Homeschool Minnesota (Dayle Annand MÂCHÉ)

The Reading Center has been teaching the Orton-Gillingham Approach to reading to thousands of children and adults since 1951. In this episode Kristen Bieber talks about what that approach is, how to sign your child up, and how you can get involved in becoming a tutor for The Reading Center! To learn more about the upcoming tutor training visit https://www.thereadingcenter.org/ogtraining To get more information about the summer Best of Basics program visit https://www.thereadingcenter.org/best-of-basics To hear more about why millions of children struggle with reading and what the research shows visit https://features.apmreports.org/sold-a-story

This series of podcasts we are talking with Rochelle Ruiz, author, wife, singer-songwriter, speaker, and homeschool mom. Take some time for yourself to really listen to Rochelle’s story and how she has used challenges to go deeper into her relationship with God and how that translated into her parenting, life, and homeschooling. Rochelle has written two books, “Gotta Give it to God” and “Think on Good Things” available on Amazon. You can visit her website: www.rochellestjohnruiz.com to learn more about her and her ministry.

We are beginning a new series that will appear throughout the next season called “Homeschool Stories” where we interview homeschool graduates who have gone on to college or careers. They will talk about their homeschool experience and how it prepared them for life! Join us today as we hear from Michael, a software engineer, as he discusses his homeschool to college to career journey!

All across Minnesota there are micro schools popping up! While this is a great alternative for parents who need a hybrid option for homeschooling, are you aware of the things you should know before starting a micro school? Alfrieda, a retired lawyer who answered God’s call to start a micro school, talks about her journey and responsibility in educating children at her school. ***Views in this podcast are not legal advice, but, should be taken as suggestions about things to think about and look into when starting your own micro school. For more information on Alfrieda’s school, Laurel Community School, click here: https://www.laurelcs.org/ For more information about Marva Collins, click here: https://youtu.be/fK7GUSISFjY?si=4Eg9kDu1z5AeVhWK and here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Marva_Collins_Story

Dawn is back again to encourage us to get organized for a new school year and wrap up this past year. Dawn has practical advice for homeschooling moms on the best way to set up a school room and the rest of your house to make school next year just a bit easier. She also gives some advice to get the kids involved! You can find her free homeschool mom workshop here: https://www.theminimalmom.com/offers/3ekLnfEY/checkout You can find links to her videos and books here: http://www.theminimalmom.com/

Chris is an author, blogger and lyricist. He and his wife, Carroll, homeschool their children with the methods of Charlotte Mason in Southern Illinois. Christ has written Guided by Wisdom as a way to go deeper into God’s Word with your kids, as a family, or just on your own! Guided By Wisdom is a 2024 Gold Medal Christian Book Award winner. you can find out more by visiting his website at www.singwriteread.com/books

Paula leads GRACE co-op in Willmar, MN and talks about how her group has taken Homeschool Legislative Day to the next level! You can do the same thing with your group or your family. Teaching our children to get involved in government is a valuable lesson and here are some very practical ways to do it!

A quick talk with our executive director, Rob Prigge, about the behind the curtain workings of MACHE!

Do you feel pressure to do it all? Are you feeling inferior to other moms around you? Shannon talks with us about how to come against that in our lives and walk in the purpose God has for us. Find the books referenced in this episode at these links: Disconnected Kids https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/736182/disconnected-kids-third-edition-by-dr-robert-melillo/ A Place Called Simplicity https://www.biblio.com/book/place-called-simplicity-claire-cloninger/d/1297953472

All the new things you need to know about the 2024 convention! If you are on the fence about going, maybe this will help you decide, and if you are already going this will help you navigate! To download the convention app go to: https://event1.io/app/mache/ For just attending the used curriculum sale as a buyer go to https://forms.gle/QFsUggkqdDEv2PRS9 to rent a table to sell at the used curriculum sale go to: used.curriculum@mache.org for hotel information, exhibit hall information, Clean Comedy Family night and more go to: https://mache.org/event/2024-convention/ To sign up for Men’s Breakfast or Leadership Forum go to: https://mache.org/convention-registration/ If you would like to attend for free and have the ability to volunteer, go to: https://forms.gle/KKcyiGFq8XN6JgF37 all other questions email info@mache.org

Julie has transitioned 3 of her 4 children from school to homeschool and has great insight and tips for families who are looking to do the same!

John Stamper spent 13 years teaching in the Chicago public schools. In 2021 he filed a concern with the school board over materials he was being trained to teach to his students as young as 5 years old, when they turned down his request to look into the materials and training, he followed God’s leading and resigned. In this podcast we talk with John about what is really happening behind the scenes in public schools all over the USA and what you as a parent can do. If you are interested in reading his book you can find it here: https://www.masterbooks.com/conflicted I encourage you to buy one for yourself and other copies to give to families who are thinking about homeschooling. It’s an important book with a strong message.

Hear from Rob Prigge all about Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators (MACHÉ). We talk about the history of how MACHÉ started and the four branches of MACHÉ. Visit the website at www.mache.org

Join us as we begin the MÂCHÉ Book Club for Preschool to Adults! We as homeschooling families want our children to enjoy reading, but, what do we have them read? Sometimes we just need some great ideas and Susan has them. Susan homeschooled her 4 children and is an avid reader with an extensive personal library. She will regularly share with us suggestions for every age in our family that are good books to enjoy together. If you are interested in any of the books mentioned in this podcast, you can visit our MÂCHÉ Book Club list on Amazon found at this link: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RCLMLEBP73VY?ref_=wl_share We hope that you find great ideas and spend the wonderful summer days reading amazing books!

