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Unlock the Drive Within: Why Your Child Isn't Motivated -- and What To Do About It
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Spark Joyful Learning: How to Ignite Your Kids’ Curiosity with Just-Right Guidance
At The Joyful Homeschool, we believe that the heart of homeschooling isn’t in rigid schedules or perfect checklists—it’s in sparking a lifelong love of learning. But here’s the tricky part: too much freedom, and your kids might feel lost. Too much control, and their curiosity can burn out fast. This
Beyond the Conveyor Belt: How Project-Based Learning Can Transform Your Homeschool
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” — attributed to Benjamin Franklin Does your homeschool ever feel like a checklist instead of a calling? You’re not alone. Many of us start homeschooling with big hopes—connection, joy, purpose—but somewhere along the line,
How to Blend Your Child’s Interests with the Skills They Need for Life
Ever feel torn between following your child’s passions and making sure they “keep up” with what they should be learning? You’re not alone. As homeschool parents, we carry this invisible weight: “Am I doing enough?” “What if they fall behind?” “Can I really trust their interests to lead to real
Breaking Free from Comparison in Homeschooling
Homeschooling is a sacred, personal journey.But it’s so easy to feel like we’re falling short. Maybe you’ve felt it.Scrolling Instagram.Hearing about another mom’s curriculum. Watching someone else’s kids “excel.” Suddenly, your own journey feels… not enough. Today, let’s talk about how to break free. Because comparison steals what matters most:your
Stuck in Homeschool Struggles? This Model Will Set You Free
How the CTFAR Model Can Help You Stop Spinning in Overwhelm and Start Homeschooling with Peace Do you ever feel like you’re doing all the things—the curriculum, the routines, the planning—and still feel like you’re barely hanging on? Maybe you’re constantly reacting to your kids, doubting your decisions, or comparing
Motivation Mysteries Solved: Why One Kid Follows the Plan and Another Melts Down
Have you ever wondered… Why does one of your kids breeze through schoolwork……while another acts like math is a personal attack? Or maybe you’ve noticed: “Why can I show up for everyone else—but struggle to finish what I planned?” You’re not alone. There’s a reason behind it. And it’s not
Supporting Your Child with ADHD: Insights from ADHD Expert Brittney King
Did you know that 90% of children with ADHD struggle in school? I recently had the privilege of interviewing Brittney King, a licensed professional counselor, ADHD expert, and coach. She shared valuable insights on how parents can better understand and support their children with ADHD. The Power of Diagnosis: Clarity
Raising Resilient Kids in a Culture of Safetyism
Are we protecting our kids too much? Many parents think shielding children from difficulty will help them thrive. But research shows the opposite. Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff call this “safetyism” in their book The Coddling of the American Mind. Safetyism teaches kids that discomfort is dangerous. But real growth
The Sneaky Ways Shame Shows Up in Homeschooling
Shame is sneaky. It doesn’t show up and announce itself. Instead, it whispers things like: “I should be doing more.” “If I were a better mom, my kids would be thriving.” “Other homeschool moms seem to have it all figured out.” “If I admit I’m struggling, people will think I’m
Spark Joyful Learning: How to Ignite Your Kids’ Curiosity with Just-Right Guidance
At The Joyful Homeschool, we believe that the heart of homeschooling isn’t in rigid schedules or perfect checklists—it’s in sparking a lifelong love of learning. But here’s the tricky part: too much freedom, and your kids might feel lost. Too much control, and their curiosity can burn out fast. This
Beyond the Conveyor Belt: How Project-Based Learning Can Transform Your Homeschool
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” — attributed to Benjamin Franklin Does your homeschool ever feel like a checklist instead of a calling? You’re not alone. Many of us start homeschooling with big hopes—connection, joy, purpose—but somewhere along the line,
How to Blend Your Child’s Interests with the Skills They Need for Life
Ever feel torn between following your child’s passions and making sure they “keep up” with what they should be learning? You’re not alone. As homeschool parents, we carry this invisible weight: “Am I doing enough?” “What if they fall behind?” “Can I really trust their interests to lead to real
Breaking Free from Comparison in Homeschooling
Homeschooling is a sacred, personal journey.But it’s so easy to feel like we’re falling short. Maybe you’ve felt it.Scrolling Instagram.Hearing about another mom’s curriculum. Watching someone else’s kids “excel.” Suddenly, your own journey feels… not enough. Today, let’s talk about how to break free. Because comparison steals what matters most:your
Stuck in Homeschool Struggles? This Model Will Set You Free
