The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast

So often, homeschool days can devolve into tantrums, tears, and recriminations, and that’s just mom.  Meltdowns and bad days happen, and we have to make our peace with that, but there are ways that you can set yourself up for success. To help you, Mary Ellen and Ginny introduce seven rules to set you up, reduce the bad days, and help your children enjoy their studies more.  Show Notes: A big part of having a successful homeschool is having an environment that encourages learning. This does not mean a Pinterest-worthy school room; what you need is a well-lit, comfortable place to sit, a place to write, and a place to read. Bookcases, a spot for nature finds, some arts and crafts materials, and a place to play outside would help. Mary Ellen and Ginny have put it all together in these seven rules: 1. Make sure you (mom) do the prep work. Make the copies, set out the pencils, get the books together, and set up the clipboards. Even if you have to start later, it is better to be prepared. 2. Cultivate a rhythm to your days. Days are smoother when everyone knows what is expected of them and when. 3. Head off the frustration. If you see the child at the end of their rope, it is time to take a break. It is easier to prevent behavior than responding to it - because that can take all day. 4. Plan a few fun, out-of-the-house days/afternoons a semester. Get some fresh air and explore some new places. Visit something historic or uplifting. Schedule a regular park day with friends.   5. Take care of your physical self. Sleep, eat well, shower, and take a few minutes every day to do something that helps you feel good. Read a book, putter around the house, listen to a podcast, or do some gardening.  6. It’s important to remember why you are homeschooling. The academics are very important but you are also building a culture. You are creating an atmosphere where children learn to learn, be independent, and love God and their families.  7. Keep Calm and Carry On. You can work yourself into a nervous breakdown and still not cover everything. You want to raise a student who, as they carry on beyond your homeschool, can fill in the inevitable gaps independently.  Send us a message and tell us what you want to hear about. Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Angela’s child is an auditory learner, and she wanted some tips to help him.  Her request made us think about how most students have a dominant learning style. And how we can fashion our homeschooling to help them succeed.  Today, we learn about the four major learning styles, how to work with our kids’ styles, and the importance of preparing them not to grow too dependent on their dominant style. Okay, let’s define four major learning styles. Visual Learners learn more through images, diagrams, charts, graphs, and pictures. These students doodle, annotate, and make visual notes to retain information better. Consumable workbooks are better for underlining, margin arrows, and highlighting. Verbal Learners (sometimes called Reading and Writing) absorb information best when they use words, whether reading or writing them. Written words are more helpful than images or spoken words. They’re best at writing essays, articles, and books. Auditory Learners absorb information better when lessons are spoken and might not need notes. They ask questions often or repeat what they have just heard aloud to remember it better. They benefit from reading out loud but can get distracted by the noise around them.  Kinesthetic Learners prefer to learn through movement, by doing. They can’t sit still for long and need more frequent breaks than others. They benefit from activities that reinforce the information just covered in class.  Why We Need a Multisensory Approach Your child’s future professor or boss will not care what type of learner they are. Your kid will not be assigned an essay or a work report and asked to substitute an oral presentation or a diorama. Get them ready: use as many sensory approaches as possible for the best learning. And always remember that repetition is the key to learning. Thanks to Angela for sending us this idea! Send us a message and tell us what you want to hear about. Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services  

Kimberly asked Ginny and Mary Ellen how to juggle homeschooling when you have a huge family. You'll love every minute of their humorous reflections and insightful advice.  You may have a married kid or two with grandchildren dropping by while you're planning weddings and still homeschooling high school, middle school, and elementary school.  Oh, and you're trying to keep the house clean enough so the Board of Health doesn't put your kids into foster care.  Don't miss it. Show Notes: Let's talk about how moms of big homeschooling families can stay sane. 1. Have a School Schedule Start schooling at the same time every day.  An earlier start is better.  If you have children too young to work independently, start with them.   2. For the Young Ones - Do the Essential Subjects with Them But EVERY child has something they can do on their own: copy spelling words, finish a math page, etc.  Be specific:  "Those two pages have to be finished before you eat lunch, so don't dawdle." 3. For Students Who Mostly Work by Themselves - Have a Daily Appointment Make sure they are staying on track.  Set goals.  "This chapter has to be read before tomorrow so you can start on the assignment.  If you can't finish it during the school day, work on it after supper." 4. Don't worry about unessential subjects Music in our family was piano lessons, voice lessons, or dance lessons.  Anything I did not have to do!  They were not cheated; two of my kids pursued fine arts after high school.  Art lessons mainly were appreciation – Seton books and the Art Institute of Chicago.  You can tour famous museums online, too.  PE was town sports – that was enough. 5. Skip unnecessary busy work If Junior is a good speller, give him a pretest on Monday.  If he only gets one or two words wrong, have him write them ten times each and give him another oral test on Tuesday. If there are twenty English problems identifying proper and common nouns, assign the first ten.  If Janie gets them all right, move on to the next subject.  Do the same thing with math fact problems.  Repetition is the key to learning, but if you have it, you have it! 6. Schedule tidy time. Having polished floors and sparkling windows can be challenging, but a tidy house makes all the difference to your peace of mind.  Assign chores that include washing dishes and cleaning counters.  Jackets are hung up, and laundry is folded and put away.  Half an hour after school and another after dinner often does the trick if everyone chips in. 7. EVERYONE Chips In If kids have moved back after college or are attending college while living at home, that's great.  But a free ride does not include free maid service. They must take care of their laundry and clean up after themselves; they have to contribute their labor to the household:  mowing the lawn, mopping floors, cooking dinner, whatever.   You Won't Regret It:  Young adults living at home should not be a burden – they should be just the opposite – fully contributing household members. Thanks to Kimberly for sending us this idea. Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

