Biblical Herbalism for Kids: Teaching God’s Design One Plant at a Time

October 6, 2026 by Leave a Comment

Biblical herbalism for kids: Felice Gerwitz and Camila Johnson of The Eden Institute on teaching God’s design one plant at a time — Vintage Homeschool Moms PodcastHave you heard of herbalism? What about Biblical Herbalism? If you’ve ever wondered whether herbs belong in a Christian home—or worried that “natural remedies” somehow tip into New Age territory—this conversation is for you. Felice Gerwitz sits down with Camila Johnson of The Eden Institute to talk about reclaiming plant knowledge for the glory of the Creator. Learn about the curriculum she built so moms can learn right alongside their children, one plant at a time.

Biblical Herbalism: Learning God’s Design with Your Kids

I raised five kids across a wide age span. I’ve reached for simple kitchen remedies when medicine made me feel worse. And I’ve watched too many science videos that never once named the Designer. Camila’s approach puts the glory back where it belongs. It is important to teach our children that they are important to and the world they belong to has so much to offer.

Biblical Herbalism ~ Episode 588

Camila is a former middle-school English teacher, a mom of four (two still at home), and the creator of a K–12 biblical herbalism curriculum. She grew up with Brazilian grandmothers who reached for peppermint tea and honey-lemon without calling it anything fancy. Later, she spent years studying plants on her own because the formal courses she found either ignored spiritual health entirely or leaned heavily into Far Eastern mysticism.

She decided to build something different: a curriculum that names the Holy Spirit, honors the Designer, and treats plants as provision rather than objects of worship.

Why This Matters for Homeschool Families

Most of us were never taught how our bodies actually work or how the plants growing nearby can support them. Schools aim at tests. Life requires stewardship. Camila’s curriculum starts with that gap.

Each week focuses on one plant. The history lesson shows who used it and how. Geography shows where it grows and why the climate shapes its “energetics.” Science is pure observation—smell it, draw it, label the parts. Bible opens the week (sometimes a short original story about the Eden family, sometimes straight Scripture). Character grows through waiting for longer preparations, such as glycerites and tinctures. Art, language arts, and even a little Latin show up naturally because everything circles the same plant.

Younger children (Sprouts, K–2) make same-day teas and cold infusions. Third through fifth (Seedlings) begin the slower medicines. Middle and high school levels go deeper into constitutions and matching plant patterns to people patterns. The whole thing is designed so mom learns too. You do not have to arrive as an expert.

You Do Not Have to Grow a Garden

Camila has turned her backyard into a food forest, but she is clear: you can source every herb in the curriculum from reputable suppliers. She partners with Mountain Rose Herbs. The lessons work whether the plant is growing in a pot on your windowsill or sitting in a mason jar on the pantry shelf.

Start with one plant. Smell it. Ask what the scent might tell you. Read the short history. Draw it. Make a simple tea together. By the end of the week the children (and you) know that plant well enough to recognize it again. That is how real knowledge sticks—not through five disconnected subjects, but through one living thing studied from every angle.

The Heart Behind the Work

Camila’s online foundations course and her book Back to Eden: A Biblical Foundation for Herbal Healing (available on Kindle) lay out the same framework: five basic tenets of healing that Scripture already names—rest, nutrition, hydration, and so on. A fever is not the enemy; it is the body doing what the Creator designed it to do. A headache can be the body asking for salt and water. The curriculum teaches children to notice those signals and respond with wisdom rather than automatically suppressing them.

A free first week for both elementary bands and a simple body-pattern quiz are available at her site so families can try before they commit. Pre-orders for Sprouts (K–2) are open; Seedlings (3–5) follows closely. She is also an approved ClassWallet vendor for families who can use education dollars.

Visit edeninstitute.health and the homeschool page at edeninstitute.health/homeschool.

See Eden’s Table Up Close

Eden’s Table is Camila’s Bible-rooted herbalism unit study for elementary students (Sprouts, K–2, and Seedlings, 3–5). Every subject runs through one plant a week. Start with the nine-week Starter Unit as an instant download, or get the full year in three printed books.

Try one week free first. Camila will send you the complete first week — five lessons on lavender for Sprouts (K–2) or elderberry for Seedlings (3–5). Print it, teach it, see how your children respond before you spend anything. Get Week 1 free →

Listener gift: use code EDEN13 for 10% off the $39 Starter Unit or the $249 printed set, either level, through October 31, 2026. Shop Eden’s Table at edeninstitute.health/homeschool.

Enter the Sweet 13 Birthday Giveaway

The Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network turns 13 this October, and Eden’s Table is our presenting sponsor. We’re celebrating all month with more than $1,500 in prizes for homeschool families, including a CTCMath annual family membership and $250 to spend at Media Angels. Drawings happen on four Fridays, and your entries carry forward, so one sign-up keeps you in every drawing. Earn bonus entries by following a show, leaving a review, or sharing the birthday page with a friend.

Enter the Sweet 13 giveaway here

Resources from Media Angels

More at MediaAngels.com/store.

More Listening

  1. Should You Consider Homeschooling? Research, Real Fruit, and Clearing the Noise (Episode 582)
  2. Science Labs That Actually Work at Home
  3. Teaching Creation Science (Episode 362)
  4. Start Your Homeschool Day Right: Morning Routines That Set the Tone for Success (Episode 565)
  5. Homeschooling Uncovered: Research, Funding, and Surprising Facts! (Episode 559)

Have a happy homeschool week.

About the Guest
Camila Johnson is the Founder and Executive Director of The Eden Institute, where she develops Bible-rooted herbalism curriculum designed to help homeschooling mothers teach science alongside their children. With a passion for showing that the created world is evidence of a Designer, Camila creates resources that integrate history, character, and the natural sciences with rigor and reverence. She is a mother who believes that moms don’t need to be experts before they begin; they simply need to be willing to learn alongside their children.

