Best of The Real Kathy Lee: Let’s Get Organized!

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
September 19, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Let's Get Organized! with The Real Kathy Lee

This week, the second top podcast episode of all time!  Let’s Get Organized!

Things don’t always work out as planned, but I have learned that it is usually for a good reason. I hope that is the case with this week’s episode. I was scheduled to talk to my good friend, Mary Ann Kohl (author and process art expert). However, Mary Ann had to cancel so I called up my buddy ASH-A-LEE in Nashville. We decided to chat about one of the topics I get asked about THE MOST, organization.

People often think that because I am the queen of “say yes” and “get messy” I have a very messy house. Not true. Well, it CAN get messy. However, I am best when my house is organized and everything has a place. Just this week, I tweaked the organization of my pantry. See below.

kitchen organization

I shared some basic thoughts about organization on today’s episode.

  1. Find a place for everything and make that place known.
  2. Minimize your stuff. If you haven’t used it in a year, chances are you are not going to use it. This goes for clothes, shoes, toys, and kitchen utensils.
  3. Less is BEST. As parents we are guilty of thinking our kids need lots of different toys. False. Choose quality over quantity and rotate toys in and out.
  4. It is easier to say yes when everything has a place (ie – paint supplies, legos, etc…)
  5. Organizing children is easier in an organized space.
  6. Have children work together in order to free of individual time with each child. I love that Ashley sent me the following pics a few hours after our podcast. She immediately implemented some of my suggestions. Way to go Ashley!

 

I hope you make time to connect with your kids today!!

Want to get organized, be sure and check out the monthly freebie from Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network: Printable Checklists

Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Route 60

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

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If We Could Turn Back Time

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
September 13, 2023 by Leave a Comment

If We Turn Back Time - Things We'd Tell Our Younger Selves about HomeschoolingWhat if we could turn back time?

Seriously. What if we could turn back time? That was a topic of conversation.

THSC in The Woodlands is always a fun conference. One of the reasons I love it so much is that I get to hang out with two of my favorite ladies on the planet, Arlene and Jamie. We even wore the same NAME on our nametags all weekend and enjoyed the confused looks we received.

We decided it would be fun to chat about the things we would tell our young selves (if we could) about this homeschooling gig.

We definitely had some laughs and shared some pretty cool stuff.

Here are the highlights:

  1. Lighten up.
  2. Don’t try and do everything.
  3. Only plan for the next year.
  4. Don’t compare.
  5. Trust your gut.

Homeschooling is a journey. It is a marathon. Some days will be great. Some days will be disastrous. Hang in there. We all agreed that we are thankful we did and think our kids would say the same.

If you aren’t a part of a co-op or moms group, start one. We all need like-minded people around us to encourage us on the tough days. Contact your state or local homeschooling organization if you aren’t sure where the cool homeschool kids hang out in your area.

 

You’ve got this!

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

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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What If I Think My Child Needs a Diagnosis? Replay

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
September 6, 2023 by Leave a Comment

What if I think My Child Needs a Diagnosis?What if I think my child needs a diagnosis?

This is a common mom-question and today on Momfessions we’re going to tackle that topic. Thank you to today’s sponsor: CTC Math.

I have the coolest friends. Sometimes I forget that they are even more amazing in their careers. This is the case with my friend, Lei Rhyne. Not only did she homeschool her kiddos for several years, is beautiful and funny, she is also a psychometrist… say that three times fast. When she mentioned to me that she helped families who saw their children struggling, I wanted to know more.

In This Episode: What if I Think My Child Needs a Diagnosis?

In this episode Lei shares the full process involved of having your child tested and diagnosed, putting your fears to rest. She explains the first meeting with the Psychologist, the fact-finding mission that usually involves a couple of days of testing and observations, and the results of meeting with both the Psychometrist and Psychologist.

I think one of the best parts about getting a diagnosis from Lei her team at Fresh Start Mind is the fact that in the end, parents will be armed with the information and tools needed to help their child succeed emotionally, socially, and academically.

If you suspect that something is not quite right with your child socially, emotionally, or academically, you should consider giving Lei or another qualified educational consulting team a call.

You’ve got this!

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Special Replay: Creating Inviting Spaces in Your Homeschool with Your Little Ones

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
July 13, 2023 by Leave a Comment

inviting spaces homeschool little ones podcasat the real kathy lee Special Replay | Creating Inviting Spaces for Your Homeschool for your Little Ones

 

When my sweet friend, Misty sent me a Marco Polo (a cool video app) asking my opinion on her child’s playroom, I thought it would be a good idea to share my thoughts with all of you on creating inviting spaces for your little ones!

