HomeschoolingIRL Replay Homeschooling, Halloween and Harry Potter

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Homeschooling, Halloween, and Harry Potter

homeschooling halloween harry potterThank you to this podcast episode sponsor:  Route 60 – The Biblical Highway. In theaters September 18th & 19th only. Please check the website to learn more about this wonderful movie.

Homeschooling, Halloween, and Harry Potter? Are we nuts?

Well, yes, but that didn’t stop us from tackling two hot potato topics that homeschoolers traditionally love to argue over. You, too?

In this episode, Fletch and Kendra talk about Halloween and the opportunity to love the places where God has put our families. We discuss fear and the life of the believer, and then Fletch elaborates on a character in the Harry Potter series that taught him a valuable lesson.

We promise if you listen, you won’t turn into a newt. You won’t be made fun of or persuaded to change your mind (unless the Holy Spirit does that), and we won’t send you out into the neighborhood looking for the scariest costume this year.

We just thought we’d put it all out on the table, with a big bowl of candy corn just to make sure we keep it sweet. Join us?

 

Show Notes for Episode #3

 

From Christians and Halloween, Grace to You:

Evil spirits are no more active and sinister on Halloween than they are on any other day of the year; in fact, any day is a good day for Satan to prowl about seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). But “greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). God has forever “disarmed principalities and powers” through the cross Christ and “made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them through [Christ]” (Colossians 2:15).

 

For more information about this podcast or to connect with Fletch and Kendra directly you can follow HomeschoolingIRL on Facebook and Twitter. Fletch blogs regularly on theMangoTimes and is a monthly contributor to the Homeschool Post. Kendra can be found on either of her blogs Preschoolers and Peace or on her author site, KendraFletcher.com.

 

 

Can We Afford To Homeschool? Understanding Homeschool Finances

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Homeschool Finances | Can We Afford to Homeschool? Podcast of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network #HIRL

Making Homeschooling Work on a Tight Budget

In this episode, Fletch and Kendra from the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network are joined by CPA and homeschooling expert Carol Topp to delve into the topic of homeschooling on a limited budget. The conversation covers valuable insights on managing finances while providing a quality homeschooling experience for your children.

Episode Highlights:

Sponsor:  I want to thank Route 60: A Biblical Highway for sponsoring this podcast. Please check out the link here. Route60.movie

1. The Financial Realities of Homeschooling | Understanding Homeschool Finances

– Understanding the concerns of homeschooling parents who are struggling financially.
– Exploring the challenges of affording homeschooling when the budget is already stretched thin.
– Acknowledging the importance of financial stability while pursuing homeschooling goals.

2. Strategies for Homeschooling on a Small Budget | Putting Homeschool Finances to Work

– Carol Topp shares practical tips for making homeschooling work with limited financial resources.
– Exploring cost-effective curriculum options, free educational resources, and library materials.
– Creative ways to engage in extracurricular activities and field trips without breaking the bank.

3. Homeschooling Older Kids | Managing Challenges in Your Homeschool Finances

– Discussing the unique expenses and challenges associated with homeschooling teenagers.
– Exploring part-time job opportunities and microbusiness ideas for teens to contribute to homeschooling expenses.
– Balancing the financial aspect with the flexibility and personalized education homeschooling offers.

4. Aligning Finances with Purpose in Your Homeschool Finances

– Reflecting on the deeper purpose of homeschooling and the values it aligns with.
– Evaluating financial decisions in the context of one’s family goals and values.
– Recognizing the need to prioritize and make thoughtful choices in spending.

5. Resources and Recommendations

– Carol Topp’s “Dollars and Sense” podcast for more financial insights and advice.
– Exploring the “Microbusiness for Teens” concept as a way for teenagers to learn about entrepreneurship and contribute financially.
– Drawing inspiration from financial expert Dave Ramsey’s “Financial Peace University.”

6. Final Thoughts

– Emphasizing the importance of open communication about financial constraints with children.
– Encouraging parents to seek support from homeschooling communities and online networks.
– Reminding listeners that homeschooling’s value goes beyond finances, focusing on the holistic development of children.

Conclusion

In this eye-opening episode, Fletch, Kendra, and guest Carol Topp provide a wealth of practical advice and thoughtful perspectives on navigating homeschooling within a limited budget. By aligning financial decisions with their core values, homeschooling parents can find ways to provide a rich and fulfilling educational experience for their children while maintaining financial stability.

