Are you ready to take your homeschooling up a notch? Fine-tuning your homeschool day takes no time but just a little bit of effort. In this podcast, Felice Gerwitz shares how to balance and structure your day with flexible alternatives.

Welcome back to Vintage Homeschool Moms! In this follow-up to our episode, A Great Start to Your Homeschool Day, we’re diving deeper into creating a homeschool pace that works for your family. Listen, we are all different, and I can describe for you the perfect homeschool day that would work for me, yet not for you. Since we can’t sit across the table from each other and talk, this is the next best thing. I can make some suggestions, and you can decide what works best for you.

Thanks to our sponsor, NowPrograms.com

In homeschooling, there is no one-size-fits-all. Homeschooling is often tailored to your child, your family, and your specific needs. In a large homeschool family, this idea may not be as child-specific, but you can still get your day in some semblance of order and end the day feeling happier for it.

First, analyze how you feel at the end of the day. Does your day feel chaotic, overly rigid, or packed to the brim? Today’s episode, Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day: Balancing Structure and Flexibility, is all about refining your approach to make homeschooling sustainable, productive, and joyful. Yes, friends, joy can be had in your homeschool days. I get it; some days are just ordeals. However, after many years of tweaking my homeschooling days, I developed a method that worked for us, and that is what I want to share with you today. How to find what works for you.

I’m excited to share practical strategies to help you blend routines, schedules, and a positive mindset, resulting in a day that flows smoothly. We can only hope and pray, isn’t that right? I also want to discuss the results from our last episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, specifically the Homeschool Day Self-Evaluation Quiz (from Episode 565). If you missed this episode, you can listen to it first. It is not necessary, but it would be helpful. That episode is A Great Start To Your Homeschool.

I’ll also want to provide some ideas on how to adapt to challenges, utilize some inexpensive tools effectively, and prioritize downtime to keep your family learning yet thriving. Maybe you haven’t started homeschooling, or you are in the middle of the year and just found this episode. No worries! I believe that every day can be a fresh start to shape the type of homeschool experience that reflects your values and your kids’ needs.

This episode builds on the foundation laid in our previous discussion about starting your homeschool day with intention. We’ll use insights from the 20-question True or False quiz (available at Vintage Homeschool Moms) to help you identify whether your day is chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or working well. From there, we’ll dive into actionable steps to fine-tune your approach, ensuring your homeschool year is both effective and enjoyable. Let’s get started!

Every homeschool family is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Fine-tuning your day means finding the balance between structure and flexibility that suits your family’s needs. In our last episode, we discussed how your attitude is so important in shaping your day and how routines, schedules, and checklists provide a sense of stability. Today, we’re taking it a step further by helping you refine your day based on your quiz results. Whether your day feels like a whirlwind or a rigid checklist, small tweaks can reduce stress, boost productivity, and make room for joy. A well-tuned homeschool day allows you to focus on what matters—learning, family connection, and faith—without feeling overwhelmed.

The Homeschool Day Self-Evaluation Quiz highlighted the following important points and helped you to identify six day types: chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or a day that is working well. Here’s what each means:

Listen, a working well day can be a rigid day, or an overly scheduled day if that makes you and your kids happy! So, go with what works best for you. However, when you review your quiz answers, you might note one or two areas to improve. For example, a chaotic day needs a morning routine, while an over-scheduled day requires cutting non-essentials. Use these insights to guide the strategies below.

The key to a great homeschool day is mixing it up! Try blending routines for some flexibility with schedules for accountability. Routines create consistent habits without being tied to a clock, while schedules ensure academic progress. Here’s how to combine them:

When I homeschooled, we used schedules for academics but routines for chores and family time. If a subject ran long, we’d adjust non-academic routines, like delaying a read-aloud. This balance kept us on track without feeling overwhelmed or a slave to our schedule.

Homeschool days are unpredictable—spills, arguments, or a child’s curiosity can disrupt plans. Adapting without losing momentum is crucial. Try these tips:

For chaotic days, start with one routine, like a consistent wake-up time. On rigid days, allow one time block to be flexible for spontaneous learning. These adjustments create a change that is enough to keep the kids engaged, while also making your children who like to be scheduled happy.

Tools like planners and checklists streamline your day and empower kids to take ownership of their tasks. Here’s how to maximize them:

Checklists were a lifesaver in my homeschool, keeping us focused without micromanaging. They’re simple yet effective for tracking progress. Best of all, they can be printed out and used as a resource for yearly evaluations at the end of the school year.

Over-scheduling drains families, leaving no room for rest or connection. To keep homeschooling sustainable, prioritize downtime:

If your quiz results showed over-scheduling, list all activities and analyze them to see if it is possible to cut one or two. Replace them with as you can. Balance is key! My daughter would homeschool year-round and take off blocks of time to fit her schedule. That helped her limit the number of academics during a specific period of time to allow for more family time. Do what works for your family!

