The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast

Homeschoolers are uniquely positioned to keep Advent in the way the Church encourages, bringing back traditions to deepen our faith as we prepare for the coming of Our Savior.Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny bring home the message that, despite what the big-box store says, Christmas does not begin when Halloween ends. Here’s what your family can do. Show Notes:In recent years, the practice of observing Advent has grown lukewarm. Many forget that the Christmas season begins on December 24th with the Vigil of the Solemnity of the Nativity.Homeschoolers are uniquely positioned to lead the way and keep Advent, one of the richest and most beautiful of liturgical seasons, in the way the Church encourages. If you are called to bring back traditions that deepen our faith as we prepare for the coming of Our Savior, here’s how:An easy observance: The Advent wreath·      Three purple and one rose-colored candle·      Light the candles, adding one each week, at dinner time.·      You can find lots of Advent wreath prayers online.How to Make Observing “Little Lent” FunThis is a penitential season, often called “Little Lent.”Children are very visual - explain the meaning of the season's colors.Purple for the Penitential seasonRose colored Gaudete Sunday.Christmas is gold and white.Ask them to notice:The Gloria is removed from Mass, just as it is in Lent.But the Alleluia is kept because we are anticipating a joyful birth.Use an Advent calendar or a paper chain to count down the days.If you make a paper chain:Use purple paperOne pink chain link for Guadete SundayCelebrate Catholic New Year’sThe Saturday night before the first Sunday in AdventThis year – 12/29/25Make a special dinner.Have party hats and noisemakersSparkling apple juice to toast the new liturgical yearPut out a Nativity set.Leave out the infant Jesus for now.Keep a jar or basket of straw nearby.When the children make a sacrifice or penance, have them place a straw in the manger to make a soft bed for Baby Jesus.Enthrone Baby Jesus after midnight on December 24Celebrate the SaintsBecause Advent contains both penance and joy, we can celebrate the many feast days throughout the season.December 4th, the feast of St. Barbara, patroness of architects, you might build a graham cracker house.December 9th, for St. Juan Diego’s feast, make a brown paper tilma and serve tacos.December 12th, to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, create paper roses and enjoy Mexican hot cocoa.Observe Ember Days and O Antiphons. These lesser-known liturgical observances of the Church are beautiful. 2025 Advent Activities for Catholic Homeschoolers has over 200 activities, crafts, and recipes for Advent.2025 Advent Activities for Catholic Homeschoolers are Available for purchase.2025 Advent Activities for Catholic Homeschoolers Free Download Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Want to be the hero of your homeschool week? Pull out a game board!In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share how to “gamify” your homeschooling—turning lessons into fun challenges that build motivation, confidence, and joy in learning. Discover how games activate the brain’s reward system, sneak in skill-building, and bring your family closer together (while making Mom look like a genius).Show Notes:Activating the brain’s reward system releases dopamine—making learning pleasurable.A perfect boost for memorizing math facts, Latin declensions, and more.Board games and gamified lessons can be your best-kept homeschool secret.Playing Games vs. Gamifying LessonsPlaying Games = Using an existing board, card, or online game to reinforce skills.Gamifying Lessons = Adding game-style elements—points, levels, challenges—to regular schoolwork.Gamification makes learning feel like play by adding:Friendly competitionSmall rewardsVisible achievements The focus is still on learning, but the experience feels like a game!How to Gamify Your HomeschoolAward points or badges for completed tasks.Allow badges to be traded for privileges (screen time, outings, desserts).Laugh about it—yes, it’s a little like potty-training bribery, but it works!Examples:Each handwriting sheet = 5 minutes of tablet time.A near-perfect math lesson = 10 extra minutes before bedtime.“Beat the clock” challenges for spelling or Latin drills.100-day streak = family outing or prize.Learning Through PlayGames aren’t just fun—they teach life lessons:Taking turns and waiting patientlyLosing gracefully and trying againCongratulating others on successCounting, reading, strategy, and critical thinkingFavorite Educational GamesTry these family favorites for skill-building and fun:Scrabble – spelling and vocabularyBird Bingo – nature and observationYahtzee – math and probabilityCount Your Chickens (Peaceable Kingdom) – teamwork for younger kidsKerplunk – logic and planningMemory games – recall and focusMonopoly – money managementMath Bingo or Flashcard War – fast-paced reviewMore Ways to Gamify Reading & WritingReading Bingo: Make a bingo card with challenges like “Read under a blanket with a flashlight” or “Read a poem aloud.” Each square earns points or stickers.Story Quests: Break a writing assignment into “quest steps”—draft, edit, illustrate, share. Each completed step earns a “quest token.” Collect enough tokens and unlock a special reward.Monster Battle Spelling Test: Present spelling words as a “battle.” Each correct word defeats part of the “monster.” If all the words are correct, the student wins the battle.Gamifying MathTimed Challenges: Beat the clock on a set of problems and earn a badge for each level (bronze, silver, gold).XP Points for Mastery: Each new math skill mastered earns “experience points.” At certain totals, the student “levels up.”Treasure Hunt Problems: Hide math problems around the house. Each correctly solved problem gives a clue to where the “treasure” (small prize or snack) is hidden.Gamifying History & ScienceTimeline Quests: For each chapter studied, students earn a “timeline card” to add to a big wall chart. When the timeline is complete, they unlock a “History Hero” badge.Experiment Badges: Every science experiment successfully carried out earns a lab badge (like “Junior Chemist” or “Rocket Scientist”).Exploration Maps: Track progress on a map—e.g., each time they learn about a new country or historical event, place a sticker or flag to “conquer” that territory.Everyday GamificationStreaks & Challenges: Track days in a row of practicing piano, praying morning prayers, or writing in a journal. Celebrate hitting the streak goal.Bottom Line: Whether you’re playing a classic game or creating your own, the goal is joyful learning. Sometimes the lesson is math or spelling—sometimes it’s simply family togetherness.❤️ Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

