S5E103: Finding Freedom Within Structure with Kelly Edwards

Homeschool and Unschool Q&A Are you considering taking this homeschooling or unschooling path but you've come to a standstill? Are you having doubts about your ability to homeschool or a lack of confidence in unschooling?  How do you juggle homeschool and work? What about working full time? How can we best support reading and writing skills?  I invited a few of my homeschool mama friends to join me on this Homeschool and Unschool Q&A episode. Liana Francisco is a grown Unschooler that now Unschools her son. She is a multi-passionate entrepreneur who was unschooled from birth to 16 when she started college full time. She is 40 years old, so she was unschooled way back in the day when you still got the evil eye from the mail man and grocery store clerks. Liana Francisco has a vegan wholesale food business, a consulting business, and a YouTube channel where she teaches moms with young kids how to make plant-based eating EASY with a system. She also teaches moms how to hack homemaking for more freedom AND an organized family. Kelly Edwards is the creator of the 90-Minute School Day. The 90-Minute School Day method connects children with learning in their natural environment: at home with their family.  Kelly is passionate about home education, connecting families through attachment, learning as a lifestyle and helping children (and parents) identify their purpose.  Kelly is entering her 9th year as a homeschool mom. She lives in the Shenandoah Valley of WV with her husband and 3 girls ages 13, 6, and 3.  She is a licensed foster parent, successful entrepreneur, and community citizen.  She uses her personal and professional experience to guide the homeschooling parent with a framework and system to overcome the overwhelm that affects each of us.  You can learn more about her by visiting www.90minuteschoolday.com or follow her on Instagram at @90minuteschoolday. In This Episode- We Came For You-And Your Questions This episode is dedicated to answering your questions. Although we did not get to all of the questions, we did our best answering and offering examples, and sharing our personal experiences. Our answers reflected our lives in neurodiversity, infancy to adulthood, homeschooling and unschooling. These are the questions we answered: 1. My kids don't engage in reading...how could I support him to feel confident to start?  2. My son learns skills, for example, reading when it becomes useful to him. I worry that he may not find a need to write because everything is typed these days. Should I worry?  3. How do you handle doubting yourself? I started out a Charlotte Mason purist a few years ago and found your podcast and unschooling 2 years ago. Have been loving and seeing so much growth and curiosity but I find myself wondering if I'm doing enough and fall back into doing structured Charlotte Mason when I feel in doubt. Any tips on staying confident in unschooling?  4. I want to homeschool my 4 kids (9,7,5,3) but I don't feel like the smartest person. Now it is fine, but later?  5. I have a 1 year old but I'm already thinking about homeschooling plans. Currently going back to work; worried if I'll be able to sustain that goal when the time comes if I'm still working full time.  Resources You can connect with Liana, Kelly and I each week in our online community on the Clubhouse app-Honey! I'm Homeschooling Learn more about our annual spring homeschool summit~ How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler Connect with Kelly on her website www.90minuteschoolday.com or Instagram @90minuteschoolday Learn more about Kelly's lifestyle approach to education in this episode- Finding Freedom Within Structure. You can connect with Liana on Instagram ~ @liana_francisco You Tube- @HomeschoolMomLife Her website~ https://www.lianafrancisco.com/ If you want to hear more of Liana’s story, then check out the first interview we ever did on this show~ Growing Up Unschooled. A Word From Our Sponsor Sponsor support allows me to continue to create this podcast and allow it to be easily accessible for you.  This episode was brought to you by MEL Science.  MEL Science MEL Science is a subscription service that offers a range of educational resources and hands-on experiments for homeschooling families. From chemistry to physics, medicine to STEM, MEL Science subscription boxes are packed full of exciting experiments and activities that will inspire and educate. These boxes are a perfect way to give homeschooling kids a practice with the hands-on boxes and get them involved in science activities. With MEL Science, you’ll get all the materials needed for each experiment, including detailed instructions and educational materials that explain the scientific concepts behind each experiment. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to teach science, MEL Science is a great choice. Don’t forget to take advantage of the 60% discount for your first box, and start exploring the fascinating world of science with MEL Science today. USE CODE MEL60 At CHECKOUTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Impacts of Technology on Learning The world of learning today looks a lot different from the learning world that I grew up in. When my kids were younger they loved the story I told of a memorable day in my first grade class when my teacher rolled a large machine into our classroom. As we sat there in silence, she announced that the contraption she had brought in was called a.... computer! And the entire class would get a chance to use it. You can imagine our excitement. The computer produced questions on the screen and we each took turns typing the answers. It was the first and only time we had access to a computer that year and for years to come. By the time I was in junior high school we had computer labs and classes using computers. By high school I even ventured to take a rudimentary programming class.  