Vintage Homeschool Moms

Homeschooling has shaped our family for more than 32 years. If recent online criticism has left you wondering whether home education is still worth exploring, this episode walks through the noise, the solid research, and the everyday fruit many families see

Homeschooling began for me with questions, doubts, and a lot of prayer—just like many of you listening to Vintage Homeschool Moms.

Lately, a wave of strong negative opinions has circulated, claiming home education is easier for parents, academically weak, or even harmful. In this episode, we look at those claims side-by-side with peer-reviewed data, long-term outcomes, and the lived experience of raising five children who are now adults.

You will walk away knowing what the research actually shows, how family values and closeness grow under home education, and five practical steps you can take if you are considering the path.

Two podcasters on a recent show shared strong opinions against homeschooling. One called it “trickle-down stupidity.” Another said she could not think of many good things about it, suggested many parents choose it because it is easier, and even used the phrase “child abuse” in comments. A caller criticized parents who had struggled in school themselves yet now teach their own children.

Those statements spread quickly. Parents, researchers, and public officials pointed out the lack of data behind the claims. Blanket statements can sound convincing in the moment, yet they often rest more on personal feeling than careful study. Comments under the original post told a different story—families with advanced degrees, solid careers, and lasting success.

Making sweeping negative statements without evidence is risky when solid research already exists. A systematic review published in the Peabody Journal of Education (Ray, Hoelzle & Pietersma, 2026) examined only peer-reviewed and representative-sample studies on homeschooling outcomes. The findings stand in clear contrast to the recent criticisms:

These patterns appear across a wide range of families—different income levels, parental education backgrounds, and ethnic groups. Homeschool students regularly participate in community activities, sports, church groups, and service. In many organizations they make up the majority of volunteers simply because they tend to be available.

Research also indicates homeschoolers tend to internalize their family’s values at higher rates and show greater political tolerance in the available studies. Dr. Brian Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute summarized the contrast well: the recent podcast remarks offered prejudice in place of evidence. The data simply do not support claims of widespread academic or social failure.

I have lived the daily reality. Homeschooling has never been perfect. There were seasons of exhaustion, curriculum that flopped, and moments when I wondered if we should try something else. While raising young children I started Media Angels, spoke at conferences, wrote curriculum, and helped manage my husband’s business. The kids packed books, looked at blueprints, lived through a new house and two remodels, fished in the pond, and once escaped school to watch videos while I hosted webinars (a fun fact I learned only after we finished our journey!).

Looking at my five children as adults, I see two who are self-employed, two in solid careers, three college graduates (one summa cum laude and two magna cum laude), and one serving in the military. Two are building families of their own—one already homeschools and the other plans to. They learned how to learn, how to work independently, and how to hold onto the values we practiced at home. They love the Lord and attend church regularly. That personal track record lines up with the broader research on adult outcomes. Homeschool graduates enter college at rates similar to or higher than their peers and often succeed there. Many develop strong habits of lifelong learning and community involvement.

One of the strongest reasons parents choose home education is the ability to pass on a coherent worldview and moral foundation. Most homeschooled children are part of their parents’ adult discussions. They hear conversations about character, news, and decisions. When we purchased a new car, my five-year-old offered options from the back seat!

Whether your family seeks to protect certain values and character traits, the home becomes the primary classroom for what matters most. Faith is passed on in a way that is appealing and makes sense. If it does not, your kids are sure to ask questions that may surprise you. Institutional settings often pull children in many directions. At home the direction can stay clear and consistent with your family’s beliefs and priorities.

Daily life together—meals, lessons, chores, field trips, and shared projects—builds bonds that are hard to replicate when children spend most of their waking hours elsewhere. Parents and siblings learn one another’s strengths and struggles in real time. Many families report deeper relationships and a stronger sense of belonging as a direct result. My adult children still seek each other out. One son once spent four hours visiting his sister, her husband, and their newborn simply because he wanted to—not because he had to. That ongoing closeness is one of the lasting gifts of the homeschool years.

Homeschooling lets you tailor the pace, the materials, and the emphasis. You decide where to spend the time. You can highlight a subject a child loves, slow down when mastery is needed, and weave faith, character, or your family’s guiding principles into every subject. The goal is not merely covering content; it is forming a whole person who can think, work, and live with purpose.

We wanted our children to be curious about the world and amazed at the glory of God in their studies. We incorporated gratitude into evening prayers—taking turns stating what we were thankful for. When grandchildren spend the night they know the routine. Even extended family has been shaped by those small, consistent practices. The legacy continues.

