Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Are you drowning in interruptions, curveballs, or the chaos of real-life homeschooling—and wondering if you’ll ever get back to consistent days? You’re not alone, friend! This week on the Homeschool Better Together Podcast, I’m joined by DaLynn DeWitt—a South Texas homeschool mom of three, rodeo wife, and self-confessed “all or nothing” personality—who opens up about what it really looks like to homeschool when life goes sideways.DaLynn shares how her school year started with ceilings leaking, family camping out in one bedroom, a kitchen-turned-homeschool zone, and zero hope of a “normal” routine. And yet—she found this was actually one of her most consistent, joyful years ever. (Spoiler: You do NOT need a perfect plan or a Pinterest-ready schoolroom to make homeschool work—you just need a launch point and a whole lot of grace).We talk about the power of starting with just one thing (even if it’s just reading the Bible or a good book), using tools like the Minimum Viable Day, and how to climb out of a rut after illness, loss, and every possible interruption. DaLynn shares her brutally honest take on mindset, figuring out your “good enough” day, and learning when to keep pushing—and when to step outside and catch your breath.If you’re stuck in a season of hard, or just want practical ideas (and a good laugh) on building better routines, you do not want to miss this episode.What you’ll learn:What to do when your “perfect” plan is torpedoed by life (construction, illness, travel… you name it)How starting with just ONE anchor habit can launch the rest of your homeschool dayThe magic of the Minimum Viable Day (when it really is “good enough”)Moving forward after a school slump, setbacks, or ‘failing’ weeksGiving yourself grace—and permission to do less, not more—when everything falls apartWhy consistency doesn’t require perfection (and actually thrives on the opposite)The real secret sauce to building homeschool momentum—and keeping it when you’re tired, grumpy, or overwhelmedResources mentioned in this episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHomeschool Consistency BootcampWonder StudiesHomeschool Better Together Free CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt47

Raise your hand if your homeschool year already feels like it’s veering off course. (Don’t worry, mine’s up too.) Let’s be real: there’s no such thing as one smooth, perfectly consistent homeschool year. Enter…the homeschool reboot.This episode is your practical pep talk for starting over, with zero guilt. I break down why a homeschool reboot isn’t just normal, it might actually be your greatest superpower as a home educator. Whether your family was hit by The Cold That Would Not Die, your house imploded (literally), or you just looked around and realized Morning Time hasn’t happened since February, hear me loud and clear: the restart button is there for a reason, and pressing it is healthy, not humiliating.We’ll cover exactly what a reboot is, why “falling behind” is a myth, and how to refresh your homeschool with grace (for everyone, including yourself).What you’ll learn:How to reset your homeschool without guilt or dramaThe “three core things” strategy for making a reboot stickGrace-filled mindset shifts that make restarts feel lighter, not heavierWhy starting fresh (again) is a homeschool superpowerEasy ways to refresh your physical and mental homeschool spaceWhy celebrating your restart is not just allowed—it’s necessaryResources Mentioned in This Episode:The Grace-Filled Reboot Download (grab your checklist, print it, use it anytime)Free Homeschool CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt46

Ready to actually use a foreign language in your homeschool—and give your high schooler credit for it? This episode is a breath of fresh air for every parent who’s ever tried to check the “foreign language” box…and wondered if anything was actually sticking.Today, I’m joined again by Adelaide Olguin, founder of Talkbox Mom, whose innovative program teaches families to use a second language in real life (think: snack time, errands, or even brushing teeth). She and her husband, Hector, have raised their three boys across five continents, speaking multiple languages wherever they go.Recently, Adelaide expanded Talkbox Mom to serve high schoolers too. If the idea of high school “credit” makes your palms sweat, don’t worry: she’s sharing exactly how to make real-world fluency count for both your transcript and your family connection.We chat about what it takes to homeschool high school foreign language with confidence and joy—even if you’re learning right alongside your teen, juggling multiple ages, or terrified of testing.Wondering if you can keep things hands-on and still get a transcript-ready result? This episode will have you saying “da,” “sí,” or just plain “yes, please!”What you’ll learn:The common pressure (and myth) around “doing high school foreign language right”—and how to actually serve your studentWhy most traditional programs leave kids unable to actually speak another language (even after years of study)How Talkbox Mom’s high school program works (yes, including record keeping, grading, and what “counts” as a credit)Practical ideas to integrate language learning with real family life—no need to become a grammar drill sergeantEasy ways to adapt if you have teens and little ones (or a teen who surprises you with a “random” language they want to study)Why fluency opens up opportunities for college, career, travel, and communityHow to handle grading, cultural projects, and “testing”—especially if you’re learning right along with your teenReal-life encouragement for the “type A” mom who needs a system (but wants actual results)Resources Mentioned:Talkbox Mom + Free Starter Pack and all other resources Adelaide mentionedYMB #54 Natural Foreign Language Learning: A Conversation with Adelaide Olguin (Podcast)Language Learning Made Fun With a Fluency Approach (Podcast)For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt45

