The Coop Homeschool

We need less school, not more...a chapter titled perfectly by John Taylor Gatto. School is a synthetic community; it's merely a network that drains vitality from families and real communities. In this episode, we talk honestly about what the institutionalized school really is...according to an experienced and highly regarded school teacher. In our Coop Q & A, we answer the question: "How can I get my child more interested in history?" 

It takes more than our homeschooling values to develop deep relationships with other moms. We discuss the Relationship Bank Account, how to invest in friendships, and fun ways to bond through conversations. In our Coop Q & A, we answer a struggling mom's cry for help with her child who fights learning.

Let’s be honest - we all have done things in our parenting and homeschooling that we said we would NEVER do. Discussing our “nevers” is a fun and reflective way to humble ourselves into being people more willing to change and grow. We also discuss the pros and cons of downloadable vs. printed curriculum in our Coop Q & A.

Deschooling is the first homeschooling step you need to take after pulling your child out of traditional school. We share what that process is and give some tips to make the homeschooling transition easier for you. Also, we share the benefits of an online platform called Outschool during our Coop Q & A. Check out our show notes at thecoophomeschool.com.

Audio books are a door to organic parenting moments, allow your children to be enriched independently, and can give you a much needed break. Experienced homeschoolers love audio books. In our Coop Q & A, we answer the question, “I’ve decided to homeschool…now what?”

This is our fourth book club episode of the provocative and inspiring book by J.T. Gatto, Dumbing Us Down. We discuss the author’s life experiences and how they influenced him, as well as his early teaching experiences. In our Coop Q & A, we answer the question, “What are your favorite charities?”

It’s December! Let’s talk about our traditions during this season. Plan to be intentional about winter learning and form or continue traditions that can make a lifelong impact for all of you. We share some ideas and give our tips on how to ensure your favorite parts of the season actually happen. In our Coop Q & A, we answer the question, “When should winter break start?”

This last episode of our Road Trip series is our favorite! We take you on a few of our memorable road trips - across country, to San Francisco, and even a couple local Donut Road Trips! Also, we discuss the question, can I work and homeschool?

Reviewing Gatto’s book, Dumbing Us Down, always adds a bit of spice to our discussions. This episode’s chapter is another speech of his, about segregation of ages, detachment from community, growing up absurd, television mentors, and more. We also answer your question about how to help your community together as a family. Check out our other book club episodes in this series on episodes 55 and 57.