Empowering Homeschool Conversations

Peggy Ployhar, SPED Homeschool Founder

Welcome to Empowering Homeschool Conversations, your authority in navigating the world of homeschooling diverse learners.

Featuring Peggy Ployhar from SPED Homeschool, Annie Yorty from AnnieYorty.com, Leilani Melendez from Living with Eve, Stephanie Buckwalter from ELARP Learning, and Dawn Jackson from Dawn Jackson Educational Consulting & Tutoring.

With over 75 years of combined homeschooling expertise, experiences, and perspectives, this group is eager to share their wealth of wisdom to empower your homeschooling journey.

So, grab your favorite mug, settle in and get ready for insightful discussions, valuable insights, and practical tips as these experts and their guests dive into the hottest topics in homeschooling. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler, just considering this path, or anywhere in between you don't want to miss a minute of these enlightening conversations that will empower your child to thrive in their homeschool environment.

Join us to give your homeschool the power boost it needs to successfully educate the unique learners in your home.

Would you like to view our upcoming broadcast schedule? VIsit this page to see our upcoming calendar of guests and discussions.

And, make sure to join the ongoing Empowering Homeschool Conversations Group to submit your questions ahead of the show AND to join us for post-show conversations.

Links to Us:

https://spedhomeschool.com/

https://annieyorty.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve

https://elarplearning.com/

https://solimaracademy.com/

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Episodes

Passion-Led Learning-Empowering Homeschool Success through Coaching
3d ago
Passion-Led Learning-Empowering Homeschool Success through Coaching
In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, SPED Homeschool Founder and CEO, is joined by Uzma Akser—homeschool mom, Executive & Leadership Coach (ACC), Certified Autism Specialist, and Neuroinclusion Advocate. Uzma shares her unique coaching strategies that empower homeschool success by turning children's passions into learning opportunities, especially for unique learners. As the Founder of Uzma Akser Coaching and Consulting (UACC) and Motherhood on the Spectrum (MoS), Uzma talks about her journey in transforming her son’s love for technology into educational projects and how she applies coaching principles in home education. She also offers advice for parents transitioning from traditional schooling to homeschooling, particularly for unique learners, and explains how to balance academic, life, and social skills development. Uzma shares the lessons learned from founding her company and how her personal experiences shape her approach to neuroinclusion coaching for educators and corporate leaders. Tune in for practical strategies, inspiration, and expert insights on creating a homeschool environment where passion fuels learning! Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Peggy Ployhar and Uzma Akser 05:00 – Turning a Passion for Technology into a Learning Opportunity 15:00 – How Coaching Influences Home Education for Unique Learners 25:00 – Advice for Parents Transitioning to Homeschooling 35:00 – Balancing Academics, Life Skills, and Social Development 45:00 – Identifying and Leveraging Children’s Passions in Education 55:00 – Uzma’s Journey from Advocacy to Founding UACC and MoS 1:05:00 – Addressing Misconceptions About Neuroinclusion in Education and Workplaces To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership To connect with Uzma and her resources, visit: https://coachingwithuzma.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Thinking Beyond the Book: Creative Strategies for Language-Based Learning Challenges
Oct 1 2024
Thinking Beyond the Book: Creative Strategies for Language-Based Learning Challenges
In this insightful episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar, Founder & CEO of SPED Homeschool, sits down with Marianne Sunderland, a seasoned homeschool mom and creator of Homeschooling with Dyslexia. Marianne, a mother of eight children—seven of whom are dyslexic—has years of firsthand experience navigating the challenges of homeschooling children with language-based learning challenges. In this episode, Marianne shares practical strategies for teaching students with learning difficulties that extend beyond traditional books and curriculum. The conversation touches on everything from understanding what it means to have a language-based learning challenge, to alternative teaching strategies, to creating the right learning environment. Marianne offers tips on how parents can encourage a love for learning in students who may feel frustrated, and how to help students thrive academically and emotionally. Tune in to explore creative, effective methods for teaching struggling learners, and gain valuable insights from Marianne's personal journey of homeschooling outside-the-box learners. To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here:https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit:https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership To connect with Marianne and his resources, visit: https://homeschoolingwithdyslexia.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Screen-Savvy Parenting: Navigating Tech with Biblical Boundaries
Sep 24 2024
Screen-Savvy Parenting: Navigating Tech with Biblical Boundaries
