Search Results for: homeschooling high school

Homeschooling High School Isn’t As Hard As You Think

May 12, 2026 by Leave a Comment

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

Try a free week →
📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling High School

Does the thought of homeschooling high school make you feel panicked?

Maybe you’re wondering:

    • Will my teen be prepared for college?
    • What about transcripts?
    • What if I’m not qualified enough?
    • Will my teen miss out socially?

You are not alone.

In this episode of The Homeschool Sanity Show, I’m talking with Rachel Kovac, homeschooling mom of six and author of Their Future is Shining Bright, about the fears parents have about homeschooling high school—and why many of those fears simply aren’t true.

Rachel shares practical encouragement for parents considering homeschooling through the teen years, including transcripts, dual enrollment, career preparation, relationships, and socialization.

This episode sponsored by CTCMath.com

 

Watch on YouTube
Read the transcript

Sanity Shortcut

Homeschooling high school does not mean recreating school at home.

Instead, think of it as creating a customized path for your teen—one that can include:

    • dual enrollment,
    • internships,
    • certification programs,
    • apprenticeships,
    • online classes,
    • entrepreneurship,
    • travel,
    • mentoring,
    • and meaningful family connection.

You do not need to have every detail figured out before you begin. You just need to take the next step.

In This Episode

In our conversation, Rachel and I discuss:

    • The biggest myths parents believe about homeschooling high school
    • Why transcripts are easier than most parents think
    • How to create high school credits from your teen’s interests
    • Preparing students for college and non-college career paths
    • Scholarships, AP courses, and competitive college admissions
    • Why homeschoolers often have more flexibility and opportunities
    • What socialization really looks like for homeschool teens
    • How homeschooling high school can strengthen family relationships
    • Helping teens process worldviews that differ from your family’s values

Resources Mentioned

📘 Their Future is Shining Bright by Rachel Kovac

🌐 Rachel’s website: RachelKovac.com

📄 Rachel’s transcript template and homeschool resources

📱 Instagram: @RachelStitchTogether

Encouragement for Nervous Parents

One thing I especially appreciated in this conversation was Rachel’s reminder that fear doesn’t mean you’re incapable.

Many of us who now love homeschooling started out convinced we couldn’t do it.

And honestly? Homeschooling high school gave me some of the richest conversations and strongest relationships I’ve had with my kids.

If you’re considering homeschooling through high school, I hope this episode gives you both practical help and renewed confidence.

Share This Episode

If this episode encouraged you, would you share it with a homeschooling friend who’s nervous about the high school years?

You might be the reason she takes the next step toward homeschooling with less frustration and more confidence.

Other Episodes on High School

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Homeschooling High School: A Mission Worth Taking for Military Families

October 23, 2025 by Leave a Comment

Crystal Niehoff shares how homeschooling high school can actually be one of the most rewarding and freeing decisions for military parents and their teens.Homeschooling High School: A Mission Worth Taking for Military Families

Homeschooling high school can sound intimidating—especially for military families who already juggle deployments, PCS moves, and ever-changing routines. But in this encouraging episode of the Military Homeschool Moms Podcast, host Crystal Niehoff shares how homeschooling high school can actually be one of the most rewarding and freeing decisions for military parents and their teens.

Crystal explains how the flexibility of homeschooling fits perfectly with the unpredictable rhythm of military life. From overseas assignments to homecomings, homeschooling allows families to maintain consistency, no matter where duty calls. Teens can take their education anywhere, adjust schedules around deployments, and even turn travel experiences into hands-on learning opportunities.

Listeners will also hear how homeschooling provides academic freedom and personalized learning, letting parents shape education around their teen’s strengths, interests, and faith. Crystal discusses how homeschoolers thrive in college and the workforce thanks to their adaptability, independence, and critical thinking skills—qualities that come naturally to military kids!

Crystal then shares about Venus and Serena Williams, two world-renowned athletes who were homeschooled throughout their high school years. Their parents chose homeschooling so the girls could focus on both academics and tennis training while maintaining strong family values. That decision not only gave them flexibility but also helped shape their discipline, confidence, and focus—qualities that made them champions both on and off the court.

Listeners will come away reminded that homeschooling high school isn’t just about academics—it’s about building character, faith, and family bonds that will last a lifetime.

Resources Mentioned

🎧 Tune in to hear why homeschooling high school as a military family isn’t a burden—it’s a blessing! Subscribe and share this episode to encourage another military mom who might be wondering if she can do it too.

 

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CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School- Replay

August 25, 2025 by Leave a Comment
📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling High School

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School- Replay!

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

Vicki was SO excited to chat with her new friend, CJ of Homeschooling Through High School! CJ has a wonderful YouTube channel full of helpful, fun and authentic posts about homeschooling high school. She (and sometimes, her delightful family) have so many cool ideas and insights on resources.

The teenage years are often thought of as tumultuous and unpredictable, making the idea of homeschooling a teenager seem like a daunting one. There can be an initial skepticism about homeschooling in the high school years – from both newer homeschool parents and teens – regarding its potential to meet the educational needs of teenagers. Many parents worry that their children will miss out on social interactions and opportunities for growth.

