Homeschool Made Simple

Do you want your child to develop a love of art? This episode from the archive shares doable ways to make art a natural part of your homeschool routine. The discussion explores how to spot good art, some must-have book picks, and why quality matters—even when you’re on a budget. Learn about resources from classic children’s art books to tips for visiting museums and setting up a creative space at home. The key the...

You know we say “better late than early” in our method. In this episode, Carole and Rachel focus on why it’s actually better to delay formal handwriting work, especially for boys, and how following your child’s developmental cues can make learning much more enjoyable. One concept discussed was using fun, hands-on activities and a simple, artistic approach, like the Getty-Dubay Italic method, to build writing...

Not sure how to make math work in your homeschool? This episode is packed with down-to-earth advice for keeping math simple, not starting too early, and helping your kids enjoy it! Several points were raised, including using games and daily routines to build math skills naturally, plus an honest look at popular programs like CTC Math and Right Start Math. If you want your kids to love math—and you want less stress—this ...

Psalty has been a staple in some Christian families for decades. Carole and Rachel discuss the depth that the Psalty albums provide for growing our children’s faith for the long haul. They discuss the themes in each album and other music that have shaped JJ and her grandchildren. They talk about practical ways that encourage kids to reach for Psalty. Your young child will be enchanted by Psalty, so join us to hear all about i...

In part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with homeschool mom of 4, Hanni Go shares her journey of breaking free from the pressure of following other homeschooling families. She has chosen to value relationships and nurturing her children over the academic rigor that others might expect. Carole’s proven teaching methods and the example of the many families who have used them have encouraged Hanni to ditch the comparison trap t...

In this episode from the archive, Rachel Winchester talks with Hanni Go, a homeschooling mom of 4, about searching for a fresh homeschool perspective that helped revitalize their family dynamic.

Hanni talks us through the balancing act between nurturing relationships and academic pursuits. Though it took some time for her to fully buy into the Homeschool Made Simple method, she now sees the benefit of grounding herself in a research...

In the second part of our conversation with Lovely Bits Magazine writer and homeschool mom, Nicole Brignolle, we discuss the value of curiosity, connecting with local history, and seeing beauty in everyday life—not just chasing big, expensive adventures. We discuss the importance of rereading trusted classics, resisting performance-driven schooling, and nurturing each child’s uniqueness. Plus, we unpacked how centering ...

In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful mindset shifts around your hom...

In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well-being. Join us!

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We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 years of homeschooling under Che...

Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!

The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provide...

Part 1 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!

The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provide...

How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for resiliency and persevera...

Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enriching. She reviews a variety of ...

Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David also shares the idea of educating "...

Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningful family traditions—even as ...

Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren.

Other topics they discuss:

+ investing time in the early years for spiritual development

+ m...

In part one of this special three-part series, Carole Joy Seid sits down with her longtime friend and author, Dr. William Sears, a leading voice in attachment parenting. They discuss the science and heart behind attachment—from the earliest days in the womb to toddlerhood and beyond. Learn how talking, singing, and even humming to your unborn child lays a foundation for lifelong bonding, and why practices like "the golden hou...

Today, in part two of Rachel’s conversation with seasoned homeschool parents, Jason and Bre Kemp unpack the real-life strategies behind managing their family of 7. You’ll hear how they prioritize meaningful family dinners, find community both inside and outside the homeschool world, and intentionally build lasting memories through serving and working together. Perfect for parents seeking practical guidance on homeschool...