The Funschoolers

Hey there! Christal Marshall here, and I’ve got something really important to share that’s been on my mind. After diving deep into various educational methods, I’ve discovered some eye-opening truths about what truly works for our kids.I've explored everything from virtual learning platforms to traditional workbooks and curated curriculums. Through all this, one thing has become crystal clear: we need a balance between analog and digital activities. I love looking at how other cultures approach education too. What are the best schools around the world doing? It turns out many of them are leaning back towards good old-fashioned learning—real books, hands-on activities, and skills that go beyond screens.Take Waldorf schools, for example. Many tech-savvy parents in Silicon Valley are pulling their kids out of traditional schools to enroll them in these nature-focused, hands-on environments with minimal technology. They’ve seen the negative impacts of too much screen time and want to nurture a more holistic approach to learning.See articles here; https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2019/06/07/waldorf-schools-teach-without-technology-heres-what-it-is-like.htmlhttps://lareviewofbooks.org/article/the-smartest-people-in-the-room-what-silicon-valleys-supposed-obsession-with-tech-free-private-schools-really-tells-us/https://www.the-independent.com/tech/bill-gates-and-steve-jobs-raised-their-kids-techfree-and-it-should-ve-been-a-red-flag-a8017136.htmlAnd then there’s Finland, known for having one of the best education systems in the world. They still prioritize analog activities while achieving impressive academic results. It’s fascinating how these schools are thriving without drowning in tech, and it makes me reflect on what I do at home.See article here; https://www.technology.org/2024/09/11/finnish-schools-shift-back-to-books-phasing-out-screens-after-years-of-tech-integration/At my place, I’m constantly surrounded by piles of activities—Play-Doh, Legos, science kits, you name it. We have a yard for outdoor play and craft kits for creative projects.We use www.crunchlabs.com and www.kiwico.com for some of our activitiesSure, it can be a bit overwhelming and parent-heavy, especially during busy seasons when my work in wedding photography takes off. During those times, I leaned more on virtual learning out of necessity. I totally get that each approach has its drawbacks.But right now, I'm making a conscious effort to visit the library and bookstore regularly. I want my kids to pick out physical books and experience the joy of reading something tangible. Audiobooks play in the background while they’re building or creating, and I try to ensure we get outside to parks and nature as much as we can. I know this isn’t always feasible for every family, but I find that this slower-paced educational approach is incredibly rewarding.Now, here’s the thing: our schools are overloaded with educational technology, and while gamifying learning can seem like a great idea to boost engagement, it comes with its own set of problems. The quick dopamine hits from gamified activities can lead to a cycle where kids become less sensitive to rewards. When the novelty wears off, everything else feels boring and tedious.Think about it: if a child spends a significant part of their day in a gamified environment, they might struggle to find joy in slower-paced, meaningful activities. That’s where executive function comes in—the ability to set goals and work towards them patiently. Delayed gratification is a skill that needs to be nurtured, and it’s something I believe we need to be more mindful of.As much as video games can be fun and engaging, too much can create a dopamine deficit, making everything else seem less exciting. I don’t want to panic over video games, but moderation is key.

🌱 **Plant the Seeds of Grit! 🌱**Are you ready to empower the next generation? Let’s talk about grit—the secret ingredient to success! Inspired by the research of psychologist Angela Duckworth, we know that raw talent isn't enough. It's the perseverance and passion for long-term goals that truly make a difference. 💪✨ (see book here: www.angeladuckworth.com Here’s why grit matters:1. **Grit vs. Talent**: While natural abilities can give an advantage, it’s grit that helps us push through challenges and learn from setbacks. Embrace the journey of growth!2. **Educational Impact**: Grit leads to better academic outcomes. Students who cultivate perseverance are more likely to tackle difficult subjects and excel in their studies. Let’s support our kids in their educational adventures!3. **Cultivating Grit**: As parents and educators, we can nurture grit by encouraging kids to take on challenges and view failures as valuable lessons. Create a home where effort is celebrated, and resilience is built!4. **Real-Life Applications**: Grit is essential not just in school but in all aspects of life—sports, arts, and relationships. Teach your children to stay committed to their passions, even when the going gets tough. They’ll be better prepared for whatever life throws their way!5. **Practical Strategies**: - Encourage a growth mindset—celebrate effort and persistence! - Allow kids to face challenges independently, guiding them when needed. - Celebrate progress, not just results. - Help them set realistic goals and break them into manageable steps.6. **Be a Role Model**: Show your children what grit looks like in action. Share your own struggles and victories, demonstrating that hard work and determination pay off!Let’s plant the seeds of grit together! 🌱💖 By focusing on developing this essential quality, we can equip our children with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and chase their dreams with unwavering determination.👉 **Join the movement! Share your stories of grit in the comments below! Together, we can inspire a generation to embrace challenges and flourish.** #Grit #Empowerment #Parenting #Education #GrowthMindset---

"🎙️ Feeling frustrated with parenting? What if I told you it’s a lot like playing a video game? In this episode, I relate common parenting challenges to video game levels and share tips on how to 'level up' in your approach.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#ParentingTips #LifeLessons #ParentingStruggles #Homeschooling #Podcast"

"🎙️ What do kids really need to know for life? It's more than just reading and math! In this episode, I dive into the life skills every child should have and how homeschooling and work-life balance as a small business owner plays a key role in teaching them.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#Homeschooling #WorkLifeBalance #LifeSkills #SmallBusinessLife #ParentingTips #Podcast"

The part of full-time homeschooling and running a business that no one talks about? It’s not all sunshine and rainbows! Tune in as I share the behind-the-scenes challenges, the real struggles, and how to manage it all.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#Homeschooling #MompreneurLife #BehindTheScenes #BusinessAndFamily #Podcast"

"🎙️ The top three things I want my kids to know before they graduate—it's not just about academics. Tune in as I share the key lessons and values I focus on in our homeschool to prepare them for life beyond school.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#Homeschooling #ParentingGoals #LifeLessons #Education #Podcast"

🎙️ What don’t we teach in our homeschool? It’s just as important as what we do teach. In this episode, I’m sharing the philosophies behind what we skip, why we skip it, and how it aligns with our homeschooling values. Tune in to hear about our approach and if it might be a good fit for your family.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#HomeschoolPhilosophy #Unschooling #HomeschoolLife #Education #Parenting #LearningThroughPlay #MontessoriAtHome #Podcast"

🎙️ What does your child really need to succeed in school and in life? It’s more than just grades—it’s about mindset, skills, and support. Tune in for the most important tips every parent needs to hear to help their child thrive.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#ParentingTips #ChildSuccess #Homeschooling #Podcast"

🎙️ What has a decade of homeschooling taught me? It’s more than just academics—it’s about fostering mental wellness and creating an environment where kids can truly thrive. Tune in to hear my philosophy on education, the importance of mental health, and how to nurture a balanced, happy homeschool life.

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#HomeschoolPhilosophy #MentalWellness #ParentingTips #Podcast"

"🏡📚 Think homeschooling means no social life? That stay-at-home moms don’t ‘really’ work? Or that running a business while homeschooling is impossible? 🎙️ In this episode, I’m debunking the biggest misconceptions about homeschooling, SAHM life, and being a mompreneur. Get the real scoop and practical tips to make it all work!

👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com

#HomeschoolMyths #MompreneurLife #SAHM #Podcast"