Gather Round FamilyIf you feel like you’re constantly searching for the “right” homeschool curriculum, this might be why.
For years, I reviewed homeschool curriculum to help families find the best option. But over time, I started to see a pattern: instead of creating clarity, it was often creating more confusion, more comparison, and more pressure to find something “better.”
Most homeschool moms aren’t struggling because they chose the wrong curriculum. They’re struggling because they’re trying to piece together too much—too many subjects, too many levels, and too many expectations.
In this video, I’m sharing:
• why I stepped away from curriculum reviews • how comparison keeps you stuck and second-guessing • what actually leads to homeschool burnout • what works instead (and how to simplify your approach)
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, behind, or unsure if you’re doing enough, this will help you reset and move forward with more clarity and peace. You don’t need more options—you need less.
This shift is exactly why I created Gather ’Round Homeschool—a complete, multi-age curriculum designed to help you teach all your kids together (math available separately).
Why I Stopped Reviewing Homeschool CurriculumGather Round Family2026-03-26 | If you feel like you’re constantly searching for the “right” homeschool curriculum, this might be why.
For years, I reviewed homeschool curriculum to help families find the best option. But over time, I started to see a pattern: instead of creating clarity, it was often creating more confusion, more comparison, and more pressure to find something “better.”
Most homeschool moms aren’t struggling because they chose the wrong curriculum. They’re struggling because they’re trying to piece together too much—too many subjects, too many levels, and too many expectations.
In this video, I’m sharing:
• why I stepped away from curriculum reviews • how comparison keeps you stuck and second-guessing • what actually leads to homeschool burnout • what works instead (and how to simplify your approach)
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, behind, or unsure if you’re doing enough, this will help you reset and move forward with more clarity and peace. You don’t need more options—you need less.
This shift is exactly why I created Gather ’Round Homeschool—a complete, multi-age curriculum designed to help you teach all your kids together (math available separately).
Topics covered: homeschool curriculum, how to homeschool, homeschool for beginners, homeschool schedule, homeschooling multiple ages, simple homeschooling.Are We Preparing Kids for Todays World?Gather Round Family2026-06-12 | Many schools were designed to teach students how to follow directions. But in today's world, the people who thrive are often the ones who can think for themselves, solve problems, and create new opportunities.Do homeschooled kids have a stronger sense of identity because they aren’t constantly trying to fitGather Round Family2026-05-25 | Watch the full YouTube video here: youtube.com/watch?v=YXqeDGGalM0&t=2sAre we letting AI answer questions that were meant to bring us closer to God?Gather Round Family2026-05-22 | ...I Didnt Ask God . . . I Asked ChatGather Round Family2026-05-14 | This has been on my heart for a while. This video isn't about the dangers of AI, or concerns over who is feeding it information . . . instead this is all about a real problem that snuck up on me when I wasn't even looking for it.
Maybe we have it all wrong. Maybe we're so busy looking for a lurking monster in the corner that we're missing the deception that has already happened. AI is faster than God. Why wait for answers we already have? If we thought that our "fast food" culture where we can get it now was impacting our faith before . . . it doesn't hold a candle to this new problem that most people aren't even aware of.
There is a better answer, my friend! A truer answer. A more complete answer that is more relevant. It may take some waiting . . . but it comes with a whole lot of confidence.
Let's talk about Chat GPT in the life of a believer.Real Homeschool Family (Unscripted) | Episode 1Gather Round Family2026-04-28 | If you’ve ever wondered what homeschooling looks like behind the pretty influencer moments—this is it.
In this first episode, we’re inviting you into our family. No scripts, no perfect answers—just a real look at who we are, what we value, what we enjoy, and why we chose this path.
We talk about what led us to homeschooling, what daily life actually looks like, and what you can expect from this podcast moving forward. Whether you’re new to homeschooling, considering it, or deep in it already, we hope this feels like sitting down with friends who get it.
In the next few episodes, we’ll be diving into: – why we don't "shelter" our kids – why we moved to the US and what the transition was like – life in an RV
If you’re looking for something real, practical, and rooted in what matters most—you’re in the right place.
Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s coming next.We’re Changing Things (But Not How You Think)Gather Round Family2026-04-22 | If you’ve been here for homeschool content, that’s not going away. But we are shifting something.
Homeschooling is amazing: we believe in it and are passionate about it, but we feel like it is bigger than just "education". For us, homeschooling is about the family. We've watched the conversations, the challenges, the connection, and the day-to-day produce something really special and to me, this is the biggest selling feature for the whole movement.
Aside from that, as our kids have grown, this has become less about Rebecca and more about the family, so we’re opening that up more.
You’ll still see homeschool here. But you’ll also see more of our actual life—conversations with our kids, podcast-style videos, the hard parts, the good parts, and everything in between. Less just “what we’re doing,” and more of why it matters and what it actually looks like to live it out.
If you’ve ever felt like homeschool can start to take over instead of support your family, this shift might resonate with you.
We’re figuring this out as we go, and we’re glad you’re here for it.
