The Homeschool Highschool Podcast

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Stress Management for the Holidays with Natalie Mack.

We know that stress can be a big issue, especially during the holidays, but even after the holidays, anxiety, depression, and the winter blues can creep in. Let’s talk about ways to manage these feelings and create a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for our families. Our friend and Cousin Natalie Mack shares tips for stress management for the holidays.

Natalie has been a homeschooling mom for twenty-two years with five children, four have graduated from college while one is still homeschooling high school!

She is a retired Navy chaplain spouse and has a Master’s Degree in Education and Counseling. Natalie has worked in various fields such as drug and alcohol abuse, social work, and marriage and family therapy. Recently, Natalie has been leading the military outreach program for HSLDA. She also shares her wisdom at Natalie-Mack.com, where she offers some helpful freebies for homeschooling families.

Homeschooling through the holidays can look completely different from “work, work work”! You can slow down with the schoolwork during the holidays and focus on creating fun experiences with your children. While it may be tempting to push through and maintain a rigorous academic schedule, remember that the academics will always be there. Take the time to enjoy holiday activities, bond as a family, and create lasting memories.

(Here’s a fun writing project about creating a Holiday Family Narrative, instead of typical academics.)

The picture-perfect moments we often see on social media or in magazines are not the reality of everyday life. Instead of striving for perfection, try embracing the joyful imperfections that come with family gatherings.

Remember the quote from GK Chesterton: 

Anything worth doing is worth doing badly. 

Learning happens in many different ways (including the developing a growth mindset during the ups and downs of imperfect celebrations).

It may sound simple, but taking deep breaths and focusing on our breath can do wonders for managing stress. When we are feeling overwhelmed, our bodies flood with stress hormones, but the antidote is right there in the air. 

So, whenever you can, take a moment to pause, take a deep breath in, and slowly exhale. It helps chip away at those stress hormones and calms our nervous system. You can teach this technique to your teens as well!

Take advantage of the unique field trip opportunities available during the holiday season. Many places offer special events and attractions during the holidays. 

Whether it’s visiting nature gardens with beautiful lights or driving along the boardwalk to see Christmas decorations, these experiences create lasting memories and provide valuable learning opportunities for your kids. Plus, they are just a lot of fun!

Field trips during the holidays are a fantastic way to bond as a family and create positive memories. Education an happen anywhere, and these experiences enrich our lives in so many ways.

Holiday-themed picture books are a great way to create a cozy and magical atmosphere during the season. They have a way of bringing joy and warmth to our hearts. Snuggling up together and reading these books aloud fosters a sense of togetherness and creates cherished memories. 

Explore book lists from resources like Read Aloud Revival and 7Sisters Homeschool to discover wonderful holiday reads. Visit your local library and pick up some holiday-themed picture books. Make it a tradition to read holiday books with your loved ones and let the joy and laughter fill your home.

7SistersHomeschool has a Literature Study Guide for A Christmas Carol. Not only that, we offer a Cinema Studies for Literature Learning Guide for A Christmas Carol, as well. This is a meaningful way to sneak in some no-busywork, meaningful education.

Organization can make a big difference in reducing stress during the holidays. (Hey, it’s okay if organization is not your strong suit.) You can learn the value of organization, especially during the holidays, from others, such as from our 7th Sister, Allison, who is a master at event planning. We turned her planning skills into a unit study for planning the Thanksgiving meal.

Consider the flow of activities, such as setting up a buffet with silverware and napkins placed at the end to avoid juggling them while serving food. These small organizational adjustments can make a significant difference in reducing stress levels.

Do what you can to prioritize your to-do lists and let go of unnecessary tasks. Recognize that it’s impossible to do everything perfectly, and some things can be dropped without major consequences. 

Focus on what truly matters and be intentional about allocating your time and energy to activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Good holiday event planning is about finding what works for you and creating a sense of calmness amidst the busyness!

The holiday season should be a time of joy, togetherness, and relaxation. Follow these stress management tips for the holidays and then let us know how they helped you!

Find Natalie Mack at Natalie-Mack.com and lots of places through Linktree.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season filled with beautiful memories!

Thank you to Seth Tillman for editing and Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post!

The post Stress Management for the Holidays with Natalie Mack appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Why Teach Human Development in Homeschool High School? Special replay.

