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Kids & Family
Cait Curley, MA/CAGS
Homeschooling is easier when you have a sister by your side. Since 2016, and with over 1.6 million downloads worldwide, The Homeschool Sisters Podcast has been dedicated to supporting sisters across all walks of life. We are here to support you (and cheer you on!) as you raise your wildly unique children and teens.
Total 173 episodes
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Episode 159:  Support for Stressed Out Families, with Debbie Fear of Wild Psychology

Episode 159: Support for Stressed Out Families, with Debbie Fear of Wild Psychology

Episode 159:  Support for Stressed Out Families, with Debbie Fear of Wild Psychology If you are a parent or caregiver and feel like you're drowning in stress, you're not alone. Many of us feel like we are struggling to stay afloat amid a torrent of midlife changes and challenges. We're trying to homeschool and tackle our to-do list while also navigating relationship stress, child-related stress, and work stress. Plus, many of us are part of the growing "sandwich generation" where we find ourselves caring not only for our own children but for aging parents.   In today's episode, we are joined by Debbie Fear of Wild Psychology. Debbie has over two decades of experience as a psychologist and she's also mum to two neurodivergent children. Now, Debbie provides online coaching, counseling & psychotherapy for big-hearted people who want to make a difference through her website, Wild Psychology. This episode is brought to you by Night Zookeeper. For all show notes (and a special offer from Night Zookeeper), please visit the show notes below: - Support for Stressed Out Families, with Debbie Fear of Wild Psychology [Episode 159]
01:00:2915/11/2024
Episode 158: A homeschool DITL of an outside-the-box family, with Amy Milcic

Episode 158: A homeschool DITL of an outside-the-box family, with Amy Milcic

Episode 158: A homeschool DITL of an outside-the-box family, with Amy Milcic   One of the benefits of homeschooling is that we can customize the homeschool experience to meet the unique needs of our children and teens. We have the freedom to create an educational experience that honors their strengths and helps them with any unique challenges.   In this episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast, we are joined by Amy Milcic of Rock Your Homeschool. Amy is a veteran homeschool mama to five unique boys. Parents of outside-the-box kiddos will love learning about Amy, her family, and how Amy works to meet the needs of her children.   So, grab a cup of coffee and let's chat! This episode is brought to you by Night Zookeeper. For all show notes (and a special offer from Night Zookeeper), please visit the show notes below: - Episode 158: A homeschool DITL of an outside-the-box family, with Amy Milcic https://my-little-poppies.com/homeschool-day-in-the-life-of-an-outside-the-box-family/    
27:4101/11/2024
Episode 157: Large Family Homeschooling: Meeting Each Child's Needs, with Robyn Calvi

Episode 157: Large Family Homeschooling: Meeting Each Child's Needs, with Robyn Calvi

Large Family Homeschooling: Meeting Each Child's Needs, with Robyn Calvi   Homeschooling, much like parenting, is a long game. So much of the journey involves trusting your gut and believing in the process. This week, Robyn Calvi is back on the podcast to discuss large family homeschooling and how it is possible to meet each child's unique needs. Get ready to feel your shoulders relax and get a dose of homeschool inspiration from Robyn's words. Grab a cup of your favorite warm beverage and let's chat!   This episode is brought to you by Night Zookeeper. For all show notes (and a special offer from Night Zookeeper), please visit the show notes below: - Large Family Homeschooling: Meeting Each Child's Needs, with Robyn Calvi [Episode 157] https://my-little-poppies.com/large-family-homeschooling/  
39:4518/10/2024
Episode 156: Film Study in Your Homeschool, with Lydia Rosado [Episode 156]

Episode 156: Film Study in Your Homeschool, with Lydia Rosado [Episode 156]

Episode 156: Film Study in Your Homeschool, with Lydia Rosado    Have you ever wanted to incorporate film study into your homeschool routine? Did you even know that family movie night could "count" as part of your homeschool and lead to heaps of learning?   In this episode, Lydia Rosado discusses how watching movies as a family can be a form of connection, memory-making, and incredibly educational. Lydia has long been a master of incredibly inspiring unit studies and now she's sharing her creativity and love of film with the larger homeschool community. You're not going to want to miss this episode, sisters! This episode is brought to you by Night Zookeeper. For all show notes (and a special offer from Night Zookeeper), please visit the show notes below: - Episode 156: Film Study in Your Homeschool, with Lydia Rosado [Episode 156]   https://my-little-poppies.com/film-study-homeschool/  
01:00:0504/10/2024
Episode 155: Teaching Reading In Your Homeschool and How to Keep it Fun, with Sarah Constantine

