Homeschool Unrefined

Join us for our last podcast episode, where we chat about our best advice!    After eight years of podcasting, this is our last episode. We’ve combined what we’ve learned over all of our years of homeschooling, podcasting, and educating and have condensed everything into our best advice. Listen along as we explore five concepts that have truly stood the test of time!   Our Best Advice: Trust children  Be yourself Continually adjust expectations Less is more Find the joy   And of course, let's always remember how important connection is!    We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs Maren  Rebel Spirit Podcast with Akilah Hughes I've been thoroughly enjoying this podcast. It sheds light on efforts to right historic wrongs, specifically as we follow Akilah on her journey to attempt to change a problematic mascot in her southern hometown. Eye-opening! Angela Into The Fire: The Last Daughter on Netflix This documentary is compelling, fascinating, and so well done! Definitely not for young kids so be sure to enjoy this when the littles aren't around.   Our audiobook is out! It was really important for us to be able to offer an audiobook and you can now order from wherever you get your audiobooks.  Audible   Order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Think-Differently-About-Learning-Homeschool/dp/1399809261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IVEJ0N3LU61A&d

Join us as Angela and Teresa Wiedrick dive into their thoughts on education!    Teresa Wiedrick is an author, podcaster, and coach.  She helps homeschool moms shed what's not working so they can stop pushing through and enjoy their homeschool again.  Connect with Teresa! Capturing the Charmed Life   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble Every positive review we receive helps us reach more people so please consider leaving a review. Thank you!   Connect with us!  Visit our website and follow us on Instagram: @homeschoolunrefined. Follow Maren for ADD, homeschooling, and parent coaching: @alwayslearningwithmaren. Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List. We are listener-supported! Support us on <stron

Join us as Julie Bogart comes back to talk critical thinking!    Julie Bogart is an author, speaker, podcast host, and creator and owner of Brave Writer, an online writing and language arts program.   In our conversation, we chat about her book Raising Critical Thinkers: A parent's guide to growing wise kids in the digital age, as well as Becoming a Critical Thinker: A Workbook to Help Students Think Well in an Age of Disinformation which offers a practical resource to grow students’ ability to think well in an age of information overload.   We're excited to have you join us as we discuss why critical thinking is of the utmost importance, now more than ever.    Connect with Julie! Brave Writer Classes Mentioned: Essay Prep: Dynamic Thinking All Online Classes   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble

Join us for this special bonus episode with Rachel Rainbolt where we explore the importance of seeing children as humans!    Rachel Rainbolt is a therapist, coach, writer, educator, and host of the Sage Family Podcast.    Connect with Rachel! Sage Family   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble   Connect with us!  Visit our website and follow us on Instagram: @homeschoolunrefined. Follow Maren for ADD, homeschooling, and parent coaching: <a href

Join us for this special bonus episode with Casey O'Roarty where we discuss homeschooling and motivation.    Casey O’Roarty, M.Ed, is a Positive Discipline Lead Trainer and Coach. She hosts the Joyful Courage podcast, parenting summits, live and online classes, and individual coaching. Her book, Joyful Courage: Calming the Drama and Taking Control of YOUR Parenting Journey was published in May 2019.  Connect with Casey! Joyful Courage Podcast   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble   Connect with us!  Visit our website and follow us on Instagram: @homeschoolunrefined. Follow Maren for ADD, homeschooling, and parent coaching: @alwayslearningwithmaren. Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List. We are listener-supported! Support us on Patreon and get access to our special Q&P (Question and Process) episodes! Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected].