You can follow along more behind the scenes here: instagram.com/gatherroundfamilyHow to Teach Your Child to Read (Without Tears or Pressure)Gather Round Family2026-04-21 | Teaching your child to read can feel like a lot. If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure, this might help shift things.How to Teach Your Child to Read (Without Tears or Pressure)Gather Round Family2026-04-21 | Teaching your child to read can feel like one of the most overwhelming parts of homeschooling. There’s a lot of pressure, a lot of opinions, and a constant question in the back of your mind . . . “Am I doing this right?”
In this video, I’m walking through a simpler way to approach reading that removes pressure, focuses on readiness, and helps you support your child in a way that feels calm and natural (yes, even if you are dealing with a learning challenge)
We’ll talk about what actually helps kids learn to read, what often creates unnecessary stress, and how to approach this in a way that builds confidence for both you and your child.
Source: apa.org/monitor/2024/09/dyslexia-mythsHomeschooling One Child (No One Talks About This)Gather Round Family2026-04-16 | If you’re homeschooling one child and trying to navigate it all, I get it. You’re not alone. Watch the full video here: youtube.com/watch?v=izj9qYr65K4Homeschooling One Child (No One Talks About This)Gather Round Family2026-04-16 | 0:00 Homeschooling One Child 0:40 Common Questions and Concerns 1:18 What This Video Covers 1:26 Shifting Your Role as the Parent 2:44 Being Intentional with Socialization 5:19 Avoiding Overdependence 7:27 Teaching Self-Motivation 9:09 Managing Expectations and Pressure 10:44 Encouragement for Homeschooling One Child 12:05 Using Gather Round with One Student 13:03 Final Thoughts
Homeschooling one child can come with its own challenges that people don’t talk about enough. It can feel lonely at times. The pressure can feel heavier because there’s no built-in sibling dynamic, and some days it may feel like everything depends on you.
In this video, I’m talking honestly about what makes homeschooling one child unique, why it can feel harder than people expect, and what helped shift my perspective. If you’re homeschooling one child and wondering if what you’re doing is enough, this video is for you.
Need a place to start? Check out a free sample of one of our units and see how child-directed learning works when you can run with their interests! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/pages/samplesThis Wont WorkGather Round Family2026-04-10 | We’re preparing our kids for a world that doesn’t exist anymore. The way we were taught to learn doesn’t match the world our kids are stepping into. Full video linked in the comments.👇Were Preparing Our Kids for a World that Doesnt Exist AnymoreGather Round Family2026-04-10 | 0:00 Why Our Kids Are Being Prepared for the Wrong World 0:09 Schools Were Built for the Industrial Age 0:42 Information Is No Longer the Advantage 1:28 Grades Matter Less Than Real Life Skills 2:30 Kids Are Losing the Ability to Persevere 3:32 Why Interest-Based Learning Works 4:44 The Future of Work Has Changed 5:42 What Parents Are Really Looking For 6:19 Why I Created Gather ’Round Homeschool 7:13 A Better Way to Prepare Kids for Life
One of the biggest shifts we’re facing as parents right now is this: We’re preparing our kids for a world that doesn’t exist anymore.
For decades, education was built around a system that rewarded compliance, memorization, and following a clear path. And for a long time, that worked. But the world our kids are stepping into is different. Information is no longer the advantage. Grades don’t guarantee real-world readiness. And the ability to think, adapt, and take initiative matters more than ever.
So the real question becomes: What should we actually be preparing our kids for?
In this video, I walk through: – Why the traditional model is no longer enough – What skills actually matter now – And what a different approach to learning can look like
If you’ve been feeling that tension—like something about the way we’ve always done school doesn’t quite fit anymore—you’re not alone. That tension is exactly what led me to create Gather ’Round Homeschool.
Instead of disconnected subjects and checklists, it’s designed to: – Build real-life skills – Encourage critical thinking – Foster creativity and conversation – Help kids engage deeply with what they’re learning
I’d love to hear your thoughts— How do we prepare our kids for a world that’s constantly changing?Rethinking Homeschooling: Beyond Grades and GPAs #shortsGather Round Family2026-04-07 | Is the goal of homeschooling just smart kids? We're conditioned to measure success by GPAs and grades. But do these truly define success in adult life? Rethink what truly matters. #Homeschooling #Parenting #Education #SuccessMindset #LifeSkillsWeve Defined Homeschool Success WrongGather Round Family2026-04-07 | 0:00 What Is Real Success in Homeschooling 0:50 What Actually Matters More Than Academics 2:11 Why Families Leave Traditional School 3:09 Personal Homeschool Experience 4:13 Rethinking Success Metrics 5:35 Why Homeschooling Is Different 7:01 The Problem with Performance-Based Identity 8:10 The Better Goal for Homeschooling 9:08 The Identity Crisis in Today’s Culture 10:07 Building Identity in Your Kids 11:13 Raising Independent Thinkers 12:38 The Importance of Character 13:25 Measuring What Actually Matters 14:17 Final Encouragement
Most of us started homeschooling for a reason. But somewhere along the way, it’s easy to slip back into the same question everyone else is asking:
Are they keeping up? Are they ahead? Are they “smart enough”? But was that really the goal all along?
