RLL #241: Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons

In this week's episode of the podcast, we're talking with Rachel Figg, a trailblazer in the homeschooling world and the creator of Spark Schooling. As homeschooling parents, we recognize some challenges come with teaching children at home. This conversation focuses on sparkschooling, a novel approach to learning designed to ignite curiosity and engage students more deeply by integrating art, music, physical education, and STEM into daily learning activities. The heart of sparkschooling lies in its curiosity-driven approach, tailoring learning to align with a child’s natural interests. Rachel explains how Spark Schooling integrates non-traditional methods like using buckets and kitchen utensils to teach musical rhythms, or video classes for varied subjects to cater to diverse learning preferences and paces. This method not only respects each child’s learning journey but also fosters a supportive environment where learning is associated with joy and discovery rather than pressure and memorization. Key Takeaways: Curiosity-Driven Learning: Rachel Figg emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity in children as a fundamental aspect of sparkschooling. This approach encourages students to pursue their own interests and questions, leading to deeper engagement and understanding.   Integrating Creative and Analytical Learning: Both Rachel and Colleen discuss the importance of combining left and right brain activities—such as art and STEM—into homeschooling to develop both creative and analytical skills in children, enhancing overall learning and problem-solving abilities.   Hands-On Experiences: The episode highlights the significance of hands-on learning experiences, like the real-life application of physics concepts in a homeschooling with horses class to understand inertia. This method helps cement knowledge through practical application.   Resource Accessibility: Sparkschooling is likened to a Netflix-like library where children can choose from a variety of activities based on their interests, all available in a simple, self-paced format. This accessibility makes learning adaptable and tailored to each child's pace and interests.   Higher-Level Thinking Skills: The discussion underlines the need to focus on developing higher-level thinking skills from an early age, moving beyond basic knowledge to analyzing, evaluating, and creating. This prepares children for complex problem-solving and independent thinking.   Low-Pressure Learning Environment: The sparkschooling program is designed to create a low-pressure, non-judgmental learning environment that encourages exploration and reduces the fear of failure, enabling children to explore new subjects and discover their passions.   Simple Integration of Diverse Subjects: Rachel suggests practical ways to integrate diverse subjects like music, art, physical education, and STEM into daily homeschool routines to ensure a holistic education that keeps children engaged and promotes well-rounded development.   Encouraging Physical Education: Physical activities are highlighted as crucial for children's education, not just for physical health but also for teaching persistence, coordination, and critical thinking through physical challenges.   Engaging and Fun Learning Activities: The episode emphasizes the importance of making learning fun and engaging through activities like using kitchen utensils as drumsticks to learn musical rhythm, which helps sustain children's interest and enthusiasm for learning.   Following Children's Natural Curiosities: Both host and guest stress the need for parents to pay attention to and nurture their children's natural curiosities, as this will lead to more meaningful and self-motivated learning, making education a joy rather than a chore.   Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math   Links and Resources from Today's Show Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Spark Schooling HUB Join The Hands-on Homeschool Virtual Enrichment Program  Free Gift: Sample Classes | Spark Schooling (The Hands-on Homeschool) RLL #94: The Importance of Music with Jessica Peresta  Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment Awesome Art Additions  Embracing Art and Its History for Kids With Sensory Issues  How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich Sneaking In Summer Learning  Make a Paper Plate Maze STEM Challenge  Real-Life Science Mysteries Book Connect with Rachel Check out Rachel’s website at https://sparkschooling.com/You can find Rachel  @TheHandsOnHomeschool onInstagram or Facebook with the handle @thehandsonhomeschool Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/

In the latest episode, we dive into the fascinating world of puzzles and their role in fostering lifelong learning. Eric Berlin, a renowned puzzle maker and author, shares his experiences with puzzles in educational settings and their impact on child development. Eric discusses the integration of puzzle-solving into educational curricula. He shares a time when his daughter, influenced by puzzle video games, designed video game levels herself, showcasing how such engagement can foster a practical understanding of complex concepts like coding and design. Key Takeaways: Foster Critical Thinking: Puzzles encourage critical thinking and creativity, essential skills in today’s rapidly changing world.   Tech-Savvy Learning: Incorporating puzzle video games can promote visual thinking and problem-solving skills among children.   Community Collaboration: Participating in community puzzle events can build teamwork and social skills. Find Eric and his engaging puzzle books at puzzlesnacks.com and ericberlin.com. Connect with him on social platforms for more puzzle fun! Whether you’re a parent, educator, or puzzle enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into making learning a playful and engaging journey. Tune in to discover more Links and Resources from Episode 242: Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin Puzzlesnacks by Book by Eric Berlin Free Gift: Puzzlesnacks Sampler Ever So Logical | PuzzleNation.com Blog Creative Thinking Activities for Kids  How to Encourage Innovative Thinking in Your Kids  Raising Problem Solvers One Person Logic Games that Rock  The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega  Giving Your Child Life Skills | Metacognition Connect with Eric To try out Eric’s puzzles click over to Puzzle Snacks: http://www.puzzlesnacks.comYou can find Eric  @puzzlesnacks Instagram or Facebook with the handle @puzzlesnacks