Everyone is worthy of feeling as if they belong, especially our children and most definitely in their own home. Before you begin designing an inviting space for your children, I suggest you get on your hands and knees and crawl around your home. YEP, literally get on your hands and knees. Spaces look so different from a child’s eye level. Ask yourself, how do things look and feel from that level. Are there enough “small” areas for your children to work, play, discover and explore?

 

Work, An Element of Inviting Spaces in Your Homeschool

Children need small ways to contribute to the family. They need work. Create spaces for their belongings on their level. Have a drawer for their cups, plates, utensils, and special cooking items. Have a bucket with basic cleaning supplies and cloths. Place hooks low enough so that children can hang up their own coats. Creating good habits at a young age pay off.

Play, Building Relationships through Ideas

Children are meant to play. How easy is it to say YES to their ideas for play? Less is definitely more in this area. Children do not need 20 containers full of toys in a playroom. During the early years it is likely that everything that is in a container will end up dumped on the floor, all at once. Buy quality toys and items that inspire open-ended play. This is more engaging for the child. I suggest you keep it basic. Some quality blocks, some arts and crafts materials, something that inspires pretend play (dress up, kitchen, baby dolls, etc..) and a cozy corner with books. Put everything else in a large plastic bin and keep it for a month. During that month, move anything your child asks for into a different bin. Whatever is left in the original bin after a month, donate.

Discover and Explore, The Great Outdoors

Kids need permission to get outside in search of discovery and exploration. Do you have a space for them to do that? Do you have materials such as nature journals, pencils, binoculars, and bird/flower books to inspire them? Keeping these type of items handy will help you say yes!

Creating inviting spaces is worth the time and effort! Get down on your hands and knees and start crawling around your space today!

 

Love this post? Discover more on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

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

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

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Top Ten Things Your Preschooler Wants You to Know | Replay

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
July 6, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Top 10 Things Your Preschooler Wants You to KnowTomorrow, I get to share my passion for preschoolers with about 100 preschool teachers. I am sharing with them the Top Ten Things Preschooler Want You to Know. I thought you might enjoy hearing this list, as well.

Get a FREE Organize It! Planner

#10 –Just because I use potty talk does not mean I have to go potty.

When I child calls you poopy head, simply say something like, “What? I have poopy on my head. Nope, I don’t think I have poopy on my head.” Children use potty talk to get the attention of others. Once they realize that their words don’t shock you, they won’t use them as often.

#9 – Just because I can hold a pencil and spell my name does not mean that I am ready to read and write.

If I begin counting in Spanish…. Uno, Dos, Tres, etc…. you might assume I speak Spanish? I don’t. Just as counting in Spanish does not mean I speak Spanish, holding a pencil and spelling their own name, does not mean a child is ready to read and write. Reading predictable books, Reading quality books, asking good questions, journaling, making books, recognizing that words have meanings, inventive writing, scribbling, and manipulatives all help prepare a child for reading when it is time (somewhere between 5-8).

#8 –Children need variety when they are outside.

Many children need to run, jump, climb, and ride when they are outside. However, some need to be on a blanket with a book or building blocks. Offer them a variety!

#7 – There is more to forgiveness than “I’m Sorry!”

In the early childhood world, it is often said – “Don’t force a child to say I am sorry.” However, rarely is an option given. How should we handle those hits, ugly words, and moments of anger? The goal is to help children understand that their actions have consequences. What they do impacts other people. When they hit their friend, their friend is hurt. When they say unkind things, their friend is hurt. Children should be encouraged to use their words and express their feelings.

#6 – She is not invited to my birthday party.

Preschoolers are trying to figure out who they are, what they like, and how to establish boundaries. This is an important time for teachers to help children put their words to their emotions. This is a gift we can give children. We would all say that we want adults that can work out problems and strife in their relationships. This needs to start early. Just like #7, helping children express how harsh words make them feel will them in the long run.

#5 – We learn through the process and not the product.

It is in the process of discovery, experience, and wonder that children learn. When we focus on an end result, we often miss the actual lesson of the process.

#4 – Please listen, we have something to say.