We have discussed institutions of higher learning in another podcast, but today, we will discuss graduating high school students who may have had enough of school—at least for now. A son is not sure if he wants to go to college. A daughter thinks she wants to be a dentist, a hairdresser, or a chef but is unsure what these entail. Today, let's talk about how to help those kids. Show Notes: Some kids are great students and have plans and professional aspirations.  BUT College is now the default for many families, but should they reconsider? Cost is prohibitive. Campus life is less than wholesome. Is Junior or Sis ready to leave home? Do your grad’s aspirations require college? What should they do?  Some possibilities Get a Job - You cannot go wrong with taking a year off to think about your future and earn some money. ·      Build "employment skills." Show up on time, Learn to take orders from a superior, navigate a workplace, and stay off your phone. ·      Test Drive a job in a field your student is considering: Front desk at a hair salon or dental office, carpenter's helper, restaurant host.  ·      Learn Money Skills - Build a bank account, buy and insure a car. Go into the Military Great benefits - Job training and after discharge: Free education - Low-cost mortgages Learn teamwork - Hard work - Physical fitness - Discipline Travel on the government's dime. Take Time to Build a Spiritual Life Frequent Mass and Confession - Get regular spiritual direction - Go on retreat Volunteer in your Community Church: altar server, lector, choir, teach CCD – Scouts – Help an elderly neighbor  Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

This time of year, many homeschooling parents are dealing with high school seniors who are wondering what they will do with their lives. Join Ginny and Mary Ellen in a lively conversation about post-high school educational options—their pros and cons—for young Catholic adults. Your hosts' insight and practical advice are always flavored with their inimitable humor.  Show Notes: Many homeschooling parents have high school seniors wondering what they will do with their lives. Join Ginny and Mary Ellen in a lively conversation about a wide variety of post-high school educational options—their pros and cons—for young Catholic adults. Neumann Guide schools –Colleges recognized for their commitment to a faithful Catholic education. Pros - Easy access to the sacraments and other spiritual benefits. Many have expanded their academic offerings. They can be counted on NOT to teach your kids anything opposed to the faith - Wholesome living conditions - no coed dorms. Cons - Private schools – not taxpayer-funded $$$, Distance from home and family, they might not offer certain fields of study. Catholic Trade Schools –An early but growing trend in the Catholic sphere. Pros - Many of the same benefits as Neumann Guide Schools – wholesome environment – opportunities for spiritual growth. Less costly and takes less time (associate degree), Kids with a trade will have few problems finding a job. Cons - It's a new concept with no proven track record. There is uncertainty about which credits will transfer if kids pursue higher education. Community Colleges Pros - Kids can live at home – a BIG plus. While not spiritually uplifting, the lack of residential campus life can be an improvement over four-year schools.  Many students go to class and work, which is WAY more cost-effective. Credits will typically transfer to a four-year state school. Cons - Any spiritual growth must come from local churches and families. State Colleges and Universities Pros - It is much cheaper than private institutions, especially for in-state students, and offers a wide range of majors.  Credits transfer; many have well-regarded schools for particular subjects, such as fine arts, bioengineering, and premed. Often, they are connected to local institutions for internships, etc. Cons - Campus life is often at odds with Catholic teaching, which requires students to be firmly grounded in the faith BEFORE enrolling. Look for Opus Dei study centers and Neumann Centers. Most professors are left-wing and prejudiced against traditional values, although that can vary among departments. Private Colleges and Universities Pros - Many have strong name recognition and greatly benefit graduates seeking jobs. Strong alumni networks for job opportunities. Prestigious programs that make it easier to enter into prestigious graduate programs. Cons - $$$$ Do not allow students to become so obsessed with going to a big-name school that they forget they will graduate with possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt. Even smaller, less-known colleges are expensive, and they may not accept some transfer credits. Campus life is not always wholesome. Look for Opus Dei study centers or Neumann Centers. Homeschooling Resources Newman Guide Recognized Colleges Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Every homeschool parent fervently hopes to raise a child who loves to read. Once they find themselves loving a book, a series, or a subject and choose to immerse themselves in the pages of a book, we have won half the battle.  So, how do we encourage children to read? How do we make it so much a part of life that there is no option but to be a reader? Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny explain ten ways to raise a reader. Show Notes: 1. Be a reader. Let your child see you enjoying a book, magazine, or newspaper.  2. Fill your house with books. Go to the library, pick up books at sales, thrift stores, and garage sales, trade books with other moms, and put books on the Christmas lists. 3. Read aloud every day. Read aloud to the newborn, the toddler, and the primary and secondary ages. It cannot be overestimated how important it is, even for toddlers.  4. It must be a live experience; audiobooks are not the same. 5. It’s okay to be interrupted. Answer the questions, make funny noises, notice the pictures, and point to things. 6. Give emerging readers time; don’t rush it. Often, a child who has been struggling suddenly gets it. Be patient.  7. Reading at this age should inspire imagination, encourage curiosity, and be fun. 8. If you suspect a learning issue such as dyslexia, don’t panic. There are programs available to help you*. Many families deal with these issues; don’t let them quench a child’s desire to read. 9. When a child is reading independently, check in often and provide a wide selection. Don’t neglect comics and series of books. Create a culture of reading. 10. Don’t forget non-fiction! A book about video games is still a book. If your child loves dinosaurs, sharks, or the rainforest, get some books about it. Listener question:  This is an interesting one from Michael Lewis I was wondering if you would consider making the title a bit more generic to account for the fact that plenty of dads out there are considering dropping the 9 to 5 and full-time homeschooling.  The name of the podcast reflects our experience as homeschooling mothers, but we support and admire all the dads who have taken on the majority of homeschooling responsibility. Homeschooling is a whole family proposition, and whichever parent takes on the bulk of the teaching, leaving the other to take on the bulk of earning a living, knows that both are living lives of heroic virtue.   Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Special Services Seton Testing Services