Whether or not someone personally agrees with homeschooling, it remains the legal right of parents who choose it, provided they follow their state’s requirements. Those requirements vary. Some states ask for simple notification; others for testing or portfolio review. The freedom to direct a child’s education is protected. Parents who take that responsibility seriously already do the work of meeting those standards. We care about our children in a way that no educator ever could—I taught in the school system for two years and still saw that difference clearly.

If you are thinking about homeschooling, start with prayer (or quiet reflection), research your state’s laws, talk with experienced families, and look at the actual data rather than the loudest opinions. The recent negative comments highlight how easily stereotypes can replace evidence. The research and the lived experience of many families point in a different direction: home education, done with care and commitment, produces strong academic results, healthy social development, and adults who thrive.

Here are five practical steps you can take right now:

You do not have to be perfect. You simply have to be present, willing to learn alongside your children, and rooted in the values that matter most to your family.

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Is homeschooling academically weaker than public school? No. A 2026 systematic review of peer-reviewed studies found that in 62% of the studies, homeschooled students outperformed their institutional-school peers. Typical standardized-test scores sit 15–25 percentile points higher.

Do homeschooled kids miss out on socialization? Research shows the opposite pattern. In 64% of the studies examined, social and emotional outcomes were clearly positive. Homeschooled students participate widely in community activities, sports, church groups, and service.

What about long-term success in adulthood? Over half the studies on adult outcomes found better results for those who had been home-educated; most of the rest showed no significant difference. College entry rates are similar or higher, and many graduates report strong life satisfaction and value retention.

Isn’t homeschooling just for parents who struggled in school themselves? Parents come from every educational background. The research patterns hold across income levels, parental education, and ethnic groups. What matters is commitment and following state requirements.

How do I know if my state allows it and what is required? Every state has its own rules—some simple notification, others testing or portfolio review. Look up your state’s official education department website or contact a local support group for the current handbook.

What if I feel overwhelmed just thinking about starting? Start small. Research the law, connect with other families, write down your “why,” sample a few resources, and try a short trial period. You do not have to have every detail figured out on day one.

Can I still pass on my family’s faith and values? Yes. Daily life at home makes the home the primary classroom for worldview, character, and faith. Children hear the conversations, ask the questions, and see the values lived out consistently.

This episode is for educational and encouragement purposes only. Homeschooling laws and requirements vary by state and can change. Always verify current official rules with your state’s education department or a qualified advisor before making decisions.

Media Angels Suggestion Two resources that pair well with this conversation:

Find both and more at MediaAngels.com/store.

Related Listening

The post Should You Consider Homeschooling? appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Confused by ClassWallet, ESAs, and all the “school choice” headlines? In this episode, Gina Steffy joins Felice Gerwitz to break down—in plain English—how these state education funds actually work, what the online state resources really tell you, and how homeschool families can decide wisely.

“School choice” money is everywhere in the headlines, but almost nobody explains the plumbing behind it. What is ClassWallet? Is it the same thing as an ESA? Where do you find the real rules for your state—and how do you avoid the traps? In this conversation on Vintage Homeschool Moms, Felice sits down with Gina to demystify Education Savings Accounts, the ClassWallet platform, and the online state resources every homeschool family should bookmark. You’ll walk away knowing the difference between the program and the platform, what these funds can (and can’t) buy, how accepting money can change your legal status, and the smart-choice questions to ask before you apply. No legal jargon—just a clear, balanced map so you can make the right call for your own family.

If you’ve spent five minutes in a homeschool Facebook group lately, you’ve seen the questions: What is ClassWallet? Is it free money? Can I use it for curriculum? Does my state have it? The “school choice” headlines are everywhere, but almost no one explains how the money actually works—and that’s exactly where families get tripped up.

In my recent conversation with Felice on Vintage Homeschool Moms, we pulled back the curtain on Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), the ClassWallet platform, and the online state resources every homeschool family should know about. This companion guide gives you the plain-English version you can come back to anytime. (Quick disclaimer up front: I’m a homeschool mom, not a lawyer or tax advisor—so treat this as a friendly map, not legal advice, and always confirm your own state’s official handbook.)

Here’s the single most important idea in this whole topic: ClassWallet is not the funding program. It’s just the tool.

Think of ClassWallet as the debit card and online marketplace that several states use to move education money and track how it’s spent. The state decides who qualifies, how much you get, and what you’re allowed to buy. ClassWallet is simply the plumbing that gets approved dollars from the state to the vendor.

So when someone says, “I got approved for ClassWallet!”—what they really mean is they were accepted into their state’s ESA (or a similar program), and ClassWallet is the platform they’ll use to spend it. Some states use ClassWallet; others use different platforms entirely (Florida’s program, for example, runs on a system called EMA). The tool varies. The principle doesn’t.