Well, as today’s special guest, CJ shares her personal story of how she went from being skeptical about homeschooling to becoming a passionate advocate. Join us as we explore the reasons behind her decision and discover some valuable tips for homeschooling high school successfully!

Unveiling the CJ’s Homeschooling Journey

CJ begins her story by admitting that she used to think homeschooling was only for weird folks. I think we’ve all been there at this point, right? However, fate had other plans for CJ when she met a homeschooled young man who would later become her husband. 

But as time went on, she found herself pregnant with our first child and that’s when things started to change for her. The world seemed to be getting out of control with schools cutting out art and music and prayer – all the values she grew up with were slowly disappearing. 

Despite her initial resistance, CJ found herself reconsidering homeschooling as a viable option. She realized the importance of instilling Christian values and character into her children’s education. She wanted to give her future kids a solid Christian education, and paying for private school for each child was just not feasible. 

After much contemplation, her and her husband had a light bulb moment and decided to take the plunge into homeschooling. 

“Yep, the one who swore she’d never do it became a homeschooling mama.” – CJ

When her oldest hit middle school, the reality of high school started to sink in. CJ noticed a trend where many parents throw in the towel at middle school and would send their kids off back to public school during the high school years. A lot of reasons for this is due to the lack of confidence in themselves for teaching high school material as well as the overabundance of oppressive doubt in doing a job well done. 

And if this is the way that’s best for your family – going to pubic school high school when it’s time – there is nothing wrong with this if that’s what fits your family. However, for CJ, she had gained so much confidence during the middle school years that she just knew she could handle high school too. And she knew that she could always look for the very many homeschool high school resources available these days so she didn’t have to do it all alone. 

Tips for Homeschooling High School Successfully

It’s through these CJ’s researching, experiencing, and others’ resources that she learned so much about homeschooling during the high school years. From planning out the classes to teaching (or not teaching!) certain classes, there are so many incredible ways to homeschool your high school – it’s not all cookie cutter! 

Here are a few of CJ’s most valuable tips for homeschooling your high schooler:

Build a Strong Relationship

CJ emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. This is key. Sometimes, it’s essential to prioritize bonding over academics. Taking a break from algebra to enjoy a fun outing or simply spending quality time together can do wonders for both the child’s well-being and the homeschooling experience.

“The relationship you have with your child is more important than any subject you’ll ever teach.” – CJ

“The relationship you have with your child is more important than any subject you'll ever teach.” - CJ

Weekly Meetings

Treat yourself as the mentor and guidance counselor for your high schooler. Have regular check-ins to discuss their progress, address any challenges, and provide support. These meetings encourage open communication, help identify areas that require improvement, and allow for spiritual growth. 

Utilize Resources

You don’t have to do it all. CJ dispels the misconception that homeschooling through high school requires mastering every subject. There are numerous resources available, including free curriculum options, co-ops, enrichment programs, and knowledgeable individuals within the community who can supplement your teaching. Outsourcing subjects that may be outside your expertise ensures a well-rounded education for your child.

And hey, if your neighbor happens to be a surgeon and wants to teach biology, why not take advantage of that? It’s all about finding what works for you and your child.

Dual Enrollment

Consider dual enrollment in local community colleges or online schools for your high schooler. This option allows them to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. 

However, it’s essential to evaluate whether your child is ready for the challenges of college-level coursework and if it aligns with their goals and maturity level.

Embracing the Teen Years

Remember what we said at the beginning of this blog post? About how most parents refer to the “dreaded teenage years” as doom and gloom? CJ encourages parents to shed that negative chatter surrounding the teenage years. 

Despite the stereotypes, she found the high school years to be a blast – some of the most enjoyable and rewarding years of her homeschooling. Why? Because teenagers are capable of engaging in meaningful conversations, exploring their identities, and building strong connections with their parents. 

Surrounding you and your teen with like-minded individuals who are uplifting and supportive can make these high school teen years even more fulfilling.

​​CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

Homeschooling through high school may seem daunting, but CJ’s story proves that with determination, support, a few well-utilized resources, and running with the confidence you built over the younger years, it can be a truly enriching experience. By prioritizing relationships, maintaining open communication, and embracing the unique opportunities homeschooling offers, you can guide your high schooler to success!

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Reach out to the homeschooling community, tap into available resources, and enjoy the journey of homeschooling through high school. You can make the high school years a rewarding and memorable experience for your children. 

Connect with CJ

If you’re considering homeschooling your high schooler or are already on this exciting journey, be sure to check out CJ’s Homeschooling Through High School YouTube channel for more tips, inspiration, and encouragement on homeschooling through high school.

Also, you’ll love her review of 7Sisters Animal Farm Literature Study Guide.


Thank you to Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

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Homeschooling High School with Twins with Ticia Messing

April 22, 2025 by Leave a Comment
📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling High School

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Homeschooling High School with Twins with Ticia Messing.

Homeschooling High School with Twins with Ticia Messing

Homeschooling High School with Twins with Ticia Messing

Sometimes we meet a new homeschooling mom who is concerned that she won’t be able to handle high school with twins. Homeschooling twins is its own thing, for sure! However, we have got good news! You can do this!