While knowing the Four Rs (reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmatic, and religion) is essential for your child to succeed in life, it is also important to learn certain life skills to function well in the world. Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss ordinary things your children need to know, like how to manage money, how to really clean a room, and how to plan and cook healthy meals.  Show Notes: Did you know that an entire Instagram account is dedicated to the hapless texts teens send their parents while trying to navigate life?  Questions such as:  What aisle is the pasta water in?  What’s my middle name?  Can I put the big silver pot in the microwave?   While knowing the Four Rs (reading, ‘riting, ‘rithmatic, and religion) is essential for your child to succeed in life, it is also important to learn certain life skills to function well in the world. So often, we hear of young people who cannot: Shop for groceries Do a load of laundry  Iron a shirt Sew on a button The result is that they cannot cope efficiently in life.  You can’t send your children into the world without teaching them how to care for themselves, their homes, and the people around them. Part of the problem is that an entire generation of people out there whose mommies did everything for them, and it shows. Let’s run through a few basic life skills your children need to know how to do. Managing money.  ·       Children should be taught the value of money. ·       How to keep track of it from a fairly young age.  ·       They must learn to save, give to charity, and spend wisely.  ·       Grasp the long view of money. Every stop at Chik-Fil-A is that much less in savings.  ·       Teach them to write a budget and stick to it. 2.     How to make small talk.  ·       Conversation is a life skill.  ·       You will be called upon to get to know strangers in business and social situations.  ·       You must make eye contact and speak in sentences. ·       Learn to ask polite questions, smile, and be courteous. 3.     How to really clean a room. ·       Start at the top and work your way down, dusting, vacuuming, and polishing. ·       Putting things away, fluffing pillows, and vacuuming curtains. ·       Washing windows, baseboards, and moldings. 4.     How to iron a shirt. ·       This skill will save money. ·       Your clothes will last longer. ·       And it’s a dying art and will impress friends, family, and prospective spouse. 5.     Taking care of a car. ·       Pumping gas, checking the oil, and changing a tire. ·       Jumping the battery, cooling an overheating radiator, and general maintenance. ·       Preparing for an emergency.  6.     How to read a map. How to plan and cook some healthy meals as well as how to grocery shop. Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services   Notes from Social Media Anastasia wants to know, "How do you challenge a high ability/gifted child? What’s the best way to do that without stifling their natural wonder and love of learning?" Ginny offered, "Anastasia, they still have to learn to apply themselves to academic tasks to build future study skills. But what keeps them engaged, challenged, and stimulates their wonder and love of learning is enrichment, which includes class trips and special programs of particular interest to them."

A recent social media meme asked, "Am I teaching my children for Heaven, or am I teaching them for Harvard?" Ginny and Mary Ellen address these important questions on the minds of many parents in today's podcast, thoughtfully defining the meaning of those destinations and guiding you to find your family's unique homeschooling solution.  Program Notes: First, no parent wants their child to go to hell, and we all recognize that only a handful go to that particular university or any Ivy.  So, what are we talking about?   Let's define some terms. Heaven means that we give our children a thoroughly Catholic education so they: Will stay close to the faith. Live virtuous lives. Go to Heaven.  Harvard means raising leaders for success in their: Community Country World Ability to get others to Heaven. Not every child is a good candidate for the Ivy League, but Every child can change the world—our job is to prepare them for that. We must: Form our children in the faith. Encourage pious practices. Teach them about the saints. Give them a rigorous academic education.   Practical Suggestions Great literature must be read to train getting past the 10-second social media blurbs.    They need the thoughts of great men and women to be great citizens themselves.   They need to learn how to think, form opinions, and process information, all through the lens of the Catholic faith.  A true understanding of science is what produces pro-life adults.   They have to aim for as high a place as their abilities can take them.  Can't Afford College?  Community college is a thrifty alternative.   Or join the military and let the GI bill pay for college.   Or take a year or two off to work and save. Very Important Life Lessons Let them play sports to develop discipline. If they like a particular sport, encourage them to work hard, stretch themselves, and strive for excellence. Sadly, too many young people have no idea how to present themselves in public.   Teach them gracious manners, self-sacrifice, and service to others. They will stand out. Attractive personalities do just that – they attract others. Hopefully, some of your children, the talented and lucky ones, will reach positions of power and authority. Our country and our world need them. But every one of them can: Serve on the parish council, your town board to keep the porn shop from opening in town, or your library board to keep offensive books out of the children's section. Organize the bus trip to the March for Life. Raise money for pregnancy centers. Start a travel baseball, softball, or soccer league in your town to keep kids busy with wholesome pursuits. Summary - Moral adults can improve the world in thousands of ways.  So don't teach for Heaven or Harvard – teach for both!   Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services   Notes from Social Media April asks if we have some encouragement for a family dealing with complex medical issues. "My question is: what would be the one thing you would share with a family to encourage them when they have a season where they are exponentially challenged, and they are spending more time praying than "educating"? I know what we do, but I'd love to hear what your combined experience offers your listeners. Thank you for sharing your talents." Mary Ellen replied, "April, when you're a medically complex family, you are basically required to be flexible. Plans, deadlines, and intentions all take a backseat to health. With this in mind, it also presents a wonderful opportunity to teach fortitude, discernment, gratitude, patience, etc. I hope that helps. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers."