Join us for this special bonus episode with Julie Soul all about creativity and homeschool!   Julie Soul is the host of the Creative Homeschool Podcast. She is also the founder of Soul Sparklettes Art and The Glitter Bomb®. Her mission is to inspire and empower anyone who teaches art to kids!        Connect with Julie! Soul Sparklettes Art   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble   <strong

Join us for this special bonus episode with Debbie Reber where we discuss differently wired learners!    Debbie created Tilt Parenting in early 2016 in the hopes that no parent walking this unmarked path will ever feel alone again; to help frustrated and stuck parents feel connected and grounded as they chart a path that feels positive and hopeful for the whole family. Connect with Debbie! Tilt Parenting   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    You can now order our book!  You can order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble   Connect with us!  Visit our website and follow us on Instagra

Join us as we discuss a challenging topic: When struggles happen!   Let's get right to it! When struggles happen, it's usually because our kids aren't doing what we want them to do. Parents often have an agenda and kids often don't have that same agenda.    There's a big difference between reacting vs responding and we discuss this in detail. We also dive into how the disparity between our priorities vs the needs of our children is often what creates struggles.   We share our simple (but oh-so-effective!) strategy for responding to struggles when they arise.    3-Step Response Strategy Stop and take a break Take responsibility and get curious Co-create a plan together   Using this 3-step response strategy and working through a struggle is often the best form of learning that our children can experience. Don't forget to celebrate working through a struggle together!   This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Angela: Beyond That, The Sea by Laura Spence-Ash ChatGPT told me I would like this and they were spot on! I listened to it and loved it. Maren:  Ergonomic Kneeling Chair This takes the pressure off my lower back and hips while working at my computer! Also great for ADHD because I can rock. That small movement helps me focus! You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the follo

Join us as we discuss devices, technology & screens!   We know this is a hot topic and one that can often be heated. It's complicated and encompasses an ever-changing landscape.    What is it about screens that captivates our kids? A sense of community, autonomy, and dopamine are three key words to keep in mind. Our world is technology-dependent and connected so it's important that we empower ourselves and our kids, and get curious while we seek to understand this issue.    Together, let's dive into the following: Our kids are watching us and our relationship with screens. Like it or not, we are modeling for them! It's critical that we teach media and tech literacy. It's essential that we create a plan together, with our kids.     This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Angela: The Tortured Poets Department Almost two months later, this album is still a bop.  Maren:  Death and Other Details I have become a TV show snob, and this show checks all the boxes for me! This is a locked room murder mystery, which grabs my attention every time. Almost the entire season 1 takes place on a yacht. It unfolds the present timeline with family, financial, and social drama, plus jumps back to a previous unsolved murder very much entangled with this one. The vibe is Knives Out meets Succession.   You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Think-Differently-About-Learning-Homeschool/dp/1399809261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IVEJ0N3LU61A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aXuafHJ03FsVqxjvhJFlkw.0oe2C2sSrsfBFmVkBqFB12to-AC8KLRpn3_

Join us as we discuss getting honest about socialization!   This is a biggie! When people ask about socialization, they’re usually wondering about one of the following: How will the homeschooled child spend time with other children? How will the homeschooled child learn to act appropriately in situations where other people are around?  Will homeschooling turn a child into a weird, eccentric kid? We’re here to validate any concerns you might have about socialization and help put your mind at ease.     This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Angela: Favorite New Summer T-shirt I’ve already stocked up for summer!   Maren:  HIdrate Spark Water Bottle If you’ve been around Homeschool Unrefined for a while, you know I’ve used this smart water bottle in the past! After several year’s hiatus, I’m back. The new, updated water bottle is smarter, way easier to clean, and comes with a long-lasting, rechargeable base. It solves all the problems I had with their old bottle, and then some. I love the new tumbler model, which sits by my side all day long.   You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Think-Differently-About-Learning-Homeschool/dp/13