Fast forward to today and my home educated children can travel to countries they are interested in visiting via Virtual Reality.  They can take a University level class from an Ivy League school from the couch, for free.  They can get help refining their resume through a chat generative pre-trained transformer.  They can learn a new skill or technique for an infinite number of things via YouTube. They have access to the world at their finger tips.   Technology has brought major shifts in learning.  Should we be excited about what the future holds for our learners?  Will homeschoolers and unschoolers have more access to opportunities previously held by education gatekeepers?  Do our technological tools bring dangers that we should be wary of?  How can we best support and protect our children from pitfalls? Or do we need to? How can we create and foster educational programs and environments that will prepare our children for the future?  In This Episode- Technology, Digital Learning and Impacts on Learners In this episode I spoke with Josh Davidson. Josh is a dad and founder of an award winning online learning program, Night Zookeeper. As the Managing Director of a digital platform that services families and in particular kids under the age of 12, I wanted to hear his insight on the influence of technology and digital learning on education, the job market and the future.  Technology has brought major shifts in learning. We explored a few of those shifts and shared our ideas on the good and bad. Should we be excited about what the future holds for our learners?  Do our technological tools bring dangers that we should be wary of?  How can we best support or protect our children from dangers? Or do we need to? How can we create and foster educational programs and environments that will prepare our children for the future?  What impacts will technology and Artificial Intelligence have on the job market?  I enjoyed Josh's viewpoint on technology and how it is shaping our future. His perspective is uplifting and pragmatic. He offers a good reminder that we are all really seeking solutions to problems. And as much as sometimes we may be drawn to worry about the bad, there is still a lot of good that we are contributing to the world. Resources Josh Davidson is the Founder and Managing Director of Night Zookeeper, the award-winning online language arts program designed to make learning fantastically fun for children ages 6-12. With a dedication to improving online education over the past 12 years, Josh has brought enthusiasm and passion to the field of education, offering an exciting learning experience beyond the confines of traditional classrooms. Josh's pioneering spirit emerged during his MA in Digital Art, making him one of the trailblazers in the United Kingdom for this field of study. Leveraging his creative expertise, he has elevated online learning to new heights through Night Zookeeper. Every aspect of this innovative program reflects his commitment to fostering children's creativity, encouraging them to unleash their imagination by designing their own imaginative animals within an interactive world that ignites a love for reading and writing. At the forefront of innovation and growth, Josh and the Night Zookeeper team have continuously pushed the boundaries of online education. Embracing the ever-evolving landscape of technology, they have seamlessly integrated cutting-edge solutions to keep up with the dynamic trends shaping the thriving world of technology and education. As a result, Night Zookeeper has emerged as a pioneer in its field, providing adaptable solutions that redefine the learning experience for children worldwide and encourages children to have fun whilst learning. If you would like to learn more about the platform and program, go HERE.  Josh referenced author Daniel Pink. https://www.danpink.com/I referenced Dr. Peter Gray and his work on the importance of kids playing modern day tools mentioned in his book Free To Learn. Thank You To Our Sponsor Sponsor support allows me to continue to create this podcast and allow it to be easily accessible for you.  This episode was brought to you by MEL Science.  MEL Science MEL Science is a subscription service that offers a range of educational resources and hands-on experiments for homeschooling families. From chemistry to physics, medicine to STEM, MEL Science subscription boxes are packed full of exciting experiments and activities that will inspire and educate. These boxes are a perfect way to give homeschooling kids a practice with the hands-on boxes and get them involved in science activities. With MEL Science, you’ll get all the materials needed for each experiment, including detailed instructions and educational materials that explain the scientific concepts behind each experiment. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to teach science, MEL Science is a great choice. Don’t forget to take advantage of the 60% discount for your first box, and start exploring the fascinating world of science with MEL Science today. USE CODE MEL60 At CHECKOUTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overcoming Fears and Doubts Homeschooling fears got you down? Parenting doubts keeping you paralyzed? Does the worry and fear wear you down?  