Providing children with a Catholic education was considered so important to Irish, Italian, and Polish immigrants that parishes built the school BEFORE the church.  A lot has changed but Mary Ellen and Ginny remind us that one thing that has NOT changed is the serious obligation of Catholic parents to give their children an authentic Catholic education. Today they discuss how homeschoolers can best fulfill that obligation.   Show Notes: Years ago, providing children with a Catholic education was considered so crucial that parishes built the school BEFORE the church.  What changed?  Well, lots, but today, Mary Ellen and Ginny remind us that the one thing that has NOT changed is the serious obligation of Catholic parents to give their children an authentic Catholic education. They also discuss how homeschoolers can be best equipped to fulfill that obligation. Parents are required to give their children a thoroughly Catholic education – period. So, what does this mean for homeschoolers? Catholic materials have to be the default choice.  ·       There are a few legitimate reasons to use non-Catholic materials – a special needs child, could be one of them. ·       Money can be a factor if you truly cannot afford a Catholic option. 2.     Content is a critical issue in reading, science, and history. ·       Books should teach the Catholic Faith and give examples of the saints.   ·       Christian books can be downright anti-Catholic.  3.     It is imperative to teach the extraordinary accomplishments of faithful Catholics. Holy Mother Church is often portrayed as anti-science.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  Some sources are quick to bring up Galileo but neglect to mention that: ·       It was Catholic cleric Nicolas Copernicus who first identified the sun as the center of our solar system.  ·       Augustinian Monk Gregor Mendel founded the field of genetics.   ·       Louis Pasteur, founder of bacteriology, was a devout Catholic who prayed the rosary daily.   ·       Seismology is often called the Jesuit science because of the order’s contributions.   That’s why you need a Catholic program!   4.     Your parish CCD program, even the best-intentioned of them, is Catholic-lite.   They cannot and do not replace daily religious instruction in your home.  Thirty hours a year just does not cut it.  And it includes a minimal Catholic history of accomplishment.  A Great Catholic program we love: Seton Home Study School Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services Society of Catholic Scientists Notes from Social Media Beth from Illinois wants to know: How much time is typically spent on kindergarten? My second child is on the way, and I am overwhelmed by the idea of managing a school schedule with a new baby at home.  Best advice: Don’t sweat it.  Maybe an hour to two during the day can be split up. Be flexible using baby’s naptime or downtime.  Now, as they start to crawl and walk, things get challenging. You’ll find more about that in our episode, The Secret of Teaching with a Toddler in the House.

Are you considering homeschooling but are not quite there yet? You may have bought a few books, read a few blogs, and followed a few Instagram accounts. It can be really hard to say, "We are doing this!" and jump in. Well, fear not: Ginny and Mary Ellen have helped thousands with their clear and simple practical advice, along with a generous helping of good humor. Listen now at the link below!  https://www.setonhome.org/podcast/   Program Notes: How Do I Get Started? Are you considering homeschooling but are not quite there yet? Have you dipped your toes in? You may have bought a few books or read a few blogs. It can be really hard to jump in and say “We are doing this!” Ginny and Mary Ellen have a few things to consider that might help you take the plunge.    So, if you think you should homeschool, we agree and have a few tips to help you get started. Check out the laws in your state. ·       HSLDA is an excellent resource for state rules. See the link in Resources below. ·       Discreetly check out the compliance your local school district requires.  ·       Look for local Facebook groups. ·       Veteran moms are an excellent resource for the ins and outs of reporting. ·       If you withdraw from public school, sending a letter stating you will homeschool is standard. ·       Provide the minimum of information. Too much information can cause trouble.   2.     Start with a boxed curriculum.  ·       In the first year, you might be more relaxed if you are enrolled somewhere.  ·       It's straightforward; you know all the bases are covered.  ·       As you gain experience, you can pick and choose or write your own. 3.     Get organized.   ·       Start getting your house in order.  ·       Be ruthless and get rid of everything not serving your family.  ·       Set up a system to easily plan your meals, tidy up, and grocery shop.  ·       Record a phone message:  "Schools in session. I'll return your call after dismissal." 4.     Get routines started.  ·       Envision your daily routine and rhythm.  ·       Establish play times, chore times, nap times, and bedtimes. ·       Schedules will make your first year of homeschooling much less stressful.  5.     Make a Plan.  ·       Decide on your start date, vacation days, and end date.  ·       Plan a few field trips and art projects.  ·       Get a teacher planner for each child. 6.     Time outside your home.  ·       Use good judgment in choosing activities. ·       Your first year is not the time to jump into outside activities. ·       Those activities will be available in the second semester or even next year. ·       Time may be your greatest asset, be a miser spending it in your first year.   Homeschooling Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)   Notes from Social Media Maria and Carrie posted on the podcast's FB page asking for tips on how to teach spelling.   There are two keys to successful learning:  repetition and multi-sensory.  Kids who struggle with spelling should write them 5 or 10 times each.  They see them, and the words go into muscle memory when they write them.  Even better, say them and spell them as they write them.  Book b-o-o-k Book.  Make it fun by letting them write words on a whiteboard or the patio floor using sidewalk chalk.  Before they test, have students march up and down, repeating the words and their spellings several times.

