The Real Kathy Lee

The Real Kathy Lee

By Kathy LeeReligion & SpiritualityChristianityParentingKids & Family
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The Real Kathy Lee episodes

  • Special Replay: Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers
    📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling with Toddlers & Little Ones

    I often get asked how to deal with NO and MINE in toddler world. I see them both as positive words for this age. Toddlers are realizing that they are indeed human and separate from their parents. Isn’t what we hope all of our children realize! Up until this point someone has made all the decisions for them and they FINALLY have a voice. NO, they don’t want peas for dinner. NO, they don’t want to take a bath. NO, they don’t want to go to bed. I bet some toddlers are sooooo excited that they can finally state their opinion. ON this episode, we will talk about this world of toddlers and the many reasons that no and mine are their favorite words. It really is a good thing.

    Also in this episode, I will quickly address some other toddler topics… potty training, biting, and pitching fits. I know for many parents, this toddler stage is challenging. I often suggest that parents try and approach this time with a lighthearted spirit. I always encourage gentle, playful parenting whenever possible, especially during the young years.

    Find a way to #sayyes today.

    Thanks to CTCMath.com as our sponsor! 

    Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

    Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

    Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at
    The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

    The post Special Replay: Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

    17 min
  • Keeping Your Calm This School Year (Special Replay)
    📚 Part of our guide: Back to Homeschool

    Keeping Your Calm This School Year

    Special Replay sponsored by CTCMath.com

    As this school year approaches, I thought I would share some of my plans to have a calm year! This year I have one 7th grader, one 9th grader, two high school seniors, one in Estethecian School and one junior in college. Whew, that is a lot. I will be honest, the first couple of weeks I find myself struggling to get us all on the same page. Between school, jobs, sports, etc… keeping this house running smoothly is a challenge.

     

    Here are some of my tips for surviving back to school:
    1. Create Dream Posters.
    2. Create a Healthy Meal Plan.
    3. Follow Through on Healthy Meal Plan.
    4. Plan a family night to make dream posters. You will need poster board, markers, magazine, and glue. Invite your children to create a dream poster and display them in your home.
    5. Have a Dream Poster Date Night with your partner/spouse.
    6. SLEEP… get sleep. Make sure everyone in the home is getting enough sleep.
    7. Organize your space and remember less is better. Don’t forget to create a cozy corner for reading books/getting away.
    8. Take time to watch and listen. What are your kids talking about, playing with, dreaming of? What pushes their buttons, brings them joy, challenges them?
    9. Create a realistic routine that you can live with. Encourage children to stick with routine.
    10. Be Flexible – If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change it.
      11. **Show Notes: “Keeping Your Calm This School Year” – The Real Kathy Lee**

      **Introduction:**

      – Welcome to “The Real Kathy Lee” podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
      – In this episode, Kathy Lee shares her valuable tips for surviving the back-to-school season with grace and composure.
      – As a homeschooling expert, she knows the challenges parents face during this time and offers practical advice to navigate it successfully.

      **Segment 1: Creating Dream Posters**

      – Kathy Lee’s first tip is to create dream posters with your children.
      – Gather poster board, markers, magazines, and glue for a family night dedicated to this activity.
      – Invite your children to unleash their creativity and make dream posters that represent their aspirations and goals.
      – Display these dream posters proudly in your home, creating a positive and inspiring environment.

      **Segment 2: Dream Poster Date Night**

      – Take the concept of dream posters a step further with a special date night with your partner or spouse.
      – Spend quality time together creating dream posters that encompass your shared dreams and vision for the future.
      – This activity can be a fun and bonding experience, strengthening your connection as a couple.

      **Segment 3: Ensuring Healthy Meals**

      – Kathy Lee emphasizes the importance of a healthy meal plan for the family’s well-being.
      – Develop a meal plan that includes nutritious foods and is realistic for your family’s schedule.
      – Follow through on the meal plan to ensure everyone is well-nourished and energized.

      **Segment 4: The Power of Sleep**

      – Kathy Lee stresses the significance of getting enough sleep for all family members.
      – Establish consistent sleep routines to promote better sleep and overall health.
      – A well-rested family will be better equipped to handle the challenges of the school year.