Fine-tuning is about tailoring your day to your family. Focus on one improvement—such as adding a routine, loosening a schedule, or cutting back on activities. Experiment for a week, then tweak again. Your attitude sets the tone—start fresh, model resilience, and celebrate the wins. Homeschooling is a journey, so embrace the flexibility to make it your own! If you are mirroring the school at home, it tends to be tedious and unsustainable in the long run.

For more insights on creating a great homeschool year, check out these Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes:

Download the Character Counts planners at mediaangels.com/store. This is a great way to encourage and practice good character traits as a family. There are activities for the entire family and scenarios to act out.

Share your favorite routine or tip on social media with #VintageHomeschoolMoms. Subscribe for more episodes, and join us next time to explore fostering independence in your homeschoolers. Keep it up, moms—you’ve got this!

The post Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

What are your goals for this school year? I bet you want a great start to your homeschool day, and in this podcast, we discuss ways to take control of the chaos or schedule overload and enjoy a successful day every day. Join your host, Felice Gerwitz, and listen in for key points and a quick quiz to get you started. A Great Start to Your Homeschool Day

Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com – yes, they are an amazing math company and I can attest to it as my grandchildren and now using it and love it.

Whether it’s day one, day 21, or day 101, each homeschool day offers a fresh start. Over the years, I’ve learned that our attitude shapes how the day begins and, ultimately, how it ends. Our children pick up on our cues, and while that may feel like a lot of pressure, it’s valuable to keep in mind. A positive mindset can set the tone for a productive and joyful day.

I begin each day with prayer, praising God for having a way of turning my day around. I keep that mental praise going even when I don’t feel like being thankful, and especially when all appears to be going south. You get what I mean! As moms, we carry many burdens and wear many hats. But praising God is a sure way to get your day off to a good start. So, once you get your mental work down, what about the physical?

For more insights on creating a great homeschool year, check out these Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes:

Dejunking and Homeschool Organization Felice and Meredith Curtis share years of experience in homeschooling, and now, they discuss great tips for getting your life organized and not losing those precious treasures or important documents.

Do you have routines, a schedule, or another method to navigate your homeschool day? If your days feel chaotic, consider revising or implementing a structure. Routines always worked best for me, but I also used a structured schedule for academic classes tailored to my children’s grade levels. These were completed daily, alongside weekly goals. Checklists were incredibly helpful for staying organized and ensuring progress. You can find useful printable planners and checklists at mediaangels.com/store to support your homeschool journey.

By blending routines for flexibility and schedules for accountability, you can create a balanced day that suits your family. Start each morning with intention, and watch how small changes transform your homeschool experience into one that’s both effective and enjoyable.

Just for fun, I have a quick self-evaluation for you to take. Typically, I’m not a fan, but this will help you figure out where you can improve your day. And, with improvement comes success, happiness for a job well done, and for me, a sense of accomplishment. Many times, we struggle without putting our finger on the “why” behind the problem. In this way, taking a quick assessment may be just what you need to figure out what you can do, incrementally, to create a well-run homeschool day!

This True or False quiz helps homeschool moms assess their daily structure. Answer honestly based on your typical day to determine if it’s chaotic, scheduled, routine-based, rigid, over-scheduled, or working well. Mark True (T) or False (F) for each of the 20 questions.

Count your “True” answers for each category. The category with the most “True” responses likely describes your homeschool day (ties suggest a hybrid style). Below are explanations and suggestions inspired by homeschool practices like routines, schedules, and checklists.

If answers are mixed, try a hybrid approach: routines for flow, schedules for academics, and checklists for accountability. You can take this quiz at different times during the year, so bookmark this podcast to review at another time. Next week, we will tackle Fine-Tuning Your Homeschool Day: Balancing Structure and Flexibility. This builds on today’s topics with some quick takeaways to help your busy day run smoothly.

For more tips, listen to Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast episodes on organization.

The post A Great Start to Your Homeschool Day | Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast Episode 565 appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Must-Know Life Skills – Episode 343

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In today’s world of instant information and smartphone convenience, many young people are growing up without the practical and personal life skills they truly need. In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we roll up our sleeves and talk about the must-know life skills every child should learn before adulthood.

Life skills aren’t just about survival in the wilderness—they’re the everyday habits, disciplines, and practical abilities that build confidence, independence, and character. From faith and convictions to cooking a meal or managing money, these lessons will serve your kids for a lifetime.

Here’s a look at what we cover:

Personal Life Skills

Faith: Knowing what you believe, why you believe it, and how to articulate and defend it.

Communication: Speaking clearly, listening respectfully, and even cell phone etiquette.

Critical Thinking: Making decisions, solving problems, and discerning truth from opinion.

Self-Control & Convictions: Standing firm in beliefs, managing emotions, and respecting differences.