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Already Behind in Your Homeschool? What to Do When the Plan Falls Apart

October 5, 2026 by Leave a Comment

Already behind in your homeschool by week three? Felice Gerwitz on routine over rigid schedules, counting what got done, and dropping the busy work — Vintage Homeschool Moms PodcastDo you already feel behind? It doesn’t matter if this is week one, week three or even week twenty-three. Sometimes we feel like we’ve accomplished nothing when, in reality, homeschooling is so much more. Tune in for this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms.

Already Behind in Your Homeschool by Week Three? ~ Episode 587

I hear this every fall. A mom writes me, or it happened to me more often than I care to admit… It is week three and the school year does not look like the plan I made in the summer!

Life happens. Sometimes unexpected company (I live in Florida) or someone was sick. Math books were lost more times than not or took forever. A well-meaning person at church asked how school was going, and I looked at my husband and thought, help! When he asked me what was wrong, I told him, we are already behind!

Hey friends. Thanks so much for joining me. I homeschooled five children for more than thirty-two years. Some weeks were peaceful, and some not so much. There might be the threat of putting them on the next shiny yellow bus that stopped at the end of our street, and I am not proud to admit that. But, even that day was a good day. I’m looking at this from a long lens now, but building character is not just for our kids but for ourselves as well.

Thanks so much to our sponsor for helping keep this show on the air.

One-page printable: http://vintagehomeschoolmoms.com

So – why are you behind?

That is what I had to ask myself, after enough years of doing this. Behind the week I wrote when I planned my six week unit study, when I felt hopeful. Behind a close family friend with older kids and no toddler. Behind an imaginary goal I had for myself that didn’t account for my father, who moved in the year my daughter got married?

I used to treat the planner like it was the boss. If I wrote math at a certain time and we missed it, I felt like I had failed. That is a hard way to live. And it is not how a home school works.

Routine Rather Than Rigid Schedule.

I am more routine rather than a rigid schedule. I have said that for years. After breakfast, we start school, and sometimes school in the form of a Bible story or a continuation of a read-aloud takes place. Then we do chores, the ones that take little time, and then school starts. If breakfast is late, we still start. If math happens after lunch because the morning fell apart, math still happened.

Our goal was to get the kids’ check-off sheets completed in a week’s time, but if it took longer, the subject and page went to the following week.

Did You Have School This Week?

If you prayed, or you opened the Bible. If somebody read. If math got done even once. If you had a conversation with a child that was not about a missing pencil. Then you had school. It may not look like the week you planned. Yet it was still a week of school.

I used to try to make up every page we skipped. All that did was make everyone miserable. If a skill matters, come back to it. Don’t invent extra work just to feel better. The shortcuts that worked for me were a selection of math problems. If the child had mastery, they could move on. Sure, practice makes perfect, and sometimes they need more practice, but we used math books that had a spiral approach; skills were retaught lesson to lesson, so if it was something they knew, we skipped those problems or added more if it was something that didn’t make sense to them or they found difficult.

If you use a Morning Crate (I did a podcast about what to pack in it for multi-aged students), then pack it for the week you are in – if it is going to be a very busy week, make it short. Take things out or leave them in for another day. Ten minutes is still a start. Do not skip the activity just because you cannot do the long version. Consistency is important.

I think that is the key. Skipping things makes us feel guilty, and truthfully, skipping is okay as long as it isn’t chronic. Tackling the hard subjects first is always a good thing, and my older teens did this before breakfast on their own! My second oldest and co-author on the Truth Seekers Mystery Series would rather write than do math. So, she did Math first thing in the morning before she came down for breakfast so that later in the afternoon she could devote herself to writing. Finding your child’s passion is another key.

If You Feel Stuck

Take a minute, with a nice cup of strong coffee if I have it, and reanalyze your curriculum. Look at what you are doing and ask, what is worth keeping? What can wait two weeks, and what may get tabled until the new year? What did I buy in August that is making it hard to complete my school day? One year I purchased a composer’s curriculum. I love Classical music, but I am not musical. I had grand ideas for teaching my children the classics: letting them listen to the music, pick out the instruments of the orchestra, and identify composers from their most notable pieces.

A great idea, but the wrong time to implement. I decided this would be a great unit for Christmas break. Let’s just say it wasn’t. I ended up keeping this for an end-of-year activity when things were winding down, and it was the perfect lesson for when the math books were completed for the year and projects were finished.

At different times, we had a four-day week. This shorter week was wonderful! It was a goal we could keep with one day to “make up school” or have an outing if we were caught up. Four days instead of five is a stretch; it made things go so much better, and yes, some days it was just three.

The thing is, school still got done, and my kids learned differently than most. I had the high achievers and the high achievers who struggled to read, to spell, or to do math. Yet all my now-adult children are successful. Three graduated from college with top honors and my math-before-breakfast daughter graduated college in three years. The other two own their own business.

I wish someone had told me that it was more important to spend time with my kids than to chase an elusive curriculum that isn’t going to get them to heaven!

If Someone Asks About Standards

Thankfully homeschooling is here to stay (please, Lord) and no one is as shocked about it like they were when I got started. You don’t owe anyone any details about how things are going, not at church or in the grocery line. I would say something like: we are covering what my child needs this year. We keep records. Thank you for caring.

I was with my daughter, who had four little ones, and someone rudely asked if they were all hers. I closed my eyes, waiting for her to say something snarky like, “No, there is a sale on aisle five.” Instead, she smiled sweetly and said, “Yes, all mine, and we homeschool, too!”

Friends, you homeschool for your kids, and it is a decision you and your spouse made together; it is no one else’s business. If you must, write down what your kids learned at the beginning of the year and what they know now at different times of the year. This is not for anyone but you.