When Vicki was in graduate school for counseling, she specialized Human Development. She loved it so much because as a mom, she was watching Human Development develop in her own kids! After all Human Development is the study of how people grown and change from womb to old age.

So, when her kids started to homeschool high school, she wanted them to have a Human Development course for their homeschool transcripts. She felt like it would be great life preparation, since it is likely that they would interact with people the rest of their lives and understand why people at different ages do different things would be helpful. It would help them understand their baby brother learning object permanence or their grandfather who always told the same stories over and over.

Unfortunately for Vicki, there was no high school Human Development text available to homeschool high schoolers, especially one from a Christian worldview. SO, what to do? In typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, Vicki wrote her own text! Also in typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, she wrote 7Sisters Human Development from a Christian Worldview text to cover the necessary scope and sequence but with no-busywork and readable (and enjoyable) by an average teen. Then, in typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, she included instructions for leveling up to Honors credit in a meaningful way for the college-bound teens.

The study of the physical, cognitive, emotional and social changes that people experience as they grow from womb to old age.

For instance, adolescents go through a cognitive process called metacognition. Metacognition is the ability to think about thinking. Metacognitive teens think about who they are, what they feel, what the believe and why things are what they are. When teens learn from their Human Development course that the metacognitive process they are experiencing is natural and normal, they can enjoy the process!

Also, Human Development learn their two-year-old siblings (or the kids they are babysitting) are stomping their feet and saying, “NO!” (Toddlers are going through the early stages of finding out they are individuals. They find out where their personhood “stops” by testing out “No!”

They also learn about why their parents push them to accomplish stuff (middle-aged parents are in the “generative stage”- needing to be productive).

It sure is! Human Development can be a blast! Not only do homeschool high schoolers have the chance to learn and discuss what they are learning and experiencing in their own families, but there are so many fun things that can be done in the co-op setting.

For instance, homeschool co-ops can:

Homeschool co-ops are also a wonderful place to allow teens to present projects they have done related to things that interest them about Human Development.

Hey, did you know that we will provide a homeschool co-op discount for Human Development from a Christian Worldview and all our texts?

Also, you can find lesson plans for co-op teachers and a suggested syllabus for your homeschool co-op classes.

No way! Teens do not need to be preached at! However, the idea that God created people is implied through the text.

Join Vicki for an informative chat about her favorite subject: Human Development!

The post Why Teach Human Development in Homeschool High School? Special Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Soft Skills and Leadership Training with Ignite4Impact.

Want to give your teens some biblically based soft skills that build compassion and leadership skills? Join Vicki and Michelle Koles of Ignite 4 Impact to discuss ways her program equips them to be the world-changers of the next generation.

Vicki met Michelle Koles at the digital Homeschooling Teen Successfully Summit and was excited to find someone who had a full program  that develops social skills, compassion skills and leadership skills. These are ALL vital skills that our teens need for their own success personally. Not only that, homeschoolers need these skills so that they can fully take their place in the world after they graduate.

Michelle holds a Master’s in Education, Special Education Leadership and Teaching. She has been in education for twenty-five years. She has done lots of things in education over the years. For instance, she ran a Montessori school when her oldest child was young and taught college classes.

Michelle’s first born was bright and curious, so at two years old, she started teaching him at home, reading and, and letters and different things. They also loved going on field trips together. This gave Michelle an early taste of homeschooling!

Then Michelle and her husband adopted two kids. One of these children had medical problems and fetal alcohol syndrome. He was having a big struggle in middle school, made worse by his medical problems affecting his learning and abilities.

Finally, Michelle said, “enough is enough. We can’t do this anymore. I’m just gonna homeschool him!”

Homeschooling has been going great for Michelle and her son! Like many of us homeschooling parents, we find that our teens can get a lot done! Not only that, but he’s learning so much and at a much (as many people realize) at a much faster and easier pace.

Now, her son your son goes with her when she teaches at a local homeschool organization. So homeschooling and homeschool-community involvement kind of just happened. As Michelle says, “you know, like God directing your path!”

Ignite 4 Impact came out of work she was doing with her son and the local homeschool community. She saw the need for soft skills compassion skills and leadership skills not only with her son and his friends but also, her husband saw deficits in these skills in the young college students he was hiring at his job.