As the days grow longer and the flowers bloom, it's the perfect moment to refresh your homeschool approach and cater to the bright energy of the season. On this episode of the podcast, we dive into the art of embracing change and the beauty of flexible learning environments. Colleen, an advocate for shaping education around a child’s needs and curiosity, guides you through the perks of adjusting your homeschool routine to sync with spring's lively vibe.   Key Takeaways from the Episode:   Flexibility is Your Superpower: Harness the adaptability that homeschooling offers. Shift learning times to enjoy the splendid spring weather, and don't shy away from eclectic approaches to fit your family's unique rhythm.   Create Unforgettable Stories: Prioritize shared family experiences and connection. Whether it's "just because we can days" or diving into a "bucket list of mini adventures," these moments foster not just learning, but lifelong memories.   Embrace Your Homeschool Journey: There’s no one-size-fits-all in education; tailor your teaching style and schedule to what resonates with your family—Colleen's insights can guide you on this personalized path. From combating the infamous mid-year slump with spontaneous outings to leveraging Colleen's extensive experience in homeschooling, the episode is packed with gems that will revitalize your educational outlook. Tune in for the full episode on changing things up in your homeschool routine, accessing exclusive resources, and joining a community that uplifts and inspires. Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math Links and Resources from Today's Episode: Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Masterclass | Building Family Connections - Raising Lifelong Learners Masterclass | Raising Resilient Families How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich  RLL #43: Getting Your Kids Outside with Justin Wren  Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith  Growing Gardens with Kids (includes free printable garden journal)  Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool Navigating Summer Learning With Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids  5 Things to Do on Your Next Nature Walk A Week of Epic Backyard Nature Science Fun | Summer Camp at Home  Backyard Nature Activities for Kids  Create the Best Homeschool for Your Family  Adventuring Together: How to Create Connections and Make Lasting Memories with Your Kids: Eskridge, Greta - needs affiliate link 100 Backyard Activities That Are the Dirtiest, Coolest, Creepy-Crawliest Ever by Colleen Kessler M.Ed. Hands-On Ecology Book by Colleen Kessler M.Ed. Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!

This week, we welcome the inspirational Samantha Shank to the show. From blogging as a teen to becoming a digital nomad, Samantha's journey is a testament to the power of homeschooling and following one's passions. Here's what this can't-miss episode holds in store for you: - Discover Samantha's transition from stifled student to a flourishing creative mind, and how homeschooling played a pivotal role in her personal growth and professional success. - Gain insights into the ways Samantha's childhood interests in subjects ranging from Hebrew to history blossomed into invaluable skills for her travels and career. - Embrace the beauty of imperfection to help combat perfectionism in learners of all ages. - Explore the virtues of adaptability and resilience as we dive deep into the importance of these skills in our constantly evolving world. In this enlightening conversation, we offer practical strategies to help you guide your child through the lifelong learning journey with curiosity, courage, and joy. Remember, teaching kids about resilience, the normalization of failure, and the power of the "yet" mindset can make a world of difference. This episode is a gentle reminder of how embracing the learning process, including its ups and downs, can pave the way to a fulfilling life. Don't let your child miss out on the opportunity to thrive in an ever-changing environment. Tune in to this episode and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life, not just in the classroom. Links and Resources from Today's Show Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Masterclass | Raising Resilient Families What Does A Gifted Homeschool Graduate Really Think About Homeschooling?  The Need for Flexibility When Teaching Your Gifted Kids  Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool  RLL #103: Entrepreneurial Mindset with Brian Weisfeld  Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence 10 Things I Love About Homeschooling: A Gifted Kid’s Perspective  Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith  Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning  Homeschooling High School Isn't Something to Fear RLL 34 Ginny Kochis: Cultivating Critical Thinkers  The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega  Idiom Matching Game - Raising Lifelong Learners Connect with Samantha Learn more at: https://learnincolor.com Find Samantha on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest with the handle @learnincolor Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!  