Israel Wayne is an author and conference speaker who has a passion for defending the Christian faith and promoting a Biblical worldview. He is a homeschooling dad of 11, a husband, an author, and passionate about discipleship! Join us as we talk about his book Foundational Truths: a Modern Catechism. Israel shares his heart to teach truth to our children and lead them deeper into God’s character and love for them. You can find his book on the Masterbooks website at https://www.masterbooks.com/foundational-truths-a-modern-catechism You can also find resources from Israel Wayne here: https://familyrenewal.org/ To visit Master Books go to https://www.masterbooks.com/

We continue our conversation with Shaun and Julianna about ways parents can safely monitor and set up technology for homeschool and family. To see the information talked about in this episode, visit these links: https://www.bark.us/ https://www.verizon.com/solutions-and-services/verizon-smart-family/ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208982 https://families.google/family link/

Portals is a literature-to-project based home education program providing resources to parents seeking a Christ-centered education for their children. They provide curriculum with daily K-12 hyperlinked lesson plans in all subjects, a call-in center with live support, and Friday field trip ideas every week. They save you time so you can spend it building character, family, and faith. You can find Portals on www.portalsacademy.com or on the MÂCHÉ homepage!

Esther’s Place Homeschool Resource Center is here to help make home education successful for your family. Whether you take advantage of their Parent Equipping nights or the curriculum library you will find someone at Esther’s Place ready to encourage, talk, and pray with you. For more information on Esther’s Place, you can visit their website at www.estersplacehrc.org

In this episode we finish out our round of talks with all the practical ways you can help your children with their emotions and how to streamline your day to make things flow smoother. Rochelle has her books available for purchase at thinkofgoodthings.com

In this episode Dayle talks about her experience using nature and nature journaling with her children outdoors as well as sharing many ideas of easy things you can do with your child using nature to homeschool without them catching on that it’s “school”! Links to things talked about in this episode: nature journaling: https://www.journalbuddies.com/journal-prompts-writing-ideas/nature-writing-prompts-for-kids/ or https://youtu.be/NvfZpuy40iA leaf and flower pressing: https://empressofdirt.net/pressed-flower-projects/ Or https://youtu.be/NvfZpuy40iA butterfly and pollinator garden: https://bwsr.state.mn.us/residential-pollinator-habitat Or https://extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/flowers-pollinators Vine fort: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Garden-Architecture-Cedar-Expandable-Pyramid-Trellis/1003096508?cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-lwn-_-ggl-_-LIA_LWN_243_Planters-And-Outdoor-Decor-_-1003096508-_-local-_-0-_-0&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIopeWmO6p_gIVbxXUAR2CXgdbEAQYASABEgJcAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Bird feeders and bird baths DIY: https://happygardens.com/blogs/news/homemade-bird-bath-ideas Or https://youtu.be/UxiU53nNk_M

Join Dayle Annand, Rob Prigge, Karen Soencksen, and Ruth Brinker as they share some family Christmas traditions and wonderful Advent traditions with you! We wish you all a wonderful Christmas season. For the books mentioned in this episode,visit: www.jothamsjourney.com

Today I am talking with Shaun and Julianna Carlson all about how they safely and creatively use technology with their homeschool and family. In this episode we discuss uses for technology and all the creative ways to help your child(ren) use it in their studies and life. For more information you can contact Shaun at techhelp@shauncarlson.com Some links that are talked about in this episode are: https://www.playosmo.com/ https://www.learning resources.com/shop/collections/botley https://classroom.google.com/

In this segment of our conversation with Rochelle she shares her story. This is a sensitive conversation…not for children.

Julie Johnson is the legislative director for MACHE. We will discuss what she does in the state capital on behalf of homeschooling families in Minnesota as well as give updates to important legislation happening right now. To be better informed about legislative happenings and to track bills that could effect homeschooling, visit and sign up for updates at https://mache.org/mache-legislative-watch/

Take a peek inside our own family homeschool journey with our first child, Alicia! She shares all about her experiences, challenges, and views about her homeschool journey to college and then graduating as an RN.

Michael Ramey from the Parental Rights Foundation shares what is happening with parental rights in the USA and how it could affect homeschool families right here in Minnesota. For more information go to www.parental rights foundation.org

The Old Schoolhouse magazine has been around since 2001. It started as a newsletter of resources and ideas and quickly evolved into a publication with articles from top homeschool leaders. Old Schoolhouse also has vast, free resources on their website www.theoldschoolhouse.com You can also go to their teacher’s website to get lesson plans, ideas, reviews, and help at www.schoolhouseteachers.com To learn all about the history of homeschooling you can visit www.historyofhomeschooling.com You can also find a link to The Old Schoolhouse on the MÂCHÉ homepage!

Jenn shares with us her experience of setting an appointment to meet with her representative and talks about how her day went and all that happened on her family’s visit to the state capitol.