This week on the podcast, we talked with our friend, Ticia Messing from Adventures in a Messy Life, about her experiences with homeschooling high school with twins! She homeschooled her kids all the way through graduation, so she has some good advice.

Ticia has three kids, twenty months apart. She started off with twins. That was a big surprise because twins did not run in her family.

Ticia and her husband started homeschooling with preschool, just to see if they would like it. They loved it and homeschooled all the way through.

Ticia is a big fan of Hands-on Learning

Ticia says that she is “very ADHD, really messy and engaging”. Fortunately, her kids were also active, so they kept a very active homeschool. (She also had short lessons with her kids because I had a short attention span, too.)

Her family loves reading, so their high school years included lots of reading, and whenever possible, a book and a movie (here’s how Ticia does books with movies).

Ticia kept a reading list for her teens to choose from:

  • Some were books that she liked and wanted them to read.
  • Others were books that she did not like but she thought it was important for them to read.

Dual enrollment

Her teens had dual enrollment for courses that caught their interest at the local community college. Dual enrollment was also useful for courses that Ticia did not feel comfortable teaching.

In fact, her daughter enjoyed her dual enrollment courses so much that she had enough credits to graduate from high school a year early. She was able to start her four-year college as a junior.

Developing interests

One of the best things about homeschooling high school was helping her teens explore and develop interests. One of her sons was interested in business. He started working at a local Taco Bell. By the time he graduated from high school, he was a manager.

Then his twin was interesting in serving in the military. He spent time during high school exploring the branches of the military and preparing body and mind for service. He enlisted in the army after graduation.

Her daughter had interests in several areas. She could explore these areas by various volunteer projects and awards projects:

  • Stars and Stripes award for American Heritage Girls
  • She rebuilt a greenhouse for a therapy care farm as well as volunteering there in other ways (this led to her interest in studying psychology)

The challenge is having three three teens at the same time, two of them being twins

Homeschooling high school with twins (and even, three teens) CAN be done!

Here are some of Ticia’s tips

For Ticia, doing as many subjects together (with all three teens at the same time) was a life saver! They especially enjoyed woring on English/Language Arts and History together. One project they worked on together was learning to be comfortable with timed essays.

Include lots of field trips! It’s a great way to earn credit by logging hours.

Work on some projects together, such as one of Ticia’s favorites: Mummifying a chicken.

Giving  them independent projects for what they were interested in was important for her teens to develop self-confidence skills.

  • One teen studied an introduction to engineering
  • Another invested in his cooking skills
  • Her daughter invested in creative writing projects and even wrote a book!

So, really, homeschooling high school with twins is not a lot different than homeschooling middle school or homeschooling elementary school. It’s work but it’s worth it!

Best advice of all:

Ticia says that one of the joys of homeschooling high school is we do not have to do it a certain way. We do what’s best for our teens!

Homeschooling high school: you can do this!

You can find Ticia at Adventures in a Messy Life, or on Instagram @TiciaM.

Join Vicki and Ticia for a rollicking conversation about homeschooling high school with twins!

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Bring Fun into Homeschooling High School with Online Vocabulary Games

October 23, 2024 by Leave a Comment

Teaching vocabulary doesn’t have to be boring! If you’re a homeschooling parent, you know that keeping your high schooler engaged can sometimes feel like a challenge. However, online vocabulary games offer a great solution to boost learning while having fun. They bring energy, excitement, and variety into your daily lessons, helping teens improve their language skills without feeling like they’re stuck in traditional drills. In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to use online vocabulary games in your homeschool and highlight some excellent options to get started.

This post is sponsored by our 11th Birthday Sponsors. Visit our Birthday Page, check out the sponsors, and get the 100 Activities for Kids of Any Age Ebook for free!

Why Use Online Vocabulary Games in Homeschooling?

High school students need a strong vocabulary to excel in reading comprehension, writing, and standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. However, many teens find learning new words tedious. Integrating online vocabulary games makes learning interactive and fun while reinforcing essential language skills.

These games also foster independent learning, which is perfect for homeschooling families. Students can work through challenges at their own pace, earning rewards or leveling up as they play. Not only do these games keep things fresh, but they also help develop problem-solving skills and creativity.

How Vocabulary Games Benefit High School Homeschoolers

1. Boost Test Prep with Less Stress

Preparing for college entrance exams can feel overwhelming, but games like Magoosh Vocabulary Builder and Quizlet make SAT and ACT prep less intimidating. These platforms gamify vocabulary study by offering flashcards, timed challenges, and progress tracking, making learning manageable and enjoyable.

2. Encourage Self-Directed Learning

High schoolers thrive when given the freedom to learn independently. Platforms like Vocabulary.com and Flocabulary allow students to explore new words on their own, with engaging quizzes, multimedia lessons, and personalized word lists based on their interests and curriculum.

3. Create Memorable Family Time

Games like Scrabble GO and Words With Friends 2 offer opportunities for family word battles. Bringing the whole family together around vocabulary games creates a fun learning environment that strengthens communication skills. Plus, friendly competition adds excitement to otherwise ordinary lessons.

