Homeschool Hug

Homeschool Hug

Sarah Wehkamp
Country USA
Language EN
Episodes 42
Latest 01.12.2025

Homeschool Hug is a podcast for parents who are considering homeschooling or are in their first years of doing it. Host Sarah Wehkamp, a former teacher turned homeschool mom, shares the show she wishes she'd had early on, covering both practical topics like curriculum and scheduling and the emotional and mindset side of the decision. Episodes address fears such as worrying about ruining your kids, losing your own identity, or facing family judgment. The tone is honest and often humorous, with plenty of laughter along the way.

Episodes

  • 42. Why We Don't Do School in December (and neither should you) 01.12.2025 11m
    If you've been feeling guilty because your homeschool has slowed to a crawl this month - or completely fallen apart now… this episode is for you. I'm breaking down the truth no one tells new homeschool parents: no one is doing "real school" in December - not public school, not private school, and certainly not homeschoolers who've been doing this for a while. In this episode, you'll hear: What actually happens inside public school classrooms in December The surprising (and powerful) academic + life skills your kids learn without a textbook What to do instead of forcing worksheets and structure during the busiest month of the year Why December is one of the richest learning months if you stop trying to make it "schoolish" And make sure you stay till the end - I share our family's newest obsession that blindsided us… and somehow turned into the coziest December hobby ever. If you want a cozy, peaceful, connected December - instead of another month of pressure - join the 7-Day Cozy Homeschool Challenge: Make your homeschool feel like a Hallmark movie Want more support? Join Homeschool Hug LIVE Book a 1:1 Consultation @sarahwehkamp on Instagram
  • 41. What My Kids Miss by By Not Being in Public School 18.11.2025 10m
    When people ask what my kids are missing by not being in public school, I usually say-a lot. In this episode, I'm sharing what our family misses by not being in the system. You'll hear how homeschooling has given our kids space to think clearly, build confidence, and grow without the noise, comparison, and pressure that so many families are quietly drowning in. If you've ever wondered whether your kids are missing out, this episode will remind you: maybe missing out is exactly what they need. ✨ Learn more or book a consultation 🌿 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE 📸 @sarahwehkamp
  • 40. The Secret to a Cozy Homeschool Holiday (without doing MORE) 10.11.2025 9m
    If you're feeling the holiday chaos creeping in-Amazon boxes everywhere, math lessons half-finished, and flour all over the kitchen floor-this one's for you. In this episode, I'm sharing the honest story of how our first "cozy homeschool Christmas" turned into total burnout-and what finally brought the peace (and joy) back. We'll talk about why cozy matters, what's secretly stealing it, and how to protect your peace this season so you can actually enjoy the moments you're working so hard to create. Then, come join the 7-Day Cozy Homeschool Challenge-a free way to refill your reserves with calm, meaning, and a little bit of magic. ✨ Make Your Homeschool Feel Like a Hallmark Movie And if you're ready for deeper support, this month inside Homeschool Hug LIVE we're walking through The Snowman Will Steal My Peace badge-helping moms build lasting calm all year long. 🌿 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE 📸 @sarahwehkamp
  • 39. Why Your Homeschool Feels Harder Than It Should (Hint: It's Not the Curriculum) 04.11.2025 12m
    If homeschooling still feels harder than it should-this episode might be why. When I first started homeschooling, I thought I was doing something radical - leaving the system to give my kids a better way to learn. But what I didn't realize was that I'd carried the system home with me. The schedules, the checklists, the guilt when we didn't "start on time." I left school… but school hadn't left me. Breaking up with public-school thinking changed everything - and if you're feeling exhausted or constantly second-guessing yourself, it might be the shift you need too. That old mindset-the one that says success = grades, tight schedules, and constant proof-may be running your homeschool and keeping you exhausted and doubting yourself. In this episode, I break down what "public-school thinking" looks like at home, how to spot it, and what to do instead so you can finally feel calm, confident, and free. You'll walk away with a fresh mindset, simple next steps, and a new definition of success that actually fits your family. ✨ Book a 1:1 Consultation 🌿 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE 📸 Follow me on Instagram
  • 38. From Stop Motion to 3D Modeling: How to Help Your Kids Find Their Interests 06.10.2025 12m
    Ever worried your kid will never find that "thing" they love? In this episode, I'm sharing some of the stories and lessons from our home - from a Skillshare stop-motion class that turned into 3D modeling in Blender, to bass lessons inspired by a favorite song, to baking that started because, well… someone liked dessert. We'll talk about how to help your kids explore without pressure - and how to know when to step in, step back, or just let time do its work. The key isn't finding one magic interest - it's creating the kind of home where curiosity has room to grow. In this episode: Trying things (and letting them quit) Patience when progress feels slow Trusting your child's timing How to guide without pushing Simple ways to expose kids to new ideas, skills, and hobbies Links mentioned: Join Homeschool Hug LIVE - community support, monthly themes, and heart-level encouragement for homeschool moms. Book a 1:1 homeschool consult - personalized help for building rhythms, choosing curriculum, and supporting your unique kids. Follow me on Instagram: @sarahwehkamp
  • 37. 4 Strategies That Save Me on Hard Homeschool Days 29.09.2025 18m
    What do you do when homeschooling starts feeling hard? Ever have one of those days where you wonder if you're cut out for homeschooling at all? I've been there. The messy (often late start) mornings, the tears over math, the sinking thought: "Maybe I'm failing my kids." I want to share with you the four strategies that save me on hard homeschool days or when things feel tough. These things keep me grounded when I want to give up. You don't have to white-knuckle through this-there are simple ways to reset and find joy again. Hope these help you to feel more confident, relaxed and give you some comfort. ✨ Grab my Homeschool Why Workbook to uncover your unique mission. 🌿 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE for real-life community and encouragement. 📸 Follow me on Instagram for daily support.