Episode 155: Teaching Reading In Your Homeschool and How to Keep it Fun, with Sarah Constantine

  Episode 155: Teaching Reading In Your Homeschool and How to Keep it Fun, with Sarah Constantine  Sarah Constantine is back on The Homeschool Sisters Podcast to discuss reading and how to keep it fun. She has an M.Ed in Early Childhood Education focused on literacy development and is LETRS certified. Sarah taught kindergarten, first, and third grade before leaving to be with the kiddos full-time.   You're not going to want to miss her valuable insight and incredible reading resource recommendations (especially allll the games)!   This episode is brought to you by Night Zookeeper. For all show notes (and a special offer from Night Zookeeper), please visit the show notes below: - Episode 155: Teaching Reading In Your Homeschool and How to Keep it Fun, with Sarah Constantine   
44:4620/09/2024
Episode 154: Can You Teach Homeschool Math Without A Textbook? with Jessica Waldock

Episode 154: Can You Teach Homeschool Math Without A Textbook? with Jessica Waldock

Episode 154: "Can You Teach Homeschool Math Without A Textbook?" with Jessica Waldock  If math has ever been a pain point in your homeschool, please know you're not alone. So many of us have encountered power struggles regarding homeschooling math. And no one is learning when a kid is crying over a math book. Have you ever wondered if you can homeschool math without a textbook? Do you want to make mathematics more fun and work it into your everyday family life? Well, you're in luck because Jessica Waldock from The Waldock Way is joining us to discuss all of this and more! This episode is sponsored by Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a very special offer for listeners of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast – A 7-day free trial and 50% off annual membership. To get your special offer, click the link in our show notes (link below). To view the episode show notes and the special offer from Night Zookeeper, click the link below:  - Can You Teach Homeschool Math Without A Textbook? with Jessica Waldock https://my-little-poppies.com/can-you-teach-homeschool-math-without-a-textbook/  
31:1605/09/2024
Episode 153: The Importance of Finding Daily Joy, with Vanessa Wright

Episode 153: The Importance of Finding Daily Joy, with Vanessa Wright

Episode 153: The Importance of Finding Daily Joy, with Vanessa Wright  Often, when you're in the throes of parenting, homeschooling, and doing all the things, taking time to notice JOY might not be high on your list. But it should be! Cultivating a daily joy practice can help shift your mood, mindset, and mothering journey. In this episode, Vanessa Wright is back and she's sharing some simple tips on cultivating a joy-filled daily practice to help boost your energy and creativity.  This is one of those episodes that will inspire you to search for the daily joy, and will have a positive impact on everyone in your orbit! So, grab a cup of coffee and let's chat! This episode is sponsored by Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a very special offer for listeners of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast – A 7-day free trial and 50% off annual membership. To get your special offer, click the link in our show notes (link below). To view the episode show notes and the special offer from Night Zookeeper, click the link below:  - Episode 153: The Importance of Finding Daily Joy, with Vanessa Wright  https://my-little-poppies.com/daily-joy-vanessa-wright/ 
41:4223/08/2024
Episode 152: Finding Your Midlife FLOW, with Vanessa Wright

Episode 152: Finding Your Midlife FLOW, with Vanessa Wright

Episode 152: Finding Your Midlife FLOW, with Vanessa Wright   If you're a mother in midlife, you're going to love this episode. Vanessa Wright is back on the podcast and she's sharing the importance of caring for yourself, amid the chaos that is parenting and homeschooling.  And we're not talking about bubble baths and candles- because honestly? Not everyone loves those things! If you're finding yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and wondering what you want to do with your next chapter, this conversation is for you. (The self-care travel bag suggestion is worth its weight in GOLD, mamas!) So pull up a chair, pop in those earbuds, and take a minute to focus on you and find your FLOW! This episode is sponsored by Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a very special offer for listeners of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast –  A 7-day free trial and 50% off annual membership. To view the episode show notes and the special offer from Night Zookeeper, click the link below: - Episode 152: Finding Your Midlife FLOW, with Vanessa Wright 
36:1809/08/2024
Episode 151: *BONUS EPISODE* Struggling Readers, with Shawna Wingert [Episode 151]