Who says Catholic homeschool students can't enjoy school spirit and connection with their fellow students? Not Seton Home Study School! Seton has an online forum, Catholic Harbor, to provide just those things and more. Listen to learn more! --- Draper Warren Bio: Draper Warren is the Director of Admissions at Seton and the Admin of Catholic Harbor. He is a Seton alumnus and graduate of Christendom College. He has worked at Seton for over 25 years, earned an MBA, and is currently completing a doctoral degree in educational leadership at Marymount University. --- Show Links: https://www.setonhome.org/student-life/catholic-harbor/ https://www.catholicharbor.com

Venerable Fulton Sheen said. "There are not one hundred people in the United States who hate The Catholic Church, but there are millions who hate what they wrongly perceive the Catholic Church to be."  These words could easily be applied to homeschooling. Too many people react negatively when they hear of a family homeschooling, but these impressions could not be further from the truth. Today, Mary Ellen and Ginny take on the naysayers' challenge with Debunking Seven Myths and Misconceptions About Homeschooling, arming you with the real story.   #1 Parents are not qualified to teach their children.  This is ridiculous, considering a child learns more in the first five years of life than in the remainder of their lives, and that's entirely due to the parents. You can find all kinds of resources to help you teach. #2. Homeschooled children don't get to socialize.  This is the most pervasive myth about homeschooling. People always bring it up, and it is just not true. Numerous studies prove that homeschooled kids excel in socialization.  Bottom Line - School socialization is virtually useless: This generation is the unhappiest we have witnessed in modern history. Kids—the vast majority of whom are in school—are miserable, so socialization is not what it is cracked up to be. 3. It's harder for homeschooled students to get into college.  This may have been true at some point, but now colleges are actively recruiting homeschooled students.  4. Only parents with advanced degrees can homeschool.  That is not true. Any parent can homeschool. If you are unfamiliar with the material, there are teacher's editions, videos (YouTube, Khan Academy), and some home study schools have counselors. Online classes are also an option. As long as you are directing your child's education, you are homeschooling. You don't have to be the one teaching every class. Also, it is fun to learn alongside your kids. Public school teachers all have degrees, many advanced, and that system is a disaster. Parents would almost have to try to do worse. 5. Homeschoolers need to experience diversity.  This is a funny criticism since public school classrooms are strictly geographical in their composition. You are sitting in a room with people who make up your neighborhood. How diverse is that? However, homeschooled students get out into the world, travel, feed their curiosity, volunteer, and have the opportunity to explore the world as they learn about it. 6. You can't work outside of the home and homeschool.  Again, not true. You can homeschool at any time of day or any schedule that works for you. You have to be organized and sometimes let something go (your floor may be sticky for a while), but it can be done and done well. 7. Homeschoolers can't participate in extracurricular activities.  Homeschool kids play on soccer teams, go to dance classes, and participate in the same club leagues and other organizations that other kids do. Because their time is better managed, they also have an opportunity to follow up on their interests. They have time to read for pleasure, craft, tinker with Legos, or build forts in the yard.   There will always be naysayers when you choose a path different from the norm. When you prayerfully decide that homeschooling is right for your family, do not let the Debbie Downers of the world rob you of the peace that comes with knowing that your child is growing and learning in a loving, safe environment from parents who want the best from them.   Resources: Homeschooling and the Question of Socialization Revisited, Richard G. Medlin, Stetson Univ. Richard G. Medlin, Stetson University (A wealth of information here, See: Publications)   Homeschooling Information: Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Do you have a child who is hesitant to try new things? Who would rather sit and stare at a book because they are convinced, they can’t do it, even before they try?  Today, Ginny and Mary Ellen discuss how confidence can be encouraged in even the most hesitant children and chart a map of seven key lessons for building self-confidence in your homeschooled child. The Hesitant Child Do you have a child who is hesitant to try new things? Who would rather sit and stare at a book because they are convinced they can’t do it before they even try? Self-confidence is an essential life skill, enabling a child to face challenges, cope with frustration, and try their best at new things.  Seven Key Lessons to Build Self-Confidence in your homeschooled child. 1. First and foremost, self-confidence is knowing you are a child of God. He has given you gifts and talents and expects you to use them. When you know that, it becomes easier to believe in yourself. One of the best results of self-confidence is the ability to do the right thing even when it is unpopular, which is part of life in the world today.  2. Model confidence for your children. Tell them that sometimes new things make you nervous or stressed out, but they mostly turn out fine.  We were not created to worry but to try to discern God’s will for us. Sometimes, that means doing something new or out of our comfort zone.   3. Praise sincerely. That doesn’t mean constantly. Constant praise diminishes the effect and kids know insincerity when they hear it. It’s a “you get a sticker for everything” culture. Praise when something is truly praiseworthy and make it meaningful.  It doesn’t have to be direct praise.  You tell Daddy that little Johnny took over for you to make dinner when you were called away.  He was a lifesaver.  You don’t have to say to him directly.  Everyone will know that he saved the day. And he’ll know it, too.   4. Help them set realistic goals. Some kids will set the bar for themselves too high for their developmental age. 5. Guide them in problem-solving, ask why something isn’t working, help troubleshoot the problem, and let them work it through. 6. Let them fail. It’s the best teacher.  Let them see that sometimes, even our best efforts are not enough to reach a goal, and that’s okay. 7. Give them responsibilities and their completion opportunities to earn privileges. Children gain confidence in their abilities when they accomplish something – not when they get an unearned trophy. Start with household responsibilities such as yard work or babysitting. As they gain skills, they can market them.  Epilogue: Two of my grandkids were hired to help at a large family gathering – mainly to entertain little ones.  They did that but also helped with party cleanup.  Got glowing reviews and tipped!) Homeschooling Information Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