Join us as we talk about easy ways to connect with your kids!   Connection is the foundation for everything and is the answer to a lot of common issues.   We explore these easy ways to connect with your kids: Enter their world, listen, and be curious Let go of your expectations and plans Own your mistakes Invite vs impart    This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Angela: Klorane Dry Shampoo This is the best dry shampoo I’ve tried - I have this on auto-ship!    Maren:  Superhuman Email I have ADHD. The moment I received my first email address in college, life has gotten a little more complicated. Since then I’ve been chasing Inbox Zero to no avail, until Superhuman. Superhuman makes managing and organizing my email simple, and dare I say it, easy. I now see important emails coming in. I can find old emails I need at the right moment. And I often get to Inbox Zero. I’m finally at peace with email. Use my link for a free month!   You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Think-Differently-About-Learning-Homeschool/dp/1399809261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IVEJ0N3LU61A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aXuafHJ03FsVqxjvhJFlkw.0oe2C2sSrsfBFmVkBqFB12to-AC8KLRpn3_LvgxcPi4&dib_tag=se&keywords=think+differently+about+learning+by+angela+sizer&qid=1710251270&sprefix=think+differently+about+l%2Caps%2C178&sr=

Join us as we talk about reframing mental health!   Caring for ourselves and teaching our children how to care for themselves is critical!    In this episode, we talk about: A simple and effective general assessment to help you and your kids self-regulate during challenging times.  The importance of knowing when you need a break and when you need a challenge. How to be proactive in talking with our kids about mental health. Advocating for our kids and knowing how best to support them. What to do when our kids are struggling.   Note: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours/day via call or text.   This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Maren:  Hard Feelings Podcast with Jeannette McCurdy   Angela: Stronger By the Day App Before the Barbell on IG   You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon <li

Join us as we talk about a new approach to neurodivergent learning (that works for everyone!).   We discuss the importance of meeting our kids where they’re at and cover learning practices that are good not only for neurodivergent kids, but for everyone!   To help kids with learning differences (and anybody, for that matter!) it’s important to focus on: Connection  Flexibility  Fostering a love of learning Focusing on our child’s strengths   This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing. If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Maren:  Bento Style Lunch Boxes Angela: Moose Master   You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble   <

Join us as we discuss 4 Homeschool Tentpoles!    These tentpoles help hold up our homeschooling structure. They’re like filters, helping us make decisions about what to prioritize and what to intentionally leave out.    These are top-tier life skills and serve as a guide for our homeschool: Expansive thinking and inclusive practice Noticing the learning Rocking our strengths Critical thinking   This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season!   We’re here to show you how to:   Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing.   If you have felt unwelcome in other spaces, we hope you feel welcome here.    LTWs  Maren:  She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm   Angela: Nature's Way CalmAid Lavender Softgels    You can now pre-order our book!  Our book will be released on June 18th! You can pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children And Parents Thrive" from the following vendors, or wherever books are sold.  Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes & Noble

Join us as we talk about 5 elements of effective learning!    The following 5 elements are foundational to true learning:   Keeping things developmentally appropriate Prioritizing interest led learning Enjoyment  Feeling safe and connected Flowing with free time   This last season of our podcast is for homeschooling parents, traditional school parents, and everyone in between. This is our last season and definitely our best season! We’re here to show you how to: Identify learning opportunities in everything you do, how to celebrate your child’s differences, and how to give yourself and your kids credit for all the things you’re already doing.   LTWs  Maren:  Missed Fortune Podcast   Angela: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver   Connect with us!  Visit our website and follow us on Instagram: @homeschoolunrefined. Follow Maren for ADD, homeschooling, and parent coaching: @alwayslearningwithmaren. Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List. We are listener-supported! Support us on Patreon and get access to our special Q&P (Question and Process) episodes! Our book will be released on June 18th! Pre-order "Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Parents And Children Thrive" wherever books are sold.  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected].