Michelle noticed that it is not difficult teach young people how to do the job. However, it is harder to teach them skills like:

In fact, research shows that “85% of job success is related to having well-developed soft skills and people skills”. (Cambridge University)

When young people loose their jobs in the first eighteen months of employment, it is not usually because they cannot handle the actual job. Rather, it is because they are coming in late, making excuses for things, not working together well with colleagues.

So, during Covid lockdown, Michelle took the courses she was teaching her son and the local homeschoolers and created a digital program to teach, from a biblical viewpoint, about soft skills, compassion and leadership skills.

During Covid lockdown, Michelle and her son practiced soft skills and compassion skills in several ways:

They helped out their community by running errands for neighbors.

They brought coffee and snacks to overworked hospital staff. Because the hospital cafeterias were closed, so the staff did not have access to like snacks and coffee. So Michelle and her son did a fundraiser and with the help of a local coffee distributor and a local farm, dropped off goodies that helped keep the staff going during those hard times.

To celebrate her son’s sixteenth birthday, he wanted to host his own charity game tournament. So, he had these local mom pop businesses supporting his idea along with individuals who donated to the cause. Then, participants played the game all day long and learn how that whole process worked, learn how to talk to adults. He donated the proceeds to a special education program and the local food bank.

Thus, with her (and her son’s) love and passion for service she created an online organization. Check out their mission statement:

Ignite4Impact helps young people learn and apply valuable soft skills to build a strong foundation for success. We provide lessons, activities and guides that will help your teens discover these skills. Our program gets teens into amazing team building lessons as they learn these skills to become effective teammates as they create and run project to make an impact on themselves and the world.

The teens in that first program were joined by experts from around the world. The young people learned soft skills as they were developing a meaningful project to make an impact. These teens created projects like:

Each module has a different soft skill to develop.

Click here for more information on the twelve-module program from Ignite4Impact.

Teens learn soft skills with these free, engaging activities! Michelle also has activities for younger children.

Give your teens some biblically-based, soft skills, compassion skills and leadership skills!

If you are looking for simple social skills for elementary-aged children, also check out 7SistersHomeschool’s Social Skills for Children.

Thanks to Seth Tillman for editing this episode!

The post Soft Skills and Leadership Training with Ignite4Impact appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Financial Literacy for Homeschool High Schoolers.

How do you go about preparing homeschool high schoolers for managing money throughout their lives? Financial Literacy is a life skills math credit that many teens will use WAY more often than their high school math. Join Sabrina, Vicki, Kym and Eagle, the Seeing Eye puppy for a fun discussion of Financial Literacy curriculum.

Back in 2008, when the economy crashed, some economists believed that poor training in personal financial management (including too much mortgage debt) was part of the problem. In reaction to this, many state education departments began to require that high school transcripts include Consumer Math so that teen could have at least basic money management skills.

But Consumer Math might not be enough for many teens. If they want real-life preparation for not just money, but for making financial decisions, for planning and for other financial considerations, teens need more. They need Financial Literacy.

Financial Literacy involves a ton of life skills! You have seen memes on social media:

At tax time, nobody wants to know whether you can balance an algebra equation!

However, it IS important to how to fill out your 1040! Not only that, teens are wise to learn how create a budget, purchase the right kind of insurances, as well as understand how to invest in the future with savings and investment accounts. That’s what financial literacy is about. It is not plain math. It is math that your teen will actually use.

We, of course, like 7Sisters’ Financial Literacy because it covers all the bases of Financial Literacy courses but also trains students on how to find information (and where to avoid information).

This course takes homeschool high schoolers through an interactive course where they:

Teens finish the course with a life plan and a current budget and lifestyle decisions for their present and future!

This is a powerful contrast to simply reading a Consumer Math or Financial Literacy textbook and taking the chapter tests. So many teens feel bored as they work through a classic textbook. However, when they interact with the curriculum and make plans that affect their current lives, they feel empowered and engaged. That is what we want from life skills training!

As soon as 7Sisters’ published our Financial Literacy course, our teens began using it and teaching it in our local homeschool co-op and umbrella-school classes. The curriculum was vetted by the teens, who gave valuable feedback on how they learn best. Those teens are now adults and still using the skills they learned from their Financial Literacy course.

Check out these posts from 7Sister Sara’s sons Luke and Joel. You’ll also enjoy this Dollars and Cents Podcast episode on How to Teach Kids about Managing Money.