How the CTFAR Model Can Help You Stop Spinning in Overwhelm and Start Homeschooling with Peace Do you ever feel like you’re doing all the things—the curriculum, the routines, the planning—and still feel like you’re barely hanging on? Maybe you’re constantly reacting to your kids, doubting your decisions, or comparing
Motivation Mysteries Solved: Why One Kid Follows the Plan and Another Melts Down
Have you ever wondered… Why does one of your kids breeze through schoolwork……while another acts like math is a personal attack? Or maybe you’ve noticed: “Why can I show up for everyone else—but struggle to finish what I planned?” You’re not alone. There’s a reason behind it. And it’s not
Supporting Your Child with ADHD: Insights from ADHD Expert Brittney King
Did you know that 90% of children with ADHD struggle in school? I recently had the privilege of interviewing Brittney King, a licensed professional counselor, ADHD expert, and coach. She shared valuable insights on how parents can better understand and support their children with ADHD. The Power of Diagnosis: Clarity
Raising Resilient Kids in a Culture of Safetyism
Are we protecting our kids too much? Many parents think shielding children from difficulty will help them thrive. But research shows the opposite. Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff call this “safetyism” in their book The Coddling of the American Mind. Safetyism teaches kids that discomfort is dangerous. But real growth
The Sneaky Ways Shame Shows Up in Homeschooling
Shame is sneaky. It doesn’t show up and announce itself. Instead, it whispers things like: “I should be doing more.” “If I were a better mom, my kids would be thriving.” “Other homeschool moms seem to have it all figured out.” “If I admit I’m struggling, people will think I’m
Spark Joyful Learning: How to Ignite Your Kids’ Curiosity with Just-Right Guidance
At The Joyful Homeschool, we believe that the heart of homeschooling isn’t in rigid schedules or perfect checklists—it’s in sparking a lifelong love of learning. But here’s the tricky part: too much freedom, and your kids might feel lost. Too much control, and their curiosity can burn out fast. This
Beyond the Conveyor Belt: How Project-Based Learning Can Transform Your Homeschool
“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” — attributed to Benjamin Franklin Does your homeschool ever feel like a checklist instead of a calling? You’re not alone. Many of us start homeschooling with big hopes—connection, joy, purpose—but somewhere along the line,
How to Blend Your Child’s Interests with the Skills They Need for Life
Ever feel torn between following your child’s passions and making sure they “keep up” with what they should be learning? You’re not alone. As homeschool parents, we carry this invisible weight: “Am I doing enough?” “What if they fall behind?” “Can I really trust their interests to lead to real
Supporting Your Child with ADHD: Insights from ADHD Expert Brittney King
Did you know that 90% of children with ADHD struggle in school? I recently had the privilege of interviewing Brittney King, a licensed professional counselor, ADHD expert, and coach. She shared valuable insights on how parents can better understand and support their children with ADHD. The Power of Diagnosis: Clarity
Reclaiming Childhood in the Digital Age
Childhood has changed. Kids used to spend their days outside, climbing trees, building forts, and playing with friends. Now, they spend hours on smartphones, social media, and video games—and it’s affecting their mental health. Anxiety, depression, and social struggles are rising. Why? Because too much screen time is rewiring their
Creating a Sacred Learning Environment in Your Home
The atmosphere in your home can have a deeper, more lasting impact on your children than any curriculum or schedule. When your home becomes a place of inspiration, beauty, and connection, learning happens naturally and joyfully. A Christ-Centered Atmosphere The foundation of a sacred learning environment is a Christ-centered home.
The Secret to Motivated Learners: It’s Not What You Think
Ever wonder why some kids dive into learning with excitement while others need constant reminders to stay on task? Here’s a hint: Motivation isn’t about rewards or punishments. It’s about what drives them from within. Let’s explore how to unlock intrinsic motivation in your homeschool. Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation Extrinsic
Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset
What is a Growth Mindset? A growth mindset means you believe you can improve with effort and practice.It sounds like: What is a Fixed Mindset? A fixed mindset means you think abilities can’t change.It sounds like: Why Does This Matter? With a fixed mindset, kids give up when it’s hard.With
How the 7 Habits Can Transform Your Homeschool
Homeschooling is amazing. But let’s be real—it’s also a lot. You’re juggling academics, chores, relationships, and your own sanity. That’s where Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families comes in. These simple principles can help you bring more peace and purpose to your homeschool. Let’s break it down. 1.