Join us as we talk about all things you should give yourself permission to do in homeschool - change, quit, protect, trust, and say yes. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Love Hard   Angela: Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:09] Maren: hi, we're Mar and Angela of homeschool, unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters, together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling. We're here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic  [00:00:28] Angela: lens. [00:00:30] At Homeschool, unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and BI voices.  [00:00:48] Maren: We are here to encourage and support you. [00:00:51] Whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether all your kids are at home or all your kids are [00:01:00] at school or somewhere in between. Wherever you are on your journey, we are

Join us as we talk with Tanya Faisal all about ADHD and homeschool. We’ll talk about what ADHD actually is, what it can look like, and how we can support our kids. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Wakanda Forever   Angela: Bad Vibes Only by Nora McInerny   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:10] Angela: hi, we are Maren and Angela of homeschool, unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters, together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling. We're here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:29] At Homeschool Under You find, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and bipo voices. We are here to encourage and support you. [00:00:51] Whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether all your kids are at home or all your kids are in school, or somewhere in [00:01:00] between. Wherever you are in your journey, we're the voic

Join us as we talk all about outsourcing in our homeschools with Amir Nathoo, CEO of Outschool. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Hex Performance Laundry Detergent   Angela: Love Is Blind, Season 3   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:10] Angela: Hi, we're Maren and Angela of homeschool, Unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters, together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling. We're here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:29] Maren: At Homeschool Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and  [00:00:44] Angela: bipo voices. We are here to encourage and support you. [00:00:48] Whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether all your kids are at home or all your kids are in school, or somewhere in between. Wherever you are in your [00:01:00] journey, we're the voice in your head telling you, you're doing gre

Join us as we talk all about quirky kids - what they are, what’s great about them and how we can encourage them. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: This American Life Episode #783: Kids These Days   Angela: I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:10] Maren: hi, we're Maren and Angela of homeschool, unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters. Together with our master's degree and 20 years combined homeschooling. We are here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:31] Angela: At Homeschool, Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourselves credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating lgbtq plus and bipo voices.  [00:00:50] Maren: We are here to encourage and support you whether you are a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether all your kids are at [00:01:00] home, or all your kids are in school, or somewhere in between. [00:01:03] Wherever you are

This week, Julie Bogart is back to talk all about changing our minds in parenting and homeschooling.  Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Good Inside by Dr Becky Kennedy   Angela: Calm Aid   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:00] Angela: hi, we are Maren and Angela of Homeschool, Unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters. Together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling. We are here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:29] Maren: At Homeschool, Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to an EL elevating LGBTQ plus and bipo voices.  [00:00:48] Angela: We are here to encourage and support you. [00:00:50] Whether you are a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curr

Join us as we talk to Robyn Robertson about homeschooling, self-directed learning, world schooling and teens. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner   Angela: Libro.fm and All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:00] Maren: Hi, we're Maren and Angela of Homeschool, Unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents, and podcasters, together with our master's degrees in 20 years combined homeschooling. We are here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:29] Angela: At Homeschool Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating LGBTQ Plus and BIPOC Voices.  [00:00:49] Maren: We are here to encourage and support you, whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran. [00:00:55] Whether you love curriculum or you're an unschooler, whether all your kids are at [00:01:00] home or all your kids are in school or somewhere in between, wherever yo

Join us as we talk about what to do when kids push back. When our kids push back, it can look disrespectful, mean or lazy... and their communication can be sub-par. We're here to help you excavate what's underneath that non-preferred behavior and really support you and your kids in getting what you all need. We’ll also talk about if it’s ever ok to push our kids. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Blue Diamond Sweet Thai Chili Almonds   Angela: The Ordinary Peeling Solution   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:09] Hi, we're Maren and Angela of Homeschool, Unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents, and podcasters together. With our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling experience, we're here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:30] At Homeschool, Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing, and learning. Learning differences, mental health, self-care, listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and BIPOC voices