Are you homeschooling a neurodivergent child, or just feeling like the “typical” homeschool advice doesn’t fit your real life? This episode is for all the mamas who secretly (or not-so-secretly) wish for a blueprint, but end up building a rollercoaster every single day.Today, I’m joined by Amie, a veteran mom of one, homeschooling her neurodivergent son, and living proof that “just one kid” does NOT mean it’s always a walk in the park! (Try keeping up with a high-speed Wikipedia page who only wants to talk about trains and Japanese sailing. It’s an Olympic sport.)Amie opens up about her journey: from the failed attempt at “Best School in the System” to finding a unique family rhythm at home, letting go of expectations, and embracing a blend of Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and good old, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants adaptability. We dive into what school looks like for a wildly curious, deeply-focused teen and how Wonder Studies (yes, still with her high schooler!) has become a lifeline for jumpstarting curiosity and keeping herself sane.Wonder how to juggle rabbit trails, box-checking, and your own perfectionist guilt? Amie and I get real about dropping the Pinterest boards and finding peace in the “messy middle.” If your homeschool feels all over the place. Spoiler: you’re in good company.What you’ll learn:Why letting go of “school should look like school” is the first step to real joyExactly how Amie balances deep-dive interests with actually “doing the school things”Why unit studies + living books + rabbit holes are magic for neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alikeTips for Morning Time with a single, high-intensity learner (and why baskets save everyone’s sanity!)How Wonder Studies gives teens independence and mamas instant reliefLetting go of perfectionism, surviving “no core subjects this week,” and still raising an amazing kidWhy curiosity and joy matter just as much, if not more, than checking the boxesResources mentioned in this episode:Wonder Studies Annual AccessTeens on Track resources:Morning Time PlansFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt44

Are you craving more joy, flexibility, and real connection in your homeschool? Today’s episode is a deep-dive with Angela Huber, one of our own Homeschool Better Together community moms. Angela’s homeschool journey began like so many: She swore she’d never do it, then got thrown into elearning during 2020 (which, spoiler, did NOT spark joy). Fast-forward, she’s now navigating homeschooling three daughters (with learning differences and a toddler in the mix) and has made some major changes to reclaim that family-learning magic.Angela shares exactly why her family pivoted away from a rigorous co-op (goodbye, hours of homework and family separation!), and leaned all-in with Wonder Studies, family-style learning, and a focus on togetherness. We get honest about the big switch: her fears around consistency and accountability, how she supports her girls with dyslexia, and why it sometimes feels like the toddler is actually the one in charge.We laugh about the morning basket snuggles, get nerdy about “connected learning moments,” and get really real about what matters most: kids who want to be with you (even if the science experiment flops and the baby steals everyone’s pencils).If you’ve ever wondered whether multi-age, family-style learning can actually work (or you need encouragement to step out of the “schooly” grind), this one’s for you.What you’ll learn:The surprising reason Angela ditched an intense co-op (and how it changed her homeschool culture)How she supports TWO kids with dyslexia, builds in “together time,” and keeps learning joyful… even with a toddler underfootExactly what a relaxed, real-life Wonder Studies day looks like (spoiler: it’s not color-coded or Pinterest perfect)The power of “connected learning moments” and why family learning is deeper (and way more fun!)How to overcome fears around “gaps,” consistency, and accountability when you leave a co-opThe simple routines and tools Angela uses to keep learning happening year-roundWhy her kids say their favorite part isn’t a resource or experiment—but simply “being together”Resources mentioned in this episode:Wonder Studies Morning Time resources from PamHistory Plus OnlineSpelling PlusLogic of EnglishHomeschool Better Together Free CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt43

