Vintage Homeschool Moms

Vintage Homeschool Moms

Download on the App Store

Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes

  • Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz

    In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we explore why giving children time to think is one of the most important—and most overlooked—skills parents can nurture.

    In a fun flip of the interview seat, Lisa Nehring interviews Felice Gerwitz, founder of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, about how slowing down our responses helps children develop independence, confidence, and strong critical thinking skills.

    Felice explains why constantly rushing to give answers, solve problems, or fill silence can unintentionally limit a child’s ability to reason, process information, and trust their own judgment. Instead, she encourages parents to create space for curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful decision-making.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why children need time to process before responding

    • How open-ended questions support critical thinking

    • The role patience plays in raising independent learners

    • How homeschooling naturally supports deeper thinking

    • Why “thinking time” is not neglect—but intentional parenting

      This episode is especially helpful for homeschooling parents, educators, and families who want to raise thoughtful, capable kids prepared for real-world problem solving. Whether your child is young or nearing adulthood, learning when not to step in can make all the difference.

       

       

       

       

      Popular Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes with Felice Gerwitz

      Homeschool Lifestyle

      Last Minute DIY Tips
      Money Saving Field Trips
      All About Teaching
      Raising Spiritually Strong Kids
      Six Homeschooling Insider Tips
      Best Staycations for Kids
      Avoid Curriculum Pitfalls
      Top 10 Parenting Secrets
      45 Family Date Night Ideas

      Thank you to our sponsor, CTC Math.

      The post Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

      1 hr 3 min
    • Time Management for Kids: Simple Skills That Stick (Special Replay)
      Time Management For Kids – Episode 410 Replay

      Sponsored by CTCMath.com

      What is the one thing you can’t get back? Time. In this episode, we talk about time management for kids and how to learn to take charge of your time. You will be surprised how much time you gain! Another episode just for kids.

      Check out this episode just for kids! 

      1. Kids Making Good Decisions.
      2. Choosing Good Behavior
      3. Family Life 
      4. Books for tweens – Truth Seekers Mystery Series. 

        Are you on time? Always? Sure, it is hard to be on time especially when you think you have lots of time and why should you hurry. Besides everyone will wait for you, right?

        Well, surprise! I bet you will get in trouble if you are late or make your family wait. So, today we are going to discuss time. This is time you can never get back.

        Punctuality means being early or on time. In fact, some people think if you are on time that means you are late.

        What do you think? Do you like being late?

        Do you like waiting for other people?

        Most people have an opinion on this and I am sure this is something you can talk to your family about, but one thing to think about is this. Punctuality has to do with respect. People who are late show think more highly of their time than the time of others. Does this mean you don’t care? Maybe. But more than likely it means you have not given it any thought because once we think of respect, I am sure you think this is important for all people.

        So, the first thing I want you to do is to look at your time. How do you manage your time? Most kids don’t manage their time because they don’t have to. You have parents who tell you when to get up or when it is time to eat. When it is time to do your schoolwork or go to church. We are managed by a family that loves and supports us. But, at some point we need to be responsible for our own time.

        Look at what you like to do. If you could have a day that is all yours to plan what would you do? What does your dream day look like? This may be a topic you want to think about. You may include some of these points: sleeping in or getting up early, eating your favorite foods, watching a movie or reading a book, playing with your friends, going to a park, or maybe a trip to the zoo. Your time would be spent on the things you enjoy. So, let’s look at that list and go to a hobby. A hobby is something you like to do in your spare time. How can you fit this in when your day is filled with the things you have to do? That is what time management is all about. You manage your time so that you can fit in some fun things.

        But, you might say you are busy with school work and chores and you have not time. Hmm… let’s look at this. What do you do when you are busy with school and chores? Are you doing them well and quickly or are you wasting time? If you look at how you spend your time you will earn that while it may be fun to laugh at your brother or sister, or lose a book and have to spend time finding it, or forget that you have an assignment…in the long run you are only hurting yourself.

        So, let’s go through a list:

        1. How do you want to spend your free time?
        2. What can you do to stop wasting time?
        3. What are some things you have to do each day that can be done quicker?
        4. Another surprise is that I am sure your mom or dad will definitely help you to gain more time in your day, because you know what? If you are more productive–that means you get more things done well and quickly, that gives your family more time as well. This means you respect each other, you respect each other’s time and you are happy to get your chores and school work done because you have a goal at the end, and that is spending time doing the things you enjoy!

          Good work and good effort is often rewarded. It is rewarded by the knowledge that you did your best and it is practice for the future. I really wish someone had taught me how to manage my time when I was younger. I will have another session on time management for teens upcoming. I am excited about your future because with more time it will allow you to explore things that you are passionate about. Think about all of the amazing inventors such as Thomas Edison, The Wright Brothers and Benjamin Franklin to name a few. As kids, they were constantly experimenting and thinking about new ideas and look at what they did as adults. Now is your time and I hope you use it wisely!

           

          The post Time Management for Kids: Simple Skills That Stick (Special Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

          11 min
        5. Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout
          Why are we burned out before the school year even begins? In this podcast, we tackle how homeschoolers overcome burnout successfully, with key tips to help you become a homeschool success.
          Strategies for Homeschoolers: Overcoming Burnout – Episode 573

          Welcome, dear listeners, to another encouraging episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms. As a mom who’s homeschooled for over three decades, I’ve faced those moments when the weight of curriculum choices, daily chores, and family dynamics feels like too much. But today, we’re shifting from survival mode to thriving by focusing on innovative, faith-grounded approaches that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re a Christian or Catholic family seeking spiritual alignment or approaching homeschooling from a secular viewpoint, these ideas are adaptable to renew your energy and keep the joy alive in your home education.