Research shows that long-term success isn’t driven by IQ alone—it’s shaped by things like resilience, self-control, relationships, and a strong sense of identity. In fact, studies like the Dunedin Study have found that self-regulation in childhood is a stronger predictor of life outcomes than intelligence.
So the real question becomes: What are we actually investing in? Because you can have a child who performs well on paper . . . and still struggles to handle real life.
In this video, we’re talking about what truly defines success in homeschooling—and why shifting this one perspective changes everything.
If you’re feeling the pressure to measure your homeschool by grades, progress, or comparison, this will help you step back and refocus on what actually matters.
I share the shift that changed everything in the full video: youtube.com/watch?v=u9OftTuu3WsI Thought Homeschooling Was a MistakeGather Round Family2026-04-02 | 0:00 Feeling like you’re failing at homeschooling 0:25 The weight of unrealistic expectations 0:50 Why we think we need to be perfect 1:30 Searching for the “right” solution 2:05 Why homeschooling feels chaotic 2:30 Stop trying to replicate school at home 3:00 Who are you really doing this for? 3:40 Letting go of outside pressure 4:30 The true gift of homeschooling 5:45 Why kids develop differently at home 6:30 Stepping outside the “system” 7:30 Preparing your kids for the real world 8:15 Encouragement for hard seasons 9:00 You are not failing 9:30 Try a different approach (free sample)
If homeschooling has ever made you feel like you’re failing . . . you’re not alone. There were nights I sat down and thought, “What if this was a mistake?” What if I couldn’t do this? What if I left a gap I couldn’t fix? For a long time, I thought the chaos meant I wasn’t doing enough. But what I didn’t realize was this: I wasn’t failing—I was trying to recreate something that was never meant to exist at home.
In this video, I walk through the shift that changed everything for me—and why homeschooling feels so overwhelming when we’re measuring it against the wrong expectations. If you’ve been stuck in that cycle of pressure, comparison, and trying to “get it right,” this is for you.
Homeschooling doesn’t have to feel chaotic. This video covers homeschooling overwhelm, homeschool expectations, and how to create a homeschool rhythm that actually works.We Turned Education Into an Idol (Here’s How It Happens)Gather Round Family2026-03-31 | If homeschooling feels overwhelming, you might need a shift in your perspective. In this video, I’m talking about something we don’t usually say out loud. Somewhere along the way, education became something it was never meant to be, and that shift is what’s creating so much pressure for so many families.
We’ve been taught to focus on performance, outcomes, and information, but that’s not what actually leads to lasting learning or meaningful growth. When we elevate education above its purpose, it doesn’t produce peace or confidence . . . it produces pressure, comparison, and the constant feeling of being behind. And it truly isn't the best way to educate!
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, unsure if you’re doing enough, or like you’re constantly trying to keep up . . . this will help you reset and see things differently.
If you want to see what this looks like in real life, I’ve linked a free lesson below so you can actually experience it for yourself. Start here: gatherroundhomeschool.com/samplesWe’re not teaching kids how to thinkGather Round Family2026-03-31 | ...This is why Homeschooling Feels so HardGather Round Family2026-03-28 | If you feel like you’re constantly behind in your homeschool, I want you to hear this . . . you’re not alone and you're not failing. What you need is not another system, it's a mindset shift that can change everything.
As promised, a starting point. See just how amazing it is to do family-style learning together (all your subjects, all your grades): gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
For a long time, I thought teaching multiple ages meant more work, more juggling, more pressure. Different kids, different levels, different subjects . . . it felt like I was constantly bouncing back and forth and never really getting anywhere.
But the more I’ve stepped back and looked at how learning actually works, the more I’ve realized something I didn’t expect . . . teaching multiple ages might actually be the advantage.
When we separate everything into subjects and levels, we lose the context that makes learning stick. But when we bring it together . . . when kids are learning alongside each other, discussing, connecting, and even teaching one another . . . something changes.
In this video, I’m walking through how to homeschool multiple ages in a way that actually works in real life. Not more systems, not more pressure . . . a simpler approach that helps your kids learn better and helps you stop feeling like you’re constantly behind.
We’ll talk about: • why traditional homeschool structures don’t work for multiple ages • how to teach multiple kids at different levels together • what to combine and what to keep separate • a simple daily rhythm that works for real families • how to make learning stick through context and connection
If you’re homeschooling multiple ages, trying to build a schedule, or feeling overwhelmed by too many subjects and expectations, this will give you a completely different way to approach it.
You don’t need more curriculum. You don’t need a better system. You need something simpler that actually works.
This is the approach behind Gather ’Round Homeschool . . . a unit study style curriculum designed to help you teach all your kids together (math available separately), simplify your days, and make learning meaningful and connected.
If you’re looking for homeschool help, homeschool tips, or a better way to teach multiple ages without burnout, start here and see what this could look like in your home.