So many problems that homeschool moms face can be solved by developing the habit of consistency. Lack of consistency has derailed many a homeschool.Today, Ginny and Mary Ellen distill their years of experience into ten simple and practical tips to bring harmony of practice, firmness of character, and lasting success to your homeschool. Show Notes:Consistency can be hard in every season of homeschool life. It’s hard for everyone. Mostly it’s about developing good habits, and each year presents a new set of circumstances, so new habits and routines must be developed.These Ten Tips Will Help Get You in the New Groove.Have weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly goals.Start the day with what is most important and difficult to get done.  Keep to a daily rhythm: do the same things at around the same time every day. Children, especially small children, do much better with routines.Set clear expectations. Habit stack. The excellent book Habit Stacking by S.J. Scott recommends linking a new habit to an already existing one.  For example, you brush your teeth every morning, so while you are doing that, you can say your morning offering. Treat your homeschool hours as sacrosanct.  Do not look at your phone, turn on the TV, or answer the door. You are at work, and only emergencies should distract you.Be miserly with your time outside of homeschool. Carefully and prayerfully discern outside activities. Have a “set in concrete” check-in time for each child to keep them accountable and to make sure they are keeping up with the work.Don’t schedule too much work in a day. a.    Start with too little and gradually increase to the sweet spot. b.    Do some subjects like history and science every other day. c.     Make a schedule that works for each child. Overwhelm is death to consistency.Once in a while, be inconsistent. Stepping out of the box helps keep you on track when you need to be. Habit Stacking by S.J. Scott Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Remember life as a newlywed?  You vaguely knew you would have to cook, but hey, your husband could cook, and maybe you'd eat dinner out sometimes. Now, three or four kids later, you barely have time to shop for the food, much less prepare it!  Need help? Ginny and Mary Ellen have solutions and more on today's podcast. Show Notes:Struggling to find time to plan and prepare meals?Use the KISS Meal Plan: Keep it Simple, Stupid1. Remember, leftovers are your friend - Find ways to stretch one meal into two.* If your family goes through one pound of pasta at dinner, make two.  Have it for lunch the next day or for dinner two days from now. - Add some cheese and make mac and cheese, or red sauce, a bit of meat, and some pizza cheese, and make poor man's lasagna.   * If you buy a rotisserie chicken, put the carcass in a slow cooker with veggies and have soup later in the week.  2. Want to have a salad every night?* Want the health benefits, but don't feel like preparing one? Make a big salad one night. Store it in the fridge in a covered container with a napkin or paper towel in it.  * The paper absorbs moisture, keeping the salad fresh.3. Think simple* Nothing is easier than baked potatoes; wash them, prick with a fork, and bake.  * Fancy potato dishes can wait until the kids get older.4. Teaching Life Skills through Meal Prep* At four years old, teach your oldest to set the table, and it's off your to-do list forever.* Kids are more likely to try a food they have helped prepare.* Teach your primary school children to:Scrub potatoesPeel and chop veggiesDip cutlets in eggs and bread crumbsYou are teaching them your family's heritage5. Food choicesOur children have an obesity problem and need to eat healthier foods. Here are some hints:Serve fresh, healthy food first. Let kids make a fruit or veggie tray as an appetizer.One menu only – this is dinner –take it or leave it. Have to take a taste.Enjoy food with your children.6. Mealtime manners Children's likes and dislikes are not proper table talk; if the child doesn't like something, the correct way to express that is, "No thank you," when the food is offered.No eating before graceNo reaching No disgusting behavior like chewing with your mouth openDon't hunch over food – no one is coming to steal it from youNo screens, just conversation – 3 things you are thankful for; someone you helped todayAsk to be excusedRules like placing your napkin on your lap or using utensils instead of your fingers to pick up food may seem overly formal for family meals.  But today's young adults report feeling uncomfortable when they have to attend business luncheons.7. After dinnerEveryone clears their own placeAn older child or parent rinses and stacksYounger child loads the dishwasherA child wipes the table and fixes the chairsThe floor is sweptConsider setting the table for tomorrow's breakfastHomeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Has anyone questioned your sanity for deciding to homeschool? The questions you hear range from silly to insulting. Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny prepare you for those questions in a fun way.Show Notes:Don't be caught off guard. These replies, mostly tongue-in-cheek, provide responses to various things homeschool detractors might say to you. 1. Homeschooling? Is that even legal?The pandemic may have rendered this question moot, but I have received it nonetheless. The reply is that, yes, of course it is legal in all fifty states. Homeschooling, thanks to the efforts of some brave mothers and fathers, including Dr. Mary Kay Clark, is now legal and even commonplace in the United States.2. Aren't you concerned that your children will have no friends? What about socialization?That this question continues to be asked astonishes me. Study after study shows that homeschooled children do as well or better in social situations than children who attend brick-and-mortar schools.3. You must be so patient.I have a little secret to tell you. I lack patience. "I have more patience for my own children than I would have for thirty children in a classroom."That usually stops the conversation.4. Your children will know nothing of the world or of pop culture.Your reply to this silly question can be, "Which R-rated movie would you suggest my ten-year-old see to bring him up to speed?"5. How will you teach calculus?When people ask what I am going to do about calculus, ancient Greek, or organic chemistry, I generally say, "Well, I thought I might ask you to tutor them. After all, you went to public school, so you must be qualified."6. What about the prom? How can you deny your child a prom?The fact is, many homeschool groups hold proms for their high school kids because if a homeschooled kid wants a prom, he/she will plan and execute one with a little guidance from an adult. Homeschooled kids are like that; they get stuff done.7. I could never homeschool; I want my kids to have a life.You want them to have a life, so you lock them in the same room every day with the same twenty-five people, listening to the same person day after day. In contrast, my children are out in the world, meeting people, taking classes, and having the freedom to try new things. Tell me again, who is lacking life experiences?8. Why would you want your kids around all day? Don't they drive you crazy?Here's the thing: I actually like my kids. I'm glad I have them. They are funny and smart, and their presence fills me with joy and gratitude.That's not to say that they don't drive me crazy sometimes, but so do people who ask silly questions.9. How will your children learn how to line up?I'm not kidding. This is a genuine question that homeschool mothers often get asked. It stems from some post-cafeteria stress syndrome people have.The response is to call your children to you and ask them to line up. It's easier for certain people to have a visual. Then laugh. Seriously, laugh your head off.10. What is your child going to do for a high school diploma?Well, if my kid graduates from Seton, they will receive an accredited diploma. Bottom Line: Don't let anyone question your motives or desire to homeschool your children, but rather, let them know that you are equal to the task and unwavering in your commitment. Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Homeschooling an only child or the youngest with older siblings? Ginny and Mary Ellen share tips to keep your ‘caboose’ happy, engaged, and thriving. Tune in for encouragement and practical ideas! Show Notes:Got a homeschool ‘caboose baby’—the only child left at home? Here are six creative ways to keep them happy, engaged, and thriving.Tip #1 – Search for Co-opsEven if you’ve checked before, look again—new groups often form.Some only meet weekly, but it’s still a chance to connect.Tip #2 – Offer Classes YourselfShare your skills with other homeschooling families—teach French, math, or science right from your dining room.Low-cost or free classes attract families, and your child gains schoolmates.Tip #3 – Explore Local ProgramsMany libraries, museums, zoos, and 4-H clubs run homeschool days.Programs may not be Catholic, but they’re great for meeting wonderful families.Tip #4 – Invite a BuddyBring a homeschooled friend along for field trips or activities.Offering transportation makes it easier—and gives your child a partner in learning.Tip #5 – Build Sports into the DayPractice basketball, soccer, or skating during daytime hours.Many rinks and facilities offer off-peak sessions and lessons.Sports fill free time productively and provide team connections after school.Tip #6 – Encourage Work OpportunitiesYounger kids can help neighbors with pets, yard work, or babysitting.Middle schoolers can be mother’s helpers or take on light chores.Building reliability and a strong work ethic early often opens doors later.Whether through co-ops, sports, or neighborhood jobs, there are countless ways to make sure your “caboose” thrives in homeschooling life. Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Jesus Christ calls us to spread the Good News. Fostering religious vocations is one of the most effective ways to answer that call. Sensitive to the issue, Catherine contacted us on Facebook and asked us to discuss ways we can foster these vocations.It’s a timely topic, and today, Mary Ellen and Ginny are delighted to discuss ways to foster vocation in our homeschool families. Show Notes:Hey, you are already fostering vocations because you homeschool.  Homeschooled men are four times more likely to enter the seminary when compared to Catholic school graduates.*In 2023, 11% of newly ordained priests had been homeschooled. 14% of newly professed members of religious orders had been homeschooled.*Based on a study by The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate – known as CARA – at Georgetown UniversityOther Ways to Foster Homegrown VocationsHave more kids if you are blessed to do so! In 2013, most ordinations came from families with four or more children.  Use Catholic materials in your homeschool.  A solid catechism program is essential, and it can be enhanced by adding biographies of the saints, many of whom were priests or religious.  Learning about the significant role Catholics, especially Catholic religious, have played in history and science can be inspiring to young minds.Show your children the beauty of the Catholic Church. Expand your horizons - Visit your diocesan cathedral.  