Resources Mentioned

HomeschoolCPA
Dollars and Sense Podcast with Carol Topp
Microbusiness for Teens
Financial Peace University

**Disclaimer:**
The views and opinions expressed in this episode are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions.

 



Replay: Devotions For The Real Family

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

We are talking about Family Devotions for the Real Family on this podcast.

You know REAL family devotions. The families with the toddler hijacking the deep discussion, the teens are daydreaming, and the mom is falling asleep because it’s been a long, long homeschooling day. Can you relate to family worship that looks like this?

Family worship can be trying for most families, and on this episode of Homeschooling in Real Life, we talk with a dozen dads about what it looks like in their homes. But we won’t leave you feeling like a failure! We want to encourage you to discover God’s glory with your family in a way that suits you best.

In this episode of “Homeschooling in Real Life,” we delve into the realm of family worship, a journey that can be both rewarding and challenging for most families. We sit down with a diverse group of a dozen dads, each bringing their unique experiences and perspectives to the table. Through candid conversations, we unravel the intricacies of what family worship truly entails within their homes.

The conversations are refreshingly honest, acknowledging the inevitable struggles that arise when striving to establish a consistent practice. Amidst busy schedules, varying ages, and divergent interests, these fathers reveal the hurdles they face and the creative solutions they’ve discovered. It’s an insightful glimpse into the reality of harmonizing spirituality within a family unit.

However, the purpose of this episode isn’t to accentuate shortcomings but to inspire and uplift. Instead of focusing solely on the difficulties, we aim to ignite a sense of possibility. Through these discussions, we highlight that family worship is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Rather, it’s an opportunity for each family to tailor an approach that resonates with their unique dynamics and values.

Ultimately, the episode is a call to embrace the journey of discovering God’s glory alongside your loved ones. It’s a reminder that the path might be winding, and the pace might vary, but the significance lies in the intention and effort. Whether through shared devotionals, musical moments, or simple conversations, there’s an array of avenues to explore. So, as you listen to these stories, may you be empowered to weave a tapestry of family worship that reflects the beauty of your own household.

This episode is sponsored by:


HomeschoolingIRL Replay- Homeschooling With Exchange Students

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Homeschooling exchange students | Homeschooling IRL an episode on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast NetworkHomeschooling Exchange Students

Live on location in Paris, France!

One of our very favorite episodes to record, because in this show we record straight from the streets of Paris, France as we interview our former exchange student about life in the home of a large homeschooling family.

This episode brought to you by CTC Math.

Tune in as we talk about homeschooling with exchange students and discuss the benefits and potential challenges for families thinking about opening their homes to international guests.

Show Notes:

La Favorite de Sam – the restaurant where we recorded the interview

Sister Cities International

America’s Worst Photographer 

In this episode, we had the incredible opportunity to interview our former exchange student about life in the home of a large homeschooling family.

🏠🎒 Get ready to dive into the world of homeschooling with exchange students as we explore the benefits and potential challenges of opening your home to international guests.

🌐 Gain insights into:

❤️ Our unique experiences and perspectives exchange students bring to your homeschool environment.
✅ The joys and lessons of fostering cross-cultural connections right from your own home.
✅ Tips and strategies for creating a welcoming and enriching experience for your guest student.

Tune in and let us transport you to the charming streets of Paris as we share stories, experiences, and valuable advice about homeschooling with exchange students. 🗼📚 Don’t miss this heartwarming and enlightening episode!

Listen now or find us on your favorite podcast platform.

#HomeschoolingIRL #ExchangeStudentHomeschooling #CrossCulturalLearning #PodcastEpisodes #UltimateHomeschoolPodcastNetwork

Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace) podcast every two weeks as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades of Homeschooling In Real Life.

 

 

 

Homeschooling Through Hard Times

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Homeschooling in Hard Times, HIRL, on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Homeschooling Through the Storm: Navigating Difficulties with Linda Difino

Hard Time Episode | Introduction:

Welcome back to HomeschoolingIRL, your go-to podcast on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network! In this episode, we tackle a crucial topic that every homeschooling family may encounter at some point – homeschooling when life gets hard. Whether it’s dealing with marital stress, tragedies, health challenges, financial loss, or any combination of these, we understand that these hardships can place unique strains on a homeschooling household.