So, download 7SistersHomeschool’s Financial Literacy from a Christian Perspective for your teens and help them be prepared for finances in adulthood. While you are at it, take a look at these related articles and resources to enrich your teen’s Financial Literacy experiences:

BTW- We’re 7SistersHomeschool.There are six of us: Vicki, Sabrina, Kym, Marilyn, Allison and Sara. So, WHO is the 7th Sister? YOU are!

Join ALL your other 7th Sisters over at our 7SistersHomeschool Facebook group, where you can ask questions and share ideas.

Interactive Financial Literacy Course: Why it is Awesome & How to Use it

The post Financial Literacy for Homeschool High Schoolers- Special Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week we will discuss: Training Teens to be Civil in an Uncivil World- Special Replay

In our opinion, this is one of the most important episodes we have ever recorded. We replay it periodically, please join us for a listen.

Join Sabrina, Kym and Vicki for an important discussion about civility. Our world is increasingly unkind and uncivil. Teens are surrounded by political figures on the news who are crude, rude and unkind. Social media is full of ugly, unkind behavior. Civility seems to be going out of style.

This is so contradictory to the love of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness and self-control. There is no room for unkindness there. If we are wise, we will train our teens to be civil in this uncivil world.

Because we are all broken, so we can have compassion on other broken people.

When we operate in incivility we tend to emotionally eat each other up. Remember the book Millions of Cats? A peasant with a million cats found that they were a cranky and jealous bunch who got into such a big fight that they ate each other up. Here’s a video of that classic book.

Teens do not come to these skills on their own. They need parents to:

Here’s another Homeschool Highschool Podcast episode on training your teens to become cultural influencers.

Or check out this post where teens explain how 7Sisters Great Christian Writers course was powerful for their character development.

The post Training Teens to be Civil in an Uncivil World- Special Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Harmonious Homeschools with Teresa Wiedrick.

Homeschooling is a rewarding but often chaotic journey. If you are feeling the pressure, especially around October when the honeymoon phase of the school year starts to wear off, you are not alone. The idea of a “harmonious homeschool” might seem like a distant dream when the kids are arguing, the curriculum feels overwhelming, and you are running low on patience. The good news is that finding peace in your homeschool is not only possible but essential for long-term success in finding a relaxed homeschooling lifestyle!

Let’s dive into some practical tips that can help transform your homeschool into a more harmonious environment for both you and your children. These ideas come from the experience and wisdom of Teresa Wiedrick, our dear friend and Cousin, as well as homeschool mama self-care coach at Capturing the Charmed Life.

Also, check out her fun interviews with Homeschool Highschool Podcast about homeschooling in Canada and how to engage high schoolers.

One of the most valuable lessons in creating a harmonious homeschool is recognizing that it starts with you. As Teresa highlights,

“We set the precedent by being what we’re hoping our children will be.” 

In other words, how you manage your own emotions and reactions has a significant impact on your children. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, chances are that tension will spill over into your homeschool.

Before diving into the day’s lessons, take a moment to check in with yourself. Ask,

“How am I feeling right now? What do I need?” 

Addressing your own emotional needs sets an example for your children and creates an environment where they, too, can learn how to manage their emotions. 

Remember, your kids are watching and learning from you, even on your tough days.

Unrealistic expectations are one of the biggest stressors for homeschool moms. Teresa recalls her early years of homeschooling when she had a vision of the perfect homeschool day: 

“I had this idea that we should look like the cover of a homeschooling magazine—kids all smiling around the table with their books open, and everything going smoothly.” 

But let’s be real – homeschooling rarely looks like that!

The key is to embrace imperfection and adjust your expectations.

It’s okay if the day doesn’t go as planned. It’s okay if you don’t finish the entire curriculum. 

Learning happens in a variety of ways, and sometimes the most valuable lessons come from unplanned moments. Be flexible and recognize that every day won’t be perfect – and that’s perfectly okay. That’s what realistic expectations can do for us!

Around October, many homeschool moms start to feel the strain. The initial excitement of the new school year fades, and the reality of day-to-day homeschooling sets in. 

Burnout is real, but it does not have to be the end of your homeschooling journey. 

Take time to reflect on what’s causing your stress. Are your expectations too high? Are you feeling isolated or overwhelmed? 