Erica Kesilman joined me on this episode to talk about the fears and doubts we face as homeschoolers and parents and how we can overcome them.  Erica helps parents grow strong family relationships without yelling, guilt or overwhelm. She utilizes trauma-sensitive, somatic, body-centered therapies for nervous system healing of complex developmental, psychological, neurological, or emotional challenges so you can realize inner security, safety, and optimal health and wellness. She does this through workshops, group programs or one-on-ones.  She has over 20 years of experience working with families in a wide range of capacities. Erica holds two M.Ed. degrees in Educational Administrations & Leadership, a B.A. in Clinical Psychology with Certifications in Trauma Coaching, Conscious Parenting, Somatic Attachment Therapies, EFT and Breathwork.  She is a homeschooling mom to 3.  In This Episode In this episode Erica shares her own experiences of the fear of imperfections. From the classroom to unschooling wasn't as easy for her as you may think. Just because Erica has the education credentials doesn't mean it was a breeze. She's been working through the demands of perfectionism. Demands that compromised what is most important to her- the integrity of the relationship with her kids. We talk about: The fear of imperfections and making mistakes and what to do when we were never modelled that for ourselves. How we can begin to go through the repair process with our kids Looking at how our child responds and how you respond when there is challenging behaviour Focusing on the "glimmers" Building in academics by working with the child Creating rhythms or patterns that can build the skills  Inner Resources Soft Structure Conscious Parenting Going from automatic to intentional Self Forgiveness Practice Resources To Share If you would like to connect with Erica you can find her at https://ericakesilman.com/ Instagram @erica_kesilman  Facebook  Mentioned in the episode Peter Gray Book- Free To Learn Listen to my interview with Dr. Peter Gray HERE.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Unschooling Journey- From Childhood To Adulthood with Missy Willis Missy is a mom to two, writer, and self-directed education advocate.  As a trained teacher, she imagined a life devoted to traditional education, but in 2007 she moved away from the standardized schooling model with her own kids and hasn’t looked back.    Let ‘em go Barefoot is the community and podcast she created to share stories, insights and research on conscious parenting and education. Her work has reached hundreds of thousands of people across the globe. What has emerged is a felt sense that we are in the midst of a Great Educational Awakening.   Missy is currently collaborating with another veteran unschooling mom, Ann Hansen of Inner Parent Coaching, to create a supportive community for the next generation of unschooling parents.    A foundational principle of their work is: The Future of Education is not in the Classroom   Find out more or to get involved at www.letemgobarefoot.com or on Instagram @letemgobarefoot  In This Episode This is the second time Missy has been featured on my podcast. (She has also co-hosted excellent conversations in my Homeschool Club)  I wanted to bring her back on the show to hear her perspective on unschooling through the years. Her oldest is now an adult and her youngest is in her teens. (I suggest you listen to her first interview to hear more about her background in education and their unschooling beginning).  In this episode we explored the many layers of unschooling, learning and parenting.  Peaceful Parenting and open communication in unschooling  How she has has approached academics in unschooling What helped their family to continue unschooling in the later years- getting clear on the why  Recognizing the ups and downs and the challenges Unschooling into Post Secondary- creating portfolios, dual enrolment, college entry and career tracks Building experiences, adventures and engaging with the world The research- Self Determination Theory: Autonomy, Competence and Relatedness  Resources You can reach Missy through Let Em Go Barefoot on social media and her website.  Website- Let Em Go Barefoot Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/letemgobarefoot Instagram- Instagram @letemgobarefoot  Self Determination Theory If you would like to hear additional conversations with Missy, I recommend her first interview- Conscious Educator. Or, her recorded Honey! I’m Homeschooling Co-Hosted Conversations- Veteran Unschooling Moms Q&A, and Conscious Parenting & Deschooling.  For Support on your homeschooling and Unschooling journey join my Honey! I’m Homeschooling Patreon Community. Or connect with me One-On-One HERE.  Thank you Sponsors Sponsor support allows me to continue to create this podcast and allow it to be easily accessible for you.  This episode was brought to you by MEL Science.  MEL Science MEL Science is a subscription service that offers a range of educational resources and hands-on experiments for homeschooling families. From chemistry to physics, medicine to STEM, MEL Science subscription boxes are packed full of exciting experiments and activities that will inspire and educate. These boxes are a perfect way to give homeschooling kids a practice with the hands-on boxes and get them involved in science activities. With MEL Science, you’ll get all the materials needed for each experiment, including detailed instructions and educational materials that explain the scientific concepts behind each experiment. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to teach science, MEL Science is a great choice. Don’t forget to take advantage of the 60% discount for your first box, and start exploring the fascinating world of science with MEL Science today. USE CODE MEL60 At CHECKOUTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This community conversation was all about risk taking.  My friends Kelly Edwards and Tira Hunter joined me to lead this this community conversation on the importance of allowing our kids (and teens) to take risks and what that looks like in our lives. In This Episode Kelly Edwards is the founder of the 90 Minute School Day. She is a homeschooling mom to her 3 daughters, ages 15, 8 and 5. Tira Hunter unschooled her daughter Zoi who is now grown, runs a business and is a mom to Zoi, a professional artist. This conversation brought our community of parents that come from different backgrounds, places, ages, races and circumstances to share their ideas, and ask questions.  Here's what we explored in this conversation: What is risk taking? Risky play- the benefits, examples and balancing safety  Risk taking at different ages Trust- the element that makes risk okay Parent Fears Why are some parents more risk-adverse?  Tools, knives, guns and independent experiences Risk and Race And let's not forget, risk taking in choosing to homeschool! Resources We shared some fantastic resources- podcasts, books and articles throughout this discussion. Books Teen Mind, Teen Brain-What Parents Need To Know To Survive The Adolescent Years by Dr. Ron Clavier Free To Learn- Why Unleashing The Instinct To Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self Reliant, and Better Students For Life by Dr. Peter Gray Articles and Research The Nature Of Things- Risky Play For Children- Why We Should Let Kids Go Outside And Then Get Out Of The Way National Library of Medicine- Risky Play and Children's Safety: Balancing Priorities For Optimal Child Development outsideplay.ca -Helping Caregivers and Educators Gain The Confidence and Skills To Support Children's Outdoor Play Podcast Episodes Free To Learn with Dr. Peter Gray Supporting Passions and Unschooling To Adulthood with Tira and Zoi Hunter Finding Freedom Within Structure with Kelly Edwards Supporting Passions and Unschooling in the Teen Years  Homeschooling Support Join Our Community   One on One Coaching Support Clubhouse Community  OUR SPONSORS Sponsor support allows me to continue to create this podcast and allow it to be easily accessible for you.  This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success Codes and MEL Science.  Fearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the ‘right’ environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.    *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.com Watch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.live MEL Science MEL Science is a subscription service that offers a range of educational resources and hands-on experiments for homeschooling families. From chemistry to physics, medicine to STEM, MEL Science subscription boxes are packed full of exciting experiments and activities that will inspire and educate. These boxes are a perfect way to give homeschooling kids a practice with the hands-on boxes and get them involved in science activities. With MEL Science, you’ll get all the materials needed for each experiment, including detailed instructions and educational materials that explain the scientific concepts behind each experiment. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to teach science, MEL Science is a great choice. Don’t forget to take advantage of the 60% discount for your first box, and start exploring the fascinating world of science with MEL Science today. USE CODE MEL60 At CHECKOUTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evgenia is a homeschooling mama of one boy and the founder of Fit Mama Method. She was born in the Soviet Union and lived in Russia until 29 years old. She holds 2 Master Degrees in Journalism and Sports. Evgenia came to Canada to complete a college program and decided to stay. She was the head coach of an Acrobatic Gymnastics Program and a personal trainer until she decided to stay home with her son.  Evgenia is a homeschool mom and entrepreneur. Her Nourished Motherhood Program has helped many homeschooling mamas to beat burn-out with a holistic approach to wellbeing, motherhood and homeschooling.  In This Episode​ Often, my podcast interviews offer perspective into different points of view, circumstances and the rest of the world. It can be easy to live our life and assume that everyone shares similar thoughts, ideals and circumstances. But that is not always the case. I personally enjoy hearing the stories from others that have grown up and lived a learning life quite different from my own, or the one that I know. It gives me a better understanding of the world.  In this episode Evgenia shares about life growing up in the Soviet Union and how that reflects on childhood and parenting. What does a life shaped by living behind the Iron Curtain look like? We talked about: The school system (a day in the life of the school day, and class in the Soviet Union) Raising children (the expectations on both kids and parents)  Family and community purpose (How differently they varied from life in the western world today) Homeschooling  This was a wonderful discussion on not only how we are shaped, but the changes that we go through in our lives that begin to change our world, values and parenting. And of course...lead us to homeschooling. Resources Connect with Evgenia on her website- fitmamamethod.com Instagram- @fit.mama.method If you want to learn more about getting started in homeschooling, listen to my episode 7 Steps To Begin Homeschooling Thank you Sponsors Sponsor support allows me to continue to create this podcast and allow it to be easily accessible for you.  