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Helping Teens Handle Discouragement

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
August 15, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Helping Teens Handle Discouragement.

Helping Teens Handle Discouragement

Helping Teens Handle Discouragement

Let’s face it, as humans, we all experience moments of discouragement. Our teens are no exception. Let’s explore some practical ways in helping teens handle discouragement as they navigate through these uncertain, kind of “weird”, challenging times.

Join Vicki for encouragement on helping teens to handle discouragement in healthy ways.

Tackling Difficult Academics

One common source of discouragement for teens is struggling with challenging academics. Whether it’s precalculus, algebra, or geometry, it’s easy for them to feel stuck and believe they’re not good enough. Even us adults, we would feel a little defeated in the face of those math monsters. 

And when they’re feeling down, motivation goes out the window, making it a real struggle to get anything done. We’ve all been there, right? 

As homeschooling parents, it’s essential to provide support during these moments. A few ways to show your support are:

  • Start by making eye contact and allowing them to express their frustrations. 
  • Let them vent and get those negative thoughts out of their system. 
  • Instead of correcting them, help them find their positives. 
  • Remind them of a time when they actually enjoyed something academic.
  • Let them know they can take a break from this tough stuff and recalibrate the next day. 

Help them remember that there is some light at the end of the academic tunnel, even if it means going back in time a little. Sometimes a day or two off is just what the doctor ordered. Our friend CJ over at Homeschooling Through High School swears by it. 

So, take a breather, go on a drive, or plan a fun field trip instead of banging their heads against those textbooks. Helping teens handle discouragement and failure is no easy task, but with a little creativity and ingenuity, it can be done. 

Take a break and recalibrate.

Finding Support

Sometimes teens are dealing with subjects that are just way out of our league as parents. You know which ones I’m talking about…science labs, super tough math, or anything that makes us scratch our heads in confusion. 

In those cases, it’s time to think outside the box. When you have to “teach what you don’t know” and you both are at risk of discouragement:

Thinking outside the box and finding alternative ways to tackle tough subjects can boost your teen’s confidence and motivation. The point is to find creative solutions to tackle those discouraging subjects head-on.

Adjusting Curriculum

Not every teen needs to follow the same academic path. If your teen is heading towards a trade school, the military, or pursuing a literature major in college, it may be worth reevaluating their curriculum. Here are 50 ways to “scrap your schoolbook” 🙂

Dropping unnecessary subjects, like precalculus, can alleviate unnecessary stress and provide opportunities to explore more relevant topics. Then choose some curriculum that might be a better fit. Financial literacy, for example, could be a valuable alternative. 

Remember, just because something is available to do doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for everyone. Scale back and let your teen focus on what truly matters for their future path.

Navigating Life’s Unexpected Twists

Sometimes discouragement for teens isn’t just about academics. Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs, and our teens can feel down when things don’t go as planned. They might think, By now, I should be doing this and that, or I really wanted to do this, but it’s not happening. 

It’s all part of the rollercoaster ride called Life. When “life happens”, help your teens focus on the good in the present and have hope for the future. Remind them that even though things may not be going as planned right now, they have enough to get by. 

They have food, clothes, and a support system that believes in them. And guess what? The future holds amazing things for them. 

Be their role models, showing them that we’re living in the present with hope in the future, believing that good things are on the horizon. It’s all about navigating the present and the future with faith and hopefulness. We can’t lecture our teens into feeling better, but we can guide them through it.

Coping with Changing Friendships

Now, let’s talk about friendships. Discouragement for teens can happen when they and their friends seem to be heading in different directions. Even us moms go through those friendship changes. It can be downright discouraging. 

When your teen comes to you, pouring their heart out about how they don’t understand what’s going on, let them process it. Let them express their frustrations and just be there for them. 

Of course, if there are negative behaviors on their part, like bossing everyone around or throwing temper tantrums, it’s an opportunity to teach them some valuable life skills. In these particular moments, simply help them work on their self-control and how they interact with others. 

But sometimes, friendships just naturally evolve, and that’s okay. Assure your teen that they are amazing individuals, and there are plenty of friends waiting for them in the future. Together, you’ll get through this rough patch. 

Remember, it’s all about the present and the future. This might feel weird and discouraging right now, but they still have friends, acquaintances, and activities that bring them joy. And in the future, they’ll build an incredible network of awesome people. Here’s a post on making friends in college that can help with high schoolers, too.

Recognizing Signs of Depression

Here’s a little something to keep in mind: sometimes discouragement for teens can escalate into more serious issues like depression or anxiety. It’s crucial to be vigilant and recognize the signs. 

Lethargy, disinterest, excessive crying, or isolation may indicate a depressive episode. Bouncing back becomes a real challenge, especially when they’re bombarded with one discouraging moment after another. 

If you notice these symptoms persisting, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Reach out to your family doctor or find a counselor who specializes in working with teens. Remember, addressing mental health concerns is vital for their overall well-being.

We don’t want discouragement to take root and overshadow their lives. We want them to be healed, whole, and filled with hope. Feel confident in knowing there are resources out there to help them – and you – and it’s a beautiful thing to witness their journey towards freedom from those depressive episodes.