In a world where screens dominate our daily lives, how can parents ensure their children navigate the digital landscape with wisdom and faith? Join us for a powerful discussion that offers practical advice and spiritual guidance for today’s tech-savvy families. In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with David Tucker, a seasoned pastor, technology executive, and founder ofDigitalParenting.com. David, a father of three teenagers, brings a wealth of experience in guiding families to set Biblical boundaries around technology use. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities of raising children in a tech-driven world, offering insights on how to create a balanced, faith-filled home environment. Whether you’re grappling with screen time issues or looking for ways to integrate technology with your home teaching, this episode will equip you with resources to be a screen-savvy parent. To join in the after-show conversation, join the Empowering Homeschool Conversations Q&A group here:https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/tuesday-empowering-conversations *You must have a Navigator Membership or higher on Homeschool Heroes to be part of this group. To get a membership or upgrade your membership, visit: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/membership To connect with David and his resources, visit: https://www.digitalparenting.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The Key to Maximizing your Home Education Budget
Sep 17 2024
The Key to Maximizing your Home Education Budget
Are you stretching every dollar to make your homeschool budget work? In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Krisa Winn, a seasoned homeschooling consultant and the new SPED Homeschool Director of Consulting and Partnerships, to explore the key to maximizing your homeschool budget. Discover how working with an educational consultant can be a game-changer for your family—not just in terms of educational outcomes, but also in managing costs. Krisa shares her extensive experience and breaks down the tangible benefits of consulting services, from accessing cost-effective resources to saving time, reducing stress, and boosting productivity, all of which contribute to a more manageable and efficient budget. Learn how utilizing a consultant can actually save your family money by identifying unnecessary expenses and prioritizing what truly matters in your child’s education. Peggy and Krisa also discuss the ripple effect of these services—how the guidance and support from a consultant can free up valuable time for parents, allowing them to focus on what they do best: nurturing their children’s learning and growth. Finally, Krisa sheds light on SPED Homeschool’s vision for making quality, effective consultative services accessible to all homeschooling families, regardless of budget constraints. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, this episode offers actionable strategies and insights that can transform how you approach your homeschooling finances. Krisa Winn is an educator and sought-after public speaker who has served homeschooling families for more than a decade. As a special needs consultant at Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) she worked with thousands of fellow homeschooling parents offering personalized guidance, resources, and practical help to families homeschooling children with special needs. During her 21 years as a classroom teacher, she taught children of all ages, abilities, and circumstances. She has also worked as a private tutor, an early childhood intervention specialist, and an academic language therapist in training. Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The Top Approach for Homeschool Success with Struggling Learners
Sep 10 2024
The Top Approach for Homeschool Success with Struggling Learners
Are you homeschooling a struggling learner and searching for strategies that really work? In this must-listen episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with co-host Dawn Jackson to delve into the top approach for achieving homeschool success with your child. Dawn shares her expert insights and practical tips that every parent should know to create an effective and nurturing learning environment. Tune in to discover how to empower your child to thrive in their educational journey. Dawn Jackson M.Ed has over 30 years of experience in education and is a retired homeschool mom. She is the owner and director of Solimar Academy with credentials in General education, Special Education, and a certified Learning Styles Coach. 🌟 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today! 🌟 To connect with Dawn, visit: https://solimaracademy.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Join our mission to empower homeschool families! https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Heartfelt Connections: Deepening Parental Prayers for Special Needs Blessings
Sep 3 2024
Heartfelt Connections: Deepening Parental Prayers for Special Needs Blessings