          Recognizing the Signs of Homeschool Burnout

          Burnout often creeps in when our expectations clash with reality—perhaps from overcommitting to co-ops, rigid schedules that don’t flex with life, or neglecting personal recharge time. In my own experience, it showed up as irritability during lessons or dreading the start of a new week. Drawing from biblical principles like finding rest in the Lord (as in Matthew 11:28), we can view burnout not as failure but as a signal to realign. For families of all backgrounds, this means assessing your current setup: Are you trying to replicate traditional school too closely, or ignoring the natural ebbs and flows of home life?

          Building Sustainable Routines for Long-Term Energy

          One key to lasting strength is crafting flexible weekly plans that incorporate variety. Instead of a one-size-fits-all schedule, try theme-based days—like “Exploration Monday” for hands-on science or history projects, which keeps things fresh and prevents monotony. I’ve found that rotating subjects based on energy levels helps; for instance, tackle high-focus tasks in the morning when everyone’s alert, and save creative activities for afternoons. This approach, inspired by the idea of stewardship over our time, allows space for unexpected blessings or challenges without derailing the whole day.

          Another effective method is integrating short, purposeful breaks with movement or nature. Step outside for a 10-minute walk to discuss a lesson informally, or use that time for quick household resets. This not only combats mental fatigue but also models balance for your kids, showing them that productivity includes self-care. For faith-centered homes, frame these pauses as moments to appreciate creation, fostering gratitude that counters exhaustion.

          Fostering Community and Support Networks

          Isolation can amplify burnout, so intentionally build connections with other homeschoolers. Join or start a local co-op where you swap teaching duties—one week you handle math games, the next a friend covers art. In my years, these partnerships have been lifesavers, providing accountability and fresh perspectives. Online forums or apps for homeschool meetups can work too, especially if in-person options are limited. Think of it as embodying the community spirit in scriptures like Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, where two are better than one, but it’s equally valuable for secular families seeking practical collaboration.

          Delegate age-appropriate responsibilities to your children to lighten your load. Create a family chore wheel or assign “helper roles” during school time, like older siblings guiding younger ones in reading. This empowers kids with ownership and frees you up, turning potential stress points into growth opportunities. I’ve seen this transform our home dynamic, reducing my overwhelm while building their independence.

          Prioritizing Personal Renewal and Mindset Shifts

          To sustain your role, carve out non-negotiable “mom time”—perhaps an evening hobby like journaling goals or listening to uplifting audiobooks. Set boundaries, such as ending school by a certain hour to enjoy family downtime. Reframe challenges positively: Instead of seeing a tough day as defeat, celebrate small wins, like a child’s “aha” moment. For Christian families, this ties into renewing your mind as in Romans 12:2, but anyone can benefit from mindset tools like daily affirmations focused on progress over perfection.

          Conclusion: Reclaiming Joy in Your Homeschool Journey

          Overcoming burnout isn’t about drastic overhauls but consistent, intentional steps that restore balance and purpose. By implementing these strategies, you’ll move from feeling depleted to embracing the abundance homeschooling offers. Thanks for tuning in, friends—may your week be filled with renewed vigor and meaningful connections.

          • Assess and Adjust Your Schedule: Review your weekly plan and introduce theme days or flexible blocks to add variety and prevent routine fatigue.
          • Incorporate Movement Breaks: Schedule 10-15 minute outdoor or active pauses daily to refresh minds and bodies, discussing lessons casually to keep learning flowing.
          • Build a Support Network: Connect with one or two homeschool families for shared teaching sessions or virtual check-ins to share the load and gain new ideas.
          • Delegate Family Roles: Assign tasks like prep work or peer tutoring to kids, using tools like chore charts to foster responsibility and ease your burden.
          • Claim Personal Recharge Time: Block out 30 minutes daily for a hobby or reflection, setting firm end times for school to protect your well-being.
          • For More Listening: Explore These Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes

            Deepen your understanding of prayer and burnout prevention with these related episodes from the Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast:

            • Homeschool Burn Out
            • When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling
            • Time Management For Parents | Replay
            • Mommy Jammies Night
            • Peaceful Homeschooling: 5 Simple Ways to Create a Calm, Christ-Centered Home
            • Thank you to our sponsor:
              Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. 

              The post Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

              23 min
            • Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm
              From Overwhelm to Overflow: Prayer as Your Homeschool Anchor ~ Episode 572
              Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math. 

              Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms. My prayer is that this episode fills you with hope and encouragement as you pour into the future generation of children! People don’t thank us for homeschooling our own children, but I do extend a thank-you because what you do in your own home will impact many people. Those. You know, and those you may never meet! I hope you walk away encouraged and that I can share some practical wisdom.

              I’m Felice Gerwitz, your host, and today we begin a two-part series on overcoming homeschool mom burnout through prayer strategies.

              As a veteran homeschooler myself, I’ve walked through seasons of deep exhaustion, and I know many of you are there right now.