Is your homeschool running on autopilot and losing its spark? You're not alone, and you’re definitely not failing. In this special episode, I’m getting real about a syndrome I call the “Ho Hum Homeschool.” You know, when you’re doing all the things, color-coded planners, checklists, math, and reading, but somehow, none of it feels like actual learning. The days start to blur together. The joy fades. You start wondering: why does this feel so hard? (And if it’s just us, or if everyone’s eating cereal for every meal in May.)Grab a cool drink, your favorite homeschool catalog, and let’s have a gut-check. I’ll walk you through the five big warning signs your homeschool might be a little (or a lot) off track, even if you look good on paper. Spoiler: It’s not about buying new curriculum, hacking your whole schedule, or laminating every last thing in sight.But don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging! I’m inviting you to my favorite (and totally free) workshop, The Case of the Ho Hum Homeschool, where we’ll use some playful detective work and real-life encouragement to uncover the three small but powerful shifts that can bring the heart, the connection, and the joy back into your homeschool days. No trench coat required, I promise.Here’s what we’re covering:The true signs your homeschool is flatlining (even if you’re “checking the boxes”)Why more curriculum and new schedules aren’t the solution to burnout (and what is)Why fun and connection are always the first things to get cut, and how to fix itHow to design a homeschool day that actually feels good for your family (without the guilt or overwhelm)A behind-the-scenes sneak peek at my free, hope-filled workshop to help you reset before next year (even if you’re already tired planning!)Mentioned resources:Sign up for The Case of the Ho Hum Homeschool workshopWonder StudiesOur episode on schedule ideasFree communityReady for clarity and actual hope (not just another to-do list)?Head to pambarnhill.com/hohum to save your seat for the workshop, free, actionable, and replay available!

Are you facing a move and feeling completely overwhelmed about starting over with your homeschool? Maybe you’re wishing for some sense of rhythm and comfort when everything else around you is shifting.In this episode, I talk with Melaney Smith, a pastor’s wife and homeschool mom of three, about what it’s like to leave everything behind and begin again. Melaney recently moved her family from Stockton, California, all the way to the snowy prairies of North Dakota. She generously shares what it was like to grieve, adjust (and freeze!), and eventually discover her new groove as a homeschooling mom.We talk about what really happens when your routines get tossed upside-down and how to handle the emotional load, the reality of creating community in a completely new place, and how tools like Autopilot became Melaney’s secret weapon during the chaos. In her story, you’ll find surprising insights about why familiar routines matter so much during big transitions and how flexible habits can truly anchor your family when everything else feels unfamiliar.If you are walking through a big life change or just need some honest encouragement (plus a few laughs about frozen winters and missing good hot sauce), you’ll find practical help and camaraderie right here.What you’ll learn:What actually happens (emotionally and practically) when you move cross-country with your family and begin homeschooling againHow consistency and familiar homeschool rhythms can help everyone adjust after a big moveWhy planning tools and a supportive community are essential during chaotic seasonsThe basics of “Minimum Viable Days” and why these can be a lifesaver when your regular routines are impossibleCreative ideas for adapting your homeschool to new climates, schedules, and culturesWhy taking three to five years to feel at home is normal—and perfectly okayHow letting go of perfection and choosing to show up faithfully brings peace and growthResources mentioned:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHomeschool Consistency BootcampPodcast episode on the Minimum Viable DayHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt42