An Education Savings Account (ESA) is the program: the state sets aside a pot of money—often somewhere around $7,000 to $8,000 per student—that you can spend on approved education expenses. ClassWallet is the platform some states use to manage that pot.

Getting this straight matters, because the rules you have to follow come from the ESA program and your state’s law—not from ClassWallet. The platform just enforces what the state already decided.

Once you’re approved and funded, there are generally three ways to spend:

1. The Marketplace. The simplest option. You shop from pre-approved vendors inside the ClassWallet marketplace, and payment happens automatically from your account—no out-of-pocket cost.

2. Direct Pay (“Pay a Vendor”). You request that ClassWallet pay an approved provider directly—say, a tutor or a curriculum company. The provider may need to be registered or approved first.

3. Reimbursement. You pay out of pocket, then submit receipts to be paid back. This carries the most risk: if the purchase is denied, you’re stuck with the bill. That’s why the golden rule is never buy first and hope later.

The internet is full of blog posts (including this one!) that give you the lay of the land. But when it’s time to actually apply or spend, go to the source. Here’s the hierarchy I recommend:

One caution: ignore outdated articles. This landscape is moving so fast that a post from even a year ago may list the wrong amount, the wrong deadline, or a program that’s since changed.

It varies by state, but ESA funds commonly cover curriculum, tutoring, online courses, standardized testing, educational materials, therapies for students with special needs, and sometimes technology. Every program publishes an approved-expense guide and an approved-vendor list, and here’s the catch: “educational” in your mind doesn’t always mean “reimbursable” in theirs. Check the guide first, and get pre-approval for anything unusual or expensive.

This is the part families most often miss, and it’s the part worth slowing down for.

Legal status. In many states, accepting the money changes your student’s legal category. While in Arizona, an ESA student signs a contract and is not a statutory homeschooler. In Florida, to join the Personalized Education Program you actually have to terminate your home-education program and become a “PEP student.” You’re still teaching at your own kitchen table—but the rules you answer to have changed.

Testing and reporting. Depending on the state, you may owe an annual norm-referenced test, a written learning plan, attendance or portfolio records, or all of the above.

Records. Keep an audit folder from day one: award letters, account agreements, invoices, receipts, and proof of payment. The families who run into trouble are almost always the ones who spent freely and kept nothing.

This is a personal decision, and reasonable homeschoolers land in different places.

On one side, these funds are real, meaningful help—especially for families on a tight budget or those covering therapies and specialized services. On the other side, groups like HSLDA caution that government money can come with strings, and that a funded student is a distinct legal category rather than a protected independent homeschooler; they’d rather see tax credits, where you simply keep more of your own money. Other groups, like THSC, believe a well-designed ESA with strong legal protections can help without eroding freedom.

My honest take? Know exactly what you’re trading. If the trade-offs work for your family, an ESA can be a genuine blessing. If they make you uneasy, there is no shame in keeping your independence.

Want the full picture for your state? Download our free 50-State Homeschool Funding Guide—a plain-English map of what’s available, who qualifies, and what to watch out for in all 50 states. Then head to your state’s official page to confirm the current details before you apply.

And if you haven’t yet, listen to the full conversation with Felice on Vintage Homeschool Moms for the stories and nuance behind these tips.

Is ClassWallet free money for homeschoolers? Not exactly. ClassWallet is the platform that manages state ESA funds, and while the money is real and helpful, it comes with rules: an approved-expense list, possible testing or reporting, and in many states a change to your legal status. It’s better to think of it as a state education allowance with a rulebook attached than as “free money.”

What’s the difference between ClassWallet and an ESA? An ESA (Education Savings Account) is the state program that provides the money. ClassWallet is the online platform some states use to distribute and track that money. The state sets the rules; ClassWallet just enforces them.

What can I buy with ClassWallet funds? Commonly curriculum, tutoring, online courses, standardized tests, educational materials, therapies, and sometimes technology—but only from approved vendors and within your state’s approved-expense guide. Always check the guide and get pre-approval before large or unusual purchases.

Does taking an ESA mean I’m no longer a homeschooler? In many states, yes—your legal status changes from independent homeschooler to program participant. Arizona and Florida are two examples where accepting funds changes your statutory status. Read your state’s definition before enrolling.

Where do I find the real rules for my state? Start with your state Department of Education’s ESA page and the current program handbook—that’s the source of truth. Use national sites like EdChoice and NCSL for context, but confirm amounts, deadlines, and eligible expenses on the official page before you apply or buy.

Educational content only—not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Program rules, award amounts, vendors, and deadlines change frequently; always verify the current official handbook for your state before applying or purchasing.

The post ClassWallet and Online State Resources — and How They Work appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Help for parents who are considering homeschooling a struggling learner!