Episode Highlights:

1. Understanding the Different Hardships:

– Every family faces their share of challenges, and homeschooling families are no exception. Our hosts delve into various hardships that homeschooling parents may encounter, ranging from personal struggles to external factors.

2. Interview with Linda Difino – A Homeschooling Warrior:

– Our special guest, Linda Difino, a homeschooling mom and blogger, shares her inspiring journey of homeschooling through multiple difficult times. Linda candidly discusses how she and her family faced adversity head-on and managed to keep their homeschooling journey on track.

3. Coping Strategies for Homeschooling Families in Hard times

– Amidst the chaos of challenging times, it’s crucial to have effective coping strategies in place. Our hosts and guest offer valuable insights into maintaining a sense of balance, patience, and resilience in the midst of adversities.

4. Finding Support and Community in Hard Times

– Homeschooling can sometimes feel like a solitary journey, especially during tough times. The podcast highlights the importance of building a strong support system and engaging with a supportive homeschooling community to share burdens and gain encouragement.

5. Embracing Flexibility during Hard Times

– One of the key takeaways from this episode is the significance of embracing flexibility in homeschooling. Our experts discuss the need to adjust expectations and curricula during trying times, while still ensuring the educational needs of children are met.

6. Redefining Success in Hard Times

– In challenging circumstances, it becomes essential to redefine success in homeschooling. Our hosts encourage listeners to focus on the growth, resilience, and character development of their children, rather than just academic achievements.

Conclusion:

In this thought-provoking episode, we’ve explored the intricate relationship between homeschooling and life’s hardships. Through the uplifting story of Linda Difino, we see that with determination, adaptability, and a strong support system, homeschooling can endure even the most trying times.

Join us as we navigate the uncharted waters of homeschooling through adversity, and remember, you are not alone. Together, as a community, we can rise above life’s challenges and provide an enriching homeschooling experience for our children.

Tune in now and let’s grow stronger together in this homeschooling journey!

 

 

Enjoy this podcast? Check out these:

 

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

 

 

 

 


A Special Thank You to Our Network Sponsor: 

  CTCMath.com


 

Affording College – HIRL Episode 126

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Affording College | special podcast by HIRL sponsored by CTC mathWhen our students hope to go to college, the perennial question remains: how in the world will they pay for it? We decided to return to the topic of affording college with College Prep Genius Jean Burk because we know she has valuable information to share.

We think you’ll be encouraged and feel equipped as you help your college-bound student get the education they are pursuing!

Affording College EPISODE TIMELINE

1:32 – Fluff : Discussion on tragedy, college visits, real life. 
8:01 – Interview with Jean Burk, Part 1
25:43 – Interview with Jean Burk, Part 2
34:30 – Goodbye! The Show Is Over!


SHOW NOTES:

Recommended Resources:
College Prep Genius

Follow Fletch/Kendra:
Fletch Twitter
Kendra Twitter

Follow the Studio Dogs:
Betty the Surf Dog – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Website
Rasta The Chocolate Lab – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Website

Previous Episodes Mentioned:
None

Music clips used on this episode:
None


SUBSCRIBE AND LEAVE AN iTUNES REVIEW:

Allow the magic of the internet to deliver Homeschooling In Real Life to your tablet or smart phone. Let us show you how easy it is:

  1. Follow this link to our iTunes page.
  2. IMPORTANT STEP: Under our big red HomeschoolingIRL logo, just click on View in iTunes
  3. The iTunes program will automatically launch and take you to our podcast page.
  4. FIRST – Click SUBSCRIBE. Voila! All or our podcasts will come directly to your computer and smart phone.
  5. NEXT – Click RATINGS AND REVIEW. Remember the best reviews are 5-stars (hint hint!).
  6. Thanks for being one of our listeners! HIRLers rock!

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO LISTEN TO HomeschoolingIRL?

  1. You can listen right on this page. There is an audio player below.
  2. You can listen on your iPod, Smartphone or tablet. Open the PODCAST app on your device, search podcasts for “HomeschoolingIRL” and click subscribe. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
  3. Subscribe to the HomeschoolingIRL website and you will be notified when every new episode is released. Follow this link and begin your FREE SUBSCRIPTION.