Ever feel like “life” is just too much to keep homeschooling going? This one’s for you.I sat down with Karissa Martin, a mom of four, seasoned homeschooler, and expert juggler who, this year alone, faced one family crisis after another: illness, caretaking, and more than a few emotional curveballs. But you know what? Not only did her family make it through, but they actually experienced more growth than they have in years.We talk about the sandwich generation (yes, it even counts with grandparents), trying to keep homeschool afloat while at the hospital, late-night co-op assignments, and what it really looks like to let your vision and community hold you up when you can’t do it on your own.Karissa pulls back the curtain on how she hit burnout, learned to finally ask for help, and found a “village” when she needed it most. She also reveals how, even with all the chaos, her kids’ education didn’t just survive…it thrived.We don’t sugarcoat the messy parts, but you’ll come away with real encouragement, practical ideas for finding your footing in a tough season, and a hefty dose of hope.What you’ll learn:How Karissa homeschooled during crisis and family caretaking (without losing her mind)The do-the-next-thing approach to planning that kept her from feeling behindWhy she now plans her whole homeschool year—spoiler: this saved her baconHow asking for help (even when it’s hard) changes everythingLife lessons her kids learned from supporting extended familyWhy “behind” is almost always in your headThe reality of burnout—and Karissa’s steps for climbing outThe surprising ways community can show up, even when you think you don’t have a villageResources Mentioned:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHSBT Podcast Free CommunityWant more help with planning your year, surviving the messy seasons, and connecting with a community that actually gets it? Come join us in our free group!For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt41

Are you in a season where homeschooling just feels… well, impossible? Juggling toddlers, moving houses, job changes—or maybe even facing heart surgery for your baby? Deep breath—friend, this episode is proof you really can keep going, even in the crazy!Today I’m joined by my friend, marketing pro, and veteran homeschool mom Tracey Matney. Tracey’s not only teaching her 8-year-old son (since Pre-K!)—she’s also wrangling a busy toddler after a wild couple of years filled with moving, house fires, a not-quite-soon-enough home build, having a newborn in a borrowed back-house, and that earth-shaking moment when her baby needed open heart surgery at just four months old.If you’ve ever thought, “How am I supposed to homeschool through THIS?”—Tracey’s story will encourage you and give you a good reality check on what truly matters. (Spoiler: Perfectionism is out, “the main things” are in.)What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While Under PressureThe only subjects that really matter during a crisis season (and what to ditch)How to build resilience—even when chaos reigns at home (hint: Bible, breakfast, and deep breaths)The power of homeschool community and leaning on others when you simply can’t do it allPractical ways to pivot your plans, release perfection, and keep going—even when you want to quitHow Autopilot planning (and a clear homeschool vision) transforms your confidence and sanity—not just your lesson listsWhy letting your kids see you grow is its own kind of homeschool winLinks and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotBeast Academy math (for independent/gifted math)IEW Fix It GrammarStory of the World (history)Tracey’s InstagramFree Homeschool CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to 

Are you ready to break out of “school-at-home” thinking and finally build a homeschool rhythm that fits YOUR real life—not just the one in the curriculum guide?This week, I invited our two resident schedule-geeks—Laney Homan and Dawn Garrett—into the studio for a lively, practical (and very honest) roundtable on all things homeschool schedules.We’re tackling the myth that there’s only one “right” way to schedule your homeschool, sharing why nobody here gets up for a 7am school bus…and giving you permission to let go of what doesn’t work for your unique family.We walk through six of the most popular scheduling types (yep, there’s math, but not the scary kind), spill the biggest scheduling mistakes we’ve made, and show you what flexibility really looks like through every messy season.No pressure. Just lots of ideas, permission to pivot, and some hilarious overscheduling confessions from yours truly.If you secretly geek out over planners—or if you just wish someone would tell you WHY you can never stick to the schedule the public school uses—this is your episode.Grab your coffee, open your planner (or don’t), and join us for a real talk that just might make your next homeschool season your smoothest yet.What You’ll Learn:The most common homeschool schedule types and why families choose themHow to start with intention (not just “fall into” inconsistent routines)Why your schedule can (and should) change as your family grows and life shiftsHow to adapt for outside classes, big family needs, and real-life curveballsThe difference between loop and block scheduling (and which one to use if you always skip science!)How to use “magic number” scheduling for ultimate flexibility—and what to avoidPermission to experiment, change things up, or even go back to traditional if that’s what worksResources Mentioned in this Episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotLoop Schedule VideoHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt39.