Once you identify the source, you can start taking small steps to address it. Whether it’s incorporating more breaks into your day, seeking support from a homeschool community, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down, managing burnout is essential for creating harmonious homeschools.

Homeschooling is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every family is different, and what works one year might not work the next. It’s okay to adapt and change. There’s no perfect way to homeschool.

Some years, you might thrive on a structured schedule; other years, you might lean more toward unschooling or a more relaxed approach. 

The key is to remain open to change and adopt a growth mindset.

Having a routine provides structure, but do not be afraid to leave room for spontaneous learning experiences. While your family may eventually find a rhythm that works for everyone, be sure to also allow for flexibility. 

Some days, educational activities might flow seamlessly, while other days require a break or a shift in focus. It’s all about finding a balance that works for your family.

As homeschool moms, we often hold ourselves to impossibly high standards. But remember, you are human. Teresa encourages moms to practice self-compassion, especially on the tough days. 

We are not always going to have amazing days, but our goal is to do our best and trust the process.

Give yourself grace, acknowledge that not every day will go perfectly, and celebrate the small wins along the way.

Calm homeschooling does not mean a perfect homeschool. It means creating an environment where both you and your children can thrive, even amid challenges. Start by regulating your own emotions, adjusting expectations, and allowing room for flexibility. Recognize that getting weary is normal but manageable, and most importantly, be kind to yourself throughout the process. 

Homeschooling is a journey, and by focusing on harmony rather than perfection, you can create a more peaceful and fulfilling experience for your family. It is not about creating a picture-perfect experience, either. It’s about nurturing your children’s love for learning while maintaining your own well-being. 

Join Vicki and Teresa as they talk about giving yourself permission to adapt, grow, and find joy in the imperfections.

Check out Teresa Wiedrick at:

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

The post Harmonious Homeschools with Teresa Wiedrick appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Teens Who Become Entrepreneurs with Leigh Nguyen.

Teens have the potential to be anything they want to be and do anything they want to do. It’s incredible how many opportunities are available for homeschool high schoolers in today’s age. One popular path many young adults are taking nowadays is entrepreneurship.

Leigh Nguyen, of the Little by Little Homeschool podcast, is a homeschool mom who’s raising entrepreneurial teens. Leigh joins Vicki to not only share her experience homeschooling her children but also the remarkable journey of her son. He turned a simple lawn mowing gig into a thriving business. Leigh’s story will encourage you to embrace their individuality and help you to guide your them on their unique paths!

Leigh Nguyen’s homeschool journey began, as many do, unexpectedly. She did not initially plan to homeschool her children. Like most of us, she thought the public school route was a given. 

However, halfway through her daughter’s 2nd grade year, Leigh felt a calling, a nudge from God, encouraging her to homeschool. What started as a leap of faith led to years of dedication, growth, and some incredible achievements, including raising teens with a passion for entrepreneurship. 

Leigh’s story highlights that homeschool is not just about academics, it’s about nurturing your child’s unique gifts and potential… even if that means stepping into the unknown world of entrepreneurship.

Leigh’s 19-year-old son, who once ran a humble firewood stand, now owns a full-fledged landscaping business with multiple employees, trucks, and a snow-plowing operation. 

His entrepreneurial spark was first noticed when he expressed a desire to split and sell firewood. Fast forward to today, and that small venture has grown into something much bigger, fueled by his interest in business and the freedom that homeschooling allows.

Homeschooling gave Leigh’s son the time and flexibility to pursue his interests, even incorporating business principles into his elective credits. By weaving entrepreneurship into his homeschool curriculum, he pursued his passion while ensuring he met academic requirements. 

Business books, hands-on learning, and mentorship all counted toward his education, and as Leigh wisely notes, “We learn best by failure.”

Leigh believes in giving kids room to fail, encouraging them to learn from mistakes without the fear of drastic consequences. It’s this balance of guidance and freedom that has allowed her son to grow into a confident and capable young entrepreneur.

For homeschool moms looking to foster entrepreneurial minds in their teens, Leigh offers a few key insights. 

Encourage them to pursue their passions by allowing room for mistakes, provide opportunities to learn through real-world experience, and find mentors who can guide them. 

Entrepreneurship helps start a business, yes, but it also involves cultivating soft skills like resilience, networking, and problem-solving. By doing this, Leigh has helped her son—and now her younger children—turn their interests into potential careers.