Does your student have an interest in public policy and politics? Are you looking for an opportunity for your student to creatively learn government and citizenship with other teenagers? Does your student need practice in public speaking? Jessica Swedzinski talks about TeenPact and how your child can be involved. TeenPact is a national organization that has been in MN for the past few years. 2024’s class dates are April 22-25 for ages 13-19, April 26 for a one day class for ages 8-12, Political Communications workshop is April 26 for ages 13-19. TeenPact is running a $50 discount on camp registrations for housing during the 4-day class with the discount code MNCAMP. https://www.facebook.com/teenpact Website: https://teenpact.com/states/mn/ Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?via=oY56wpN0ZLg After your student attends a four day class, they are considered TeenPact Alumni and can participate in other national events: National Convention, Judicial, Congress, Media, Back to DC, Business, Endeavor, and Venture; https://teenpact.com/2024alumni

In this podcast Amy Puetz Fox of Golden Prairie Press joins us as we explore the exciting connection between history and food. Learn ways to incorporate cooking into learning history and where to find historical recipes. We will also explore how eating the food from previous time periods can enhance our understanding of history. Visit Amy’s website at www.goldenprairiepress.com to find her wonderful history books and so much more!

Rebecca Moan is a veteran homeschooling mom of 5 boys who homeschooled over the span of 23 years. She is currently an adjunct professor and part-time admissions coordinator for Free Lutheran Bible College in the Twin cities. She shares with us her 4 main thoughts about simplifying your homeschool.

Ginny Yurich lives with her husband Josh and 5 children in Michigan. Ginny is the founder and creator of 1000 Hours Outside, a global movement to encourage families to enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer! Join us today as Ginny discusses her new book, “Until the Streetlights Come On” and the importance to our children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development that outside play brings. You can follow Ginny on Instagram on 1000 Hours Outside and you can visit her website and blog at www.1000hoursoutside.com

Craig Harrison is a homeschool dad living with his wife and 2 boys in Minnesota. As the author of the book, “Your Child’s Best Teacher”, he discusses homeschooling today and the best way to approach teaching our children. His words are encouraging and challenging as he talks about being Your Child’s Best Teacher! You can find his resources at https://books.qrx.group

Dave Racer has more than 25 years of experience teaching Government,Civics, the Constitution, and Student Senate. He has extensive experience in government and has written 55 books on topics from health care policy to curriculum on government. Today we talk with him about his experience running student senate. If you would like more information on signing your 9th-12th grader up for Student Senate, click on the links below for more information: https://studentsenatesaa.com https://omeganationalacademy.com www.daveracer.com

“Kids will always find the wild places!” Shannon talks about getting kids outside or bringing nature to them. Join us for a talk about the benefits of nature learning and 3 things you can do right now to detox your family from screen time and get into nature! To find Shannon’s book, “Life In The Trenches” go to this link: https://a.co/d/01qEwIH you can visit Shannon’s website at www.badgermomma.org

Houlie Duque, the creator of Homeschool To Go, talks to us about how her method will encourage families to embrace a project-based homeschool curriculum that is easily adaptable for not only working families but also families with children with special needs. Homeschool To Go is a personalized program to help you with each individual child you are homeschooling through meeting with your own teacher and assessing the needs of each child. You can find them at www.homeschooltogo.org

Leah is an enthusiastic music teacher and homeschooling mom who is sharing with us the science behind music in our children’s education and development.

We start off talking about what the pubic school districts in MN are required to do for homeschoolers in their districts regarding extra curricular, co curricular, and sports. What to expect when approaching your local district. Also, Julie Johnson gives us a 2024 legislative update! Minnesota State High School League www.mshsl.org https://hslda.org/legal/minnesota https://mache.org/mache-legislative-watch/

2024 is shaping up to be a big year at MÂCHÉ and this includes in the area of legislation. Today Julie talks about all that has been happening since last legislative session and calls for homeschooling families and friends to rally at the capitol on February 15. You can sign up for legislative updates on the website www.mache.org and find out more about capitol day at https://mache.org/event/2024-mache-homeschool-day-at-the-capitol/

Leah talks about the fun ways to integrate music into your child’s education and family life even if you aren’t a “musical” person!

Are you wondering already what you will do with all the extra stuff that will be coming into your home this Holiday Season? What do you do with the new curriculum and resources you are purchasing for your students? Dawn, a homeschool mom of 4, encourages us to take control of our homes and our stuff to bring peace and restore joy to our daily lives. Dawn has a website and a YouTube channel where she shares her life as a minimalist homeschool mom. You can access her free 4-part video workshop covering topics such as Inventory, declutterring, and simplifying at https://www.theminimalmom.com/offers/3ekLnfEY You can access her YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom

Today I talk to Baird Johnson from Learning Rx. We discuss cognitive function and how that can effect learning and what parents can do to improve their child’s cognitive awareness. Learning Rx is providing MACHE members FREE online cognitive assessments for up to 4 of their children. This will provide insights into how your child’s brain works, which skills are strong or weak, and how you can h leap them learn more easily. Now through April 25th, you can register your children for this free test, which normally costs $149 per child! Click on the link below for the test: https://forms.gle/hYmpu8pLjbTcu1c68

How do you help your child to find what their Giftings are? What do you do when a child wants to try something new? How do you champion your child in finding new opportunities? Join Dayle and Mark Annand as they share their experiences with homeschooling and raising their kids and what God has done with their gifts in their homeschooling journey.

We continue our conversation about education in the outdoors!