Join us as we talk about creative writing and inspiring our children with Josh Davidson. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Warby Parker   Angela: All You Can Ever Know by Nicole Chung   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:00]  [00:00:08] Maren: Hi, we're Maren and Angela of homeschool, unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters. Together with our master's degree and 20 years combined homeschooling. We are here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic  [00:00:26] Angela: lens. [00:00:27] At Homeschool Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourselves credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self-care, listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and PAC Voices.  [00:00:47] Maren: We are here to encourage and support you. [00:00:51] Whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether all of your kids are at home or all of your kids are in [00:01:00] school or somewhere in between. Wherever you are on your journey, we're the voice in your head

Join us today as we have a conversation with Camille Kirksey, the Intuitive Homeschooler, about what her homeschool life looks like. Fall 2022 Season Sponsors   We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Magnetic Card Wallet Holder   Angela: Dry Erase White Board Sheets   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript [00:00:00] Angela:  [00:00:09] Hi, we're Maren and Angela of homeschool unrefined. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends. Teachers, homeschool parents and podcasters. Together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling, we're here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic lens. [00:00:30] Maren: At Homeschool Unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting, interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and BIPOC Voices. [00:00:51] Angela: We are here to encourage and support you. Whether you're a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're an unschooler. Whether [00:01:00] all y

Maren & Angela are checking in with each other on what's going well, what's hard right now and how their self-care is going. You can listen to the entire episode at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

Join Maren & Angela as they remind you to cut out the noise, adjust your expectations, and embrace your unique homeschool.   Fall 2022 Season Sponsors We are so grateful to our Fall 2022 Season Sponsors. Use the links below for their special offerings:   Blossom & Root and use code HSUnrefined15 for 15% off your purchase   Outschool and use code Unrefined for $20 off your first class    Night Zookeeper for a 7-day, risk-free trial, as well as 50% off an annual subscription  LTWs    Maren: Pomodoro Focus Timer App  Study Bunny App   Angela: Never Have I Ever   Connect with us!  Visit our website  Sign up for our newsletter and get our Top 100 Inclusive Book List We are listener supported! Support us on Patreon Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and see video episodes now on Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela | Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren and @alwayslearningwithmaren  Email us any questions or feedback at [email protected]   Complete Episode Transcript   [00:00:00] Maren: Hi, we're Maren and Angela of homeschool under fine. And we are here to keep homeschool simple, real, and fun. Over the past 25 years, we've been friends, teachers, homeschool, parents, and podcasters together with our master's degrees and 20 years combined homeschooling. We are here to rethink homeschooling, learning, and education with an inclusive and authentic  [00:00:34] Angela: lens. [00:00:36] At homeschool unrefined, we prioritize things like giving yourself credit, building strong connections, respectful parenting interest led playing and learning, learning differences, mental health, self care, and listening to and elevating LGBTQ plus and BI voices.  [00:00:56] Maren: We are here to encourage and support you, whether you're [00:01:00] a new homeschooler, a veteran, you love curriculum, you're

For our Patreon September Q&P, we answered this question from Michelle: Have you done an episode on kids and social media? How do you make decisions on when your kids are ready for it and what type of conversations/actions do you take to help them be physically and emotionally safe on the apps? To hear the rest of this conversation, sign up for Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined To get our FREE Inclusive Booklist, go to https://www.homeschoolunrefined.com/newsletter Our new Fall 2022 Season starts Monday September 26th!

Maren & Angela are checking in with each other on what's going well, what's hard right now and how their self-care is going. You can listen to the entire episode at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

Today we process through this question from a listener: I'd love to hear more about neurodivergence and homeschooling. I have one (probably) neurotypical kid and one who is neurodivergent. Things that would be great to hear about: evaluations/diagnosis, support kids with different needs, how not to feel so alone when you have a kid who can't do typical homeschool things (it's hard to find meaningful connections when a lot of groups don't work for us). I know a lot of this can apply to any kid, but anything you want to share about neurodivergence and homeschool would be welcome! To hear the entire conversation, go to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #1!   To find out more about the Back To School Summit, you can either head to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined or our website at homeschoolunrefined.com/summit   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #1: Where We Empower Kids to Self-Evaluate This episode originally aired on September 10, 2018.   This week, we dive into the vital skill of self-evaluating.  We hone in on why it’s so good and how we do it (or how we WANT to do it more).  We also think of some good examples of what it looks like when there is successful self-evaluation happening.  As always, we have a fun chat to start out the episode, and we end with our LTWs (Loving This Weeks).      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | <a href="https://booksh