Do you have a child who works hard yet still struggles with reading, comprehension, spelling, letter reversals, or focus? You are not alone. Many Christian homeschool families face the quiet frustration of watching an intelligent child fall behind or lose confidence.

In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, I sit down with an old friend, Steve Shapiro of The Learning Connection. Years ago I heard him speak on a Christian radio station. I was so excited I pulled over to a safe spot, called him from my phone, and ordered his learning kit for my own struggling learner. Later I introduced him to the leaders at the Florida Parent Educators Association (FPEA) conference in Orlando, where I had spoken for many years. Steve quickly became a favorite speaker among homeschool parents.

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Steve Shapiro. I first called him over twenty-five years ago! Later I met him in person and I was able to give a glowing recommendation for his home kit. Steve is now semi-retired, yet he still believes so strongly in the tools God has given him that he wants to share them with a new generation of parents.

Steve is a specialized learning disability therapist and educator with more than 40 years of experience helping thousands of children and teens who struggle with reading and learning difficulties. He holds a master’s degree in education with undergraduate work in special education. Early in his career, he discovered that the typical academic approaches were not enough. The underlying root problems were not being addressed.

He has written two books: The Learning Connection and Falling Through the Cracks: Why Intelligent Students Struggle in School. He has spoken extensively across the country, including at FPEA and many other homeschool gatherings.

Steve later met Dr. Guthrie, an optometrist in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who spent his career researching why so many bright students fail to achieve. In many cases, the root issue was not a need for glasses but an underlying vision processing weakness. These children could not properly process what they read. When the two eyes do not work together to process visual information, the brain cannot retain it well. This often shows up as:

Together Steve and Dr. Guthrie developed what is now The Learning Connection—a therapy program designed to overcome reading and learning difficulties at the root. Most recently Steve created a home computer therapy kit that includes the same tools he used in his office practice for over 40 years. He offers a free home evaluation and a free, no-obligation phone consultation for any family.

Website: thelearningconnection.myshopify.com

These questions open the door to practical hope. Steve explains why traditional methods often miss the mark and how addressing vision processing and related foundational skills can change a child’s trajectory—especially in the flexible, one-on-one setting of a Christian home.

Homeschooling gives us the freedom to slow down, observe carefully, and meet a child exactly where he or she is. When a child struggles, the first step is often identifying whether the difficulty is purely academic or rooted in how the brain processes information. Steve’s work reminds us that intelligent children can still fall through the cracks when underlying processing weaknesses go unaddressed.

The free evaluation and phone consultation make it possible for families anywhere to explore whether this approach might help. The home therapy kit brings professional-level tools into the living room so parents can work with their children at a sustainable pace.

If this conversation encourages you, continue with these related episodes:

While you strengthen foundational learning skills, consider these practical tools from the Media Angels store:

Browse more at MediaAngels.com/store.

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You are not alone. With prayer, careful observation, and the right tools, many struggling learners begin to thrive. Steve Shapiro’s decades of experience and heart for families offer a clear next step for any parent who wants to understand the root of the struggle and move forward with confidence.

*This link is an Amazon affiliate link and I may earn a small commission through your purchase.

This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.

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The post Homeschooling a Struggling Learner: Real Help When Nothing’s Working appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Updated for the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse. This episode first aired around an earlier eclipse, and the wonder is just as real today. On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will pass over Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, while families across the northern United States (from Alaska to North Carolina) will see a partial eclipse—so plan for safe viewing rather than totality here at home. For a full family viewing guide with eye-safety tips and a simple pinhole-projector activity, see our Solar Eclipse 2026 homeschool guide.

Every day is the best day, or it can be if you have the mindset that you are looking for miracles in your life. In 2026, a total solar eclipse is just one of the exciting things happening in your world. How can we keep the momentum going? In this podcast, Felice shares the idea of finding the gems in your life and celebrating them with your family.

Visit Mediaangels.com for immediate downloads such as Character Planners,  Checklist Planners, and, coming soon, the entire set of Organize-IT planners.

So, is this going to be your best year ever? If you said, “Yes!” that is great, but if you said, “No.” then Why not? Take a moment to consider your answer.

I think we can make this the best year. Even if you’re listening to this in January in March, or maybe even in December, you can begin each day anew. The first thing is our mindset. And, it is catching. If we are enthusiastic, our kids will be enthusiastic. (Tell 1/2 sheet of paper and a pencil – pop quiz).

So, our attitude is important, but so is our ability to find those gems in our lives that are often overlooked. It doesn’t take money, but it does take research. This year, there are some awe-inspiring events. However, we will focus on one that is sure to catch the headlines, and that is the Solar Eclipse.