Let me know in the comments . . . what feels like “too much” right now?I used to review curriculum, and I think it was making things harder.Gather Round Family2026-03-26 | You’re not behind… you’re just doing too much. Watch the full video here: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Yma0tZz8QZwHow Do I Know Its Enough?Gather Round Family2021-01-28 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
I did this session for our Gather 'Round convention last year and have had so many requests to post it for the whole community that I finally did it! These are (just a few of) my thoughts about the question: How do I know it's enough?
I know we're all different, with different goals and perspectives. This is my answer based on my experience and my heart for homeschooling. It might not be yours and that's okay. But it is my prayer that it encourages someone out there who is feeling frazzled (like my hair in this video) or maybe uncertain if they are cut out for this.
You can do this. Your kids are going to be fine. Character over content. Heart over mind.
If the unit study ideas I shared intrigued you, check out the curriculum I made that is designed to work from kindergarten to grade 12 for all ages and interests at their targeted level: http://gatherroundhomeschool.com
#homeschool #homeschooling #homeschoolon #gatherroundhomeschoolAnnouncements and updates...Gather Round Family2020-06-10 | In this week's live video I will be sharing some news and updates about what is coming both this summer as well as next year. The replay will be posted if you cannot join live.Take a Professional Day: Lets Talk HomeschoolingGather Round Family2020-04-29 | Anything goes in this live: Q&A, homeschool challenges and how to overcome them, real life, messy, probably some screaming kids, who knows what will happen. Bring coffee ;)Who I AmGather Round Family2020-02-13 | Welcome! Lately I have been feeling like my community/tribe here maybe doesn't truly know me or what I stand for. I am so passionate about offering value, truly helping and encouraging, and being so much more than just another voice in the crowd. I want to be more than just reviews and more than 2 minute tips, I want to share who I am and what I have learned and run with the passion that God has given me. I have been debating how best to do that, and praying about what God has for this platform He has given me and I feel like I want to go a new direction. Today's live is all about my heart, it is a disclaimer about who I am and what I stand for, it is direction and focus for these communities and what I want to make them and an invitation to join me or to part ways if you feel like I no longer represent what you are looking for.
Here goes...How I Made My Own Homeschooling Curriculum | The Story of Gather Round HomeschoolGather Round Family2019-11-14 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
If you haven't heard the news, in the last few months I have created a brand new curriculum/style of homeschooling. It combines the excitement of a unit study with the principles of Charlotte Mason and the ease of teaching all your kids--all their subjects---together. One teachers guide, 6 different levels of books tailored to your child.
This is part of a series of videos I am doing about Gather 'Round Homeschool. This first one is the story behind it, next up is the philosophy behind it and what makes it different than anything else that is out there, and finally we'll do some flip throughs showing you how it works.
If you are feeling frazzled, trying to balance it all, or just curious... this video is my testimony of how God gave me a bigger dream than I could ever imagine. Despite my failings, despite my humanity... He is faithful.
Get a free sample: http://gatherroundhomeschool.comThe Top 10 Homeschool History Comparison Review (Social Studies | Geography)Gather Round Family2019-10-18 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Looking for homeschool history, geography, or social studies curriculum for your kids? In this video I show you inside 10 popular homeschool history curriculum, talk about who it will work for and price points for each to help make curriculum shopping a little bit easier!
Don't have time to watch the whole video? No prob! Just click on the time codes below to skip to a particular curriculum you've been eyeing, each look inside is about 2-3 minutes long.
Missing Mystery of History but if you want to check it out: brightideaspress.comOrganizing my Homeschool and Business with The Original Scrapbox DreamBoxGather Round Family2019-08-09 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
A long time ago, in one of my random scrolling episodes on Facebook, I happened upon a video. Like Chronicles of Narnia, a wardrobe was opened and inside was a magical place of organization and beauty! They had sewing supplies and scrapbooking supplies inside but all I saw was homeschooling supplies and journaling supplies and ways to make my business run more efficiently. In short, I fell in love and spent hours watching videos (and benignly showing my husband) dreaming of the day that something like that would be possible for me.
When the amazing team over at The Original Scrapbox responded to my request to review the DreamBox in a homeschool scenario, I was ecstatic. I told my husband that we had to remodel our entire basement (which was, at the time unfinished and ugly) to make a home for it. Yes, I got the DreamBox in exchange for my review, but let me just finish that sentence with the fact that we spent more on our remodel than the cost of the box! Ironic, no?
PLUS don't miss my exclusive coupon code: HSON (gets you $100 off)
You can also see a blog post where I show you through a photo tour of the box on my blog: homeschoolon.com/original-scrapbox-dreamboxLook Inside More Than Words Bible Curriculum by Rebecca SpoonerGather Round Family2019-08-01 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
One of the most surreal experiences of my life is doing a review of my own curriculum! More Than Words level 1 is a Bible curriculum that I wrote through Masterbooks. Level 1 is geared for grades K-3 but is being used by kids from 5-10 years old.
Level 2 is coming, along with 3 (middle school) and 4 (high school).
This video is a snapshot of my heart behind it, how to use it, a flip through of the pages, and a little more info on the next level that is coming soon!
Charlotte Mason inspired, a morning basket in a book, this Bible curriculum can be used independently or as a family. It can be used in a Sunday school setting or even as a children's devotional!