We've been feeling the need for a conversation on our summer expectations for our families and how we're letting summer just be what it wants to be. We came into this summer with ideas and plans and routines and rules for our kids. We talk honestly about how summer has turned out differently than what we expected and how that's okay. We  hope this resonates with you! To listen to this entire conversation, go to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #2!   To find out more about the Back To School Summit, you can either head to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined or our website at homeschoolunrefined.com/summit   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #2: The Reluctant Learner This episode originally aired on November 1, 2021.   “How do I get my kid to ____?” "Why won't my child _____?" Have you ever found yourself asking those questions? (We’ve all been there!) We’re devoting a whole episode to this very common homeschool and parenting dilemma. Whether you're getting reluctance about a school subject, a household chore, or even a fun extracurricular activity, we’ll break down why your child might be reluctant and what to do about it. And some of our suggestions might surprise you!        It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on <a href= "https://www.patreon.c

Welcome to our mid-summer check in where we talk about a couple of LTW's and our Back to School Summit! Hello Homeschool Unrefined Listeners! We hope summer is treating you well and that you are enjoying our Best of Homeschool Unrefined countdown. We know that summer as a homeschooler often means thinking and planning for fall back to school time. We’ve been thinking about all of you too during this time and want you to know - We’ve got you! with a couple of different opportunities. First of all, we’re re-releasing our Back To School Summit, which is a 3 part audio series designed to equip and inspire you as you are planning to go back to school. Each class is about an hour long and has accompanying pdfs and partner episodes to get you feeling confident about your year.  In addition to the 3 classes, we’re including our Curriculum Guide and App Guide as well all bundled together in one package. The way to get this Back To School Summit is to join us on Patreon at the $5 level because Patrons get it for free. But wait, there’s more!  We are have also decided to expand on our Back To School Summit by creating 3 more LIVE classes. Our first class is coming soon - August 4th from 7-8 pm central and is called A Quick Start Guide to Launching Your Year. This is for new and experienced homeschoolers and will be just that, an easy way to get your year off the ground so you’re all ready to go for fall. The next two classes will be in Sept and October and will be about Learning Differences + Mental Health and then Elementary, Middle and High School. So you can look forward to that. If you can’t make it, they’ll be recoded and you can watch or listen later. In order to get these new 3 expanded classes AND continuous LIVE monthly classes, you can join us at the $10 level on patreon. There are lots of other patreon benefits as well for $5 and $10 supporters like we’re bringing back our patreon only FB group, two extra monthly episodes and first to know news and announcements. To find out more, you can either head to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined or our website at homeschoolunrefined.com/summit We’ll of course put those links in the show notes. We know back to school time can be exciting and also sometimes stressful. We want you to know we understand and we’re here to support you. We can get through it together!

In Patreon this week we're talking all about what we're currently loving from movies to tv to books to products. To listen to this entire conversation, go to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined To get the Back To School Summit, please join us on Patreon at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #3!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #3: Where We Confess Our Biggest Homeschool Mistake This episode originally aired on March 19, 2018.   It's time to confess! In this episode Angela and Maren divulge the one thing they wish they could do over.  As usual, they do this with lots of grace.  Listen in to hear what they are working to change on their journey.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFV6A

