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Start / Raising Lifelong Learners
Raising Lifelong Learners
The Raising Lifelong Learners podcast helps parents -- especially homeschooling parents -- encourage their differently-wired kids to learn, explore passions, cultivate creativity, and become fascinate...
267 avsnitt • Längd: 40 min • Månadsvis
Om podden
The Raising Lifelong Learners podcast helps parents — especially homeschooling parents — encourage their differently-wired kids to learn, explore passions, cultivate creativity, and become fascinated by the world around them. Join host Colleen Kessler — educational consultant, gifted specialist, author, and speaker — for interviews, audioblogs, tips, and encouragement to help your differently-wired kiddos become lifelong learners — children who know that they can find the answers to anything they want to know if they can just view their world with play, passion, and fascination.
The podcast Raising Lifelong Learners is created by Colleen Kessler. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
Avsnitt
Homeschooling to Celebrate and Nurture Your Child’s Spark
23 april 2025 |
26 min
This week’s episode of the podcast is truly close to my heart. We dove deep into what it means to truly embrace our kiddos’ unique sparks and passions, especially for our neurodivergent learners.
If you sometimes worry about your child being “too focused” on one thing, or wonder how to support their big interests when the world doesn’t always get it, you’re not alone—and this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Why Intensity is a Feature, Not a Bug: It can feel overwhelming when your child hyper-focuses on trains, bugs, Minecraft, or musical theater. But that intensity? It’s a strength to celebrate, not a flaw to fix. Leaning into our kids’ passions not only boosts confidence, but helps them become the resilient, creative adults they’re meant to be.
- Breaking Out of the Comparison Trap: It’s easy to fall into “shoulds.” They should be reading more, should be more well-rounded, should make friends easily. But every kid grows at their own pace. Instead of trying to mold them into what the world expects, let’s help them lean into who they already are.
- Meet Them Where They Are Supporting our quirky, passionate kids isn’t always easy—especially when we worry about the “real world.” Remember, the world needs outside-the-box thinkers, problem solvers, and joy-chasers. When we show our kids their interests are valued, we’re setting them up for lifelong confidence.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Igniting Your Kids’ Passions
- Passions, Pressure, and Letting Our Kids Let Go
- Helping Kids Pursue Passions While Maintaining Peace of Mind
- Cultivating Leadership Skills in Homeschooling
- Inspire a Love for Learning at Home
- Rethinking Content | Transforming Education Through Homeschooling
The Power of Connection in Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kids
16 april 2025 |
34 min
In this episode, we dive deep into the power of connection and how it can transform your homeschool and family life. Homeschooling, especially with differently wired kiddos, comes with its set of challenges, and prioritizing connection over perfection is the key to a thriving environment where your children feel safe, seen, and valued.
Key Takeaways:
- The 'Why' Behind Connection: It's not just a nice-to-have; it's neurologically necessary, especially for our neurodivergent kiddos.
- Real-Life Connection Strategies: From morning cuddles to evening debriefs, we're sharing practical ways to weave connection into your day without overwhelming yourself.
- Overcoming Challenges: Sensory overload, power struggles, perfectionism, and parental guilt—these common roadblocks don't stand a chance against the strategies we cover.
- Become a Student of Your Child: Learn unique ways to tune into your child’s needs and how those small, consistent moments can make all the difference.
Plus, our upcoming Family Connection Challenge in The Learner's Lab will provide fun activities and prizes to help reinforce these principles in an engaging way.
Remember, your presence and effort are so much more valuable than you might think. You are already doing an incredible job just by showing up, listening to resources like this, and loving your kids in the best way you know how.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- The Power of Connecting with Your Kids in Homeschooling
- A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids
- RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
- RLL 10 Sarah MacKenzie: Building Connections Through Books
- Inspire a Love for Learning at Home
- Developing Confidence in Differently Wired Kids
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Cultivating Leadership Skills in Homeschooling
2 april 2025 |
28 min
This week's episode is all about cultivating leadership skills in our kiddos, especially those amazing outside-the-box thinkers.
We dive into a type of leadership that’s less about rallying a group and more about creativity, kindness, and empathy. We go over ways to nurture these qualities in your homeschool environment and everyday family life. This is part of our focus for the month in the Learner's Lab, where leadership takes center stage.
