Uncover the magic and transformative power of reading aloud to children and teenagers in this enriching episode. What if a simple story could not only bolster your child's vocabulary but also create a lasting emotional connection? Join us as we take a journey through personal experiences, highlighting the time we spend reading to our kids. Hear about Janae's struggle and ultimate triumph with the classic novel 'Where the Red Fern Grows', and experience the captivating power of stories that cause time to slip away unnoticed.

This episode takes a dive into Jim Trelease's 'Read Aloud Handbook', exploring the profound impact of reading aloud on literacy rates. Unearth the ways reading aloud can improve comprehension, foster a larger vocabulary, and provide a meaningful context for words. We also delve into how this practice can aid in developing mastery and grammatical understanding. Experience the delight of creating lasting memories and emotional bonds through reading aloud. 

Lastly, prepare to be touched by a personal story of gifting quality time through a basket of books, hot cocoa, and marshmallows. Discover how this simple gift became a cherished memory for a family, underlining the potent influence of reading aloud. We also stress the importance of quality literature in character development and broadening our children's horizons. Tune in to learn how to empower your children and create beautiful memories through the simple act of reading aloud. This episode is a treasure trove of personal anecdotes, valuable insights, and practical tips that will transform reading aloud into a cherished part of your family's life.

Janae's Picks for Parents to Learn More:

The Read Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease

The Read Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie

The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud by Meghan Cox Gurdon

The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way by Amanda Ripley

A Few of the Daniels Family's Favorite Chapter Books for Family Read Aloud:

Where The Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

The Great Brain by By John D. Fitzgerald

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson

* Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.

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As new homeschooling parents, you're about to navigate a path that is new and perhaps a little daunting. But fear not. We promise you a journey of discovery where you'll learn the importance of understanding education philosophies, the differences between curriculum and pedagogy, and the beauty of unschooling, all while keeping your family's worldview at the center of your child’s education.

The episode unfolds with a personal touch in sharing my own family's homeschool journey, laying the groundwork for the importance of slowing down to understand your child's needs. We'll journey through public school pedagogy, secular, and religious curriculums, highlighting the importance of aligning your chosen curriculum with your family's worldview. We'll chat about the significance of de-schooling, and how it's okay to leverage free resources online while you're finding the right curriculum for your family.

Brace yourselves for an educational roller coaster as we delve into diverse homeschooling methods and resources, from the age-old Classical Method to modern platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, and Wondrium. We'll take you through an exploration of various homeschooling philosophies including Montessori, Travel schooling, Forest schooling, Charlotte Mason, and many others. By the end of the episode, you’ll be armed with an array of educational perspectives paving the way to craft an enriching and empowering learning journey for your child. Come along, let's transform your homeschooling journey together.

A Few Books to Learn More About Various Educational Philosophies:

The Classical Education:

The Well-Trained Mind: A Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise

Charlotte Mason:

A Charlotte Mason Companion: Personal Reflections on the Gentle Art of Learning by Karen Andreola

Home Education (The Home Education Series) by Charlotte Mason

Philosophy of Education (The Home Education Series) by Charlotte Mason

Parents and Children (The Home Education Series) by Charlotte Mason

For the Children's Sake: Foundations of Education for Home and School by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay

Montessori Method:

The Absorbent Mind: A Classic in Education and Child Development for Educators and Parents by Maria Montessori

Montessori: A Modern Approach: The Classic Introduction to Montessori for Parents and Teachers by Paula Polk Lillard, Foreward by Maria Montessori

Waldorf Education:

Understanding Waldorf Education: Teaching from the Inside Out by Jack Petrash

Waldorf Education: A Family Guide by Multiple Authors

A Thomas Jefferson Education (TJed)/Leadership Education:

A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the Twenty-First Century by Oliver DeMille

Unschooling:

Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom by Kerry McDonald

Free to Learn by Peter Gray

How Children Learn by John Holt

How Children Fail by John Holt

Foundation for American Christian Education:

Foundation for American Christian Education Website

* Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.