What happens when your homeschool plan goes on the road—literally? Today, I’m joined by second-generation homeschooler and seasoned moving pro, Adrienne Denison, to talk about schooling through cross-country moves, starting over in a new place, and making sure your curriculum doesn’t get lost between boxes of Legos and winter coats.Adrienne unpacks (pun absolutely intended) the lessons she’s learned navigating three major moves in just six months, transitioning her four kids through pivotal school years—and why she’s so passionate about not letting perfect get in the way of done. As a CC (Classical Conversations) family and longtime Autopilot user, Adrienne shares her best tactical tips for planning, packing, downsizing, and keeping your school system humming even when life’s upside down.If you’ve ever wondered how to homeschool when your schedule and address are both a moving target, this episode is full of honest encouragement, practical hacks, and permission to let some things go so you can say yes to connection, community, and new beginnings (even if it means doing math on the trampoline).What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While MovingHow Adrienne survived three “mini-moves” in one big cross-country adventureHer secret for never losing track of curriculum (even with boxes everywhere)What to toss, keep, or give away—and why purging was actually a blessingWhy Adrienne doesn’t mind letting academics take a back seat after a big moveHow using Homeschool on Autopilot helped her keep everyone on track (and sane)Tips for banking “school days” early and freeing up time for finding new friendsWhy supporting your family’s emotional needs is just as critical as checking boxes—and yes, you have permission to lamentAdrienne’s best hack for organizing books, prepping for high school, and making your next move smoother (even if it’s just down the street)Links and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotConsistency BootcampClassical ConversationsMagic Number SchoolingDark Clouds, Deep Mercy (book on lamenting)Homeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt38

It’s curriculum season, and you know what that means: a flood of shiny programs, glowing reviews, and unboxing videos that make everything look like the answer to your homeschool stress. But here’s my honest take—it only counts if it actually works for your own real-life family, not just the influencer on YouTube.Today, I’m flying solo to give you my six best questions to ask yourself BEFORE you hit “add to cart” on that next curriculum (plus a bonus one at the end). This is all about helping you dodge curriculum regret, stop chasing endless FOMO, and make smart, confident choices—even when everything looks “perfect” out there.Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned vet with a closet full of half-used programs, you’ll find practical strategies, real talk, and permission to pivot without guilt. I’ll share my own wins (hello, DIY Shakespeare lessons) and fails (science experiments we never actually did) so you can learn from my messy middle.Links and Resources From Today’s ShowThe Lively Art of Writing (classic writing instruction)All About Reading / All About Spelling (for phonics and hand-holding)Language Arts Together plansMr. D MathTeens on TrackOur free homeschool community (join and ask your questions!)What You'll Learn About Choosing CurriculumAre you making your curriculum choice based on your season of life—or wishful thinking?How to ditch the comparison spiral and stop second-guessing yourselfThe ONE thing every curriculum that “works” has in common (spoiler: it isn’t expensive flashcards or pretty boxes)Concrete examples to help you decide if you need hand-holding—or can wing it like a proWhy you don’t NEED to die on every homeschool hill (goodbye, busywork battles!)Sneaky ways life seasons—from new babies to job changes—should guide your curriculum decisionsFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt37.

Let’s get brutally honest: no single curriculum is ever going to save your homeschool, fix your child’s attitude, or turn your kitchen into one of those magical, Instagram-perfect learning havens. If you’re looking for the “unicorn curriculum,” keep dreaming (or better yet, listen up—because we’re about to set you free).In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, I sat down with the queen of curriculum experimentation, Laney Homan—our Community Success Manager, veteran homeschool mom of eight, and half-marathon runner (yes, we’re still impressed!). Together, we pull back the curtain on what really makes curriculum work in a real-life homeschool, how to shop smarter (hello, shelves full of unused programs), and the hard truth about independence and motivation—for kids and parents alike.What You'll Learn About Homeschool CurriculumWhat happens when you stop endlessly chasing “the perfect” and start shopping for curriculum that fits your real goals (and real kids)How shifting your curriculum approach can lead to better results, fewer tears, and way less guilt-shoppingWhy independence can’t be bought (no matter how “open-and-go” something claims to be)The exact way Laney pivots when a program stops working (hint: it’s not about “fancy” or new, it’s about needs)How curriculum is really a TOOL, not a magic wand, and how to think like a confident homeschool parent who’s in the driver’s seatThe value of togetherness and why our “Together” curriculum line is saving the sanity of big families and moms with laundry piles as tall as their teensLinks and Resources From Today’s ShowAll About ReadingPhonics Museum (Veritas Press)Homeschool Consistency BootcampWonder Studies and Together Curriculum LineTeens on TrackTeen Task Card MasterClassPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt36