In this week's episode, Colleen dives into the world of collaborative learning and how it can transform your homeschooling experience. Listen to gain insight into creating a dynamic, engaged, and cooperative learning environment right in your home. Key Takeaways: Collaboration Empowers: Discover ways to implement co-ops, community projects, and family initiatives that develop skills like cooperation, problem-solving, and critical thinking.   Shared Learning, Shared Growth: Learn how rotating leadership roles and involving the entire family can create rich educational experiences that go beyond the traditional curriculum.   Unleashing Potential: Understand the high value of tailoring education to your child's unique needs, fostering a love for learning that prepares them for a complex, interconnected future. For any homeschooler looking to elevate their child's learning journey and unlock the full potential of their educational experience, tune in to this inspiring episode. Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math  Links and Resources from Today’s Show Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Finding Your Community as a Neurodivergent Family  Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person  Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling  Building Social-Emotional Skills While Helping Others Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse Kids Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team  Free Solar Eclipse STEM Printable for Your Homeschool RLL 22: Finding a Homeschool Co-op and Creating Killer Classes | A Listener Question  Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids Science Buddies Electronics Kit for Arduino Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!

In the latest episode of the podcast, we chat about a skill that often leaves even the most adept homeschooling parents in search of guidance: handwriting. Sarah Collins, our favorite occupational therapist with a homeschooling background and a love for nurturing writing skills in children, unpacks the multifaceted journey of handwriting, from the initial scribbles to fluent cursive. Key Takeaways From This Episode Include: Encouraging fine motor skills in everyday play. Understanding and leveraging technology to support writing. Instilling self-advocacy in your learners. The vital role of grip strength and motor control in writing. Strategies for boosting endurance without causing burnout.   ✍️ Actionable Insights for Your Homeschooling Adventure The episode is more than a mere dialogue. It’s a treasure trove of actionable tips and heartwarming humor (don’t miss the part about being “raised by wolves”!).   📚 Resource Roundup We’ve heard your calls for resources, and Sarah Collins doesn’t disappoint. From fine motor screeners to grip-strengthening exercises, we provide a rich landscape of free resources and proven curriculums tailored to your individual learner’s needs.   👂 Listen and Learn Ready to demystify handwriting hurdles? Tune in to this inspiring session with Sarah Collins.   Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math Links and Resources from Today’s Show: Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Homeschool OT with Sarah Collins The OT is IN Podcast Join the OT is IN Membership! Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins Coping with Stress | Supporting Kids and Teens Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs The OT is IN - Understanding the Role of Vision in Your Child's Learning Journey The OT is IN - Visual Pathways to Learning: Harnessing Nature and Vision in Homeschooling  The OT is IN - Understanding the Power of Form Drawing: A Parent's Guide to Waldorf Education Handwriting Motor Skill Assessment Connect with Sarah Collins Website: Homeschool OT You can also find Sarah on Instagram @HomeschoolOT Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!

In This Episode: As homeschoolers and parents, we often find ourselves juggling the demands of educating our children, managing our professional lives, and maintaining personal well-being. It's a balancing act that calls for solid boundaries. In the latest RLL episode, Colleen dives into the art of setting and adapting these vital limits. Take a listen to insights stemming from her own recent hiatus and the deeper exploration of boundaries in homeschooling environments:   Key takeaways from this episode include: Setting Boundaries: Learn the significance of establishing boundaries to maintain a healthy balance between homeschooling, work, and family life. Managing Time: Get inspired by Colleen's personal journey towards better time management and organization, which is especially crucial for parents with neurodivergent children. Modeling Healthy Behavior: Discover the importance of teaching our children to set their own boundaries and prioritize, a skill essential for lifelong success.   Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper   Links and Resources from Today's Show: Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Finding Homeschool Balance  Masterclass | Prioritizing Self-Care  Dear Mom With Quirky Kids: You Cannot Do it All  Self-Compassion for a Healthier Mindset | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell  Finding Energy to Balance it All  Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling  My Neurodivergent Kiddo Needs So Much Help…  Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life - NEEDS AFFILIATE LINK Masterclass | Building Family Connections  Finding Peace in a Life Filled with Intensity  Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids   Connect with ColleenWebsite: Raising Lifelong LearnersYou can also find Colleen on Instagram or on Facebook How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz - https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/  