ADVERTISERS/SPONSORS:

CTC Math | Homeschoolers can save 50%! Details here.


LISTEN HERE

Are you ready to listen to Fletch and Kendra get real about homeschooling? Press the PLAY button below.


Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace and KendraFletcher.com) for the HomeschoolingIRL podcast every week as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades.

Back To Homeschool Lists | Replay

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

back to homeschool lists Let’s Talk About: Back to Homeschool Lists with Felice Gerwitz 

Can you successfully homeschool easier with back-to homeschool lists? Of course, you can! Listen as Felice shares her aversion to lists, her New Year’s Resolution to make lists and USE them, and how it has helped her formulate a plan for going back to school with style!

Back to Homeschool Lists

As the back-to-school season approaches, homeschool moms often find themselves juggling various responsibilities and tasks. Making lists can be a powerful organizational tool to help ease the transition and ensure a smoother start to the homeschool year. Here are some list-making ideas that can make back-to-school season easier for homeschool moms.

Firstly, create a comprehensive curriculum list. This list should outline all the subjects and topics you plan to cover throughout the year, helping you stay focused and on track. Break it down into weekly or monthly plans to maintain a sense of progress.

Next, develop a daily or weekly schedule. Listing out the subjects, activities, and breaks for each day helps establish a routine and keeps everyone accountable. It also allows for better time management and prevents important tasks from being overlooked.

Supplies and Materials for your Back to Homeschool Lists

Don’t forget to compile a list of necessary supplies and materials. Take inventory of your current stock and note down any additional items needed, such as textbooks, workbooks, art supplies, or science experiment materials. This way, you can shop in advance, avoiding last-minute rushes.

Consider making a meal plan list as well. Having a menu prepared for the week can save time and reduce stress when it comes to meal preparation, ensuring that everyone is well-fed and nourished throughout the day.

Lastly, create a list of goals for the homeschool year. This can include both academic and personal objectives for each child, providing a sense of purpose and motivation. Regularly review and update this list to track progress and celebrate achievements.

By making lists, homeschool moms can relieve the chaos and streamline the back-to-school season. With a clear plan in place, they can focus on creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment for their children.

Show Notes:

  1. Select curriculum
  2. Purchase or order curriculum
  3. Use various websites for ideas – like Pinterest
  4. Organize your school space
  5. Purchase school supplies
  6. Organize your school supplies
  7. Organize your books
  8. Organize your year
  9. Plan field trips
    1. Plan holiday breaks
    2. Plan your day
  10. Organize your child’s workstation

Handout: Back To School Planning List

Example of Check Off Lists Example Check Off Lists-2

More lists on Lists For Back To School

Movie Review Lists – Watching Movies Paper


Support our Sponsor, CTC Math!

 CTC Math — Check out Unlimited Access today!

 

REPLAY | Back To School – HIRL Episode 116

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Back to School

Are you starting your school year? We are! Let’s gather around the teacher’s lounge and gear up for another year of teaching our kids at home.

Fletch and Kendra are starting their 19th year of homeschooling with a bang and letting you in on the fun. In this episode, they are also imparting 5 questions to ask yourself as you head back to school this year.

Join us and let’s get the school year rolling!

 

EPISODE TIMELINE
:57 – Fluff : Fletch shares his opinion about weddings and baby deliveries.
9:12 – Back To School
25:19 –  The show is over. iTunes Reviews. Letters from listeners. Goodbye!


SHOW NOTES:

Recommended Resources:
None

Follow Fletch/Kendra:
Fletch Twitter
Kendra Twitter

Follow the Studio Dogs:
Betty the Surf Dog – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Website
Rasta The Chocolate Lab – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Website

Previous Episodes Mentioned:
None

Music clips used on this episode:
What Did You Learn In School Today? by Pete Seeger – Buy It Here On iTunes


SUBSCRIBE AND LEAVE AN iTUNES REVIEW:

Allow the magic of the internet to deliver Homeschooling In Real Life to your tablet or smart phone. Let us show you how easy it is:

  1. Follow this link to our iTunes page.
  2. IMPORTANT STEP: Under our big red HomeschoolingIRL logo, just click on View in iTunes
  3. The iTunes program will automatically launch and take you to our podcast page.
  4. FIRST – Click SUBSCRIBE. Voila! All or our podcasts will come directly to your computer and smart phone.
  5. NEXT – Click RATINGS AND REVIEW. Remember the best reviews are 5-stars (hint hint!).
  6. Thanks for being one of our listeners! HIRLers rock!