Creating Positive Experiences

When discouragement rears its ugly head, it’s time to create some positive events. When helping teens handle discouragement, as homeschooling parents, we can’t fix everything, but we can inject positivity into our teens’ lives. 

Take a break on the weekend and do something out of the ordinary with your teens. Plan spontaneous outings or activities that they won’t expect. Explore local state parks, museums, or nature trails. The change of scenery and the shared experiences can work wonders.

While they may initially resist, these experiences can lift their spirits and release healing and bonding hormones in their brains. When you engage in a new activity or go on a field trip, their brains release oxytocin, the healing and bonding hormone. Their brains get a little zap of positive vibes. 

Think outside the box, check out local newspapers or online resources for weekend activities, state parks, museums, nature trails, you name it. Just do something different. You might not be able to fix the world for your teens, and you can’t magically make those math lessons disappear, but you can inject a little positivity into their lives. And that is worth its weight in gold.

Helping Teens Handle Discouragement

Dealing with discouragement for teens is a challenge every homeschooling mom faces. By implementing these strategies, you can support your teens through difficult academic moments, navigate changing friendships, and help them find hope in uncertain times. 

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Join the 7Sisters Homeschool Facebook group to connect with a supportive community of homeschooling moms. Together, we can empower our teens and help them overcome discouragement.

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

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CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

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August 8, 2023 by Leave a Comment

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

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School

CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

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

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

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

Unveiling the CJ’s Homeschooling Journey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Homeschooling High School Successfully

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

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

Build a Strong Relationship

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

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

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

Weekly Meetings

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

Utilize Resources

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

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

Dual Enrollment

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

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

Embracing the Teen Years

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

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

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

​​CJ’s Tips for Homeschooling High School 

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

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

Connect with CJ

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

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

 

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

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Back-to-Homeschool Tips

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August 2, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Back-to-Homeschool Tips to start your homeschool year off wellTitle: LifeSkills101 with Lisa Nehring – Back to Homeschool Tips

Show Notes:

Thank you to our sponsor, True North Homeschool Academy.

Introduction:
Welcome back to LifeSkills101, the homeschooling podcast where we equip parents and students with essential life skills for a successful homeschooling journey. I’m your host, Lisa Nehring, and today we’re diving into the topic that’s on the minds of every homeschooling family – “Back to Homeschool Tips.” Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just starting, we’ve got some valuable insights to help you kickstart the new academic year with confidence and joy.

Episode Highlights:

1. Set Clear Goals and Expectations:

– Begin the homeschool year by setting clear academic and personal development goals for your child. This will help both of you stay focused and motivated throughout the year.
– Encourage open communication with your child to understand their expectations for the upcoming year and address any concerns they may have.

2. Organize Your Homeschool Space:

– A well-organized and clutter-free learning environment can significantly impact your child’s productivity and focus.
– We’ll discuss practical tips to create a dedicated homeschool space, whether it’s a room, a corner, or even a portable setup.

3. Plan Your Curriculum and Resources:

– Choosing the right curriculum is crucial to meet your child’s unique learning style and interests.
– We’ll explore various curriculum options and how to incorporate additional resources such as online courses, educational apps, and field trips to enhance the learning experience.

4. Develop a Flexible Schedule:

– Flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of homeschooling, so embrace it!
– We’ll provide tips on creating a daily and weekly schedule that balances academics, extracurricular activities, and downtime.

5. Nurture a Positive Learning Environment:

– A positive learning atmosphere fosters a love for learning and encourages your child to explore their passions.
– We’ll discuss ways to celebrate achievements, overcome challenges, and foster a supportive homeschool community.

6. Personal Growth and Life Skills:

– Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to incorporate essential life skills into your child’s education.
– We’ll share ideas on teaching financial literacy, time management, communication, and other crucial life skills.

7. Self-Care for Parents and Educators:

– As a homeschooling parent or educator, it’s vital to prioritize self-care to avoid burnout and remain effective in your role.
– We’ll explore simple self-care practices that can make a significant difference in your well-being.

Conclusion:

Thank you for joining us on this episode of LifeSkills101 with Lisa Nehring. As we venture into another exciting homeschooling year, remember that homeschooling is not just about academics but also about nurturing a love for learning, personal growth, and building strong family bonds. Embrace the journey with patience, adaptability, and a sense of wonder. Be sure to check out our website for additional resources and support.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us create content that resonates with you. Until next time, happy homeschooling!

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We love coming alongside fellow homeschoolers to offer encouragement and support! Let us know how we can support YOU!

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Homeschool Do-Over

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July 31, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Homeschool Do-Over ~ 500th Episode!

homeschool do-oversDo you wish you had a homeschool do-over? What would that look like? After over thirty-two years of homeschooling, there were many things I wish I had done differently. Join your host, Felice Gerwitz, as she celebrates her 500th Podcast Episode for Vintage Homeschool Moms.

Don’t miss the special 500th Episode Giveaway HERE.