Sold at http://masterbooks.com, Christian Book, Amazon, CHER and Learning House in Canada, and Barnes and Noble! If you are in Canada, contact me for a signed copy shipped from a fellow Canadian!
GIVEAWAY: Every month I will choose a winner to get a $25 Amazon gift card based on people who have posted reviews on Christian book, Barnes and Noble or Amazon. So post your review and email it to me at rebecca@homeschoolon.com (copy and paste it in multiple places for multiple entries). I'll email you if you win!The Top 10 Homeschool Science Curriculum Comparison Video for ElementaryGather Round Family2019-06-28 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Homeschool Science Curriculum laid out for you with inside flip-throughs, prices, and approach. If you are looking for homeschool science curriculum for elementary, this video will help give you an idea of what is out there and what may be a good fit!
Below is a simple time code skip tool so you can click on the time code and go to the section you are most interested in. All the links are also listed below as well as any relevant coupon codes.
The blog post is coming next week with mini video clips if you prefer to skip and read/watch what is the most interesting. So stay tuned!2 Generations of Homeschoolers Talk About The Benefits of HomeschoolingGather Round Family2019-06-20 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
I had so much fun interviewing my mom for a video series full of helpful tips from both of us. My mom homeschooled her 6 kiddos for over 25 years :o She shares what she has learned along the way and what she sees as the greatest benefits. I, being homeschooled and homeschooling myself for 8 years, share from my perspective both as a homeschooled child and a homeschooler.
If you have questions, post them below! We'd love to hear from you and we have more videos coming to make sure to subscribe so you don't miss them!
Want more encouragement? Check out my blog: http://homeschoolon.com Or follow me on my favorite platform, Instagram: http://instagram.com/homeschoolonThe Lazy Moms Guide to Summer School (Funny Reading Eggs Commercial)Gather Round Family2019-06-20 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Every year you guys, every year I say I am going to school through the summer. And yet every year life just get's away from me: parades and events and camping and vacations and on and on we go. These days it is pretty much 30 minutes on the iPad and I'm calling it good. They are at least getting a refresh in reading/LA and math and it keeps us going through the summer plus I can bring it anywhere, do it in the car, etc.
If you haven't tried this... you need to! And you can get a 4 week trial of BOTH Reading Eggs and Mathseeds for the entire fam (no CC required) and basically check off homeschooling this summer ;)
You're welcome!
Snag the trial: readingeggs.com/hson12Your Assumptions About Me | Homeschool Myths vs. Reality | What People Assume About HomeschoolingGather Round Family2019-06-18 | As a homeschool mom I think people make a lot of assumptions. They see the picture you post and either judge you or assume that you have it all together. A few weeks ago I asked on in my Instagram stories what your greatest assumptions about me were... you answered.
I had so much fun reading through your assumptions and answering them in this video. I hope that it is a fun way to get to know me more, but also see that
A) There is more than meets the eye B) I am far from perfect
What do you think people assume about homeschooling? Post it below!
I used to homeschool in a tiny little room barely big enough for a table though in all fairness, we usually ended up doing school at the kitchen table. Small space homeschooling was hard. Our books were strewn, homeschool supplies got lost and ruined from being carted all over the house. So when I stumbled on the Original Scrapbox Dreambox I saw homeschool supplies where everyone had their sewing and art supplies. This could work!
Step 1 was to pitch my husband, to convince him that this could work and devise a plan of where and how. We decided to redo our entire basement in order to make a functional space to homeschool and store all of our supplies and with the help of the Dreambox, our dream became reality.
I am so thankful to the Original Scrapbox for sending us the Dreambox to show you guys and stay tuned for part II of the video where I take you on a tour inside!
The drawer systems are from IKEA, they are the ALEX drawers in white. The table legs are from there, the chalkboards are magnetic and from there, as well as the desk chairs for the kids (which we love and highly recommend).
The desk tops I made myself with just 2x12s that we biscuit joined together, sanded, and stained. At this point they are just resting on top of the desks, I'm still deciding how I want to secure them but so far it works.
The walls and ceiling in the school room look like shiplap but were a lot cheaper because we used tongue and groove pine. It was a ton of work, but we did it ourselves and didn't have to wait/pay for drywall so that was why we did it. We painted it all white and added 6 lights for lots of lighting.
The rug is from wayfair.
The tins on the desks are from Amazon and I'm in love Get them in Canada (referral): amzn.to/2WHbLB2 Get them in the US (referral): amzn.to/2WiHUzd
The mint colored door leads to our spare bedroom as well as our school library. We have 3 cube bookshelves filled with books that are easily accessible for our school day. The room with the Dreambox is just around the corner and also has a couch and will eventually have a TV and our instruments to be a practise area for music, TV/media room/reading corner, etc.
My desk is from Wayfair, as well as my yellow desk chair which my son broke. Don't lean forward or you're going to tip!
