Homeschooling with Technology

By Meryl van der Merwe

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 ... more

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FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 408 episodes available.

Homeschooling with Technology episodes:

March 19, 2025Using Khan Academy in your Homeschool
317: Using Khan Academy in your Homeschool
In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we explore the many ways homeschoolers can use Khan Academy. While many may be familiar with Khan Academy for math practice, there are many other subjects and tools available that can supplement and enrich a homeschool curriculum.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Navigating Khan Academy: If you land on the AI-powered K-Migo tools, click on Explore at the top to access the traditional Khan Academy resources.
Khan Academy Kids App: Designed for ages 2-8, this free educational app is available on Apple, Android, and Amazon devices.
Using Khan Academy for Math: A great resource for extra math practice, including grade-based courses and “Get Ready” courses for summer review before advancing to new levels.
Beyond Math – Other Subjects Available:
Test Prep: Free SAT prep (math and full digital SAT practice).
Science & Economics: Middle school and high school levels, including AP courses.
Computing: Courses like “Computers and the Internet” and AP-level computer science.
Reading & Language Arts: Grammar and reading comprehension.
Life Skills: Career planning and personal finance.
Arts & Humanities: U.S. history, world history, art history, and partner courses with organizations like NASA and Nobel Labs.
How Homeschoolers Can Use Khan Academy Effectively:
Creating a Class Account: Parents can set up an account and assign lessons to their children, tracking progress and mastery points.
Assigning Specific Lessons: Focus on particular areas of need, such as fractions or ecology, by selecting targeted lessons.
Interactive Learning: Many courses now include quizzes, mastery assessments, and end-of-module tests.
Monitoring Student Progress: View student reports to ensure completion and understanding.
Using Khan Academy as a Supplement: While full courses are available, it’s best used alongside other resources, such as books, projects, and hands-on activities.
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 Using Khan Academy in your Homeschool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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12min
March 12, 2025Gamify History with Mission US Games
316: Gamify History with Mission US Games

In this episode, we’re diving into how you can gamify history with Mission US games. This immersive, interactive resource has been a favorite of mine for years, and I’m excited to revisit it, especially since they’ve updated their offerings.
What is Mission US?
Mission US is a free, interactive educational game platform aimed at middle schoolers, although it’s versatile enough to be used with high school students as well. It allows students to step into the shoes of historical characters and experience key moments in U.S. history.
Website: missionus.org/play
Available Missions
Mission US currently offers six operational missions:
For Crown or Colony? (1770 – American Revolution)
A Cheyenne Odyssey (1866 – Westward Expansion)
City of Immigrants (1907 – Immigrant Experience)
Up from the Dust (1929 – Great Depression)
Prisoner in My Homeland (1941 – World War II)
No Turning Back (1960 – Civil Rights Movement)
Note: The Antebellum Era mission is currently under redevelopment.
Why Use Mission US in Your Homeschool?
Immersive Learning: Students play as historical characters, making decisions that shape their journey and outcomes.
Engaging Content: Each mission is historically accurate and offers a break from traditional learning methods.
Interactive Features: Includes character profiles, trailers, and decision trackers to keep students engaged.
Adaptable: While aimed at middle school, the content is rich enough for high school use.
Highlights of Mission US Features
Teacher Dashboard: Homeschool parents can track progress, monitor completion, and review decision outcomes.
Variety of Formats: Missions are available as apps, downloadable programs, or online games.
Supplemental Resources: Includes decision trackers, writing activities, reflection prompts, and additional materials like timelines and background information.
Example: “For Crown or Colony?”
In this mission, students step into the role of Nat Wheeler, a fictional character navigating life in 1770 Boston. Here’s what to expect:
Meet Historical Figures: Interact with characters like Paul Revere, Phyllis Wheatley, and Benjamin Edes.
Decision-Making: Choices impact the story’s progression and outcomes.
Reflection Opportunities: Writing prompts and discussions deepen understanding.
Additional Activities: Explore timelines, character profiles, and external resources like Colonial Williamsburg.
Tips for Using Mission US in Your Homeschool
Integrate Writing: Use decision trackers and reflections as writing assignments.
Encourage Collaboration: Discuss choices and outcomes as a family
Extend Learning: Assign projects like digital posters, videos, or infographics based on the missions.
Monitor Progress: Use the teacher dashboard to ensure your child is fully engaging with the material.
Links Mentioned:
Mission US Website
FundaFunda’s online high school US History class