4. Introduce Variety with Seasonal Themes

Games such as ABCya’s Holiday Word Games or Education.com’s Monster Vocab Game align with seasonal themes, adding variety to your homeschool schedule. Incorporating themed word activities around holidays keeps students engaged throughout the year.

Top Online Vocabulary Games for High School Homeschoolers

  1. Freerice – Students learn new words while giving back, as every correct answer donates grains of rice through the World Food Programme. It’s a win-win that also encourages empathy.
  2. Kahoot! – This interactive platform offers live quizzes that can be customized for vocabulary practice. It’s great for group play, whether you’re working with siblings or a homeschool co-op.
  3. Vocabulary.com – With personalized quizzes and progress tracking, this site adapts to each learner’s pace, reinforcing vocabulary skills through repetition and interactive learning.
  4. Bananagrams Online – A fast-paced word-building game that challenges students to think quickly and creatively. This game adds an element of fun to spelling and vocabulary lessons.
  5. No Red Ink – This tool blends vocabulary and grammar practice, making it easy to reinforce word usage in writing assignments.

How to Incorporate Online Vocabulary Games into Your Homeschool Routine

  1. Start Each Day with a Quick Game
    Kick off the school day with a short game like Wordle or a few rounds on Freerice. These five-minute activities warm up your teen’s brain and set a positive tone for learning.
  2. Use Games for Brain Breaks
    Online games like Boggle With Friends or Hangman are excellent brain break options that keep your student engaged while providing a mental reset between lessons.
  3. Assign Games as Independent Learning
    Let your student explore vocabulary at their own pace using apps like Flocabulary or Quizlet. Encourage them to track their progress and celebrate milestones along the way.
  4. Incorporate Games into Writing Assignments
    Challenge your student to use new words from their games in essays or journals. This reinforces vocabulary acquisition and strengthens writing skills simultaneously.
  5. Host Family Game Nights with Word Games
    Plan regular family game nights featuring vocabulary-based games like Scattergories or Codenames. These activities offer a fun way to bond and learn together, helping teens sharpen their word skills in a relaxed environment.

The Bottom Line: Making Vocabulary Learning Fun and Effective

Online vocabulary games are a fantastic way to add excitement to your homeschooling routine. They turn vocabulary learning into a fun and interactive experience, giving high schoolers the tools they need to succeed academically while reducing stress and boredom. Whether you’re preparing for the SAT, fostering independent learning, or just looking for creative ways to engage your teen, these games will become a valuable part of your homeschool toolbox.

So, go ahead and explore the wide variety of vocabulary games available online. With options for every learning style and interest, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your homeschool. And the best part? You’ll be equipping your high schooler with lifelong language skills—while having a lot of fun along the way!

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Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack- Special Replay

May 13, 2024 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack- Special Replay.

Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack- Special Replay

Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack

Vicki and Natalie are so excited to finally connect! We have been waiting to connect to share Natalie’s expertise on homeschooling high school!

Natalie Mack is a retired Navy chaplain’s spouse (after thirty-four years of service). She is a passion military spouse advocate because she knows that the military spouses are the ones who are holding military bases and military families together. The whole family serves!

Not only that, but she is a homeschool mom (who is a passionate advocate for all homeschooling families- and especially military homeschooling families). She has five kids.

  • Her oldest graduated from Liberty University and George Washington University (Masters in International Education- fluent in Mandarin and conversational in Russian). She is currently an International Baccalaureate coordinator for the Washington DC public school system.
  • Natalie’s second daughter is a “kick-butt soccer athlete” who played Division One soccer for Liberty University. She recently completed her Masters in Social Work at Howard University. Besides preparing for her social work career, she is also on a professional indoor soccer player.
  • Her oldest son graduated from American University’s School of International Service. He worked on a Congressional campaign for a season and is now working for a nonprofit.
  • Natalie’s second son is an Honor College student at George Mason University, a Bonners scholar there.
  • Her youngest son is fifteen. He is kind of like an only child now because his siblings are all in college or beyond.

Despite being down to one high schooler at home, Natalie is still super busy. When her kids asked her why she was still so busy, she told them that she is finally doing all the things she could not do when she was homeschooling five kids as a military wife. This is a new season but there is no time to sit around eating bonbons!

These days, when she is not working on lessons with her youngest, Natalie is:

Advice from Natalie about homeschooling high school:

Natalie has gained lots of wisdom over many years of homeschooling high school! Here are a few.

When things feel thankless, remember that someday your teens will be grown up- they will thank you then

Natalie knows from experience. Sometimes homeschool days can be thankless. On those days, you have to keep on keeping on- putting one foot in front of the other. You will make it. You can do this!

Trust the process

You may feel like you are venturing into the unknown when you start homeschooling high school. That is okay. You can do this. Try not to get overwhelmed by the newness of it all (and the fears of failure). You can trust the process where you are learning how to homeschool high school right along with your teens.

Take time to enjoy your teens.