I think that is everything! Oh, the chair in the corner is just a frame with some leather over it. I found it randomly at our local Rona hardware store. I am debating making a large chalkboard and putting it on the wall by my desk but I also don't want to cover y beautiful walls more than I need to :o
Thank you to my amazing friend, Ruth-Ann, who came and helped me set up and assemble all the desk drawers and the Dreambox. Thanks to her hubby who came and helped mine with all the pine, the drop ceiling, amongst many other things, thanks to my bro-in-law who put in our lights, to my husband for not killing me when he found out the space I had intended for it in the school room wouldn't work and we had to do the whole basement (hehe), and a HUGE thanks to The Original Scrapbox for sending us the Dreambox to show you guys. I can sit and stare at it and be in my PJs with a disaster house and still feel accomplished, it's magical ;)Top 20 Dollar Tree Homeschool Supplies | Dollar Store Homeschool Haul | Homeschooling on a BudgetGather Round Family2019-05-15 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Top homeschool hacks? Use the dollar store! For real though guys, I went in there with 5 kids begging at my legs the entire time to buy cheap toys and I still managed to savagely throw some "educational goodies" and tools and resources into my basket. This was about 5 minutes of a mad dash to "retreat retreat!" before my kids drove me clinically insane. Some really fun ideas for how to save money homeschooling! It doesn't have to break the bank you guys! This is my dollar store homeschool haul for homeschooling on a budget, what have you found at the dollar store for homeschooling? Post it in the comments!
Most of this stuff I would buy again, a few things I won't use now that I look at them. Let's talk about what is worth buying at the dollar store, and what you should maybe invest a little bit in, PLUS a SUPER AMAZING special deal at the very end (wait for it) for a limited time only!
Add this one to your calendar you guys, you don't want to miss it and I'll be here with you live so we can chat in the comments together over coffee. Parent teacher interview time kids, actually... the kids may enjoy this one ;)
Meet my mom, Bonnie: homeschool mom of 25+ years! She homeschooled me and now I'm homeschooling my own kids!
This week we got together and did a Q&A and answered a bunch of questions, from both our points of view. I have had a ton of people ask to view this on YouTube so here it is, low res and everything because it was made for Facebook, but hey! It's about the message right?
Just a few of the questions we tackled:
Homeschool schedules Homeschool Organization Homeschooling when your kids are behind Our biggest homeschool regrets What we would change if we could do it again (or what we would tell first time homeschoolers) How to teach a struggling reader Our top homeschool tips AND MORE!
This was so much fun! And now my mom is 12 hours from me once again, but this little golden nugget is just too good not to share!
Want more? Subscribe to my channel or come follow me on my blog or social media channels or podcast (I'm everywhere)! I'd love to meet you!
Homeschooling can be challenging and finding a rhythm and flow and finally settling in to homeschool freedom can seem elusive and (some days) impossible. I'm here to help!
As a homeschool mom of 5 kids and someone who was homeschooled herself, I'm here to tell you that this IS possible, not just to survive, but to thrive!
These are my top tips, my top hacks. It is less about organization and things to buy and more about your mindset and perspective. Things like blending your kids, teaching a large family, letting go of the idea that you have to do it all, the comparison trap, and more!
We'll talk about homeschooling on a budget and money saving hacks, time saving hacks, and homeschool strategies that can help make your day run a little bit smoother.
GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE 4 WEEK FREE TRIAL OF READING EGGS and MATHSEEDS: readingeggs.com/hson5
Plus if you want to try the workbooks they released that correspond with the levels, I have a 10% off coupon for a limited time: readingeggsshop.com/workbooks
Coupon code: HSAPR10
Like what you see? Hit subscribe and come find me on my other channels:
The blog: http://homeschoolon.com Instagram (behind the scenes of my life): http://instagram.com/homeschoolon Facebook (live chats): http://facebook.com/homeschoolon Pinterest (hacks I think are cool): http://pinterest.com/homeschoolonGoing to a Homeschool Convention Vlog Day 3Gather Round Family2019-03-30 | The last day of the homeschool convention has been super busy. We have one more session, everyone is trying to fit in last minute sessions and shopping and our convention centre booked another very large event. There are a TON of people here, we have a cheer competition going on and practises happening all around us.
SO hungry, kind of sad this is going to be over soon and can't wait until the next one.
If you want to hear me speak, come on over to a convention near you!
I'll be speaking in Alberta (Red Deer, AHEA) next: April 12 and 13 TTD Atlanta: April 25-27 TTD Denver: May 23-25
Register for Teach Them Diligently: http://homeschoolon.com/go/speaking #TTDnashvilleGoing to a Homeschool Convention Vlog Day 2Gather Round Family2019-03-30 | This year I am speaking in a few homeschool conventions, starting with Teach Them Diligently Nashville. This is our end of day 2 recap. We talk about speaking, meeting some people that I so admire. Oh and kids, if you are watching: we miss you!
If you want to hear me speak, come on over to a convention near you!
