Homeschool Your Way

EPISODE 193 | Today’s episode is called “SPEAK UP,”and it’s one every parent will recognize. We’re talking about helping kids find their voice—whether that’s confidently chatting with adults, asking questions in unfamiliar settings, standing up for themselves, or eventually stepping intopublic speaking situations with courage. Host Janna Koch is joined by Dina Schmid, who bringspractical wisdom and real-life experience to the conversation as we explore how children can grow comfortable using their voice in different social situations. From everyday, low-pressure conversations to more formal moments whereconfidence really matters, we’ll talk about how these skills develop naturally—and how parents can gently support that growth without forcing it. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child speakclearly, confidently, and authentically in a world that asks them to communicate in so many different ways, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about raising kids who know when to speak up, how to speak well, and why their voice matters. ABOUT OUR GUEST | After transitioning from engineering tofollow her passion for teaching, Dina Schmid founded QueenCity Etiquette. In addition to holding certification from the prestigious American School of Protocol, she has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. She also has experience homeschooling, living overseas and is certified as a life coach. She uses her unique combination of skills to bring out the confident speaker she believes is inside of everyone no matter their background. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to info@bookshark.com. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 192 | In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we explore the power of intergenerational learning and how the wisdom, stories, and skills of different generations can enrich a child’s education. From grandparents sharing lived experiences to younger adults passing along fresh perspectives, we look at how a mix of ages creates a fuller, more meaningful learning environment. Discover practical ways to invite grandparents, neighbors, and family friends into your homeschool rhythm—and see how these connections can strengthen academics, spark curiosity, and build lifelong relationships. This episode celebrates the beautiful truth that learning doesn’t happen in isolation—it grows stronger when generations learn together. Here's a handy sheet to keep on hand. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, send an email to info@bookshark.com. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 191 | In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, host Janna Koch sits down with The Burned Out Educator to explore the world of educational choice—what it means, why it matters, and how it’s transforming the way families and teachers approach learning. Together, they discuss how educational choice resources empower educators and parents with flexibility, accessibility, and creativity in the classroom and at home. Listeners will gain insight into how educational choice supports personalized learning, encourages collaboration, and helps rekindle a passion for teaching and learning. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or an educator seeking fresh inspiration, this conversation offers practical ideas and renewed motivation to make education more open, engaging, and sustainable. ABOUT OUR GUEST | JOE MARINO In 2020, I experienced the highest highs and lowest lows of my career. I achieved my dream job—becoming a high school head coach after years as an assistant—but shortly after, a serious health scare forced me to make a difficult choice: continue in a career I loved or prioritize my life and well-being. Today, I’ve dedicated my work to helping educators reclaim their time and balance by providing ready-to-use, customizable lesson plans and classroom resources. My goal is to support teachers with tools for in-person, remote, and blended learning, credit recovery, special populations, test prep, and more—so they can focus on teaching, engaging students, and taking care of themselves. Teachers deserve a work-life balance, and I’m here to help make that possible. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, let us know . We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 190 | In this episode, author Chris Landry joins us to share the story behind his book Cajun Kids Adventures, a series inspired by his own family’s experiences. Chris opens up about how he weaves real-life lessons into his writing while also encouraging dads to play an active role in homeschooling. He offers practical advice on how fathers can make learning engaging and fun, while passing down life skills that today’s traditional classrooms often overlook. From outdoor adventures to hands-on projects, Chris shows how dads can enrich their children’s education—and enjoy the journey themselves. ABOUT OUR GUEST | C.P. Landry is a lifelong resident of South Louisiana and a descendant of the original French Acadians. His wife of over 40 years shares a similar heritage as the fifth generation to hunt and fish the Atchafalaya River Basin. Together, they raised their five children to respect both their heritage and their land. The Cajun Kids Adventures series is loosely based on the experiences, challenges and shenanigans of his children’s unique upbringing Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 189 | Welcome to Homeschool Your Way, the podcast that brings you practical tips, inspiring stories, and resources to customize your homeschool journey. Today we’re excited to welcome Robin DeMarco, who will share his expertise in physics and how to teach it in Physics You Can Do—an engaging approach that proves physics doesn’t have to be intimidating. From simple, hands-on experiments using everyday materials to real-world applications that connect science to daily life, Robin shows how families can bring energy, motion, and curiosity alive at the kitchen table. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler or just getting started, this conversation will give you fresh tools and inspiration to make physics both approachable and fun. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Robin Demarco has been an educator for over 35+ years. He had an early desire to know how things work. His experience spans the entire spectrum of schooling, culminating at the college level. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 188 | On this episode of Homeschool Your Way, we're joined by Dr. Colleen Kelley, a former University of Arizona chemistry professor and the visionary behind Kids Chemical Solutions. Dr. Kelley shares how her innovative comic book series—starring Poppy and Ray—makes complex chemistry concepts accessible and fun for kids ages 8 to 10. Her mission is to combat what she calls "molecular illiteracy," a widespread challenge that leaves many students unprepared for higher-level science. Tune in to discover how early molecular literacy can set the stage for future success in STEM and how homeschoolers can bring engaging, story-driven science into their learning journey. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Dr. Colleen Kelley Creating fun and accessible chemistry stories has been a labor of love for Colleen as a retired University of Arizona chemistry professor and author of a series of kid’s chemistry comic books. In 2023, the PBS short documentary, “Comic Book Chemistry” was awarded an Emmy. This documentary centered around Colleen’s vision, chemistry comic book series and her success with teaching college-level chemistry concepts to kids. This vision was then presented as a TEDx talk, “Molecular Literacy for Ages 8 – 108” in 2025. During Colleen’s 30 years of teaching chemistry, she became aware that her students were struggling with basic concepts, including fluency with the symbols for the elements themselves. These comic books, videos, and activities are Colleen’s gift to all future scientists – one that will help them succeed in college chemistry. Colleen holds a Ph.D. in chemistry from Penn State University. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 187 | On this episode of Homeschool Your Way, host Janna Koch sits down with Dr. Rob Currie from Judson University to explore creative ways to make history meaningful and memorable for homeschool students. Drawing from his background as a history major and author, Dr. Currie shares hands-on strategies like reader’s theater, historical fiction, debates, and even cooking to bring the past to life. He also offers practical tips on using resources like libraries, Kahoot, and virtual tours to enrich lessons. Tune in as he highlights his WWII novel Hunger Winter and inspires families to weave history into everyday learning. ABOUT OUR GUEST | ROB CURRIE Life conspired to get Rob Currie to write books about World War II in the Netherlands. His father served in that great conflict and got him hooked on exciting books which described the courage and bravery of those who fought in that great conflict. Rob believes heroes shine the brightest in the darkest times. His wife is Dutch and one day, his son brought home a three-page story he wrote about World War II in the Netherlands. Rob and his son agreed to write a full-length book for fun, which turned into Hunger Winter: A World War II Novel. When Rob isn’t writing books for kids, he teaches psychology at Judson University. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, writing humorous poetry, and playing basketball. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 186 | In this powerful episode, host Janna Koch sits down with Camille Kirksey—homeschool mom, thought leader, and author of the newly updated Coming Home. Camille shares a refreshing and empowering perspective on what modern homeschooling can and should look like. You’ll discover how shifting your mindset can transform your homeschool journey, how to give yourself grace, and why it’s time to let go of outdated ideas about education. Camille dives deep into topics like overcoming decision fatigue, building emotional resilience in kids, and nurturing critical thinking and creativity—skills today’s children truly need. Through personal stories, including her son’s inspiring college acceptance journey, Camille offers real-life encouragement and practical strategies for families navigating the evolving homeschool landscape. If you’ve ever questioned how to make homeschooling work for your family—or wondered if you’re “doing it right”—this is the episode you don’t want to miss. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 185 | In this episode, we introduce BookShark’s brand-new middle school science curriculum—a dynamic program designed to bring science to life for homeschoolers in grades 6–8. Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), this innovative curriculum blends engaging literature, guided inquiry, and hands-on experiments to create a seamless and meaningful learning experience. Discover how each hands-on lab is intentionally connected to the literature students have read in the days leading up to the activity, reinforcing scientific concepts through both storytelling and experimentation. Join us as we talk with Amy R. about how this fresh approach builds confidence, promotes critical thinking, and makes science relevant and exciting—bridging the gap from lab to life. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 184 | Homeschool convention season is in full swing—and there’s no better way to explore curriculum options, get inspired, and meet fellow homeschooling families than by attending one in person! In this episode, we dive into the value of homeschool conventions and share where you can find BookShark this year. Whether you're just starting your homeschooling journey or you're a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, conventions offer a hands-on experience like no other. We’ll cover: Why homeschool conventions are a game-changer for parents and students Tips for making the most out of your convention visit The unique benefits of stopping by the BookShark booth—including curriculum previews, exclusive discounts, and expert advice A list of upcoming conventions where you can meet the BookShark team in person Grab your calendar and tune in to plan your season of inspiration and connection! Resources Mentioned: Visit https://www.bookshark.com/about/convention-schedule for our full 2025 convention schedule Learn more about BookShark’s literature-based curriculum at bookshark.com Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 183 | Understanding Learning Styles Every child learns differently, and recognizing those differences can transform the way you homeschool. In this episode of Homeschool Your Way, Janna and Ximena dive into the world of learning styles—what they are, why they matter, and how they can shape your homeschooling approach. Whether your child thrives on hands-on activities, absorbs information best through reading, or needs to move while learning, understanding their unique preferences can make homeschooling more effective and enjoyable. Tune in as Janna and Ximena share insights, tips, and personal experiences to help you tailor your homeschool to fit the way your child learns best! ABOUT OUR GUEST | Ximena is a homeschooling mother of two—one graduate and one currently in 10th grade. Her homeschooling journey began in 2014, filled with piles of readers and cherished moments cuddled up on the couch with a good read-aloud. Beyond academics, her family shares a love for travel, gourmet experiences, and cozy movie nights. They are avid fans of The Office and enjoy laughing together out loud. Passionate about supporting fellow homeschool parents, Ximena provides fun and practical tips alongside her best friend. More about her homeschooling journey can be found at www.chipsnsalsahomeschooling.com. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

LISTENER COUPON CODE ★⁠Request your coupon code⁠ to use on any purchase at bookshark.com. EPISODE 182 | In this episode, Janna and her guest, Molly Nickles, dive into the power of SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—and how they apply them not only to personal growth but also to family and everyday life. Through candid conversations and real-life examples, they share how setting intentional goals has shaped their careers, strengthened their relationships, and helped them navigate life’s unexpected twists. With humor, insight, and plenty of relatable moments, this episode inspires listeners to take a structured yet flexible approach to goal-setting, making room for both ambition and life’s beautiful chaos. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Molly Nickles is a working homeschooling mom of a high school Senior and sophomore. She’s been married for 19 years and lives in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is a Marketing and Sales Operations Director, which means her job revolves around making smart goals! When she isn’t working, she loves to read informational books and travel- her family has visited 49 states, with Hawaii being the last American frontier!   Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 181 | "Keep Your Kids SAFE" offers essential insights for parents navigating online safety and building trust with their children. Fareedah, an expert in the field, shares her personal journey and practical strategies to address parental concerns while fostering connection. The episode explores how gaming can positively impact education and careers, offers advice on rebuilding trust after negative experiences, and provides a clear framework for online safety through the SAFE Method. With tailored, age-appropriate safety measures and the importance of real-world lessons, this episode equips parents with the tools to guide their kids in the digital world effectively. LISTENER COUPON CODE ★Request your coupon code to use on any purchase at bookshark.com. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Fareedah Shaheed is an award-winning Internet Safety Expert, Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and founder of Sekuva and the Protect Kids Online (PKO) Membership. With expertise in cybersecurity, threat intelligence, and online gaming, she created the SAFE Method, a unique approach to child internet safety focused on building safe spaces and meaningful connections. Featured by outlets like CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and Fortune Magazine, Fareedah has worked with major organizations, including Meta, NASA, and LinkedIn, to promote online safety. She also serves on the Forbes Under 30 board and is a LinkedIn Top Voice in Cybersecurity. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 180 | Explore strategies for balancing homeschooling with a full-time job. The discussion emphasizes the importance of flexibility, using support systems like co-ops, and simplifying the curriculum to manage time effectively. One approach shared includes utilizing online resources such as math tutoring and adopting a four-day week focused on core subjects to create a more streamlined schedule. The episode also highlights the benefits of prioritizing reading and encourages families not to overestimate the time needed for homeschooling. By experimenting with different methods and seeking help when necessary, families can find a routine that works best for them while juggling both homeschooling and full-time work. LISTENER COUPON CODE ★Request your coupon code to use on any purchase at bookshark.com. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Stephanie is a California-certified teacher, homeschool mom of two, and an Instagram content creator dedicated to helping parents homeschool while maintaining their careers. She provides valuable resources that empower families to successfully balance work and homeschooling, showing that with the right tools, it’s entirely possible. When she's not creating content or teaching, Stephanie and her family love to spend time outdoors, kayaking and paddleboarding, with their loyal dog Winston always by their side, offering a little extra help during homeschool sessions. Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 179 |  Well, that’s a wrap to Season 4 of the podcast Homeschool Your Way!  It seems crazy that we have done 179 Episodes including this one in four seasons.  We hope that the subjects and people appearing on our podcast have benefited you in some small way. Homeschooling is such a personal path for every family and as always we hope that we have helped you feel more comfortable about your family’s journey. Join Janna as she reflects on the past season and provides some pearls of wisdom from her journey and previous episodes.  QUOTABLES | Standardized testing and homeschool evaluation methods, with a focus on progress and growth. (0:00) Homeschooling mistakes and growth, including unsuccessful methods and neglecting children's needs. (4:13) Homeschooling motivation, why, and personalized learning. (9:18) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 178 | Parents finding joy in writing for their children is a meaningful way to connect and nurture creativity. This act strengthens the parent-child bond, fosters creativity, encourages personal growth, and enhances cognitive skills. It also contributes to literacy development in children, fostering a love for storytelling and literature. Additionally, writing for children allows parents to share their values, life experiences, and wisdom in a tangible and memorable way. It provides an avenue for parents to explore imaginative worlds, create characters, and impart important lessons through engaging narratives. Ultimately, writing for children creates lasting memories and enriches both parents' and children's lives with shared experiences and imaginative adventures. Join Janna and her guest, Greg Baran, as they talk about writing and how to make it an enjoyable experience for your student. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Greg Baran feels blessed every day because his wonderful wife Heather and his amazing son Nate are in his life. With a background in teaching college and secondary English studies, he noticed early on that many students struggled with writing. Drawing from his expertise in English Composition, he recognized that this challenge was solvable, and it became his mission to ensure that every student who passed through his classroom could write with clarity and effectiveness. This commitment led to the development of The Baran Method, which remains a driving force in his efforts to empower every child to become a proficient writer. QUOTABLES |  Teaching children how to write with a focus on confidence and effective methods. (0:00) Teaching academic writing to students, focusing on a framework for organization. (4:03) How to encourage kids to write without crushing their creativity. (9:20) Importance of reading out loud to improve writing skills. (14:51) Using AI in writing and its impact on children's learning. (19:49) Importance of writing and communication skills for future jobs. (25:09) Importance of articulating ideas in writing and education. (29:03) Teaching children to write well through dictation and contextual grammar instruction. (33:41) Teaching children to write using the "Baran Method" by Greg. (39:15) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 177 | Ever wondered about dyslexia? Have you heard of the Barton method? Dyslexia affects many, but homeschooling offers tailored options. Discovering strengths in dyslexic learners is crucial, with assessments guiding multi-sensory learning approaches. Online and in-person tutoring supports children with learning difficulties, benefiting from passionate advocates in homeschooling settings. Listen in as Janna and her guest, Angela D’Antonio discuss dyslexia, the Barton method and so much more. ABOUT OUR GUEST | ABOUT OUR GUEST| Angela D’Antonio has been homeschooling her two daughters for over a decade, beginning with preschool and continuing through high school.  From 2019 to 2023, she worked in sales and customer service for a homeschool curriculum company. She now brings her expertise as a sales and marketing consultant for educational supply companies and schools. In addition, Angela serves as a Barton academic tutor and offers personalized services, both in-person and online, to support homeschooling families.  Her true passion lies in assisting families in discovering the perfect curriculum for their children and ensuring that their homeschoolers are well-prepared for college. QUOTABLES |  Dyslexia, homeschooling, and the Barton method with a passionate advocate. (0:04) Dyslexia prevalence, diagnosis, and homeschooling options. (6:08) Dyslexia, strengths, and homeschooling. (12:29) Online and in-person tutoring for children with learning difficulties. (18:48) Dyslexia, learning difficulties, and homeschooling. (24:11) Dyslexia and homeschooling with a focus on assessments and multi-sensory learning. (28:57) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 176| Why is hearing about other peoples’ homeschool stories important?  