Coping with Stress: Identifying healthy vs. unhealthy coping strategies and reducing stress.

Practical Life Skills

Cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.

Meal planning, grocery shopping, and basic home maintenance.

Money management: saving, spending, tithing, and understanding credit vs. debit.

Writing and communication: emails, letters, and professional etiquette.

Navigation and transportation: maps, GPS, public transit, and car maintenance.

Health and safety: understanding medications, driving safety, and household dangers.

Whether you’re a homeschool parent looking to weave these lessons into your family life or a young adult trying to catch up, this episode will inspire you to equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive.

Listen now and then add your own must-know life skills to the list!

The post Life Skills For Kids (Replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Do you have to nag your teen to complete their schoolwork, do the laundry, or get up in the morning? If so, this podcast is one you both need to hear. What are those prerequisites for a long-lasting and satisfying career? Tune in to find out.

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms, I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and today we’re continuing our discussion on AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers with part two: exploring the prerequisites for a long-lasting and satisfying career. As homeschool families grounded in faith, we know the value of preparing our children not just academically, but with the character and skills that honor God’s design for work as a form of stewardship. Sometimes we feel that we are lacking, but with God all things are possible! Including the impossible. If you had a child like mine who lost their math book each day (at least once), you may wonder if she would grow up to be a welcome member of society. The good news is yes. The child in question is a college grad (in three years) and now a very organized homeschool mom of nine children who co-authored three books with me as a homeschooled teen.

My husband jokingly says that work is what you do, and it does not necessarily need to be something you love. Before college, where he received a full-ride baseball scholarship, he sold all of his carpentry tools, telling his family he would never do that again! Fast forward to post-college, and two years later, he was married to me, and he started his own construction business. He decided it was the fastest way to make a good income, so I could stay home with our children when we had them. I had a degree in education and taught middle school for two years, and I was ready to “retire.” Little did I know that I would not go back (as was the plan when I had school-aged children), and instead, I homeschooled all five children. My husband and I believe that often, a job, even if it’s not a dream job, is designed for an income to support a family. As homeschoolers, many of us moms and some dads are living in a single-income family, and with that comes budgeting and decisions on job selection based on the idea of mom staying home. As a side note, he prayed that the Lord would take away his dislike for the job and instead fill his heart with gratitude. And, God did!

Today, our topic focuses on some of the attributes necessary to find and keep a job. I believe this is something not often discussed regarding blue-collar workers, and they are every bit as important if you are considering this field as a possibility. These are the skills you need before deciding what job you might want to know more about, going on a job hunt, or even starting a job, whether it is a blue-collar or white-collar job.

This is important in any career choice. (Employers look for personnel who actually show up for work, vs. those who are slack.) The person who has to be woken up to do their schoolwork or nagged to complete chores is not going to last long in a competitive job field.

Many teens and tweens use readily available, free do-it-yourself videos to get started on career selection while still homeschooling and in high school.

This is one of the best ways, and it is so important when trying out a job idea, to see if you are a good fit.

How much can you make in the near future, and what is the pay increase in your field? How is this going to set you up in the future to support a family or contribute to the family income?

Many jobs require flexibility, as things don’t always go right.

Are you teachable? This is very important, especially when working for other people. No one wants to hire a “know-it-all,” especially one who is extra talkative or wants to boss other people around. If you are new to the job, listen, take outside cues and learn. You may have your chance to be the boss at some point. Entry level is not that chance.

Not everyone needs to be your best friend, but getting along with others is essential in any job setting.

Do you have the ability to stick with or the motivation to try something and do it to the best of your ability?

Trying your hardest doesn’t always mean success. Understanding your capabilities and knowing when a job is not a good fit for you.

Have faith in yourself that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to, even if it is difficult and everyone else says you can’t. Ignore them and press on IF this is really what you want to do.

For more on building these skills, check out our Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes like “Life Skills 101 – Life and Career Skills for Homeschoolers” and “Work Ethic with Cindy La Joy”, which offer faith-friendly insights into preparing for meaningful work.

Thanks for joining me on Vintage Homeschool Moms. Visit ultimateradioshow.com for more episodes. Until next time, take care, God bless and I’ll talk to you soon!

Listen on:

Listen to Part 1: AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers

The post Prerequisites for a Long-Lasting and Satisfying Career appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

When you think about AI, tech jobs, and blue-collar workers, are you fearful or full of hope? In this episode, we will tackle the question that many homeschool parents wonder. Is college worth all the money? Join me as we explore this topic and how it may impact your children in the near future.

Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms. Today, we are going to discuss the joys, challenges, and prepare our kids for the future. I love to think I homeschooled with a heart for faith and family first, and I’m so blessed to be with you today if you are a first-time listener, welcome.