Episode 151: *BONUS EPISODE* Struggling Readers, with Shawna Wingert [Episode 151]

Episode 151: *BONUS EPISODE* Struggling Readers, with Shawna Wingert [Episode 151] Our Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms has been an absolute hit! Each time we aired an episode of the series, we'd receive a slew of emails, and all of them essentially said the same thing: More Shawna, please! Here at The Homeschool Sisters Podcast, we aim to please. You ask, and we love to answer. This week, we have a BONUS episode for you. Shawna is back on the pod discussing one of the biggest pain points for homeschool parents: struggling readers. View show notes: - Episode 151: *BONUS EPISODE* Struggling Readers, with Shawna Wingert [Episode 151]  
38:2128/07/2024
Episode 150: Executive Functioning and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 150: Executive Functioning and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 150: Executive Functioning and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert Welcome to the FINAL episode of our Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms! This summer series has covered the following subjects: online learning, sensory needs, anxiety, and executive functioning, and each topic has a special focus on unique learners. Today, our final episode covers executive functioning and unique learners. And it also touches upon parenting when you also struggle with executive functioning. So, pour a cup of coffee, grab those earbuds, and put your feet up. You're going to want to listen to this one! Visit the show notes: - Episode 150: Executive Functioning and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert    
46:0719/07/2024
Episode 149: Anxiety and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 149: Anxiety and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 149: Anxiety and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert   This week, we are happy to share our third of four podcast episodes focused on the needs of unique learners. These four episodes with Shawna Wingert are part of our Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms, sponsored by Homeschool Planet. This Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms covers the following subjects: online learning, sensory needs, anxiety, and executive functioning. All of these topics have a focus on unique learners. This week, we are answering all of your questions about anxiety. Visit the show notes: - Anxiety and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert [Episode 149]  
52:4613/07/2024
Episode 148: Sensory Needs and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 148: Sensory Needs and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 148: Sensory Needs and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert Our homeschool cousin, Shawna Wingert, is back on the podcast for the final four episodes of our summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms. Shawna is going to be discussing homeschooling unique learners. These episodes will cover the following topics: online learning, sensory needs, anxiety, and executive functioning. In this week's episode, Shawna shares about sensory needs and unique learners. You won't want to miss it! Visit the show notes: Episode 148: Sensory Needs and Unique Learners, with Shawna Wingert
40:2006/07/2024
Episode 147: Unique Learners and Online Learning, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 147: Unique Learners and Online Learning, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 147: Unique Learners and Online Learning, with Shawna Wingert Our homeschool cousin, Shawna Wingert, is back on the podcast for the final four episodes of our summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms. Shawna is going to be discussing homeschooling unique learners. These episodes will cover the following topics: online learning, sensory needs, anxiety, and executive functioning. In this week's episode, Shawna shares the ins and outs of using online learning methodologies with unique learners. You won't want to miss it! Visit the show notes: https://my-little-poppies.com/online-learning/
35:3529/06/2024
Episode 146: Connecting With Your Kids Through Cooking, with Samantha Barnes

Episode 146: Connecting With Your Kids Through Cooking, with Samantha Barnes

Episode 146: Connecting With Your Kids Through Cooking, with Samantha Barnes In this fourth episode of our Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms, we are chatting with Samantha Barnes of Raddish Kids about the importance of connecting with our kids through cooking. And if you're a parent who could maybe use a little help with meal planning (um, hi, it's me), be sure to listen in to learn more about Raddish Kids' Supper Club, which takes all the guesswork out of meal prep and planning for us big kids! View the show notes here: - Episode 146: Connecting With Your Kids Through Cooking, with Samantha Barnes
28:5821/06/2024
Episode 145: On The Importance of Nature, with Linda Åkeson McGurk

Episode 145: On The Importance of Nature, with Linda Åkeson McGurk

Episode 145: On The Importance of Nature, with Linda Åkeson McGurk In the third episode of our Summer 2024 Poolside Professional Development Series for Moms, we explore the importance of nature in the lives of our children, teens, and ourselves. This week, we are sharing a conversation with Linda Åkeson McGurk, a Swedish-American writer, author, and blogger. If you're a lifelong nature enthusiast, or if you'd love to include more nature into your days but don't know where to begin, you're going to love this episode! View the show notes here: - Episode 145: On The Importance of Nature, with Linda Åkeson McGurk  
36:2415/06/2024
Episode 144: On Simplicity, with Kim John Payne