  • 36. How to Reset When Your "Perfect" Plan Falls Apart 22.09.2025 8m
    If your beautiful plan already fell apart… you're not alone. In this episode of The Homeschool Hug, I share the day my schedule "betrayed" me-and the simple rhythm shifts that finally made our days feel human again. What you'll learn: The mindset shift from rigid routine to responsive rhythm How to stack & block your day so it actually flows Three small, doable habits that buy back margin Why I tired unschooling for awhile and how it went Quick ideas we use now: • Sleep in • One subject outside daily • Individual learning block to reset the house (no guilt) More support: Join Homeschool Hug LIVE - this month's theme: Trailblazer Badge (rhythm & real life) Book a 1:1 Consultation - get a custom daily flow that fits your family Follow on Instagram: @sarahwehkamp
  • 35. How to Homeschool With Littles Underfoot (Without Losing Your Mind) 15.09.2025 7m
    Homeschooling multiple ages at once can feel impossible-fractions for one child, a spilled sensory bin for another, and someone melting down over a "weird" pencil. You don't need to clone yourself-you need a different way of thinking. In this episode of The Homeschool Hug, I share simple rhythms and tools that make teaching older kids possible while littles are in the mix. What you'll learn: The "sliding scale of attention" to decide who needs you most each day How to stack and block your day (family time, independent work, 1:1 focus, flex) Tools that let you "clone yourself" (audiobooks, short videos, checklists, sibling helpers) Why consistency beats a one-size-fits-all schedule How to keep your sanity by prioritizing relationship over rigor Quick recap: Use the sliding scale, stack and block time, build independence with simple tools, and let your rhythm fit this season-not a classroom bell schedule. More support: Join Homeschool Hug LIVE - community, practical tools, and encouragement for homeschool moms. Book a 1:1 Consultation - get a custom plan for multiple ages. Follow on Instagram: @sarahwehkamp
  • 34. The Truth About Homeschooling: You're Not the Only One Struggling 08.09.2025 7m
    The Truth About Homeschooling: You're Not the Only One Struggling If you've ever ended a homeschool day thinking, "I'm messing this up," you're not alone. This episode of The Homeschool Hug is your reminder that guilt and struggle aren't signs of failure-they're signs that you care deeply. Here's what you'll hear in this episode: A raw personal story from my own journey with homeschool overwhelm The hidden reality behind why so many moms feel isolated The truth about what other homeschool moms really experience (but rarely post online) How to shift from feeling like you're failing to realizing you're braver than you think Encouragement to keep going, even on the hardest days You don't have to do this alone. You're part of a growing community of moms choosing connection over perfection. 💛 Want more support? Join Homeschool Hug LIVE - my brand-new in-person and online community for homeschool moms. Book a 1:1 Consultation for personalized help. And let's connect daily on Instagram: @sarahwehkamp
  • 33. Do You Have to Follow the School Calendar? 01.09.2025 8m
    Ever wondered if you're "supposed" to start homeschool when public school starts? In this episode of The Homeschool Hug, I share what we did that first year, what I wish I'd done, and how to set a start date (and pace) that actually fits your family-not the school district. What you'll learn: Why starting in August isn't a requirement (and what to do instead) How to pick a start date that fits your real life and energy The best way to ease in without burning out (start with 1–2 subjects) The mindset shift that stops the "I'm already behind" spiral Quick story: Our calendar said "start August 15." Reality? We began three weeks later. Nothing broke. No one fell behind. We just needed time to transition, breathe, and find a rhythm that worked for us. Permission, granted: You have permission to begin slowly, joyfully, and in your own way. Your direction matters more than your start date. Links & Support Join Homeschool Hug LIVE (monthly support, in-person & online) Book a 1:1 Consultation (get a custom plan for your family) Follow @sarahwehkamp on Instagram (daily encouragement & behind-the-scenes)
  • 32. How Homeschooling Changed Our Family Relationships (The Surprising Truth!) 25.08.2025 9m