What is a Solar Eclipse:

A total solar eclipse is something that happens very rarely, and when it does happen, it is something many people will be excited about seeing, some traveling to the locations where they can get the best view. A total solar eclipse is when the moon passes over the sun in such a way and angle that it blocks the sunlight from our view.  First, let me warn as as you already know (and please let your children know) that it is always dangerous to look at the sun. Never look at the sun!

The solar eclipse will not happen again for another twenty years, so it’s really exciting to be aware of this one. The solar eclipse or the total solar eclipse is going to happen on August 12, 2026, and the next one won’t happen until August 23, 2044.

The shielding of the sun by the moon moving, what looks like over the top, will show the outer part of the sun, which is called the corona.

That is what I wanted to know, and I learned that during an annular eclipse, it is only safe to view it with protective glasses because you can still see a portion of the sun, and looking at the sun, as we’ve already established, is dangerous. So, you can see a ring of the sun around the moon. However, a total eclipse means that the moon completely covers the sun (totally) and hides the sun from view so just the corona or outer edges show.

You will want to:

It is fun to study things that are happening in our world.

Resources for Solar Eclipse:

Eclipses in 2026

Interactive Map for the eclipse of 2026 here.

This is a wonderful opportunity to study the stars and add it to your homeschool curriculum. And, as Psalm 19: summarizes so beautifully – “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Amen! enjoy.

Bring more wonder to your homeschool

New to the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network? Grab our free Christian Homeschool Starter Kit for encouragement and practical help, then tune in to Vintage Homeschool Moms for faith-filled inspiration each week.

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The post Total Solar Eclipse 2026: Turn It Into an Unforgettable Homeschool Lesson appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🌿 This episode is proudly sponsored by Eden’s Table — a Christ-centered herbalism curriculum for K-5 homeschool families. One plant a week, woven through Bible, science, history, art, and Latin.

Try a free week →

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Teach science with confidence using hands-on experiments your kids will remember.

Replay Notice: This episode originally aired several years ago and is being shared again because the teaching is still relevant. Please note that any promotional offers, coupon codes, pricing, websites, or product availability mentioned during the episode may no longer be valid in 2026.

If the thought of teaching homeschool science feels intimidating, you’re not alone. Many homeschool parents worry most about high school science, especially labs and experiments.

The good news? You don’t need to be a scientist to raise curious learners.

In this replay, Felice Gurwitz shares practical strategies for making science engaging, hands-on, and enjoyable—from kindergarten through high school. Drawing from decades of homeschooling five children, she explains why science isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about encouraging observation, curiosity, and critical thinking.

Whether you’re teaching elementary science or preparing your teen for biology or chemistry, these tried-and-true ideas will help you build confidence.

You’ll discover:

Science isn’t simply a collection of facts. It’s learning to ask questions, observe carefully, research possibilities, test ideas, and draw conclusions.

Children learn science best when they’re encouraged to investigate rather than simply memorize.

Felice recommends focusing on five essentials:

Many useful science tools can be collected over time, including:

Organizing these supplies into labeled bins makes experiments much easier to complete.

One of the biggest misconceptions about science is that every experiment should “work.”

Sometimes the greatest learning happens when results are unexpected. Those moments teach children how real scientists think, troubleshoot, and revise ideas.

One of Felice’s favorite stories is about her daughter attempting to stabilize hydrogen peroxide for a science fair project.

Instead of dismissing the idea, she allowed her daughter to investigate—and the experience became a lesson in creativity, persistence, and scientific thinking.

Sometimes our children’s curiosity takes them farther than we imagine.

Every homeschool family learns differently.

Some families thrive with textbooks.

Others enjoy unit studies, experiments, projects, and discussion.

The goal isn’t choosing the “perfect” curriculum—it’s helping your children understand how science works and encouraging them to think critically.

Field trips, museums, nature studies, experiments, dissections, and cooperative science labs all give students opportunities to connect concepts with real-world experiences.

Those experiences often become the lessons children remember for years.

Yes. Curiosity, preparation, and a willingness to learn alongside your children are often more valuable than having formal science training.

Hands-on experiences strengthen understanding and help students retain concepts. Many labs can be completed at home with inexpensive materials.

Virtual labs can be helpful, especially when budget or logistics make hands-on work difficult. Many homeschool families combine both virtual and physical experiments.

The best curriculum is one your family will consistently use. Some families prefer textbooks, while others learn best through unit studies and experiments.

The scientific method teaches observation, logical thinking, problem-solving, and how to evaluate evidence—skills that extend well beyond science.

Teaching science at home doesn’t require a laboratory or an advanced degree.

With curiosity, simple materials, and a willingness to learn alongside your children, science can become one of the most rewarding subjects in your homeschool.

Sometimes the best lessons don’t happen when an experiment goes exactly as planned—they happen when your children begin asking better questions.