Thanks to our sponsor Media Angels. Visit the website for information about books, classes, and printables such as the Character Planners for immediate download. And we are creating a series of informative classes just in time for back to school! Topics include Streamlining Your Homeschool, Streamline Your Home, Attitude, and Discipline, among a few planned for this year. These classes are short videos as well as handouts to help you plan. The help you need now. Sign up for our email at the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.  We send free monthly planners to o our email list. These vary from year to year and month to month. Don’t miss our, sign up today on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

For the notes to today’s broadcast, you can find them at vintageschoolmoms.com. Look for episode 500, Homeschool Do-Over

Well, here we are, episode 500, and the topic today is Homeschool due over. If I could go back and begin my Homeschool journey again, which began in 1986-87, I would do so many things differently. But isn’t that the way? How many of us are truly happy with something as precious as a homeschool journey? Our children are the most precious things in our lives, probably after our faith in God and or spouse. Our children are important, as they should be. In all aspects of their life, not just in schooling. What is amazing is at home. Schooling is all-encompassing. It isn’t just about academics. It’s about spiritual growth, mental growth, and of course, physical growth. As parents, we want the best for our children, and there is always room for improvement. 

But I want to assure you that a bad day of homeschooling is better than a bad day in public or private education.

In addition, I have talked to hundreds of homeschooling parents for many years as a Conference speaker, and I know that their hearts are in the right place. Sometimes our execution could use improvement, but for the most part, you, Mom and Dad, and Grandparents are doing it well!

But again, the topic of this podcast is Homeschool Do-Overs, so here goes! If I were homeschooling my five children over again, I’d do many things differently. However, there were some things I would not change. 

So what would I do differently? I decided to break it up into sections first, faith, family second, household third, and lastly, homeschooling.

Why? Due to the many different dynamics of homeschooling. I want to share a synopsis rather than a play-by-play of everything I would have done differently! Especially since I started homeschooling in 1986. We’d be here all day, if not longer, since I finished my homeschool journey in 2018, clocking in at 32 years. Yes. I know. 

Truthfully, I was not passionate about homeschooling until a full year or two into my homeschool journey. Once I realized the benefit of homeschooling and saw the caliber of my new homeschool friends and their passion, I was sold. Tip number one, find like-minded friends! Once I found like-minded friends and those who shared my faith and family values, I knew I was in it for the long haul.

I started strongest with my two oldest, and I could tell you I continued at that pace with my youngest three, but I didn’t. In essence, I had a chance to do it over with the three youngest, but if I had to pick a time I was a better homeschool parent, I’d say it was with the oldest two. I was more relaxed once I embraced homeschooling.

What is Homeschooling?

Homeschooling is a chance to combine faith, family, and education. It is a chance to encourage your children to love the Lord, family, and school! It allows us to raise independent thinkers, and it is a chance to spend time with our children that we can never get back if they are in traditional education.

All of my children are now adults, and they live faith-filled and productive lives, yet I believe it is by the grace of God. There were many prayers said during our homeschool years and still today. I prayed about everything related to family and homeschooling, which helped our journey.

A synopsis of faith and homeschool do-over:

This is an area that I feel good about, in that we had the freedom to practice our faith and delve into good spiritual books that we used as read-aloud that focused on character traits of the saints and other godly men and women of God. We had good Bible studies, used Bible timelines, and participated in First Fridays with our homeschool community. The area I would have improved upon was assigning more books in the high school year, such as all of the C.S. Lewis books, not just Mere Christianity and the Screw Tape Letters. I would have included a course on Relativism which permeates our world today. The idea that it is “all good” or “your truth” comes from a lack of education and focus on the real truth, not some made-up version. My children have shared difficulty articulating beliefs, and we could all improve in this area.

A synopsis of my family dynamics homeschool do-over:

Now let’s look at family. I do wish I had been more disciplined to follow through and back up, “No means no, and yes means yes.”  Let’s face it, parents, we are typically swayed by our children. It’s just the nature of parenting. We feel worse for the discipline we give out often than they do. Sometimes I went overboard; for example, my poor second child had to endure one year of no sleepovers! Yes, and the entire year. For one reason, I didn’t like them. I was never a big fan of sleepovers in the first place, especially when my children were younger. However, it turned out to be a good thing, and my daughter has followed in my footsteps, even though she was the one who suffered at the time. In other words, God uses those times for good, even during our worse or over-the-top decisions.

I wish I had worked on one of my children’s attitudes and focused on some of the things that would carry him forward in life. All are self-disciplined except one. [There is a class in the works about cultivating a climate of good attitude within families.] This brings me to another point. I wish I had realized what worked for one does not work for all of them. Even the good methods or ideas! We are a close-knit family, and having family meetings occasionally worked. 

A synopsis of my household management homeschool do-over:

As far as a household goes, that is an area I struggled with; at times, I could not balance a perfectly clean home and well-educated children. I had to pick one! Sure, we had both somewhat in hand at different times, but more times than I can say, the house suffered. We did not have a perfect home where I could feel that people could stop by and we would be willing to host them at a moment’s notice.

I read all kinds of blogs about having meals planned ahead, schedules for cleaning, and having the kids picked up before the day’s end or before dad came home, as well as having a home that could take visitors anytime without worry.  My in-laws often receive company from up north, and they love to show off the house which their son built, and rightly so. Our home is not fancy but well-built, and I love it! We lived about thirty minutes away.  At this point, all learning stopped, and all hands were on deck to get the house in some semblance of order before our visitors came. Sometimes I said no, and I had a good enough relationship with my husband’s parents that they understood. Still, it was something I wish I did better. I put pressure on myself. We all have insecurities, and this was one of mine! As the years progressed, our homeschool moved upstairs, which was wonderful! The mess was contained in one place, and we could keep the downstairs neat enough.