Join us for a moving conversation as co-host Stephanie Buckwalter from Empowering Homeschool Conversations sits down with Jenn Soehnlin, a devoted mother of two precious boys with special needs. Jenn shares her heartfelt journey of faith, the power of praying Scripture, and the unique challenges and blessings of special needs parenting. In this episode, you'll discover how to deepen your own prayers and find strength in faith while navigating the beautiful, complex world of special needs parenting. Jenn, author of Embracing This Special Life and On the Same Page with God, opens up about her experiences, offering encouragement and insights for every parent walking a similar path. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will touch your heart and lift your spirit. Tune in, grab a cup of coffee, and be inspired by the power of prayer and connection. 🌟 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today! 🌟 To connect with Jenn, visit:https://embracing.life/ Other resources mentioned by Jenn in this episode: Scripture-Based Prayers for Special Needs Parents: https://embracing.life/category/Specialneeds Embracing This Special Life https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-This-Special-Life-Learning/dp/1723938181/ On the Same Page with God https://www.amazon.com/Same-Page-God-Embracing-Scripture/dp/B0D91FC8KG/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Experienced Advice on Building a Homeschool Support Network -The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Aug 23 2024
Experienced Advice on Building a Homeschool Support Network -The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Struggling to find the right support system for your homeschooling journey? You’re not alone! In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our five show hosts share their seasoned advice on how to build a strong homeschool support network. From the uplifting successes to the tough challenges—and even a few hard-learned lessons—our hosts reveal the good, the bad, and the ugly of creating a community that truly supports you. Plus, stick around for the bonus “Ask Us Anything” Q&A session, where we answer your most pressing questions. Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran, this episode is packed with valuable insights to guide you along the way. Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Ready, Set, Homeschool: Mental Prep for Moms of Diverse Learners
Aug 20 2024
Ready, Set, Homeschool: Mental Prep for Moms of Diverse Learners
In this enriching episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, four of our dedicated hosts, experienced special education homeschooling moms, come together for an insightful and helpful discussion on a critical back to homeschool topic: Ready, Set, Homeschool: Mental Prep for Moms of Diverse Learners   From the unique challenges of homeschooling children with special needs to the emotional toll it can take on the moms who juggle it all, our hosts dive deep into the realities faced by many mothers who home educate children with learning challenges.   This episode is packed with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and spiritual insights aimed at fostering emotional well-being. Join us as we share advice, give you our personal tips, and overall provide a comforting reminder that you are not alone on this journey. Our conversation is designed to empower and equip you to thrive as a special needs homeschooling mom.   Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/   To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/   To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.leilanimelendez.com/ https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/  Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Strategic Homeschooling-Assessing Last Year and Planning Ahead for Diverse Needs
Aug 16 2024
Strategic Homeschooling-Assessing Last Year and Planning Ahead for Diverse Needs
🔍 Are you ready to level up your homeschooling strategy? Join Peggy Ployhar on Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she dives deep with team co-host Annie Yorty in an insightful interview on "Strategic Homeschooling: Assessing Last Year and Planning Ahead for Diverse Needs." Discover practical tips, tools, and insights to help you evaluate your past year and plan effectively for the future, ensuring your child’s unique needs are met every step of the way. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation that will transform your homeschooling journey! 🎓✨ Annie Yorty is a wife, mother, writer, and speaker who brings hope and encouragement to those navigating tough times. Her life, filled with unexpected twists, has deepened her reliance on God’s presence and purpose. Annie's advocacy journey began with the birth of her first child, who has Down syndrome. She finds joy in helping others discover their needs and sources of support. Her advocacy spans parenting, disability support, global missions, homeschooling, Bible teaching, Multiple Sclerosis awareness, and mentoring. Annie has inspired audiences across four continents and contributes to various blogs and online magazines, including Crosswalk. Her book, "From Ignorance to Bliss: God’s Heart Revealed Through Down Syndrome," shares the hope she found through her parenting journey. To connect with Annie, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Parenting with Heart: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Parenthood
Aug 13 2024
Parenting with Heart: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Parenthood