To Learn Online or Not – That's the Question Online homeschooling programs offer a tempting solution for busy parents. However, it's essential to consider both the benefits and drawbacks.  Today, Ginny and Mary Ellen cut through the noise to provide practical, no-nonsense advice, wrapped, as always, in their unique humor and warmth.   Little kids – preschool and primary grades.   Overall, there are advantages to Online Learning, but sitting a child this age in front of a screen gets a big thumbs down, with just a few exceptions. Kids this age need to be:   Jumping around. Sniffing flowers. Chasing bunnies, real or imagined. These activities develop imagination, observational, and communication skills. It's their chance to tell you what they have seen, heard, touched, and smelled.  Stuck in the house? - Give them blocks, Legos, or a whiteboard with markers—not a screen.  A word or two on Handwriting: Have you seen children's Handwriting recently? Does it look like chicken scratch? Most young children can't read cursive, and virtually none can write it.  They will whine but need to sit and practice penmanship for hours.  Writing, cutting, and pasting builds small motor skills and reinforces learning.     Is online education ever appropriate in younger years? Two opportunities stand out: Online Language Lessons Being bilingual does great things for children's brains. Online language lessons are a solution. Enrichment Programs For instance, if students study bees in science and are very interested, an online enrichment lesson or video could be beneficial. But an even better solution might be a trip to the library.   Online for Middle and High Schoolers?   The PROS: Online Can be Appropriate for Older Kids - Upper-level and even middle-school math, science, and foreign languages. Even before high school, moms may need help teaching grammar and diagramming. Teaching Textbooks has been a lifesaver in many homeschools. Online classes allow kids to hear lectures from experts or watch videos that expand on a textbook lesson. As students mature, it will be easier to put screens in perspective. The CONS: Isolation - It is psychologically unhealthy to be isolated.  This generation has more diagnosed mental illness and higher suicide rates than any before it. Human beings are social creatures - we need social interaction. We don't get that in front of a screen. Tongue-tied - We've all passed groups of teens who stand near one another but never look up from their phones. They don't know how to communicate. Teens struggle to get jobs because they lack social confidence.  None of this gets better if they stare at a screen all day.   Homeschooling Information Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Many of us started homeschooling to pass on our Catholic faith and get our kids to heaven. But in the back of our minds, when we can think past laundry and dishes and driving kids to activities, we hope they can exert a positive influence here on earth.  Our guest offers a career track to fulfill that influence in a Christ-centered manner. Dr. Maura Wenzel’s nursing career satisfies her desire to serve, love others as Christ loves, and see Christ in every patient. Her choice may be a perfect fit for your Catholic homeschooler.   Program notes: Now more than ever, why do we need nurses with a solid moral compass?  Dr. Wenzel is a Clinical Associate professor at the Catholic University of America’s Conway School of Nursing. As a former U.S. Navy nurse, Dr. Wenzel has experience in many fields of nursing, including surgical, emergency, and perioperative nursing. Dr. Wenzel is passionate about nursing, nursing education, and weaving the Catholic Faith throughout her courses.  She and her husband and three young children live in southern Maryland. An inside look at this gratifying profession.  ● What attracted her to nursing? ● What are the emotional or spiritual traits that make the best nurses?   ● How did homeschooling help you develop them? ● What high school courses are most important?  ● What is the difference between R.N., BSN, and APRN?   Why is Catholic University so attractive to Catholic homeschoolers? Catholic—The beautiful campus, in a very safe part of Washington, D.C., is steeped in Catholic culture. Surrounded by the U.S. Conference of Bishops, next to John Paul II Shrine, there is an abundance of priests and nuns on campus and many opportunities for daily mass. Professional – An education from an excellent faculty, teaching in a new state-of-the-art nursing building with a floor replicating a hospital wing. Receive a nursing education that clearly emphasizes the role of ethics, values, and spirituality in health care in a city with many partnering hospitals for clinical experiences.   “Nursing is an excellent profession for those who wish to serve but in a much more spiritual way. It is an opportunity to love others as Christ loves and to see Christ in every patient.  As a young nurse, I found my deep faith in our Lord to be the framework through which I was able to process many challenging patients, situations, and long hours.  Still, in a much more substantial way, it helped me to persevere through new and challenging medical ethical dilemmas. The world has shifted since my early nursing days, and the challenges we Catholic nurses face now are even more difficult to navigate.” Dr. Maura Adams Wenzel   Resources Conway School of Nursing The Catholic University of America Seton Magazine: Answering the Nursing Call to Duty by Dr. Maura Wenzel  Homeschooling Information Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