      **Segment 5: Organizing Your Space**

      – Create a clutter-free and organized living space for a more peaceful home environment.
      – Encourage a “less is better” mindset when it comes to possessions, and declutter regularly.
      – Designate a cozy corner for reading and relaxation, providing a space for family members to unwind.

      **Segment 6: Active Listening**

      – Kathy Lee advises parents to actively listen to their children’s thoughts, interests, and concerns.
      – Pay attention to what excites and motivates your kids, as well as what challenges them.
      – This insight will help you better understand and support your children throughout the school year.

      **Segment 7: Designing Realistic Routines**

      – Develop a practical and feasible daily routine that accommodates the family’s needs and schedules.
      – Encourage children to adhere to the routine, as it provides structure and stability.

      **Segment 8: Embracing Flexibility**

      – Stay open to change and be flexible when certain aspects of the routine or plans aren’t working.
      – Don’t be afraid to make adjustments to improve the family’s well-being and overall happiness.

      **Conclusion:**

      – As the school year begins, it’s crucial to maintain your calm and composure.
      – Kathy Lee’s tips, such as creating dream posters, focusing on healthy meals and sleep, organizing your space, active listening, and embracing flexibility, will help you navigate the back-to-school season with confidence and ease.
      – Remember that each family is unique, so find the strategies that work best for your household.
      – Stay tuned for more insightful episodes on “The Real Kathy Lee” podcast to enhance your homeschooling journey.

       

      Say YES and have a great week!!! Don’t forget that The Homegrown Preschooler’s biggest sale of the year is going on until Labor Day, save $35 off any order of $150 or more.

      Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for me to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let me know. Just email me at [email protected] or shoot me a message on social media.

      Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!! Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

      .

      Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

      Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at
      The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

       

      The post Keeping Your Calm This School Year (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

      20 min
    11. The Damage of Disengaging
      The Damage of Disengaging

      Replay : Sponsored by the NIV Application Bible.

      July 4th is always a favorite holiday for our family. For the past few years, one of my dearest friends on the planet shows up for coffee, long talks, and sitting by the pool. I always try and record a podcast episode during Ash-a- lee’s visit and was so excited that we were able to chat early this morning about a subject that has been on my heart for a few weeks now.

      During some recent outings, I have observed lots of little children that appear “starved” for attention. As I began watching closer, I realized that parents are disengaging with the children and it is happening on a regular basis.

      Do any of you feel you disengage too often with your kids? If so, have you noticed a difference in your child’s behavior when you “check-out”? How can we be intentional about engagement so that we help our children become emotionally healthy adults? I get that we need to escape from the burdens of this parenting gig from time to time, but I worry that unless we make a commitment to intentionally engage, we are going to cause damage to our children’s hearts and soul.

      Ashley and I suggested the following to help you on this engagement journey:

      1. Keep a basket of books close to the sofa and say YES to reading to your children.
      2. Set a time every day to check social media so that you are not looking on your phone all day long.
      3. Be present.
      4. Participate in family activities (the bowling story).
      5. Ask each child three, open-ended questions every day!

        6. You won’t regret investing in your children’s emotional well -being. Investing when they are young, will pay off during those teen and early adult years.

        The post The Damage of Disengaging appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

        29 min
      6. Surviving Summer with Ashley Smoot

        Surviving Summer

        Thank you to our episode sponsor, CTC Math.

        Well, it was the week of July 4th and summer is in full swing. Boat rides at the lake, sun in the fun at the pool, cookouts, and fireworks. What makes those events even more fun is one of your besties coming in town to celebrate with you.

        Ashley and I had a blast hanging out and we decided that we had some thoughts on surviving summer that we wanted to share!

        1. Have a flexible routine. If you are like me, the strict schedule goes out the window the minute school is out. Well, let’s be honest, I am not a strict schedule kind of mom. However, we do have tighter routines in the school year, especially bedtime. With four teenagers and a tween at home, sleep is often overlooked in our home. I have to encourage my kids to keep on a decent routine or everyone will be walking around like zombies.

        2. Don’t focus on the serious academics during the summer. Take this time to learn a new hobby together, Help your child learn about a topic they have been asking about, read fun books, draw/ paint. Enjoy the FUN in the summer!