Take time to enjoy your teens

Of course, while your teens are in high school, academics are priority. However, try not to get so focused on those academics that you do not have time to enjoy your teens. Who says that every day you have to max it out till four o’clock? If you and your teens work on academics intensely all day, every day, you (and your kids) will not have anything left to give.

Use the flexibility of homeschooling to take time to enjoy. You will want your teens to still like you (and it is hard for them to do that if they feel burned out).

There will be bad days when no schooling gets done

No one will go to hell just because it is a rotten day and schoolwork needs to be set aside. Tomorrow is a new day full of grace for you and your teens. You can model resilience for your teens- it is a GREAT life skill.

So on terrible, no-good, very-bad days, remember grace and fresh starts tomorrow!

Join a support group

Natalie knows how the support groups have been important for her homeschool success and encouragement. She suggests to look for:

Remember lots of prayer

Prayer is the key to success! You need God’s strength, grace and peace for the homeschool high school journey! God is there to helpl.

Join Vicki and Natalie for a good dose of encouragement and some tips for homeschooling high school!

Also check out these Homeschool Highschool Podcast episodes if you have a teen who is thinking about a military career:

AND check out Natalie’s Ted Talk about homeschooling!

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Navigating Electives: A Guide for Homeschooling High School Students

December 5, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Selecting the right electives can transform the high school experience for homeschoolers.Choosing electives can be both an exciting and daunting task for homeschooling high school students and their parents. Electives are not just filler courses; they are essential in shaping a well-rounded education, exploring interests, and preparing for future careers or college. In this post, we’ll explore how to make informed decisions when selecting electives.

Understanding the Role of Electives:

Electives play a crucial role in the high school curriculum. They provide students the chance to delve into subjects outside the core academic courses, helping them discover new passions, develop practical skills, and gain a broader perspective on the world. Whether it’s art, technology, or a foreign language, electives can significantly enhance a student’s educational experience.

1. Assessing Interests and Goals to Choose Electives:

The first step in choosing electives is to consider your child’s interests and long-term goals. Does your student show an inclination towards creative arts, sciences, or languages? Understanding these preferences is key. For instance, a student interested in a business career might benefit from courses like Entrepreneurship or Accounting 101, while a future scientist might prefer Genetics or a New Testament Survey for those inclined towards theology or religious studies.

2. Exploring Career Paths:

Electives can be a gateway to potential careers. Courses like Career Exploration or The Copywriting Experience offer practical insights into specific professions, helping students make informed decisions about their future. Encourage your student to try courses that align with their potential career interests.

3. Developing Essential Life Skills:

Some electives focus on life skills that are valuable regardless of career choice. Courses such as Economics or Political Literature & Comp not only provide academic knowledge but also teach critical thinking, financial literacy, and a better understanding of the world.

4. Balancing Academics and Personal Growth:

While aligning electives with academic and career goals is important, personal growth should not be overlooked. Encourage your student to choose at least one elective purely for personal interest or enjoyment, like Art 2 or Foreign Language Exploration. This balance ensures a well-rounded education and keeps learning enjoyable.

5. Utilizing Resources:

Take advantage of resources like True North Homeschool Academy, which offers a diverse range of electives tailored for homeschooling students. From Expedition Africa for younger students to Essay Extravaganza for aspiring writers, these courses are designed to meet various interests and academic needs.

Selecting the right electives can transform the high school experience for homeschoolers. It’s about striking a balance between academic rigor, personal interests, and future aspirations. By carefully considering their interests, career goals, and personal growth, homeschooling students can choose electives that enrich their education and prepare them for the future.

Remember, the journey through high school is as much about discovery as it is about education. Choose electives that inspire, challenge, and excite your student, and watch them thrive in their unique educational path.

Here’s a glimpse of our Spring lineup at True North Homeschool Academy:

  1. Entrepreneurship: Unleash your business potential. Learn more
  2. Genetics: Dive into the fascinating world of DNA and inheritance. Explore here
  3. Essay Extravaganza: Hone your writing skills for academic excellence. Discover more
  4. Foreign Language Exploration: Embark on a linguistic adventure. Start exploring
  5. Expedition Africa (Elementary): Journey through the wonders of Africa. Join the expedition
  6. Accounting 101: Master the fundamentals of accounting. Enroll now
  7. Career Exploration: Discover your future career path. Begin exploring
  8. Art 2: Advance your artistic journey. Sign up here
  9. Economics: Understand the dynamics of economies. Dive deeper
  10. The Copywriting Experience: Craft compelling content. Learn more
  11. New Testament Survey (Junior High): Explore the New Testament’s richness. Explore here
  12. Political Literature & Comp: Analyze the interplay of politics and literature. Discover more

Special Offer! We also have exclusive one-semester bundles available, providing a comprehensive learning experience tailored to your needs. Check out our bundles

Mrs. Nehring the voice behind the Life Skills 101 Podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network and is the Director of True North Homeschool Academy.

She is loved by parents for her ability to provide them with a strategic plan for their homeschool through coaching and advising.

Her vision for the implementation of the SAMR Method of education to the homeschool world has resulted in a one-of-a-kind education experience at TNHA.

She also operates It’s Not That Hard to Homeschool and Blue Collar Homeschooling.

