In this episode I offer an argument for why you need to build a library of paper books for your family. I also discuss the pros and cons of paper books versus e-books, share the science which shows it is better to teach children to read later rather than sooner, and suggest ways to inspire reluctant readers.

Learning to effectively express yourself is an important tool. I discuss why creativity matters and creative ways to encourage writing.

Education is much more than bookwork. Rather than forget that science or history lesson, because you are strapped for time, teach your children to do science, history or even math by studying and engaging in play and activities which teach them real life lessons.

I thought our hike up a mountain would be a simple exercise in family bonding and physical exertion. But God had bigger plans. 

I learned to find beauty and meaning by being attentive to the present moment. And I discovered the strategy for turning a difficult challenge into a litany of gratitude.

The dinner table is a place where bodies, minds and souls should be fed. End the meal-time battles and fussy-eater syndrome with a few simple Rules for the Table. 

This broadcast was previously recorded for Homeschool Lifeline on Radio Maria. In it I discuss the lessons that I've learned in my journey from novice parent to becoming an empty nester.

While the younger half of my 8 children still have me in the daily trenches of home schooling/parenting, I have also begun to experience those changes which result from adult children moving on.

This program includes the 5 Do and Don't that I would tell my younger self. I discuss what is really important and what isn't worth your worrying. I also remind parents that good input is not a guarantee of netting good results. The prodigal son and his brother had the same father, but their choices weren't the same. Lastly, I consider what comes next after we've succeeded in educating and graduating our children. Are home school mothers always expected to enter the workforce outside of the home when they finish home schooling? 

Savor every minute with your home schooling students because the time when they are little definitely ends too soon.

While accompanying my son at his college orientation, I met the deacon in charge of campus ministry. We’d chatted for a few minutes when he disclosed that he is the father of 6 and they home school. Naturally, I shared that we’re a big homeschooling family, too. Then I asked the next logical question, “What curriculum do you use?” 

After a few fumbled attempts to construct an answer, he smiled and admitted that he didn’t actually know. His wife, he explained, was in charge of the schooling. 

Is Homeschooling Woman’s Work?

This talk, which was previously broadcast on The Home School Lifeline on Radio Maria, answer that question and offers some valuable insight on the ways in which a father's role is critical in the home school household.

This talk was original broadcast on Home School Lifeline on Radio Maria. In it, I discuss why "Consistency, Creativity and Flexibility" is my home school motto and why it should be yours, too.