One of the unique opportunities in homeschooling high schoolers who are pursuing entrepreneurial ventures is capturing these experiences as elective Career Exploration credits on a transcript. Leigh found creative ways to do this by blending traditional courses, like accounting, with practical business experience. 

Her son took online accounting courses and read business books to help him better understand his company’s finances. These studies, combined with hours spent running his business, counted toward elective credits in his homeschool curriculum.

Leigh emphasizes the importance of finding balance. Her son may not be on a college track, but that does not mean his education lacks depth or rigor. He is fulfilling state requirements for graduation while gaining real-world business experience. After all, as we always say:

There’s not ONE right way to homeschool high school…we help our teens develop their interests and goals in the way the is right for each unique capability.

For other homeschool moms, Leigh suggests naming courses creatively. If your child is passionate about entrepreneurship, credits could be given in areas like business management, finance, or marketing. 

The beauty of homeschooling is the flexibility to tailor education to your homeschool high schooler’s interests and gifts.

Leigh’s younger son is also showing signs of entrepreneurial ambition, though his interests are entirely different. He is currently working on getting his drone pilot license, a passion that started years ago with a small toy drone. 

Leigh’s approach with her youngest is similar to how she guided her older son: 

Whether it’s mowing lawns, selling firewood, or piloting drones, homeschooling offers the flexibility to nurture these unique interests, allowing teens to grow into entrepreneurs in their own right.

Leigh’s journey with her children reminds us that homeschooling is about more than textbooks and tests – it’s about fostering independence, creativity, and self-confidence. Her teens are not following the traditional college path. Rather, they are fulfilling their potentials and interests as they are gaining skills and experiences that will serve them for a lifetime.

Your teen’s education is a journey, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Whether your teen is destined to be an entrepreneur or follow a more conventional path, homeschooling gives you the freedom to help them become who they were meant to be – little by little.

Hear more from Leigh Nguyen: check out her podcast, Little by Little Homeschool, where she shares practical tips for homeschooling moms, encouraging us all to embrace this unique and rewarding journey.

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

The post Teens Who Become Entrepreneurs with Leigh Nguyen appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: How to Have Good Conversations with Your Teen.

Communication is key with teens! Join Vicki for some tips on ways to strengthen relationships with your homeschool high schoolers by sharing meaningful conversations with them.

We homeschool moms wear multiple hats, from teachers to mentors and referees and counselors, and naturally, we want to have those kinds of connections with our teens. But let’s be real – some teens open up like books, while others need a whole invitation to get past “fine” when you ask them how their day was.

First things first, it’s important to remember that not every teen is the same. Some are natural-born chatterboxes, while others are more introspective and observers. 

It’s important to recognize that each teen has their own personality and preferred way of communicating  

If your teen is not the type to pour out their thoughts right away, try not to take it personally. It does not necessarily mean they do not want to talk. It might just means they might need a different approach.

We at 7Sisters had all kinds of teens. Here are some of the different approaches that we found worked with various teens.

That leads to the first strategy – pick your time and place. For instance, trying to engage a night owl teen at 7:30 AM is a recipe for disaster. And if your early bird is ready for a chat, 10 PM might not be the best time. 

Likewise, sometimes a neutral setting, like grabbing a coffee or taking a car ride, can make all the difference. Car rides, in particular, can be magical because no one has to make eye contact, and the movement seems to ease the pressure. Vicki found car rides were the number one location for deep and meaningful conversations with her teens.

Another helpful tip? Let food facilitate a fun conversation!

It’s funny, but sometimes sitting down with snacks creates an atmosphere where teens feel more comfortable. It’s like sharing food levels the playing field and makes even tough conversations feel less formal. 

You do not have to go all out – a simple snack at the kitchen table or a stop at a drive-thru can help facilitate a smoother exchange. 

Plus, if it’s an especially challenging conversation, food can offer a little comfort to both of you.

When talking with teens, it’s crucial to make them feel safe in expressing themselves without fear of judgment. 

Sometimes teens may assume we already have all the answers or are not genuinely interested in their thoughts, but a simple question like, “What did you think about that?” or “I wonder why you feel that way?” can unlock deeper conversation. 

It’s essential to approach these talks with an open mind, giving them the space to share, even if their perspective challenges your own. Remember: relationship is the emphasis!

