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Homeschooling with Technology episodes
- Teach Drawing the Easy Way With Free Online Tools309: Drawing Made Easy with Free Online Tools
In this episode, we’re exploring free online tools to make drawing fun and accessible for homeschoolers of all ages. Whether your child is a budding artist or you’re just looking for a creative activity to incorporate into your homeschool routine, these four resources offer a variety of ways to engage with art.
1. Art for Kids Hub (YouTube Channel)- A family-friendly YouTube channel featuring step-by-step drawing tutorials.
- The host, a dad, teaches alongside his children, showing that kids can create their own unique versions.
- Topics range from famous figures (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.) to fun subjects like Spider-Man, snowflakes, and penguins.
- Most tutorials are under 10 minutes and can be embedded into tools like Google Slides or Padlet for easy access.
2. Kleki- A straightforward digital drawing tool with no login required.
- Ideal for beginners with simple tools like layers, cropping, and flipping, but also offers more advanced options as skills improve.
- Drawings can be downloaded or shared, making it versatile for creative projects.
3. AutoDraw- Combines traditional digital drawing tools with AI-powered assistance.
- The “magic pencil” helps turn rough sketches into polished drawings by guessing what you’re drawing.
- Great for those who want guidance while still adding their personal touch.
- Tutorials are available for added support.
4. Quick Draw (by Google)- A fun Pictionary-style game where AI guesses what you’re drawing within 20 seconds.
- Offers a humorous and interactive way to practice drawing and develop quick-thinking skills.
- Great for all ages and even doubles as a vocabulary booster for younger children.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies. Sign up for their newsletter to get monthly AI tips and learn about cool online resources. Follow their Instagram for weekly Tuesday Tech Tips.
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 Teach Drawing the Easy Way With Free Online Tools appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
12 min - Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT308:Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT
Kid Safe GPT is a custom GPT that helps parents navigate the risks in online games and apps and social media sites
Key Highlights:
- Common Sense Media: This website has a page about online games and includes info on risks. The list of games it covers is fairly limited though.
- Introduction to Kid Safe GPT:
- Developed by Paul Roetzer, CEO of SmarterX.ai, as his response to a teen’s suicide after interactions with character.ai
- A free tool integrated with ChatGPT that helps parents identify and mitigate risks associated with games, apps, and social media platforms.
- Includes areas on understanding risks, talking to kids, and creating safety guidelines.
- Sample prompts for popular platforms like Minecraft, Roblox, and Snapchat.
- Minecraft Example:
- Risks Identified: Stranger interactions, in-game purchases, inappropriate mods, excessive screen time, and privacy concerns.
- Proactive Strategies: Private servers, single-player mode, parental controls, approved mods, and time limits.
- Conversation Starters: How to approach your child about safety and understand their experiences.
- Why Use Kid Safe GPT:
- Offers insights into risks parents might overlook.
- Helps guide conversations about digital safety.
- Supports creating safety agreements with children for responsible usage.
Action Steps for Parents:
- Create a free ChatGPT account if you don’t already have one.
- Explore KidSafe GPT at https://smarterx.ai/kid-safe-gpt
- Use sample prompts to evaluate apps and games your kids use.
- Implement recommended safety measures and have ongoing conversations with your children.
Recommended Resource:
- The AI Show: Learn more about the latest in AI technology. (on all podcast players and Youtube)
Here is the segment discussing Kid Safe GPT
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies. Sign up for their newsletter to get monthly AI tips and learn about cool online resources. Follow their Instagram for weekly Tuesday Tech Tips.
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 Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
13 min - Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers307: Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers
Today’s episode is all about Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers.
If you’re new to AI tools like ChatGPT, I recommend starting with Episode 306: Starting Out with AI in Your Homeschool, where I introduce the basics.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- What is prompting?