Episode 144: On Simplicity, with Kim John Payne

Episode 144: On Simplicity, with Kim John Payne In the second episode of our Poolside Professional Development Summer Series for Moms we are sharing a conversation with Kim John Payne. Yes, that's right, sisters- he's back! Kim John Payne, M.ED, is an award-winning author and has been a school counselor, adult educator, consultant, researcher, educator, and private family counselor for twenty-seven years. In this conversation, we discuss child development, adolescence, homeschooling, media consumption, and how to simplify it all! View the show notes here: - Episode 144: On Simplicity, with Kim John Payne
49:4708/06/2024
Episode 143: Poolside Professional Development 2024

Episode 143: Poolside Professional Development 2024

Episode 143: Poolside Professional Development 2024 It's the last few days of May, and you know what that means, sisters: Poolside Professional Development! In this first episode of our 2024 summer series, Cait shares the titles in her summer book stack. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming summer series, "Poolside Professional Development for Moms," where we will share inspiring conversations all summer! When you finish listening, drop us a comment and let us know about YOUR poolside reading plans! Our summer 2024 series is sponsored by Homeschool Planet. Learn more about Homeschool Planet and get a FREE 30-day free trial (no credit card required) and an integrated lesson plan of your choice by click in the link in this episode's show notes (below). Visit the show notes for this episode: - Poolside Professional Development 2024 [Episode 143]
24:3030/05/2024
Episode 142: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 2 of 2

Episode 142: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 2 of 2

Episode 142: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 2 of 2  We are wrapping up the Winter-Spring 2024 Homeschool Sisters Podcast season and we have saved the very best for last. Kara Anderson is back for a 2-part conversation that you're going to adore!   Join the sisters as we chat about everything, from the weird bittersweet season of finishing the homeschool journey, to figuring out what to do when you grow up, to the very best glasses for middle aged ladies, how to stop searching and just BE, perimenopause, morning routines, and more.   Kara also shares a personal update on her new writing and podcasting adventure, Where the Beauty Is! Join us for the final installment of this 2-part conversation. We can't wait to hang with you again, sisters! View the show notes for this episode: - Episode 142: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 2 of 2
01:02:0011/05/2024
Episode 141: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 1 of 2

Episode 141: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 1 of 2

Episode 141: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 1 of 2   We are wrapping up the Winter-Spring 2024 Homeschool Sisters Podcast season, and we have saved the very best for last. Kara Anderson is back for a 2-part conversation you will adore! Join the sisters as we chat about everything, from the weird bittersweet season of finishing the homeschool journey, to figuring out what to do when you grow up, to the very best glasses for middle aged ladies, how to stop searching and just BE, perimenopause, morning routines, and more. Kara also shares a personal update on her new writing and podcasting adventure, Where the Beauty Is! Join us for the first of this 2-part conversation. We can't wait to hang with you again, sisters! View the show notes for this episode: - Episode 141: A Conversation with Kara Anderson, Part 1 of 2
01:05:4626/04/2024
Episode 140: The Importance of Personalized Learning, with Amir Nathoo of Outschool

Episode 140: The Importance of Personalized Learning, with Amir Nathoo of Outschool

Episode 140: The Importance of Personalized Learning, with Amir Nathoo of Outschool Hiya, sisters! We are excited to bring this week's episode to your earbuds because we know we have oodles of Outschool fans in the Sisters community. And if you haven't heard of Outschool yet, you're going to want to pull up a chair and get comfy for a second because we might just rock your homeschool world.  In this week's episode, we welcome Amir Nathoo, founder and CEO of Outschool. What a fun conversation it was! We chat about education, learning, and the sheer joy of a personalized education. Amir shares his experience with a traditional educational path and also shares how alternative paths, like the homeschool movement, have helped to shape the Outschool experience. We also discuss how a child's uniqueness, or quirkiness, is something to treasure and how this uniqueness might transform into desired skills when our kiddos enter the job market.   View the show notes for this episode: - The Importance of a Personalized Education, with Amir Nathoo, Founder and CEO of Outschool [Episode 140]
38:1111/04/2024
Episode 139: Homeschool Planning for the Overwhelmed Mom