I'll be speaking in Alberta (Red Deer, AHEA) next: April 12 and 13 TTD Atlanta: April 25-27 TTD Denver: May 23-25
Register for Teach Them Diligently: http://homeschoolon.com/go/speakingGoing to a Homeschool Convention Vlog series: Day 1Gather Round Family2019-03-29 | This year I am speaking in a few homeschool conventions, starting with Teach Them Diligently Nashville. It was a LONG ways from home in Northern BC, Canada and about 21 hours of travel time to get here. Through an overnight red eye, very little food, and very little sleep we made it. Hear our first impressions and thoughts on travel: airplanes, seat sizes, sickness, and this amazing hotel.
If you want to hear me speak, come on over to a convention near you!
I'll be speaking in Alberta (Red Deer, AHEA) next: April 12 and 13 TTD Atlanta: April 25-27 TTD Denver: May 23-25
Register for Teach Them Diligently: http://homeschoolon.com/go/speaking #TTDnashvilleTop 14 Homeschool Language Arts Comparison ReviewGather Round Family2019-03-26 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Come look inside the top 14 Homeschool Language Arts Curriculum options that are available.
If you need help choosing, I have put together an epic, interactive curriculum quiz. It will take into account your budget, whether you are looking for Christian or secular, whether you have lots of time or are pressed for time and even your child's learning style. There are over 300 recommendations and you can choose based on subject for each of your children. http://homeschoolon.com/the-curriculum-quiz
***This post is NOT sponsored or paid for, I either purchased these programs or was sent them for free as review copies but I am not being paid by any of these companies to give my review. Some links are referral links.Homeschool Math: Moving Beyond the Page Hands On Math Review (6-8)Gather Round Family2019-03-14 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Moving Beyond the Page is a hands on, unit study and literature based curriculum company that is multi-sensory and geared to all learning styles. Their curriculum is secular and a ton of fun and a great option to use with multiple kids together.
They recently released their brand new 6-8 math and sent us a complimentary copy to review for you guys. We have had so much fun trying out this homeschool math curriculum with my 6 year old.
A couple things to note: Moving Beyond the Page is geared for gifted kids so it is important to check out the samples before purchasing. The 6-8 is way above grade 1 level, I would say sitting at more of a grade 2-3 level. My daughter is a bit ahead so she is loving the challenge.
This video will show you a sample lesson, cost, what comes with the kit, who this math will work for and who it won't work for towards the end.
See the Top 10 Math curriculum comparison review: youtu.be/LKs5ayQLN-UA Day in the Life of a Homeschooled 5 Year OldGather Round Family2019-03-07 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
I sat down and asked my 5 year old what she thought of homeschooling. She shares her perspective as a homeschool child, a typical homeschool day, her favorite thing about homeschooling, and more.
I had so much fun with this interview!
If you are new to the homeschool world and looking for support, come on over and take the free quizzes on my blog. I have a free homeschool style quiz, learning style quiz and (Brand new) curriculum quiz with over 300 recommendations! Let me help you get started in this crazy world of homeschooling!
PS- we don't just goof off all day and eat, real education does happen ;)
PPS-the sound changes towards the end, sorry guys, life with a 5 year old, we recorded this twice and I had to splice them together because we lost part of our video. I debating posting this but decided it was too cute not to share.Language Lessons for a Living Education vs. The Good and the Beautiful (A Comparison Review)Gather Round Family2019-01-17 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
The much anticipated comparison review between Language Lessons for a Living Education by Masterbooks and The Good and the Beautiful by Jenny Phillips is here!
This review is broken up into sections. The first half is a detailed look at the two programs (each using the level 2 book) side by side and what sets it apart. The second section is me answer FAQ like what are the faith differences and why we switched and do I think Language Lessons for a Living Education is enough, etc. The last part is a quick look of level 3 of both language arts curriculum side-by-side to give you a glimpse of the style/amount/approach.
My pre-emptive statement for anyone who is LDS who watches this: I say the word Mormon, again. I know you don't like that word but to be honest, I'm a bit confused. I used to have my friends who were Mormon refer to themselves as Mormon. So... sometime in the last 15 years a shift has happened, similar to how the name changed from the church of Latter-Day Saints to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The shift is concerning to me as a Christian, the tactic clear... blur the lines. Secondly, I say it, officially... I do not believe that Mormonism, or the LDS doctrine/Book of Mormon are simply a denomination of Christianity. If you read the additional resources for history on Jenny Phillips website, you will clearly see that the stories and beliefs are VERY different. I believe in an eternal God, not one that was created. I believe that the Holy Spirit, Jesus, and God are one, one God, all parts and yet all individual. The Trinity. The differences are significant and I encourage you to do your own research. My problem is LESS about what is in the curriculum, and more about this hidden message that is coming across: "We are all the same faith." No... no we're not, and that is a big part of why I carry a strong conviction about using this as a Christian, aside from the style and approach differences mentioned above. I tried to keep the main focus on style and approach because to be honest, I think those stand on their own, but this also had to be addressed and I know I will get comments, so this is my official disclaimer. I also have no intention of responding to hateful comments so if that begins to be evident below, you'll notice I stand down. I don't waste my time debating things that are going nowhere. I speak my piece and move on. If you are watching this video just to see my opinion on the faith differences, go to about minute 12.