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Are you ready to redefine the traditional educational experience and create a tailor-made learning environment for your children? This is the challenge we embrace in this episode, drawing inspiration from the wisdom of corporate executive coach Cameron Harold and the philosophy of Stephen Covey. We explored the powerful concept of starting with the end goal in mind to craft an educational journey that marries your family values, your children's unique learning styles, and their innate passions.

We embark on a historical journey, retracing the self-directed educational paths of figures like Benjamin Franklin, and drawing insights for our homeschooling journey. It is not just about choosing the right curriculum. The focus is on fostering a learning ambiance that encourages our children to delve into what they are deeply passionate about. We celebrate the beauty of discovering and nurturing our children's unique learning styles, respecting and acknowledging the diversity in the ways our little ones grasp information.

In the final part of our discussion, we address the real-life dynamics of homeschooling and the effective ways to implement this personalized approach to education. We emphasize the importance of mental breaks, meeting children where they are, and achieving a balance between structured and unstructured learning. Let's remember, homeschooling is more than an alternative form of education; it's a beautiful journey of passion, discovery, and personalized learning. So, join us, and let's craft an inspiring vision for our children's education together.

Great TED talk as you prepare your family vision:

"Your Vision Statement Sucks!" TEDx by Cameron Herold

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Have you ever encountered that overwhelming feeling of chaos; both in your physical surroundings and your mental space? As a parent, I've found myself in this whirlpool of clutter more times than I care to admit. This episode is a reflection on my personal journey of embracing mental minimalism, as well as the powerful change this shift has brought to my life and that of my children. We unravel the power of 'white space', a tool I've found not only declutters our lives but also paves the way for a more peaceful, purposeful, and fulfilled existence.

 Our conversation takes us to the heart of creating 'white space', highlighting the significant role it can play in our lives and those of our children. We navigate the insights of Greg McKeown's "Essentialism", a guide that has been instrumental in fostering clarity and aligning our lives with our true values. And, taking a leaf from the Navy Seals, we explore the philosophy of 'slow is smooth, smooth is fast', a mantra that encourages deliberate and careful decision-making.

 In the final part of our discussion, we shift our focus to play, emphasizing the importance of informal play. Drawing on the research of Dr. Peter Gray, we reiterate the life-long value of play and natural learning. We dissect the pressures of formal schooling and structured activities, advocating for a simpler, more meaningful approach to play and learning. This episode is a sincere invitation to all parents to simplify, to create more 'white space', and to allow our children the freedom to explore and play, creating the mental white space they need for a healthier and more joyous life. Join us on this journey toward a more meaningful way of living and learning.

Check out the books referenced in today's show:

"Essentialism" by Greg McKeown

"Free to Learn" by Peter Gray

Other Resources to Explore: 

"The Decline of Play" TEDx by Peter Gray

"How Our Schools Thwart Passions" TEDx by Peter Gray

A Couple Extra Links for Personal Reminders as you Homeschool--grab a couple tissues--different Songs with the same name:

"Slow Down" by Nichole Nordeman

"Slow Down" feat. Sissel (with Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square)

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*Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.

Ready to unravel the maze of where to find homeschooling laws and set the stage for your child's college prep? Your journey starts here, as we unpack everything from where to find state expectations to national requirements and tools to track your child's learning progression. 

We delve into attendance records, transcripts, and all the ins and outs of national testing, and evaluations, equipping you with the know-how to meet and exceed state regulations. 

We also challenge conventional education norms, discussing how homeschooling can be more efficient than public schooling, and your child's unique learning speed and discover how to count everyday activities as learning. From homeschooling regulations to creating transcripts and preparing your child for college, this episode is your roadmap to a successful homeschooling journey.

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Are you afraid to homeschool because you're not a teacher? This episode is for you!

You're not alone. Many mothers feel this way, but there's no need to be afraid. You are more than qualified to homeschool your children. 

