#377 What Are Living Books? (And Why I Love Them)

How do you homeschool a kindergartener when you also have a preschooler, toddler, and baby who all need you?In this episode, I’m answering a listener’s question about what a typical homeschool day can look like when you have a house full of little kids. I’ll share what I would actually focus on at these ages, how I’d keep kindergarten and preschool simple, why I wouldn’t save school for nap time, and how I think about a daily rhythm instead of a strict schedule.If you’re trying to juggle lessons, naps, babies, toddlers, chores, and everything else that comes with this season, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I’m joined by my 22-year-old daughter to talk about something I think every parent wants: raising kids who grow into capable, independent adults.My daughter earned her Associate degree at 16 and has since lived all over the world, so I wanted you to hear her perspective on what actually helped her become independent and responsible.We share 3 things parents can do to help their kids take more ownership of their lives, make decisions, solve problems, and become more confident in their own abilities.Plus, this is just the beginning! My daughter will be joining me once a month to answer your questions and share what homeschooling and growing up in our family looked like from the kid’s perspective.

Wondering if your homeschooler is “on grade level”?In this episode, I answer a listener who recently pulled her 10-year-old twins out of public school and is wondering where in the world to start. Do you give placement tests? Look for learning gaps? Choose curriculum based on their age? Or, as she hilariously asks, just “wing it like a hippie”?We’re talking about how to figure out what your child actually needs without getting caught up in arbitrary grade levels, why I sometimes intentionally choose easier curriculum, and what to do when learning gets frustrating.I’ll also share my biggest advice for families transitioning out of public school.You're not going to want to miss this one!

Am I teaching enough? It's one of the most common questions homeschool parents ask—and one that can quickly lead to second-guessing, overwhelm, and comparison. In this episode, I answer a listener's question about whether she's covering enough subjects, how to know what's truly important, and why learning to trust yourself may be one of the greatest gifts you can give your homeschool.

Have you ever wondered what homeschoolers mean when they talk about "living books"? In this episode, I'll explain what living books are, why Charlotte Mason believed they were so important, and how they've completely changed the way I think about education. I'll also share some of my favorite historical fiction and nonfiction living books to help you get started and hopefully inspire your own love of history and lifelong learning.

Curious what our homeschool year will look like?In this episode, I'm giving you a behind-the-scenes look at exactly how we're planning our 2026–2027 homeschool year.If you're looking for ideas, encouragement, or just want to see what works for our family, you won't want to miss this episode!

Have you ever found yourself second-guessing your homeschool because of someone else's opinion? Maybe a family member questions your decision, your child mentions wanting to go to school, or another homeschool family decides to enroll their kids in public school. Suddenly, you're wondering if you're doing the right thing.In this episode, I'm sharing how to build real confidence as a homeschool parent, respond to criticism without losing your peace, help your children develop meaningful friendships, and stay rooted in your family's values—even when others question your choice to homeschool.

Is it too late to rebuild your relationship with your teen?No.If your teen is pulling away, listening more to friends than family, or making choices that worry you, don't lose hope.In this week's podcast, we talk about:❤️ Letting go of guilt.❤️ The power of apologizing.❤️ Why connection creates more influence than control.❤️ Simple ways to rebuild trust and strengthen your relationship.You can't change the past, but you can change how you show up today.🎧 Episode #374: Is It Too Late to Rebuild Your Relationship with Your Teen?

Does it ever feel like you and your husband aren't on the same page about homeschooling?You're not alone.In this week's episode, we're talking about how to navigate those conversations without becoming defensive or creating more conflict.We'll cover:✔️ Why many husbands suggest putting the kids back in school.✔️ How to share your desires instead of complaining.✔️ What to do when he wants a subject taught that you don't want to teach.✔️ How to honestly consider his feedback without taking it personally.The goal isn't to convince your husband you're right.The goal is to build a strong marriage while creating the best education for your children.🎧 Listen to Episode #373: When Your Husband Isn't Supportive of Homeschooling

When should you start homeschooling a toddler?One of the biggest misconceptions about homeschooling is that it starts with curriculum.It doesn't.At 18 months old, your child doesn't need worksheets or a structured school day. They need you.Read together. Go on nature walks. Let them help you cook, clean, and do life alongside you. Build good habits. Foster curiosity. Fill their days with books, meaningful work, and play.Your goal isn't to create an early reader.Your goal is to raise a child who loves learning.Listen to Episode #372: Homeschooling a Toddler? Start Here.