Homeschool Made Simple

Episoder

• 320: Expats Homeschooling In Italy Part 1 10.06.2026 19min

  In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful mindset shifts around your homeschool and your priorities. Plus, you’ll hear plenty of encouragement from your family without having to move to a foreign country!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSHMS Essentials BundleMentioned in this episode:Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10Voetberg Music Academy
• 319: Raising Healthy Kids at Home: Nutrition, Sleep, and Faith with Dr. Bill Sears, Part 3 03.06.2026 16min

  In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well-being. Join us!RESOURCES+The Smart Health Plan: Five Steps to Lasting Health and Happiness for All Ages, By Dr Williams Sears+The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription:The Science-Proven Plan to Start at Any Age, By Vincent Fortanasce, M.D.+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSUnplugged Children BundleMentioned in this episode:Get your first month of lessons with Voetburg Music Academy for just $10! Use code HOMESCHOOL10Voetberg Music Academy
• 318: Finding Joy in Homeschooling a Child with Special Needs 27.05.2026 29min

  We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 years of homeschooling under Chelsea’s belt, we hope this episode is a great encouragement to all who are walking the same path!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSLearn More about CTCMathMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.Family Worship
• 317: Trusting the Family Educational Process For the Long-Haul in Homeschooling 20.05.2026 23min

  Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Both of the Clonts now recognize the importance of following this clear, consistent educational plan rather than “hybridizing” multiple methods, which can lead to overwhelm and a lack of cohesion. Join us!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSUnplugged Children BundleMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, Family Worship, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.Family Worship
• 316: Create a Rich Homeschool Through Connection, Consistency, and Carole Joy Seid’s Method 13.05.2026 19min

  Part 1 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind!The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Anna discusses her initial doubt about homeschooling, the encouragement she received, and how her confidence grew as she saw positive results in her children. Join us!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, Arlo Takes Off, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 % off with a free Crossway Plus account.Arlo Takes Off
• 315: Trusting God and Homeschooling Through Unexpected Difficulties 06.05.2026 23min

  How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for resiliency and perseverance!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, For The Bible Tells Me So, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. For The Bible Tells Me So
• 314: Great Books to Relearn American History as a Parent 29.04.2026 33min

  Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enriching. She reviews a variety of books she’s read on American history—from foundational texts like "Land of Hope" and biographies of key figures, to novels and family read-alouds that bring historical periods to life. Join us!RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSHMS Essentials BundleMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, How Should We Then Live, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. How Should We Then Live?
• 313: Thriving Teen Boys: Homeschooling with Strong Parent-Child Relationships 22.04.2026 30min

  Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David also shares the idea of educating "poet warriors"—children who are both disciplined and creative. A great episode for parents who want to be intentional guides in their children’s lives and to embrace a whole-person education!RESOURCES+Books mentioned: Keeper of the Bees by Gene Stratton Porter and Hold On to Your Kids by Gabor Maté and Gordon Neufeld+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestEPISODE LINKSTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Pick up a copy of Don't Waste Your Life wherever books are sold or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway plus account. Don't Waste Your Life
• 312: Transitioning Your Teenaged Girls From Childhood to Adulthood 15.04.2026 34min

  Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningful family traditions—even as schedules get busier. This episode will inspire you to continue looking to the Lord for wisdom as you navigate these potentially choppy waters!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, New Morning Mercies For Teens, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.New Morning Mercies for Teens
• 311: Older Children and the Power of the Family with Dr. Sears, Part 2 08.04.2026 23min

  Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren.Other topics they discuss:+ investing time in the early years for spiritual development+ managing screen time+ practical strategies for fostering healthier habits+ the benefits of outdoor play and movement for a child’s physical and mental health+ the 5 healthy steps for healthy bodiesRESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestUnplugged Children BundleMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, For the Children's Sake, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.For The Children's Sake
• 310: Attachment from the Womb: Dr. Sears’ Advice for Young Families, Part 1 01.04.2026 23min