When traveling, look for beautiful churches, shrines, convents, and monasteries to inspire your children.  Consider retreats and spiritual direction for high school students.  An older student who shows interest in the priesthood or religious life may greatly benefit from one-on-one attention.  See what is available in your area.Check out this interview we did with Fr. Phillip Schumaker.  It’s definitely worth a listen.Father Schumaker- Encouraging Faithfulness and Vocations in your Students 3/8/24Father Andrew Clark’s Video: Homeschooling and VocationsHomeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Do you remember when you took your wedding vows and promised to accept children from God and raise them in the faith? You repeated that vow each time one of your children was baptized. But what does this vow require of us homeschoolers?  Today, Ginny and Mary Ellen discuss keeping that promise and training our children to be responsible and respectful adults by living according to Church teaching.   Show Notes:Why it's Important:Raising virtuous children is part of our homeschooling vocation.  Along with reading, 'riting, 'rithmetic, and religion, we parents must teach our children another R -- responsibility, and yet still another R -- respect for authority, Responsibility – We do not raise children, we are raising adultsTwo books to model on:Bringing up Bebe, American author Pamela Druckerman talks about French children emptying the dishwasher at 3.  Farmer Boy, Laura Ingalls Wilder recounts how her husband Almanzo was training a yoke of oxen at nine years old.Yesterday – Higher ExpectationsIn rural areas, 75 years ago, Little boys:Hauled wood and waterCared for animals starting when they were maybe 5 or 6.  Worked in the fields.  Girls didn't get off easy either: They kept the fires going, weeded gardens, and helped with laundry before washing machinesToday - Living Up to Low ExpectationsHoly Mother Church teaches that Sloth – laziness – is one of the seven deadly sins.Diligence – applying oneself to hard work –is one of the opposing seven heavenly virtues.  We are required by our vows to forbid laziness and encourage hard work.Give Your Children Real Work to DoToddlers can stow their diapers and dirty clothes and pick up their toys. As kids get older, they can learn to vacuum, mop, do dishes, and even handle their laundry. By 15 or so, they should be capable of running the household if you get called away.The Next R: Respect - The 4th CommandmentTrain your children in the ways that God demandsIt makes family life more pleasant and prepares them to take their places in the adult world.Start right from their first words – Please and thank you, Do you mind? Would it be too much trouble?  Mealtime manners- No negative comments about the food, ask to be excused, clear your placeProper greetings –  Look up from the screen and ALWAYS recognize a person who has entered the room.  Do not interrupt for anything less than a medical emergency.  If they must, they have to excuse themselves.  Do not allow your children to speak disrespectfully to an adult.  Ever!  Including, actually especially, you!  Books Mentioned in the episode.Bringing Up Bebe by Pamela DruckermanFree Range Kids: How to Raise Safe, Self-Reliant Children by Lenore SkenazyFarmer Boy by Laura Ingalls WilderHomeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Some homeschool moms on social media are miserable.  Their kids are out of control, and it's often described as a typical day. Well, it wasn't our typical day – and it doesn't have to be yours either. Nothing can derail home education faster than out-of-control kids.Today, on The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast, Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss why this is happening and share the ways to fix it. Show Notes:Out-of-control kids are not unique to homeschooling families.  A trip to the park, the library, or a family restaurant will convince you that poorly behaved children are epidemic.  Many parents have convinced themselves that brattiness is just a normal stage of growing up, like cutting teeth -- it is not.  In countries all over the world, children are obedient, respectful, hardworking, and even sacrificial.Why have we lost control?  A few ideas:Americans are generally pretty well off.  In movies and TV, parents, especially dads, are often portrayed as buffoons. Childcare professionals, the so-called experts, give terrible advice.So, who SHOULD we follow for parenting advice?  Catholics should follow just three "pages" when it comes to raising their children:  Sacred ScriptureOur Holy TraditionsThe Magisterium or teaching authority of the church.The 4th Commandment is NOT a suggestion.  We are required to teach our children to honor and obey us in everything that is not sinful.The simplest path to well-behaved kids is to establish your authority right from the start.  As soon as they can understand you, probably about 1 ½ yearsRule #1: Clear, easy-to-understand rules.  BEFORE we leave our bedroom in the morning, we stow dirty clothes and make our beds.  When we get up from the table, we clear our places. We always say please and thank you.  Rule #2: Don't whine or beg your children to be good.  Express your expectations clearly and leave no room for doubt. If they don't listen, give a clear and immediate consequence.  Rule #3: Do not give delayed consequences."No TV for you tonight is ineffective."  The kid will never remember, nor will you.  You don't have to yell or scream – calm and confident works best.  You just have to persevere. Rule #4: Do not argue with your kids:  You will never win!   Expect obedience and walk away from an obstinate child.  Do not engage. Rule #5: A simple, sensible schedule and a check-off list for responsibilities.Set a regular time and post it on the fridge or a whiteboard:SchoolworkChoresInstrumental practice, or whateverToo strict? It's just the opposite.  There's ultimately less stress when children know what is expected of them.Tune in in two weeks for part 2 of our discipline series.  Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