Friends, sometimes it takes time or years, but your family takes precedence. Even so, our house was never dirty – I can’t handle dirt or dishes in the sink, but it wasn’t my mother-in-law’s standard of neatness.

Now as far as planning meals and cooking, that I had it down pat and excelled at doubling recipes to freeze one for an upcoming meal, yet laundry and keeping things picked up could have used improvement.

Celebrate what you do well and let the rest go – that is the older and wiser Felice’s advice!

A synopsis of my education component to the homeschool do-over:

What would I do regarding my home education? I would not duplicate private or public schools at home. As a certified teacher, it was natural to teach in a way that was comfortable, but that did not work, and I soon learned my kids did not like school at all. OUR SCHOOL IMPROVED once I learned to relax and incorporate outdoor activities, field trips, and unit studies. I would use unit studies all the way until middle school and perhaps a bit longer, yet always supplement with math or reading if the children needed additional work.

I would ignore many of the curriculum suggestions of my friends. Everyone’s kids are different, and I know I used some books that didn’t fit our family’s needs. Another thing, I would use textbooks sparingly in the younger years and focus on learning based on my children’s interests. I am too uptight to unschool but I would have done more child lead learning. My children love the outdoors, and I live in a temperate place that allows us to utilize the outdoors all year. The children were very interested in nature, astronomy, and oceanography. W took many trips to the beach, nature centers and had access to a conservatory for star gazing. I wish I had capitalized on the educational aspect of those situations, using them as a basis for deeper and further study. There is so much that you can do in order to facilitate learning with field trips.

I tried to turn some of our vacations into education. My children said I could turn any vacation into school. But can you imagine if we were doing this in reverse? Using field trips as part of our homeschool curriculum? The kids would be very happy to go on home-school field trips and turn that into school during the school year. I was never comfortable with unschooling, but I was very impressed with those who could keep up with that teaching method. As the children became older, I ended up panicking more, especially for those that were college bound. I may be panic is too strong of a word. However, I feel like I did my children a disservice. My second oldest was very interested in writing, and I feel that that was one good thing I did and that I encouraged her to write, and we published three novels. You can check out the Truth Seekers Mystery Series on our website for more information.

However, the focus should have been on trades for my oldest son and the thirdborn. Both ended up working in the vocational field, some area of construction. It helps to own a construction company, but only one son works for us. I insisted that both sons do college-bound work.  It was stressful, not necessarily that he couldn’t accomplish the work but that he hated it! If I could do it over again, my two boys would have a vocational-focused education in various fields. My son taught himself mechanics and has rebuilt or repaired many cars, trucks, and trailers, although his job is in construction with my husband. 

Three of my children attended college. Two graduated Magnum Cum Laude and one Cum Laude, and one with a master’s degree. The youngest, an earlier reader, did not have a problem with school, yet I wish we had focused more on mathematics with him because English and writing can easily. Sometimes we focus on our children’s strengths and forget to shore up their weaknesses, but don’t worry!

After his freshman year of college, he asked me to order him a math curriculum for the summer to brush up on some math skills he felt he didn’t know. That, my friends, is one of the fruits of homeschooling and encouraging your children to learn! So even if we mess up, those motivated kids will keep us in line! I mean, seriously, whose kid asks for a math curriculum to do during the summer when they are on a break in college? What a blessing, right?

My youngest three children played sports in high school, and then the youngest two in college; we had some major scheduling that needed to take place to fit all the practice times. This sometimes threw our homeschool out of balance, but it was a great incentive for the children to complete their schoolwork. It was not a given that they had to play. It was school first, then sports. (Share the story of a teammate whose dad benched him.)

One other thing I wish I had done more college prep work regarding testing. Yes, I know many colleges say they will not focus on test results, but studying for testing when you are college-bound teaches you skills needed for analytical thinking, taking the test, and making decisions. I believe that it is important, and you can check out collegeprepgenius.com. Jean Burk is a Podcaster on this network and provides a wonderful curriculum for college prep at a reasonable cost. I know I don’t get paid to say this. My children benefited from her class, and I am forever grateful that I found her in time for the youngest two. 

The two youngest also participated in dual enrollment. College and high school credits combined. This was a highly successful time for my children.

In subsequent podcasts, I will address some of the comments from parents who participated in a survey where we asked about their homeschool do-over ideas. Here is a synopsis. 

  1. Do not duplicate school at home.
  2. Be more relaxed and flexible.
  3. Prayed more, seek God’s wisdom.
  4. Relationship within the family rather than the 3 R’s
  5. Focusing on reading, writing, and arithmetic (math) rather than other things.
  6. Consider unschooling, child lead learning, and adding field trips.
  7. Some specific curriculums they enjoyed or did not enjoy.
  8. Avoiding the “all in one” curriculums. 
  9. Stop using a curriculum that isn’t working for the child.
  10. Not starting school so early delay learning with some kids.
  11. Identifying learning issues and remediation.
  12. Adopting the idea of “there is plenty of time for that” and running out of time!
  13. Not buy into the idea of the day (one has a farm and would rather have a smaller property and added travel).
  14. Combine subjects within the family.
  15. Don’t stress the house over the kids.
  16. And so many more comments!

