Global Homeschool Minute

Join host Shelly Stockton with guests Eugene Huang (Taiwan) and Ingrid Brandt (Brazil) as they share how Christmas is celebrated in their cultures. From Brazil's summer festivities to Taiwan's unique blend of traditions, discover how homeschool families around the world observe this special holiday, concluding with Luke 2 read in three languages.

In this episode, host Shelly Stockton talks with Jill Neiss from Home Life Academy (HLA). They discuss HLA's support for homeschooling families worldwide through services like transcripts, diplomas, and legal advocacy, especially in countries with restrictive homeschooling laws. Jill shares HLA's mission to empower parents and promote homeschooling globally, with a focus on community and compliance with local regulations.

Join host Shelly Stockton, a seasoned homeschooling mom of 25 years, as she explores the world of homeschooling with  Michelle Bertrand, a homeschooling veteran from British Columbia, Canada, with 22 years of experience (10 years in Classical Conversations). Michelle shares her unexpected journey into homeschooling and the power of mentorship. Together they discuss 15 essential skills for effective teaching and learning: * Five Core Habits * Five Common Topics * Five Canons of Rhetoric Michelle shares real-life examples of applying these skills in homeschooling and the importance of teaching children how to think rather than what to think.  Discover how to simplify your teaching approach, engage your children in meaningful learning, and cultivate critical thinking skills. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your homeschooling experience. Tune in to learn how to "do less things better" and embrace the art of learning alongside your children!

"In this episode of the Global Homeschool Minute podcast, host Shelly Stockton interviews Emily and Travis, a homeschooling couple from Nova Scotia, Canada. They share their inspiring journey of homeschooling through significant hardships, including Travis's brain tumor diagnosis and surgery, as well as Emily's job loss due to vaccine mandates. Despite these challenges, the couple discusses how their faith in God and commitment to homeschooling has strengthened their family. They explain their approach to education, emphasizing critical thinking, biblical worldview, and fostering a love of learning in their three young children. Emily and Travis offer encouragement to other homeschooling families facing difficulties, stressing the importance of trusting in God, surrounding oneself with supportive community, and remembering that God equips those He calls to homeschool. Their story is one of perseverance, faith, and finding joy in the midst of trials. This heartfelt conversation provides valuable insights and inspiration for homeschooling parents, especially those navigating challenging circumstances while educating their children."

How did Classical Conversations homeschooling programs get their start and why? What was the idea behind its programs and community based method? Join us on the Global Homeschool Minute podcast for an inspiring episode featuring Leigh Bortins, the founder of Classical Conversations. You'll discover how this innovative homeschooling program grew from a small gathering of 11 families to a global movement spanning 59 countries. Leigh shares her journey of pioneering this comprehensive classical Christian education program, from Challenge for high schoolers to Foundations for younger children. Leigh also discusses the challenges she faced and recommends key resources for those interested in classical Christian education. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, looking to start a Classical Conversations community, or simply curious about alternative education methods, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Despite the fact that socialism and communism threaten to interfere with the freedom to homeschool, an increasing number of families across South America are choosing a classical Christian education for their children. In some remote regions, families have started homeschooling alone, but grown to be leaders of a community experiencing growth. They are a testimony to the strength and courage of Christian parents pursuing a better education for their children. Join us for the July episode of Global Homeschool Minute for Jennifer Martin's conversation with Koreen Mazurek, Country Coordinator of Spanish South America and Daniela Cordovez of Chile. Learn about the blessings and challenges of homeschooling in their regions. Koreen and Daniela share inspiring stories of Classical Conversations families homeschooling in spite of the persecution and uncertainty in turbulent times.

This month on the podcast, we hear from Chloe Turner in Canada, and Timothy Bell in the United Kingdom, both Classical Conversations graduates, about their experience in Classical Conversations. Our host, Jennifer Martin, invites them to share what they love about the CC Challenge programs, their favorite strands, and how the skills they acquired in their education are a benefit and preparation for their futures. Their stories include challenges they experienced, along with encouragement to other students of Classical Conversations. Homeschool parents and students alike will be encouraged to hear these students testify to growth through their challenges, and how their parents helped them make the most of their education.

In just 5 years, Classical Conversations in Brazil has grown to over 6,000 students. You'll be inspired as you listen to Jennifer Martin's conversation with Diane Ellis, the Country Coordinator of CC Brazil. In this episode they dive into Brazil's path to rapid growth, complete with all the joys and challenges of, as Diane puts it, "building an airplane in the air". Diane shares from the heart encouraging thoughts about planning, hard work, trusting in the Lord, her desires for the homeschooling families of Brazil, and how you can pray for our CC family there. You won't want to miss this episode!    

This month's episode of the Global Homeschool Minute Podcast covers the topic of testing, promising to be very informative and helpful for homeschooling families. Noah Tyler tells us about the Classic Learning Test (CLT), offering an alternative to more traditional college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT, as well as testing for elementary aged students. For homeschooling parents, having access to a standardized assessment like the CLT, can provide assurance that their children are learning and progressing academically. Additionally, the emphasis on truth, goodness, and beauty aligns well with a homeschooling philosophy focused on knowledge and virtue. Noah Tyler's insights into the CLT and its acceptance across the United States and globally are valuable for parents who are considering alternative testing options or simply want to learn more about testing in the context of homeschooling.   CLTExam.com

In this month's episode of the Global Homeschool Minute Podcast, listeners are treated to a fly-over of Hungary with Emese Tolgyez-Busz, a lawyer, homeschooling parent and advocate with GHEX. Emese's work involves engaging in outreach efforts aimed at promoting home education and advocating for educational freedom in Hungary. As a parent herself, Emese shares her personal journey of homeschooling her children, highlighting the joy of learning together and the numerous benefits of hands-on educational experiences. Despite the ever-changing and unpredictable legislative landscape, which presents challenges for families interested in homeschooling, Emese remains hopeful and committed to her advocacy efforts. Through Emese's story, our listeners will gain insight into both the rewards and obstacles of homeschooling in Hungary, as well as the ongoing fight for educational freedom in the face of legislative uncertainty. Her dedication and resilience serve as an inspiration to homeschooling families everywhere.