For those of you who are faithful listeners, thanks for tuning in and welcome back! I’m your host, Felice Gerwitz, and today we’re tackling a timely topic: AI, Tech Jobs, and Blue-Collar Workers. Today, we will discuss how the rapid advancements in technology are shaking up the job market—and what that means for our kids’ futures as homeschool families.

Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com, be sure to check the homeschool link for deep discounts.

Much has happened in the last few years, and the quantum leap in AI technology is frightening, to say the least. That is, if you have a healthy understanding of how search engines function, and what used to be a useful tool has now turned into something much more accurate. It’s not perfect—thankfully—but AI is way better than the robot voice that used to greet me when I turned on AOL. If you’re old enough to remember, you’d hear those words, “You’ve got mail.”

The power of AI technology is threatening some of the most sophisticated jobs, including accounting, medical analysis, decision-making, code creation, marketing, and much, much more. Many analysts fear that entry-level white-collar jobs are easily replaceable in the future, especially as AI continues to improve. Have you walked into a fast-food restaurant, only to be greeted with rows of kiosks or computer screens ready to take your order? This is AI in the workplace, replacing real people with a machine that’s faster and as accurate as the person inputting the information.

Currently, they seem safe, but in the past, many jobs were replaced with automation. The car industry is one example, having replaced assembly lines staffed with workers with machines. But thankfully, car assembly workers are still necessary. In the not-so-distant future—well, actually, just recently—when the dock workers went on strike, one of the concessions was the shipping industry agreeing not to replace all dock workers with automation. I’m sure at some point it will happen, but it was a win for the workers and the powerful unions.

Well, it seems that with highly skilled blue-collar workers, their jobs are safe for now. All of this discussion hits close to home for me. We run a service industry, supplying carpenters to contractors to build homes. My husband owns a construction business. While he is a general contractor, his focus is on the carpentry aspect of construction—rough carpentry.

This is a highly skilled area of new house construction. They are the ones who build exterior walls (if they’re out of wood, set trusses (those pointy-looking things that are raised with a crane), and build interior walls—sometimes with wood and other times with metal. Anything involving wood framing is under his purview.

Most of the men on the job are strong and young, able to climb ladders, get on roofs, and balance on beams. They can lift those heavy power tools and work with powerful nail-guns. Let’s just say I avoid the job sites after visiting with my young children, who wanted to see what “Daddy does for work”—it was enough for me. The pay is good, and thus it’s a job that, once secured, can provide for a family because the pay scale is higher than most. Yet, training takes time, and most skills are learned on the job. Each foreman runs a job crew differently, so often the carpenters need to change the way they’ve always done a job to a new way that’s more efficient and time-saving—which equals bigger paychecks or bonuses.

He warned that highly skilled white-collar workers would be replaced in the near future, but that highly skilled blue-collar workers are scarce. Most parents don’t want their sons or daughters to become plumbers, electricians, HVAC installers, or appliance repair people. They want their children to go to college.

I was one of those people not too long ago. I had our pastor and dear friend—who recently passed away in July 2025—over to dinner. He was a strong Irishman who didn’t mince words. I complained after dinner that my son Nicholas, then sixteen, did not want to go to college. Earlier, we had a conversation where he wanted to know what he had to do to take over his father’s business. Father Toner looked me right in the eye and said, “Felice, of course, he shouldn’t go to college if he wants to work construction. He’d be brilliant at it!” And I realized he was right.

Nick began to apprentice a year later, and I tailored his class load to reflect his interests. He studied oceanography—something he loved. He worked on mechanics, small appliances, and tool repair. At sixteen, he had a thriving repair business for coaches at the ball field who owned landscaping businesses. He’d repair the tools for a fraction of the cost of taking them into the shop and still made over $20-25 an hour.

My oldest son also worked in construction for many years, until he opted for a job at a high-end furniture store, a role that suited him much better than construction. He made a very good salary that included generous tips. This son is my “problem child” and has switched jobs many times; he currently drives for a rideshare company, which suits his night-owl tendencies. Blue-collar work is not always easy, and many people, including my oldest, want something that is easy and pays well. This isn’t always possible. My second part podcast, which will air next, will discuss why some people have difficulty being successful in a job and it has little to do with skill.

So, what is the future of AI and blue-collar jobs? From my perspective as a homeschool mom who’s seen the value in hands-on trades through my own family’s experiences, it’s a mix of caution and hope. AI is advancing rapidly, but it’s not the doomsday scenario for every job out there. Analysts predict that while AI could affect at least 80% of the U.S. labor force by impacting 10% or more of their work tasks, blue-collar roles—especially skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC—are poised to thrive. Why? These jobs often require physical dexterity, on-site problem-solving, and human judgment that AI and robots struggle to replicate fully right now.