Breaking Free from Comparison in Homeschooling
Homeschooling is a sacred, personal journey.But it’s so easy to feel like we’re falling short. Maybe you’ve felt it.Scrolling Instagram.Hearing about another mom’s curriculum. Watching someone else’s kids “excel.” Suddenly, your own journey feels… not enough. Today, let’s talk about how to break free. Because comparison steals what matters most:your
Stuck in Homeschool Struggles? This Model Will Set You Free
How the CTFAR Model Can Help You Stop Spinning in Overwhelm and Start Homeschooling with Peace Do you ever feel like you’re doing all the things—the curriculum, the routines, the planning—and still feel like you’re barely hanging on? Maybe you’re constantly reacting to your kids, doubting your decisions, or comparing
Raising Resilient Kids in a Culture of Safetyism
Are we protecting our kids too much? Many parents think shielding children from difficulty will help them thrive. But research shows the opposite. Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff call this “safetyism” in their book The Coddling of the American Mind. Safetyism teaches kids that discomfort is dangerous. But real growth
The Sneaky Ways Shame Shows Up in Homeschooling
Shame is sneaky. It doesn’t show up and announce itself. Instead, it whispers things like: “I should be doing more.” “If I were a better mom, my kids would be thriving.” “Other homeschool moms seem to have it all figured out.” “If I admit I’m struggling, people will think I’m
Reclaiming Childhood in the Digital Age
Childhood has changed. Kids used to spend their days outside, climbing trees, building forts, and playing with friends. Now, they spend hours on smartphones, social media, and video games—and it’s affecting their mental health. Anxiety, depression, and social struggles are rising. Why? Because too much screen time is rewiring their
Why Homeschool Feels Hard (and the Surprising Fix You Need Today)
Feeling Drained and Unmotivated? You sit down to homeschool, but your kids are restless, distracted, and unmotivated. You grab your phone for a quick break, but instead of feeling refreshed, you feel more exhausted. Why does everything feel harder than it should? The answer might not be homeschooling itself—it might
The Divine Spark of Desire: Why Your Dreams Matter as a Homeschool Mom
As homeschool moms, we often feel the weight of being everything for everyone—teacher, nurturer, homemaker, and so much more. With so much responsibility, it can feel selfish to want something for ourselves. But what if those desires—those deep, recurring dreams tugging at your heart—are actually whispers from God? What if
Homeschool Bravely: 7 Principles to Build Confidence as a Homeschool Mom
1. Confidence Through Divine Identity Your worth isn’t tied to how well you homeschool.It’s rooted in who you are: a child of God. “We did not come to this earth to gain our worth – we brought it with us.”— Ardeth G. Kapp, The Joy of the Journey (Deseret Book,
Learning to Say No to Say Yes to What Matters Most
As homeschool moms, we wear many hats: teacher, caregiver, chauffeur, meal planner, and more. Our days are full of opportunities and demands, each vying for our attention and energy. In a world that often equates busyness with worth, it’s easy to feel we should say yes to everything. But when
How My Choice to Surrender Saved Me From Being a Victim
A victim. That is what I felt like. Hadn’t I made all the “right” choices to ensure this wouldn’t happen to MY family? I chose to marry an honorable return missionary in the temple—who over the 18 years of our marriage faithfully sought the Lord’s direction and taught me many
Friday Miracle
There are times in our lives when despite our best efforts, things do not turn out the way we envisioned with our children and families. We put in consistent effort, but because we can’t control others’ agency, the effort doesn’t always equate to the hoped-for outcomes. Navigating these human experiences,
Spark Joyful Learning: How to Ignite Your Kids’ Curiosity with Just-Right Guidance
At The Joyful Homeschool, we believe that the heart of homeschooling isn’t in rigid schedules or perfect checklists—it’s in sparking a lifelong love of learning. But here’s the tricky part: too much freedom, and your kids might feel lost. Too much control, and their curiosity can burn out fast. This
Stop Setting Goals—Do This Instead to Create Lasting Change
Have you ever set a goal, felt motivated at first, and then a few weeks later found yourself right back where you started? You’re not alone! The reason many of us struggle to change is that we focus on what we want to achieve rather than who we want to
Building a Home Where Everyone Takes Ownership
Homeschooling is MessyWhen your house is “lived in” all day, messes are inevitable. The goal isn’t a clean house. The real goal is to teach life skills, stewardship, and responsibility. When kids learn to contribute, they become competent, self-sufficient, and service-oriented adults. Words shape culture. Instead of saying, “Help mom
How the 7 Habits Can Transform Your Homeschool
Homeschooling is amazing. But let’s be real—it’s also a lot. You’re juggling academics, chores, relationships, and your own sanity. That’s where Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families comes in. These simple principles can help you bring more peace and purpose to your homeschool. Let’s break it down. 1.