Join host Leilani Melendez in an eye-opening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she sits down with Aaron Brewster to dive deep into the emotional intricacies of parenthood. In "Parenting with Heart: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Parenthood," Aaron shares profound insights and practical advice on how to connect with your children on a deeper level, manage the emotional ups and downs of parenting, and foster a nurturing environment at home. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, this conversation will equip you with the tools to parent with empathy and understanding. Don’t miss this empowering discussion!   Aaron Brewster is the president of Evermind Ministries, chief editor for Striving for Eternity, and a member of the Christian Podcast Network. He is an ACBC-certified biblical counselor, writer, preacher, and conference speaker. In addition, he’s the host of the Truth.Love.Parent. podcast and The Celebration of God podcast. Aaron counsels and speaks on a wide range of topics, but he specializes in the areas of family, discipleship, education, and worship, as well as training the next generation of biblical counselors. To connect with Aaron, visit:https://strivingforeternity.org/about/our-team/ambrewster/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests on Empowering Homeschool Conversations are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the host(s) or the show's producers. While we aim to provide a platform for diverse perspectives, we do not endorse or agree with all opinions shared during the broadcast. We encourage our audience to consider the information presented and make informed decisions that align with their own values and beliefs.Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Looking Ahead: Exploring Independence for Young Adults
Aug 9 2024
Looking Ahead: Exploring Independence for Young Adults
In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Stephanie Buckwalter welcomes Mary Underwood, author and blogger at What Empty Nest, whose mission is to encourage, equip, and empower parents of young adults with disabilities entering adulthood. Together, they explore the journey towards independence for young adults with disabilities, offering practical advice, personal stories, and valuable insights. Tune in to discover how to support and guide your young adult in achieving greater independence and success as they transition into adulthood. Mary Underwood has been involved in the special needs community for over a decade as well as having friends and family who are walking this journey with their young adult. She is an author and blogger at What Empty Nest where her mission is to encourage, equip and empower parents of young adults with disabilities who are entering adulthood. To connect with Mary, visit:https://whatemptynest.com/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Rethinking ADHD: Attention to Dreams, Humor and Discoveries
Aug 6 2024
Rethinking ADHD: Attention to Dreams, Humor and Discoveries
Join host Dawn Jackson in this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations as she sits down with Marieamma Willis, an Educational Therapist, author, and Learning-Success™ Coach in private practice. Together, they dive into a refreshing perspective on ADHD, exploring how attention can be harnessed to focus on dreams, utilize humor, and make valuable discoveries. Marieamma shares her expertise and innovative strategies to help families and educators support children with ADHD in a positive and empowering way. Don’t miss this insightful discussion that promises to inspire and transform your approach to ADHD. Mariaemma is an Educational Therapist and Learning-Success™ Coach in private practice. She has been teaching, developing educational programs, and presenting workshops for over 30 years. She is co-author of the Self-Portrait™ Power Traits Assessment, the book Discover Your Child’s Learning Style, My Book of Me student workbooks, and Light Heart Parenting courses. Other books include: What to Do When They Don’t Get It and Learning Doesn’t Have to Hurt. Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Growing Great Writers: Strategies for Homeschooling Families
Jul 30 2024
Growing Great Writers: Strategies for Homeschooling Families
Are you a homeschooling parent struggling to inspire your child's inner author? Dive into this episode as Annie Yorty sits down with celebrated author and educator, Heidi Vertrees, to unlock the secrets of nurturing young writers in a homeschooling environment. Discover proven strategies, creative techniques, and personal anecdotes that will transform your homeschooling journey and ignite a passion for writing in your children. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to equip you with the tools to grow great writers right at home! Heidi Vertrees, author and educator, manages New Song Press, a website where she posts blogs to encourage parents and teachers with helpful and fun writing projects that promote a Christian worldview. She loves to inspire children and teens to write for God’s glory. Heidi, who homeschooled her children and helped to raise a “bonus” daughter with Down syndrome, has taught in Colorado, Virginia, and Maryland in Christian, charter, and public schools. She is the award-winning author of Victor Survives Being a Kid. Written for children aged eight to twelve, Victor Survives Being a Kid weaves a thrilling tale full of adventure, humor, and inspiration told through the eyes of a fifth-grade boy. These days, Heidi teaches swimming to homeschoolers at Shepherd University in West Virginia and leads an after-school Good News Bible Club in Washington County, Maryland. To connect with Heidi visit her website link: https://www.newsongpress.net/ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Conquering Math Anxiety-Strategies for Frustration-Free Learning
Jul 23 2024