Every year I thought we accomplished nothing was a year we did the most ever. We compiled a sampling of the children’s work one time a year – and when we did I couldn’t believe all we’d done – the next year we saved special papers or pictures from events during the year so I didn’t feel that way again!

Your life, your homeschool is your own. If that goal is weighing you down, move it back, you have my permission. Get rid of the busy work. Sometimes it is wonderful to have copy work, but other times it gets in the way. Focus on the most important things, family, relationship and God the rest will come into place.

Scripture

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.”
— Lamentations 3:22–23, RSVCE

God’s love never ceases, and our love for our children is why we, as homeschool parents, make sacrifices. The blessings way outweigh anything we put into it. Just watch: week four will be amazing, and the next day and the next? Why? Because you have a new attitude. Attitude sets the tone. It starts with you and with me.

Join the Sweet 13 Birthday Giveaway
The Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network turns 13 this October! We’re celebrating all month with more than $1,500 in prizes for homeschool families, drawn on four Fridays. One sign-up keeps you in every drawing. Enter the Sweet 13 giveaway here.

Resources from Media Angels

More at https://mediaangels.com.

More Listening

  1. Morning Time for Mixed Ages
  2. Time Boosters for the Busy Homeschool Mom
  3. Fine-Tune Your Homeschool Day
  4. The Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice
  5. Avoiding Homeschool Pitfalls

If this helps, share it with a friend. Until next time, be blessed. Have a blessed homeschool week!

 

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Spark The Fire

September 21, 2026 by Leave a Comment

Spark the Fire even when your child (or you) would rather do anything else! In this episode Felice Gerwitz shares real, actionable tips that you can implement in your daily homeschool life.

Spark the Fire even when your child (or you) would rather do anything else! In this episode Felice Gerwitz shares real, actionable tips that you can implement in your daily homeschool life.

Spark the Fire ~ Episode 587

Hey friends. Thanks so much for joining me. This episode is for the morning when nobody wants to start. I homeschooled five children for more than thirty-two years. The age gap in our house was wide. What looked like laziness was not always laziness. Sometimes the book was wrong for that child. Sometimes they were tired or hungry or embarrassed. Sometimes it really was an attitude. Those are not the same problem.

Thanks so much to our sponsor CTCMath.com for helping keep this show on the air.

Spark the Fire ~ Episode 587

It Is Not Always a Character Issue

I used to jump to character first. Do the work. Stop complaining. And sometimes that was fair. Work is part of life. I told my children that an adult does what needs doing whether or not they feel like it. That is still true.

But I also learned to look before I pushed.

Is the book too hard? They feel stupid, and they will do anything to get away from the page. Is it too easy? They feel managed. Is it a story or a method that does not fit how they think? I have pulled a book that looked excellent on paper and watched the same child come alive in something simpler. The child was not the flop. The match was.

Has this child slept? Eaten? Had a chance to move before the hard subject? Some of my children needed to move first or they were going to move during the lesson, and it was not going to be pretty. That is not rebellion. That is a body.

Are they carrying too much? School, a sport, a co-op, and the weather in the house. Teens will look lazy when they are overloaded. Eight-year-olds will too.

What I Would Try Before I Pushed Harder

Start smaller than you planned. If you use a Morning Crate, begin there — prayer, a little Scripture, one page of something living. Then give them a short piece of the hard work. One set of problems. One paragraph to tell back. One page copied well. A small thing finished is better than a big thing fought over and left undone.

You can keep the standard and change how it looks today. They can talk the answer while you write. You can walk and talk. They can teach a younger sibling the fact they just learned. I have watched a child who would not do the page gladly explain the page to a brother. That still counts.

What I would not do is turn every lesson into a show. You are not there to entertain them. Bored is allowed. Hard is allowed. Talking back is not.

If It Is Disrespect

Deal with the respect. That is not a curriculum problem. I was firm about that. I tried not to give a speech in front of the whole table if I could help it. Handle it. Then come back to the work. The work still stands.

If they are afraid they cannot do it, sit closer. Lower the amount on the page. Tell them what they actually did. “You finished three. That is three more than yesterday.” I stopped saying “you’re so smart.” Smart became a trap. Finished was a path.

I tried sticker charts that turned into negotiations. That did not last. I tried “because I said so” with no kindness in the room. That worked for a day and cost me a week. What I kept was this: be close when I could, keep the work real, and say we can do hard things without a nasty spirit.

Scripture

“Hence I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you.”
— 2 Timothy 1:6, RSVCE

Rekindle means it is already there. Sometimes it needs a smaller page and a calmer room. Every day is a fresh start. Attitude sets the tone — yours first.

VHM-Spark-the-Fire-Handout

There is a one-page reminder with this episode at VintageHomeschoolMoms.com. Use it if it helps. Ignore it if it does not.

Resources from Media Angels

More at MediaAngels.com/store.

More Listening

  1. Morning Time for Mixed Ages
  2. Homeschooling a Struggling Learner
  3. Fine-Tune Your Homeschool Day
  4. Math the Easy Way: 7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages
  5. Time Boosters for the Busy Homeschool Mom
Filed Under: Vintage Homeschool Moms Tagged With: ,

Morning Time For Mixed Ages

August 31, 2026 by Leave a Comment

Transform your morning time into a productive routine. Learn practical tips for gathering and organizing your family's activities.Waking up with a plan is what Morning Time For Mixed Ages is all about. How do you get everyone into a routine that really works? Join me as I share ways to increase your time each day.

Morning Time for Mixed Ages: Start the Day Together Without Losing Your Mind~ Episode 583

We do not need five different school days in one kitchen. A one-room schoolhouse started together, then split for the work that had to be separate. That is vintage, and it still works.