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CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

August 8, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School!

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

Vicki was SO excited to chat with her new friend, CJ of Homeschooling Through High School! CJ has a wonderful YouTube channel full of helpful, fun and authentic posts about homeschooling high school. She (and sometimes, her delightful family) have so many cool ideas and insights on resources.

The teenage years are often thought of as tumultuous and unpredictable, making the idea of homeschooling a teenager seem like a daunting one. There can be an initial skepticism about homeschooling in the high school years – from both newer homeschool parents and teens – regarding its potential to meet the educational needs of teenagers. Many parents worry that their children will miss out on social interactions and opportunities for growth.

Well, as today’s special guest, CJ shares her personal story of how she went from being skeptical about homeschooling to becoming a passionate advocate. Join us as we explore the reasons behind her decision and discover some valuable tips for homeschooling high school successfully!

Unveiling the CJ’s Homeschooling Journey

CJ begins her story by admitting that she used to think homeschooling was only for weird folks. I think we’ve all been there at this point, right? However, fate had other plans for CJ when she met a homeschooled young man who would later become her husband. 

But as time went on, she found herself pregnant with our first child and that’s when things started to change for her. The world seemed to be getting out of control with schools cutting out art and music and prayer – all the values she grew up with were slowly disappearing. 

Despite her initial resistance, CJ found herself reconsidering homeschooling as a viable option. She realized the importance of instilling Christian values and character into her children’s education. She wanted to give her future kids a solid Christian education, and paying for private school for each child was just not feasible. 

After much contemplation, her and her husband had a light bulb moment and decided to take the plunge into homeschooling. 

“Yep, the one who swore she’d never do it became a homeschooling mama.” – CJ

When her oldest hit middle school, the reality of high school started to sink in. CJ noticed a trend where many parents throw in the towel at middle school and would send their kids off back to public school during the high school years. A lot of reasons for this is due to the lack of confidence in themselves for teaching high school material as well as the overabundance of oppressive doubt in doing a job well done. 

And if this is the way that’s best for your family – going to pubic school high school when it’s time – there is nothing wrong with this if that’s what fits your family. However, for CJ, she had gained so much confidence during the middle school years that she just knew she could handle high school too. And she knew that she could always look for the very many homeschool high school resources available these days so she didn’t have to do it all alone. 

Tips for Homeschooling High School Successfully

It’s through these CJ’s researching, experiencing, and others’ resources that she learned so much about homeschooling during the high school years. From planning out the classes to teaching (or not teaching!) certain classes, there are so many incredible ways to homeschool your high school – it’s not all cookie cutter! 

Here are a few of CJ’s most valuable tips for homeschooling your high schooler:

Build a Strong Relationship

CJ emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. This is key. Sometimes, it’s essential to prioritize bonding over academics. Taking a break from algebra to enjoy a fun outing or simply spending quality time together can do wonders for both the child’s well-being and the homeschooling experience.

“The relationship you have with your child is more important than any subject you’ll ever teach.” – CJ

“The relationship you have with your child is more important than any subject you'll ever teach.” - CJ

Weekly Meetings

Treat yourself as the mentor and guidance counselor for your high schooler. Have regular check-ins to discuss their progress, address any challenges, and provide support. These meetings encourage open communication, help identify areas that require improvement, and allow for spiritual growth. 

Utilize Resources

You don’t have to do it all. CJ dispels the misconception that homeschooling through high school requires mastering every subject. There are numerous resources available, including free curriculum options, co-ops, enrichment programs, and knowledgeable individuals within the community who can supplement your teaching. Outsourcing subjects that may be outside your expertise ensures a well-rounded education for your child.

And hey, if your neighbor happens to be a surgeon and wants to teach biology, why not take advantage of that? It’s all about finding what works for you and your child.

Dual Enrollment

Consider dual enrollment in local community colleges or online schools for your high schooler. This option allows them to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. 

However, it’s essential to evaluate whether your child is ready for the challenges of college-level coursework and if it aligns with their goals and maturity level.

Embracing the Teen Years

Remember what we said at the beginning of this blog post? About how most parents refer to the “dreaded teenage years” as doom and gloom? CJ encourages parents to shed that negative chatter surrounding the teenage years. 

Despite the stereotypes, she found the high school years to be a blast – some of the most enjoyable and rewarding years of her homeschooling. Why? Because teenagers are capable of engaging in meaningful conversations, exploring their identities, and building strong connections with their parents. 

Surrounding you and your teen with like-minded individuals who are uplifting and supportive can make these high school teen years even more fulfilling.

​​CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

Homeschooling through high school may seem daunting, but CJ’s story proves that with determination, support, a few well-utilized resources, and running with the confidence you built over the younger years, it can be a truly enriching experience. By prioritizing relationships, maintaining open communication, and embracing the unique opportunities homeschooling offers, you can guide your high schooler to success!

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Reach out to the homeschooling community, tap into available resources, and enjoy the journey of homeschooling through high school. You can make the high school years a rewarding and memorable experience for your children. 