Because it can energize us and give us wonderful ideas on how to make our lives easier. It also gives us perspective on our lives on just how well we are doing and tips to make it easier. Join Janna and her guest, Tricia on making homeschooling work with four energetic boys and the magic of using stories to teach, especially with BookSharks. We'll also dive into how we balance homeschooling and sports, share handy organizational tips like binder calendars and color coding, and discuss teaching life skills alongside academics. Learn mental math tricks to smooth out those busy homeschooling and sports schedules. Tune in for a dose of homeschooling inspiration! ABOUT OUR GUEST | Trisha Kondratek is in her seventh year of homeschooling her four boys, ages 7 to 12. As a family they chose to begin their homeschool journey as their oldest was going into first grade; which opened the door to more family time, traveling, and learning at each child's pace. Prior to homeschooling, Trisha was heavily involved in photography and the arts community, and now enjoys introducing her boys to the arts and humanities. Reading, exploring, and learning along side her boys has become the biggest bonus of being a homeschool mom. The family is more often than not spotted at the hockey rink or lacrosse field for practices or games in the evenings and weekends. Trisha, and the Kondratek family as a whole, are thankful for the quality time homeschooling has afforded them, even during the busy sports seasons. QUOTABLES | Homeschooling with four boys, using BookSharks literature-based learning. (0:04) Using literature to teach children, with a focus on BookShark curriculum. (8:32) Homeschooling and sports involvement. (12:01) Homeschooling and organization tips, including using a binder calendar and color-coding. (17:17) Homeschooling and organization tips for busy parents. (21:23) Homeschooling and life skills for children. (28:11) Managing busy homeschool and sports schedule with mental math tricks. (32:38) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 175| Discover the transformative power of implementing outdoor education in homeschooling. Delve into the profound benefits of homeschooling for families, exploring how it nurtures personalized learning experiences. Our guest, a former teacher with a PhD in education policy, sheds light on the crucial role of outdoor education in homeschooling, emphasizing its ability to foster connections with nature and community. From discussing a new curriculum box tailored for outdoor education to sharing insights on effective teaching methods and hands-on learning using real-world problems, this episode equips homeschooling parents with invaluable tools to enrich their children's education. Tune in to learn how to teach science, and outdoor skills, and connect deeply with nature, creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences for homeschoolers. ABOUT OUR GUEST | Rob Vagi is a homeschooling dad with almost 20 years of education experience including classroom teaching and education research. He also runs Wilder Outdoor Academy which provides outdoor education experiences that equip and inspire families to have great outdoor adventures. You can learn more by tuning into the Wilder Outdoors Podcast  (available on all major podcast providers) or by visiting www.wilderoutdooracademy.com. QUOTABLES |  Implementing outdoor education in homeschooling with a former teacher and PhD in education policy. (0:04) Homeschooling and its benefits for families. (2:46) Outdoor education and homeschooling with a focus on connecting with nature and community. (8:17) Outdoor education for homeschoolers, including a new curriculum box. (14:34) Outdoor activities with kids, emphasizing the importance of clear goals and fun experiences. (19:25) Outdoor learning and teaching methods for homeschool parents. (22:43) Using nature and real-world problems for hands-on learning. (27:42) Teaching science and outdoor skills to homeschoolers. (33:10) Outdoor education and connecting with nature. (39:12) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.

EPISODE 174 | In the dynamic world of homeschooling, BookShark stands out for its meticulous book selection criteria that cater to diverse learning needs. From crafting relatable characters in children's books to leveraging literature as a gateway to understanding history and culture, BookShark's approach intertwines educational strategies with emotional connections to enrich the homeschooling experience. By prioritizing character development and cultural relevance in their curated book lists, BookShark empowers homeschoolers with a well-rounded program that educates and fosters a deeper appreciation for literature and the world around us. Learn the how and why BookShark chooses books in Part 2 of BookShark Insider with Janna and Maddie. QUOTABLES | Book selection criteria for BookShark’s homeschooling program. (0:04) Creating relatable and well-developed characters in children's books. (2:17) The importance of literature in understanding history and culture. (7:02) Literature and homeschooling strategies. (11:48) The importance of emotional connections in reading. (16:58) Choosing books for homeschooling based on character development and cultural relevance. (25:15) BookShark homeschooling program and its benefits. (29:08) Thanks to show sponsor BookShark. Request a homeschool curriculum catalog or download samples at bookshark.com. If you'd like to share an aha moment, an inspirational quote, a homeschool hack, a book you're loving, or a suggested podcast topic/guest, leave a comment at bookshark.com/podcast. We'd love to feature your reflection on a future episode.