Key Takeaways:
- Why Leadership Matters: Discover how leadership skills enhance problem-solving, empathy, and adaptability, crucial for every child, especially in neurodivergent families.
- Homeschool Activities: Try fun activities like planning field trips and hosting family meetings to foster leadership in children. Perfect for practical application at home!
- Creative Leadership: Explore how homeschool settings provide the perfect environment for kids to experiment and build resilience without external pressures.
- Resources Galore: We have a treasure trove of resources, including books, movies, and unit studies, plus four years of activities in the Learner’s Lab to enrich your homeschool journey.
Also, don’t miss our upcoming EQ Quest in The Learner's Lab, where your family can dive into emotional intelligence activities centered on leadership. It's a fantastic opportunity for you and your kids to learn and grow together.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Why Play Matters | Unleashing Lifelong Learning Through Play
- What Does a Gifted Child Look Like?
- Embracing Child-Focused Learning | A Guide for Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
- 100 Hints That Your Child May Be Gifted
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence
- Cultivating Commitment and Follow Through
- Why Gamified Learning Works So Well For Gifted Children
- The Power Of Inquiry Based Learning For Gifted Children
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Understanding Impulse Control in Gifted and Neurodivergent Kids
27 mars 2025 |
28 min
We're diving into an essential topic in this week's podcast episode that's sure to resonate with many of you—developing impulse control in our neurodivergent kids.
As we know, impulse control can be particularly challenging for gifted, twice-exceptional, and neurodivergent kiddos. Let's break down why our unique learners face these challenges and talk practical strategies to support them in everyday scenarios.
Key Takeaways:
- Create a Flexible Learning Environment: Shorter lessons with frequent breaks help cater to brains seeking novelty.
- Role-Playing Social Situations: Practice different responses to improve social impulse control.
- Calm Down Spaces: Designate a quiet corner with sensory tools for emotional regulation.
- Gamify Focus: Turn attention skills into a fun challenge to encourage progress.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Don’t forget, The Learner’s Lab is also a fantastic resource for in-depth strategies, activities, and group coaching sessions that can further aid your journey in supporting your child’s development.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Psychomotor Overexcitabilities And Gifted Children: What You Need To Know
- Psychomotor Overexcitabilities: Helping Your Child Thrive
- Managing Your Child’s Intensity During the Holidays
- 100 Hints That Your Child May Be Gifted
- Knowing If Your Child is Gifted
- Play-Based Learning In Your Homeschool: It’s More Than Just Board Games
- Moms With ADHD Homeschooling Children With ADHD
- Motivating Your Child With ADHD: 7 Tips For Your Homeschool
- Homeschooling Tips For Wiggly Kids
- ADHD And Your Homeschool: An Overview
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Inspire a Love for Learning at Home
12 mars 2025 |
41 min
In today's episode, we dive into the concept of nurturing a lifelong love of learning for our children. It's all about cultivating curiosity, encouraging them to ask questions, and guiding them through self-directed projects. You'll hear personal stories of fostering self-discovery and adaptability in kids, emphasizing the power of modeling this mindset ourselves. We explored practical ways to inspire an atmosphere of learning at home and how to balance structure and freedom.
Remember, it's the process of learning that truly matters. Keep that curiosity alive! Tune in for more insights.
Key Takeaways:
- Encourage Curiosity: Foster an environment where asking questions is welcomed. Curiosity is the key to lifelong learning, allowing children to explore new ideas and be confident in seeking knowledge.
- Model a Growth Mindset: Show children that their skills can be developed through effort and that there's always more to learn. This mindset guides them to embrace challenges and seek out learning opportunities.
- Create a Learning-Friendly Environment: Incorporate books, art supplies, and science tools throughout your home to naturally invite exploration and curiosity in your children's daily lives.
- Focus on Interests: Lean into your children’s passions. Let their interests guide their learning journeys, as this interest-led approach can nurture a deeper love for learning and personal development.
- Promote Self-Directed Learning: Encourage children to take on projects and explore topics autonomously. This empowers them to become self-motivated and resourceful learners.