Prompting is the process of giving AI tools like ChatGPT directions in plain English to help you achieve specific tasks.- A fun way to practice prompting:
Check out Google Labs’ game “Say What You See” to improve descriptive skills and practice crafting precise prompts. It’s a great activity for both kids and parents.- Getting started with ChatGPT:
- ChatGPT is free and easy to use.
- Sign up in under 30 seconds and start exploring its capabilities for homeschooling.
- Download my free PDF of 20 prompts to inspire your first AI interactions. (Sign up for FundaFunda Academy’s monthly newsletter to access this resource.)
- Practical example:
I demonstrate how to create a game-based activity for middle schoolers to learn punctuation rules.- Start with a basic prompt and refine it as needed.
- Customize themes to match your child’s interests, like pirates, dinosaurs, or pop culture references.
Key Takeaways:- Think of AI as a junior intern in your homeschool. It will improve as you give it clearer instructions.
- Experiment with multiple tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity to find what works best for you.
- Keep prompting: The more context and specificity you provide, the better results you’ll get.
Please complete this survey so I can help you integrate AI and other tech in your homeschool- Listener Survey: Click here to fill it out.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies. Sign up for their newsletter to get monthly AI tips and learn about cool online resources. Follow their Instagram for weekly Tuesday Tech Tips.
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 Prompting 101: A Beginner’s Guide for Homeschoolers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
15 min - What is prompting?
- Getting started with AI in your homeschool306: Getting started with AI in your homeschool
Happy New Year! As we kick off 2025, it’s clear that AI is set to continue transforming our world—sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we’re diving into how you can begin integrating AI into your homeschool. Whether you’re completely new to AI or feeling a bit overwhelmed, this episode will give you practical steps to get started.
Key Takeaways:- Why You Should Embrace AI in Your Homeschool:
- Ease Your Workload: AI tools can simplify planning, grading, and research.
- Teach Responsible Use: Equip your kids with the skills to use AI ethically and effectively.
- Shape the Future: Understanding AI empowers you to influence how it impacts your family and society.
- Understanding AI:
- You’ve likely been using AI already—think Netflix recommendations, Facebook ads, Grammarly, and more.
- Recent advancements like ChatGPT and other generative AI tools have made AI more accessible and versatile.
- Generative AI creates new content, such as text, images, music, and videos, based on patterns it learns from data.
- How to Get Started:
- Learn First, Then Teach: Familiarize yourself with AI tools before introducing them to your children.
- Create a Plan: Dedicate 15 minutes a week (or even a month) to explore new tools.
- Use a Spreadsheet: Track tools, resources, and ideas for incorporating AI into your homeschool.
- Focus on Pain Points: Identify challenges in your homeschool routine (e.g., lesson planning, grading, or finding resources) and prioritize AI tools that can address those issues.
- Review Old Episodes: Revisit past episodes of this podcast for guidance on specific tools and strategies to get started with AI in homeschooling.
- Start Small: Begin with one tool or feature that aligns with your immediate needs or interests.
Please complete this survey so I can help you integrate AI and other tech in your homeschool- Listener Survey: Click here to fill it out.
Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies. Sign up for their newsletter to get monthly AI tips and learn about cool online resources. Follow their Instagram for weekly Tuesday Tech Tips.
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 Getting started with AI in your homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
23 min - Last-Minute Digital Gift Ideas for Kids & Teens305: Last Minute Digital Gift Ideas
Forgotten to get gifts for everyone? Or just run out of ideas? These unique digital gift ideas are ones homeschool families will love to give or receive! Here are the 12 ideas I mention in this episode.