Are you feeling like you don’t have enough to keep going? Does the thought of homeschooling make you feel insecure and afraid that you will let your child down? Jamie talks to us today about how to Homeschool Bravely. Join us as she leads us to our source of strength and courage to continue in the calling He has given us and our families. To find out more about Jamie, to read her blog, to order her books, or to listen to her podcast, click on this link: www.jamieerikson.com

Kids, through forms of media like Disney and other big movies, they’re taught that they ought to follow their own hearts, their own dreams, their own aspirations, do whatever makes them happy or their dream career, and then bring Jesus and the Bible into that. But scripture really has a totally different narrative. We ought to follow Christ first and foremost with our lives, to implore Him, what would He have us do with our lives, and then pursue that. That is really the ultimate adventure and that’s the most joy-filled and content-filled life.—Hudson Wild Join Hudson as he talks about growing up in South East Asia as a missionary kids with his 3 brothers and how God used their love for adventuring and recording it to help them launch Wild Brothers TV, an interactive streaming app and streaming TV app that you can safely use to not only entertain your kids, but, educate them as well! This is more than a streaming app, it’s a total family experience. To find out more, click on the link here: https://www.wildbrothersproductions.com/ There is a 7-day free trial and for a limited time if you type in WILDFALL you can receive 20% off the subscription price!

“I don’t think we can afford to homeschool.” That is something we hear all the time. Maybe you have even thought that yourself. Does homeschooling have to be expensive? How can we homeschool where, in many families, we are surviving on one income and struggling to make it? I hope that today’s episode is a big encouragement to you! Aby Rinella talks about first, what can we do right now to change our mind-set, and second, how do we practically walk that out. She has some good, solid thoughts and advice to families wanting to homeschool on a smaller budget. Some links talked about in this episode: https://www.amblesideonline.org/ https://allinonehomeschool.com/ https://librivox.org/

Science can be one of the most difficult things to teach young children. God’s Design series from Debbie Lawrence is not only easy to teach but is thorough and well thought out as well as deep in content. God’s Design: Life for Beginners covers Plants, The Human Body, and Animals all in one curriculum that can be used for various ages and can also be taught alongside the same science topics for your older students! Join us as Debbie talks all about how to utilize this curriculum for your family and bring fun and learning to your science lessons! You can find God’s Design series on Master Books at: https://www.masterbooks.com/gods-design-series

Christ Over Culture: Raising Kids to Stand in a Postmodern World is a must have book for Christian parents who want to raise their kids with a Biblical worldview. Andrea Crum talks about all the ideologies coming against our families and especially our children and how we can train them to stand up not only in truth but also in compassion. You can find Andrea’s book at Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/christ-over-culture and for more information on the Raising Christian Kids Conference you can visit Andrea’s website: https://www.genuinefamilyministries.com/raising-christian-kids-event/

After more than 20 years working in education, Christy and her husband chose to walk away from a thriving business consulting on education for families wanting to find educational alternatives for their children. Seeing so many struggling with traditional education, they started to research and explore homeschooling which profoundly transformed their perspective on education. Christy began homeschooling her children and mentoring and supporting parents who have taken on homeschooling. Christy runs an online community, Thrive Homeschool Community, hosts a podcast, The Christy-Faith Show, and writing. You can find her on her website at www.christy-faith.com her podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and YouTube to buy her book “Homeschool Rising: Shattering Myths, Finding Courage, and Opting out of the School System” you can go to Amazon here: Homeschool Rising: Shattering Myths, Finding Courage, and Opting Out of the School System https://a.co/d/5VsJJjC

Martyn Iles is the Executive CEO of Answers in Genesis and has written “Who Am I? Solving the Identity Puzzle” in answer to the identity crises today. What is true Biblical identity and how can we pass that on to our children? Are we asking the right questions when it comes to identity and are we starting in the right place? Martyn discusses the true starting point for Biblical identity and the questions we should be asking ourselves and our children. You can find Martyn’s book at Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/who-am-i-solving-the-identity-puzzle

Nick Ellis is the Founder and CEO of Christian Halls, an alternative option for traditional University and trade school for students. Christian Halls uses the Oxford Model of higher education which is based around conversations with a small class size and a tutor guiding the class in their work toward their degrees. Using the method of education that was standard for centuries, students engage in thought-provoking dialogues, challenge preconceptions, foster critical thinking, and intertwine intellectual, spiritual, and vocational growth (taken from the Christian Halls literature). Nick explains the vision and mission of Christian Halls and tells us about the success of it in Brazil and in models happening right now in the US! To find out more about Christian Halls, you can visit their website at https://christianhalls.org/ or visit their YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@christianhallsinternational?si=oyqxHaqph57AO50q

Whether you are doing science yourself and it’s going well or you need to challenge your science-oriented child, or you just need HELP!, this episode is for you! Brian Young shares with us all about Master Books Academy science classes for elementary through high school. His love for science and the fun he has with it is contagious and such a great supplement to what you are already doing with your child(ren). Join us as he discusses not only what is covered in these online classes, but, also why it’s so important to teach science from a biblical perspective. You can find Master Books Academy at: https://www.masterbooks.com/introducing-master-books-academy

We’re back with another book club! This time Susan shares with us her favorite Thanksgiving and Christmas books for family members of all ages. To find the books mentioned in this episode you can visit the MÂCHÉ Book Club Amazon list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RCLMLEBP73VY?ref_=wl_share For The Candle in the Window book from Lamplighter, you can go to this link: https://lamplighter.net/?s=The+Candle+in+the+Window&post_type=product&dgwt_wcas=1