We're so excited to share this episode! In Patreon this week, Angela's 17 year old joins us for a conversation about being a formerly homeschooled teen now going into her senior year in public school. We talk about all that and much more. To listen to the entire conversation, go to patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #4!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #4: A Harmonious Homeschool This episode originally aired on November 9, 2020.   We see these comments pop up in every homeschool Facebook group: "How do I get my kid to do their work?" "My kid is fighting with me about doing math." "Homeschool is hurting my relationships with my kids." Homeschool doesn't have to be contentious, and burnout isn't the inevitable outcome of homeschooling. So how can we begin to homeschool in harmony? Join us as we explore the ways we're creating a harmonious homeschool experience for ourselves and our kids.   Takeaways -We often feel the tension of playing two roles: parent and teacher. At our best, we're in only ONE role: parent.   -No one is enjoying homeschool if you and your kids are grinding your way through it.   -As a homeschool parent, we have freedom to do things differently from a teacher in a classroom.   -The thing your child is most interested in is the thing they're going to learn the most about.   -There are non-negotiable things we want our kids to learn. But we can let go of WHEN and HOW they learn those things.   -Learn to recognize the signals when a learning experience is taking a negative turn BEFORE it gets to the point of yelling, crying, frustration.   -Our kids need to know that their voice and their feelings matter, and we can listen when they're telling us they need to stop or something isn't working.   -Kids have bad days, too. They might have another need that needs to be met before they can sit down and learn. They might need a new approach/curriculum/time of day for a subject.   -It's our KIDS and their plans/ideas that often create the best and most magical learning moments.   -We want our kids to come into a learning experience with their cups of connection filled up!      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're

Welcome to our monthly Patreon episode where we process what's going well, what's hard right now and how our self-care is going. We talk specifically about: being the good kind of busy summer routines when your kid just isn't that into you (right now) Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

In Patreon this week, Maren & Angela are processing through a handful of homeschool questions, rapid-fire style. These are such GREAT questions - we loved them. Thanks for sending them in.    If YOU have any questions for us, please ask away. A comment or dm will work! Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #5!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #5: Where We Give Ourselves Credit This episode originally aired on January 8, 2018.   In this episode, we reflect on how much of the work we do as homeschooling parents is intangible and not easily measured or noticed.  We talk all about why it is important to give ourselves credit for all that we're doing. Parents, you are working so hard and deserve all the acknowledgment and praise! We're here to give that to you.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, <a href= "https://twitter.com/hsu

In Patreon this week, Maren and Angela start off with a some quick processing of Angela's Europe trip and then move on to our LTW's for the week. This episode is packed with recommendations for shows, books, podcasts, clothes and more! Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #6!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #6: Where We Begin with Deschooling This episode originally aired on January 27, 2020.   So, like, what even is deschooling?! The fact is this: We are immersed in a schooled mindset. It's the air we breathe, the water we swim in. Deschooling is a way to reprogram our thinking about learning.  We're going to talk through this essential homeschooling tool: What is it? Why bother? What does it actually look like? And what comes next?   Highlights from this episode: Learning is natural and happening all the time. Deschooling doesn't mean it's a free for all.  Deschooling lets us concentrate on connection.  Deschooling teaches us that deep thinking is deep thinking--it doesn't matter if it's about math or Minecraft. Don't use your status as an adult as a weapon. As parents, we are continually deschooling ourselves.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on <a href= "https://www.pa

In Patreon this week, Maren sits down for a chat with her mom, Peggy Jones. Peggy is a life-long learner and just a hoot! She has always been exploring and has taken on many roles in education throughout her years. Listen in to hear some fun stories and learn how Peggy's experiences has shown her how children learn best! This conversation just might be the highlight of your week.