We can learn about children’s needs, stresses, developmental areas, etc… if we will take the time to listen to their stories, their pretend play, their questions, etc… If we don’t give them time during the small moments in their life, they will not give us time when the big topics arise.

#3-We need to experience to explore a topic.

“Being a kid is dirty, messy, noisy work. It is in the experience that we actually understand the topic. Whatever we hope to teach children about, the brain needs to experience through the senses. It is in the touching, smelling, hearing, tasting, and seeing that the brain builds synapses.

#2 – We are ALL different.

Honor who your child is! Our goal as a parent is to help a child become who they were already meant to be.

#1 – MEMORIES will be made!

Bottom Line, what do you want children to remember in 5, 10, 15, 20 years? What impact do you want to have on them?

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!

 

 

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Special Replay | Are You An Unaware Mommy Shamer?

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
May 30, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Are You an Unaware Mommy Shamer?Are you an unaware mommy shamer?

Have you ever been guilty of mommy shaming? I sure have. I honestly did not realize I was doing it until years later, but unfortunately, that doesn’t change the fact that I did it in the first place. I hope this episode will encourage you to look at yourself and make sure you aren’t guilty of being an unaware mommy shamer.

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

Lesli often tells the story of me mommy shaming her shortly after we first met. She offered me a pair of shoes similar to the ones in the picture below and I refused them because “my daughter was not allowed to wear heels.” Yep, I said that. Nope, I am not proud. Yep, it was mommy shaming.

Once I looked back, I realized that I was often mommy-shamed in those early years. I would proudly state my opinion about holistic medicine, homeschooling, etc.… not realizing that just my tone about the subject could be harming another mom.

Mothering is a mystery. Mothering is challenging. At times mothering is flat-out overwhelming. Most of us are insecure of our decisions, especially early on. I think many of us “yell” out our opinion as a cry for affirmation. Unfortunately, our opinions are often seen as mommy shaming.

If you think you might be guilty of being an unaware mommy shamer, here are my suggestions:

  1. Recognize why you mommy shame.
  2. Recognize when you mommy shame.
  3. Strive to be quietly confident, only sharing STRONG opinions among your inner circle.

Mommy shaming divides. We need each other. Let’s spend our time respecting each other, encouraging each other, and loving each other.

You’ve got this!

Find a way to #sayyes today.

 

Enjoy this podcast? Try these Vintage Homeschool Moms podcasts:

Just for homeschool moms. Vintage Homeschool Moms preserves the best of the past while blessing future generations with the fruit that comes from putting God first and using the experience as a teacher. Your host, Felice Gerwitz, is a Christian wife, mother, and educator-turned-homeschool-mom in 1986. She began homeschooling as a trial and never looked back.  Felice’s topics range from home education, child-rearing, enterprising moms, SAHM (Stay at Home Moms), WAHM (Work at Home Moms), and so much more.

Top Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcasts

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

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Filed Under: The Real Kathy Lee Tagged With: , , ,

Special Replay | Mothering is a Marathon with Keri Vasek

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
May 12, 2023 by Leave a Comment

Mothering is a Marathon with Keri Vasek
Mothering is a Marathon with Keri Vasek

It had been a while since I had Keri on the show. Actually, it had been a while since Keri and I had talked in real life. It was good to catch up with her and hear what was on her heart. Keri took a few minutes to catch us up on her home and family.  She has been a busy lady since we last chatted. Next, Keri asked about my suggestions for sibling disagreements. I admit that I don’t know all the answers to this one, but I did have a few thoughts and suggestions to teach children to be kind to one another.

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

 

Keri and I spent a good amount of time talking about a statement I often make during my speaking engagements, “Mothering is a marathon.” I do say that a lot. I really want parents to understand that it isn’t a sprint, it isn’t just getting them to kindergarten, or high school, or even adulthood. It is a long, tough journey that has ups and downs… highs and lows. It will test us, require patience, and definitely demand endurance. It will be worth it. It is worth it.

We chatted a little bit about the popular TV show; This is Us. If you haven’t seen it, you should. I am pretty sure my twin is the writer for this show. I know you feel the same. It is so true, so raw, so needed. We can all learn valuable lessons from this show.

Thanks for listening. If you have topics you would like for me to discuss or people you would like to hear from, let me know. Just email me at kathy@thehomegrownpreschooler.com or shoot me a message on social media.