Revealing Arithmetic is a companion book to any math curriculum that helps to bring math concepts to life in a Biblical Worldview. As you work through basic math concepts like addition, subtraction, all the way up to factoring and multi-digit operations, you can use Revealing Arithmetic to drive home the way God is woven into the very fabric of math. Katherine talks about her motivation behind writing Revealing Arithmetic and the importance of why we, as parents, should bring Biblical Truth to math. We also talk about the companion timeline: The Big Book of Math which is a beautiful and colorful STEM timeline from creation to modern day. You can find these resources at: https://www.masterbooks.com/revealing-arithmetic Other math curriculum from Master Books, including Katherine’s curriculum, Principles of Mathematics, can be found at https://www.masterbooks.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Katherine+Hannon&p=1 You can also find her Academy High School Courses at https://www.masterbooksacademy.com/

Patricia Engler is a Christian Apologetics speaker, author, and podcast host for Answers in Genesis. In her book, Prepare to Thrive: A Survival Guide for Christian Students, she outlines how Christian students can prepare themselves for leaving home and going to college. In this episode, she outlines the 3 types of personal foundations students need to have in order to maintain a growing faith in Jesus. You can find Patricia’s book here: https://answersingenesis.org/store/product/prepare-thrive/ To find the book, Already Compromised, mentioned in this episode you can go here: https://answersingenesis.org/store/product/already-compromised-book/

Mellany is a blogger, a MN homeschool mom, and a passionate home maker. She shares with us how we can create a sanctuary in our homes for our children and family to thrive. Join us for an encouraging and challenging time of taking stock of our vision for our home and how we can begin to really walk in what God has called us to do. To find Mellany’s blog, go to www.sanctuaryofhome.com

First released in 1987, The Lie has been updated to address critical issues like gender, sexuality, abortion, racism, and the exodus from the church, this book is essential for Christians seeking to defend their faith as well as passing it down to their children. Ken Ham addresses the importance of keeping true to the foundations of our faith in Genesis and how straying from those truths have impacted not only the church but our families as well. To order this important book visit this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/the-lie-updated-edition

Bringing a vision for the world to our children can be a challenge! Abby Joy has awesome strategies for stepping up as a family to instill a passion and vision for cultures and people around the world. Join us as she shares the importance of World Schooling to our families! For more information on Feed My Starving Children: https://www.fmsc.org/ Give Your Child the World: https://a.co/d/hAag2Ld Operation World: https://operationworld.org/ Go Global: https://cultivatedlearning.org/go-global/ Gather ‘Round: https://gatherroundhomeschool.com/ World Watch News: https://worldwatch.news/

As moms, wives, educators, chauffeurs, event coordinators, planners, cleaners, chefs, personal shoppers…the list goes on and on…we can get bogged down in the daily needs of others around us. How can we prioritize a healthy time away to reconnect with the Lord and be renewed so we can continue to give? Abby has the solution! Her team is planning Homeschool Mom Retreats in MN! To get information about it and to sign up please go here: https://familystylelearning.wordpress.com/retreat/? If you are interested in Abby’s YouTube channel, Family Style Learning, you can go here: https://youtube.com/@familystylelearning?si=XSIJMr5eCxRl3xdA

Right Start Math is a hands-on, award-winning program that uses games and minimal worksheets in the younger grades to make math a fun and engaging subject for your child. It is set up with levels rather than grades, so that your child can begin at the proper level and advance at their own pace. The goal is to help your child understand, apply, and enjoy mathematics while building a solid foundation for higher level math. You can find Right Start Math here: www.rightstartmath.com

Maybe this is your first time graduating a homeschool student who will be going to college, this one is for you! The admissions and financial aid staff from Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankney, IA answer questions to help streamline the application process for any college your student chooses, but also talks about what they do at FBBC. Faith Baptist Bible College: https://faith.edu/ Apply to FBBC: https://apply.faith.edu/ $99 dual enrollment with FBBC (your first course): https://faith.edu/academics/#dual-credit Fill out the FAFSA: https://studentaid.gov/ Scholarship Weekend: https://faith.edu/event/fall-scholarship-weekend/ Transcript Template: https://faith.edu/build-transcript/ Any questions can be emailed to Dana Blomberg at blombergd@faith.edu

Marxism is an ideology that has permeated cultures, education, and even churches which makes it difficult for those holding fast to a pure Biblical worldview. What is Marxism? How has it made its way into the church and potentially into our lives as Christians? How can we combat this as Christians? Patricia Engler traveled to the very beginnings of Marxism and researched its roots to write this book. In this episode she discusses what she found and how we, as Biblical Christians, can uphold a solid worldview and teach that Biblical worldview to our children. You can find her book here: https://answersingenesis.org/search/?refinement=store&q=Modern+Marxism One of the books brought up in this episode, Faultlines, can be found here: https://answersingenesis.org/store/product/fault-lines/ Another book, Sherpherds for Sale, can be found here: https://a.co/d/d2eD98n To find Patricia’s podcast for Answers in Genesis, Zero Compromise, you can go Spotify or wherever you find podcasts!