  In part one of this special three-part series, Carole Joy Seid sits down with her longtime friend and author, Dr. William Sears, a leading voice in attachment parenting. They discuss the science and heart behind attachment—from the earliest days in the womb to toddlerhood and beyond. Learn how talking, singing, and even humming to your unborn child lays a foundation for lifelong bonding, and why practices like "the golden hour," babywearing, and investing time with your little ones pay exponential dividends. Join us!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestHMS Essentials BundleMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, The Biggest Story Bible Storybook, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. The Biggest Story Bible Storybook
• 309: Managing Large Homeschool Families with Joy and Flexibility 25.03.2026 30min

  Today, in part two of Rachel’s conversation with seasoned homeschool parents, Jason and Bre Kemp unpack the real-life strategies behind managing their family of 7. You’ll hear how they prioritize meaningful family dinners, find community both inside and outside the homeschool world, and intentionally build lasting memories through serving and working together. Perfect for parents seeking practical guidance on homeschooling with a large family, protecting family time, and keeping Christ at the center of their journey.RESOURCES+Books mentioned in this episode: 'Brian' series of books by Gary Paulsen and Old Yeller+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Pick up a copy of this parenting book wherever books are sold, or visit Crossway.org to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family
• 308: Fostering a Grace-Filled Educational Balance Through Work, Study, and Service 18.03.2026 29min

  Rachel Winchester welcomes Jason and Bre Kemp, experienced homeschool parents from California, to share their family’s journey with their five children. The conversation centers on fostering a balanced approach to education through the “three-legged stool” concept: work, study, and service. Jason and Bre discuss how they incorporate daily work and service into their children’s routines, including outdoor chores, cooking, and serving at their church. They share how these experiences have instilled discipline, responsibility, and gratitude in their children in an ever-evolving way as they age.RESOURCES+Books mentioned in this episode: Farmer Boy, The Hawk and Dove Trilogy+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestHMS Essentials BundleMentioned in this episode:Pick up the book, Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West, wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West
• 307: Building a Love for Reading in Our Children 11.03.2026 25min

  “The chores aren’t done…Should I really sit down to read?” In this excerpt from one of our in-person workshops, JJ Seid explains why a home filled with books matters more than wealth or degrees for your kids’ future. He discusses research and encouragement for busy parents, showing that reading is a powerful act of resistance in a screen-heavy world. Reading aloud, surrounding your kids with books, and modeling a love of reading are all keys to fostering that love in our children. Whether you’re homeschooling or just want your kids to love learning, you’ll find practical strategies to transform your home!RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Pick up a copy of What Makes You Beautiful wherever books are sold, or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account.What Makes You Beautiful: 20 Daily Devotions for Girls
• 306: “I Read More Books in One Year Than My Entire Life” 04.03.2026 27min

  The story of Justin and Sissi Little is sure to encourage you as you consider homeschooling. They share their paths of coming from divorced homes and public school to recognizing their need for Jesus then jumping into homeschooling. The Littles discuss their initial worries, their desire for their children to be outside, the role of community and seminars, and the freedom the Homeschool Made Simple method has brought them. Join us!RESOURCES+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Pick up a copy of The Hunt for the Kraken wherever books are sold or visit this link to learn how to get 30 percent off with a free Crossway Plus account. The Hunt for the Kraken: A Decide-as-You-Go Adventure
• 305: Don’t Outsource High School! Build a Biblical Foundation and Launch Strong (Part 5 of 5) 25.02.2026 23min