We need a routine more than we need a schedule. A schedule says 8:42. A routine says, after breakfast, we gather. If breakfast is late, the gathering still happens.

What Is a Morning Crate?

I say Morning Crate on purpose — not morning basket.

A pretty basket is lovely, and if you already have one, keep it. In our house, a basket didn’t fit enough stuff! A crate is practical. (And, as my kids said, we could easily junk it up!) A wooden crate is pretty, and it is easy to move. If you prefer, use a plastic bin with handles or recycle a shipping box. Whatever works for you and allows you to cut down on extra trips.

The crate is the signal. When the crate comes out, we are starting. When the crate goes back, we are done. Little children understand that. Teens do too, even if they roll their eyes the first week.

What Goes in the Crate

Do not pack everything. Pack what you will actually open tomorrow. However here I will break my own rule. I usally packed in enough for a week.

  • A Bible
  • One hymn or one song on a card
  • One short poem or memory verse
  • The read-aloud you are already working on (or something new)
  • One weekly picture, map, or extra (optional)
  • A busy-hands tray or zipper bag that belongs only to Morning Time for little kids

Pack it the night before. Morning-me is not the woman I want making decisions.

Three Timed Versions

Pick the one that matches the day you actually have.

The 10-Minute Crate

This is the day you almost skipped school. Do not skip the start.

Gather. One prayer or a short Scripture. One hymn stanza, one poem, or one page of the read-aloud. What you are thankful for? Put the crate away. That is a complete Morning Time.

The 20–30-Minute Crate

This is the ordinary version, and the one I want most of you to try first.

Begin the same way — gather, pray, read a verse of the Bible. (Use an idea from the Character Planners or Media Angels.com/store for more ideas.) Discussion. Then add one beautiful thing and one simple thing. The beautiful thing might be a hymn you will sing or if the kids are in a choir or studying music someone can play a short piano piece, etc. A poem can be read, or a picture you talk about for several minutes. The simple thing might be a few pages of the read-aloud, a map, or a character word.

Older children can journal at this time. Younger children draw what they heard. The toddler participates or plays quietly with his “toys.” If someone needs to leave, they leave. Be flexible!

The 45-Minute Crate

Some seasons can hold more, especially during elementary and middle school. Forty-five minutes can hold prayer, Scripture, a hymn, a longer read-aloud, and one extra.

Do not start at this point if you also have a toddler and a teen with a job or someone who does afternoon lessons or sports. You can increase (or decrease) you time based on your children’s interests. You cannot shame yourself into it. If the room unravels at minute twenty, shorten it tomorrow. Every day is a fresh start.

Mixed Ages Without Losing Your Mind

Together does not mean identical. Together means we occupy the same beginning.

  • Toddler: Presence is the work. Give him hands — a tray of quiet, familiar things that appear only when the crate comes out. If he crawls off after four minutes, he still heard the prayer.
  • Elementary and middle: Let them carry the crate, read a verse, point to the map, write one sentence.
  • Teen: Invite. Do not lecture. Let them read, choose the poem, hold the baby, or write a real thought. Ten honest minutes, three mornings a week, still count.

Your attitude sets the tone. The crate is just a box. You are the warmth in the room.

Morning Time Stays Together. Math Splits.

The Psalm can be shared. The math lesson cannot. After the crate goes back, send each child to the work that belongs to their level.

That is why this episode is sponsored by CTCMath: short video lessons at each child’s grade, so you are not writing three different math plans before breakfast. There is a money-back guarantee.

Scripture for a New Morning

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23, RSVCE

Free Handout

Print the September Morning Starter that goes with this episode. It has the pack list, the three timed versions, toddler-hands ideas, and a night-before reset you can check off.

Resources from Media Angels

More at MediaAngels.com/store.

More Listening

  1. Start Your Homeschool Day Right: Morning Routines That Set the Tone for Success (Episode 565)
  2. Fine-Tune Your Homeschool Day: Small Tweaks for a Smoother Routine
  3. How to Build a Weekly Homeschool Schedule That Works
  4. The Best Homeschool Scheduling Advice for a Smoother Week
  5. Math the Easy Way: 7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages (Episode 435)
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Happy Families

August 24, 2026 by Leave a Comment

Find out how maintaining faith and love helps cultivate happy families, despite the challenges of daily life and homeschooling.Happy Families take work! The timeless truth that a family that prays together stays together has guided many parents through the ups and downs of raising children. Happy families don’t happen by accident—they require intentional effort, but the eternal rewards make every challenge worthwhile. In today’s fast-paced world, homeschooling families have a unique opportunity to nurture strong bonds rooted in faith and love. This episode of the Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcast explores practical ways to cultivate joy at home, even when obstacles arise.

Building a Happy Homeschool Family: Faith, Choices, and Simple Joys ~ Episode 583

Happy Families ~ Episode 583

Every time I sit down to record an episode on creating happy families, it seems like chaos erupts! It’s almost as if unseen forces are working against us, throwing curveballs left and right. Yet, in the middle of our daily routines—meals, lessons, chores, and everything in between—we sometimes lose sight of the bigger picture. Homeschooling allows us to slow down and focus on what truly matters most.

Losing Your Vision

Many of us entered family life with a clear vision of what we hoped for: a home filled with faith, shared meals, laughter, and meaningful connections. Perhaps you pictured lively gatherings, just like the warm, noisy households many grew up in. Reality often brings surprises, but that doesn’t mean the dream is lost. It simply evolves into something even richer through God’s grace.

As the heart of the home, moms often carry significant influence over the family’s atmosphere. This isn’t about blame—it’s about recognizing our powerful role in setting the tone each day. Husbands play an equally vital part, and together we partner in building a Christ-centered household. The key? Remembering that happiness begins with a daily choice.