Others discussed keeping prayer front and center of their homeschool decisions; one stated, “God’s to-do list and my to-do list are often two different things.”

Friends, we all have regrets, and in our ideal “homeschool do-over world,” we probably would do things we’d want to do differently! Please know homeschooling your children is a blessing. Build relationships, memories and spend time with the Lord. Thanks for joining me on my 500th episode! I pray a blessing on you and your family today and always.

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What to do Senior Year for College-Bound Homeschoolers- Special Replay

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July 25, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast Senior What to do Senior Year for College-Bound Homeschoolers- Special Replay

What to do Senior Year for College-Bound Homeschoolers

What to do Senior Year for College-Bound Homeschoolers- Special Replay

You and your homeschool teens have been working diligently all through high school. They needed a college-attractive transcript. Not only that, they needed the college-prep study skills and safety skills that college students will use. However, they also needed to be teenagers and have some kind of fun and balanced life. You all have made it this far….to SENIOR YEAR!!

Congratulations!

Senior year is different from the earlier years of homeschooling high school. We are always getting LOTS of questions about what to expect from senior year for college bound homeschool high schoolers. What are the rhythms of senior year?

What needs to happen and when during senior year?

Of course, as we always say: There’s not ONE right way to homeschool high school, so you and your teens need to decide what is best. However, it is nice to have some guidelines that can help you set your own goals. These are the senior year goals we set for our college-bound teens.

June, July, August goals:

July goals:

  • Plan the academics for the year, include your teen in the process. It is SO important to have your teens’ buy-in for their final year of high school!
  • Order your curriculum if possible.

August goals:

  • Have your senior write their college application essays.
    • Most of the online applications have the essay topics posted by August (and sometimes they are the same essay topics as the previous year).
  • Check out this Homeschool Highschool Podcast episode on how to apply to college.
  • ALSO: Please, please, please: Discuss with your seniors how to politely ask for their college recommendation letter!
    • That letter may not be due yet, but when seniors have written that college application essay, they can imagine how much time it will take the person they have chosen to write that recommendation letter.

September goals:

  • Work with your senior to narrow the college choices down to three to five good-fit schools.
  • Make sure your teen has toured those schools.
  • If the school has rolling admissions, your teen can start the application process.
    • Otherwise, find out what the early application timeframe is. Discuss with your teen if they want early or regular admissions.

October goals:

  • If early admissions is open for your teens choice schools, you can probably apply now.
  • Have your seniors take their time and do a good job.
  • Get the reference requests done, if they have not already done so.

November goals:

  • See if your seniors can wrap up the college applications and recommendation letters.

Holiday goals:

  • Have a nice holiday season. Keep those academics on target.

January goals:

  • Keep an eye on status on the online essays….IF you are not obsessing about it. Remember, it is your teen who is headed to college, not you!
  • You really can trust God to open and close the right doors.
  • Please do not share everything cool that your teen with all your social media.
  • Ask you teens first! Remind your teen to be compassionate with their friends who are in different places in the process.

February goals:

  • Send mid-year grades to colleges.
  • Start working on graduation. (Some homeschool graduates do not want an official graduation, that is okay, too!)
  • Are senior pictures done?
  • Pick graduation date.
    • Start organizing your ideas for graduation party and ceremony.

March goals:

  • Financial aid packages have arrived.
    • Time for your teen to make that college decision.

April goals:

  • Plan the schedules to finish off academics and activities to finish in time.

May goals:

  • Wrap things up. All the things!

June goals:

  • Graduation!!! Congratulations!!

After graduation, many people celebrate with a graduation party!

Join Sabrina, Vicki and Kym for an encouraging, empowering talk about senior year for college bound homeschool high schoolers. In the meantime, enjoy these posts and resources:

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What to do Senior Year for College-Bound Homeschoolers- Special Replay

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Getting Started with Elementary Homeschool Education

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July 24, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Getting started with elementary homeschool educationWelcome to Life Skills 101 with Lisa Nehring, where we will shed light on important issues affecting parents and their children. In today’s episode, we’re going to chat about launching your homeschool in the elementary year. Learn about getting started with elementary homeschool education. Let’s listen in…

Thank you to our sponsor, True North Homeschool Academy.

Getting Started with Elementary (Homeschool) Education

Podcast Show Notes

Podcast Name: LifeSkills101

Episode Title: Getting Started with Elementary Education in Your Homeschool

Podcast Network: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Host: Lisa Nehring

Episode Summary:

In this episode of LifeSkills101 on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, [Host Name] dives into the exciting world of homeschooling with a focus on elementary education. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooling parent looking to refresh your approach or a newcomer to homeschooling, this episode is packed with valuable tips and insights to get you started on the right foot.

Episode Highlights:

 

Understanding the Foundations of Homeschooling Elementary Education

Lia Nehring begins the episode by providing an overview of the essential components of elementary education in a homeschool setting. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of early learning, building a curriculum, and setting achievable goals for their child’s development.

Choosing the Right Curriculum

Selecting a curriculum tailored to your child’s needs and interests can be a daunting task. Lisa offers guidance on choosing a curriculum that aligns with your homeschooling philosophy, teaching style, and your child’s individual learning preferences.

