Practical Homeschool Strategies

Why Truth, Natural Law and Principles Are Foundational

According to Audrey Rindlisbacher This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Audrey Rindlisbacher on my podcast.  In a world full of uncertainty, changing opinions, cultural shifts, and so much noise — Audrey Rindlisbacher insists there is something firm to build your life on. She teaches that natural law, timeless principles, and truth are not […]

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Connecting Across Differences

In a recent podcast interview with Kathy Mellor, we explored some of the cultural forces shaping today’s world—ideas like Marxism, Postmodernism, and Wokeism. These worldviews affect the way people see truth, power, and identity, and they explain a lot about why conversations feel so polarized right now. But our conversation didn’t stop with just defining

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When Kids Resist: Turning Struggle Into Growth

Every homeschool mom faces it. Your child reacts by dragging their feet, complaining, or outright refusal. When this happens, it’s easy to feel like something is wrong—with your child, your plan, or maybe even with you. But here’s the truth: resistance is normal. It doesn’t mean homeschooling isn’t working. In fact, it’s often a powerful

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Lighten Up: Bringing More Play into Homeschool

Homeschooling always starts with such good intentions, doesn’t it? Fresh notebooks, color-coded schedules, detailed lesson plans—we launch into the year full of excitement and determination. And then, a few weeks in, reality sets in. Lessons take longer than we planned. The toddler interrupts. The teen rolls her eyes at the carefully prepared activity. Suddenly, the

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The Principle Approach: A Timeless Framework for Christ-Centered Learning

Have you ever wished for a way to teach your children that goes beyond academics—something that not only covers math, history, and science, but also shapes their hearts, minds, and character for life? That’s exactly what the Principle Approach offers. As an LDS mom and homeschool mama who has been deeply involved in Christ-centered homeschooling,

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7 Principles for a Wonder-Filled Summer

Turning Charlotte Mason’s “Never be within doors…” into real-life memories When the sun finally lingers past dinnertime, homeschool can feel like an either-or choice: keep the kids learning or let them roam barefoot and free. Good news—you don’t have to choose. By weaving a few light rhythms into your days, you can give your children

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Beyond Praise: How Appreciation Builds Identity, Character, and Lasting Motivation

What if the way we try to encourage our kids is actually doing the opposite? In our effort to boost confidence, we often say things like, “Good job!” or “You’re so smart!” But research—and timeless educational philosophy—shows that praise can create approval addiction, while appreciation builds resilience, motivation, and inner strength. Let’s unpack the powerful

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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 post is your roadmap to

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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 clean…” change it to “Let’s

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