              According to recent surveys from the National Home Education Research Institute, over 80 percent of homeschool parents report significant stress, and in our faith-led communities on platforms like X, spiritual coping is a key theme for 2026 resolutions.

              I was blessed to interview Dr. Brian Ray in past episodes, and his research is exhaustive. As long-time homeschool parents, we must be the light at the end of the tunnel and an encouragement to others.

              This series draws inspiration from biblical principles and shared experiences to help you move from overwhelm to a place of overflow, where God’s peace sustains your daily efforts.

              Understanding Homeschool Mom Burnout

              Burnout in homeschooling often creeps in quietly. It starts with the endless to-do lists: planning lessons, managing household chores, nurturing relationships, and perhaps even juggling outside commitments.

              For many Christian moms, there’s an added layer of spiritual responsibility—ensuring our children’s education aligns with our faith values. I’ve seen this in my own journey and heard it from countless families. The weight can feel crushing, leading to fatigue, irritability, and a loss of joy in what should be a fulfilling calling.

              And that is when all the doubt begins to creep in; we feel that if we share our burdens with our spouse, it will appear weak. And we can’t complain to our friends, especially those who don’t support homeschooling or who have opted for co-ops or full-time traditional school after homeschooling. That is where we shoulder those burdens and bury them deep.

              But here’s the hope: God doesn’t intend for us to carry this alone. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are weary, promising rest for our souls. Prayer isn’t just an add-on; it’s the foundation that anchors us. By integrating prayer strategies into our routines, we can reclaim that rest and renew our strength, as Isaiah 40:31 reminds us. (…but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.)

              Practical Prayer Strategies for Daily Renewal

              Let’s start with simple, intentional practices. Begin your day with a surrender prayer. Before the children wake or lessons begin, spend five to ten minutes in quiet communion with the Lord. Acknowledge your limitations and invite His guidance. Something as straightforward as, “Lord, this day is Yours; help me to do Your will,” can shift your perspective from self-reliance to divine dependence.

              Another strategy is breath prayers throughout the day. These are short, scripture-based affirmations you can whisper during transitions—like when switching from math to history or folding laundry. For instance, drawing from Philippians 4:6-7, (Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.)

              Keep in mind the key words: do not be anxious, pray, give thanks, pray for peace, and keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus! This grounds you in the moment and combats the mental clutter that fuels burnout.

              Consider creating a prayer journal specifically for your homeschool challenges. Note specific stressors, like curriculum frustrations or child conflicts, and pair them with verses of promise. Over time, record how God answers, building a testimony of His faithfulness that you can revisit on tough days.

              I know this sounds like alot and if you have little ones you are thinking, “What time, Felice?” But, you can do the Jesus prayer. Just say the name of Our Lord and Savior when you need Him the most. “Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.” or my favorite. “Jesus I trust in You!”

              Building a Support Network Through Prayer

              Isolation amplifies burnout, so incorporate intercessory prayer. Connect with other homeschool moms in your church or online faith groups. Share prayer requests anonymously if needed, focusing on mutual upliftment. I’ve found that praying for others often lightens my own load, as it reminds me we’re all in this together under God’s grace.

              Don’t think you are alone because you are not! That is a lie of the enemy to keep us isolated and to make us think we are not enough. You are. Remember, A bad day of homeschooling is better than the best day of traditional school. My children still talk about homeschooling days, and most of them plan to homeschool their own children. Our homeschool was far from perfect, but they understood that at the core of any difficult lesson was the love I had for each of them and the love of their father.

              In our community, many emphasize starting small prayer circles—perhaps a weekly call with one or two fellow moms to pray over each other’s families. This not only provides emotional support but also models prayer for our children, teaching them to seek God in their struggles. If you can arrange a park day once a month, that is even better. Our group met for First Fridays: we went to Mass on the first of the month, followed by a park day with lunch packed. It was such a blessing.

              As we close this first part, remember that burnout is a signal to pause and realign with God’s purposes. Prayer strategies like daily surrender, quoting scripture, extemporaneous prayers, and journaling can transform your approach. In part two, we’ll dive deeper into advanced practices, including fasting and scripture meditation, with real-life examples from homeschool families. Stay tuned, and may God’s peace guard your heart today.

              • When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling
              • Self Care for Life Transitions for Homeschool Moms
              • Christian Self Care for the Homeschool Mom
              • Transform Your Homeschool with Biblical Prayer Practices
              • Homeschooling When Mom Is Sick
              • The post Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                15 min
              • Games That Teach (Part 1): Brain Training Games for Homeschool Learning + Special Needs Support

                Looking for educational games that build real skills—not just keep kids busy? In Part 1 of this two-part series, host Felice Gerwitz talks with Tara Jenner of The Brain Trainers about games that teach—including simple car games, on-the-go learning games, and card games that strengthen memory, processing speed, auditory processing, visual processing, language retrieval, and executive function skills.

                Tara shares how families can use games as practical “brain training” tools—especially helpful for kids who struggle with multi-step directions, working memory, or word-finding.

                In This Episode, You’ll Learn
                Sponsored by CTCMath.com — the online math program homeschool parents love because it builds real confidence fast. Lessons are short and clear, kids can pause and rewind as often as they need, and they can learn at their own pace (without the stress). Parents also get detailed progress reports—and a whole lot less tension when it’s time for math.
                Why educational games work (and how to make them “transfer” to real life)

                Tara explains that games are far more effective when kids can name the skill they’re practicing and learn to apply it outside the game—socially and academically.

