Homeschool Made Simple

341: Essential Reading About Motherhood and the Value of Home

When you have preschoolers, you start to think about your family culture and how to nurture your children’s inner curiosity. In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares eight thoughtful books that touch on family culture, the value of present parents, attachment, simplicity parenting, getting out in nature, childhood development, and reading aloud. These books offer encouragement and practical how-to’s for building a peaceful home and a lifelong love of learning. 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 Unplugged Children Bundle

340: Why Homeschool Through High School With The Francis' Family

It’s nice to hear parents say they’re actually enjoying homeschooling their high schoolers, isn’t it?! Today, we continue our conversation with the Francis family and focus on the high school years. Doors have opened to deeper conversations, stronger relationships, and important opportunities to foster what makes each of their teenagers unique. This episode is especially for parents who are wondering whether to continue homeschooling through the teen years, with practical insight into helping children explore their interests and prepare for what comes next. 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: Pick up a copy of Church History for Everyone at your favorite bookstore or click the link to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Crossway Church History for Everyone

339: Stepping Out in Faith to Homeschool Their 7 Children- The Francis' Story

What happens when a family leaves traditional schooling to build a gospel-centered homeschool? In part one of our two-episode conversation, we explore the Francis family’s journey from private Christian school to homeschooling their seven children across a wide range of ages. They wanted more room for creativity, to let each child learn at their own pace, and to foster their kids' love of the outdoors despite the financial challenges of becoming a single-income family. Following the Lord’s leading into homeschooling has been a blessing! 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 CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible Mentioned in this episode: Crossway 10 Questions Series

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338: Writing the Story God Already Began: Betsy Hake’s Story (Part 2)

In part 2 of our episode from the archive, we continue hearing from Missionary Betsy Hake. The conversation explores healing, leadership, and God’s work through the Jericho ministry in Honduras. Betsy shares how her illness led to deeper surrender, honest reflection, and a willingness to empower gifted leaders. She also tells the remarkable story behind her book, The Road to Jericho, and offers practical encouragement for sharing the gospel with confidence. If you’d like to hear more from Betsy, check out episodes 17 and 18, where Carole interviewed her back in 2020 about her ministry, Jericho Ministries. Click HERE to donate books for Carole’s upcoming trip to Honduras. RESOURCES +The Road to Jericho: Setting the Captives Free from Anglican House Publishers +Click here to learn more about Jericho Ministries +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: Pick up a copy of Escape From Rome at your favorite bookstore or click the link to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Crossway Escape From Rome

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337: What Is God’s Purpose in My Suffering? Betsy Hake’s Story (Part 1)

Suffering and pain can be such a challenge in our lives. How do we approach the Lord when we face this? In this episode from our archive, Betsy Hake of Jericho Ministries shares how her trust in the Lord was strengthened through cancer treatments and God’s financial provision to pay for them. The little miracles along the way were signposts that God was using it for His purposes. Her daily reliance on the Lord will be sure to encourage you in your faith! If you’d like to hear more from Betsy, check out episodes 17 and 18, where Carole interviewed her back in 2020 about her ministry, Jericho Ministries. Click HERE to donate books for Carole’s upcoming trip to Honduras for Jericho Ministries. RESOURCES +Click here to learn more about Jericho Ministries +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: Pick up a copy of New Morning Mercies for Kids at your favorite bookstore or click the link to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Crossway New Morning Mercies for Kids: 60 Devotions to Focus on Jesus

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336: What’s on the Nightstand? Books and Authors Carole Is Reading Right Now

We haven’t heard what Carole has been reading in quite some time! She shares what she’s reading, including Irish fiction, a biography about Audrey Hepburn, Christian nonfiction, and books she enjoys with her grandchildren. She discusses books like This Is Happiness, The Anxious Generation, Shaking the Nickel Bush, and The End of the Affair, with reflections on family reading, faith, resilience, grace, and meaningful literature. Join us for inspiration to kickstart your personal reading library! 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: Pick up a copy of this parenting book wherever books are sold, or visit Crossway.org to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Crossway Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family

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335: Why Homeschool Freedoms Are So Important with an HSLDA Lawyer

What gives parents the right to homeschool, and are those rights permanent? The discussion today with HSLDA Lawyer Amy Buchmeyer explores the legal history of homeschooling, recent threats to our homeschooling freedom, and simple ways families can get involved. Learn how to check your state’s requirements, track legislation, and get support through HSLDA. Join us to learn why advocating for homeschooling matters for all of us! RESOURCES +HSLDA Homeschooling 101 +Homeschool Laws By State +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: Pick up a copy of Stories Woven in Silver at your favorite bookstore or click the link to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Crossway Stories Woven in Silver: Pointing Kids to the Gospel Through Children's Literature

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334: How Homeschooling Cultivated a Lifelong Love of History with Kendyll Keene

History is everywhere, but children don’t have to learn it as a dry timeline. Rachel’s conversation with Kendyll Keene offers a thoughtful look at homeschooling with history through stories, museums, historical fiction, family traditions, and the experiences of ordinary people. Kendyll’s shares why she loves history so deeply and they talk about historical nuance, asking better questions, considering multiple perspectives, recognizing bias, and introducing difficult subjects without overwhelming young children. Kendyll’s perspective on what homeschooling has developed in her is sure to inspire everyone who listens! 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: Pick up a copy of The Sing! Hymnal, Personal Edition at your favorite bookstore or click the link to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Crossway The Sing! Hymnal, Personal Edition: A Treasury of 200 Hymns for Worship and Reflection

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333: The Sweet Gift of Growing Up Together With Kendyll Keene

What does a homeschool graduate appreciate about their upbringing? Rachel Winchester sits down with Kendall Keene’s to hear about her experiences being homeschooled from third grade through high school. Homeschooling gave her freedom to pursue ballet, teaching, reading, cooking, and travel while allowing her siblings to develop their own interests. Kendall describes how daily life together strengthened her family relationships and how her family’s adoption of her brother, Gabe, from Rwanda shaped her empathy and led her to study history in college. 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! RESOURCES CONNECT Homeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest EPISODE LINKS Nat Theo Podcast Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible 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. Crossway For The Bible Tells Me So

332: Creating a Joyful Home Atmosphere Through Words of Blessing, Part 2

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: Crossway Lives of Faith and Grace Series

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331: Creating Margins So Homeschooling Works for Real Life-Part 1

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

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330: How to Build a Homeschool Mom’s Reading Life

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

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329: Meaningful Reads and Real Conversations From the ‘Well-Read Mom’ Experience

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

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328: Ways to Foster a Love of Music in Your Family

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

327: Fostering a Love of Art in Our Children

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

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326: Handwriting Made Simple: Why Waiting to Write Works Wonders

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

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325: Math Made Simple: Games, Manipulatives, and Curriculum Tips for Homeschoolers

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

324: Why Psalty the Singing Songbook Belongs in Every Family’s Toolbox

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

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323: How to Quiet Outside Voices and Trust This Homeschool Path

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

322: Finding a Fresh Perspective About Homeschooling Brings Life

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