Creating a Homeschooling Schedule and Routine

Establishing a well-structured schedule and routine is crucial for an effective homeschooling experience. Lisa shares practical tips on designing a flexible yet consistent daily routine that balances academic studies with other life skills and activities.

Addressing Socialization and Extracurricular Activities

The social aspect of homeschooling is often a concern for parents. Lisa explores strategies to ensure adequate socialization opportunities for homeschooled children and the importance of extracurricular activities in their overall development.

Integrating Life Skills into Elementary Education

Beyond academics, homeschooling provides an excellent platform to instill valuable life skills. Lisa discusses the integration of life skills into daily lessons, empowering children to become self-sufficient, responsible, and adaptable individuals.

Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Successes

Homeschooling can present its share of challenges. Lisa addresses common hurdles that parents may face during their homeschooling journey and offers encouragement to celebrate both big and small successes along the way.

It’s a Wrap | Elementary Education in Your Homeschool

Whether you’re considering homeschooling your elementary-aged child or are already a homeschooling pro, this episode of LifeSkills101 on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and reassurance. Remember that homeschooling is a unique opportunity to provide a tailored education, fostering a love for learning and life skills that will benefit your child for years to come.

*Disclaimer:* The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to research and seek professional advice to make informed decisions about homeschooling based on their specific circumstances and location.

*Note:* Lisa Nehring may mention additional resources and links during the episode. Check the show notes on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network website for any related links and further reading recommendations. Happy homeschooling!

 

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We love coming alongside fellow homeschoolers to offer encouragement and support! Let us know how we can support YOU!

 

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Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers, Special Replay

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July 18, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers, Special Replay.

Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers, Special Replay

Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers

There’s not one right way to homeschool high school and there’s not one right way to prepare for life after graduation. After all, some homeschool high schoolers graduate and go to college. Some teens need a gap year (or two) before they go to college. They want to work or serve for a time before heading to college. At the same time, MANY  homeschooling high schoolers graduate and go right into the workforce!

It is NOT WRONG to not go to college! Not all young people are called to go to college.

There are lots of options for homeschool graduates. But FIRST they need to finish senior year. Senior year is such a wonderful opportunity to truly prepare your non-college-bound teens for life after graduation. Let’s talk about it! Join Sabrina, Vicki and Kym for Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers.

Scheduling senior year for non-college-bound teens

Help your teen be ready for adulting:

  • Preparations for career
  • Practical life skills that will prepare them for a responsible adulthood

Summer before senior year

July: Plan out the academic year.

What is left of the academic requirements for graduation in your state and/or supervising organization?

Think about practical courses. Has your career-bound teen had courses like:

BTW- Make sure you include your teen in the process. This is especially important as you prepare for senior year. Teens need to be empowered to think and give opinions about what needs

  • to happen after graduation
  • still must be covered in academics in order to graduate
  • how best to fulfill all these

Also, include your teens in choosing curriculum. Lastly order textbooks, supplies and whatever you need for the school year.

August: Work on career readiness skills

There are several ways to approach building career readiness skills. Here are a few:

Fall semester of senior year

September through December: Career preparation for life after graduation.

Of course, you must finish off the academics for graduation between now and June. Try not to overdo the academics (unless there are topics where your teen has definite interest- then, in that case, have at it!)

Instead of killer academics, concentrate on skills that will help them in the job hunt, career preparation and life in general. Here are a few our non-college-bound teens have learned and appreciated.

Winter semester of senior year

January through May

Work on graduation plans like senior pictures, graduation date and location, announcements while things are more quiet. Schedule backwards through the end of the school year. What academics need to be completed or caught up? Schedule backwards to the end of the year.

Also, throughout the year, you may need to wrestle with these questions:

Teens do not always have a clear understanding about what life will be like after graduation. They may experience anxiety (here’s a post to help). Or they might have some totally unrealistic dreams.

How do you deal with students who are struggling or have some unrealistic dreams?

  • Help them discover Plan B’s and let them know how long you will support them as they try for professional gaming, sports or some other “big dream” career.

Join us this week for encouragement for career-bound seniors and their moms. For more thoughts on senior year for non-college-bound teens check this post.

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO HSHSP VIA COMPUTER

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Also, enjoy these posts:

What are “Values” and Why are Values Important in Career Exploration?

Homeschool Graduate and Entrepreneur Talks about Success and Financial Literacy

HSHSP Ep 82: Writing Happens, Make it Useful- Professional Writing Skills

Scheduling Senior Year for Career-Bound Homeschoolers

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Field Trips for Homeschool High Schoolers- Special Replay

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July 4, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Field Trips for Homeschool High Schoolers- Special replay.

Field Trips for Homeschool High Schoolers- Special Replay

Field Trips for Homeschool High Schoolers

When you have homeschooling high schoolers, they are BUSY! Academics and extracurriculars fill their schedules while they build their powerful transcripts. It is easy to forget field trips when homeschoolers hit the high school academics.

Don’t miss out! Field trips are useful academic experiences, even for high schoolers!

Sabrina and Kym share about favorite field trips with their teens as well as the trips that did not happen, but they wish they had. (Check this post about a favorite field trip fail.)