Episode 139: Homeschool Planning for the Overwhelmed Mom

Keeping Your Life on Track When Life Isn't Simple   Here at The Homeschool Sisters Podcast, we get A LOT of questions about planning. Whether you're someone who lives and breathes all things homeschool planning, or if you're someone who has been struggling to find the perfect planning system from the get-go, you're going to love this episode.   This week, The Homeschool Sisters Podcast welcomes Robyn Calvi, a veteran homeschool mom to six children and the COO of Homeschool Planet. In this episode, Robyn keeps it real. She advocates for holding your homeschool plans loosely and being flexible so that you can meet your children's unique needs. At the same time, Robyn shares ways to make planning super easy, even for those who struggle with planning and for the sisters who prefer to plan behind. So, please grab a cup of your favorite beverage and join us for a great conversation!   View the episode show notes: - Episode 139: Keeping Your Life On Track When Life Isn't Simple
32:0722/03/2024
Episode 138: More Than Science, with Brandon Hendrickson of Science is WEIRD

Episode 138: More Than Science, with Brandon Hendrickson of Science is WEIRD

More Than Science, with Brandon Hendrickson of Science is WEIRD Hey, sisters! If you love rabbit holes and learning, you're going to LOVE this episode. Please welcome Brandon Hendrickson of Science is WEIRD to The Homeschool Sisters Podcast. Brandon Hendrickson is the founder of Science is WEIRD, but in this episode, we talk about SO much more than "just" science. From Mr. Roger’s to Taylor Swift's hidden Easter eggs to the horrors of balloon animals, to riddle culture in medieval times, to Greek mathematics, to golf, to cartoon wars, to fossils... we even talk about tombstones! Pour yourself a cup of your favorite warm beverage, hunker down with us for a bit, and hang on to your hats. It's a fun ride! View the episode show notes: https://my-little-poppies.com/more-than-science/
01:19:4514/03/2024
Episode 137: For The Child Who Is NOT College Bound, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 137: For The Child Who Is NOT College Bound, with Shawna Wingert

Episode 137: For The Child Who Is NOT College Bound, with Shawna Wingert   What if you are homeschooling a child who doesn't plan on attending college? How do you create a non-college-bound educational track for your child, especially in high school? How does one document this type of learning? How do you field questions and comments about your child's future? If you have a tween or teen with learning challenges, is it okay to stretch high school beyond the traditional four years?   In this week's episode, Cait shares a question submitted to the site and phones a friend. Shawna Wingert is our homeschool cousin. She's been on the podcast more than any other guest and with good reason! In this episode, Shawna shares her experience with all of the questions mentioned above and more!   Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode: -  Episode 137: For The Child Who Is NOT College Bound, with Shawna Wingert
33:3001/03/2024
Episode 136: More Than Math, with Mr. D.

Episode 136: More Than Math, with Mr. D.

Episode 135: More Than Math, with Mr. D. Please welcome Dennis DiNoia to The Homeschool Sisters Podcast. In today's episode, we take a deep dive into the world of education, homeschooling, parenting, and how to raise self-directed learners who aren't afraid to explore their passions, set goals, and pursue a career that they love. Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode: - Episode 136: More Than Math, with Mr. D  
51:4115/02/2024
Episode 135: Excellent Students vs. Excellent Learners

Episode 135: Excellent Students vs. Excellent Learners

Episode 135: Excellent Students vs. Excellent Learners  In today's episode, Cait discusses a submission from the Sisters community.  What is the difference between being an "excellent student" and an "excellent learner," and how do we help children transition from a traditional school setting to a homeschool routine? What do we do if our children put enormous pressure on themselves? How do we help them follow their interests and not worry about being/doing/achieving "enough?"  Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode: - Episode 135: Excellent Students vs. Excellent Learners
35:3602/02/2024
Episode 134: Homeschooling in 2024: A Homeschool Sisters Update

Episode 134: Homeschooling in 2024: A Homeschool Sisters Update

Episode 134: Homeschooling in 2024: A Homeschool Sisters Update Happy 2024, Sisters! In our first episode of '24, Cait takes a look back at 2023 and all of the big changes and transitions that happened during the year. Then, Cait shares a sneak peek into the upcoming season. We have an incredible line-up of guests and episode topics that you are going to love! Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode: - Show Notes for Episode 133: Homeschooling in 2024: A Homeschool Sisters Update
46:5319/01/2024
Episode 133: Teaching Your Child to Read: Tips for Success (And When You Need to Worry), with Sarah Constantine

Episode 133: Teaching Your Child to Read: Tips for Success (And When You Need to Worry), with Sarah Constantine

