Today we have the pleasure of hosting Amy Sloan. Amy is a second-generation homeschooler, an accomplished writer at Humility and Doxology, and the host of the Homeschool Conversations podcast. In this episode, we dive into the theme of prioritization, exploring how Amy balances homeschooling five children, navigating unexpected challenges like her son’s cancer diagnosis, and maintaining a rich educational environment. From the heartwarming traditions of a "morning basket" routine to adapting homeschool plans during crises, Amy shares invaluable insights that will resonate with homeschooling families. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a veteran, this episode promises to be both inspiring and practically useful. Join us as we explore the intricacies of prioritizing what truly matters in education and family life.

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In this episode you'll hear about:

• Overview of the monthly theme: prioritization
• Amy Sloan's Background as a Second generation homeschooler
• Difference between her homeschooling and her upbringing
• Influence of Amy’s and her husband's own homeschooling experiences
• Decisions and excitement about homeschooling
• Initial setup and changes over time
• Early challenges and learning curve
• Homeschool Prioritization
• Initial priorities and reality clash
• Introduction of the morning time concept
• Reordering homeschool day priorities
• Eliminating traditional structure constraints
• Coping with Unexpected Challenges
• Reevaluating homeschool priorities after a child's cancer diagnosis
• Minimal viable homeschool day
• Importance of morning time, reading, and math
• Decision-making process during crisis
• Maintaining Family and Marital Relationships
• Support from the community and friends
• Ensuring one-on-one time with children
• Different activities to connect
• Keeping your marriage strong during extended hospitalizations
• Importance of accepting help
• Homeschool Philosophy and Adaptation
• Consistency in the classical education approach
• Truth and humility in learning
• Loving one’s neighbor and a wide range of voices
• Changes in practice but not in core philosophy
• Simplification of reading lists and extra activities
• Learning from various homeschooling styles
• Importance of resting in the gospel
• Memory work and literature passion
• Providing resources and weekly poems
• Encouraging the study of Shakespeare

Links and Resources From Today's Show

• Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?
• "What is Executive Functioning?" Course from Homeschool OT
• 5 Tips for Starting Morning Time
• Homeschool Loop Schedule
• Episode 11- Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling
• Episode 12- Executive Functioning in Homeschooling: A Teenager's Experience with Organization and Planning
• Episode 28- Risky Play: Understanding the Benefits and Strategies for Safe Child Development
• Episode 32- Homeschooling During Crisis: Finding Balance with Self-Care and Family Support
• More from Amy at her blog: Humility and Doxology Blog
• Free Homeschool Planning Guide from Amy Sloan