If your teen has an opinion that you do not fully agree with, resist the urge to jump in and “fix” it. Let them talk it out, and then ask follow-up questions that show you are genuinely curious. 

Encouraging them to explain their thought process not only makes them feel heard but also helps develop critical thinking skills. 

And hey, sometimes they might surprise you with a new perspective you had not considered. Remember, adolescence is the time our offspring need to try on different ideas and goals. The more you listen and hold back from quickly jumping in, the more they can grow under your loving, watchful and prayerful eyes. (Also, let them make some mistakes… unless those mistakes are too dangerous, of course.)

Lastly, do not underestimate the power of using shared experiences as conversation starters. Whether it’s discussing a book, a movie, or even something seen on social media, these external sources can be gateways into deeper topics. 

They take the pressure off the teen to come up with something to talk about on their own and can make tricky subjects feel more approachable.

The bottom line is this:

Conversations with your teen are not just about exchanging information; they are about connection. It’s about creating a space where your teen feels seen, heard, and valued. 

So next time you’re facing a conversation that feels complex, take a deep breath, grab some snacks, and remember—it’s all about heart. BTW- Also, we can extend conversations into the way we homeschool- check out Sabrina’s talk on conversational homeschooling. 

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

The post How to Have Good Conversations with Your Teen appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Homeschool Graduate and Entrepreneur: Lydia Smith.

Today, we’re excited to share the inspiring story of Lydia Smith, a homeschool graduate who has already journeyed on an entrepreneurial adventure. Lydia has combined her passion for creativity with her homeschooling foundation to launch her own business, Pieces of Forever. This interview showcases Lydia’s homeschool experience, her entrepreneurial tips, and her journey in turning memories into cherished keepsakes.

Lydia Smith was homeschooled for her entire academic life, and she credits homeschooling for providing her with unique learning experiences and flexibility. 

One of her fondest memories is sitting under a blanket with her mom during preschool, imagining the pillar of fire with a candle as they studied the Ark of the Covenant. 

This creative approach to education gave Lydia a deep love for learning early on, especially in reading and writing.

As the oldest of eight children, Lydia appreciated the flexibility that homeschooling offered, especially when it came to tailoring her education to her strengths and weaknesses.

For example, she was able to dive into advanced literature like The Chronicles of Narnia in first grade, while also receiving the support she needed in math, which didn’t come as easily to her. This individualized pace allowed her to excel where she had a passion and take her time in areas that needed more focus. 

As Lydia put it, “The flexibility was just incredible.”

Lydia’s love of literature continued through high school, where she enjoyed reading classics like Moby Dick, Jane Eyre, and Shakespeare. She credits a rigorous literature course she took in high school, Right at Home Literature (formerly Wasco Lit), for deepening her appreciation for challenging texts.

But as a homeschool graduate, Lydia didn’t just stop at reading. Her passion for writing blossomed, and today, she’s involved with The Author Conservatory, a program that mentors young writers who aspire to be full-time authors. 

She joined the program during her senior year of high school and is currently working on a project about Eliab, the oldest brother of King David. Her story explores the theme of being the forgotten older sibling – a topic close to her heart as the eldest of eight!

More creative writing ideas at 7SistersHomeschool for co-op or individual.

The real reason we’re highlighting Lydia today is entrepreneurial project: Pieces of Forever. This unique business transforms cherished pieces of clothing into decorative throw pillows, giving people a tangible way to hold onto special memories.

From graduation gowns to baby clothes and even quirky cat sweaters, Lydia turns items that would otherwise sit in storage into functional and sentimental keepsakes. How incredible – and creative – is it to see potential in everything around you!

Lydia’s idea for Pieces of Forever came from her work with The Author Conservatory, where students learn not only how to write but also the business side of being an author. Part of the program includes creating a small business to practice entrepreneurship skills. 

Lydia, who has loved sewing for over a decade, saw an opportunity to combine her love of fabric with the need to preserve memories. 

“I’ve always loved sewing, and I had this idea in the back of my mind for a while. When I brought it to my instructors, they said, ‘Do it,’ and I did,” Lydia explained.

Pieces of Forever is more than just a business for Lydia. It’s also a way to bless others!

She shared one touching story about a man from Pennsylvania who had recently lost his wife. He sent Lydia a pajama shirt of hers to be turned into a pillow. 