Teaching Your Child to Read: Tips for Success (And When You Need to Worry), with Sarah Constantine [Episode 133] What is the best way to teach your child to read? When should you start teaching your child how to read? What should you look for when choosing a reading curriculum? How much time should you spend on reading lessons? And when should you worry? What are the warning signs that might mean your kiddo needs some extra support when it comes to early literacy and reading development? I receive all of these questions and more in my inbox every month. Today, I am phoning a friend, and I think you'll LOVE this conversation! Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode: Show Notes for Teaching Your Child to Read: Tips for Success (And When You Need to Worry with Sarah Constantine
59:2603/11/2023
Episode 132: The Ins and Outs of College for Neurodivergent Homeschoolers with Jessica Nelson

Episode 132: The Ins and Outs of College for Neurodivergent Homeschoolers with Jessica Nelson

The Ins and Outs of College for Neurodivergent Homeschoolers with Jessica Nelson [Episode 132] Are you homeschooling a unique learner? Are you homeschooling a high schooler? Are you worried about creating transcripts? Does the thought of college applications make you break it into a cold sweat? Are you looking for practical tips and strategies for making the college application process easier? If so, you're going to love today's episode. Please welcome Jessica Nelson from Collegewise. Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode, including a special offer from our sponsor, Homeschool Planet: Show Notes for The Ins and Outs of College for Neurodivergent Homeschoolers with Jessica Nelson  
01:04:0420/10/2023
Episode 131: Reading Aloud and Older Kids, with Sarah Mackenzie

Episode 131: Reading Aloud and Older Kids, with Sarah Mackenzie

Reading Aloud and Older Kids, with Sarah Mackenzie [Episode 131] Please welcome Sarah Mackenzie of Read-Aloud Revival and Waxwing Books to the podcast. Are you curious if reading aloud to tweens and teens is still important? Do you want to read aloud to your teens, but they aren't interested? What do you do if you've fallen out of the habit and want to re-establish a read-aloud routine with your kids? Plus, get a behind-the-scenes peek into what it's like to be a children's author and discover what is coming up for Read-Aloud Revival and Waxwing Books! Visit the episode page for everything mentioned in today's episode, including a special offer from our sponsor, Homeschool Planet: https://my-little-poppies.com/reading-aloud-and-older-kids-with-sarah-mackenzie
29:3307/10/2023
Episode 130: Middle School Math That's Actually Fun, with Betsy Mays

Episode 130: Middle School Math That's Actually Fun, with Betsy Mays

Middle School Math That's Actually Fun, with Betsy Mays [Episode 130] Are you wondering if it's possible to make middle school math fun? (Spoiler: Yes, it's possible!) Join us for a conversation with Betsy Mays, a veteran middle school math teacher, parent, instruction and curriculum specialist, and game designer. Visit the episode page here: https://my-little-poppies.com/middle-school-math-thats-actually-fun-with-betsy-mays-episode-130/
37:0608/09/2023
Episode 129: Homeschool Language Classes From A Mom Who Gets It, with Sophia Storm

Episode 129: Homeschool Language Classes From A Mom Who Gets It, with Sophia Storm

Homeschool Language Classes From A Mom Who Gets It, with Sophia Storm [Episode 129]  Are you curious about how to include foreign languages in your homeschool? Join us for a conversation on language learning with Sophia Storm. Sophia is a homeschool graduate, traveler, new mom, and owner of Spanish With Sophia. Special thanks to our sponsor Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a special offer for Homeschool Sisters - a 7-day FREE trial and 50% off an annual membership with this special link.    Visit the episode page here: https://my-little-poppies.com/homeschool-language-classes/
43:2125/08/2023
Episode 128: 5 Things That Have Surprised Me As A Homeschool Mom with Shawna Wingert

Episode 128: 5 Things That Have Surprised Me As A Homeschool Mom with Shawna Wingert

 Special thanks to our sponsor Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a special offer for Homeschool Sisters - a 7-day FREE trial and 50% off an annual membership with this special link.    Episode 128: 5 Things That Have Surprised Me As A Homeschool Mom with Shawna Wingert Two veteran homeschool moms discuss what has surprised them most throughout their homeschool journey. Practical and encouraging, this is a conversation for moms in all stages of homeschooling with children of all ages. To view all content and related links, visit our show notes!
43:3304/08/2023
Episode 127: Celebrating Books with Mary Hanna Wilson