This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success Codes and MEL Science.  Fearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the ‘right’ environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.    *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.com Watch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.live MEL Science MEL Science is a subscription service that offers a range of educational resources and hands-on experiments for homeschooling families. From chemistry to physics, medicine to STEM, MEL Science subscription boxes are packed full of exciting experiments and activities that will inspire and educate. These boxes are a perfect way to give homeschooling kids a practice with the hands-on boxes and get them involved in science activities. With MEL Science, you'll get all the materials needed for each experiment, including detailed instructions and educational materials that explain the scientific concepts behind each experiment. If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to teach science, MEL Science is a great choice. Don't forget to take advantage of the 60% discount for your first box, and start exploring the fascinating world of science with MEL Science today. USE CODE MEL60 At CHECKOUTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Do You Know If Online Learning Is The Right Option?  Technology has become a powerful tool in learning, transforming education in numerous ways. It has increased access to education, information and resources. Learning opportunities are now, quite literally, right at our finger tips.  Technology has not only increased our access to information, but it has also broadened our access to where and how we want to learn and who we choose to learn with.  One format that has grown is online learning. It seems like at if we are looking for a class, or school, most likely we can find an online class that will teach it. But with all of this choice now on offer, how can we know if we are choosing right? How do you know if online learning is the right option?  Invited 2 experienced educators in the online learning space to explore this question with me. Anjilee Ferguson and Sara Busalacchi have over a decade of experience in online learning, working in the field since its inception.  They have a passion for helping students succeed which led them to co-found Mountain Point Academy, an online school for grades 6-12.  Their mission is to help provide students with a personalized approach to online learning, with 1:1 support for students to find joy in learning and citizenship.   In This Episode Anjilee and Sara take the time to answer my questions about online learning. How do you know if online learning is the right learning option? How do you find out of the online learning option aligns with your needs and values? What options are available?  How can we best support our kids in their online learning experience? What are points to look for when choosing an online learning community?  Can online learning be relationship based?  What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous learning?  Resources Connect with Mountain Point Academy onInstagram: @mtnpointacademy Facebook: Mountain Point Academy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/40950537  If you aren’t sure if online learning is a good fit for you, you can schedule a FREE consultation call to talk with the Mountain Point Academy team: www.mountainpointacademy.com/letschat  If you would like to learn about other alternative programs, both in person and online, listen to these episodes~Village Home Learning Community  CoLearn~Bridging Unconventional Education Approaches Podcast Sponsor This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success Codes Fearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the ‘right’ environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.    *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.com Watch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.liveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Free To Learn and PLAY with Dr. Peter Gray Peter Gray is an American psychologist, author and research professor. He has conducted and published research in neuroendocrinology, developmental psychology, anthropology, and education. His research focuses on the role of play in human evolution and how children educate themselves, through play and exploration, when they are free to do so. He has expanded on these ideas in his book, Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life (Basic Books). He has been a regular contributor to Psychology Today magazine and is a founding member and president of the nonprofit Alliance for Self-Directed Education (ASDE) and a founding board director of the nonprofit Let Grow.  He earned his undergraduate degree at Columbia College and Ph.D. in biological sciences at the Rockefeller University many years ago. His own current play includes kayaking, long-distance bicycling, backwoods skiing, and vegetable gardening.  In This Episode: The Importance Of Free Play​ This episode is a re-release of an earlier episode with Peter Gray. (episode 47)  It is such a wonderful and important discussion that I want to make sure it stays accessible.  