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO LISTEN TO HomeschoolingIRL?

  1. You can listen right on this page. There is an audio player below.
  2. You can listen on your iPod, Smartphone or tablet. Open the PODCAST app on your device, search podcasts for “HomeschoolingIRL” and click subscribe. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
  3. Subscribe to the HomeschoolingIRL website and you will be notified when every new episode is released. Follow this link and begin your FREE SUBSCRIPTION.

ADVERTISERS/SPONSORS:

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath.com – please visit their website for more information; our sponsors help us provide free podcasts for you year-round.

Please visit our coffee sponsor: Caroline’s Coffee for 10% off any order.


C_Logo_2012


LISTEN HERE

Are you ready to listen to Fletch and Kendra get real about homeschooling? Press the PLAY button below.


Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace and KendraFletcher.com) for the HomeschoolingIRL podcast every week as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades.

What Homeschooling Does To A Marriage – HIRL Episode 17

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

What homeschooling does to a marriage articleYou are going to want to grab your spouse for this episode! Fletch and Kendra dive right into the middle of the topic and discuss how the stress of homeschooling can leak into your marriage relationship.

Throughout this episode, you will hear live interviews conducted with couples on the floor of the Teach Them Diligently Conference in Nashville, TN. Be prepared for answers that you might not expect!

Fletch and Kendra also spend time talking and laughing with TTD conference founders and directors David and Leslie Nunnery about the challenges we’ve seen in our own marriages and some helpful ideas on how to preserve intimacy in the middle of family, life, and school.

 Pull up a chair and prepare to get real with Fletch and Kendra as we look at What Homeschooling Does To A Marriage.

Thanks to our sponsor, CTCMath.com – we are pleased for their continued excellence in education and dedication to the homeschool community. It is due to sponsorships that our programs continue to come to you without cost. Please visit the website and check out their curriculum.

 For complete show notes and links to what we discussed on this episode, go to our website: HomeschoolingIRL.com

 

Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace) podcast every two weeks as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades of Homeschooling In Real Life.

 

 

Enjoy this episode? Check out these:

Top Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcasts

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

 

I Love Homeschooling But I Hate Teaching Math – HIRL Episode 31

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

hate mathHate math? And I hate teaching science. And writing. Or . . .

Let’s get real homeschoolers. Most of us have at least one subject we don’t enjoy teaching. What? That is difficult to justify when we are the ones in charge of teaching all the subjects.

So what is a homeschooling parent supposed to do when there are core subjects that must be covered, but there is no motivation by mom or dad to get that subject done every week, or they feel unqualified to teach it?

In this episode of HomeschoolingIRL, Fletch and Kendra discuss the reality of teaching multiple subjects to multiple grade levels and resources for getting some help. Join them as they encourage their listeners to think a little bit outside of the proverbial box.

Episode Timeline for I Love Homeschooling But I Hate Teaching Math

Thanks to our sponsor CTCMath, a wonderful Math curriculum for the entire family of school-aged children. This one-stop shop has grades K-12; check it out. Homeschoolers can save 50%!


5:28 Studio Discussion Part 1 (Sponsored by Compass Classroom) – Sharing our strengths and weaknesses
14:00 Studio Discussion Part 2 (Sponsored by Grapevine Studies) – Staying a step ahead
20:47 Studio Discussion Part 3 – Practical suggestions from Fletch and Kendra
30:14 Listener questions – Fletch’s tie-dye wardrobe and parenting with grace.
35:18 Advent Resources/Interview with Amanda White from Truth in the Tinsel


 

Join Fletch (from theMangoTimes) and Kendra (from Preschoolers and Peace) for the HomeschoolingIRL podcast every two weeks as they interview guests and talk through some of the goofiness they have experienced in nearly two decades of Homeschooling In Real Life.

 

Enjoy this podcast? Try these:

6 Reasons Your Child Hates to Write

I Hate Homeschooling Let Me Tell You Why