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For the young parents, the veteran homeschoolers, or anyone navigating the waters of homeschool options, nationally-known speaker and educational consultant, Carole Joy Seid, helps you homeschool simply, inexpensively, and enjoyably with a Bible, math curriculum, and library card. Great books have the power to build godly family culture and give educational success! If you need a weekly shot of encouragement and support to continue on with confident joy in your homeschooling journey, listen in.
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As technology continues to develop, you may feel more and more like we're living in a brave new world. With AI becoming more prevalent in everyday life, we want to talk about how we as parents can pursue wisdom while guiding our children through using new technologies. In this episode, Rachel Winchester sits down with Rachel Reeves, a homeschool mom and independent journalist, to discuss the potential repercussions of incorporating AI into learning.RESOURCES+Rachel Reeve’s Substack: Here Are The Headlines+Rachel’s Instagram+Here Are the Headlines for Kids+Government and History Guides by Here Are The Headlines+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust From Crossway
Finding engaging books for boys can be a real challenge for parents. But after listening to this episode, you'll have a treasure trove of recommendations to explore! J.J. Seid shares more than 20 book suggestions that captured his imagination as a child and continue to captivate his own sons today. Beyond entertainment, he also discusses his favorite resources on raising boys with Biblical principles of masculinity in mind. J.J. reveals his top four parenting books and offers thoughtful recommendations on navigating topics of gender and sexuality with children.Whether you choose to read just one book from his list or dive into several, both you and your family will benefit!RESOURCES+For a full list of the books mentioned, go to this week’s episode+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:The Sing! Hymnal from CrosswayTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
One of our core values at Homeschool Made simple is to help families make their children lovers of books. In this episode from the archive, Carole shares about a book called The Enchanted Hour which is written by Wall Street Journal columnist, Megan Cox-Gurdon. Megan writes about the scientific research of the impact of screens versus picture books. Carole discusses how intentional family read-alouds shape children’s brains, foster lasting connections, and give your homeschool a serious academic edge. Join us and be encouraged!RESOURCES+The Enchanted Hour https://www.meghancoxgurdon.com/+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Learn More about CTCMathThe Sing! Hymnal from Crossway
We regularly talk about getting our kids outside to play but do you know the benefits of regular strength training for our kids? How can we encourage this without it becoming a chore? Carole and Rachel sit down with Pilates instructor and homeschool mom, Lauren Wilson, to discuss what inspired her to create the OTP Kids Strength Challenge program which offers opportunities for kids to build balance, coordination, and strength beyond just outdoor play or sports. Join us!RESOURCES+Kids Strength Challenge Program by Olive Tree Pilates & WellnessEnter HMS for 20% off of the kids program+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:We Sing From CrosswayTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
In this episode from the archive, Carole Joy Seid spotlights Patricia St. John, one of the best Christian children's authors of all time. Patricia beautifully incorporates biblical truth into her writing that leaves a lasting impression on children and adults alike. Carol shares a biographical sketch of Patricia St. John and some of her favorite books by the author. Lots of recommendations of standout books like "Treasures of the Snow" and "Star of Light" are included in this episode. We encourage you to add St. John's books to your home libraries to inspire and nurture their children's faith.For a full list of books included in this episode, see our blog here!RESOURCES+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Learn More about CTCMathWe Sing From Crossway
Carole Joy Seid sits down with Kerry Cordy, the founder of Curiosity Untamed, Frontier Girls, and Quest Clubs. Kerry shares how her disappointment with the changing direction of Girl Scouts led her to create a badge-based, interest-led learning programs that encourage hands-on discovery, outdoor activities, and character development for homeschoolers. The clubs are simple, affordable, for all ages and customizable for each club or family. Listen in to learn more!RESOURCES+ Curiosity Untamed: https://curiosityuntamed.com/+Quest Clubs: Co-Ed https://curiosityuntamed.com/clubs/+Frontier Girls: https://curiosityuntamed.com/frontier-girls/+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:
Dream Keeper from CrosswayTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
Need a fresh stack for your family’s read-alouds and personal reading time? In this episode, host Carole Joy Seid shares her current reading stack and other related, trusted favorites. Discover beautiful books for yourself, from novels like "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson and "Cry, the Beloved Country" by Alan Paton, to classic children’s series like "Little Britches." As always, grab our free book list with another 150 recommended books for all ages at http://homeschoolmadesimple.net/booklist. Listen in and get reading!RESOURCES+Click HERE for a complete list of books listed in this episode+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:
Dream Keeper from CrosswayLearn More about CTCMath
Our spiritual development cannot thrive apart from our involvement in the local church. Unfortunately, other commitments often compete for many families time these days. In this episode from the archives, Carole and Pastor Dean Inserra discuss why active participation in a church community is crucial—not only for your children’s godly development but for the health of the entire family.In this episode, you'll hear about:Ways to encourage your children to be in a youth groupHow we can support and encourage our pastorsTips for picking a church that fits your familyThe detriments to “unchurched spirituality”RESOURCES+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Try CTCMath-Half Price DiscountUnplugged Children BundleGive your child the gift of a nature-rich, low-tech childhood!Unplugged Children Bundle
In this episode from our archive, Carole and J.J. share some of the important questions they’ve been asked in their seminars. These are questions that many parents have as they are learning about Homeschool Made Simple’s method. Some of the questions addressed:using HMS method in a single parent householdthe purposes around the our methodaligning your schedule to fit the method in your family lifenavigating your child’s narrow reading interestJoin us and be encouraged!RESOURCES+Click here for a list of the books mentioned in this episode+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:HMS Essentials-Everything you need to jump in!HMS Essentials BundleTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
So you’ve got decided it's time to start homeschooling and you've learned a lot from the podcast or seminars. But you're wondering what this looks like in your everyday life. How do you plan a school year? Today, in this episode from the archive, we talk practicalities from the rhythms of the year to a family’s daily routine. From history’s yearly spine to quiet times…and everything in between. This will help you to prepare! RESOURCES+Unplugging Kids for Daily Rest Time+The Child’s Story Bible by Catherine F Vos+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:HMS Essentials-Everything you need to jump in!HMS Essentials BundleLearn More about CTCMath
In this archive episode, Carole Joy Seid reflects on the remarkable wisdom of Dorothy Moore, wife of Dr. Raymond Moore, two pioneers often referred to as the grandparents of American homeschooling. Carole shares Dorothy’s practical strategies—like building a strong daily routine and focusing young learners on Bible, nature, and hands-on work—became the foundation to her own approach as a homeschool mentor. You will hear stories of Dorothy’s discipline, frugality, Christian faith, and quiet confidence. Book recommendations and fun stories are also included!For a list of books mentioned in this episode, click here!RESOURCES+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Early Education BundleLay a firm foundation for raising children for the kingdom of God!Early Education BundleTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
In this episode from the archives, Carole sits down with her son J.J. to discuss knowing the “why” behind your decision to homeschool. Whether you're considering homeschooling or you're two decades into this adventure, today we're talking about what would cause you to educate your kids at home, and what will sustain you through the years. This episode will help you refresh your memory and give fuel to your fire to press on!RESOURCES+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Unplugged Children BundleGive your child the gift of a nature-rich, low-tech childhood!Unplugged Children BundleLearn More about CTCMath
If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of our conversation with Mellany Zepelak, start there! This episode begins with Mellany sharing the fruit of speaking blessings and encouragement to her children and her husband, noting how these efforts have shifted the tone of her household toward encouragement and empathy. Parents play a powerful role in modeling God’s love to their children. Join us!RESOURCES+The Blessing Seminar+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Get God's Good Design GuideGod's Good Design GuideTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