Choosing Joy Every Morning

Each new day brings a fresh opportunity: Will we choose happiness, or let circumstances dictate our mood? It’s a simple decision, yet one of the hardest to maintain consistently. A self-fulfilling prophecy can easily take hold if we wake up expecting the worst. Instead, we can hand our burdens over to the Lord.

I recently had a sweet reminder of this while at the checkout line. A cashier softly sang words that touched my heart: “I place my worries at the foot of the cross.” She didn’t speak to me directly, but her quiet witness—working diligently while trusting God—lifted my spirit. It was a beautiful example of living faith in the ordinary moments. We aren’t called to carry every family worry like an overstuffed backpack. That path leads to exhaustion and misery for everyone. [You can hear more about the encounter here.]

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, RSVCE)

Practical Steps for a Happy Homeschool Family

Building lasting joy takes more than good intentions. Here are some time-tested approaches that have helped countless families:

  1. Root Everything in Faith in God – Prayer, Scripture, and trusting His plan form the foundation. Start and end your day together in prayer.
  2. Make a Daily Decision for Joy – Choose gratitude and speak life-giving words, even on tough days.
  3. Simplify Your Life – Clear out clutter, both physical and in your schedule, to make room for what matters.
  4. Learn to Say No – Protect your family’s peace by declining activities that lead to overwhelm.
  5. Get the Children on Board – Involve them in creating family traditions and goals that foster unity.

For those in the infant and toddler years, know that the season of sleepless nights and constant demands is temporary. Reach out for help when possible, and always turn to prayer when support feels out of reach. God sees your efforts and provides strength for each moment.

Why This Matters for Homeschool Families

Homeschooling offers the precious gift of time together. By prioritizing faith-filled relationships over external pressures, we raise children who know they are loved and valued. Happy families model Christ’s love, creating a legacy that extends far beyond academics.

Recommended Resources from Media Angels

Consider the Creation Camp at Home workbook set to bring hands-on faith and science learning into your family days. Or explore the Character Counts Planners to help children reflect on godly traits and family moments worth treasuring. Visit MediaAngels.com/store for these and more.

Sign up for our encouraging ezine here: https://mediaangels.com/ (look for the newsletter signup).

More Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes for You to Enjoy

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Should You Consider Homeschooling?

August 17, 2026 by Leave a Comment

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

Should You Consider Homeschooling? Research, Real Fruit, and Clearing the Noise ~ Episode 582

Considering homeschooling? Discover the advantages of home education and hear research that supports this rewarding journey.

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

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

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

What You’ll Learn

  • Why recent online criticisms lack supporting evidence
  • Key findings from a 2026 systematic review on academic, social, and adult outcomes
  • How homeschooled students typically score on standardized tests
  • Why many families see stronger value retention and community involvement
  • Real-life ups, downs, and long-term success after 32 years
  • How daily life at home builds closer family bonds
  • Ways to keep education focused on learning and worldview
  • Parental rights and the importance of knowing your state’s requirements
  • Five clear next steps if you are exploring homeschooling
  • Encouragement that you do not have to be perfect—just present and committed

Clearing the Recent Negative Buzz

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

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

Do Your Homework—Look at the Evidence

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

  • On academic achievement, 15 of 24 studies (62%) showed homeschooled students performing better than those in institutional schools. Homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points above public-school averages on standardized tests.
  • On social and emotional development, 16 of 25 studies (64%) reported clearly positive outcomes for the homeschooled.
  • On success in adulthood (including college and later life), 13 of 24 studies (54%) found better outcomes for those who had been home-educated; most of the remaining studies showed no significant difference.

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

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

Thirty-Two Years of Homeschool Ups, Downs, and Real Success

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

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

Core Family Values Stay Intact

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

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

Families Grow Closer

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

Education Stays Focused on Learning and Worldview

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

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

Parental Rights and State Requirements

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

Encouragement and Five Practical Steps

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

Here are five practical steps you can take right now:

  1. Research your state’s specific laws and requirements. Knowing the legal framework early removes unnecessary worry.
  2. Connect with local or online homeschool communities. Support groups and co-ops give a clearer picture of daily life.
  3. Identify your “why” and write it down. This becomes an anchor when challenges arise.
  4. Explore curriculum and resource options without pressure. Focus first on one or two core subjects.
  5. Start small with a short trial period. I gave it a six-month try and clocked out at 32 years. Best decision my husband and I ever made.

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

Resources Mentioned

Quotable Moments

  • “Blanket claims can sound convincing in the moment, yet they often rest more on personal feeling than on careful study.”
  • “The data simply do not support claims of widespread academic or social failure.”
  • “Looking at my five children as adults, what I see is success. I see the long-term fruit.”
  • “You do not have to be perfect. You simply have to be present.”
  • “Home education, done with care and commitment, produces strong academic results, healthy social development, and adults who thrive.”
  • “I gave it a six-month try and clocked out at 32 years. Best decision my husband and I ever made.”

Stay Informed

  • 🎧 Subscribe to Vintage Homeschool Moms so you never miss an episode
  • 📥 Explore more research-backed encouragement at the links above
  • 💬 Share this episode with a homeschool friend who’s asking “Is homeschooling still worth it?”
  • ⚠️ Reminder for listeners: This episode is educational, not legal or tax advice. Always verify your state’s official handbook before applying or buying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Disclaimer

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

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

  • Creation Science Bundle – Faith-based science materials that help families explore God’s creation while building a solid worldview.
  • Truth Seeker’s Mystery Series – Engaging stories that encourage critical thinking and a love of truth (co-authored with my daughter Christina).

Find both and more at MediaAngels.com/store.