Math can be intimidating and teaching concepts like fractions can be downright complicated! Kathleen Clayton from Right Start Math is back to talk about how Right Start teaches this concept. Right Start uses games and hands-on activities to teach math. For a download of the chart she refers to, click here: https://rightstartmath.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Fraction-Chart.jpg

We are back with another list of great books and authors for all ages! Susan is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to books and she is talking with us today about books for the whole family to enjoy. If you want some great recommendations or are just looking for some fun reading, join us! You can find all of today’s recommendations as well as past book clubs on the MÂCHÉ book list on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2RCLMLEBP73VY?ref_=wl_share

PSEO is an amazing opportunity for homeschool students and families, but, it can be daunting! Amanda Fisher is here to help! She works for Crown College in their PSEO department helping families to navigate everything they need to know. Join us as she helps us to understand the process and to think strategically when planning our student’s future. https://www.crown.edu/academics/pseo/ To learn how your co-op or to set up a group in your area for students to take classes together, you can find more information here: https://www.crown.edu/academics/pseo/homeschool-partners/

A family of 5 homeschooled kids living in a houseboat on the point of the Atchafalaya River in the bayou of Louisiana and have wonderful adventures and mysteries together with their family in this engaging and wonderful book series written by Chris Landry. Not only is this a great series, but, Jade and Chris have also written a curriculum that includes reading, vocabulary, and writing to go alongside their award-winning books. You can find their series at: https://www.cajunkids.com/

The state and federal government wants to give money to homeschooling families under the umbrella of “School Choice”. What does this mean for you, your family, and the future of homeschooling? Is this a blessing or something else? Aby Rinella has done a lot of research into this topic and shares with us all that she has learned. Join us as we discuss the origins of school choice and what is really behind the money. For more information on this subject you can go here: https://homeschoolidaho.org/school-choice/

Finding a good curriculum or study to do with teenagers to draw them into the Word and conversations about their faith can be a challenge! Enter the Foundations in Worship study from Master Books. Today Kristy Smith will discuss working through this deep content with her 4 teenage daughters and the fruit she has seen as a result. This book is a study for high school in hymns and can cover Bible and/or Music study as an elective with the ability to give a credit toward graduation. It incorporates not only scripture study, listening to music, great conversation starters, but, also an oral presentation component. But, above all, it is a chance to go deep into faith with our teenagers and get them into the Word in a real way. To find “Foundations in Worship” please visit this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/foundations-in-worship

Ken Ham is the founding CEO of Answers in Genesis, the Creation Museum, and the Ark Encounter. As one of the most in demand speakers in North America, he shares the relevance and authority of the book of Genesis and how compromise on Genesis has opened a dangerous door. Join us as he talks about climate change and a Biblical response. His new book, Climate Change for Kids…and parents too!, is a great resource for families on the Biblical response Christians should take regarding climate change. You can find his new book at Master Books: https://www.masterbooks.com/climate-change-for-kids-and-parents-too for more information on the Creation Museum you can click here: https://www.creationmuseum.org For more information on the Ark Encounter you can go to this link: https://arkencounter.com To find information on Answers in Genesis follow this link: https://answersingenesis.org/

Making History come alive is exactly what Marilyn Boyer’s series, Notable Lives in History, does for anyone who picks up and reads one of the books! We covered 3 of her books previously, but, today we talk about her newly released, Famous American Statesmen. Learn the stories behind the history lesson—this books is a must-have as a companion book for any American History curriculum! For more information on Marilyn and to order her books, visit this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/famous-american-statesmen To vote in the contest for favorite American Hero—or Animal Hero go to this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/blog/american-hero-vote-today

Heritage Defense is a non-profit legal advocacy organization fighting for the rights of parents to raise their family biblically and in the foundation of Christ. Bradley talks with us today about the vision of Heritage Defense and how they could help you if you find your family under attack. To contact Heritage Defense click here: www.heritagedefense.org

Keeping children engaged in Language Arts can be a challenge! Where do you find a curriculum that covers reading, comprehension, spelling, handwriting, vocabulary, punctuation, observation, poetry, psalms, and hands-on activities to drive it all home? Enter Language Lessons for a Living Education! This curriculum has all the above in a colorful and easy to use book. The teacher prompts and appendices are invaluable and all done within one book, which also includes lesson plans and lists of easy to find household supplies to do all activities in the book. Join Kristen Pratt as she talks not only about the curriculum she wrote, but, also how she weaves scripture and Biblical Truth throughout each lesson.

Finding stories to supplement your history that are engaging, interesting, and fun as well as educational can be difficult but the “Notable Lives From History” books by Marilyn Boyer do just that. They are incredible! Join us as Marilyn talks about the stories and the series of books that can make history come alive and enjoyable to your family. You can find her series on Master Books at https://www.masterbooks.com/what-a-character-series

MÂCHÉ offers a lot of different resources for homeschooling families and one of those experiences is graduation! If you are wanting to celebrate your graduating senior, this is for you. Keith Soencksen talks all about MÂCHÉ’’s Graduation ceremony and reception, how you can get involved, and why it’s important. For more information email Keith at graduation@mache.org

This newest book from John Stamper gives profiles of 9 people, historical and modern-day, who have stood courageously for their faith in overwhelming circumstances. In this episode John talks about his new book, the courage it takes to stand against today’s challenges facing us and our children, and where that courage comes from. To find John’s book you can follow this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/courage-to-stand

What about those pesky chores? This is a big question that I hear from families. What age do you start expecting them to do things.. what is appropriate for each age group…how do you keep them accountable…allowance or no allowance? These are age-old questions all parents face at one time or another throughout their time of raising their children, sometimes more frequently than others. In this episode I talk about chores and all that encompasses them: How to maintain a schedule, what to expect from each age group, how to address allowance, and the importance of keeping the schedule loosely.