Are you hesitant to homeschool? You're not alone! In this episode of Homeschool Better Together, host Pam Barnhill chats with Mandy McArthur and Jessica Solis Carpinelli, authors of "Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions." Mandy and Jessica share practical insights and encouragement for parents considering homeschooling but feeling apprehensive. Discover how a strong support system and the right resources make all the difference. They tackle common fears like socialization concerns and not knowing enough to teach, revealing that homeschooling is more about teaching children how to learn than being an expert in every subject. Jessica explains, “We aren’t expected to be experts in everything... we’re trying to teach our kids how to learn.” Meanwhile, Mandy emphasizes the importance of community, advising parents to connect and say “yes” to building relationships with other homeschoolers. Listen in for inspirational stories that might just help you take the leap with confidence.Key Takeaways:Homeschooling is about teaching kids how to learn, not teaching every subject.Build a supportive community by saying yes to opportunities and events.Socialization through homeschooling is different but equally impactful.Adjusting to homeschooling involves embracing flexibility and redefining structure.Many colleges welcome homeschooled students, often appreciating their unique educational perspectives.Links and Resources:Hesitant to Homeschool: Answers to 20 Common Questions by Mandi McArthur and Jessica Solis CarpinelliThe Coop Homeschool Homeschool Better Together WebsiteHomeschool Better Together PodcastHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt35

Homeschooling high school feels like a big shift. Suddenly, you’re looking at advanced subjects, keeping transcripts, and preparing your teen for what comes next. In this episode, I sit down with Meg Angelino, our operations manager and curriculum editor, to talk about what happens when you start outsourcing classes while still juggling motherhood. We discuss our journeys toward more organized homeschools, and the vital role our online community plays in offering encouragement and fresh ideas. Listen in to gain practical insights on the changing roles as a parent, keeping students motivated, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with transitioning to high school. Key Takeaways:Outsourcing reduces stress while ensuring a solid education.Feeling overwhelmed? Consider online courses, co-ops, or dual enrollment.Stay involved—check assignments, discuss lessons, and help with deadlines.Options include live/self-paced online courses, hybrid programs, co-ops, and community college classes.Teens need independence but still require guidance.Keep core traditions like Morning Time, read-alouds, and discussions to maintain your homeschool’s values.Links and Resources:Homeschool Better Together PodcastPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotMere Motherhood by Cindy RollinsNavigating High SchoolAndrew Pudewa's Institute for Excellence in WritingColleen Kessler Raising Lifelong Learners Kristin Moons ScienceMr. D MathHomeschool Better Together Free CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt34To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Homeschooling high school can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, our community manager, Dawn Garrett, steps in as host to chat with homeschool mom Elizabeth Overcash about her experience navigating these crucial years. Elizabeth, a retired military wife, shares her unique perspective—having one child who graduated from a traditional school while homeschooling her younger two.She talks about shifting from a hands-on teaching style to more of a coaching role, balancing structure with flexibility, and helping her teens take ownership of their education. She also discusses how she integrates out-of-the-box learning, like film studies and Scouting, while ensuring her kids meet high school requirements.Key Takeaways:The transition to homeschooling high school doesn’t have to be scary—it’s about adjusting your role from teacher to guide.Structure matters, but so does allowing flexibility for real-life learning.Giving teens ownership over their curriculum choices boosts motivation and engagement.Planning tools like Navigating High School and Plan Your Year can make the process smoother.Homeschooling high school is about preparing kids for life, not just checking academic boxes.Links and Resources:Homeschool Better Together PodcastNavigating High SchoolPut Your Year AutopilotHomeschool Better Together CommunityCure the Fear of Homeschooling High School by Anne KarakoAndrew Pudewa's Structure and Style programCollege Prep GeniusSarah MacKenzie Read-Aloud Revival PodcastFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt(33)