    When we first started homeschooling, I worried about curriculum, schedules, and whether I'd "do it right." What I didn't realize was that the biggest impact homeschooling would have wasn't on academics - it was on our family relationships. In this episode, you'll hear: Why more time together doesn't have to mean more conflict How we largely skipped the "teen angst" narrative and why belonging at home matters Ways homeschooling built trust, confidence, and honest conversations How our marriage grew stronger through shared decisions and teamwork How reframing "struggles" as strengths changed everything Recommended Resource: 📖 Hold On to Your Kids - a must-read on building strong parent-child connections. Links & Support 💛 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE (community & monthly support) 🧡 Book a 1:1 Homeschool Consultation (personalized help) 📲 Follow me on Instagram @sarahwehkamp (daily encouragement)
  • 31. How Homeschool Looks Different For Each of Our Kids 18.08.2025 6m
    How Homeschooling Looks Different for Each Kid Homeschooling isn't one-size-fits-all - and it doesn't even look the same for kids in the same family. In this episode, I share how we adapted for each of our kids (even our identical twins!) and why "fair" doesn't have to mean "the same." We'll talk about: How to read your child's temperament and learning style Why "fair" doesn't mean "everyone does the same thing" Simple ways to tailor curriculum, pacing, and expectations How to involve your kids so they take ownership of learning If you're stuck trying to make one plan work for every kid, this will give you permission (and practical steps) to pivot, adapt, and actually enjoy homeschooling again. Links & Support: 💛 Join Homeschool Hug LIVE 📍 Book a 1:1 Homeschool Consultation 📲 Follow me on Instagram @sarahwehkamp
  • 30. How to Get Your Spouse Onboard (and Actively Involved) 11.08.2025 6m
    One of the biggest questions I get from moms is: "How do I get my spouse on board with homeschooling?" In this episode, I'm sharing how to start the conversation, what NOT to do, and practical ways to involve your partner so homeschooling becomes a shared family mission not just something you do alone. We'll talk about: Why values-based conversations work better than throwing out research or statistics How to handle your spouse's fears without rushing to "fix" them Practical on-ramps for getting your partner actively involved (without making it 50/50) The #1 mindset shift that helps couples move forward - even if they're still unsure If you want help having these conversations or figuring out how to make homeschooling work for your whole family, join me inside Homeschool Hug LIVE or book a 1:1 consultation so we can talk it through together. 📲 Let's connect on Instagram: @sarahwehkamp
  • 29. What We Got Right (And Totally Misunderstood) Our 1st Year of Homeschooling 04.08.2025 12m
    What do veteran homeschoolers wish they knew at the beginning? In this episode, I'm sharing the raw truth: what we got right in our first year of homeschooling-and what we completely misunderstood. From Pinterest-perfect expectations to emotional meltdowns, I walk you through our early missteps, what actually helped us thrive, and what I wish someone had told me. Whether you're just starting out or in the messy middle, this episode will help you feel seen, encouraged, and equipped to find your own rhythm. 💡 Why "doing it all" is a trap-and what to focus on instead 🌱 What helped us grow real connection (before academics) 🔁 Mistakes we made that you can learn from now 🧭 The mindsets that saved us from burnout ✨ ANNOUNCEMENT: Homeschool Hug LIVE is here! It's a brand-new in-person support program for homeschool moms. Think Girl Scouts but for homeschool moms. Click here to learn more & join us. Need support right now? Book a 1:1 consult. Follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes encouragement: @sarahwehkamp
  • 28. The First Steps to Switching Your Kids From School to Home 21.07.2025 9m
    Episode 28: What to Do Right After You Pull Your Kids From School So you brought your kids home-now what? If you're staring at your kitchen table wondering how to actually start homeschooling… this episode is for you. I'm sharing: The messy reality of our first few weeks after leaving public school (hint: it wasn't tea and nature journaling) Why pushback from your kids doesn't mean you're failing How to support your kids emotionally as they transition home The first steps to create calm, connection, and a doable rhythm What I wish I had known about motivation, resistance, and big feelings 📍 Helpful Links: 🎟️ Summer Homeschool Conference – grab your early bird ticket 💬 Book a 1:1 Consult with Me 📱 Follow on Instagram for daily encouragement This transition might feel messy but you're not doing it wrong. You're doing the brave work of rethinking education. And you don't have to do it alone. The Homeschool Hug is here to guide, uplift, and remind you that you've got this.