Related Listening

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Homeschooling a Struggling Learner: Real Help When Nothing’s Working

August 3, 2026 by Leave a Comment
📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling a Struggling Learner

Learn how to support your struggling learner at home. Explore tips for homeschooling a struggling learner with confidence.Help for parents who are considering homeschooling a struggling learner!

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

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

Homeschooling a Struggling Learner: Hope, Root Causes, and Real Help 

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

Meet Steve Shapiro

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

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

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

  • Poor reading skills
  • Weak comprehension
  • Reversals of letters, numbers, and words (commonly called dyslexia)
  • Spelling difficulties
  • Short attention span as the visual system fatigues easily

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

Website: thelearningconnection.myshopify.com

Book a complimentary evalutation:
https://thelearningconnection.myshopify.com/pages/free-home-evaluation-for-learning-difficulties

Questions We Explore in This Episode

  1. How did you begin this work?
  2. What makes your approach different? Why do you believe so many children struggle in school?
  3. What is typically being done in schools for children who struggle?
  4. You have been at this for over 40 years. Looking back, how has God led you through it all?
  5. What are some of the symptoms parents would notice at home?
  6. Tell us about your free home evaluation and what you offer families who live out of town.
  7. Is there any practical skill or tip you can share with our audience today?

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

Why This Matters for Homeschool Families

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

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

Watch on YouTube

More Listening on Vintage Homeschool Moms

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

Helpful Resources from Media Angels

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

Browse more at MediaAngels.com/store.

Stay Connected

Sign Up for the newsletter and receive ongoing encouragement, episode highlights, and practical help for your homeschool journey.

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

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

🌿 This episode is proudly sponsored by 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 →

Filed Under: Vintage Homeschool Moms Tagged With: , , ,

Teaching Kids to Clean: Chore Systems That Actually Stick

June 8, 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 →

 

 

Cleaning with kids does not have to be a chore. Explore strategies to involve children and enjoy the process together.Cleaning With Kids

From the Vintage Homeschool Moms show with Felice Gerwitz

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

I’ll be honest: I never liked cleaning. For years I got no pleasure out of it at all. I still remember my mother-in-law saying, “Doesn’t everything just look so great after you clean?” and thinking, yes — but by the time I got there I was too worn out to enjoy it. So when I tell you I’ve come a long way on cleaning, and on cleaning with my kids, I mean it. Here’s how it happened, and what I’ve learned along the way.

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A little house that taught me a lot

Our first home was about 1,200 square feet. My mother sweetly called it a dollhouse — her positive spin on tiny bedrooms. It turned out to be the perfect place to learn how to clean and clean well. There simply wasn’t room for junk to pile up. I’m a big fan of shelving, so I had my husband put shelves up in the living room and down the hall, and that helped tremendously. The real lesson took me years to absorb: you need a place for everything. Back then, when company was coming, we’d just dump everything into the spare bedroom and shut the door. That is not a system.

When we moved into our current home, we jumped from 1,200 to 2,800 square feet. I looked at all that cabinet space under the bathroom sinks and thought, I will never fill this up. Of course I did. More room actually made the house junkier, because there was always somewhere to set things down. Around that time I started a publishing business, which gave me the perfect excuse to finally hire a cleaning lady. It freed me to work — but I still kept the family picking up, and my kids still had chores.

When everyone pitches in

Years later we added on again so my father could move in with us. By then the house had grown to seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two stories — far too much to pay someone else to clean. So my husband sat down and divided up the work. I’d been married to this man for many years and couldn’t recall him ever volunteering to clean, so I was curious what he had in mind. “I’ll do all the floors,” he said — and if you knew how much tile we have, you’d know that’s no small offer.

Going room by room, we discovered something useful: every room can be divided into age-appropriate jobs. There are things the little ones can do, things the older kids handle, and things that belong to Mom and Dad. Over time everyone settled into the tasks they actually enjoy, and it’s remarkable how that works out. One of my daughters loves to pop in her earplugs and run the floors — that’s her thing. The boys are happiest on the lawn mower, weed-eating, and taking care of the pool. One liked setting the table, another emptying the dishwasher. Nobody likes dishes — except my husband, who actually enjoys them. And we all love to cook. The point is, when people get to lean into what they like, the work stops feeling like a battle.

Do’s and don’ts for little ones

The big “don’t” is harsh chemicals. We’re serious about non-toxic in our house, so I don’t buy many cleaners — most we make ourselves or buy from gentler companies. I do keep some bleach, but I never hand bleach or ammonia to a child; those are far too harsh. For years we made our own mild homemade window cleaner, and the kids loved it, because what kids really love is a spray bottle. Honestly, you can fill one with plain water and they’ll be just as thrilled.

Good jobs for little ones: dusting with a cloth, sweeping with a smaller adjustable handle, and using one of those lightweight battery-powered swivel sweepers. Ours started out costing around $99 when they first appeared and now go for about $15. They don’t last forever, but they’re perfect for small hands, and during the years we had them our floors were spotless because everyone wanted a turn. Heavier vacuums are usually too much for a little one, but a vacuum wand can work.

Why ask kids to clean at all — especially someone like me, who avoided it for years? Because it builds genuine character. Even when we could afford help, I never let the cleaning lady do my children’s rooms top to bottom. The kids still straightened their rooms, stripped their own sheets, put away their clothes, and helped fold laundry. I didn’t want them to feel entitled. And I always kept the little ones nearby while they worked — in the same room or close enough that I could keep an eye on them.

Room by room

Bathrooms.

My braver daughter lets her kids clean the toilet under close supervision; I never have. She still laughs about the day one of her children proudly dragged a dripping toilet brush through the house to show her — doubling the work, since now the floors needed sanitizing too. My rule was simple: Mom does the toilet, tub, tile, and showers. The kids handle floors, faucets, sink bowls, and mirrors. My favorite trick for little ones is a magic eraser on the baseboards and doors — the spots I always neglected because I hated bending down. Our big white baseboards show every fingerprint, and those erasers clean them beautifully. Long-handled scrub brushes on the sinks are another winner; kids love to scrub.