- Emphasize Process Over Product: Celebrate the effort and journey your children take in learning something new rather than just the end result. This builds resilience and a healthy attitude toward continuous learning.
- Incorporate Play in Learning: Use games and playful activities to teach valuable skills and reinforce learning. This approach enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in a fun, engaging way.
Keep an eye out for new courses and coaching programs, perfect for your family. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it’s the best way to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Don’t forget, The Learner’s Lab is also a fantastic resource for in-depth strategies, activities, and group coaching sessions that can further aid your journey in supporting your child’s development.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Sparking Curiosity | Nurturing a Love of Learning in Your Child
- Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool
- Strewing in Your Homeschool to Spark Curiosity
- Strew to Learn | Five Days of Inspiration and Support For Strewing In Your Homeschool
- Creative Thinking Activities for Kids
- The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children
6 mars 2025 |
27 min
In this episode of the podcast, we dive into what executive function skills actually are, likening them to a control center or the CEO of your body. These skills encompass planning, organization, time management, task initiation, working memory, and self-regulation, among others. But why do so many gifted and neurodivergent kids struggle with them?
The answer often lies in asynchronous development. Different parts of their brain mature at different rates, leading to a brilliant child who can solve complex math problems, yet forgets their socks. But rest assured, executive function skills can be taught and strengthened over time!
Key Takeaways:
- Visibility Matters: Use visual schedules and step-by-step breakdowns for tasks. This makes intangible routines more tangible for your child.
- Teach Time Awareness: Utilize visual timers and create consistent routines. Games like "Beat the Timer" can make learning time fun rather than stressful.
- Incorporate Breaks & Movement: Allow your children to move around, use brain breaks, and include snacks to reset focus.
- One Task at a Time: Present tasks singularly to prevent overwhelm and foster success.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming course on executive function skills, perfect for you and your child to work through together. Stay tuned for more information by joining our newsletter if you haven’t already—it's the best way to ensure you're up-to-date with the latest resources and support.
Don’t forget, The Learner's Lab is also a fantastic resource for in-depth strategies, activities, and group coaching sessions that can further aid your journey in supporting your child's development.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins
- Strengthen Executive Function Skills
- The Best Books for Teaching About Executive Functions Skills
- 7 Executive Functioning Activities for Small Children
- RLL #84: Exploring Education and Executive Function with Seth Perler
- The Unmeasured Executive Functioning Issue
- RLL 20: Helping Your Kiddo with Executive Function Skills Struggles | A Listener Question
- RLL LIVE | Improving Executive Functions
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Understanding Asynchrony in Gifted Children
12 februari 2025 |
37 min
In this week's episode, we talk about the Columbus Group's definition of giftedness as asynchronous development—a combination of advanced cognitive abilities and heightened intensity that requires modifications in parenting and teaching.
This unique development makes our children particularly vulnerable, demanding that we think outside the box.
So, what does this mean for us as homeschooling parents? It means we have the opportunity to enrich our children's learning experiences far beyond what a traditional school setting can offer. We can customize education to meet our children's individual needs and foster a love for learning that embraces their strengths and supports their weaknesses.
Key Takeaways:- Adjust Your Expectations: Embrace the fact that your child will excel in some areas and may need additional support in others. Celebrate their unique strengths and work on shoring up their weaknesses using their interests.
- Customize Education: Instead of relying on boxed curricula, consider using placement tests and mixing different curriculum options to suit your child's diverse learning levels.
- Find Intellectual Peers: Intellectual peers are crucial for gifted kids. Seek opportunities for your child to interact with others who share similar interests or intellectual abilities, whether through online classes, gifted programs, or local meetups.
- Support Emotional Growth: Help your child learn emotional regulation skills and teach them how to manage frustration, using their passions to tackle areas of struggle.
- Enhance Executive Function Skills: Structure your child’s day with checklists or planners and break tasks into small, manageable steps. Celebrate progress over perfection.