We wish you a Merry Christmas with the board couples who serve you at MÂCHÉ!

DNA is the very foundation and building block of life. Dr. Rivera calls it God’s “recipe book” for all life in her new book DNA, God, and You from Master Books. Join us as Dr. Rivera talks about how to bring this amazing science to your homeschooled students from Middle School through High School! DNA, God, and You!: https://www.masterbooks.com/dna-god-and-you The Work of Your Hand: https://www.masterbooks.com/the-work-of-your-hand Intro to Forensic Science (High School course with Labs): https://www.masterbooks.com/intro-to-forensic-science-set Replacing Darwin: https://www.masterbooks.com/replacing-darwin Traced: https://www.masterbooks.com/traced YouTube series with Dr. Nathaniel Jeanson: The New History of the Human Race: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1v9pqs4w1mwrGlCET76Rs99Fx0EfJXE4&si=dus_nBhyMr3ZD9nV Traced: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1v9pqs4w1mzxnSlpFs-QmE-cAFm12398&si=g5vZyft3CQ1Z9DVj

As homeschooling families we all agree that arts are an important part of our children’s education, but, what do you do when you aren’t musical or artistic? Stacy Saxon has the answer for those who want to give their children a good musical education but they aren’t musical themselves. As a homeschool mom Stacy understands what a homeschool looks like and what home educators need to teach a good foundation in music. “How To Teach Music When You’re Not Musical” is a comprehensive homeschool musical curriculum that has everything you need to teach in one book. This curriculum covers topics such as sound, orchestra, music in movies, music in video games, making your own instruments, and vocalization. To find Stacy’s book visit her website at http://www.musicisforever.net

Catch On to Cursive is a whole child, Bible based approach to cursive written in a colorful, story-driven book. Because she was a special education teacher, Carrie understands the importance of teaching cursive and the skill children receive from the exercises she has written into the curriculum. In this episode Carrie discusses the importance for children to practice cursive and handwriting and how it works toward their fluency in reading and other subject areas. To find Catch On to Cursive, go to Master Books: http://www.masterbooks.com/catch-on-to-cursive Also, keep an eye out on Master Books for Carrie Bailey’s new handwriting curriculum for younger students, Handwriting A to Zoo!

Today is a 2 for 1! Carrie Lindquist has written amazing curriculum for your early reader and explorer! Foundations Phonics is written in such a teacher/parent friendly way so that you can just pick it up and teach your child without a lot of teacher prep. Everything you need is included in the one book and in your own home! This is an engaging, hands-on curriculum that starts with a Biblical foundation and God’s character to teach your child phonics. Carrie has also written Adventures in Creation to teach children an overview of all the sciences in one school year! This curriculum is fun, engaging, and easily taught, again, with all things from your home! While this is aimed at 1st grade, it is easily adapted for younger and older so you can use this book to teach all your children at the same time. All through this curriculum you will see how Carrie weaves God’s plan for us through His wonderful creation! https://www.masterbooks.com/foundations-phonics https://www.masterbooks.com/adventures-in-creation-level-1

“Critical Race Theory undermines the character of individuals by perpetuating prejudice and injustice, rather than promoting true equality. Character cannot thrive with injustice, nor can equality be achieved through prejudice.” —Bryan Osborne CRT is something that has worked it’s way not only into our secular world and schools, but, also our churches and Christian world. How can you know when you are listening to ideas rooted in CRT? How can you talk with your kids about it and what it really is and where it comes from? Preparing our children has never been more important. This is where Bryan’s book comes in —it is an easy-to-understand work on where CRT originates from and what language is used to communicate the tenants of CRT. You can find Bryan’s book at this link: https://www.masterbooks.com/woke-injustice

In a world that can feel overwhelming and chaotic how do we create a home that is rooted in Christ and Biblical values for our family? What simple habits can we do right now to make home a sacred and safe place for our family to thrive and grow in their relationship with the Lord? Jennifer Pepito talks today about how we can make our homes a sacred place to seek God and to raise our family. She challenges us to change the world by changing your home one habit at a time. If you are interested in Jennifer’s book, Habits for a Sacred Home 9 Practices from History to Anchor and Restore Modern Families, you can order it here: https://www.thepeacefulpreschool.com/habitsforasacredhome To listen to Jennifer’s podcast, Restoration Home, you can go to Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

ScreenStrong empowers families to prevent screen addiction and reclaim their kids from problematic screen use (social media, video games, and pornography). Their solutions are not screen-free; rather they replace toxic screen use with healthy activities, life skill development, and family connections. This is how ScreenStrong defines their mission on their website and it’s absolutely true. Melanie Hempe shares her personal experience with her son, Adam, and their journey with him dealing with his addiction to screen time and how that affected him into adulthood. You can find all the information about ScreenStrong on their website: www.screenstrong.org You can also find Melanie and her team on the ScreenStrong Families Podcast