Field trips can be valuable for both co-ops and for individual homeschooling families. We asked our East Coast homeschool 7th Sisters about their favorite field trip experiences. Check out this post for fabulous field trip ideas for co-ops (but they will work for families, too).

Here are the most basic homeschool field trips for teens:

(…some of which our teens have loved…and some not so much. Just ask our teens about our “dam field trip” one rainy, spring day.)

  • Science based

    • Botanical gardens
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Wastewater treatment facilities
      • Our teens will NEVER forget their walks across the footbridges over the wastewater ponds at our local treatment facility
    • Dams
    • Zoos
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Aquariums
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Museums
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Ranger-led events at state or national parks
    • Visits to blood bank
      • Unfortunately, several of our teens passed out as they watched blood being drawn…so we did not repeat this trip often!
    • Nature hikes
    • Amusement park
      • Physics, you know…

  • History based

    • Architectural tours of historic towns
      • These can be fun if you have the right tour leader
    • Historic town special events
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Docent led tours of historic homes
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Guide-led tours of national or state historic sites
    • Attend a re-enactment
    • Restaurants with food from a country your family is studying

  • Arts

    • Concerts
      • Think especially about music-genre concerts that your teens have not experienced yet.
        • These do not necessarily need to become favorites of your teens, however, they are always enriching experiences
        • Some concerts that our teens have enjoyed include:
          • Military band concerts
          • World music concerts
          • Local orchestra and choir concerts
    • Plays
      • You can sometimes get free or inexpensive tickets to dress rehearsals. Vicki’s co-op attended several Gilbert and Sullivan operetta dress rehearsals that were marvelous.
    • Museums
      • Look for free-admission days or group discounts
    • Arts and Crafts shows

  • Career Exploration

Preparing for field trips?

We suggest that teens expect to be active learners at field trips. That means they need to know that there will be some things expected of them in order for the trip to count as good academics.

Here are some tips:

  • Talk about the field trip ahead of time.
    • Explain how it is pertinent to some of their studies.
    • Give them hints about things to look for that are relevant to their courses.
  • Come prepared with questions for docents or guides. Talk about potential questions ahead of time.
    • Make sure you compliment teens (after the field trip) for their thoughtful questions and participation.
      • This is good practice for the networking skills they will need in their adult life!
  • Have teens write a response paper, essay or create a Powerpoint or Prezi about the trip.
    • Then present it at co-op or family gathering.
  • Use field trips to level up courses or earn a special course credit. Check out this post on how to log hours for credit.
  • Remember, don’t KILL the field trip by overdoing the academic part!
  • Many field trips can be turned in some way into Career Exploration.

Join Sabrina and Kym for this inspirational chat. Also, check out this post

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO HSHSP VIA COMPUTER

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Field Trips for Homeschool High Schoolers

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Summer Planning for Homeschool Families: Making the Most of the Break

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July 3, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Summer is a time of relaxation, fun, and exploration for many families. While traditional schooling takes a break during this season, homeschool families often see it as an opportunity to continue the learning journey in a more relaxed and flexible manner. With proper planning and organization, homeschoolers can make the most of their summer break and create a memorable and enriching experience for their children. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of summer planning for homeschool families and highlight the July Organize It! Planner from the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network as a valuable resource for effective organization.

1. Embrace the Freedom of Flexible Schedules:

One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the freedom it provides in terms of scheduling. During the summer, this flexibility can be maximized to suit your family’s needs and preferences. Encourage your children to engage in activities they are passionate about, such as art classes, sports camps, or music lessons. Use the summer break to explore topics that might not be covered during the regular school year. Whether it’s science experiments, nature walks, or creative writing projects, the possibilities are endless.

2. Set Realistic Goals:

When planning your summer homeschooling activities, it’s important to set realistic goals that align with your children’s interests and abilities. Assess their strengths and weaknesses, and tailor the curriculum accordingly. Consider incorporating outdoor activities, field trips, and hands-on experiences that promote learning through play. This will help keep the summer learning experience enjoyable and engaging for everyone involved.

3. Create a Summer Bucket List:

A summer bucket list is a fun way to ensure that your family makes the most of the break. Sit down together and brainstorm activities and experiences you would like to have during the summer. Include both educational and recreational items on the list. Whether it’s visiting a local museum, having a picnic in the park, or learning a new skill, ticking off items from the bucket list will add excitement and a sense of accomplishment to your summer.

4. Utilize the July Organize It! Planner:

The Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network offers a valuable resource for homeschool families through their July Organize It! Planner. This planner provides a comprehensive and practical system to help you stay organized during the summer break. It includes monthly and weekly calendars, goal-setting worksheets, meal planning templates, and much more. By utilizing this planner, you can streamline your summer homeschooling activities and ensure that you cover all the necessary subjects while still leaving room for relaxation and fun.

5. Maintain a Healthy Balance:

While summer homeschooling provides ample opportunities for learning, it is also important to strike a balance between academic pursuits and relaxation. Summer is a time for children to unwind, recharge, and explore their interests. Encourage your children to engage in hobbies, read for pleasure, or simply spend quality time with friends and family. Remember, a well-rounded education encompasses not only academics but also social, emotional, and physical development.

Enjoy Your Summer!