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #7!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #7: Where Audiobooks Count This episode originally aired on February 24, 2020.   "Do audiobooks count?" We're here to shout it from the rooftops: YES! Listening to audiobooks, or "ear-reading" as it's also known, is a valuable and legitimate form of reading, with some of its own unique benefits not found with eye-reading. Let's demystify the idea of eye-reading superiority and celebrate all the amazing things about ear-reading and audiobooks!   We'll each be sharing our Top 10 audiobooks for kids in a bonus episode for our Squad on Patreon. That's 20 audiobooks total! Hop on over to Patreon to get this bonus episode and alllll the other rewards.   Highlights from this episode:  -Listening to audiobooks can help readers develop a writing voice, understand sentence structure, boost their vocabulary, make connections with abstract thinking and metaphors, and learn naturally some elements of writing that might get missed with eye reading. -Audiobooks are a way to help more people experience the joy of books. Eye-reading is not accessible for everyone. Plus, audiobooks can be a perfect match for differently wired kids or readers with non-visual learning styles. -Audiobooks can help our readers to know that reading is fun, especially when eye-reading is difficult.  -Hearing stories can help build scaffolding and support for readers as they work toward eye-reading.  -Ear-reading exposes readers to more genres and more information at an earlier age. This can help readers grow their love of books. -Audiobooks can give our kids the best example of reading: the best narrators, the best pronunciation of words, the best way to read the story as it is written.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on <a href= "htt

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #8!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #8: What We Don't Do This episode originally aired on May 15, 2017.   Having a Don't Do list is just as important as having a To Do List and today we are hashing that all out.  In order to do the things you love to do, there are going to be things you can't do.  What things are on your Don't Do list so that you can do the things you love?      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and <a href= "https://www.y

You’re in for a treat today! Angela is talking with her sister Andrea all about homeschooling and other fun stuff. Andrea is a longtime homeschooling parent to two kids ages 12 and 9, living in Florida. They talk about why Andrea homeschools, the curriculum she uses, how they find community, how she takes care of herself and more. They also talk about what Andrea’s reading, watching and listening to. Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #9!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #9: Where We Make It Fun This episode originally aired on September 3, 2018.   We are reminding ourselves to take joy in the beginning of the school year! We’re going to prioritize connection first, not our to-do list. Learning happens best when everyone’s in a good mood and feels loved. In this episode we talk all about how important it is to have fun as a family, and we share what we’re doing to make that happen this year.      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, <a href= "https://twitter.

This is our monthly LTW Extra episode where we talk about ALL the things we're currently loving.  Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined

We're sharing some of the most-loved episodes from our archives. Here's #10!   We do two episodes a week—this is our free one. Join us on Patreon to unlock a NEW episode every week for just $5/month!   #10: Where We Think Differently About Homeschool This episode originally aired on March 25, 2019.   Most of us want a homeschool experience that's more than just school at home. But it can be overwhelming, even scary, to change our entire mindset about learning and schooling. So we're talking about what it means, why it's important, and how empowering it can be to think differently about homeschool. Plus, we share what we DO do in a typical homeschool day with our own kids, ages 8-14. Listen in and get ready to think differently about homeschool!      It's all happening on Patreon! You can always get new content on Patreon! Join our $5 Squad on Patreon to get an extra episode every week. Every month, you'll get 2 Listener Q&P (Question & Process) Episodes, an LTW Extra episode, and a monthly check-in where we get real about what's going well, what's hard right now, and what we're doing for self-care. You'll also get plugged into our community of like-minded parents for support, encouragement, and fun!   More About Homeschool Unrefined We are an inclusive and nonsectarian podcast. We believe Black Lives Matter, and we are LGBTQ+ affirming (for more, read our piece on Romper). We are listener supported and are donating 10% of all Patreon income and product sales to The Conscious Kid, a Black and Brown-led organization that has been instrumental in our own evolution and in leading the way in both ideological and tangible change with their work in “parenting and education through a critical race lens." Read our full ABAR Statement here and on Instagram.   Connect with us!  Visit our website | Sign up for our newsletter. | Support us on Patreon. | bookshop.org Follow us on Facebook, <a hre

In this episode we talk all about everyone's favorite topic - screens and devices. Spoiler Alert: We're struggling! Listen in as we process through how we got here and how we're trying to make things better.    Subscribe and listen to the full episode now at patreon.com/homeschoolunrefined.