Episode 127: Celebrating Books with Mary Hanna Wilson

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please refer to our disclosure policy. Special thanks to our sponsor Night Zookeeper. Enjoy a special offer for Homeschool Sisters - a 7-day FREE trial and 50% off an annual membership with this special link.    Celebrating Books with Mary Hanna Wilson: The Homeschool Sisters Podcast [Episode 127] The most powerful tools we have as homeschoolers are also the simplest. This episode is all about books, books, and more books. The Homeschool Sisters Podcast Welcomes Mary Hanna Wilson from Celebrate A Book! Mary is a writer, online teacher, and homeschool mother to four kids ranging from middle school to college. She believes that creativity, laughter, and fun are the backbone of engaging and inspiring homeschools. On her blog, Celebrate a Book with Mary Hanna Wilson, she shares homeschooling resources, tips, and ideas as well as fantastic books lists and tools for teaching literature You can also find her in the virtual classroom leading live book clubs for kids through Outschool. When she is not teaching or writing, you can find her reading, traveling, binge-watching a show with her teens, or enjoying great conversation over a cup of tea. To view all content and related links, visit our show notes!
59:3021/07/2023
Episode 126: When Homeschooled Kids Become Adults, with Samantha Shank

Episode 126: When Homeschooled Kids Become Adults, with Samantha Shank

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please refer to our disclosure policy. As homeschooling parents, we all wonder how it will all work out for our children when they become adults. Will homeschooling adequately prepare them for life after school? Hear the answer directly in this episode with a homeschool graduate now taking on adulthood with passion and commitment. The Homeschool Sisters Podcast Welcomes Samantha Shank from Learn In Color!  Samantha Shank has been an entrepreneur all her life. A homeschool graduate, she started an educational blog and store, Learn in Color, at 14 years old. Within 3 years, she made a full-time income as a freelance graphic designer and marketer as Learn in Color grew. Samantha holds an MSEd in Curriculum and Instruction focusing on Gifted Education. Her expertise is in marketing and graphic design, and her work has been viewed millions of times across social media. As a budding world traveler, Samantha has visited ten countries within the past year, which includes several solo trips.  To view all content and related links, visit our show notes!
34:4423/06/2023
Episode 125: Innovative Homeschool Biology With Dr. Robin

Episode 125: Innovative Homeschool Biology With Dr. Robin

Homeschool science can be boring and rote, or dynamic and engaging. In this episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast, Cait explores a favorite and innovative approach to homeschooling human biology.  Dr. Robin Dickinson, MD is a board-certified family physician with a decade in private practice.  She homeschooled her two children from the beginning and conceived of Dr. Robin's School because of the lack of good-quality science options.  Learn more in this episode's show notes.  Dr. Robin has graciously extended a 40% off coupon to Homeschool Sisters! Use code SISTERS40 for 40% off anything and everything with Dr. Robin's School.   
01:27:4109/06/2023
Episode 124: Lazy Unit Studies And Older Kids

Episode 124: Lazy Unit Studies And Older Kids

Cait's self-named "Lazy Unit Study" approach to homeschooling has long been a discussion topic on the podcast. In this episode, she shares what Lazy Unit Studies have become in her home now that her children are older, and the reality of interest-led learning for tweens and teens.  Looking for more support homeschooling your teens and tweens? Cait's The Lazy Homeschooler's Guide To Unit Studies  includes fun and practical tips for creating unit studies in your homeschool.  For all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.  
52:2926/05/2023
Episode 123:  Mothering In Midlife with Vanessa Wright

Episode 123: Mothering In Midlife with Vanessa Wright

Many of us are homeschooling and mothering as we enter our own midlife season. In this episode, Cait welcomes Vanessa Wright to discuss how we can create beauty and transition well as our children prepare to launch.  Get Vanessa's 3 Tips for Creating a Joy Journal Guide, Printables, and a Playlist for free as a Homeschool Sister HERE.  For all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
56:3812/05/2023
Poolside Professional Development 2023  *Bonus Episode*

Poolside Professional Development 2023 *Bonus Episode*

It's poolside professional development time! If you're looking to refill your homeschool bucket, gain inspiration, feel less alone, and learn from others, this special bonus episode is for you! For all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
32:5605/05/2023
Episode 122: What I'd Tell My Younger Homeschool Self