Summer planning for homeschool families can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By embracing the flexibility of homeschooling, setting realistic goals, and creating a summer bucket list, you can make the most of the break while ensuring your children continue to learn and grow. The July Organize It! Planner from the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network serves as an excellent tool to help you stay organized and make the most of your summer homeschooling experience. Remember to maintain a healthy balance between academic pursuits and relaxation to create lasting memories and a well-rounded education for your children.

The directions on how to download the monthly checklist are sent out in each weekly ezine. The planner access information is always located at the bottom of each email. Make sure that you are signed up so that you don’t miss it.

If you are not signed up, you can sign up HERE as a subscriber.

 

 

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Preparing Middle Schoolers for High School- Special Replay

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June 13, 2023 by Leave a Comment

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Preparing Middle Schoolers for High School- Special Replay

Preparing Middle Schoolers for High School- Special Replay.

Preparing Middle Schoolers for High School

Are you preparing middle schoolers for high school? Are they ready for the rigors of high-school level studies? Feeling stressed about it?

Never fear! Homeschool Highschool Podcast is here to help. With years of homeschooling middle school AND high school we have discovered a few REALLY helpful tips! In this special replay, 7SistersHomeschool’s Sabrina and Marilyn share some encouraging tips to help you love your middle school years.

Some parents get SO stressed out about the high school years.

They fearfully ask themselves:

  • Can our tween do high-school level academics?
  • Should we make our tween jump ahead to high-school level textbooks?

As you have noticed (and we always say): There’s not ONE kind of homeschooler so there’s not ONE right way to homeschool, especially middle school.

  • Some middle schoolers are academic wiz-kids.
    • They are ready to start earning high school credits in seventh and eighth grades. (Unfortunately, we have seen that sometimes these young folks burn themselves out by junior year- we will talk about that.)
  • Other middle schoolers do not care that high school is looming.
    • They are still enjoying their childhood and are definitely not matured enough (emotionally and/or academically) to face high school in a couple of years- we will talk about that, too.)
  • And on the other hand, some are a little ahead on some academics and grade-level on others.

You know what we tell those parents?

WHEN your tween is a teen and is IN high school, they will be developmentally ready for high school academics. While some middle schoolers are advanced academically, many are not. Why push an average-level tween to do super difficult academics? That’s a recipe for burnout!

Rather than push your middle schooler before they are ready for high-school academics, think about this:

Why not individualize some high-school preparation priorities for each of your middle schoolers?

Would one of these priorities or goals be good fits for your middle schoolers?

  • Work on starting to gradually pass the ownership of academic subjects over to your tween. For instance:

    • Depending on the curriculum you are doing, you can teach them to use a simple syllabus.
      • If your tween is just starting to learn about syllabi, you might need to make a simple bullet list of homework due dates and/or color code assignments and due dates.
      • Some tweens need for you to suggest the amount of time they might need in order to finish each assignment.
    • They can take a co-op or group class and learn to bring their homework to class (with their names on it).
      • Give them a backpack just for co-op and teach them to put their folders with homework assignments right in the backpack as soon as they finish it. Talk about paying attention in class so when the teacher calls for homework, they remember to actually hand it in.

  • Teach tweens how to triage their assignments.

      • If they have several assignments due at the same time, help them think about when and where each assignment should be done
        • Some courses need to be done early in the day when they feel energetic and what can they put off until the end of the day
        • Which assignment is the most important (as in: a bigger project is more pressing than a spelling assignment for many tweens)
        • Are there assignments they need help with (as in: trips to the library, extra time on the family computer, one-on-one time with mom)
          • Teach tweens how to ask parents for resource help:
            • Does your tween need a working printer (as in, it is not out of ink)?
            • Are there textbooks or other materials they need from their parents?
          • Along that line, teach tweens to politely advocate for themselves in co-op or live online classes.
    • Decide together where graded papers are kept (for portfolio reviews or for the rare class that has a cumulative final exam).
    • Do you have to occasionally allow a recalcitrant tween to fail (and then make sure there are enforced consequences)?

One of the surprising things we have learned is that high schoolers need life skills and study skills that are a bit more complex than they needed in middle school. If they begin working on those during middle school, they are less likely to need to play catch up while they are trying to keep up with their academics.

THAT’S important stuff middle schoolers can do to prepare for high school.

Join Sabrina and Marilyn for an important episode on life skills and study skills that middle schoolers need when preparing for high school!

You may also enjoy these posts:

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO HSHSP VIA COMPUTER

  1. Follow this link to our iTunes page.
  2. IMPORTANT STEP: Under our Homeschool Highschool Podcast logo, click on View in iTunes
  3. This will take you to iTunes and our own podcast page.
  4. Click SUBSCRIBE.
  5. Click RATINGS AND REVIEW. (Please take a minute and do this. It helps others find us. Thanks!)
  6. Thanks!

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE VIA iPHONE

  1. Tap the purple Podcast icon on your phone
  2. Tap the search icon on the bottom-right of your screen
  3. In the search bar type: Homeschool Highschool Podcast
  4. Tap the Homeschool Highschool Podcast icon
  5. Tap *Subscribe*
  6. Please tap *Ratings and Review* and give us some stars and a comment to help others find us more easily.
  7. Thanks!

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