...more
18min
September 18, 2024Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce
292: Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce
In this episode, we explore the potential of remote tech careers in Salesforce for homeschool parents and teens. Our guest, Bradley Rice, shares insights on why Salesforce could be a great fit for the homeschooling community.
Key Points
Introduction to Salesforce
What is Salesforce?
How businesses use Salesforce
Career Opportunities in Salesforce
Types of roles available
Salary expectations and growth potential
Why Salesforce is Suitable for Homeschoolers
Flexibility and work-life balance
Remote work opportunities
Skills development for teens
Getting Started with Salesforce
No prior experience necessary
Basic tech skills required
Learning resources (Trailhead, YouTube, Udemy)
Job Market and Demand
Current state of Salesforce job market
Realistic expectations for job hunting
Impact of AI on Salesforce Careers
Current and potential future impacts
Opportunities in AI-related roles
Resources Mentioned
Trailhead: Free Salesforce training platform
TalentStacker: Free resources for homeschoolers wanting to get started with Salesforce
Salesforce for Everyone Podcast (Episodes 1-8)
FundaFunda Academy’s Computer Applications Class
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.
Join our Facebook Group, especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology into your homeschool.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and give a rating and maybe even a review! Subscribing will help you make sure you never miss an episode
The post Why Homeschool Parents and Teens Should Consider Remote Tech Careers in Salesforce appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
...more
32min

FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 322 episodes available.

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