 

Find a way to #sayyes today.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

 

Enjoy this Podcast? Check These Out from Vintage Homeschool Moms

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

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

 

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Special Replay: Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
October 7, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Why NO and MINE are good words for Toddlers (and a few other toddler tips)I often get asked how to deal with NO and MINE in toddler world. I see them both as positive words for this age. Toddlers are realizing that they are indeed human and separate from their parents. Isn’t what we hope all of our children realize! 😉 Up until this point someone has made all the decisions for them and they FINALLY have a voice. NO, they don’t want peas for dinner. NO, they don’t want to take a bath. NO, they don’t want to go to bed. I bet some toddlers are sooooo excited that they can finally state their opinion. ON this episode, we will talk about this world of toddlers and the many reasons that no and mine are their favorite words. It really is a good thing.

Also in this episode, I will quickly address some other toddler topics… potty training, biting, and pitching fits. I know for many parents, this toddler stage is challenging. I often suggest that parents try and approach this time with a lighthearted spirit. I always encourage gentle, playful parenting whenever possible, especially during the young years.

Find a way to #sayyes today.

 

Don’t forget to subscribe to my podcast and leave a review on iTunes!!!

Thank you to The Homegrown Preschooler for sponsoring this Podcast! Check out the blog post Kathy mentioned, Farmhouse Schoolhouse, to read more about A Year of Playing Skillfully.

Also, to thank you for listening, you can receive a 10% discount on any purchase at

The Homegrown Preschooler by using the code, THEREALKATHYLEE.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

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Special Replay: Creating Inviting Spaces with Your Little Ones

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
September 14, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Kathy Lee answers a question from a listener about playrooms and shares thoughts on creating inviting spaces for your little ones!Special Replay of The Real Kathy Lee:  When my sweet friend, Misty sent me a Marco Polo (a cool video app) asking my opinion on her child’s playroom, I thought it would be a good idea to share my thoughts with all of you on creating inviting spaces for your little ones!

Everyone is worthy of feeling as if they belong, especially our children and most definitely in their own home. Before you begin designing an inviting space for your children, I suggest you get on your hands and knees and crawl around your home. YEP, literally get on your hands and knees. Spaces look so different from a child’s eye level. Ask yourself, how do things look and feel from that level. Are there enough “small” areas for your children to work, play, discover and explore?

  1. Work – Children need small ways to contribute to the family. They need work. Create spaces for their belongings on their level. Have a drawer for their cups, plates, utensils, and special cooking items. Have a bucket with basic cleaning supplies and cloths. Place hooks low enough so that children can hang up their own coats. Creating good habits at a young age pay off.
  2. Play – Children are meant to play. How easy is it to say YES to their ideas for play? Less is definitely more in this area. Children do not need 20 containers full of toys in a playroom. During the early years it is likely that everything that is in a container will end up dumped on the floor, all at once. Buy quality toys and items that inspire open-ended play. This is more engaging for the child. I suggest you keep it basic. Some quality blocks, some arts and crafts materials, something that inspires pretend play (dress up, kitchen, baby dolls, etc..) and a cozy corner with books. Put everything else in a large plastic bin and keep it for a month. During that month, move anything your child asks for into a different bin. Whatever is left in the original bin after a month, donate.

3.  Discover and Explore- Kids need permission to get outside in search of discovery and exploration. Do you have a space for them to do that? Do you have materials such as nature journals, pencils, binoculars, and bird/flower books to inspire them? Keeping these type of items handy will help you say yes!

Creating inviting spaces is worth the time and effort! Get down on your hands and knees and start crawling around your space today!

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

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Special Replay: Schooling Out of the Box with Holly Giles

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
August 24, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Schooling Out of the Box with Holly Giles of The Giles FrontierWhat happens when life throws you a curve ball and you suspect that you need to throw out your entire school plan? Holly Giles knows what happens, you throw the plan out the window.  If you have ever considered schooling out of the box, you will not want to miss this episode. Holly shares openly about their medical scare, how this rocked her homeschooling world and how their family is thriving today.

Holly was so moved by her children’s success with out of the box style learning that she decided to create The Giles Frontier. The Giles Frontier is perfect for families who need an alternative to big box curriculum. This nature-based program meets children where they are during the elementary years and encourages whole family learning.

You can learn more about Holly and the Giles Frontier at http://www.thegilesfrontier.com and you can also connect with Holly on social media at The Giles Frontier.

I know this episode is going to inspire and encourage you!

You’ve got this!

 

Find a way to #sayyes today.

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

 

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