                Easy “games on the go” for homeschool families

                These quick, no-prep games can be played in the car, in line, or during errands:

                • The Mailbox Game (Analogies + Associations)
                  One item “goes into the mailbox,” and something connected by one trait comes out. Great for analogy thinking, flexible reasoning, and verbal explanation.

                • What Are We Having for Dinner? (Categorization + Emotional Language)
                  Kids sort items into “tasty,” “nasty,” or “aww” (soft fuzzy empathy items). Builds categorization, quick responses, and expressive language.

                • Rapid Naming Game (Vocabulary Retrieval + Processing Speed)
                  Fast category naming (like groceries, sports team names, etc.), using visualization strategies to improve speed and accuracy.

                  Grocery store brain games that double as life skills

                  Felice shares a fun “theme scavenger hunt” style game using science connections (like Mars bars = planets or Milky Way = space), boosting creative associations and attention.

                  Tara adds a smart extension: teach kids to notice marketing placement—what’s at eye level, on end caps, and why—while also building visual awareness.

                  Featured Game Resource Mentioned
                  Name 5 (Endless Games)

                  A category-prompt game Tara uses to support rapid naming, vocabulary growth, and research prompts when kids get stuck on categories.

                  Q&A: “My son can’t follow more than one direction at a time—how do we do this?”

                  Tara breaks down practical strategies for kids who struggle with following multi-step directions, including:

                  • teaching directions one step at a time

                  • having the child repeat the step back

                  • using visualization (“see yourself doing it”)

                  • helping kids connect the “missing steps” in a sequence

                    This section is especially helpful for parents supporting kids with auditory processing challenges or working memory limitations.

                    Card Games That Teach (and What Skills They Build)

                    Tara recommends several high-impact educational card games and explains how to use them for skill-building (even before playing the “official” rules):

                    SET

                    Builds pattern recognition, logic, sorting, visual discrimination, and multi-feature processing. Tara also shares pre-game exercises (sorting by color/shape/number/shading) to reduce overwhelm and build mastery.

                    Blink

                    Fast-paced matching by shape, color, or number—great for processing speed and flexible thinking. Tara recommends starting with open-hand play and emphasizing skill before speed.

                    7-8-9

                    A mental math card game using quick +/– calculations. Great for strengthening math fluency (when kids are ready).

                    Spot It! (and variations)

                    Strengthens visual processing, scanning, and attention by finding the one matching symbol between cards. Tara shares strategies like elimination by color to narrow focus.

                    About Today’s Guest: Tara Jenner

                    Tara Jenner is a homeschool mom and brain training specialist who works with families and students to strengthen cognitive skills through practical exercises and targeted support.

                    Find Tara here:

                    • TheBrain-Trainers.com

                      What’s Coming in Part 2

                      In Games That Teach (Part 2), Felice and Tara will move into board games and additional strategies for building memory skills through play.

                      Listen + Subscribe

                      You can listen to this episode at TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com and follow the show on your favorite podcast app.

                      Sponsored by CTCMath.com

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

                      The post Games That Teach (Part 1): Brain Training Games for Homeschool Learning + Special Needs Support appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                      50 min
                    • The Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice for a Smoother Week (Replay)
                      📚 Part of our guide: Homeschool Organization
                      Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice (Replay)

                      The Best homeschool scheduling advice I ever received actually came from my daughter. She said, “Mom if we are going to duplicate the school system then why homeschool?” With that in mind, I looked at the way I scheduled my homeschool year. I made time for those special events that make homeschooling stand out from the conventional school curriculum. Whether it is a field trip, a family trip that is planned or one-to-one mentoring with a talented person. In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, I’ll explain the best homeschool scheduling advice, ever!

                      Thanks to our sponsor –  CTC Math!

                      Questions to ask yourself before you begin scheduling!
                      1. What are your state laws — are you compliant?
                      2. Are you part of a support group? This network IS part of your support!
                      3. What are your goals and objectives for the year?
                      4.  What method of homeschooling do you lean toward? If you don’t know listen to this podcast on the topic HERE PUT LINK
                      5. How long are you planning to homeschool? 4, 5, or 6 hours or more per day? Check out your homeschool laws here if you don’t already know them: https://hslda.org/content/laws/
                      6. Are you flexible?
                      7. Do you like check-off lists? For you? For the kids?
                      8. These questions will set the groundwork for how you’d like to set up your homeschool year. What I might consider the best homeschool scheduling advice may not align with your homeschool philosophy. However, I hope you can take what you need and make it work for you! With this clearly in mind, here is some of the best advice I can share with you about homeschool schedules and ways to have a stress-free year.