Homeschooling and family life can drain the life out of us. How do we maintain a right attitude and perspective in our families for the long haul? Carol talks with consulting client Mellany Zepelak about how learning to create margin in her life and receive God's love has transformed her family life. They discuss how adding personal downtime, encouraging a positive home environment, and embracing your identity in Christ can radically improve your family dynamics. Don’t miss this hope-filled conversation!RESOURCES+The Blessing Seminar+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Learn More about CTCMathGet God's Good Design GuideGod's Good Design Guide
The early years of a child's life are crucial for their long term development and success. In this archive episode, Carole, Rachel and her husband, Jesse, discuss how home is the best nest, especially in the preschool years. They share their family’s practical rhythms—like meaningful work, daily nature walks, and lots of read-aloud time—all focused on nurturing curiosity, habits, and character. What kids truly need is loving connection, real-life learning, and parents who are confident guides. You will love this episode if you are moving into a season of preschool-aged children and feel lost!RESOURCES+Books mentioned in this episode:The Big Picture Story Bible by David Helm (published by Crossway)Read-Aloud Bible Stories by Ella Lindvall (Illustrated by Kent Puckett, published by Moody Press)+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Early Education BundleLay a firm foundation for raising children for the kingdom of God!Early Education BundleTry CTCMath-Half Price Discount
Today Carole sat down with Jennifer Stowe, a veteran homeschool mom of six with 27 years of experience. Jennifer shares her journey from reluctant homeschooler to advocate, inspired by Dr. Raymond Moore and Charlotte Mason. She gives practical tips for using great books, embracing time outdoors, and documenting the activities you do each day. This episode is perfect for those seeking reassurance and encouragement as new or experienced homeschool parents to press on!RESOURCES+The Eclectic’s Miscellany by Blossom Arts+The Book of Days by Jennifer Stowe+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Learn More about CTCMathSimply Food Prep!Get our free nutrition bundle to ease the burden of making meals.
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In the second part of our conversation with Leila Lawler, author and homeschool mom, we get practical! How do build a strong and wise family bond that will last for our children’s lives? We discuss a healthy mindset around Christmas, Sabbath rest, seeing children as blessing and making connecting a priority. Join us!RESOURCES+Leila Lawler Blog+The Summa Domestica by Leila Lawler+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Free Reading List for ParentsFree Reading List for Parents
Each memory and value we build within our family adds to the bridge our children are building for their adult life. Our guest, author and blogger Leila Lawler, has written a three-volume set on the value of building a home. In this episode, she shares about how her past informed her writings and the concept of collective memory in this 2-part interview with Carole and Rachel. How do we build a culture in our homes that is worth passing onto our children? Join us!RESOURCES+Leila Lawler Blog+The Summa Domestica by Leila Lawler+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Simply Food Prep!Get our free nutrition bundle to ease the burden of making meals.
Nutrition Bundle
In this episode from the archives, Carole sits down with the owner of Yellow House Story Shoppe, Chelsea Jacobs, to talk about books that we can use to give our children "Windows and Mirrors" into the world and other cultures. The Windows: seeing through the windows to other cultures and stories The Mirrors: children seeing themselves represented in stories. Join us for a wonderful list of books that your family can read to get a fuller appreciation of life around the globe.For a full list of the books mentioned in this episode, find the show notes here RESOURCES+Get $5 off your order with this link to Yellow House Story Shoppe+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Book Lover's Bundle! Use coupon code PODCAST for 15% offBook Lover's Bundle
In this second episode with Jan Bloom, Carole and Jan remind us that true classics—books that have stood the test of time—are far more than relics of the past. These are the stories filled with innocence, joy, and the richness of family life, the very things our modern world sometimes seems to have lost. Whether it’s Wind in the Willows, Winnie the Pooh, or the hilarious works of P.G. Wodehouse, these books are worthy of our time! This episode is chock full of authors to read. Join us!RESOURCES+Check out Jan’s invaluable resources of books and authors at booksbloom.com+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Free Book List
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