Discipling our families is a big job! Today Anne Butler, author of Feast of Inquiry, encourages us to prioritize the time we spend with our families leading them into the presence of God and teaching them all about Biblical truths. Join us as Anne discusses her book and how it can help you not only with leading your children and family into great discussions about the Bible, but, can also get the Word of God deep into your own heart. You can find out more about Anne on her website https://www.tablelearningresources.com/ You can find Feast of Inquiry at Feast of Inquiry: Discussion Questions to Serve Our Souls From Every New Testament Chapter https://a.co/d/a4WRyTF You can also find The Bible Project at https://youtube.com/@bibleproject?si=s3lSkSm4EZhaPOgG

This is the episode you’ve been waiting for without realizing it! Kirk Martin has helped thousands of parents learn to calmly parent our children who are strong-willed, always one step ahead, or neurodivergent. Kirk is a homeschool dad who understands the pressures of parenting and home educating at the same time and addresses these parenting issues with humor, compassion, and wisdom. To find out more about Kirk and to listen to his podcast “Calm Parenting” you can follow these links: www.celebratecalm.com https://open.spotify.com/show/3ZWuMa7fheULcg93VU2S9a?si=5uUMKURzQiaKSb3wmY5UTA

Traditions, favorite foods, fun family time, and memories—what are some of the people at MÂCHÉ thankful for? Join Rob Prigge, Executive Director, Karen Soencksen, Convention Director, and Kelly Lundgren, Executive Assistant as they share all about what they love about Thanksgiving and what they are thanking God for this year. Happy Thanksgiving!

The Holidays aren’t always a happy time for everyone. Sometimes you are dealing with the loss of a family member, a job, or your dealing with sickness or other losses that can make the holidays an isolating and sad time. Karen and Shelly from MÂCHÉ share their stories of loss during the holidays and talk about the process of healing, grieving, celebrating, and grace. If you are struggling this year, you are not alone. We at MÂCHÉ are here for you—we want to pray for you . You can contact us at info@mache.org

Math can be an intimidating subject for parents and students at any age and it can strip the joy of learning away quickly! Enter Angela O’Dell’s math program, Math: Lessons for a Living Education. For those of you looking for an engaging, colorful, Biblically-based, story-driven math curriculum, this is it. You can find Angela’s math curriculum no Master Books at https://www.masterbooks.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Angela%20O%E2%80%99Dell You can also find Angela on her podcast, Real Cool History for Kids, on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Podcasts.

Join us as we talk with Rob Vagi of Wilder Podcast and Academy about the value of using nature to educate your kids! www.wilderoutdooracademy.com or on Spotify and Apple Podcast

What are ESAs? How do they affect you as a homeschool family? What is the difference between a tax credit and and ESA? We tackle all of this and more in this episode with Amy Buchmeyer a lawyer with Homeschool Legal Defense Association. For more information on this topic, visit https://hslda.org/post/dont-take-the-money-the-risks-of-education-savings-accounts-ep-110

Kris Cox talks about getting started strong in homeschooling in Minnesota, from laws, reporting, curriculum, and just setting the atmosphere in your home. Links: https://hswithconfidence.com/7-steps-to-getting-started-with-homeschooling For legal info: https://mache.org/man-law/ or https://hslda.org/

Brave Books is approaching publishing from a completely different point of view. Cooper Bell tells us all about how Brave Books got it’s start to the universe it is creating with the wonderful and timely topics their authors are covering. At the end of the interview he has some great new things to announce for homeschoolers! Tune in and find out how to integrate Brave Books into your school year and family! Visit them at www.bravebooks.us to explore the world of Brave Books!

Peggy Ployhar is an expert in homeschooling children with special needs, neuro diversities, and twice exceptional children. Peggy started SPED Homeschool when she was working with families homeschooling their children and finding it hard to get resources they needed. SPED Homeschool is a place to find a wealth of resources for almost anything you would need as a homeschooler of special needs children. You can find Peggy at www.spedhomeschool.com Also find the article referenced by Peggy of Dianne Craft’s Healing Teaching at www.diannecraft.org

Navigating the world of college for homeschoolers can be daunting and confusing. Kristin gives a lot of great information about all the ways you can strategically plan for your child to earn college credits from home starting in 8th or 9th grade! Links discussed in this podcast are as follows: Credits Before College website: https://creditsbeforecollege.com Career Guidance with a Career Direct Assessment: https://creditsbeforecollege.com/career-guidance/ Curriculum and Resources for purchase: https://creditsbeforecollege.com/store/ Free CLEP exams: https://modernstates.org/ Test Prep and Review (use code 85513 for $5 discount): https://instantcert.com Practice Exams: https://www.petersons.com/ Career Exploration: https://www.onetonline.org/ Planning for Credit Transfer between Colleges: https://www.transferology.com/index.htm MN PSEO: https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/schfin/pseo/ MN State Colleges and Universities: https://www.minnstate.edu/ https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/120B.131

Julia is a homeschool mom of 4 and a 2nd generation homeschooler who is passionate about giving kids the best start into adulthood. She shares with us her strategies for launching kids from home to life. She recommends resources from Dr. Kathy Koch https://celebratekids.com/about/

Join us as we talk with Karen Soencksen all about the 2024 MÂCHÉ Convention! We will talk about how to get free or discounted registration, the used book curriculum sale, Leadership Forum, and special events happening all throughout the convention you don’t want to miss!

Leah continues to share the science and development importance of incorporating music into our children’s education. Here are links that were referenced in this episode: www.prodigies.com and www.hoffmanacademy.com