In this episode we talk about:  The importance of FREE PLAY Self Directed Learning and the key parts of the self directed learning environment The lack of free play in our world today and what the absence of it has led to Parents Fears around self directed education Resources Research studies: https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/experts/peter-gray-phd Observational study Jay Feldman https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED453128 Study of Grown Unschoolers https://www.psychologytoday.com/sites/default/files/Published%20Grown%20Unschoolers%20I.pdf https://www.psychologytoday.com/sites/default/files/Published%20Grown%20Unschooles%20II.pdf Brian Sutton Smith Play Scholar Play Theory Democratic Schools Sudbury Valley School Peter Gray’s Book Free To Learn: Why Unleashing The Instinct To Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students For Life Alliance For Self Directed Education Let Grow Project Podcast Sponsor This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success Codes Fearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the ‘right’ environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.    *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.com Watch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.live How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler~ March 24th 2023 Grab your FREE or Full Access Pass ticket (only $37) ~ HOW TO BE AN AWESOME HOMESCHOOLER The summit is open to all since we are hosting it as an audio only experience on the Clubhouse app. But if you register for your FREE TICKET through the website you also receive our Digital Swag Bag that gives you a ton of resource freebies for parents and kids (like my son’s Science Animal Journal, Kelly Edwards Creating Quiet Time packet, Free Conscious Parenting mini course, Discounts on our favourite books, Kids Entrepreneurship Course, Discounts to online resources and MORE.  If you cannot make the live event, we are also offering a FULL ACCESS package of the recordings, pdfs and post summit community gatherings which include a Movie Screening~ The amazing film MaidenTrip~ and Live Group Q&A and Coaching with Kelly Edwards of 90 Minute School Day and I.  We are able to create this summit and make it accessible because of our wonderful Sponsors. Night ZooKeeper, Learning Success Academy, Erica Kesilman~Conscious Parent Coach, Mel Science, Storitopia, Amanda Schenkenberger~ Homeschool Coach, Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids podcast and 90 Minute School Day. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Unschooling Affected My Life: Liana Francisco Has anyone ever said to you that this whole idea of Unschooling does not end well? That kids will never be self directed? That there is no evidence that self directed learning actually works?  Have they listened to my podcast? Have the heard the interviews I and countless others have shared? Well, here is more to add to the list. This is part of a series I am exploring on grown homeschoolers and Self Directed Teens.  In This Episode~ Living As If School Doesn't Exist This episode is filled with so much insight and information on growing up without school, without any of the expectations of school. Liana shares what it was like living as if school doesn't exist. Liana Francisco is a grown Unschooler that now Unschools her son. She is a multi-passionate entrepreneur who was unschooled from birth to 16 when she started college full time. She is 40 years old, so she was unschooled way back in the day when you still got the evil eye from the mail man and grocery store clerks. Liana has a vegan wholesale food business, a consulting business, and a YouTube channel where she teaches moms with young kids how to make plant-based eating EASY with a system. She also teaches moms how to hack homemaking for more freedom AND an organized family. Liana also shares important advice for parents that are considering this path or are uncertain about unschooling as their children grow older.  We talked about: Creating Environments That Are Right For Learning How Did They Learn To Read Without Direct Instruction? The Order Of Natural Learning (heads up- it doesn't resemble the order of school based learning) How Will Unschoolers Succeed If Their Life Never Resembles School?  Does Hard Work, Independence and Study Skills Happen With Unschooling?  The Unreal Expectations Of Unschooling Resources You can connect with Liana on Instagram ~ @liana_francisco You Tube- @HomeschoolMomLife Clubhouse~ https://www.clubhouse.com/@lianafrancisco Her website~ https://www.lianafrancisco.com/ If you want to hear more of Liana's story, then check out the first interview we ever did on this show~ Growing Up Unschooled. I also recommend these other interviews; Amanda Schenkenberger~How Homeschooling Affected My Life, To Adulthood with Sue Patterson and Play, Purpose and Unschooling.  Book Mentioned: The Power Of Now ~ Eckhart Tolle How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler Summit March 24th is our third How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler Summit!  We are hosting this full day summit LIVE and our special guests are bringing the Powerful P’s to the table through interactive keynotes and workshops~ PURPOSE. PERSIST. PLAY.  We have Leah Boden laying the foundation for PURPOSE. Julie Bogart showing the art of PERSIST.  Mr. Chazz is educating us all on the power of PLAY.  Kelly Edwards is guiding us through her workshop on Supporting Neurodiversity. And you get ME, Robyn Roberston and a few special guests embracing the Self Directed Teen.  