- Online Escape Room Experiences
Interactive virtual escape rooms themed a the whole family can solve together. Editable gift vouchers make it easy to print off or email the gift.- Annual Subscription to a Streaming Service
Choose something unique like CuriosityStream (documentaries), BroadwayHD (theater), or MasterClass (learning from experts).- Online party games
Jackbox is the go-to for our family – be sure to check for age-appropriate ones.- Board Games Adapted for Online Play
Buy a Tabletopia – $80 for 6 months or Board Game Arena premium subscription for families to enjoy classic and modern board games virtually.- Scavenger Hunts
Scavengerhunt.com – Gift a year or just one hunt for 2 or 6 people. Can use in many cities all around the world- Audiobooks
Prepay for a subscription to Pinna (audiobooks and podcasts designed for kids) or an Audible Kids+ plan.- Online Gaming
Listen to last month’s episode – STEAM gift cards or Nintendo Online Subscripition- Online Cooking Classes
Live or recorded – YesChef- Digital Classes – Art, Graphic Design, Stop Motion, Music
Give them access to online art platforms like Skillshare, Procreate tutorials, or an Udemy course for digital drawing and painting. Show sponsor FundaFunda Academy offers some that are suitable as gifts- Virtual Coding Camps
Enroll them in platforms like CodeCombat, or FundaFunda Academy’s Scratch or Python classes for fun and engaging coding experiences.- Digital Tools Subscription
Gift access to tools like Canva Pro, Adobe Creative Cloud etc- Digital Comic Book Subscription (e.g., Marvel Unlimited, DC Universe Infinite):
Access to a vast library of comics for all ages. e.g., Marvel Unlimited, DC Universe InfiniteTake 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 Last-Minute Digital Gift Ideas for Kids & Teens appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
16 min - Online Escape Room Experiences
- AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep304: AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep
This episode covers AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep. Lots of ways to save time on tasks so you can spend time with family and friends.
1. Creating a Detailed Schedule- Demonstrated using ChatGPT
- Example prompt: Sharing entire holiday to-do list
- Benefits:
- Breaks down overwhelming tasks
- Creates day-by-day planning
- Can incorporate family member tasks
2. Gift Shopping and Ideas- Tips for effective prompts:
- Provide detailed personal preferences
- Be specific about constraints (budget, interests)
- Refine results with follow-up questions
3. Recipe and Leftover Management- Used AI to find recipes for leftover turkey
- Suggestion: Provide available ingredients for more personalized recipe recommendations
4. Party and Travel Planning- Game suggestions for various age groups
- Christmas party games for 6-75 year olds
- Car trip games for children 10-14
- Detailed game instructions available through AI
5. Educational Holiday Learning- Example: Exploring Christmas traditions in Iceland
- AI-suggested resources:
- Book recommendations
- YouTube video suggestions
- Interactive websites
- Cultural research projects
- Potential quiz and activity ideas
Practical AI Tool Tips- Use specific, detailed prompts
- Try multiple AI platforms
- Cross-reference suggestions
- Use for inspiration when stuck
Recommended Platforms- ChatGPT
- Claude
- Perplexity
- Gemini
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 AI Assisted Holiday Planning and Prep appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
18 min - 2024 Hour of Code Highlights303: 2024 Hour of Code Highlights
In this episode, we explore highlights from the 2024 Hour of Code, an initiative during Computer Science Education Week to introduce students (and even parents!) to coding in fun and engaging ways. Whether your children are new to coding or already experienced, there’s something here for everyone.
What is Hour of Code?- A global event during Computer Science Education Week (December 9-15, 2024).
- Aimed at introducing coding to beginners in an approachable way.
- Features free, interactive, and age-appropriate coding activities for everyone, from kindergarteners to adults.
- The theme for 2024 is “Make the Invisible Visible”, helping participants understand what happens behind the scenes in tech.
How to Participate- Visit hourofcode.com to access all activities (available year-round).
- Customize searches by grade level, device type, and topic.
- Try coding solo, as a family, or host an Hour of Code event with friends.
Why Join the Hour of Code?- Fun and easy way to explore computer science.
- Encourages creativity and logical thinking.
- Shows how programming powers everyday tech and games.
Highlights of 2024 Hour of Code Activities- Music Lab Jam Session
- Create music step-by-step by coding beats and melodies.