Episode 122: What I'd Tell My Younger Homeschool Self

Cait is solo in today's episode, sharing what she would tell her younger homeschool self. After nine years of homeschooling, this is as real (and encouraging!) as it gets.  This episode is sponsored by Never Board Learning.  To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode. 
25:0728/04/2023
Episode 121: Homeschooling Kids With Learning Differences: A Day In The Life

Episode 121: Homeschooling Kids With Learning Differences: A Day In The Life

Get a behind the scenes look (listen) at a monthly day in the life discussion from Never Board Learning. Cait is joined by Donessa to discuss the day to day dynamics of homeschooling a child with learning differences.  This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way. Use the code sisters15 to save! To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode. 
55:3014/04/2023
Episode 120: Homeschooling Through Hard Things

Episode 120: Homeschooling Through Hard Things

Homeschooling happens in the realities of our lives. This means that many of us find ourselves in difficult seasons of life, all while trying to help our children learn. Today's episode is an up close look at homeschooling through really hard things.  This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way. Use the code sisters15 to save! To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
41:3031/03/2023
Episode 119: Bittersweet Transitions In Our Homeschools

Episode 119: Bittersweet Transitions In Our Homeschools

Our long days homeschooling eventually turn into months, seasons, and ultimately years. Today's episode is all about the seasons of transition in our homeschools, what we learn about ourselves in them, and the bittersweetness of seeing our children embrace their passions and independence. This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way. Use the code sisters15 to save! To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
55:1417/03/2023
Episode 118: Real Life Homeschooling With Rachel Baker

Episode 118: Real Life Homeschooling With Rachel Baker

Cait welcomes longtime podcast listener Rachel Baker. Together they took a real life look at homeschooling from the persepctive of a mom of four (ages 15, 13, 12, and 9).   This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way. Use the code sisters15 to save! To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
01:00:5503/03/2023
Episode 117: Intuitive Homeschooling With Camille Kirksey

Episode 117: Intuitive Homeschooling With Camille Kirksey

Cait is joined by Camille Kirksey, a homeschool expert and mindset coach who encourages, empowers, and educates parents (whom she calls 'homeschool facilitators') to bring out the best in their children and themselves. This epside of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way. Use the code sisters15 to save! To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
48:0310/02/2023
Episode 116: When Homeschooled Kids Go To Public School

Episode 116: When Homeschooled Kids Go To Public School

Cait shares her family's journey through homeschooling and what lead to two of her three kids enrolling in public school this year.  This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way.  To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
01:11:0327/01/2023
Episode 115: Homeschooling An Only Child

Episode 115: Homeschooling An Only Child

One of my dearest homeschool buddies and a true homeschool sister joins me today. Jessica Waldock and I discuss the reality of homeschooling one one-on-one with an only child.  This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way.  To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
01:07:5313/01/2023
Episode 114: New Beginnings And Homeschool Milestones

Episode 114: New Beginnings And Homeschool Milestones

Catch up with Kara and Cait in this brand new episode all about the twists and turns that homeschool life can bring (plus, a sneak peek at what's in store for 2023!). This episode of The Homeschool Sisters Podcast is brought to you by The Waldock Way.  To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
01:07:5221/12/2022
Episode 113: When Kids Are Resistant

Episode 113: When Kids Are Resistant

For many of us, homeschooling doesn't always look like kids arriving to the table at 7:30 a.m. with huge smiles on their faces, and resistance is actually pretty common. So in this week's episode, the sisters are chatting about what to do when your kids are resistant, and some of the most common things that cause resistance. Cait + Kara have both experienced this in their homes, and so they share openly about their struggles and what has worked to keep everyone going.  To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.  
46:3402/12/2021
Between the Sisters 3

Between the Sisters 3

This is the final Between the Sisters episode of the season! Between the Sisters is just for fun - Cait and Kara share a behind the scenes peek at what happens when they are catching up. Hear about: - "Later Cheese" - Why it's time to take Kara's phone away - Are orthodontists' offices the happiest place on Earth? (or a complete scam? ;) ) - "Can you take a picture of my feet?" - Running with an angry crayfish
16:4125/11/2021
Episode 112: How much does homeschooling cost (and how to homeschool affordably)

Episode 112: How much does homeschooling cost (and how to homeschool affordably)

In this episode, the sisters are breaking down the cost of homeschooling, and how to homeschool affordably. Both Cait and Kara have experience homeschooling on a budget, so they're sharing their best tips for making homeschooling work without breaking the bank. To view all content and links, please visit the show notes for this episode.
32:4018/11/2021