In an enlightening exchange, Mary Ellen and Ginny discuss the remarkable but often overlooked value of a Liberal Arts education.    Michael Yost of Thomas More College joins our hosts today, revealing why a Liberal Arts education may be the wisest, most valuable choice your student could ever make. This conversation could change everything if college is in your family's future.   The Remarkable and Increasing Value of a Liberal Arts Education Michael Yost is the Senior Admissions Officer at Thomas More College of Liberal Arts. He is a 2018 graduate of the college where he met his lovely bride. They are the proud parents of three beautiful children.  Tapping into Mr. Yost's expertise as Senior Admissions Officer, our hosts discuss: How affordable is Thomas More College? Work-study opportunities. Why is the Rome Semester integral to their education? The Admission Department's view of "Mom diplomas." The value of extracurriculars on the college application.   Full disclosure by Mary Ellen: I have a daughter who graduated from Thomas More College, so I am partial to the college; it's dear to me.    What makes Thomas More College a unique experience compared to other colleges? The focus is on a college education rather than training.  Students learn to be fully rational, knowledgeable creatures capable of understanding themselves, their Maker, and the world around them. They are trained to be talented communicators, able to process information rapidly and clearly.  Skilled in communication abilities needed in a world driven by data and information.   The Thomas More College Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts.  Our Program consists exclusively of the great works of the Western canon, deliberately organized in our single, integrated program of studies.  By carefully guiding in-class conversations, our exceptional faculty start students down the path of Wisdom in a mode more characteristic of discovery than instruction.  These aspects set the College apart from most other institutions of higher learning, yet the College is truly unique in its emphasis on the necessity of experience.  Each student sees first hand the impact of culture in our mandatory semester in Rome, begins the study of philosophy by studying the natural world in our Natural History course, and learns the value of craftsmanship in our Guild program.   The Rome Program – Integral to the Thomas More Education In their Rome semester, Thomas More College sophomores  Traverse catacombs and cloisters, piazzas, and palazzos. Explore the heart of the Christian West. Experience the history of Christendom written in the stones and on the ceilings, in the streets and the cemeteries, and in the skyline dominated not by skyscrapers but by the dome of St. Peter's.   Statistics: After four years at Thomas More College, each student has Written at least 64 papers. Participated in 1,792 seminar hours Translated over 1,000 lines of Homer, Cicero, and other Classical authors. Read 10,000 pages of the Great Books. Traveled over 8,400 miles to and from Rome, Italy. Visited over 100 baroque churches, Roman architectural sites, Renaissance piazzas, and catacombs. See it all here.    Thomas More Resources FAQs Meet Michael Yost The Rome Program: An Integral Part of the TMC Experience   Homeschool Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services  

Let's All Keep Chickens! Dalia Monterroso is the passionate author of "Let's All Keep Chickens! The Down-to-Earth Guide to Natural Practices for Healthier Birds and a Happier World," and her enthusiasm for this homeschool-friendly topic is contagious.   She is a popular teacher on the basics of backyard chicken keeping. In today’s show, Dalia talks with Ginny and Mary Ellen about her book, which is gaining popularity among homeschooling families who appreciate its educational value as part of their learning curriculum.    Program Notes: Dalia is the creator of the website and YouTube channel "Welcome to Chickenlandia," podcast "Bawk Tawk," and an online course called "Chickenlandia's Backyard Chickens 101". She also hosted a TEDx talk titled "I Dream of Chickens."  She is also the author of "Let's All Keep Chickens! The Down-to-Earth Guide to Natural Practices for Healthier Birds and a Happier World," a comprehensive guide for beginners and experienced chicken keepers.   Getting started 1. Is it legal to own chickens where you live? 2. What is the expense and the daily care?  3. Is there a good number of chickens to start with?  4. What's your best advice for frugally getting started? 5. What are the recommended breeds?   Chickenlandia for Homeschoolers 1. Why does chicken keeping resonate with homeschooling families?  2. What unexpected life skills can kids gain from interacting with chickens?  3. How do you integrate chicken keeping into your curriculum?  4. How does chicken keeping help us connect better with ourselves and each other?   Resources "Let's All Keep Chickens! The Down-to-Earth Guide to Natural Practices for Healthier Birds and a Happier World Dalia's website and YouTube channel "Welcome to Chickenlandia." Her online course is called "Chickenlandia's Backyard Chickens 101." Dalia's TEDx talk titled "I Dream of Chickens."    Homeschool Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Is your homeschooling experiencing the “End of the Winter Blues?” Are you frustrated that you and the kids have been cooped up way too long? Ginny and Mary Ellen have the tonic for that. Their formula is simple, and their solutions are straightforward. Their insight, ideas, and effective routines will help you manage everything.   How to Homeschool and Not Lose Your Mind (PART II) This is part two of our topic. If you missed one, listen to the episode posted last week. Last week, we covered discipline, early rising, prayer, and focusing on what is right for your family. So, let’s jump back in. Household – three things must be done daily. 1 – Laundry: washed, dried, folded, and put away. 2 – Meals: menu plan, grocery plan, and a well-stocked pantry. 3 – School: math, reading, and religion. Keys to Success Simplify your home and life as much as possible. Eliminate clutter. Minimize time out of the house. Before you join a co-op or pod school - Discern carefully! They sound attractive, but: Will it be worth it? They require everyone to be up and dressed for outside the house. Drive time there, entertaining the non-co-op kids, and a drive home. Don’t buy the socialization nonsense.  Let them be friends with their siblings, cousins, neighbors, and teammates. Socialization occurs outside of academic situations all the time. Basic Rules of Life – Children Pray with them. Instill discipline. Give them meaningful work. Basic Rules of Life – Older Boys Maintain a schedule. Should have physical work. Occupy their time as much as possible. Teens should get paying jobs, gaining valuable skills that their peers lack. Idle hands are the devil’s workshop. Spend time outside every day. Even 15 minutes makes a difference. Kids need vigorous exercise and lots of fresh air. Better concentration in class, and standardized test scores went way up. Homeschool strategy in a nutshell Pick a program and stick with it. Simplify your curriculum. Don’t follow trends (stay off the internet). Minimize the outings. Do school every day. Strengthening your marriage is very important.  