        3. Find time for YOU. Summer months are make alone time challenging. However, alone time is very needed for moms taking care of children all day. Hire a sitter, swap off with a friend, ask your hubby to help you… do whatever it takes to get a few minutes to yourself on a regular basis.

        Have fun! Give your children (and yourself) permission to discover, explore and have a sense of wonder!!!

        Find a way to #sayyes today.

        Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

        Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at
        The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

         

        The post Surviving Summer with Ashley Smoot appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

        20 min
      7. Top Ten Things Your Preschooler Wants You to Know | Replay

        Tomorrow, I get to share my passion for preschoolers with about 100 preschool teachers. I am sharing with them the Top Ten Things Preschooler Want You to Know. I thought you might enjoy hearing this list, as well.

        Sponsored by CTCMath.com

        #10 –Just because I use potty talk does not mean I have to go potty.

        When I child calls you poopy head, simply say something like, “What? I have poopy on my head. Nope, I don’t think I have poopy on my head.” Children use potty talk to get the attention of others. Once they realize that their words don’t shock you, they won’t use them as often.

        #9 – Just because I can hold a pencil and spell my name does not mean that I am ready to read and write.

        If I begin counting in Spanish…. Uno, Dos, Tres, etc…. you might assume I speak Spanish? I don’t. Just as counting in Spanish does not mean I speak Spanish, holding a pencil and spelling their own name, does not mean a child is ready to read and write. Reading predictable books, Reading quality books, asking good questions, journaling, making books, recognizing that words have meanings, inventive writing, scribbling, and manipulatives all help prepare a child for reading when it is time (somewhere between 5-8).

        #8 –Children need variety when they are outside.

        Many children need to run, jump, climb, and ride when they are outside. However, some need to be on a blanket with a book or building blocks. Offer them a variety!

        #7 – There is more to forgiveness than “I’m Sorry!”

        In the early childhood world, it is often said – “Don’t force a child to say I am sorry.” However, rarely is an option given. How should we handle those hits, ugly words, and moments of anger? The goal is to help children understand that their actions have consequences. What they do impacts other people. When they hit their friend, their friend is hurt. When they say unkind things, their friend is hurt. Children should be encouraged to use their words and express their feelings.

        #6 – She is not invited to my birthday party.

        Preschoolers are trying to figure out who they are, what they like, and how to establish boundaries. This is an important time for teachers to help children put their words to their emotions. This is a gift we can give children. We would all say that we want adults that can work out problems and strife in their relationships. This needs to start early. Just like #7, helping children express how harsh words make them feel will them in the long run.

        #5 – We learn through the process and not the product.

        It is in the process of discovery, experience, and wonder that children learn. When we focus on an end result, we often miss the actual lesson of the process.

        #4 – Please listen, we have something to say.

        We can learn about children’s needs, stresses, developmental areas, etc… if we will take the time to listen to their stories, their pretend play, their questions, etc… If we don’t give them time during the small moments in their life, they will not give us time when the big topics arise.

        #3-We need to experience to explore a topic.

        “Being a kid is dirty, messy, noisy work. It is in the experience that we actually understand the topic. Whatever we hope to teach children about, the brain needs to experience through the senses. It is in the touching, smelling, hearing, tasting, and seeing that the brain builds synapses.

        #2 – We are ALL different.

        Honor who your child is! Our goal as a parent is to help a child become who they were already meant to be.

        #1 – MEMORIES will be made!

        Bottom Line, what do you want children to remember in 5, 10, 15, 20 years? What impact do you want to have on them?

        Find a way to #sayyes today.

        Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!

         

         CTC Math — Check out Unlimited Access today!

         

        The post Top Ten Things Your Preschooler Wants You to Know | Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

        22 min
      8. Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes

        Special Replay: Even Second-Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes

        Sponosred by CTC Math.

        Episode #4

        Do second-generation homeschoolers make mistakes? As I travel across the country, I am fortunate to meet some amazing people. Two of those I have met along the way are Mike and Jessica Somerville with Tapestry of Grace. Recently, I met up with Mike and Jessica at the Great Homeschool Conventions in Fort Worth, TX. Mike and Jessica Somerville are homeschool graduates that are now homeschooling their three beautiful daughters. If you are like me, you assume that they must be the PERFECT homeschooling family.