In this episode, I sit down with Denise Gaskins, math educator and author, to talk about how we can transform math from a dreaded subject into something joyful and engaging. Denise shares why so many homeschoolers struggle with math and how shifting our approach can make a huge difference.She encourages parents to make math playful through games, storytelling, and real-life problem-solving. Whether you have a math-loving child or one who resists every lesson, Denise’s insights will help you bring curiosity and creativity into your homeschool math routine.Tune in for practical strategies to build math confidence and make learning more enjoyable for the whole family!Key Takeaways:Math Should Be Playful – Learning math through games, puzzles, and real-life applications makes it more engaging and less intimidating for kids.Ditch the Memorization-Only Approach – Understanding why math works is more valuable than rote memorization. Encourage exploration instead of just drilling facts.Use Stories to Teach Math – Turning math problems into narratives or real-world situations makes them more meaningful and relatable for kids.Encourage Mathematical Thinking – Instead of giving answers right away, ask your kids questions like “What do you think?” or “How else could we solve this?”It’s Okay to Change Your Approach – If a curriculum isn’t working, try something new! Hands-on learning, different resources, or adjusting your teaching style can make a big difference.Focus on Confidence, Not Just Correct Answers – Helping kids feel comfortable making mistakes and thinking through problems builds long-term math success.Math Doesn’t Have to Be a Daily Battle – Shift the focus from completing worksheets to fostering curiosity and discovery.Links and Resources: Homeschool Better Together Free CommunityDenise Gaskins WebsiteDenise Gaskins' BlogDenise Gaskins Playful Math StoreThe "If Not Methods" blog SeriesMy Math Journaling Adventures KickstarterFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt32To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Consistency in homeschooling can be a game-changer, and today I’m joined by Krystal Joslin, a military homeschooling mom and graduate of the Homeschool Consistency Boot Camp. Krystal shares how she went from a go-with-the-flow approach to building a structured, consistent homeschool routine that works—despite frequent moves and unpredictable schedules.She opens up about the challenges she faced, the small changes that made the biggest difference, and how consistency has transformed her homeschool (and her confidence as a mom!). If you're struggling to find a rhythm, Krystal’s story will encourage you that small changes lead to big results.Key Takeaways:Small, consistent habits build a strong homeschool foundation.Clear expectations reduce resistance from kids.A simple daily routine can keep learning on track.Self-reflection and small tweaks lead to long-term success.Homeschooling confidence grows with consistency.Links and Resources: Homeschool Better Together CommunityHomeschool Consistency Boot CampRead-Aloud Revival with Sarah McKenzieThe Long Winter by Laura Ingalls WilderThe Magician's Nephew by C.S. LewisFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt31To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

Are you ready to tackle consistency in your homeschool? In this episode, I’m joined by Dawn Garrett to talk about one of my favorite tools: the Minimum Viable Day (MVD). We share how this simple concept helped us overcome perfectionism and establish daily momentum in our homeschools. Learn how to identify what truly matters for your family, create a flexible fallback plan, and build trust with your kids—all while simplifying your homeschool days.Key Takeaways:What a Minimum Viable Day is and why it’s a game-changer for consistency.How MVD evolves with your homeschool season and supports your unique needs.Practical tips for creating your own MVD and sticking to it.Key Resources:Homeschool Better Together PodcastHomeschool Consistency Boot CampTo Kill A Mockingbird by Harper LeeEverything Sad is Untrue by Daniel NayiriHow the States Got Their ShapesMagic School BusZoboomafooLiberty's KidsWhere in the World is Carmen Sandiego? by Rebecca TinkerAtomic Habits by James ClearFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt30To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.

It’s time to make 2025 the year of intentional progress! In this episode, I’m joined by Laney Homan, our member success manager, to talk about goal setting that works for busy homeschool moms. Laney and I discuss the difference between planning and goal setting, the power of starting small, and how to craft goals that fit your life’s current season.We share personal stories—like Laney’s inspiring journey to tackle health and fitness goals (she climbed a literal mountain!)—and I reflect on finding meaningful ways to reclaim my evenings. Whether you're climbing your own mountain or simply figuring out the next right step, this episode is full of practical advice to help you move toward growth in your homeschool and beyond.Key Takeaways:The distinction between planning tasks and setting intentional goals.Breaking goals into tiny, achievable steps to build momentum.Why it's essential to align goals with your family’s needs and current life season.How tools like goal cards and habit tracking can help keep you on course.Resources and Links: Elevate 2025 ProgramHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt29To join our free homeschool community, you can create an account right here.