Schedule a home date regularly. Welcome him when he arrives. Praise him often and speak well of him. Listen to his concerns and involve him in your decisions.   Homeschool Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Sometimes, homeschooling can feel like the most overwhelming, frustrating, impossible thing to do, especially at the end of winter. You and the kids have been stuck in the house, and the work seems never-ending. It just feels gloomy. We've all been there.    But it's a new day, and Ginny and Mary Ellen are here with ideas and a plan that includes humor, smiles, and simple, effective methods to succeed with your family's homeschooling. Welcome to Episode One of Season Two – It's great to be back with you!   How to Homeschool and Not Lose Your Mind (PART I) There are no magic bullets. Methods or systems will only work if you are disciplined.  Focus on your children's needs,  Make a plan for the day, and stick with it.  Schedules work—even when they don't.  Do what works for your family, not what works for another family.  Copying other mom's systems can lead you astray and waste precious time. The internet can be a tool, but it also makes you crazy.  OTOH, if a homeschooler has it all together, become her best friend. See what she does. Get up early as best and often as you can.  This is your prayer time, personal grooming, caffeine, and prep for the day. Start your morning the night before.  Lay out clothes for the day the night before.  Straighten the house before going to bed. Pray Center your homeschool on God and petition Our Lady.  Use visual reminders (statues, pictures, holy cards). Frequent confession. Put it on the schedule. Start each day with prayer.  Say the Angelus at lunchtime. Consult your husband.  Find out his priorities for his household/homeschool.  Bring your problems to him.  Make him the principal of your homeschool.  If a kid is difficult, this is a "dad has to make him" job.  Dad: 1. Warn Junior before you leave for work (If your mother tells me….)  2. Call at lunch (Do you remember what I told you this morning?)  3. First thing dad says when he gets home (Junior, what kind of a report does mom have for me?)   Homeschool Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

Are you considering homeschooling your child with special needs? Are you already in the trenches and feeling like you aren’t doing well? This show could be a lifesaver. Mary Ellen has been there, and Ginny has a wealth of knowledge to bring to the subject. Let’s tackle the five things you need to know about homeschooling a child with special needs.   Five Things You Should Know About Homeschooling a Child with Special Needs *** Stay tuned to the end of the show to hear our big announcement. ***   First, the Big Things You Should Know… about homeschooling your child with special needs.  What do we mean by special needs?  When we speak about children who have educational issues outside the norm, we mean children who have been diagnosed with a neurological or physical condition that impairs learning or makes learning particularly challenging in some way. How to get a diagnosis – and how not to. The how-NOT-to is on social media. If you ask a question, people may respond based on their own experience – BUT they don’t know the facts of your case. Let’s say you tell little Johnny to put his navy-blue shirt on, and he comes out with his maroon one. He seems to do this all the time.  ● He could have attention deficit disorder.  ● He could have a hearing loss.  ● He could have an auditory processing disorder. ● He could be colorblind.  ● Or it could be nothing to be concerned about at all. See a professional if you are worried. If $ is a problem, you can often get an evaluation from your local public school district.   Five Essential Things You Should Know 1. You Can Do This There is a myriad of resources to help you navigate your student’s challenges. You don’t need a degree in special ed; you are an expert in your child.  2. Sometimes, Doing Less is More With a challenged child, sometimes doing less is more. It may take a challenged child longer to graduate than the typical 12 years. That’s fine. If you need to go an extra year or even two, there are no worries about that.  3. Life Skills can be as Critical as Academic Skills There are certain special needs children for whom life skills are just as critical as academic skills. They may not be able to do algebra, but they need to know how to count up change in the grocery store, navigate a bus route, or cook for themselves.  4. Routines and Rhythms Creating a daily routine or rhythm can be extremely helpful. If your child learns what to expect and when there is a lot less anxiety, that makes learning much easier.  5. Asking for Help is Not a Failure Sometimes, you need the services of an expert, be that a speech therapist or a reading specialist. You are still directing the education of your child, and you are still the manager.   Special Announcement.  When we started this podcast over a year ago, we were filled with ideas and enthusiasm, and the past year has been a great blessing. Still, we are starting to get a wee bit burnt out, so to keep the episodes you enjoy coming along, we will make some changes.  First, we are taking a hiatus for a few months to regain our bearings.  Beginning January 1st, we will be on break until March 1st. This breather will give us time to catch up on some neglected projects and write new material for upcoming podcast episodes. Next, we are changing from a weekly format to an every-other-week format.  This format change is for a couple of reasons. 1. We don’t want you to look at your inbox, see it full of us, and be exasperated. It’s hard to listen every week, and if you feel behind, you might not be inclined to stick with us.  2. The other reason is that we feel much more energized when we have that little break.    We hope you will start tuning in again in March when we come out of the gate with all kinds of new material. In the meantime, there are about 60 episodes you can listen to in our archive if you miss the sound of our New York accents.   Homeschool Resources Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services