        However, in this podcast, they share some lessons they have already learned from mistakes already made. You don’t want to miss this time together.

         

        After you listen, please take a moment and click on the review button in iTunes to write a review. Thank you so much!!!

         

        You’ve got this,

        Kathy

         

         

        Show Notes for Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes
        Ctcmath.com
        0:00
        Meeting the coolest people.
        2:13
        Learning to say yes to reading.
        5:26
        Set a shared vision and flexible vision.
        11:21
        Lesson 2: Don’t panic.
        14:11
        Make the right curriculum choices in the early years.
        16:52
        Where to start with homeschooling?
        23:12
        The importance of having a plan.
        25:08
        Space is the final frontier.
        28:45
        Find and read good books on homeschooling.
        34:22
        We’re not working for them.
        37:36

         

        This podcast is sponsored by CTC Math
        Homeschoolers – 1/2 Price after FREE TRIAL. Click the link to get started.
        Enjoy Even Second-Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes? Try these podcasts!

         

        How to Homeschool: Practical Tips and Advice to Launch

        Homeschooling with Vision and Purpose

        The post Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

        48 min
      9. Are you a good guest? (Replay)

        Many of you will be traveling with young kids during the holidays. My friend, Ashley will be traveling too. She and I had a great chat today about traveling with young kids and tips for being remembered as a good guest.

        Thanks to NowProgams for sponsoring this episode.

        1. Make a phone call to the host family. Ask if you need to bring high chairs/portable cribs/ sleeping bags, etc. Also, ask if any special clothes will be needed for events happening during your visit.
        2. Pack some activities in Ziploc bags for the car ride and trip. Blocks, cars, animals, puzzles, books, crayons, stickers and paper work great!
        3. Discuss with your spouse who will put kids to bed each night so that each of you get some “adult” time on your trip.
        4. Ask for the tentative meal schedule and inform hostess of any scheduling conflicts your family has, so everyone can plan.
        5. Ask before doing. Ask about the house rules (no shoes on carpet, no eating in family room, etc…) and let your kids know these up front. Just because you have certain rules at your house doesn’t mean your host family will have the same rules.
        6. Keep your space picked up. Even if you don’t make your bed at home, it is good manners to make your bed, daily when visiting others.
        7. If children are disruptive, remove them from the situation. Very few children suddenly start behaving again after a big meltdown. Often this is due to lack of sleep and extra sugar during the holidays.
        8. Take your host a small token of appreciation (wine, candle, loaf of bread, etc…) and a handwritten note.
        9. Ask what needs to be done with dirty linens. It is standard etiquette to take sheets off bed, fold them and put them on the end of the bed and remake the bed. However, not every host wants that done. Asking is always best.

          10. 10.Leave things better than you found them.

          Visiting others does not have to be stressful. Preparation should make things easier on you and your host family.

          “A Year of Playing Skillfully is the most beautiful, inspiring curriculum I could have imagined and three weeks into our pre-K year, I have fallen completely in love.“ – Meghann

           

          The post Are you a good guest? (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

          30 min
        10. Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes

          Special Replay: Even Second-Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes
          Episode #4

          Do second-generation homeschoolers make mistakes? As I travel across the country, I am fortunate to meet some amazing people. Two of those I have met along the way are Mike and Jessica Somerville with Tapestry of Grace. Recently, I met up with Mike and Jessica at the Great Homeschool Conventions in Fort Worth, TX. Mike and Jessica Somerville are homeschool graduates that are now homeschooling their three beautiful daughters. If you are like me, you assume that they must be the PERFECT homeschooling family.

          However, in this podcast, they share some lessons they have already learned from mistakes already made. You don’t want to miss this time together.

           

          After you listen, please take a moment and click on the review button in iTunes to write a review. Thank you so much!!!