In fact, AI is more likely to augment these workers, making them more productive by handling data analysis, predictive maintenance, or safety monitoring in industries like utilities and farming. Think of it as a tool that saves time and reduces risks, rather than a complete replacement. Plus, with blue-collar jobs offering stability and high pay—by 2030, the U.S. will be short over 2 million skilled trade workers, leading companies to raise wages to attract talent—these careers honor the dignity of hard work and provide for families while aligning with God’s call to stewardship.

Experts warn that AI-enabled robots could start encroaching on some blue-collar areas, like basic construction or logistics, in the next decade, and broader economic shifts from AI might indirectly affect demand. But here’s the encouraging part, especially for us as Christian parents raising the next generation: As Mike Rowe points out, blue-collar shortages are real, and AI might exacerbate that by automating low-skill entry points, but it elevates the need for human expertise.

For our kids, this means focusing on trades could lead to stable, well-paying careers that align with biblical values of hard work and stewardship, like in Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings.” The key? Reskilling will be essential; by 2025, many employees might need it due to tech changes. As homeschoolers, we have the flexibility to prepare our children with practical skills now, blending faith, education, and real-world training. For more insights, check out resources like The Epoch Times articles on jobs surviving AI and Fox News on blue-collar opportunities.

To help you explore this further, here are seven additional points on vocational training while homeschooling. Each includes potential outcomes for your child (sorry the teacher in me just can’t resist!). Some of the outcomes cover building confidence, financial independence, and a sense of purpose as well as other resources tailored for Christian homeschool families.

I’ve drawn from sites that align with encouraging blue-collar paths as honorable, God-given callings, and included references to my own Vintage Homeschool Moms episodes where they fit. Please note that I do not have firsthand knowledge of all these websites; however, I am familiar with some. Please do your  own due diligence when considering these options for your family.

Start with on-the-job shadowing or formal apprenticeships in carpentry, electrical, or plumbing. In our state you can begin at sixteen, however you must complete an OSHA approved course.

Enroll in flexible online programs covering basics like mechanics or tool repair, which your teen can do alongside homeschool studies. I do not have first hand knowledge of these, other than what I read on the website, so check them out before opting in.

If you don’t have a friend or relative who can give your child on-the-job training, consider a vocational school as a post-homeschool option, focusing on blue-collar careers such as HVAC or welding.

Incorporate business skills into homeschooling, like starting a small repair or landscaping service. My children grew up with parents who own their own businesses. We have several businesses, a publishing/media company (MediaAngels.com,  United Inspection Services, a home-inspection business, and Gerwitz Construction.)

Use online platforms for simulated training in skilled trades, accessible from home.

Join homeschool co-ops or church groups offering trade workshops. Ask your neighbors, your friends in your homeschool group or your church. Does someone know someone who is interested in hosting a session for homeschoolers?

Tailor high school courses around repair, mechanics, or construction certifications.

I know many parents have changed their minds about the importance of college. And, I agree that it is not the goal for many families.

I hope this podcast has helped you sort out some of the questions you might have. Next up is a podcast that focuses on jobs, but in the sense of prerequisites that are important for students to have before entering the job force! Thanks for joining me on Vintage Homeschool Moms. Remember, whether your child pursues tech, trades, or something in between, God has a plan for their life!

Visit ultimateradioshow.com and VintageHomeschoolMoms.com for more episodes. Until next time, I’ll talk to you soon, take care, and God bless!

The post AI, Tech Jobs and Blue Collar Workers appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Homeschooling is the right choice, but how do you avoid the homeschool pitfalls that will sabotage your success? In this podcast, veteran homeschool mom Felice Gerwitz shares her thirty-two years of experience with you!

Visit the Media Angels website for books, and bundles, especially the self-paced set, “How-to-Homeschool Blueprint.”

Did you know that I was hesitant to try homeschooling? When I heard a friend mention her hopes of homeschooling, I talked her out of it! This friend was overwhelmed with her four children, didn’t have a set bedtime, and walked around sleep deprived. I explained that homeschooling took some discipline and that having a parent who was awake and attentive was important! When I began homeschooling some time after, this friend was upset with me! And, rightly so.

Your decision to homeschool should be your own, and being persuaded by someone, even someone well-meaning, is not a good thing!

Today homeschooling is the best option for your children. You know the state of the school system. It was bad in the past; today, it is worse. Parental rights are called into question. What the heck is going on in our world?

When I began homeschooling my son while my daughter was in preschool, I looked at it as a way to help my struggling learner. It was a short-term goal. In other words, I was “trying” homeschooling without thinking of making it past six months. This was in 1986-87, and I never looked back. It became a lifestyle for us, and I built relationships with my children that are strong to this day, even as they are adults.

One of the fallacies is making your homeschool ideal or identical to the public or private school. Having said this, there is always an exception to the rule. My sister-in-law homeschooled her two grandkids for a year using the same books as the school because they planned on reintegrating the children into the school system. In this case, it was a good idea, and she was not only highly successful, but she was also able to raise their test scores with the one-on-one attention she gave the girls.

