Homeschool Made Simple

Does the atmosphere in our home have a long-term impact on our children? In this episode from our archive, Mellany Zepelak continues the conversation with Carole Joy Seid about cultivating an encouraging atmosphere in the home through intentional words and actions. Parents play a powerful role in modeling kindness and blessing, which children then emulate among themselves. Children often view their parents as reflections of God, making a parent's words deeply significant. The discussion explores practical steps like apology, mindful presence, and creating a culture of grace. With effort and reliance on God, our families can build homes filled with peace, love, and welcome. Join us! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of resources mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible Mentioned in this episode: Lives of Faith and Grace Series from Crossway

Homeschooling and family life can drain the life out of us. How do we maintain a right attitude and perspective in our families for the long haul? In an episode from the archive, Carol talks with consulting client Mellany Zepelak about how learning to create margin in her life and receive God's love has transformed her family life. They discuss how adding personal downtime, encouraging a positive home environment, and embracing your identity in Christ can radically improve your family dynamics. Don’t miss this hope-filled conversation! RESOURCES + The Blessing Seminar + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

Rachel Winchester returns, joined by Kara Beck and Linda Sarna, in this episode to discuss the role of reading in their journeys as homeschooling moms. They share how their love of literature evolved through different seasons of motherhood and affirm the deep value that fiction and narrative hold in their personal growth. They get practical by sharing ways to choose books, whether through planning, themes, or simply following what feels right in the moment. One refreshing highlight is their mutual agreement on the concept of stress-free reading… Join us for this practical and encouraging conversation! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

In this episode, Rachel Winchester sits down with Kara Beck and Linda Sarna to discuss their experiences with being in a “Well-Read Mom” group. They discuss some of the highs and lows of the books they read this year from the theme “The Year of the Teacher.” To hear more about the concept of the Well-Read Mom book groups, listen to Episode 262. Between the snacks, good conversations, and lots of interesting and challenging books, these ladies share all the wonderful things they’ve gleaned from participating. Join us! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Donate to our homeschooling ministry Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

Do you want your kids to love music (and make joyful memories together)? In this episode from the archive, Carole shares relaxed and creative ways to add classical music to your homeschool—no stuffy lessons or stress required! This episode is chock-full of resources and easy tips for composer study, favorite books, sing-alongs, bible verses set to music, and a balanced idea of when to start formal lessons. With all these resources, you’ll be armed with lots of ideas to make music a natural, happy part of your home. RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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 theme: making art fun, meaningful, and totally doable for every family! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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 confidence. If you want practical tips on making handwriting—and homeschooling—simpler and happier, tune in and be encouraged! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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 episode will help you breathe easier and teach with confidence! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of curricula and tools mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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 it! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of albums mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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 to see her children be who God made them to be. RESOURCES +Download your own copy of the Truths to Remember list + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for 25% off your first month! Use code HOMESCHOOL25 Voetberg Music Academy

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-based philosophy of education. When Hanni needed a fresh perspective on homeschooling, she attended A Literature-Based Approach to Education seminar in Minnesota. Afterward, she wrote a list of truths to remember when she feels discouraged. Rachel and Hanni discuss her takeaways from that seminar. We know you will relate to Hanni, and we hope this gives you the fuel to press on! You’ll hear about: How Hanni handles difficult days A big age gap between kids When you feel burnt out in homeschooling The difference going to an HMS seminar made for Hanni Truths to remember when you feel burnt out RESOURCES + Download your own copy of Truths to Remember! + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy

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 God and beauty can inspire new projects, such as the Lovely Bits magazine, that blends faith and aesthetic excellence to uplift readers. Join us and enjoy! RESOURCES + Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto + Home Grown Kids and Better Late Than Early by Raymond and Dorothy Moore + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy

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 homeschool and your priorities. Plus, you’ll hear plenty of encouragement from your family without having to move to a foreign country! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy

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! RESOURCES + The Smart Health Plan: Five Steps to Lasting Health and Happiness for All Ages , By Dr Williams Sears + The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription:The Science-Proven Plan to Start at Any Age , By Vincent Fortanasce, M.D. + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10 Voetberg Music Academy

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 Chelsea’s belt, we hope this episode is a great encouragement to all who are walking the same path! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Learn More about CTCMath Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Family Worship

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 provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Both of the Clonts now recognize the importance of following this clear, consistent educational plan rather than “hybridizing” multiple methods, which can lead to overwhelm and a lack of cohesion. Join us! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Unplugged Children Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Family Worship

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 provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Anna discusses her initial doubt about homeschooling, the encouragement she received, and how her confidence grew as she saw positive results in her children. Join us! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, Arlo Takes Off, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 % off with a free Crossway Plus account. Arlo Takes Off

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 perseverance! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, For The Bible Tells Me So, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. For The Bible Tells Me So

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 books she’s read on American history—from foundational texts like "Land of Hope" and biographies of key figures, to novels and family read-alouds that bring historical periods to life. Join us! RESOURCES + Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS HMS Essentials Bundle Mentioned in this episode: Pick up the book, How Should We Then Live, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. How Should We Then Live?

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 "poet warriors"—children who are both disciplined and creative. A great episode for parents who want to be intentional guides in their children’s lives and to embrace a whole-person education! RESOURCES +Books mentioned: Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton Porter and Hold On to Your Kids by Gabor Maté and Gordon Neufeld + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education . +Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year! +Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid! CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Try CTCMath-Half Price Discount Mentioned in this episode: Pick up a copy of Don't Waste Your Life wherever books are sold or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Don't Waste Your Life