Author and publisher, Felice Gerwitz of Media Angels, Inc. will discuss tried and true science labs to incorporate science labs within the home – this presentation is taken from her book, Teaching Science and Having Fun.

The post Science Labs That Actually Work at Home appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.

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VINTAGE HOMESCHOOL MOMS  •  EPISODE 435

Math the Easy Way: 7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages

with guest Pat Murray of CTC Math  |  Hosted by Felice Gurwitz

About This Episode

Does your child love math or dread it? In this episode, Felice Gurwitz sits down with Pat Murray — a math teacher and coach of more than 36 years and the founder of CTC Math — to share seven practical, doable tips for teaching math to children of every age. From short, clear explanations and the power of rote learning to smart lesson sequencing and avoiding frustration, Pat unpacks what actually works after decades in the classroom and at home. He also serves up a couple of memory “magic tricks” (including a clever way to keep circle formulas straight) that make math genuinely fun.

Whether you have a struggling learner or a strong one who just needs reinforcement, these are ideas you can put to work right away.

Pat Murray has been a math teacher and coach for more than 36 years. The programs and courses he and his company have developed have helped students and families in the tens and hundreds of thousands across more than 72 countries. Pat is the founder of CTC Math, which offers self-paced online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning math. Pat and his wife, Mari, live in Sydney, Australia, and have 10 children and seven grandchildren (soon to be eight).

Are you looking for a new Math Curriculum?

CTCMath specializes in providing online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning. Favorably reviewed in Cathy Duffy’s 102 Top Picks and The Old Schoolhouse Crew Review, the lessons are short and concise to help your children break down concepts and appreciate math in a whole new way!

The lessons are taught the traditional way, not to a “test”.

Each one of the video tutorials is taught by an internationally acclaimed teacher, Pat Murray, who is renowned for teaching math concepts in a simple, easy-to-understand way (and in only a few minutes at a time). Using a multi-sensory approach having the combination of effective graphics and animation synchronized with the voice of a friendly teacher together with practical assessment. This three-pronged attack makes learning so much easier and more effective. Even students who struggled with math are getting fantastic results! And ones who were doing OK before are now doing brilliantly.

Visit ctcmath.com today to start your free trial.

The post 7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.

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How can you teach children the ideals of freedom and economics in a way they will remember? Join your host, Felice Gerwitz, and Daniel Harmon, the Creator and Showrunner of the Tuttle Twins TV Show.

How often do you get a chance to talk to the creator of a television show? Well, today, I sat down with Daniel Harmon, a homeschooled dad of seven. Daniel is the creator and executive producer of the Tuttle Twins TV show. He is the co-founder of Harmon Brothers and Angel Studios. I’m sure many of you recognize that name. It is the studio that produces a favorite among many, The Chosen. Daniel is the father of seven and says the show for them and what he would have wanted as a kid. He claims his kids are his in-house focus group!

As a fan of the Tuttle Twins novels, I purchased several sets for family and friends; it was my pleasure to bring you this interview.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Freedom and Economics Points discussed:

Many believe economics is reserved for someone else to teach. Or it is up to the kids to learn it in higher level learning like college. Yet with the Tuttle Twins, both the book series and the TV show it is something that kids can actually understand. It is put in the context of the principles of freedom of your rights, and it’s not as complicated as it’s made out to be. They overcomplicate it in a way that does a lot of destruction to our economy, but it is not nearly as complicated as some like to make it out to be.

Rights:

You start from a basis. We all have rights, rights to life, to liberty, to property. The things that are enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and in the Constitution. Those rights are defined by economist Frederick Bastia, who wrote the book The Law. These rights are inherent, God-given rights. Kids instinctively know this is true. If they have something that they’ve worked for, you can’t go and take that away from them. That’s unfair, right? That’s their property. 

Freedom of Life:

If someone tries to hurt or kill a person, that is not fair. That’s my right to my life. You can’t take away someone’s life; this does not allow a person to have liberty, the ability to make their own decisions and to pursue their own dreams and passions and things like that. And people can’t also get in the way of that. Then, when you understand that, add economics.

Economics:

A high-level principle is putting policies into place that are beneficial. The policy needs to benefit more than one group. Not only in the short term but needs to benefit all groups in the long term. And kids get that as well. The policy needs to be something that’s not just favoring a given industry or corporation or something similar; it needs to be something that really creates a fair playing field for everyone. 

Freedom, Economics, and Business:

More points discussed:

The post Teaching Kids About Money and Freedom with the Tuttle Twins appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.

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In today’s episode, “Stress Free Summer Learning,” I’ll share easy, flexible tips to keep your kids learning without the stress. From unit studies to outdoor adventures, get ready for a fun, low-key summer of growth!