Bedrooms.

The children help strip their sheets, and with supervision they love loading the washer — though I always say, “only Mommy does the soap.” We dust weekly and de-junk as we go. If a stray Lego or little toy turns up, I ask them to put it back where it belongs before it gets broken. I keep dresser tops clear, and we tackle just one or two drawers a week. Do that consistently and the whole dresser stays organized — and because the kids helped, they keep it neater.

Every few months we pull the beds from the wall to vacuum behind them, and once a year, usually in summer, we do the heavy lifting: everything comes off the shelves, gets dusted well, and goes back. It’s a process, not an overnight project. Right now we’re in the middle of converting our schoolroom for high school, swapping out two wobbly desks we’d tightened and repaired for fifteen years — and even mid-project, the tidied-up space is finally giving me that good feeling my mother-in-law described.

Kitchen.

A magic eraser is wonderful here too, depending on your appliances. We have all stainless now, and while I love the look, I found the old white porcelain easier to clean — and stainless products tend to be harsher, so I only let the older kids use them. I always teach the same spraying habit: spray into the cloth, or stand back so you don’t catch the overspray in your face. With little ones, I clean and they buff afterward. They love the gadgets, so I tease my grandkids when they walk in — “We’re going to clean!” — and they cheer.

We too often skip letting little ones help because we assume it’ll be more work, but my mother-in-law eventually went from wishing the kids would get out of the way to wondering how she’d ever manage without their help. That’s exactly where I am now. Baseboards stay a favorite little-kid job. On granite counters I use warm, soapy sponge water and reseal occasionally. Wood cabinets are a Mom job — grease can ruin the finish if you let it build up — but kids can handle knobs, faucets, and doorknobs.

Living room. We try to keep it picked up nightly. If blankets come out in the evening — yes, even in Florida, where the kids crank the AC and then bundle up — I want them folded and put away before bed so the room looks nice. I keep boxes of toys under the coffee table for the grandkids, and we rotate them so nobody gets bored; when they do, we raid the stash upstairs or toss what’s broken. With tile floors, our furniture slides easily, so the kids have learned to check under cushions and chairs. Reclining chairs especially hide treasure — we always found loose change in my dad’s chair growing up, and now my kids never miss a chance to look.

Adapt it to your family

That’s a snapshot of how we clean together. Things change, and you simply adapt for your family. I’ve watched two older children grow up and my daughter marry and move away, and now I’m near the end of the journey again with the younger ones — it goes so fast. I’ve never been a neatness fanatic; I’d rather take my time and enjoy the work alongside my kids. My husband is the tidy one, and he’s learned that pitching in beats complaining. After thirty-five years of marriage, I can tell you it was a work in progress — there were hurt feelings along the way — but we got there.

I didn’t grow up pitching in much. My parents ran a restaurant for most of my childhood and did everything together; our big cleans happened on Mondays while we were at school. Without that early training, I grew up with a bit of an entitled streak — and that’s exactly what I didn’t want for my own children, even in the years we could afford help. All of my kids are capable now, and honestly none of them would mind if I hired a cleaning lady tomorrow. But the way we do it works best for our family, and that’s really the whole point: look at what fits yours, and do that.

I hope this has been helpful. You can find my books and curriculum at MediaAngels.com, and plenty of encouraging shows on The Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network. Thanks so much, and God bless.

Filed Under: Vintage Homeschool Moms Tagged With: , , ,

Make a Time Capsule Your Kids Will Treasure (Just for Kids)

June 1, 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 →

Hey kids! Have you ever wondered about time capsules? What about a just for kids time capsule? Time Capsules are treasure boxes filled with pieces of today that you can open years from now. Imagine digging up a box from the past and seeing what life was like for someone just like you! In this fun Just For Kids episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we’ll explore what a time capsule is and get your ideas flowing for one you can make at home.

A Just for Kids Time capsule is a treasure box filled with pieces of today that you can open years from now.Create a Homeschool Time Capsule ~ Episode 579

Just For Kids– Fun Faith-Filled Memory Activity for Kids

What Is a Homeschool Time Capsule?

A time capsule is a special container you fill with items, notes, drawings, or small treasures that capture a moment in your life. You seal it up and place it somewhere you won’t be tempted to look at it! Give it to your parents or place it somewhere that is out of reach. It would be fun to bury it in the backyard or somewhere that is clearly marked (with permission!). When you open it later, those things become memories that tell a story about who you were, what you loved, and what was happening in your world.

Think about stories you’ve read or shows you’ve watched where explorers find old coins, letters, or toys from long ago. Those discoveries spark excitement and help us learn about the people who came before us. Your own time capsule can do the same thing for your future self or even your children one day!

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Why Make a Time Capsule with Your Family?

Do you ever think, “I’m sure to remember this!” and then forget? That happens to all of us. We have a great day at an event like a county fair or a birthday party. Think about one thing you ate or something you purchased or won? Maybe you are part of a band or play sports. Did you get a ribbon or special honor? One time, my children played baseball (and my daughter played softball). When they received the “King’s Award,” it showed godly character and good sportsmanship. They knew I thought that was the best award, even better than getting “Most Valuable Player.” (Of course, a mom would think that is the best!)

What is important to you? What hobbies do you have? What is a favorite book or book series that you read? A homeschool time capsule helps preserve these special moments and reminds us of God’s blessings in our daily lives.

