The Power of Intentions!

Welcome to the new year! Today is January 7th. Still going strong with your resolutions for the year? It’s a common occurrence that many people break their New Year’s resolutions shortly after making them. Statistics suggest that only a fraction, anywhere between 8% and 28%, actually manage to keep their resolutions. As homeschool parents, our resolutions often revolve around our children, which can add an extra layer of stress. That’s why today, I’d like to introduce a different approach. Rather than setting resolutions, consider embracing intentions for the year ahead.  I also share what MY intention is for the year and how and why to get your kids involved.

Enjoy!

Read more

Preparing for the Careers of the Future

Navigating the uncharted waters of the future can be a daunting task, especially for homeschooling parents. The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and it often feels like we’re preparing our children for a destination that remains hidden in the fog of uncertainty. In these turbulent times, how can we equip our kids with the skills and knowledge they need when the very landscape of tomorrow remains elusive?

It’s true; the subjects we diligently teach and the experiences we curate for our children might not align perfectly with the demands of future employers. But perhaps therein lies the beauty of homeschooling – the ability to foster a holistic, adaptable, and forward-thinking education.

In this age of rapid change, memorizing facts and figures alone won’t suffice. Instead, we must cultivate in our children a love for learning, a hunger for exploration, and a resilience that enables them to tackle the unknown with confidence. By nurturing these essential qualities, we empower our children to not only adapt to the shifting tides of the job market but to become architects of their own destinies.

Consider this: the skills needed in the future job market may not be limited to traditional subjects. Tomorrow’s employers may prize creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence above all else. As homeschooling parents, we have the freedom to instill these attributes through a diverse range of educational experiences.

Interesting in learning more?  Check out this week’s episode, where I share my research on the top 10 skills we should be teaching our kids to prepare them for the careers of the future!

Read more

The Positive Side of Taking Risks – and TEDx

My son and I attended a TEDx yesterday, and I found a theme running through most of the presentations – the importance of taking risks. Have you ever gone to a TEDx?  You’ve probably watched a TED talk on their website or on your TV.  They are on YouTube as well.  My favorite is the one by Sir Ken Robinson titled “Do Schools Kill Creativity?

But back to yesterday and the theme.  The presenters weren’t talking about education, but I could see how so much of what they shared was applicable to our lives as educators and parents.  There were some definitely genius connections made!

Listen in to hear about a few of the presentations and see how they can connect to your life!

Read more

Cherry Hughes – An Inspiration!

If you’ve ever attended one of my presentations, you’ll understand the central role my mother plays in my life. She isn’t just a parent; she’s my confidante, my mentor, and a great source of inspiration. Her influence on me is immeasurable, and the knowledge she has shared has formed the bedrock upon which I build my work. I genuinely appreciate her willingness to participate in this interview, as it allows me to share her wisdom and insight with a wider audience.

One of the most extraordinary aspects of my mother is her innate ability to connect with children. Kids are drawn to her like a magnet, and it’s not by chance. She possesses a unique gift for speaking to them in a way that makes them feel heard and valued. She takes the time to listen to their thoughts, dreams, and concerns, forging genuine connections that leave a lasting impact. It’s no surprise that children find in her not just a friend but a trusted mentor.

Read more

Dr. Phil Hickman – Filling the Holes in Education

I had the distinct privilege of interviewing Dr. Phil Hickman this week, which I consider a genuine honor. Given my dedication to homeschooling and my consistent message about the pressing issues within the public school system, it’s not often that I have the opportunity to converse with individuals with such extensive experience in that field. Dr. Hickman boasts a comprehensive background in academia, having fulfilled nearly every role imaginable, ranging from a teacher’s assistant to an advisor to the federal government!

Read more

Audrey Rindlisbacher – The Power of Living Your Mission

Audrey Rindlisbacher is a woman who has lived a life of purpose and passion. Her journey began with a realization that she was not the only one feeling unfulfilled. She discovered that many people had a limited understanding of their gifts and talents and were not living up to their full potential. This realization led her to explore ways to help people discover their uniqueness and find ways to use it to make important contributions in the world.

As Audrey started on this journey, she became passionate about helping people live more principle-centered lives based on universal truths. She believes that the truth sets people free, and she is determined to help them find that truth. Through her work, Audrey has developed programs that focus on living a more principle-centered life while discovering and embracing one’s uniqueness. These programs have helped countless individuals to identify their strengths and talents, overcome their limitations, and create a life of purpose and passion.

Read more

Vickie Amerine – Advocating for Our Kids

I had the pleasure of chatting with Vickie Amerine,  where she shared her journey from being an advocate for her special needs daughter to becoming an educator who changed the school system in her district. I highly recommend that you listen to this episode, as Vickie’s story is truly inspiring.

When Vickie’s daughter was diagnosed with special needs, she quickly realized that she needed to become her daughter’s advocate. She had to learn how to navigate the complex world of special education, and it was a challenge to get her daughter the support she needed. But Vickie didn’t give up. She knew that her daughter deserved the best education possible, and she was determined to make it happen.

Read more

Holly Armstrong – Giving Our Children Wings

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Holly Armstrong, the founder of Wings 4 the Gifted, on my podcast. Holly is a true advocate for gifted children, and her inspiring journey has led her to create a company that coaches, instructs, and advocates for parents of gifted learners, including twice-exceptional learners. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, a Master’s Degree in Gifted Curriculum and Instruction, and a Ph.D. in General Psychology with an emphasis on Cognition and Instruction, Holly’s expertise in the field of gifted education is truly impressive. She shares ideas that will inspire every parent!

Read more

Tatiana Fallon – A Homeschooled Homeschooler and Leadership Education

My time in school was a rocky road. I was picked on and harassed, and not all of my teachers were stellar. Honestly, I regret not having been homeschooled instead. But in this week’s episode, I had a chance to sit down and chat with Tatiana Fallon, who, at the ripe age of five, decided never to go back to school again. She was homeschooled and now homeschools her own four children. With her personal experience in overcoming dyslexia, she has valuable insights into helping others do the same. Plus, she shares her expertise in Leadership Education and a whole lot more. Don’t miss this one!

Read more

Michelle DeKeyser – Support for the Mamas

As parents and educators, our lives revolve around our kids.  That isn’t a bad thing… unless we get lost along the way.  Michelle DeKeyser helps moms find their way.  One of the things I love about this episode is the realization Michelle shares about how her son is benefitting from her realizing her genius.  Be sure to listen, subscribe, and share!

Read more