  • 27. Homeschool Without Fear: From Legal Battles to Strong Families - An Interview With Stephanie Lambert Feierstein 14.07.2025 23m
    If you've ever wondered if you're "doing it right," or felt nervous about what your kids will turn out like-you're not alone. In this episode of The Homeschool Hug, I'm talking with Stephanie Lambert Feierstein from the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC). Stephanie grew up homeschooled during a time when families faced real legal battles and now she works to support and protect homeschoolers today. We dive into: Stephanie's personal homeschool story (and why she says yes-you and your kids will be okay!) How THSC supports families today What new legislation like SB-2 (the school choice bill) actually means for homeschoolers Encouragement for the mom who worries she's not enough Whether you're new to homeschooling or a veteran, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped to keep going. 💛 Links & Resources Mentioned: Getting Started Homeschooling Become a THSC Member 2025 Homeschool Legislation THSC on Instagram THSC on Facebook 🎟️ Grab your ticket to the 2025 Summer Homeschool Conference — space is limited! 🧡 Book a 1:1 Homeschool Consultation for personalized support. 📲 Follow me on Instagram for daily encouragement: @sarahwehkamp
  • 26. Am I Teaching the Right Things? Here's What Actually Matters 07.07.2025 11m
    Ever feel like you're just guessing at what your kids actually need to learn and low-key panicking that you're getting it all wrong? With AI and tech changing everything so fast, it's easy to feel like we're missing something big. In this episode, I share the surprising shift that freed me from the pressure to "teach it all," and what I focus on instead. We'll talk about: Why you don't have to teach everything by 18 The few core subjects and skills that matter most How to equip your kids to keep learning for life Why faith, character, and real-world skills are more important than ever Some favorite resources I mention: The Well-Trained Mind — great literature recommendations and an inspiring classical foundation The Feelings Wheel — a simple tool to help build emotional intelligence The Amazing Dr. Ransom's Bestiary of Adorable Fallacies — a fun way to introduce logical fallacies and critical thinking The Art of Argument — great for developing discernment and debate skills If you're an overthinker with 37 tabs open, this one's for you. 💛 More Support: 📍 Book a 1:1 Homeschool Consultation 🎟 Grab your ticket to the 2025 Summer Homeschool Conference 📲 @sarahwehkamp on Instagram
  • 25. When Homeschool Feels Heavy: Finding Rest with Jill Miller 30.06.2025 30m
    🎙️ Episode Title: From Burnout to Stillness: A Conversation with Jill Miller If you've ever wondered if you're doing enough, or felt completely worn out by this homeschooling journey-this episode is for you. Today, I'm joined by my dear friend Jill Miller, founder of Teacher Be Still. We've known each other since 4th grade, and her heart for moms and educators is unmatched. We talk about: What we use to do on the playground in the 4th grade Jill's journey from classroom teacher to home The surprising challenges (and gifts) of homeschooling How to find stillness and grace when everything feels heavy And at the end, we share something special we're creating together this summer just for you. 💛 Find Jill at @teacherbestill on Instagram. 🎟 Join us at the 2025 Summer Homeschool Conference. 📍 Need more personal support? Book a 1:1 consultation with me. 📲 Follow along for daily encouragement: @sarahwehkamp
  • 24. How to Handle Mom Guilt While Homeschooling 23.06.2025 6m
    If you've ever ended a homeschool day thinking, "I'm messing this up," you're not alone. This episode of The Homeschool Hug is your reminder that guilt isn't a sign you're failing. We dive into: A raw personal story from my own journey with homeschool burnout and guilt The real reason homeschool moms feel like they're not doing enough The #1 most effective way to fight mom guilt and come back to grace Gentle affirmations to help you reset your mindset 💛 More Support: 📍 Book a 1:1 Homeschool Consultation 🎟 Grab your ticket to the 2025 Summer Homeschool Conference 📲 @sarahwehkamp on Instagram
  • 23. How to Choose Curriculum (Without Losing Your Mind) 16.06.2025 8m
    🎙️ Episode Title: Curriculum Clarity – How to Choose Without Losing Your Mind If you're staring at 47 open tabs, trying to find the "perfect" homeschool curriculum-you're not alone. In this episode, I'm breaking down how to choose curriculum without spiraling into overwhelm. Here's what you'll hear: The real reason curriculum feels so hard to choose What I wish I knew my first year of homeschooling A step-by-step approach to picking the right fit Practical tips to simplify your choices Why it's okay to pivot mid-year 📌 Don't forget: You don't have to do this alone. Book a 1:1 Consult or grab your ticket to the Summer Homeschool Conference—spots are filling up! Let's take the pressure off and make choosing curriculum feel peaceful instead of panic-inducing. Follow along for more support: @sarahwehkamp

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