           

          You’ve got this,

          Kathy

           

           

          Show Notes for Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes
          Ctcmath.com
          0:00
          Meeting the coolest people.
          2:13
          Learning to say yes to reading.
          5:26
          Set a shared vision and flexible vision.
          11:21
          Lesson 2: Don’t panic.
          14:11
          Make the right curriculum choices in the early years.
          16:52
          Where to start with homeschooling?
          23:12
          The importance of having a plan.
          25:08
          Space is the final frontier.
          28:45
          Find and read good books on homeschooling.
          34:22
          We’re not working for them.
          37:36

           

          This podcast is sponsored by CTC Math
          Homeschoolers – 1/2 Price after FREE TRIAL. Click the link to get started.
          Enjoy Even Second-Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes? Try these podcasts!

           

          How to Homeschool: Practical Tips and Advice to Launch

          Homeschooling with Vision and Purpose

          The post Even Second Generation Homeschoolers Make Mistakes appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

          48 min
        11. Special Replay: Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers

          I often get asked how to deal with NO and MINE in toddler world. I see them both as positive words for this age. Toddlers are realizing that they are indeed human and separate from their parents. Isn’t what we hope all of our children realize! Up until this point someone has made all the decisions for them and they FINALLY have a voice. NO, they don’t want peas for dinner. NO, they don’t want to take a bath. NO, they don’t want to go to bed. I bet some toddlers are sooooo excited that they can finally state their opinion. ON this episode, we will talk about this world of toddlers and the many reasons that no and mine are their favorite words. It really is a good thing.

          Also in this episode, I will quickly address some other toddler topics… potty training, biting, and pitching fits. I know for many parents, this toddler stage is challenging. I often suggest that parents try and approach this time with a lighthearted spirit. I always encourage gentle, playful parenting whenever possible, especially during the young years.

          Find a way to #sayyes today.

          Thanks to CTCMath.com as our sponsor! 

          Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

          Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

          Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at
          The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

          The post Special Replay: Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

          17 min
        12. Special Replay: Creating Inviting Spaces in Your Homeschool with Your Little Ones
          Special Replay | Creating Inviting Spaces for Your Homeschool for your Little Ones

           

          When my sweet friend, Misty sent me a Marco Polo (a cool video app) asking my opinion on her child’s playroom, I thought it would be a good idea to share my thoughts with all of you on creating inviting spaces for your little ones!

          Everyone is worthy of feeling as if they belong, especially our children and most definitely in their own home. Before you begin designing an inviting space for your children, I suggest you get on your hands and knees and crawl around your home. YEP, literally get on your hands and knees. Spaces look so different from a child’s eye level. Ask yourself, how do things look and feel from that level. Are there enough “small” areas for your children to work, play, discover and explore?

           

          Work, An Element of Inviting Spaces in Your Homeschool

          Children need small ways to contribute to the family. They need work. Create spaces for their belongings on their level. Have a drawer for their cups, plates, utensils, and special cooking items. Have a bucket with basic cleaning supplies and cloths. Place hooks low enough so that children can hang up their own coats. Creating good habits at a young age pay off.

          Play, Building Relationships through Ideas

          Children are meant to play. How easy is it to say YES to their ideas for play? Less is definitely more in this area. Children do not need 20 containers full of toys in a playroom. During the early years it is likely that everything that is in a container will end up dumped on the floor, all at once. Buy quality toys and items that inspire open-ended play. This is more engaging for the child. I suggest you keep it basic. Some quality blocks, some arts and crafts materials, something that inspires pretend play (dress up, kitchen, baby dolls, etc..) and a cozy corner with books. Put everything else in a large plastic bin and keep it for a month. During that month, move anything your child asks for into a different bin. Whatever is left in the original bin after a month, donate.

          Discover and Explore, The Great Outdoors

          Kids need permission to get outside in search of discovery and exploration. Do you have a space for them to do that? Do you have materials such as nature journals, pencils, binoculars, and bird/flower books to inspire them? Keeping these type of items handy will help you say yes!

          Creating inviting spaces is worth the time and effort! Get down on your hands and knees and start crawling around your space today!

           

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          Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

          The post Special Replay: Creating Inviting Spaces in Your Homeschool with Your Little Ones appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

          17 min

        About The Real Kathy Lee

        From the publisher's feed

        The REAL Kathy Lee is an honest podcast for REAL moms.  It’s where we talk about real life… real motherhood. Topics will include helicopter parenting, how to really connect with your children,…