                        Best Homeschool Scheduling Tips:
                        1. Keep your eyes focused on your family’s needs. What Sally Jo uses for her kids may not work for yours.
                        2. Look at your goals. What do you hope to accomplish this year? What subjects do you want to cover this year?
                        3. Is it important to develop your child’s creativity and imagination and encourage them to think?
                        4. What character qualities do you want to work on? If you want to strengthen family relationships, select reading materials or read aloud the books that will do just that. Read the Little House on the Prarie (younger) or Anne of Green Gables (older).
                        5. Each child is unique, consider your child’s needs.
                        6. Never recreate the public/private classroom at home.
                        7. Don’t forget about you. Do you have help scheduled, whether that is a chore chart so everyone can pitch in, or a park day so you can visit with friends?
                        8. Never – and that means never answer the phone while you are homeschooling. Set special ringtones for important people – others go to voice mail. This goes for checking Facebook or social media in general.
                        9. Never and that means never -unless it is absolutely impossible go on an errand during school time. No grocery store shopping, doctor appointments – until after school or on a day off if you take one, etc.
                        10. Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice — Ever! 
                          Tools & Supplies:
                          1. Three-Inch Binder: Use a three-ring binder. I began a master homeschool binder when I first began homeschooling and it contains ALL the must-haves… First, copies of their schedules, and important information: everything from blanks I could duplicate to things I always had to look up previously. I have the children’s evaluations in this binder from the beginning of our homeschooling in Kindergarten through twelfth grade! I also keep a copy of their evaluations in their grade/year notebook.
                          2. Master Lists: Subjects, books, reading books, grade level goals, etc. I think through this once, add to it if a particular child needs more information, and then file it in my book. I also have a file in a Word doc on my computer that corresponds. Master lists can include a supply list for school, birthdays, and a calendar of events.
                          3. File cabinet. Throughout the years I kept files on each of the kids and work. As we ended a year, the binder was emptied, the information for the year was filed under the child’s name (and grade labeled), and the binder was then ready for the next year.
                          4. School Supplies: Notebooks: Look for sales. We get lined, spiral notebooks for less than 20 cents during back-to-school sales. I buy enough for all year. Use a Sharpie (or a nice label from the computer) to label the subject. Notebook paper: This is one of those things we always ran out of when the children were younger. Wide-ruled notebook paper for the little kids and college ruled for older ones. Pencils: We prefer the #2 pencils and some of the kids liked the mechanical pencils, but there was one brand, in particular, they liked best that we could only purchase at an office supply store. Yes, friends, these were “pre-Amazon” days! Of course, depending on your child’s needs there are crayons, markers, erasers (the ones that fit on the pencil and the bigger ones), colored pencils, pens and Sharpies, and highlighters. Don’t forget the 110 lb paper to make your own dividers.
                          5. Best Purchases: Large Dry Erase Boards and erasable markers, an electric three-hole punch, a laminator, laminating sheets, a stapler, a heavy-duty stapler (to make those books kids love to make), and a heavy-duty tape dispenser. I loved sticky notes and tabs to create my own dividers with 110 lb paper.
                          6. Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice:
                            1. Know Your Kids: Do you know or have you evaluated your children? Our sponsor has these wonderful books for Placement and Evaluation.
                            2. Organized: Get your books organized. Half the battle if finding the books you need when you need them. School supplies and additional resources. Everything has a place!
                            3. Freebies: There are lots of sites that say you can get free curriculum, downloads, printables, etc. If you have these – organize them!
                            4. Scope and Sequence: This states what your kids need to know and as homeschoolers, you can be flexible. Here is a scope and sequence from Abeka as well as Bob Jones that goes from K-12. I’m not endorsing this one way or the other, you have to make your own determination.
                            5. Flexibility: Build flexibility into your schedule – how can you do this? (Listen to the podcast for tips)
                            6. Input: Get input from your older children. One year my kids wanted to study oceanography and space. Talk about diverse! Yet those became their favorite subjects.
                            7. Routine or Schedule? What works for you a routine or schedule? The best homeschool scheduling takes into mind your lifestyle and only you can decide if you want to do things daily with a set schedule or perhaps have a routine that includes daily activities but is more loosely scheduled.
                            8. Rotate your schedule – doing the same thing all the time can be boring and cause kids to zone out. Maybe you do math every day, but what about history or science? You can do history two times a week and science two times for 6 weeks, and then change it to history three times and science two.
                            9. 180 Homeschool Days: Get a year’s calendar and circle the days you will school each month. Yes, this can change but it is nice to have it set out before you – so you can plan. 180 days of homeschooling is what my state requires. Check your state information here: https://hslda.org/content/laws/
                            10. Homeschool Planner: Well Planned Gal planners are my favorite – there are digital, printed, and even prayer planner.  There is also a smaller size to keep in your purse or backpack!
                            11. Use Checklists: Checklist with pictures for little kids and a checklist for you. It is an easy way to keep records.
                            12. Breaks: Be sure to highlight birthdays, events, holidays, and field trips. Do you have a catch-up/ planning day? If you can’t have one every week, try for one a month.
                            13. Field Trips: Be sure to use the resources available to homeschool families in your area.
                            14. Plan your week: Look at your books and divide the number of homeschool days or weeks by chapters. If there are 30 chapters you may need to do one per week. Etc. In some books you can take two weeks to complete one chapter.
                            15. Teach Kids Together: Group ages and books/subjects as much as possible. Kids like working together or if they are competitive use it to their advantage.
                            16. Projects: Plan early. Science fair ideas begin in the summer, papers are signed as soon as school starts (grades six and up). I wrote the book, “An Insider’s Guide to Successful Science Fair Projects available on Media Angels Membership or Amazon here.
                            17. High School: Planning for high school? Plan a 4-year schedule of required subjects for graduation. The scale is different for a high school diploma vs. a high school diploma with college in mind. Also if your kids are planning to attend college listen to College Prep Genius for ways to ace the SAT and ACT as well as get scholarships. If your kids play sports – know the rules. If your kids are approaching high school and have an eye to playing sports in college read up on the NCAA.org eligibility information about classes that count for high school for college play.
                            18. Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – CTC Math

                               

                              The post The Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice for a Smoother Week (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                              45 min
                            19. Cup of Joy: New Year Encouragement for Homeschool Moms (Replay)
                              Cup of Joy ~ Episode 516 with Karen Dwyer

                              Do you feel like joy has been squeezed out by the pressures of homeschooling, family life, or unexpected trials? In this encouraging replay episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast, Felice Gerwitz welcomes Karen Dwyer for a hope-filled conversation about discovering true joy—even in the midst of deep adversity.