It is not fun; all fun and games. A good friend of mine used to say homeschooling is not fun, yet she homeschooled her boys K-12, and they not only learned several foreign languages but were proficient in fencing. How is that not fun?

I am going to go through a list of pitfalls in two parts. The first deals with hearsay about homeschooling, and the second is in regard to the act of homeschooling. Please join our Facebook group if you have questions about homeschooling or want to connect. Homeschool Podcast Network Family

Homeschooling is what you make it. If your children are unruly, the focus needs to be getting the kids under control. Teaching cause and effect is amazingly successful. I have several podcasts in a collection I call “Just For Kids” (search for that term, and you will find them). These are geared toward children, and they are highly effective.

Kids want to be heard and appreciated, just like us! Listen to their needs and focus on the entire child, not just academics. I know you can do it, and don’t forget to join our Facebook group – Homeschool Podcast Network Family on Facebook or share your concerns in this post on the website.

The post Homeschool Pitfalls: Summer Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

When does fall learning start? It starts now. Before long, we will turn over the calendar (or swipe right or up) on a digital device and see that the holidays are approaching. We have a fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas…three in a row! What is a busy homeschool mom to do? In this episode, Felice shares how she prepares for the active months with an action plan.

Thanks to our ongoing sponsor, CTCMath.com, and their excellent math curriculum for grades K-12

How many of you have planned out your entire year until Christmas? Raise your hand. Okay, so if not, no worries, I will help! First, I recommend you get on our email list and sign up for our latest planners. I have an ongoing series of monthly Organize It Planners for the year. These planners are chock-full of tips you can implement quickly. You will receive a new topic free each month. The upcoming Organize It is for October, with information on preparing your home for the forthcoming holidays.

During the cooler months, planning things that take the children outdoors is nice. If you have younger children, you may want to add seasonal activities, such as fall crafts. You can also jumpstart the fall decorations by making paper chains using fall colors. I have some links to podcasts on the topics.

One of my favorite topics to study was trees and their types of leaves; if you’re blessed to live in the north, you have the full array of fall leaves coming soon! For those of us in the South, it means taking a trip up north or learning about these things via a book or online. Then there are the fall activities such as parties, fairs, cooking contests, and many other things that we, as homeschoolers, want to take advantage of. Often, harvest parties begin in October … then there is Thanksgiving, and around the corner, Christmas. Christmas quickly takes over the entire month of December. Between baking, shopping, and activities, there doesn’t seem to be much time left at school.

So, what is a busy mom to do? Well, the best thing I can advise is to get as much done as possible before the holidays, including school. As homeschoolers, we sometimes fit our household into our homeschool or our homeschool into our family. I’ve received emails from many people who have said when they’ve done an excellent job homeschooling, they’ve done a lousy job managing their homes, and vice versa. Well, you can do both.

So, first things first, how much time do you have?

The age-old question. Well, let’s start with this:

Now that you have an overview and overview of how to plan, let’s get going! What do you want to get done this month? With fall on the horizon or whatever the next big thing is, it is essential to use these pockets of time and focus on learning. At the beginning of each school year, you should look at the books or curriculum you plan to use and decide how long it will take you to complete in one school year. It may take six weeks or more to complete if it is a detailed unit you are studying.

Another thing to consider is using the days the kids are doing well and doubling up on activities. We did this to keep our Fridays free. In this way, we could use Fridays as a catch-up day, or we could use it for field trips or other activities we had planned. Of course, as the children get older and schoolwork piles up, it may not be as easy to have a free day a week once you can look at your priorities, the things you have to accomplish each day and work around those items.

We completed most of our homeschooling before Thanksgiving in late August, September, October, and November. After Thanksgiving, we were lucky to meet for a full two weeks with all the extra activities planned for Christmas. Of course, after Christmas was the New Year, and this was a solid vacation time.

In the new year, most of our schoolwork was in January, February, and March. Do you see a pattern here? We focused on the times between holidays and other significant events for our family. For some of you, Easter may not be a big event, but it is in our home, and we typically take a week off, a week before Easter, and a few days afterward. After Easter, all the kids can see his summer on the horizon. Therefore, working hard on days too hot or cold to go outside is essential. My children naturally do better when there are fewer distractions. I’m sure yours do as well!

I have links in the other podcasts’ show notes with great ideas for fall activities.

Past Episodes on Fall and Activities Kids Can Do:

Celebrate Fall Baking

October Checklist- 

To purchase Checklist Planners, go here.

Thanksgiving Gifts and Crafts

DIY Crafts for Kids

Great Gifts Kids Can Make

For example, fall is an excellent time for baking. We did a lot of bulk baking that we could freeze, and when the holidays came around, we had ready-made sweet bread that we could give away as gifts, cinnamon rolls, and more. There is a baking link here: Celebrate Fall Baking.