Go to the website HOW TO BE AN AWESOME HOMESCHOOLER to register for your FREE ticket and receive extra goodies. (Extra Goodies like our Digital Swag Bag that gives you resource freebies for parents and kids (like my son's Science Animal Journal, Kelly Edwards Creating Quiet Time packet, Free Conscious Parenting mini course, Discounts on our favourite books, Kids Entrepreneurship Course, Discounts to online resources and MORE) If you cannot make the live event, we are also offering a package of the recordings, pdfs and post summit community gatherings which include a Movie Watch Party and Live Group Q&A and Coaching with Kelly Edwards of 90 Minute School Day and I.  We are able to create this summit and make it accessible because of our wonderful Sponsors. Night ZooKeeper, Learning Success Academy, Erica Kesilman~Conscious Parent Coach, Storitopia, Amanda Schenkenberger~ Homeschool Coach, Honey! I'm Homeschooling The Kids podcast and 90 Minute School Day.  Thank you To Our Podcast Sponsors This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success Codes Fearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the ‘right’ environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.    *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.com Watch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.liveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Homeschooling Affected My Life with Amanda Schenkenberger Amanda Schenkenberger is a grown homeschooler that now homeschools her own 4 children. She is also a homeschool coach and mentor to moms that are busy trying to find more joy and less anxiety in homeschooling. You can connect with Amanda and access her support through her website, moms.heartsmarthomeschool.com You can also connect with her through Instagram @homeschoolcoachingmama In this episode Amanda took time out to share her reflections, triumphs and struggles through homeschooling.  "How homeschooling affected my life and how it translated to her homeschool now." In This Episode with Amanda I often get the question, this seems great for a few years when they are young, but how do homeschoolers really turn out over the long run? What about: Socialization? How Will They Live In The "Real World" If They Are Never Told What To Do? What Will They Learn If They Don't Go To School? If They Do Go To School, Won't They Be Too Far Behind?  In this episode Amanda answers these questions and talks about how her experiences have shaped her as an adult. She shares the strengths; the work ethic that she built even though her life was filled with a large amount of play and freedom. Amanda shares the notable experiences that question what we think are set parameters of learning; like learning how to read from her deaf parent. And the life shifts that brought change; her homeschooling days coming to an end as her parents went through a divorce. As well as how she prepared going to school for the first time ever.  If you are a parent that is curious about homeschooling, or are questioning what your homeschool choice will turn out to look like, then listen to this episode.  Resources and Connection Amanda has chosen to continue to homeschool her own children. She also runs a business that support others homeschool moms through coaching and community. She understands that Homeschooling can be a beautiful, joy-filled experience—or it can be a stressful, overwhelming routine. That's why she created Heart Smart Moms. You can connect with Amanda and access her support through her website, moms.heartsmarthomeschool.com You can also connect with her through Instagram @homeschoolcoachingmama Heart Smart Homeschool Moms is also a sponsor for HOW TO BE AN AWESOME HOMESCHOOLER Summit! We are grateful for the sponsors that help our summit to happen and remain accessible to the community.  If you would like to hear more stories from grown homeschoolers and unschoolers, then check out my episode with Hannah Frankman, Liana Francisco and Zoi Hunter How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler Summit If you haven't already heard, March 24th is our third How To Be An Awesome Homeschooler Summit!  We are hosting this full day summit LIVE and our special guests are bringing the Powerful P's to the table through interactive keynotes and workshops~ PURPOSE. PERSIST. PLAY.  We have Leah Boden laying the foundation for PURPOSE. Julie Bogart showing the art of PERSIST.  Mr. Chazz is educating us all on the power of PLAY.  Kelly Edwards is guiding us through her workshop on Supporting Neurodiversity. And you get ME, Robyn Roberston and a few special guests embracing the Self Directed Teen.  Go to the website HOW TO BE AN AWESOME HOMESCHOOLER to register for your FREE ticket and receive extra goodies. If you cannot make the live event, we are also offering a package of the recordings, pdfs and post event community goodies.  Shout Out To Our Podcast Sponsors! This episode was brought to you by Fearless Learners by Success CodesFearless Learners by SuccessCodes;Where all children can learn and grow fearless with a Learning Success Coach by their side. Their certified Learning Success coaches make learning easy with their proven holistic coaching methodology which is a unique and superior alternative to tutoring and teaching in all subjects.All of their coaches are certified teachers as well as certified Learning Success Coaches, who have left the school system to create the 'right' environment to provide customized and personalized learning experiences.   *Kohila is offering a FREE 45 minute clarity coaching call to Honey! I’m Homeschooling The Kids listeners. Just go to learningsuccessacademy.comWatch From Fear To Fearless, Kohila’s weekly show on Wednesday, 11am Pacific Time at fearlesslearners.live  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.