Finding Outside Mentors for Our Teenagers
As our children grow into their teenage years, a natural shift happens. They become more independent.They begin to develop their own identities.This is exactly what we want! In my homeschool, I’ve found it crucial to honor this development.That means shifting from the role of teacher to facilitator.One of the best
Build Trust Through Interviews
Over the years, my husband and I have diligently tried to keep up with regular interviews with our children. It’s been a journey of consistency—sometimes waxing, sometimes waning. But I’ve noticed a pattern. When things get rocky with one of my kids, it’s usually when we haven’t been connecting in
Boys and Girls Learn Differently: Here’s What You Need to Know
Let’s Talk About Hearing Girls hear better than boys. Especially those higher pitches. What does this mean for learning? Your son isn’t ignoring you. He might genuinely not hear you from across the room. Move closer when giving important instructions to boys. Simple as that. Movement Matters Watch a classroom
ADHD-Friendly Homeschool: How to Create Structure and Joy
From the beginning, I noticed a striking difference between my two oldest children—my oldest, a daughter, and my second child, a son. While my daughter would sit attentively, absorbing each word as I read or taught, my son seemed to have endless energy, doing backflips off the couch. Despite his
Simplify to Focus on What Matters Most
Homeschooling is an incredible journey. But it can easily become overwhelming if we let it. In his talk Good, Better, Best, Elder Dallin H. Oaks reminds us of the importance of focusing on the things that matter most. He teaches that while many things are good, only some things are
Spark Joyful Learning: How to Ignite Your Kids’ Curiosity with Just-Right Guidance
At The Joyful Homeschool, we believe that the heart of homeschooling isn’t in rigid schedules or perfect checklists—it’s in sparking a lifelong love of learning. But here’s the tricky part: too much freedom, and your kids might feel lost. Too much control, and their curiosity can burn out fast. This
Motivation Mysteries Solved: Why One Kid Follows the Plan and Another Melts Down
Have you ever wondered… Why does one of your kids breeze through schoolwork……while another acts like math is a personal attack? Or maybe you’ve noticed: “Why can I show up for everyone else—but struggle to finish what I planned?” You’re not alone. There’s a reason behind it. And it’s not
Building Deep Connections: Five Tools for Strengthening Your Relationship with Your Child
In parenting, connection matters more than correction. When children feel truly seen, heard, and understood, trust grows. Today, let’s explore five powerful tools that can transform your relationship with your child. These tools come from The Mentor’s Handbook by Aneladee Milne but are found in many great parenting and mentoring
Finding Outside Mentors for Our Teenagers
As our children grow into their teenage years, a natural shift happens. They become more independent.They begin to develop their own identities.This is exactly what we want! In my homeschool, I’ve found it crucial to honor this development.That means shifting from the role of teacher to facilitator.One of the best
Build Trust Through Interviews
Over the years, my husband and I have diligently tried to keep up with regular interviews with our children. It’s been a journey of consistency—sometimes waxing, sometimes waning. But I’ve noticed a pattern. When things get rocky with one of my kids, it’s usually when we haven’t been connecting in
Transformation through the Power of Unconditional Love
Who are you? Who are your children? Truly? Have you ever found yourself loving your children a bit conditionally? Do you withhold your affection when your children are not behaving in the way you desire? Do you ever feel like YOU are not enough and unconsciously try to prove you
The Power of Mentoring: A Deeper Connection in Homeschooling
In the world of education and homeschooling, we often use the terms “teaching” and “mentoring” interchangeably. However, a subtle yet crucial difference sets them apart. Let’s explore what distinguishes these two roles and why mentoring can be a game-changer in your homeschooling journey. Teaching: Focusing on Knowledge At its core,
Connecting Heart to Heart
Do you ever find yourself in a transactional relationship with those you love most? Often when I have chosen to spread myself too thin, I find myself “seeing” my family members as “objects” rather than as humans. I act as if they are pawns in my world that should move
Nurturing the Whole Child: A Holistic Approach to Education
In the world of homeschooling and education, it’s easy to get caught up in the academic aspects of teaching. We often find ourselves focusing on what our children need to know in terms of facts and figures, but it’s essential to step back and consider the bigger picture. What are