In just a few decades, we’ve gone from floppy disks to artificial intelligence. Computers that once filled entire rooms now slip easily into our pockets and purses. The digital revolution is here—and homeschooling parents can’t ignore it. So how do we navigate this ever-changing landscape while staying true to our values and educational goals? That’s what Ginny and Mary Ellen are diving into today on the Stay-at-Home Schooling Mom podcast.Show Notes:Should your kids have a smartphone—or maybe just a “dumb” phone? Many homeschooling parents proudly declare, “My kids will never have cell phones!” when their children are toddlers. But as those kids grow, the reality of modern life sets in. Pay phones have disappeared, and at some point—music lessons, sports practices, part-time jobs—your child will need a way to reach you.That doesn’t mean you need to hand them a smartphone with full internet access.In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen discuss realistic, age-appropriate approaches to phones and tech. From basic flip phones to laptops and Chromebooks, they break down when kids actually need a device—and what kind. They offer practical, experience-based advice on:·      When kids truly need a phone (hint: driver’s licenses change everything)·      Why flip phones still work—and how they can be a great first step·      The educational benefits of controlled computer access·      Setting healthy tech boundaries in your home·      Social media safety and how to teach kids digital prudence·      Creating family-friendly tech rules—like public charging stations and shared screen time standardsThey also cover the importance of parental controls, device monitoring, and open conversations about online risks and responsibilities.Today’s digital world moves fast, but with some planning, clarity, and common sense, you can raise capable, tech-wise kids without letting screens take over your home.Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Do you have buddies who are toying with the idea of home education but have not yet made the leap? If you do, this is the show to pass on to them. Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss it all today, as they discuss Why NOW is the time to start homeschooling. Show Notes:Public schools are a disaster.NAEP Reading Assessment – ⅔ of students do not reach basic proficiency in ELA: ¾ in math.  Major universities have students taking remedial math courses. The social environment in too many public schools can be toxic. Pronoun police, kindergarten drag shows, gay pride parades, and girls forced to undress in front of bio boys!  Often, schools ignore specific requests from parents to exempt their children from these programs.  Even if your local school is not that bad, it will certainly not help pass on your Catholic faith to the children.Catholic schools are few and far between and often beyond the means of many families. You can tailor your curriculum.Is Junior a math whiz, even in primary years?  You can do 3rd grade with 5th grade math!  Does your daughter struggle to keep pace in her classroom?  You can move her down a level.  Or you can take longer to finish the school year.  Or you can get a special curriculum to meet her needs.  Virtually endless options for homeschoolingMaybe your in-laws are immigrants.  You can add their native language to your school day.Is your child a high-performing athlete or performer? You can schedule your school day around practices, competitions, rehearsals, and performances.Does your family like to travel?  Pack up the books, and away you go. It’s unnatural for kids to sit for long hours.It is not even a little unusual today.  Little Johnny doesn’t sit still in class and has trouble paying attention.  It must be Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and school officials will often recommend medicating him.  BTW, school districts get more money for “handicapped” kids. Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder should be required reading for every family with kids.  Based on a true story from a 19th-century NY state, little Almanzo is given a yoke for his 9th birthday, which he enthusiastically uses to train oxen.  Before breakfast, he and his siblings care for the livestock; they collect eggs and haul water and firewood.  Then, they have a long walk to their schoolhouse, where they are thrilled to sit down for a while.  After the long walk home, they again care for livestock before even looking for an after-school snack. Compare that with today’s school kids. They eat breakfast; most don’t even make their beds. They wait for a bus less than a block from their homes, sit on a bus, sit in a classroom and a lunchroom, sit on a bus, and come home—too often to play video games.Homeschooled kids can be active for much of the day.  They can do chores, take lots of breaks between classes, and rarely have to work after regular school hours.  They live a much more natural life. Let your kid be a kid! Brick-and-mortar schools will always be there.We now know that most homeschooling parents can do a great job. Homeschoolers routinely outperform kids in brick-and-mortar schools by almost any measure.But things can happen – family illness, financial problems, sometimes we just can’t continue.  Here’s the thing – the schools will still be there if you want to change your mind. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Mary Ellen and Ginny began homeschooling before the age of influencers. They say that was an enormous blessing because there is a lot of bad advice out there. The good news is that, using their combined over 50 years of homeschool experience, they have this to share: "The 5 Worst Pieces of Homeschooling Advice." Program Notes:Let's jump into some bad homeschooling advice.1. If it's hard, you are doing it wrong.  FALSEThe complete opposite is true. It shames the mom into thinking she is doing something wrong. You are educating young minds, and they are not inclined to hard work. Homeschooling well, running a household, doing sports, etc., is hard work.Tip: Recognizing it is hard and treating it like a full-time job will make your life easier.  