- Parenting a gifted child isn't always easy, but remember—you are not alone, and your efforts are creating a nurturing environment where your child can thrive.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Homeschool Curriculum for Your Asynchronous Gifted Learner
- Meeting the Asynchronous Needs of Your Gifted Child
- RLL #77: Asynchronous Development in Gifted Children
- RLL 24: Asynchrony, Intensity, and Motivation | A Listener Question
- Homeschooling Gifted Children | Meeting Asynchronous Abilities
- Asynchronous Development in Gifted Children
- What Does a Gifted Child Look Like?
- Embracing Interest-Led Homeschooling with Lydia Rosado
- Navigating Intensity and Giftedness | Insights from Christine Fonseca
- 100 Hints That Your Child May Be Gifted
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Developing Confidence in Differently Wired Kids
29 januari 2025 |
24 min
This week, we wrap up our series on the 6 Cs of Homeschooling Success from Colleen's new book, The Homeschool Advantage. In this final episode, we dive deep into the power of Confidence and how to nurture it in our kiddos.
Key Takeaways:
Encourage the Willingness to Try:
- Confidence begins with the courage to take risks and step out of comfort zones.
- Emphasizing the effort over instant understanding encourages kids to keep trying new things.
Develop Persistence and Grit:
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Persistence, or "grit," is crucial for sticking with long-term goals even when facing challenges.
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Providing a safe space for failure and growth helps build resilient, capable adults.
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Model Confidence Through Action:
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Our kids are always watching us; showing how we handle setbacks and take risks teaches them valuable lessons.
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Praising effort over intelligence and asking reflective questions help them learn from mistakes and build self-belief.
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Dive into this episode to learn more about fostering confidence in your homeschool journey!
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It’s a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
-
The Powerful Relationship Between Confidence And Learning In Our Homeschools
-
A Deep Dive into The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
-
Embracing Child-Focused Learning | A Guide for Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
-
The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
-
Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Embracing Creativity in Homeschooling
17 januari 2025 |
25 min
In this week's episode, we dive deep into a favorite topic—creativity. This episode is all about how to nurture and develop creativity in your children, teaching them to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to everyday problems.
Here's a snapshot of what to expect in this episode:
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Creativity: Creativity extends beyond just the arts and can be applied in science, business, and problem-solving.
- Nurturing Creativity: It's important to create an environment at home that supports and encourages creative thinking.
- Creative Thinking in Action: Creativity impacts children's perceptions of themselves positively as creative individuals.
Listen to the episode now and explore how you can cultivate a culture of creativity within your homeschool.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It's a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Anxiety Toolkit
- Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking | A Conversation with Puzzlemaker Eric Berlin
- Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment
- Creative Thinking Activities for Kids
- RLL #90: Cultivating Creative Writers with Celeste Davidson
- Great Resources for Curious & Creative Homeschoolers
- Finding Peace in a Life Filled with Intensity: Managing Overexcitabilities in Smart and Creative Kids
- RLL 06 S.D. Smith: Cultivating Creativity Through New Stories with an Old Soul
- Inspiring Creativity in Kids
- Raising Creative Kids | Upcycled Finger Puppets
- Raising Creative Kids | Simple Prompts to Spark Imagination
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
The Role of Critical Thinking in Homeschooling
8 januari 2025 |
25 min
In today's episode, we chat about the fourth C of homeschooling success: Critical Thinking.
This indispensable skill is more relevant than ever in our fast-paced, information-saturated world.
Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect from Episode 267:
Key Takeaways:
- Definition and Importance of Critical Thinking: Understand what critical thinking truly means and why it's crucial for our kids to develop this ability.
- Engaging Your Kids: Learn practical strategies, such as asking open-ended questions, storytelling, and integrating games and play to foster critical thinking at home.
- Real-Life Applications: Discover how discussing literature and everyday situations can build your child’s ability to analyze, evaluate, and form independent judgments.
- Respectful Parenting: Create an environment that values curiosity and respects differing opinions, setting the stage for lifelong learners who are confident to question and innovate.
Listen to the episode now and explore how you can cultivate a culture of critical thinking within your homeschool.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab my new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It's a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Ultimate Growing Unit Study Bundle
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Building Strong Family Bonds | A Conversation with Andee Martineau
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- The Anxiety Toolkit
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Rethinking Content | Transforming Education Through Homeschooling
4 december 2024 |
32 min
In today's episode, we unpacked the true essence of content in homeschooling. It’s not just about memorizing dates and facts but teaching our kids how to think, explore, and find answers.