Connect with CJ

If you’re considering homeschooling your high schooler or are already on this exciting journey, be sure to check out CJ’s Homeschooling Through High School YouTube channel for more tips, inspiration, and encouragement on homeschooling through high school.

Also, you’ll love her review of 7Sisters Animal Farm Literature Study Guide.

 

Thank you to Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

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Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack

July 26, 2022 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack.

Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack

Tips for Homeschooling High School, Interview with Natalie Mack

Vicki and Natalie are so excited to finally connect! We have been waiting to connect to share Natalie’s expertise on homeschooling high school!

Natalie Mack is a retired Navy chaplain’s spouse (after thirty-four years of service). She is a passion military spouse advocate because she knows that the military spouses are the ones who are holding military bases and military families together. The whole family serves!

Not only that, but she is a homeschool mom (who is a passionate advocate for all homeschooling families- and especially military homeschooling families). She has five kids.

  • Her oldest graduated from Liberty University and George Washington University (Masters in International Education- fluent in Mandarin and conversational in Russian). She is currently an International Baccalaureate coordinator for the Washington DC public school system.
  • Natalie’s second daughter is a “kick-butt soccer athlete” who played Division One soccer for Liberty University. She recently completed her Masters in Social Work at Howard University. Besides preparing for her social work career, she is also on a professional indoor soccer player.
  • Her oldest son graduated from American University’s School of International Service. He worked on a Congressional campaign for a season and is now working for a nonprofit.
  • Natalie’s second son is an Honor College student at George Mason University, a Bonners scholar there.
  • Her youngest son is fifteen. He is kind of like an only child now because his siblings are all in college or beyond.

Despite being down to one high schooler at home, Natalie is still super busy. When her kids asked her why she was still so busy, she told them that she is finally doing all the things she could not do when she was homeschooling five kids as a military wife. This is a new season but there is no time to sit around eating bonbons!

These days, when she is not working on lessons with her youngest, Natalie is:

Advice from Natalie about homeschooling high school:

Natalie has gained lots of wisdom over many years of homeschooling high school! Here are a few.

When things feel thankless, remember that someday your teens will be grown up- they will thank you then

Natalie knows from experience. Sometimes homeschool days can be thankless. On those days, you have to keep on keeping on- putting one foot in front of the other. You will make it. You can do this!

Trust the process

You may feel like you are venturing into the unknown when you start homeschooling high school. That is okay. You can do this. Try not to get overwhelmed by the newness of it all (and the fears of failure). You can trust the process where you are learning how to homeschool high school right along with your teens.

Take time to enjoy your teens.

Take time to enjoy your teens

Of course, while your teens are in high school, academics are priority. However, try not to get so focused on those academics that you do not have time to enjoy your teens. Who says that every day you have to max it out till four o’clock? If you and your teens work on academics intensely all day, every day, you (and your kids) will not have anything left to give.

Use the flexibility of homeschooling to take time to enjoy. You will want your teens to still like you (and it is hard for them to do that if they feel burned out).

There will be bad days when no schooling gets done

No one will go to hell just because it is a rotten day and schoolwork needs to be set aside. Tomorrow is a new day full of grace for you and your teens. You can model resilience for your teens- it is a GREAT life skill.

So on terrible, no-good, very-bad days, remember grace and fresh starts tomorrow!

Join a support group

Natalie knows how the support groups have been important for her homeschool success and encouragement. She suggests to look for:

Remember lots of prayer

Prayer is the key to success! You need God’s strength, grace and peace for the homeschool high school journey! God is there to helpl.

Join Vicki and Natalie for a good dose of encouragement and some tips for homeschooling high school!

Also check out these Homeschool Highschool Podcast episodes if you have a teen who is thinking about a military career:

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Homeschool Humor: A Lifeline for Homeschooling High School

May 24, 2022 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Homeschool Humor: A Lifeline for Homeschooling High School.

Homeschool Humor: A Lifeline for Homeschooling High School

Homeschool Humor: A Lifeline for Homeschooling High School

Laughter is the best medicine! When you want to make the best of homeschooling your teens, working in some daily humor helps. Sabrina, Vicki and Kym talk about why humor helps learning work better and how to cook up some merriment!

We all know that Scripture says:

A merry heart does good like a medicine. (Proverbs 17:22)

Amazingly, research has found out that this is true. Funny how God had it right the whole time 🙂

Anyway, when we laugh our brains release happy hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin.

These hormones not only help you feel happier but they literally boost your immune system. Thus, laughter helps your physical body be healthier!

Not only that, but laughter aids learning.

When our kids receive information when they have been laughing, their brains hold that information better. Laughter helps part of our memory center (the hippocampus) work more efficiently.

(Queue the rabbit-hole giggles of Sabrina, Vicki and Kym visualizing a happy hippo with his graduation cap at hippo graduation from the campus of his hippo school…)

Kym gives the example of her homeschool umbrella-school Spanish class. She has them memorize Bible verses in Spanish. Recently one included the phrase “sobrepasa”, which her silly teens decided sounded like the English phrase “sober pasta” (leave it to homeschool high schoolers!). They laughed so hard that they learned that verse more quickly.