2. Child-led learning will result in a complete education. FALSEProbably not – an attractive book is helpful but not enough.Math, grammar, writing skills, and foreign languages require effort and diligence.3. Grading your child's work will kill their love of learning.  FALSE·       Grades should never be a source of shame.They show if students are learning the material. Grades are a guide to adjust your methods or materials.4. Routine oppresses you and makes you less creative. FALSEChildren thrive when they know what to expect. Routine lets creativity thrive - mundane tasks are done by rote - leaving the brain free to create.  Many famous writers and authors have structured routines they follow with success.5. If you feel burned out or frustrated, you should switch curriculum. FALSE·      Being burnt out is not a good reason to switch your curriculum choices.·      Try other things before throwing the baby out with the bath water. ·      Frequent switching of curriculum creates gaps in skills and knowledge. There are many ways to cope with burnout - We did a whole episode on burnout – See the link below.Homeschooling ResourcesCoping with Burnout - Scroll down to Episode 10 on 1/25/23Seton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Homeschooling can take a lot of time.  Then, we have to cook meals, clean the house, and do laundry. Oh, and do the shopping and cart kids around to activities.  It all can seem daunting, but Ginny and Mary Ellen share their proven solution: Take some of those chores off our plates and put them smack on the kids' plates.   Program Notes:1. Start early - really early!  As soon as they can walk.  When you change a diaper, have the baby put it in the trash.  When toddlers change their clothes, teach them to put dirty clothes in the hamper.  Finishing up play time, have them stow their toys in the toy box or bin.As they get older, but still preschool age:Insist that they clear their cups and plates after meals.  They can put away clean silverware from the dishwasher. Teach them to tidy up. All of this is easier if you get an early start to the day.  2. Teach them all the necessary life skills  Begin to teach them to do every household chore.  Primary-grade kids can load a dishwasher while their older siblings rinse the dishes.  They can empty it while you or older kids put away stuff in high cabinets.  Other little guy choresDust furniture and run a vacuum.Empty room trash.  Teach them how to do their laundry. As they get olderTeach them how to clean kitchens and baths Teach them how to operate a lawn mower safely and shovel walks.Teach them to follow a recipe and prepare meals.  Make sure after-prep cleanup is included in the lesson.  Before they leave for college, your children should be ready to run a household.3. Assign specific tasks and make them regular responsibilities.  Some parents use a "chore chart" route.  The advantage is different children can learn various tasks over some time.  The disadvantage is you have to remember to keep the chart updated 4. Don't allow them to treat adults or siblings like unpaid help.  Do not allow your children to leave the table and dash off to play video games.  Or, for that matter, dash off to do schoolwork.  When dinner is finished, we all help clean up or get the little ones ready for bed. Perhaps taking out the trash.  5. Let them suffer the consequences of their actions or inactions.Teach the kids to do their laundry – if they forget - that's their problem.  In the real adult world, no one else comes to clean, cook, or do laundry for you.  Our kids need to be given responsibility.  Too many are going to college without knowing how to fry an egg.Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Does teaching Shakespeare, the Constitution, or Apologetics terrify you? The fear can arrive even before high school. When my grandkids took 5th-grade life science, my DIL did a way better job teaching it than I would have. She’s a nurse and understands that stuff!First potential solution:  Ask among your friends, neighbors, and folks at church. Maybe a mom who quit her nursing job when she had kids wants to make a few extra bucks teaching high school biology. It’s not difficult to find a Spanish speaker. It might be enough to correct pronunciation and explain different grammar rules. Would a local priest enjoy helping with Latin or Apologetics? Sometimes, the simplest solution is close to home.Another simple fix - Look onlineIf you don’t remember the Pythagorean theorem, you can find many clear explanations if you google it.  The internet can be dangerous, but it can also be helpful.  AudiobooksI did not advocate allowing kids to listen to their reading assignments, but Shakespeare’s plays were just that—plays intended to be performed on stage. Let the student read Merchant of Venice but then find a performance. It can make a big difference.Recorded online classesSometimes, they are produced by a textbook company – Saxon Math has very popular videos, and Teaching Textbooks is another popular online math program. At other times, they are made by the homeschool provider to match their course offerings.  Dual enrollmentMost community colleges accept students aged 16 and up.  Dual enrollment is an option for live classes. Prices are usually pretty reasonable. Important Note -If you enrolled in a home study school, check with one of their counselors to ensure they will accept your dual enrollment course for credit.Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Motivating our students can be an uphill battle. We want them to focus and work hard, but they are inclined by their nature and encouraged by society to be distracted. There is always something more interesting or fun to do.Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny open their tool kit of ways to encourage our children to work hard and develop good study skills without it being a constant battle. Hang on, this will be fun.Program NotesMotivation can be a wispy, ethereal thing arriving at inopportune times. I prefer to instill:1. Good habits and routines.2. This allows a child to do “the thing” without thinking about “getting down to it.” 3. That said, a little motivation can go a long way to making the process more pleasant. Five Ways to Motivate1. Gamify the lesson. This brilliant, simple technique tip from Laura Berquist:Challenge the child to “beat the clock” with math problems or spelling tests.Set a timer – see how many problems can be answered correctly before it rings.Use nickels as prizes; money is a great motivator.2. Socialize the work. Teens (and preteens) need to be with their peers. Try getting a study group, history or science, and learn the subject matter together.Add some snacks and free time to goof offThey will likely work harder at the subject than they would on their own. 3. Tie the lessons to the life goals. A concrete goal is a good motivator. If you want to travel and study abroad in college, study your Italian lessons.If you want to attend medical school, let’s focus on the sciences. If all else fails, the “you need to do this to get this” is a good life lesson.4. Work alongside them—at least for a while. If your student struggles with writing, try partner writing for the first paragraph. He writes a line, and you write the next line; it works with math problems, too.Sometimes, that blank page can seem so overwhelming that it is easier not to try. 5. Take a break. A little break in the action will refresh and motivate. Plan a four-day weekend and a field trip. A museum or planetarium day or a nature hike or camping trip.  Bottom Line: Focusing on developing good habits is the key to success as a student, but having some pleasant motivation makes for a happier student and a happier homeschool.Send us a FB message and tell us what you want to hear about.Homeschooling Resources• Seton Home Study School• Seton Testing Services

Feeling isolated on your homeschooling journey because you live “out in the boonies”? Worried your kids will miss out on friends—or that you’ll never meet another mom who “gets” it?Today Ginny and Mary Ellen tackle the unique challenges of homeschooling with little local support. Drawing on decades of experience, they share concrete ways to build community, keep kids socialized, and stay sane—no matter how many miles lie between you and the nearest neighbor.Challenges many rural (and not-so-rural) homeschoolers face“Will my kids have any friends?”Sparse population, long drives, fewer ready-made peer groupsKids everywhere spend more time indoors/on screens—urban life isn’t automatically betterLack of parental support or local mentorsFew (or no) other homeschoolers nearbyFear of feeling “weird” or being criticized for homeschoolingMom-level loneliness & burnoutNo extended family close at handTemptation to compare yourself to picture-perfect online familiesPractical ways to build real communityLeverage existing institutionsParish life – altar-serving, CCD, youth groups, Sunday coffee-and-bagels hospitalityLittle League, scouts, dance, music – shared interests trump age gapsPublic library – ask librarians to connect you with other homeschool patrons; book rooms for classesHost & invitePost-Mass brunches or crock-pot chili after Sunday-evening MassTeam pizza parties, park picnics, backyard “bring-your-own-blanket” daysFind (or create) online bridgesFacebook groups: “Catholic Homeschooling Moms,” local “[Your-Town] Homeschoolers,” curriculum-specific groupsProgram-specific networks (e.g., Seton’s My Seton family locator; Catholic Harbor for teens)Special-needs bonusMixed-age homeschool culture often embraces kids with disabilities—fosters compassion and confidenceMind your mannersShare positives; avoid trash-talking neighbors’ schooling choicesSimple, non-confrontational answers when asked, “Why do you homeschool?”Key takeawaysCommunity rarely arrives on your doorstep—but it can be built.Mixed-age friendships and adult role models are an asset, not a deficit.A little strategic hospitality (and a lot of prayer) goes a long way.Resources mentionedSeton Home Study School & Seton BooksCatholic Harbor (teen discussion platform for enrolled Seton students)Local parish ministries, scouts, sports leagues, public librariesThanks for listening!Send topic requests via Facebook —and don’t forget to leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Remember when you started homeschooling your oldest in kindergarten? People would ask, "What will you do when you have to teach trigonometry?" No worries, that was years away.Then high school arrives. But fear not—Mary Ellen and Ginny homeschooled through high school and produced great adults. Here’s how they did it and how you can, too. 8 Steps to High School Success1. Set an alarm and get an early start in the morning, the same time every day.  2. Those who fail to plan, plan to fail. Your student needs a lesson plan. 3. Have a daily appointment with high school students to ensure they stay on track.4. Figure out shortcuts or solutions to getting bogged down.  5. A Good High School rule of thumb is about an hour each school day for each course.6. Train your kids in practical life skills. This rule is essential! 7. They must be a good example, especially for younger siblings if so blessed.  8. Dress modestly and speak nicely to others and about others. People will judge homeschoolers and Catholics by what your kids do.   Send us a FB message and tell us what you want to hear about.Homeschooling Resources• Seton Home Study School• Seton Testing Services