In this episode: With her new book Homeschool Rising, Christy is here to deconstruct the myths surrounding the conventional educational system and to advocate for a tailored, flexible approach to teaching our kids at home. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a veteran, Christy's story—from her professional background working with affluent families in Los Angeles to her decision to homeschool her own children, including twins, prior to the global pandemic—will resonate with you. From her classical education inclination to embracing the philosophies of Charlotte Mason and unschooling, Christy's journey is a testament to finding what truly works for your family. We'll dive into her unique ideas, explore why big box curricula may not be the one-size-fits-all solution, and discuss the irony of the socialization debate. For any parent grappling with the idea that only trained teachers can effectively educate our kids, or struggling to advocate for a child with special needs, this episode offers deep insights and compassionate encouragement. So, let's dispel the misconceptions, embrace the unique needs of each child, and discover together how to be confident in raising lifelong learners. Stay tuned for a fascinating conversation with Christy Faith.   Key takeaways from this episode include: Parents Are Natural Educators: Data and experience support the idea that parents, regardless of professional training, are highly suited to homeschool due to their instinctive understanding of their children's needs.   Flexible Approach is Key: Integrating various homeschool styles—classical education, Charlotte Mason, interest-led, and unschooling—can create a custom-fit curriculum that respects the individuality and pace of each learner.   Child Advocacy and Customization: Homeschooling offers unparalleled opportunities for child advocacy, allowing education to be tailored precisely to each child's developmental and learning style, which is often unachievable in traditional school settings.   Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper Links and Resources from Today's Show Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners New Release! Homeschool Rising: Shattering Myths, Finding Courage, and Opting Out of the School System by Christy Faith The Christy Faith Show Podcast Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Christy Faith - Homeschool and Educational Expert Homeschooling Middle School Using Your Own Interest-Based Curriculum Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling Building Our Own Curriculum – Why it’s Easier Than Buying Boxed Homeschool Curriculum Choices Create the Best Homeschool for Your Family Taking An Eclectic Approach To Homeschooling Your Gifted Child Homeschooling and Public Schooling | Differentiating for Your Own Kids RLL #80: Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School? with Blake Boles RLL #97: (Facebook Live) Empowering Kids Through Homeschool Buy-In    Connect with ChristyWebsite: https://christy-faith.com/You can also find Christy on Instagram or on Facebook   Connect with ColleenWebsite: Raising Lifelong LearnersYou can also find Colleen on Instagram or on Facebook How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz - https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/  

In This Episode: We discuss the importance of foundational skills while still leaving room for our kids to pursue their passions. We'll talk about balancing the digital with the tangible and how technology can be a powerful tool that complements our children's learning styles. Are you worried about too much screen time? Well, you're not alone. Colleen shares her own struggle with her son's screen habits and how choosing the right tools—like a mini Sphero or coding kits—can transform screen time into an educational experience that prepares them for the future. We'll also delve into the versatility of homeschooling curriculums and how to tailor learning to fit your child. Colleen will take you through her approach to organizing her family's physical space to encourage curiosity and hands-on exploration, while also acknowledging the beautiful mess that homeschooling can sometimes be. Whether you're reading with your kids, picking out the right educational app, or seeking that elusive balance between clutter and order, we've got you covered. And for those of you feeling the weight of taking on the homeschooling journey, remember, you are capable, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Plus, stay tuned for details on how to preorder my new book, "The Homeschool Advantage," where I dive even deeper into these topics and offer strategies for fostering that love of learning. So grab your notes, get cozy, this is Raising Lifelong Learners, and we're about to create a learning-rich oasis right in your own home.   🔑 Key Takeaways: A tailored learning experience is pivotal. Incorporating foundational skills with the freedom to explore personal interests helps in raising engaged and self-directed learners. Technology, when used mindfully, can enhance learning. It’s about empowering kids to create with tech, not just consume it. The environment matters. A home that invites curiosity and discovery paves the way for children to imbibe a genuine love for learning.   💫 Sponsors for this episode: CTC Math  and Night Zookeeper 💫 Links and Resources from Today's Episode Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Unit Studies - Raising Lifelong Learners Books - Raising Lifelong Learners Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment  Cultivating a Learning-Rich Environment  The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids  Nurturing a Strength-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling  Making Homeschool Fun for Early Learners Benefits of Keeping It Playful With Teens  Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning  Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests Every Book List You Will Ever Need For Your Homeschool!   Connect with Colleen ⭐️ Instagram ⭐️ Facebook ⭐️ Twitter ⭐️ How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz And Find Out Now https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/