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 Gamify History with Mission US Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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17min
March 05, 2025Google Arts and Culture Games
315: Google Arts and Culture Games
In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, we dive into the interactive games and activities available through Google Arts & Culture.
Resources Mentioned:
Google Arts & Culture – Play Section

Key Highlights:
Introduction to Google Arts & Culture Games:
Overview of the “Play” section on the platform.
How these games can supplement art and cultural education for homeschoolers.
Game Reviews and Ideas for Homeschoolers:
Mixtape: Combine famous artworks with music and use it to spark discussions about art and emotions.
Art Zoom Out: Predict what surrounds a partial artwork and engage in imaginative storytelling.
Talking Towns: Explore cultural landmarks with AI commentary.
Doodle Guide: Hone drawing skills with interactive feedback.
Mice in the Museum: A charming introduction to art for younger learners with two mice discussing paintings.
Musical Activities:
Musical Canvas: Draw and create music simultaneously.
Blob Opera & Kandinsky Experiment: Engage with sound and color through interactive tools.
Puzzle Games:
Puzzle Party: Create jigsaw puzzles from famous artworks and collaborate remotely.
Undough: A playful spin on Hangman, uncovering world monuments.
Odd One Out: Identify AI-generated art among real pieces.
Cultural Crosswords & Visual Crosswords: Challenge your knowledge of arts and culture.
Coloring Pages & Trivia Fun:
Coloring activities featuring themes like NASA, pandas, and Christmas.
Trivia games like “Guess the Line,” where AI guesses your drawings.
How to Use These Games in Homeschooling:
Foster creativity and critical thinking.
Incorporate games into art, music, and culture lessons.
Use them for family collaboration and fun learning moments.
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 Google Arts and Culture Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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16min
February 26, 2025Google Arts and Culture
314: Google Arts and Culture
Google Arts and Culture is a resource I’ve mentioned before, but in this episode we dive into the vast offerings on the site’s homepage. Next week, I’ll explore the games and interactive experiences under the “Play” section.
Whether you’re looking for a free art curriculum, a quick educational activity, or a resource to supplement your homeschooling curriculum, Google Arts and Culture is a treasure trove for learners of all ages.
What is Google Arts and Culture?
Google Arts and Culture is a free platform showcasing art, culture, history, and more through online exhibits, interactive tools, and curated content. You can access it at artsandculture.google.com.
Highlights from the Homepage the day I recorded
Turn Your Life into Art:
Explore the app version of Google Arts and Culture.
You can experiment with turning photos into artistic creations.
Assign your high schoolers to explore the app and report their findings!
Online Exhibits:
Examples include Switzerland’s majestic mountains, Australia’s ocean nomads, and more.
Each exhibit combines images, videos, and text, offering an immersive experience.
Great for geography, history, or cultural studies.
Celebrate Events and Topics:
The homepage features seasonal and topical exhibits, like Black History Month.
Dive into fascinating themes like “10 Animals with Superpowers” or “Historic Housing in LA.”
Some Games are highlighted
Da Vinci Stickies: Combine sketches like wings and lungs to create AI-powered inventions.
Explore Da Vinci’s codices and learn more about his creative genius.
Other Content:
Browse old newspapers, incredible libraries, and art movements.
Engage younger learners with color-based art exploration activities.
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 Google Arts and Culture appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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18min
February 19, 20253D Modeling with Blender: A Teen’s Perspective
313: 3D Modeling with Blender: A Teen’s Perspective