Why do we homeschool?  Don't like the public schools in your district?  Can't afford the Catholic school?  Or there is no Catholic school?  Family togetherness?  Better academics?   All are good reasons, but today, Ginny and Mary Ellen discuss why most of us need to start and keep homeschooling our children. If this were Star Trek, we would call it The Prime Directive.  Show Notes:There are days when sainthood is not our first thought when we see our kids squabbling, being lazy, or sneaking a snack. How do we produce these saints in our homeschools?Use Catholic materials. Most homeschool materials seem wholesome, but wholesome is NOT the same as daily learning about the sacraments and the saints.  Fill your home with prayer.      Prayer doesn't have to be long, but it needs to be regular.  As soon as they can talk, teach children a morning offering.Say grace before meals, short night prayers to their Guardian Angels, and a simple Act of Contrition. Fill your home with sacramentals.  Statues in the garden and on the mantle; holy water fonts; crucifixes in the bedroomsGet the whole family involved in your parish church. Encourage your kids to join the choir, serve Mass, and even help clean up the pews after Mass. Make a big fuss over family sacraments—even in the extended family. Throw a party, invite people over.Make Pilgrimages. When you travel, visit a cathedral or some other holy site. Attend daily Mass when you can.  Daily rosary: Pray the stations during Lent.  Try to make a novena. Catholic homeschooling families have a unique opportunity to produce saints for America, the world, and eternity.  Do not let this chance go by!  Homeschooling is worth your best efforts, to the very limit of your energy. How great will be your reward in heaven.Thanks very much to Seton Home Study School for sponsoring our podcast. We would also like to thank our producer, Jason Loughry, our social media director, Beth Egan, and Jim Shanley, who do all our show notes and generally keep us on task.  Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services

Isn’t it funny that one meal seems to take up 9/10ths of our brain daily? Dinner or meal planning is one of our most requested topics. We’ll answer these questions and more:·      What are easy meals? ·      How do I plan for meals?·      How much should the children be helping?  Dinner is the big kahuna in terms of time, expense, and general stress but this will help:8 Rules to Cook By to organize and streamline for healthy economical meals. Meal Prep Plan: Having a set plan is a lifesaver. Mary Ellen prepares once-a-month, Ginny once a week. You decide which is best for your style.Know what you are going to make by 10:00 a.m. so you can work on it in free moments during the day. Even better, if you know before school starts, make a slow cooker meal!Double batch - When you make a meal, double the recipe and freeze one meal.Make a Sunday sauce, turkey, or roast, and use it all week in different meals. Chicken can be enchiladas or quesadillas, beef can be shepherd's pie, sauce can be pizza or meatball heroes. A ham on Sunday becomes a ham, potato, and cheese casserole on Tuesday, and pea soup on Thursday.Go to the library or online and look up some simple recipes—one-pan recipes, 30-minute recipes, and 5-ingredient recipes.Allow for the occasional pizza/take-out night.Put older children in charge of one meal a month. Teach them a specialty. Even younger kids can put together a salad or cut up veggies and dip. A big bonus is that kids are more likely to eat healthy foods if they or a sibling prepares them.Spend one day a month prepping meals. I do this after one of my daughters has a baby. Stock the fridge with frozen homemade meals. It's even better if you can make this a family project. Please share how you get dinner on the table and your favorite recipe on our Facebook page.If you enjoy this podcast, please like and subscribe. 5-star ratings and reviews help us reach more people. Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Special Services

Online conversations about how challenging homeschooling can include some version of, "They just don't listen to me," "They dawdle all day" or "They argue constantly." If this sounds too familiar and is not what you expected from your homeschoolers, join Ginny and Mary Ellen in a crash-course in teaching good attitudes and better behavior. These lessons will last a lifetime. Show Notes:Often, homeschooling succeeds or fails based on student behavior.  This can be the reason parents hesitate to homeschool or even stop homeschooling. Discipline can be tough to enforce, but it is not complicated to understand. Here are five simple ideas to get you started. Step 1 – Start Early+ Around 18 months:  Some parents use sign language to communicate with babies this age.+ As soon a baby understands you: Start instilling good habits; Put your diaper in the trash, please.  Let's put your toys in the toy box. + 3 years-old: instill obedience as a virtue. Constantly repeat, "You have to obey Mommy right away."  Reassure them, "You will never get in trouble if you obey Mommy."  Step 2 – Insist on Courtesy and Refinement at all times – from the start+ Always use the magic words:  “please”, “thank you”, “if it's not too much trouble.”+ NEVER give something to a child who has not said, "Please." + Always recognize someone who has entered a room. Step 3 – Have a Clear, Consistent Daily Schedule+ Children do best when they know what is expected.+ Same wake-up time and morning routine: brush teeth, get dressed, make bed, put PJs under the pillow, eat breakfast.+ Schoolwork starts at the same early time every day. Step 4 – Take Every Opportunity to instill virtue in your childrenUse the words: “I expect you to be kind, generous, polite, and to put others first.”Be honest: “It is a sin to show your temper, hit your brother, or throw things at people.”Praise generously: “You cleaned the kitchen while I was shopping?  That's terrific!” Step 5 – Deal with Problems before they become big concerns.Don't give out delayed or extended consequences because you'll forget!Let consequences flow naturally from offenses. "No TV tonight, Billy. Remember you gave me a hard time getting started this morning.  We have to have earlier bedtimes for a while until you get a handle on your mornings."  Summary: If you put in your time when the kids are little, things will go much easier as they get older. Not only for you – but for them.  Self-discipline, courtesy, setting schedules, and virtue will help them in college, in professional life, and as they raise their own families Send us a message and tell us what you want to hear about.Homeschooling ResourcesSeton Home Study SchoolSeton Testing Services