Time Capsule Ideas

You can put almost anything in your time capsule—as long as it’s safe and won’t spoil. Here are some original ideas to spark your creativity:

  • A photo of you and one of your family.
  • Your favorite day so far. What is something wonderful that has happened to you that you want to remember?
  • A letter to your future self. What would you tell yourself in five or ten years?
  • Something that is happening in our world today.
  • A handwritten “Top 10 Things I’m Thankful to God For” list from right now.
  • A small drawing or a list of your favorite Bible verses. Why is it meaningful?
  • Your current favorite bookmark (or one you decorated yourself) with the title of your favorite book (or series).
  • Your favorites. Whether this is a sport, a collection, a television series, or something else. What is your “favorite” right now if you had to pick one?
  • A favorite worship song or song you like. (You can list more than one.)
  • A sketch or photo of the view from your bedroom window or homeschool desk.
  • A “day in the life” note describing what a normal homeschool morning looks like for you this year.
  • A special rock, shell, or something you’ve collected from nature, on a family adventure, with the date and place written on it.
  • A sample page from your prayer journal.
  • The wrapper or label from your favorite snack (or homemade treat) that your family enjoys together.

What would you put in? My recommendation is to use something waterproof or place it in a waterproof container if you are storing it outside. Something like a plastic container with a tight lid, or even a giant mason jar. Decorate the outside to make it look special. Write the date on it and when you plan to open it—maybe in five years, ten years, or when you turn eighteen!

Scripture to Remember “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” (Matthew 6:19-20).

I hope your time capsule reminds you of what is important to you and how our lives are always changing. What is important today isn’t always important in the future, and a time capsule is a snapshot of time that demonstrates this to us in a real way.

Listen to the full episode for even more ideas, questions to ask each other, and ways to make this a meaningful family project.

More Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes for You to Enjoy

Recommended Resources from Media Angels Store

  • Organize IT Planners – Wonderful for tracking special memories and projects to include in your time capsule.
  • Character Counts Planners – Faith-filled tools to help kids reflect on godly character moments worth preserving.
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How to Make a Homeschool Time Capsule Your Family Will Treasure

May 18, 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 →

The idea of a time capsule isn’t new, but what about a homeschool time capsule? Something you can store and look back upon?The idea of a time capsule isn’t new, but what about a homeschool time capsule? Something you can store and look back upon at the beginning or end of your new school year? In this encouraging episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, Felice Gerwitz shares a simple, faith-filled idea that adds a beautiful new dimension to making memories and remembering God’s faithfulness in your homeschool journey.

Sponsored by CTCMath.com

Homeschool Time Capsule ~ Episode 578

Preserve Memories, Faith & Family Legacy ~ Vintage Homeschool Moms with Felice Gerwitz

Whether you’re just starting homeschooling or have years of experience, this project doesn’t take much time, uses household items, and is perfect for families who want to remember the good times, learn from the challenges, and pass on a legacy of faith to the next generation.

Homeschool Time Capsule Suggestions

  • What a homeschool time capsule is and why it’s a powerful tool for your family
  • Step-by-step instructions: How to make one that’s simple, meaningful, and durable
  • What to include: Photos, artwork, handwriting samples, favorite Bible verses, prayers, milestones, and more
  • Best storage ideas so no one peeks too soon
  • Suggested timelines (end-of-year to next year, or beginning to end of school year, 5 years, 10 years, or graduation)
  • How to open it with celebration, gratitude, and family fanfare
  • Using the capsule as a learning tool: What worked in your homeschool? What didn’t?
  • Fun ideas from the kids: What they want to save for the family time capsule
  • Scripture connection: Creating your own “stones of remembrance” (Joshua 4)

Why This Matters for Homeschool Families.

In the busyness of lesson plans and daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of God’s hand at work. A homeschool time capsule helps you pause, give thanks, and treasure the heart lessons alongside the academics. It becomes a beautiful way to show your children (and future grandchildren) how your family loved, learned, and followed Christ together.

Practical Ideas to Get Started

  • Gather a sturdy container (plastic bin, wooden box, or large mason jar)
  • Include current photos, copywork, drawings, height charts, and family prayers
  • Let each child contribute something special
  • Pray over the capsule before sealing it
  • Plan a joyful opening with snacks, praise music, and storytelling

Next Episode: Kids Homeschool Time Capsule – How each child can create their own unique one. Personal ownership, independence, and even deeper faith reflection!

Additional Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes for Listening

These episodes offer more encouragement on memory-making, reflection, family bonding, and evaluating your homeschool year:

Media Angels Book & Resource Recommendations Enhance your time capsule project and ongoing homeschool journey with these faith-filled resources from Felice Gerwitz at MediaAngels.com/store:

  • A Few Minutes with God eBook + Study Guide – Perfect for including personalized Scripture reflections and family devotionals in your capsule.
  • Creation Science: A Study Guide (and related Creation Astronomy/Geology packs) – Hands-on projects that create wonderful mementos and science memories.
  • Secret Code Time eBook – Builds on the unbreakable bond theme and makes a great addition to family time capsules.
  • Character Counts Planners and Organize IT Planners – Printables ideal for tracking milestones and goals to include in your capsules.

Resources & Links

  • Printable questionnaires and faith-based time capsule ideas (search Christian family sites for “faith time capsule printable”).
  • Related Scripture: Joshua 4, Deuteronomy 6:6-7
  • Sponsor: CTCMath.com – Make math moments that last!

Share & Connect Tag your photos #VHMTimeCapsule and join the conversation in the Ultimate Homeschool Moms community. How will your family create memories this year?

About Vintage Homeschool Moms Hosted by Felice Gerwitz, Vintage Homeschool Moms preserves the best of the past while blessing future generations. Encouragement, practical tips, and faith-filled wisdom for Christian and Catholic homeschool families. Part of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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Complete show notes help you jump-start your own adventure at home. Check out more podcasts on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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