Disclosure: I received both of these programs for free throughout my blogging journey and have also at one time or another, been paid by both of these companies. This is my honest opinion after my experience with both of them and I now use Masterbooks (probably pretty clear through the video).
I hope that this helps you in your journey to discover which homeschool language arts is going to be the best fit for your family. If you want to read more about this, there are some additional links below to other videos.
Ok let's be honest: homeschool room tours are kind of like a horror show you just can't pull your eyes away from. I mean, the organization, the Ikea bins, the chalkboards, the bookshelves! Everything arranged in glorious cubicle-like perfection, I both hate my room and want to vomit at the same time.
I do not have the luxury of a large space for homeschooling that can fit everything I need. I am a homeschool mom of five kids, that's 5. I work nearly full-time, I have pets, I have friends (not sure why I partnered those with pets, but you know, they need care and attention too!), I have a life outside of homeschooling. So pretty much, my homeschool room suffers... every day.
Come take a peek inside my homeschool room with all the mess, the hair on the floor, the random bits of supplies, the empty bag of chips (wait, what?) and let's talk about real life homeschooling. And seriously, if someone with an immaculate homeschool room wants to come over to my house and have an interview with me, I have some questions for you ;)
If you like what you see, hit subscribe, new videos are coming... when I can. I also have a podcast, a huge Facebook page, a blog I'm pretty attached to, and a book I wrote about organization and planning (ironic, no?). Links are below.
I have 5 kids in 5 different grades. They all need me all the time and we use a LOT of different homeschool curriculum. I am a stay at home mom who has always homeschooled her kids and I love sharing our homeschool routine with you to help you have a better idea of what is a normal, regular homeschool day. In my house, it's chaotic, it's imperfect, it's frustrating at times and it takes a lot of patience... but it's fun and engaging and there is definitely NEVER a dull moment.
Being a working homeschool mom, running my homeschool blog, writing, and managing my home and family is insane. This isn't staged, this is a real life homeschool day. I thought the music was a perfect depiction of the circus it sometimes feels like.
Have you heard that I am writing homeschool Bible curriculum? For K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12! I am SO excited about this and nearly done my first volume and wanted to share a sneak peek with you!
Charlotte Mason inspired, with journaling, copywork, narration, story-based learning, coloring, hymn studies, picture studies, word studies, character study, poetry, and art! This curriculum is a morning basket in a book!
Let me know what you think in the comments!Plan With Me Homeschool Edition: Setting Up My Homeschool Bullet JournalGather Round Family2018-09-19 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
Planning is a big part of my life and while I don't share it with the homeschool community often, I decided to show you how I plan my homeschool days and a sample weekly spread that I did with you.
Where I got my TN:
I do a blend of creative journaling and bullet journaling. You can get either of these Travellers Notebooks at http://speckledfawns.com. Terri is AMAZING. The wallet is called the Brinkley and the A5 soft leather one I am working in is A5 extra wide Rustic Kodiak Deluxe. Brown stitching. Brown elastic. Upright external pocket. Natural edge and rivets added onto the pocket (if you want it exactly like mine) PLUS I have an exclusive coupon code for you guys: HOMESCHOOLON15
Take a look inside Nancy Larson Science 2 and join us at our kitchen table for a lesson where we dissect an owl pellet, SO much fun! I have five kids in five different grades and the beauty of this homeschool science curriculum is that I can do it with everyone at the same time!
I love showing glimpses into our homeschool day with day in the life videos, this one is targeted to a lesson of science because I have been getting questions on how it works. Hopefully this gives you a good idea of how it's laid out, this is not a sponsored post, we had this lying around and did a quick lesson for our morning basket today and decided to bring you in on it!
Let me know what you think in the comments!Im Not Cut out For HomeschoolingGather Round Family2018-09-05 | Feeling overwhelmed trying to choose the right curriculum? What if you could do all your subjects with all your kids . . . together? Try a free sample and see just how easy this can be! http://gatherroundhomeschool.com/samples
First off, let's talk about the number one thing I am going to get comments about... the noise. That noise is because I had a few minutes without the kids in my home and quickly threw together my set and hit record, I didn't wear my lapel mic and you can hear the sound of my camera CONSTANTLY refocusing every time I move. It's annoying, I get it. I considered scrapping this video but as I watched it over again, I just knew that I couldn't recreate that. it was raw, it was honest, it was powerful, and it was a message SO on my heart for homeschool moms. So despite the ANNOYING sound, bear with it, the message is true and I know this is for someone out there that needs to hear it and will be able to tune out the clicking noises.
This video is about failures, mistakes, impatience, and real life homeschooling in all it's glorious mess. I share my stories of failure and how we can overcome that. I share how I have hit rock bottom and considered sending my kids to school and how that fits in to where I am today. Homeschooling is HARD, it isn't perfect, but don't give up on yourself, don't give up on your kids! Show them the value of perseverance, show them how you learn from your mistakes and rise above them, choose GROWTH!
You've got this my friend. Keep calm and homeschool on, and share this with a homeschool friend who needs to hear it and hit subscribe because you love me ;) HA!
Happy homeschooling and join in the comments below!