If you don’t like to bake, perhaps you like crafts. Before Christmas, we focused on making presents for grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Gifts link here.

As the winter months get closer, use this time to spend reading together as a family. Our favorite times were reading the Little House on the Prairie and other books in front of the fireplace with cups of cocoa. These are memories you can create with your family and get some learning in there as well. We often read books that went along with the themes we were studying.

I would throw in some hands-on experiential activities to round up your fall learning. If you have read any of my books (LINK HERE), you understand my need to involve the children. As a child and even an adult, I love to learn by doing. Sure, reading it in a book and moving on is more accessible, but what about authentic learning, learning things the children will remember?

Encourage your children to set time limits to get things done, especially if you have a child who takes all day to get math done. That usually means there’s nothing else the child wants to do afterward. If we give our children those to get their schoolwork done, more than likely, they will work right along. I also encourage your children to find hobbies or things they want to pursue in our family. Children my three youngest children play sports each day, and they have to spend time practicing. If your child plays a musical instrument and has another hobby, I am sure they also need time to pursue this interest.

We want to instill values that allow our children to do what is right, not just when we’re watching them. Give them opportunities to learn independently, especially if they are old enough, then make sure you check their work each day or at least every couple of days. I remember leaving their schoolwork for a week to check, and then sometimes I would be overwhelmed by all I needed to grade and be frustrated when I saw the work was half done. If I keep up with this, it’s helpful. My husband was willing at times when I was overwhelmed. He would take over the grading, and the children disliked it because he was much stricter than I was

I hope these ideas help you to accomplish and have time for all the fun activities. Be sure to visit me at mediaangels.com. Come check out our podcast family at our Facebook group, which is a homeschooled podcast family; you can look for that or search for it. If you have any questions, contact me on our FB group.

The post Fall Learning Starts Now appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Are you new to homeschooling, or perhaps entering those high school years? Do you wonder how to homeschool high school? In this episode, Felice Gerwitz and Vicki Tillman (The Homeschool Highschool Podcast) discuss how to get started and the information you need to know!

Visit Vicki Tillman and the 7-Sisters at 7SistersHomeschool.com

SO you want to know how to homeschool high school…well, you came to the right place. Today’s wonderful guest is a supercharged knowledge bank of information, Vicki Tillman!

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath – visit CTCMath.com for more information and a current offer of a free subscription. These offers tend to change so hurry to grab your set.

Be sure to check out Vicki’s list for high school students to discern what track they should take.

Vicki Tillman does everything homeschool highschool! Transcripts, encouragement, and everything in between. Vicki started homeschooling about thirty years ago and times have changed yet if there were not opportunities they started them. If there were enough of us moms we’d start co-ops or debate teams or cinematography teams and, choirs. We began an umbrella school that was registered with the state of Delaware so that the high schoolers could get a transcript approved by the state.

Homeschooling opens doors. What the universities have found in this early generation, especially my older kids is that homeschoolers know how to rock things. They know how to study, they know how to motivate themselves and they actually often have better social skills than their traditionally schooled peers. So they often were campus leaders in organizations. That is so true.

Yet parents have so many questions:

Overview of Four Years:

Career Exploration ~

Here is a list of questions high school students can ask themselves, pray and think about, from Vicki Tillman!

The post How To Homeschool High School (replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Sponsored by CTC Math.

What are some fun summer projects? What about starting a family business? Summer seems to be a good time to have fun, but it also is a great time to think about a business for the entire family. Are you ready, here are some great ideas to get you started.

Visit my website at MediaAngels.com for great books  and classes.

Years ago I gave a talk at a state homeschool conference on family businesses, and then later at a smaller conference and there was a real interest in working from home. When we fast-forward today we find that many businesses are cropping up online and are based at home. I grew up with a family that was self-employed. My parents owned a bakery…(more on podcast).

We have been conservative in our investments and our businesses and we’ve never had a business not succeed – so, I feel a little bit qualified to give you some advice about beginning a home business. There are many questions you should ask yourself and the teacher in me always starts with the questions…because it is a great place to begin.

(Details are on the podcast – here is the short list)

Our kids worked and helped in our business throughout their time as homeschoolers. There were book sales and books to pack and ship, they helped with all aspects of the business that were within their ability. One of my children, Christina (now an adult) was the co-author of a three-book series we wrote together. She learned firsthand that there is no free lunch it takes work and perseverance. There is a booth at homeschool conferences, there are speeches to write and to give, and there is selling online and websites – business cards to design and slogans or catchphrases to create. If you want something that keeps the family together and teaches a good work ethic, this is it.

Well, what do you think? Do you have the next best idea? Well then, I hope you look through these suggestions, add some of your own and let me know if I left anything out that I should have added in the comment section below –

Check out these Information in a Nutshell books about Business!