In this episode, Meryl is joined by teen guest Matthew Jurison, who shares his experiences using Blender, a free 3D modeling and visual effects software. Matthew, a self-taught Blender enthusiast with years of experience, discusses how he got started, the skills he’s developed, and why Blender is an excellent tool for creative teens. He also highlights some of his favorite projects and the challenges he’s faced while learning and creating with Blender
Questions Matthew answers about 3D modeling with Blender:
What is Blender, what is it used for, and how much does it cost?
How did you get started with Blender, and what inspired you to learn it?
How did you teach yourself Blender?
Is Blender beginner-friendly, or do you need prior skills?
What kinds of projects have you created using Blender?
How do you export Blender projects for use in game development or filmmaking?
What is the coolest project you’ve ever made with Blender?
What skills can students develop by using Blender, and how do these skills benefit other areas of life or academics?
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced while using Blender, and how did you overcome them?
Resources Mentioned:
Blender – Free 3D modeling and visual effects software.
YouTube tutorials – Especially this Beginner Blender Tutorial on Youtube
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 3D Modeling with Blender: A Teen’s Perspective appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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13min
February 12, 2025Using AI as a Study Tool
312: Using AI as a Study Tool
In this episode, we look at various AI resources and how they can be effective study tools. Please note there are previous podcast episode that go into more detail about all of these tools.
Featured AI Tools & Applications:
ChatGPT:
Creating custom practice questions at different difficulty levels
Getting detailed feedback on answers
Explaining complex concepts in simpler terms
NotebookLM:
Summarizing and organizing large amounts of study material
Creating custom study questions from uploaded content
Generating different types of test questions (multiple choice, true/false, case studies)
Works with digital documents and uploaded handwritten notes
Magic School AI:
Creating customized learning environments with specific tools
Allows teacher (parent) to monitor student progress
No login is required for students to access classrooms
Resource Mentioned:
Video: “Oxford researchers discovered how to use AI to learn like a genius“
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 Using AI as a Study Tool appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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16min
February 05, 20253 Online Cybersecurity Games
311: 3 Online Cybersecurity Games
These online cybersecurity games are a great way to teach students about how to keep safe online – and what exactly is involved in careers in this field.
Games Reviewed:
Gandalf
Players try to trick Gandalf into revealing passwords across multiple levels
Involves critical thinking and AI prompting skills
Two versions available:
Original Gandalf game (8 levels)
New version: “Gandalf and Friends” (5 levels)
Cyber Mission
Developed by US Military
Features four progressive games:
Protect
Defend
Analyze
Strike
Three difficulty levels per game (Bronze, Silver, Gold)
Includes educational resources and cybersecurity career information
PBS Nova Labs Cybersecurity Game
Designed for grades 6-12
Approximately 75 minutes of gameplay
Features four main components:
Coding challenges
Password cracking challenges
Social engineering scenarios
Network attack defense
Combines coding practice with cybersecurity concepts
Special Offer:
$20 discount code – CYBER20 (ends 31 March 2025) on FundaFunda’s Computer Science class
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 3 Online Cybersecurity Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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0min
January 29, 2025New Online Geography Games
310: New Online Geography Games
This episode features 7 new online geography games – new to me at least – but some are very new and use AI technology to increase the fun. All are free and can be played with no sign in required. Many allow you to create private rooms to play in.
Games Featured in This Episode
GeoScents: Choose categories like World, Europe, Africa etc. Select where the given place is on a world map. Options include creating private rooms for group play.
Statdle Guess the country based on 4 categories eg alphabetical order, latitude. Narrow down options as you go, and use hints if you get stuck.
GeoQuest: Good for younger children. Identify countries on a zoomable map with helpful directional hints. Practice mode and daily challenges available.
GuessWhereYouAre.com: A Google Street View game that drops you into random locations.. Use clues from the environment to figure out where you are.
Nightmare on View Street: A creative twist on geography that incorporates AI-generated ghosts and monsters against a background of a famous place that you must guess.
Touring Test: A geography guessing game based on AI-generated pictures and descriptions.
Time Portal: Travel back in time to guess the location and year of historical events. AI-generated videos.
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 New Online Geography Games appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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18min
January 22, 2025Drawing Made Easy with Free Online Tools
309: 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 Drawing Made Easy with Free Online Tools appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
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12min
January 15, 2025Navigating Digital Risks with Kid Safe GPT
308: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.
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13min

FAQs about Homeschooling with Technology:

How many episodes does Homeschooling with Technology have?

The podcast currently has 408 episodes available.