Summer is a time for relaxation and family memories, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to keep your children’s learning on track. In this episode, I’ll share streamlined homeschool schedules that maintain educational momentum without overwhelming you or your kids. If you’ve listened to this podcast before, welcome back, and you know I only share practical tips that don’t break the bank! If you are new, welcome friend (or soon-to-be friend), and I hope you enjoy some ideas for short lesson plans, including unit studies, outdoor learning, and simple yet impactful activities.

Whether you’re a year-round homeschooler or just sprinkling in some summer learning when the kids are acting bored, this podcast is for you.

Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com

Summer can be a balancing act with vacations and family events. However, research shows that students can lose 20-25% of their reading and math gains over the summer, known as the “summer slide.” A flexible, streamlined schedule keeps kids’ brains engaged without turning summer into a grind.

The key? Flexibility. Short, meaningful activities that fit your family’s rhythm make learning feel like a refreshing summer breeze. Here’s how to make it happen.

Check out this related podcast for more summer inspiration.

Unit studies are a fantastic way to streamline summer learning by diving deep into one topic, for example, oceans, dinosaurs, or space, while covering multiple subjects. For example, an ocean unit study might include:

It can even be hands-on and practical. Playing in a pool or tub with items that sink or float, talking about air bubbles and compression, and asking if anyone is SCUBA certified for a hands-on lesson, or visiting a dive shop.

Unit studies are flexible, interest-driven, and low-prep, making them ideal for summer. They’re perfect for multi-age homeschooling, allowing everyone to learn at their level, and they align well with Christian principles for faith-based learning.

Unit studies make learning feel like an adventure, keeping both you and your kids stress-free!

Outdoor activities boost creativity, reduce stress, and improve focus, according to studies. Nature is a free, open classroom ready for exploration.

Explore our Kids’ Planner for more outdoor activity ideas.

Short activities fit busy summer days and keep kids engaged without feeling overwhelmed. They also leave room for spiritual growth.

These quick bursts keep skills sharp while preserving summer’s joy.

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive. Try these free resources:

Spend a few minutes bookmarking resources at the start of summer. Our Homeschool Success Planner helps organize your ideas.

Streamlined summer learning is about keeping things lightweight and enjoyable. Embrace unit studies, outdoor adventures, short activities, and free resources to maintain momentum without stress. You’ve got this!

Share your favorite summer learning tips in the Vintage Homeschool Moms Facebook group or at ultimateradioshow.com/blog. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your podcast app to help other homeschool families find us.

Thanks to our sponsor for supporting this episode. Until next time, keep homeschooling with joy and confidence. This is Felice Gerwitz, take care, God bless, and I’ll talk to you soon!

Resources from Media Angels: Go deeper with the complete Creation Science for Homeschoolers guide — or explore the Creation Geology Study Guide.

The post Stress-Free Summer Learning: Keep Kids Sharp Without the Fight appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🌿 This episode is proudly sponsored by Eden’s Table — a Christ-centered herbalism curriculum for K-5 homeschool families. One plant a week, woven through Bible, science, history, art, and Latin.

Try a free week →

Show: Vintage Homeschool Moms

Constitutional attorney KrisAnne Hall joins Felice Gerwitz to show homeschool moms how to raise liberty-minded kids, why she walked away from a paycheck to teach the Constitution, and what every parent should know about Common Core and school choice. A timeless replay, updated for 2026.

In this fan-favorite conversation, host Felice Gerwitz sits down with constitutional attorney and homeschool mom KrisAnne Hall. KrisAnne shares the powerful story of how she chose to keep teaching the Constitution even when it cost her a $60,000-a-year government job, and how God provided for her family every step of the way.

Together they talk about why liberty is a Judeo-Christian inheritance worth passing on, why most Americans can’t name the five freedoms in the First Amendment, and how parents — not the government — hold the real responsibility for raising the next generation. KrisAnne also answers listener questions about Common Core, charter and virtual schools, vouchers, and the best way for parents to get up to speed on the Constitution so they can teach it to their kids.

It’s encouraging, challenging, and packed with the kind of “I never thought about it that way” moments KrisAnne is known for.

This episode first aired in 2014, when “Common Core” was the education debate at every co-op meeting and kitchen table. The heart of KrisAnne’s message — that liberty is a gift we steward for our children — hasn’t aged a day. But a few of the headlines have changed, so here’s a quick update so you’re listening with 2026 eyes:

Common Core has largely faded — but the framework lingers. Several states formally repealed and renamed the standards, and roughly two dozen have revised or rebranded them. Here in Florida, Governor DeSantis signed an executive order to eliminate Common Core and replaced it with the B.E.S.T. Standards (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking), phased in beginning the 2021–22 school year, which notably weave civics and the U.S. Constitution through every grade. That said, education analysts point out that many “new” state standards still carry Common Core’s DNA — so KrisAnne’s underlying point about who controls curriculum (and who funds it) is as relevant as ever.