In this podcast, Janae Daniels, a former middle school teacher turned homeschool mom discusses the history of education in the United States and how it has shaped our current school system. She also shares her own experiences homeschooling her children, and how she overcame her fears.

In this episode, we'll explore:

• The origins of public schooling in the United States
• The evolution of educational conventions
• The key players and events that have influenced the current education system
• A critical analysis of the existing school system and its power dynamics
• The writings of John Taylor Gatto, a renowned educator, and critic of the school system
• The realities of classroom expectations placed on students and teachers alike
• Common fears of not being a certified teacher qualified to teach and concerns about children's responsiveness to parental instruction
• Insights and tips on how to teach your children effectively and empower them in their learning journey

Janae's message to mothers is this: you are the best teacher for your children. You know them better than anyone else, and you have the power to give them the education they deserve.

If you are a mother who is considering homeschooling your children, I encourage you to listen to this podcast episode. Janae Daniels is empowering and inspiring, and it will help you to overcome your fears.

Check out a few of Janae's favorite books:

Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto

Weapons of Mass Instruction by John Taylor Gatto

The Underground History of American Education, Volume 1: An Intimate Investigation Into the Prison of Modern Schooling

The New England Primer of 1777--Edited and Expanded

*Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.

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If you're considering homeschooling or you're already a homeschooling family, one recurring worry you might have is that your kids may become "weird" due to limited exposure to traditional school environments. 

As homeschooling parents, we often encounter questions and concerns about our children's socialization. In today's episode, Janae takes listeners through the journey of socializing your kids and finding your tribe while also exploring the concept of peer orientation. 

In a society where peer relationships often define a child's socialization, homeschooling offers an opportunity to challenge this norm. By emphasizing the importance of parental involvement and meaningful connections, we can provide a more holistic approach to socialization. As homeschooling parents, we naturally feel concerned about our children's socialization. 

However, by embracing diverse social opportunities, supporting their interests, and encouraging our children to explore their passions and engage in activities they love, we open the doors to meeting others with similar hobbies and aspirations. 

Janae's Book Recommendations:

Hold Onto Your Kids

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You're all set to begin your homeschool journey, but before investing in curriculums and diving headfirst with resources, you will want to start deschooling. 

In today's episode, Janae dives deeper into the process of deschooling, deprogramming, and detoxifying your family from the school system. Deschooling allows you and your children to break free from the mindset ingrained by the traditional schooling system.

By starting with deschooling, you lay a foundation for a homeschooling experience that is aligned with your family's values, promotes lifelong learning, and empowers your children to become self-directed, confident learners. It can feel overwhelming, but Janae gives listeners encouragement, experience, and motivation to start the process. 

Although deschooling presents challenges and triggers emotions, it also opens doors to a more personalized and enjoyable educational experience for both parents and children. So, take the leap, embrace the process of deprogramming and deschooling, and witness the transformative power it can have on your homeschooling journey.

Do Schools Kill Creativity Ted Talk

Check out two of Janae’s Favorite Books:

* Please note that some of the links included in this article are Amazon affiliate links.

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Whether you find yourself ready to embark on your homeschool journey, seeking answers to questions, or just beginning to dip your toes into the homeschooling possibilities, know that you have entered into a community eager to support and empower each of you as you navigate this remarkable journey of learning outside the traditional classroom. 

As a former middle school teacher who unexpectedly became a homeschooling mom, this path was never on Janae's radar. Homeschooling seemed like a foreign concept, distant and unfamiliar. However, as she delved deeper into the reasons why people choose this path, she began to understand the allure. 

Janae gives listeners insight into the "whys" behind their decision, understand the "whats" that make homeschooling a unique and empowering choice, and gain invaluable insights into the "hows" of getting started. 

Homeschooling is a commitment to offering our children something more, something better than what the system can provide. It is a journey of growth, self-discovery, and shared experiences. So, if you are contemplating the transition from school to homeschool, know you have every right to ask questions and seek a better future for your children.

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Learn more about School to Homeschool