When he received the finished piece, he sent Lydia a heartfelt note explaining how much it meant to him to have a tangible reminder of his wife. 

“That was incredible,” Lydia recalled. “It was so important and meaningful to him.”

But it’s not just grieving loved ones who find comfort in Lydia’s work. She’s created pillows out of everything from baby clothes to graduation gowns, and even humorous items like cat sweaters. 

She’s even done joke pillows, too! Anything that’s going to make someone’s day a little brighter, she wants to do it.

For homeschool high schoolers who may want to start their own businesses one day, heed a few tips Lydia shares:

Lydia’s journey is a wonderful example of how homeschooling can foster both academic success and entrepreneurial spirit. Her story reminds us that with creativity, passion, and a little bit of flexibility, homeschoolers can achieve great things – even before they graduate. Thank you, Lydia, for sharing your journey with us!

How to Connect with Lydia

If you’d like to learn more about Pieces of Forever or place an order, you can find Lydia on Etsy at Pieces of Forever Co. She also shares process videos on her YouTube channel. 

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

Homeschool Graduate and Entrepreneur_ Lydia Smith

The post Homeschool Graduate and Entrepreneur: Lydia Smith appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Why Study Early Childhood Education in High School.

One of the most fun and practical electives your homeschool high schooler can take is Early Childhood Education. While it’s not a required course for graduation, it’s a fantastic choice for career exploration and life preparation. Why study early childhood education in high school, you might be wondering? Jump in and let’s explore why it can be such a valuable and enjoyable part of your child’s homeschool curriculum.

Early Childhood Education (ECE) is an elective course designed to teach teens about the growth and development of young children, especially preschoolers. 

With 7Sisters Homeschool’s Early Childhood Education, your teen will get a chance to learn how young children grow, the different educational philosophies that influence early childhood education, and some practical teaching ideas. 

Whether your teen is babysitting or simply has younger siblings, they’ll come away with useful skills that they can apply immediately.

It’s simple and straightforward. Like all 7SistersHomeschool courses, it avoids busy work and is designed to inspire rather than bore students. 

This course takes teens through key topics like educational philosophies (think Montessori or Charlotte Mason) and lesson planning, helping them understand how to create fun and engaging activities for young kids.

There are several great reasons why your teen should consider taking an early childhood education in high school years:

ECE can serve as a “sparkle elective,” which is an elective that shows your teen’s ability to develop interests, life skills, and dive into potential future career paths. 

If your teen is interested in education, social sciences, or psychology, Early Childhood Education is a perfect elective to boost their transcript and help them stand out to colleges.

Early Childhood Education offers a chance for your teen to explore potential careers, whether they’re interested in teaching, working with children, or even psychology. 

For teens already studying courses like human development or psychology, ECE pairs perfectly and can level up their overall learning experience. 

If your teen is thinking about going into social sciences or education, this course will give them a head start.

Many teens will become parents someday, and an early childhood education high school course provides them with valuable insights into the developmental and educational needs of preschool-aged children. 

Understanding how little ones learn and grow prepares teens for future parenting roles and gives them confidence when caring for young children, whether it’s their own or while babysitting.

The 7SistersHomeschool Early Childhood Education course includes a mix of theory and practical application. Here’s what your teen can expect:

One unique aspect of studying Early Childhood Education in high school is its potential as a mission field. A mission field is a place where individuals can serve and impact the lives of others through education and mentorship. 

In today’s world, many parents are career-focused and rely on daycare for their children. By learning about early childhood education, your teen can serve in this important area – helping to meet the needs of young children with love and care. 

This course encourages teens to view working with children as a way to invest in young lives and even plant seeds of the gospel. It’s a wonderful opportunity for teens to think about how they can make a difference in the lives of others.

Last but certainly not least, taking an Early Childhood Education is just plain fun! Teens who take our 7Sisters ECE course often find it to be a lighthearted and enjoyable way to learn. 

The activities are engaging, and the lessons are designed to keep students interested. 

Whether your teen is serious about pursuing a career in early childhood education or just wants a fun elective, they’re bound to enjoy this course.

Early Childhood Education is a valuable elective that offers so much more than just academic credit. It enhances your teen’s transcript, provides career exploration opportunities, equips them with life skills, and offers a unique chance to serve in a mission field. 

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

The post Why Study Early Childhood Education in High School appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.