School choice exploded. When this aired, KrisAnne urged caution about vouchers and warned that “where government pays, they will dictate.” Since 2021, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) have become the dominant model, and as of 2026 around 18–19 states offer universal eligibility. Florida now has universal school choice; Louisiana launched its LA GATOR program in 2025; and Texas’s $1 billion ESA program — the largest initial funding cap in history — launches for the 2026–27 school year. As you listen, it’s worth weighing KrisAnne’s “strings attached” caution against the new landscape and deciding where you land for your own family.

Where to find KrisAnne now. She is the founder and president of Liberty First University (online courses from about $20/month at libertyfirstsociety.com), still writes and teaches, and hosts The KrisAnne Hall Show. Her books referenced in this episode — Not a Living, Breathing Document, Bedtime Stories for Budding Patriots, and Essential Stories for Junior Patriots — are still available, along with newer titles like Sovereign Duty and Liberty First: The Path to Restoring America.

(Approximate — adjust the timestamps to match your final audio file.)

“The God that gave us life gave us liberty.” — KrisAnne paraphrasing Thomas Jefferson

“Every liberty that you have, you have to keep. And if you do not know what your liberties are, you don’t even know when they’re gone.”

“The government hasn’t intruded itself into our school system. We’ve invited it.”

“Liberty is not a gift that you purchase for yourself… We purchase liberty for our children.”

“Where government pays, they will dictate.” — KrisAnne on vouchers

KrisAnne Hall

From Media Angels & the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Scripture referenced: 2 Timothy 1:7 · Matthew 6 · the Book of Esther

KrisAnne Hall, JD, is a former state prosecutor and constitutional attorney who left her position rather than stop teaching the original intent of the Constitution. A disabled war veteran, attorney, wife of a pastor, and homeschool mom, she now travels the country teaching the history and application of the Constitution and serves as founder and president of Liberty First University. She is the author of multiple books on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights and host of The KrisAnne Hall Show.

Vintage Homeschool Moms, hosted by author and publisher Felice Gerwitz, encourages, educates, and inspires moms with answers to their most pressing questions — from homeschooling and marriage to parenting and faith — because every moment counts. It’s a production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a homeschool mom who needs to hear it, and leave a review — it helps other families find the show. Visit VintageHomeschoolMoms.com and MediaAngels.com for more.

Disclaimer: Guests share their own views and resources. Felice vets her guests but does not necessarily endorse every statement made by show hosts or guests across the network.

The post How to Raise Kids Who Love the Constitution (with KrisAnne Hall) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time.

Try CTCMath →

Homeschooling can be a wonderful experience, and in this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we discuss the best homeschool tips. We surveyed our listeners. Join me to find out what they advised.

Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math. CTC is a highly rated math curriculum for homeschooled students for grades K-12. The family math package makes it ideal for large families at one low price. Visit the website for more information.

Last week I shared a milestone episode, 500, and the topic was Homeschool Do Overs; this episode is a continuation with a twist; I selected some of the best advice for homeschool moms who answered our survey. While the question centered on the idea of a homeschool do-over, I found that their advice better fit the category of “The Best Homeschool Tips.”

Check out Homeschool Do-OVER here.

During my years of homeschooling, I’ve received the most encouragement from like-minded families. I still consider my past homeschool friends to be among my closest, the reason. They experienced what I experienced; they put aside their goals and aspirations to focus on their relationship with God, their spouse, their children, their home, and their homeschool.

These ladies were faithful, and most continued the homeschool journey throughout high school. Everyone did what was best for their family; my friends are wonderful news. Keep your eyes on what you and your family think is important, and ignore the rest.

I learned that extended family might be well-meaning – yet, we have to decide what is best, which is a good place to start. If you have not taken the time to decide on your family goals, begin there.

As a synopsis of the pages of recommendations and suggestions, I’ve placed them in categories; Faith, Family, Homeschool. I have edited the comments to make them easier to read on-air and kept the names anonymous! If you hear a comment you made on the survey and want to share your name, visit the podcast page at Vintage Homeschool Moms, look for episode 501, Best Homeschool Tips, and leave your comment there!

See if any of these ideas resonate with you!

Faith Tips:

Homeschool Tips:

Family:

There were so many more great ideas; I invite you to listen to episode 500 if you have not already, and I want to thank you for joining me today.

The post The Best Homeschool Tips for a Calmer, More Confident Year appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.