                              Karen, host of the Wrap Yourself in Joy Podcast, shares her powerful testimony of walking with the Lord through devastating loss, including a house fire and the tragic death of her first husband. Instead of being overcome by sorrow, Karen explains how a life rooted in Christ, prayer, and community became the foundation for lasting joy.

                              What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
                              • Why true joy can only be found in a close relationship with Christ

                              • How to remain anchored in faith during seasons of grief and hardship

                              • Practical ways to defeat everyday “joy busters”

                              • How Scripture—especially John 15—points us to complete joy

                              • Why filling yourself spiritually is essential (yes, even for homeschool moms!)

                                Introducing Cup of Joy Women’s Small Groups

                                Karen also introduces Cup of Joy, a simple, welcoming small-group study designed especially for busy moms. Each group:

                                • Meets for one hour a week over coffee or tea

                                • Listens to a 15-minute podcast episode beforehand

                                • Uses a free, one-page PDF discussion guide (sent weekly)

                                • Focuses on Scripture, prayer, gratitude, and fellowship

                                  These studies are gentle, non-threatening, and perfect for homeschool moms who want community without overwhelm. Groups can be hosted at home, in churches, or even late in the evening once kids are asleep.

                                  Two available 8-week studies include:

                                  • Joyful and Battle Ready

                                  • Esther for This Time: Prayer, Reversals, and Joy

                                    About Karen Dwyer

                                    Karen Dwyer is a retired college professor, former television cooking show host, author, and passionate encourager of women in faith. Her books Wrap Yourself in Joy and Esther for This Time are newly revised editions rooted deeply in Scripture and practical Christian living.

                                    Helpful Links
                                    • Learn more about Cup of Joy & sign up: wrapyourselfinjoy.com

                                    • Listen to Karen’s podcast: wrapyourselfinjoypodcast.com

                                    • Visit Felice and the show notes: vintagehomeschoolmoms.com

                                    • Explore more resources at Media Angels

                                      Final Encouragement:
                                      If you’ve been longing for more joy—or wondering how to share your faith in a natural, life-giving way—this episode is for you. Joy doesn’t require perfection, just presence… and sometimes a simple cup of coffee with friends.

                                      Listen to Episode 514: “Cup of Joy” today and be encouraged.

                                      Visit Karen’s website WrapYourselfInJoy.com

                                      Please consider starting a Cup of JOY small group study accompanying this podcast. You would meet with friends for one hour weekly over coffee for eight weeks, and Karen will send you the free commentary and discussion materials each week. For more information and to sign up to start a Cup of JOY Women small group, go to WRAPYourselfinJOY.com.

                                       

                                      The post Cup of Joy: New Year Encouragement for Homeschool Moms (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                                      20 min
                                    • Keeping Kids Close at Christmas (Holiday Replay)
                                      Merry Christmas Keeping Kids Close – 387

                                      The to-do list just keeps growing, but keeping kids close should be on the top of the list. In this episode, we will discuss easy ways to include the children and enjoy the holidays.

                                      Thanks to our sponsor – Media Angels

                                      Sometimes I feel like I’m preaching to the choir. You guys are amazing you are dedicated moms who love your kids! But in our busyness, we sometimes lose our focus. Our worst traits come to the forefront and we are overwhelmed by it all – and then life happens. Someone is sick or there is a life-situation to deal with … and never mind the budget! December is a time when sales crop up and everything looks too good to pass up.

                                      Friends I want to encourage you in this episode of VHM to keep the focus of the holidays on the true meaning of the season and on your kids. It’s easy to say – I shouldn’t get so overwhelmed that but the reality is that all of us do at one point or another. Believe me, it happens to the best of us – even those of you who are super organized! It doesn’t have to be that way and something that happened to me recently showed me that all of the efforts are SO worth it. Especially those of us who are with our kids quite a bit as homeschool parents.

                                      Keeping Kids Close

                                      I received the best gift ever from a pastor of our church. When he comes for dinner the kids never left the table. He is entertaining with his Irish accent, and he is so full of stories. He can talk about engines with one of my sons, and then make us laugh with stories of his seminary days. But he is a man that loves the Lord and has the pulse of what is going on in our daily lives. So, back to the gift – the gift he gave me was a compliment about my kids. He talked about the evidence of faith in them, how they loved and honored the Lord. He also asked me why I thought about the reason why. My answer? Besides as an example, and believe me, my husband and I are fallen like the rest of the flock – the reason is the time we spent with our kids.