  Are you homeschooling a high schooler or planning to? In this episode from the archive, we delve into the “golden years” of homeschooling, exploring the crucial role of parents in shaping your children's education during this impactful stage. We talk about the importance of keeping your teenagers close during this pivotal stage, maintaining hands-on discipleship and influence while preparing your children for college and beyond.Discover how to maintain a strong relationship while navigating high-level courses, dual enrollment, and preparing for the future by instilling a biblical worldview through meaningful and insightful discussions. Join us for practical tips on homeschooling high school students, including work, volunteer, and apprenticeship opportunities.RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Musical Lessons in Your Home: Use code HOMESCHOOL20 for 20% off lessonsVoetberg Music Academy
• 304: Shaping Character and Faith During the Transitional Middle School Years (Part 4 of 5) 18.02.2026 25min

  The transitional period between childhood and adolescence can be daunting. However, it is also key to shaping their spiritual growth.Carole Joy Seid and Rachel Winchester discuss the importance of understanding middle schoolers' developmental needs. Cultivating an environment where children are free to embrace both their lingering childhood tendencies and the emerging traits of independence and responsibility is key.This episode from the archive will encourage you to savor the middle school years with your child, helping you navigate this transitional period with confidence and joy. Homeschooling middle schoolers can be enjoyable!RESOURCES+Minding Your Own Business by Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore+The Healthiest Kid in the Neighborhood by Dr. Bill Sears+$10 Preschool Interview with Carole and J.J. +Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Musical Lessons in Your Home: Use code HOMESCHOOL20 for 20% off lessonsVoetberg Music Academy
• 303: When and How to Turn Up Academic Rigor- Homeschooling Elementary Children (Part 3 of 5) 11.02.2026 22min

  These years are when the "better late than early" approach is so important as parents prepare their elementary-aged kids for a gradual transition to more serious studies in middle and high school.When homeschooling elementary-aged children, we want to take things slowly. Academics should build over time to prevent academic burnout.Carole and Rachel discuss integrating study, work, and service by doing short, concrete lessons in phonics, real-life math, and handwriting. And of course, they encourage reading out loud to develop a love for reading!RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestLearn More about CTCMathMentioned in this episode:Get 20% off lessons at Voetberg Music Academy using HOMESCHOOL20 codeVoetberg Music Academy
• 302: Is There Such a Thing as Too Early? Homeschooling Preschool-Aged Children (Part 2 of 5) 04.02.2026 22min

  Have you wondered what the best approach to educating your preschooler is? In this episode, we delve into the crucial preschool years and the essential aspects that lay the foundation for educational success.Rachel and Carole emphasize the importance of viewing preschool as a time for bonding, laying the foundation for future success, and fostering a love for learning through work, service, and study. They recommend focusing on life skills, character development, and nurturing attachment and bonding with children during these early years, rather than early academics. Join us as we encourage parents to listen to their intuition and to enjoy these sweet and formative years.RESOURCES+$10 Preschool Interview with Carole and J.J. +Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestMentioned in this episode:Musical Lessons in Your Home: Use code HOMESCHOOL20 for 20% off lessonsVoetberg Music Academy
• 301: What Exactly Is The Homeschool Made Simple Approach? (Part 1 of 5) 28.01.2026 22min

  Are you looking to understand the Homeschool Made Simple method in a nutshell? In this episode from the archive, we explore the research-based, interest-led, and literature-rich approach to homeschooling. Learn how to create a customized curriculum that fits your family's unique needs.Embrace a holistic view of education that nurtures warm, loving homes and allows your children to pursue their interests under parental guidance. Join us as we discuss the joy of creating a literary-rich environment that shapes your children's character and theology, and how to factor in each child's unique needs.RESOURCES+Click here for a complete list of books mentioned in this episode+Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping!+Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here+Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential Parts of a Great Education.+Attend one of our upcoming seminars this year!+Click HERE for more information about consulting with Carole Joy Seid!CONNECTHomeschool Made Simple | Website | Seminars | Instagram | Facebook | PinterestTry CTCMath-Half Price DiscountMentioned in this episode:Musical Lessons in Your Home: Use code HOMESCHOOL20 for 20% off lessonsVoetberg Music Academy