Conquering Math Anxiety-Strategies for Frustration-Free Learning
In this enlightening episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, host Peggy Ployhar sits down with Amy Sneath, the dynamic owner of Moxie Learning to talk about math anxiety and strategies for frustration-free learning. Amy takes us on a journey through the origins of math anxiety, offering insights on recognizing when your child has mastered a topic versus needing more practice. She delves into the transformative power of understanding concepts through the concrete, pictorial, and abstract stages. Discover why multiplication facts often trip up young learners and how conquering them can boost a child's confidence. Plus, Amy highlights the importance of incorporating games into learning and shares her expert tips on structuring an effective math lesson. Tune in for practical strategies to make math a fun and stress-free experience for your child! Amy Sneath earned her bachelor's degree in early childhood education, her eyes were opened to all that the homeschooling world offered. Since then, she created Moxie Learning, an alternative education platform that offers live virtual classes for students and resources to support homeschooling parents. Right now her and her husband, TJ are spending some time in their home state of California before heading out on their next adventure. They have lived in 8 states and 2 countries!   To connect with Amy visit her website link: https://mailchi.mp/moxielearning.us/classes Or look her up on social media @moxielearning Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Decoding Dyslexia-Unraveling the Neurodevelopmental Puzzle
Jul 16 2024
Decoding Dyslexia-Unraveling the Neurodevelopmental Puzzle
Are you ready to dive deep into the world of neurodevelopment and discover the mysteries behind dyslexia? Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Dr. Jan Bedell, a renowned Master Neurodevelopmentalist. With her extensive expertise and passion for helping individuals unlock their full potential. Tune in to uncover the keys to understanding and supporting dyslexic individuals and gain a fresh perspective on the incredible capabilities of the human brain. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in the field! Jan Bedell, PhD, Master Neurodevelopmentalist is a seasoned special education homeschool mom and President of Brain Sprints (formally Little Giant Steps), a neurodeveopmental curriculum, consulting and support company. Jan also serves as the board chair for SPED Homeschool Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To connect with Jan and her resources, use this links: https://www.brainsprints.com/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/ Disclaimer: We apologize for the chopping conversation, but it was the best we could do to clean up the audio with our guest's poor internet connection.Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Parenting with Patience: Expert Advice on Managing Challenging Child Behavior
Jul 9 2024
Parenting with Patience: Expert Advice on Managing Challenging Child Behavior
Navigating the complexities of parenting children who have experienced neglect or trauma can be daunting. In this episode, we sit down with Jayne E. Schooler to explore compassionate and effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors. Discover practical tips on fostering resilience, building trust, and nurturing emotional healing in your child. Tune in to learn how patience, empathy, and expert guidance can transform your parenting and homeschooling journey. Jayne E. Schooler is the author or coauthor of eight books in the field of child welfare, including Wounded Children, Healing Homes: How Traumatized Children Impact Adoptive and Foster Families and Parenting in Transracial Adoption: Real Questions and Real Answers. Jayne served full-time with Back2Back Ministries and regularly visited countries around the world to train and support organizations and ministries in creating trauma-informed programs. Jayne lives in Dayton, Ohio, is a mother by both birth and adoption as well is a grandparent of four. Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To connect with Jayne and her resources, use these links: New book: https://mediacenter.tyndale.com/p/caring-for-kids-from-hard-places/9781646070466 Website: https://schoolerinstitute.org/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Thriving Together-Strengthening Your Marriage While Raising a Child with Disabilities
Jul 2 2024
Thriving Together-Strengthening Your Marriage While Raising a Child with Disabilities
In this episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations, your host Annie Yorty and her special guests dive into the unique challenges and beautiful complexities of maintaining a strong, loving partnership while navigating the demands of special needs parenting. Our expert guests bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to the table, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies for fostering resilience, connection, and joy in your marriage. Whether you're homeschooling parents seeking support, or simply looking for ways to strengthen your relationship amidst life's challenges, this conversation promises to provide the inspiration and tools you need to thrive together. Let's embark on this journey of love and learning, together. Our guests, Dr. Todd and Kristin Evans, are celebrating 22 years of marriage. They are award-winning authors, speakers, and special needs parents. They co-authored their new book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage as You Care for Children with Disabilities (Baker Books). They both earned their MA in Christian Educational Ministries at Wheaton College in Illinois and have served together in full-time ministry in church, camping, and retreat settings. Todd received his PhD from Vanderbilt University’s School of Engineering and currently manages his own business, and Kristin earned her MSW from the University of Tennessee and is a Licensed Master Social Worker experienced in couples, child and family, substance abuse, and crisis counseling. They enjoy traveling and the outdoors together. To connect with our guests, visit: https://disabilityparenting.