Sabrina brought up the idea of malapropisms (the unintentional use of a word in place of a similar-sounding word, usually with an unintentionally humorous effect). We know that Shakespeare was the king at creating characters who were full of malapropisms. One of her favorites was Dogberry from Much Ado about Nothing (watch for the 7Sisters literature study guide coming soon…and check out the other no-busywork, inspiring Shakespeare guides).

For instance, in Act 3, Dogberry instructs:

Only get the learned writer to set down our excommunication, and meet me at the jail.

Of course, we know that Dogberry meant “communication” when he said, “excommunication”. However, the outcome is humorous.

Which also lead Sabrina to tell about her beloved husband’s frequent malapropisms, such as: Whenever the kids tell him something profound, he says:

Wow! You’re wise behind your ears!

A merry heart does good like a medicine

Another benefit of laughter together is bonding

When we laugh together over something amusing, we feel more bonded to the folks we are laughing with. (Note, however, that laughing “with” is different than laughing “at”. Laughing at is bullying.

So how do we use humor in homeschooling?

Remember when you starting off in your homeschooling journey? Did you have Pinterest-perfect ideas about school time, dinners together, chores done well together? However, reality rarely looks like what we wanted on the day-to-day basis. This can lead to frustration.

In fact, Sabrina says that:

If you are experiencing frustration, you are doing homeschooling right!

However, in order for frustration to work for us, we have to set the intention of not taking ourselves too seriously! In fact, we need to plan on incorporating the ability to laugh at the moment and laugh together into our daily habits.

Homeschool humor is a lifeline for homeschooling high school!

BTW- Vicki says that if you cannot think of anything else to laugh about, have everyone stop during a difficult moment and watch a silly cat video on YouTube.

Homeschool humor is an antidote for perfectionism

In fact, when we can learn to laugh at ourselves (not derisively) when we do not get something done perfectly. Rather than look foolish because of our glitches, the glitches actually make us appear charming. So mistakes are charming, not a disaster!

This is a COOL skill to give our homeschool high schoolers! Laugh and move on.

Malicious humor is not a good thing and should be avoided in your homeschooling family

Sometimes teens like to try on different kinds of humor. Sometimes, they will try the kind of humor that tears others down. This is a teaching moment for moms. Help them learn to to watch their spirit. Humor “at” (unless they are having fun “at themselves” in a kind way) breaks others’ spirit (which is one way bullying works- do we say this enough?). Here is an interview with Candice Duggar with some ways parents and organizations can help teens avoid bullying.

On the other hand, sometimes you can have some humor “at” if the power dynamic is correct. For instance, sarcasm is only funny if you are using it towards someone more powerful than you. Otherwise, if you are using “sarcasm” with a peer, it is bullying.

Thus, if teens want to “tease”, they need to tease up-line (to someone more powerful than themselves) or with a well-established peer relationship. Sometimes, when teens are trying to break into a new group, they will try to tease the already-established members of the group. This can create awkward situations and sometimes peer rejection.

Also, teens need to be aware of teasing in a group. They might have a bff who is so close that they can do some friendly teasing. However, if they are teasing each other within a group setting, newer teens in the group may feel uncomfortable. SO, keep the teasing to not-large-group settings!

Not only that, teens need to learn the kind of teasing that is culturally appropriate

Vicki pointed out that her family moved from backwoods Florida, where insulting is not considered appropriate. However, when her family moved to the Philadelphia area, she found that the way boys on sports teams showed they wanted to be friends was to insult the new person.

The friendly boy to the newcomer: “Them’s ugly shoes!” 

Thus, Vicki’s teens had to learn to give a friendly insult back, such as, “Your face has ugly shoes!” (Those were the days of “your face” jokes…)

The key was the smile. Both the giver and the receiver would have a smile on their faces when the insults were given!

However, this kind of sports-guy humor did not translate to church activities. Insulting humor at church youth group was never appropriate! Therefore, teens have to learn the cultural context of humor use. That is a LOT but it is part of growing up!

Sabrina points out that this cultural context extends to families

Some families, like Sabrina’s, rely on “gallows humor” to lighten up really tough times. However, her family knows their audience. They keep the gallows humor at home because it might be overwhelming to folks who did not understand the inside joking of it all.

Also, the timing is everything. Try not to joke too soon. Sabrina points out that during a tough time in their family, her teens were using gallows humor. However, for Sabrina, who was still early in the stages of grieving, the humor was too soon. Therefore, they kept at “too-soon jar”. If her teens made a gallows-humor joke before mom was able to handle it, they had to put a dollar in the jar. When they got to twenty dollars in the jar, they would order pizza!

On the other hand, telling jokes is good lots of times!

Therefore, keep some jokes on hand, so that if the circumstances allow, share a joke and have a laugh. For instance, during awkward silences try a corny joke such as:

How do you tie two Hondas together? With one Accord! 

Remember: laughter is contagious! Everyone feels better after a laugh!

Okay, well, we love all our 7th Siblings. Thanks for being part of our homeschool family. Join our 7SistersHomeschool Facebook group and share some jokes!

Join Sabrina, Vicki and Kym for some giggles and encouragement.

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