Information in a Nutshell Writing Tips – Are you passionate about your writing? Do you have an idea that may be the next best seller? Do you have a story that must be told? Do you aspire to share your experience or knowledge with others?  It took me over ten years to get my first book published, not because I didn’t have the desire, but because many books I read about the entire process left me feeling lost or overwhelmed. This book is easy to read and will give you a quick understanding with insider’s secrets and tips. Don’t wait for ten years like I did! Discover today how to turn your ideas into a published book. Learn insider’s tips from successful published authors. Don’t wait another day.  This book will give you the tools you need to jump start your writing career.

Information in a Nutshell – Business Tips and Taxes for Writers – This long awaited companion book of the Information in a Nutshell line is finally here! Authored by Carol Topp, CPA this short book packs a powerful message ~ Authors MUST know the business tips, strategies, bookkeeping and tax advice in order to keep those profits from their writing. Whether you are an author of a book, blog or magazine articles you will want to read this book from cover to cover.

The post Fun Summer Projects: Family Business and Entrepreneurs (replay) appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

As homeschoolers, our world is an open classroom. How do you include cultural learning into your homeschool? Tune in as my special guest, Leah Farish, joins me, Felice Gerwitz, on Vintage Homeschool Moms.

Sponsored by CTC Math

Leah is an award-winning attorney, author, and speaker who has not only homeschooled but represented homeschooling families.  Her podcast, Conversation Balloons, is in Spotify’s Top 25% and is on YouTube and all the other main platforms.  Her website is LeahFarish.com

Leah shares her journey from a legal career to homeschooling her children, emphasizing the value of cultural learning. We explore how cultural exposure can enhance a child’s education, broadening a homeschooling approach. Cultural learning is often overlooked in traditional education, but homeschooling offers unique opportunities to integrate it meaningfully. Leah’s background as a homeschooling parent and her passion for cultural diversity provide a compelling case for why this topic matters.

Leah never planned to homeschool. As a former attorney and certified teacher, she trusted professional educators—her family was full of them! But when her son’s Montessori school didn’t meet his needs, she felt called to take charge. We hear how she balanced her legal career with homeschooling by focusing on what only she could offer her kids and delegating the rest, like driving to art classes. Her story is a great example for busy parents wondering how to make homeschooling work.

Leah’s childhood travels with her pilot father sparked her love for other cultures, and she wanted her kids to share that appreciation. We explore how learning about different people and traditions builds humility and respect for your own heritage while opening kids’ eyes to the world. It’s about helping them grow into thoughtful, curious individuals who value the beauty of diversity.

Leah shares creative ideas for making cultural learning a part of homeschooling. From hosting international students for dinner to throwing a Brazilian culture party with 50 kids, she shows how to make learning hands-on and fun. We hear stories of her kids meeting people from Syria, China, and beyond, tasting new foods, and asking quirky questions like, “Do they spank kids in Brazil?” These tips are perfect for parents looking to spark their kids’ curiosity about the world.

Language learning and cultural immersion go hand in hand, and Leah’s family embraced both. We laugh over her kids’ attempts to learn Chinese and their mission trip to Mexico, where her daughter declared, “I love my language!” These moments show how homeschooling lets you personalize cultural experiences, whether it’s practicing Spanish with new friends or discovering unique traditions like fencing as a sport.

Leah and Felice talk about the spiritual side of cultural learning, like attending a worship service on a ski slope or visiting St. Peter’s in Rome. We see how these experiences teach kids about the unity of faith across cultures and strengthen family values. Whether it’s exploring a local synagogue or a Greek Orthodox church, these moments help kids connect with their beliefs and the world around them.

Leah, with her legal background, sheds light on the challenges some homeschoolers face as lawmakers push for more oversight. We discuss truancy laws and the need to know your state’s rules—check out HSLDA’s website for details. Her insights help parents feel confident in their rights while navigating the system, especially in states where homeschooling feels under threat.

Homeschooling fosters independence and creativity, and Leah points to studies showing homeschoolers are more likely to vote and volunteer. We also learn how some states let homeschoolers join public school sports or music programs, giving kids the best of both worlds. It’s all about finding local resources to make your kids’ education well-rounded and connected.

Leah wraps up by reflecting on the legacy of homeschooling. We hear how following her instincts and faith led to a rewarding experience for her family. Her story inspires parents to trust their gut and create an education that blends cultural learning with their unique values, leaving a lasting impact on their kids.

Felice closes the episode with a call to explore cultural learning at Vintage Homeschool Moms. Check out Leah’s podcast, Conversation Balloons, and visit her website at leahfarish.com for more. Subscribe to the podcast, share it with friends, and start bringing the world into your homeschool today!

The post Cultural Learning, Homeschooling and More appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.