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Build-Thriving-Marriage-Children-Disabilities/dp/1540903737/ https://www.instagram.com/disabilityparenting/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
From Trauma to Triumph_ Homeschooling a Diverse Family
Jun 25 2024
From Trauma to Triumph_ Homeschooling a Diverse Family
This episode of Empowering Homeschool Conversations features an inspiring interview with popular Christian non-fiction author and speaker, Shari Howard McMinn! As the loving "Mom" to 11 children through marriage, birth, and adoption, Shari has homeschooled 9 of them to high school graduation. Peggy Ployhar, SPED Homeschool Founder & CEO, hosts Shari as she shares her journey from trauma to triumph, offering valuable insights into homeschooling a diverse family. Don't miss the chance to hear about her upcoming book, Embracing Diversity as a Family: Preparing the Next Generation to Flourish. Tune in for heartfelt stories and practical advice on raising resilient, thriving children in today's world! 📚✨ Viewers like you funded similar episodes, and other free resources from SPED Homeschool. To learn how you can support the nonprofit work of SPED Homeschool and this broadcast, visit https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ To connect with Shari and her resources, use these links: New book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5MKBBM1 Website: https://sharimcminn.com/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/ To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Unlocking Potential: Non-Traditional Teaching Methods for Students with Severe Learning Challenges
Jun 18 2024
Unlocking Potential: Non-Traditional Teaching Methods for Students with Severe Learning Challenges
In today's episode, "Unlocking Potential: Non-Traditional Teaching Methods for Students with Severe Learning Challenges," we delve into the world of homeschooling children with intellectual disabilities who are often relegated to a perpetual elementary school experience. From addressing specific struggles in teaching a child with intellectual disabilities and adapting curriculum to understanding learning behaviors and incorporating life skills, this conversation will provide practical insights and tips for unlocking your child's full potential. Stay tuned as our guest and Empowering Homeschool Conversations co-host, Stephanie Buckwalter, uncovers ways to navigate the complexities of homeschooling children with severe learning challenges and to empower them to thrive beyond traditional expectations. Stephanie Buckwalter is a curriculum developer and the creator of the ELARP™ Method of homeschooling for students who are two or more years behind grade level in several core subjects, or simply stuck in perpetual kindergarten. She believes that the first step to homeschooling a special needs child is to assume intelligence. Once you realize there is more going on intellectually than your child can express, it opens up a whole new world of learning. Her family of five children has done homeschool, private school and public school (including the IEP process). In addition to homeschooling for over 18 years, Stephanie has taught classes locally and online, and helped start a robotics club, a classical education co-op and a special needs homeschool co-op. Her heart is to use her unique experience to help others experience success teaching their unique learners. Use this link that Stephanie created for parenting homeschooling students with Intellectual Disabilities: https://www.spedhomeschool.com/groups/students-with-severe-learning-challenges Connect with Stephanie and the resources she mentioned in this broadcast: ELARP Learning: https://elarplearning.com/ Art of Special Needs Parenting: https://artofspecialneedsparenting.com/ 3 Circles of Purpose printable (link: https://artofspecialneedsparenting.com/3-circles-of-purpose/) Teaching a Special Needs Child at Home and at School - Judith Munday Family Math - Stenmark, Thompson and Cossey Skills Evaluation for the Homeschool - Rebecca Avery, The Weaver Curriculum What Your Child Needs to Know When, An Evaluation Checklist for Grades K-8 - Rogin Scarlata Home Learning Year by Year - Rebecca Rupp Special Needs Expo, Shelby, NC, June 28-29 https://iajministries.ticketleap.com/t/SPEDHOMESCHOOL/ To find out more about SPED Homeschool, visit our website at https://spedhomeschool.com/  To learn about the other Empowering Homeschool Conversations Co-Hosts and their resources, visit: https://annieyorty.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@LivingWithEve https://elarplearning.com/ https://solimaracademy.com/Join our mission to empower homeschool families!: https://spedhomeschool.com/donate/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.