- Features sound blocks to remix tracks from artists like Shakira and Sabrina Carpenter.
- Introduces AI, allowing it to generate drum beats to complement your creations.
- Hello World (Transformer 1)
- Build and program Transformers-like robots to complete tasks.
- Includes built-in hints and feedback to guide participants.
- 3D Space Invaders Game
- Code and control elements of a video game, like spaceship movement and enemy actions.
- Perfect for visualizing how commands shape gameplay.
Bonus Opportunity: Christmas Coding ContestCheck out the Christmas Coding Contest sponsored by FundaFunda Academy!
- Designed for both beginners and experienced coders (using Scratch).
- Features interactive Christmas-themed scenes and tutorials.
- Entry fee: $5, with Amazon gift card prizes for top projects.
Sign up here
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 2024 Hour of Code Highlights appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
12 min - Affordable Gaming Gift Ideas for Kids & Teens302: Gaming Gift Ideas that Won’t Break the Bank
Heidi Lathram, is a homeschooler, homesteader, gamer, and educator with over 15 years of teaching experience and she share gaming gift ideas your children will love – and are affordable.
Below are links to various things Heidi mentioned in the podcast – you need to listen to the episode to understand the context and her specific recommendations.
Gaming Hardware Tips- Console Options:
- Nintendo Switch (2017, $300) Switch Lite (2019, $200) Switch OLED (2021, $350)
- Xbox Series X (1TB, $500), (1TB, digital, $450) (2TB, $600); Series S (512G, digital, $300)
- PlayStation 5 Pro (2024, $700) (controller, $200) ($1,000 bundle for all)
- Why Choose PC Gaming?
- More affordable options (starting at $400).
- Free multiplayer access and extensive game selection via platforms like Steam.
- Retro gaming, family accounts, and customizable parental controls available.
- Gaming PC ($400-2,000; newegg.com – look for their “Shell Shocker” deals – and other sites)
Game RecommendationsHeidi shares her favorite games, many created by indie developers:
Heidi’s favorite (budget) game picks:– Stardew Valley ($15)– Core Keeper ($15)– Palworld ($30)– Terraria ($10)– Starbound ($15)– Portal 1&2 ($15/bundle)– Steamworld Dig 1&2 ($26/bundle)– Pacman Championship Edition DX+ ($15)For more information about specific game titles, check out this article: https://www.indyed.com/articles/what-is-your-kid-really-learning-from-video-gamesAffordable gamer gifting:– Nintendo gamers– Switch accessories– Switch online membership– Nintendo store gift card from Walmart– Roblox– Robux– Fortnite– Vbucks– PC Gamers– Steam wishlist game purchases– isthereanydeal.com (historic and current comparative pricing on most titles)– Fanatical bundles– Check Steam sales– Gamer merch– Fangamer.com– teeturtle.com– Individual game developer websites– Headphone/mic combo– New Mouse, Keyboard, or game controller– Gaming chair– RGB LED lighting– Solid State Hard Drives– 3D printed game-related itemsHeidi’s ClassesYou can find Heidi’s classes at IndyEd.com here: https://www.indyed.com/secular-curriculum/heidi-lathrem-maOr you can check out my farm page (with self-paced and live class links) directly:https://harvestheritageacademy.podia.com/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 Affordable Gaming Gift Ideas for Kids & Teens appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
22 min - Tech Tool for Dyslexia: How Lexercise Can Help Homeschoolers301: 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.
28 min - Celebrating 300 Episodes: 15 Tools in 15 Minutes with Exclusive Bonuses300: 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.
26 min
About Homeschooling with Technology
From the publisher's feed
On Homeschooling with Technology, former programmer and veteran homeschool mom Meryl van der Merwe helps families use tech with confidence and wisdom — the best apps and online tools, AI for planning…
and learning (used safely), and practical tips that fit real homeschool days. No jargon, no overwhelm. Listen to an episode below and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify for a fresh tip each week.