                                      Our kids were with us through the thick of things, we worked around our home together, we homeschooled from K-12 – with some college credits for the youngest two. Our favorite vacation was our pop-up camper. We kept things simple and made the best of our time together. Sure, it was work but we enjoyed it! These are some of the best memories we have as a family.

                                      Ask your children what their favorite activities are and you will be surprised. Often it is the things you think would be the least important, like reading books together as a family. One of my friends does this as a Christmas tradition at their home that they read a book together, even though her children are older.

                                      We can keep our kids close with activities and also events. Whether you are decorating the tree or going out in the woods – something I’ve never done but would love to do, and chopping one down! Building a snowman, or going on long walks together. Watching a movie and talking about it afterward.

                                      Fun things to do with the kids while taking turns telling each other favorite family memories:

                                      1. Popcorn strings. Use a large needle and strong thread to make a popcorn string. You can decorate your inside tree or if you live in the south like I do, decorate an outdoor tree – the outdoor creatures will love you for it!
                                      2. Make place cards for Christmas – if you downloaded the Christmas planner from the website (UltimateHomeschoolPodcastNetwork.com) you received a template for this. Or make your own.
                                      3. Make handmade Christmas cards for family members. Be sure to write a Scripture verse.
                                      4. Create a family “time capsule” – put in current pictures, memorabilia – a picture of a favorite toy or stuffed animal, etc. Each person can put in their own “favorites” card. For example favorite movies, favorite music or favorite books. Put it up in the closet and label it with the year. Take it out in a few years and look at what it contains.
                                      5. Sit outside around a campfire or star gaze. Enjoy the outdoors (perhaps bundled together) with your family!
                                      6. We can experience the joy of the holiday with our families and create those memories that will last the test of time. There is so much more joy and excitement about the coming of Christmas when we spend time with our children, and I know you do!

                                         

                                        The post Keeping Kids Close at Christmas (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                                        12 min
                                      7. Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Homeschool Families (Holiday Replay)
                                        Last Minute Christmas Gifts ~ Episode 483

                                        hat do you do for that hard to buy for person? How about some great last minute Christmas gifts? Over the years I have a list of great things to help you without much planning or spending lots of money!

                                        I have found that personal gifts are difficult to buy but my best buying tip is to think about things they may enjoy eating. One year we gave away mason jars filled with ingredients to make cookies. Layered looks nice, but baggies are more practical especially when mixing the ingredients. What about homemade bread? You can buy tiny loaf pans you can bake in that are festive and perfect for gifts. It is always fun to receive something that is personal

                                        Have you checked out the calendar lately? Is it time to freak out? What do you do for that hard to buy for person? Don’t worry, I’ll share some things you can have on hand for the times you need something quick!

                                        Thanks to our sponsor

                                        Here are some other shows you may enjoy:

                                        Best Christmas Ever

                                        Christmas Memories

                                        Last Minute Christmas Prep

                                        Christmas Countdown

                                        I love giving gifts. I love to give gifts that have value but are not ridiculously expensive. It depends on your individual budget, but many times we give gifts based on what we want to give rather than on what the person wants.

                                        Last Minute Christmas Gifts …The key to giving gifts is threefold:

                                        1. Know the person
                                        2. Have a budget
                                        3. Listen
                                        4. This is great for your individual family and some of you have special traditions. You may have a special way you handle gifts within your own family. My daughter’s family (a household with eight children ranging in age from sixteen to three) select a name to gift one other person among the children. Another friend with a large family purchased large, plastic Christmas storage bags and filled it with wrapped gifts for each of her children. There was no scrambling to find gifts under the tree. She kept her gifts to under twenty dollars. Another friend purchased each child and Christmas ornament for each year. When they were adults, they took these with them. It was a wonderful keepsake.

                                          Last Minute Christmas Gifts: Take a Trip!

                                          Perhaps you take a trip instead of giving each other gifts. This is something I think that adults enjoy more than kids. If you do something like this, perhaps consider sharing a few inexpensive items with each other that are meaningful on Christmas. Having something on hand for gift-giving is not always possible, especially if you have a budget. But I promise these ideas won’t break the bank. I know we all love to purchase personal gifts but that isn’t always possible.

                                          Here are some suggestions for inexpensive last-minute Christmas gifts:

                                          1. Think about storage if you are short on space. Under the bed in a flat storage bin is one idea.
                                          2. My favorite isles are the discount isles in stores such as Hobby Lobby. I picked up about ten nice kites for several dollars each. These are stored there until I needed them. I can also pick up craft books and art books at discounts.
                                          3. Gift cards are great, and while impersonal, they are enjoyed by most. If you are on a budget you may consider restaurant gift cards. You can get them in smaller increments. Buy ones that have two or three restaurants on the card. By having these on hand you will be ready in case a friend “unexpectedly” brings over a gift and you have nothing in return. I have other ideas upcoming. I would buy gift cards to my family’s favorite restaurants and often you get a free $10 card or more with a larger purchase. You can use the gift card to pay for your meal and then gift the smaller increment.
                                          4. Once again depending on how you celebrate the gift exchange, you may want to keep an ongoing list of age-appropriate gifts handy. Over the years our list has grown but crowd favorites are roller blades for the teen and under set, airsoft for the fifteen and older sets, and Rubik’s cube for eight and older. (Tell Mike’s story)
                                          5. Some families like to give one main present and then have some filler gifts. For example, a pair of roller blades and the filler gifts are pads, a helmet, and a homemade gift card to the roller rink with a note that they can redeem to bring a friend after the holiday.
                                          6. Last Minute Christmas Gifts Include:

                                            For Kids:

                                            1. A book on how to make paper airplanes with a small pack of colored heavyweight papers.
                                            2. A craft or drawing book with a small gift card for supplies.
                                            3. Watercolor pencils and a pad of blank paper
                                            4. Yarn crafts: including yarn
                                            5. Gift cards
                                            6. Christmas Ornaments
                                            7. Slingshot
                                            8. Rubik’s cube (a crowd favorite)
                                            9. Origami book and paper
                                            10. Binoculars
                                            11. For Adults

                                              1. Plants
                                              2. Decorative towels
                                              3. Recipes: recipe card and cheap card holder that you decorate
                                              4. Cutting boards
                                              5. Gift cards
                                              6. Christmas ornaments
                                              7. Framed family pictures.
                                              8. Homemade trail mix in a decorative mason jar.
                                              9. Homemade bread such as pumpkin (you can bake these and freeze them).
                                              10. Re-gift (be sure you write down the name of the person who gave you the gift!)
                                              11. On Hand Gifts

                                                Smaller gifts that I have on hand (when my children were little and now for the grandkids) are as follows:

                                                1. Parachutes: family favorite and nice ones are about six dollars for three and made of cloth instead of plastic. (Kid favorite!)
                                                2. Airplanes – These are the quick kind you can put together and fly
                                                3. Glow sticks. Evening gift
                                                4. Bubbles
                                                5. Cracker Barrel novelty items such as puzzles and games.
                                                6. One more last-minute favorite gift idea, especially for people who are difficult to buy, is a gift of food. Most people enjoy eating, so food is a favorite. One year we gave away mason jars filled with ingredients to make cookies. Layered looks nice, but baggies are more practical, especially when mixing the ingredients. What about homemade bread? You can buy tiny loaf pans you can bake in that are festive and perfect for gifts. There are many ready-made mixes that you can make at home as well if baking is not your thing. It is always fun to receive something personal with some extra thought behind it.

                                                  Well, there you have it! Gift ideas that won’t break the bank and will help you with those who are hard to buy for. Keeping to a budget this time of year may be difficult, but putting thought behind a gift, even if it is not lavish, is important.

                                                  Have a blessed Christmas, and I pray these ideas are helpful!

                                                   

                                                  Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

                                                  The post Last-Minute Christmas Gifts for Homeschool Families (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                                                  22 min
                                                7. Stress-Free Holidays Are Possible: Here’s How (Holiday Replay)
                                                  Short Cuts – Hints & Holiday Tips by Felice Gerwitz

                                                  Discover tips for stress free holidays with careful planning and creative entertaining ideas that wow your guests every time.

                                                  How does Felice Gerwitz tirelessly entertain 20+ guests of all ages, use real dishes, cloth tablecloths & napkins with home-made napkin rings, and still remain sane after the last guests have left? With some careful planning, cooking ahead and getting some amazing deals and after holiday sales, Felice pulls off the Martha Steward look year after year.

                                                  Learn how to create a wish list and look for deals, bake ahead and freeze, enlist help from your family members and guests, make fresh flower centerpieces that look like you’ve slaved for hours and other tips that Felice has learned during the years. She enjoys baking and entertaining but most of all rejoicing in God and celebrating the special ties between family and friends.

                                                  Here is a handout along with a free printable to hang on your wall! Vintage Handouts Stress Free Holidays

                                                  Recommended Resources from Media Angels

                                                  Introducing the Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels – your ultimate toolkit for a joy-filled and organized holiday season! This 3-pack bundle includes three essential printables: the Christmas Planner, the Christmas Kids Activity Planner, and the Christmas Week Planner, each thoughtfully designed to elevate your festive preparations.

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                   

                                                  The post Stress-Free Holidays Are Possible: Here’s How (Holiday Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

                                                  36 min

                                                About Vintage Homeschool Moms

                                                From the publisher's feed

                                                Encouragement for the Christian homeschool mom who wants to raise faithful kids — without losing herself along the way. Veteran homeschool mom and Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network founder Felice…

                                                More shows like Vintage Homeschool Moms

                                                Making Biblical Family Life Practical by Hal Young and Melanie Young

                                                Making Biblical Family Life Practical

                                                101 Listeners

                                                Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show by Felice Gerwitz

                                                Ultimate Homeschool Radio Show

                                                8 Listeners

                                                The Homeschool Sanity Show by Melanie Wilson, PhD

                                                The Homeschool Sanity Show

                                                111 Listeners

                                                Homeschooling IRL | Parenting & homeschooling — unfiltered. by Andy and Kendra Fletcher

                                                Homeschooling IRL | Parenting & homeschooling — unfiltered.

                                                221 Listeners

                                                Dollars & Sense by Carol Topp

                                                Dollars & Sense

                                                9 Listeners

                                                Homeopathy for Mommies by Sue Meyer

                                                Homeopathy for Mommies

                                                237 Listeners

                                                Family Renewal by Israel Wayne

                                                Family Renewal

                                                45 Listeners

                                                Finish Well by Finish Well Team

                                                Finish Well

                                                5 Listeners

                                                Mommy Jammies by Felice Gerwitz

                                                Mommy Jammies

                                                7 Listeners