We discussed tailoring education to each child's interests, embracing their natural curiosity, and making learning a lifelong journey. And remember, every child is unique, so there's no one-size-fits-all curriculum.
Join us next week as we dive into teaching critical thinking skills. Subscribe now and let's raise curious, capable lifelong learners together!
Key Takeaways:
- Explore how content is often misunderstood in traditional education and how homeschooling allows us to reframe it to foster more meaningful learning.
- Learn why focusing solely on content limits our children's potential.
- Discover why how to think and explore is more impactful than just teaching them what to memorize.
- Learn why there’s no perfect curriculum for everyone and how to find what fits best for your family.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab Colleen's new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It's a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Ultimate Growing Unit Study Bundle
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Building Strong Family Bonds | A Conversation with Andee Martineau
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- The Anxiety Toolkit
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Nurturing Communication Skills in Your Homeschool
21 november 2024 |
36 min
In this episode of the podcast, we explore the importance of nurturing communication skills at home. From weekly family meetings to a powerful personal story about her daughter Logan's experience with anxiety, Colleen shares invaluable insights on how open dialogue can build stronger relationships and boost children's confidence.
Discover how communication entwined with empathy is essential for thriving in today's world, and get tips on fostering these skills in homeschooling and digital environments. Plus, get a sneak peek into next week's topic—the third C, Content!
Key Takeaways:
- Weekly Family Meetings: Discover how traditionally held weekly meetings can foster mutual respect and support.
- Building Communication Skills: Learn why open dialogue and active listening are essential for relationship building, deep engagement with material, and confident growth.
- Social Media & Digital Etiquette: Get tips on helping your children navigate the online world responsibly, using real-life examples.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab Colleen's new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It's a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Building Strong Family Bonds | A Conversation with Andee Martineau
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- The Anxiety Toolkit
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Raising Successful Children | The Power of Collaboration in Homeschooling
13 november 2024 |
29 min
In this episode, we explore the importance of collaboration as a foundational skill for our children. From understanding the science behind our social brains to practical homeschooling tips, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring anecdotes.
Key Takeaways:
- The Six Cs:Dive into the six key skills identified by Dr. Kathy Hirsch Pasek—Collaboration, Communication, Content, Critical Thinking, Creativity, and Confidence—that foster lifelong learning.
- Storytime:Listen to Colleen's heartfelt story about her daughter Molly's innovative approach to a homeschool science project, illustrating the power of collaboration.
- Practical Tips:Discover ways to build collaborative skills at home, whether or not you're involved in a homeschool co-op, including creative projects, family meetings, and pretend play.
Sneak Peek at Next Week
Next week, we'll be focusing on Communication, the second of the six Cs. Colleen will discuss how this vital skill acts as a cornerstone for effective collaboration and how we can foster strong communication abilities in our kids.
Get the Book
For a deeper dive into these transformative concepts, don’t forget to grab Colleen's new book, The Homeschool Advantage, where you can explore chapter six and beyond. It's a fantastic resource filled with actionable advice for homeschool educators.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Building Strong Family Bonds | A Conversation with Andee Martineau
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- The Anxiety Toolkit
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Overcoming Sleep Struggles: Tips for Neurodiverse Families
31 oktober 2024 |
31 min
In this week's episode, we dive deep into a topic that's a challenge for many families: sleep. Whether you're homeschooling neurodivergent kiddos, navigating giftedness, twice-exceptionality, or simply dealing with heightened anxiety, quality sleep is essential—and tricky to achieve.
Key Takeaways:
- Establish Consistent Sleep Routines: Structure is essential for signaling our brains to wind down. Even simple routines like a warm bath, brushing teeth, and reading can make a substantial difference over time.
- Optimize the Sleep Environment: Tailor the bedroom setup to your child’s sensory preferences. From using white noise machines to experimenting with bedding textures, creating a sleep-friendly environment is foundational.
- Addressing Anxiety and Screen Time: Tools like worry boxes, guided meditation, and limiting screen time before bed can significantly reduce nighttime anxieties and help improve sleep quality.
Here's a challenge for you -- try to shake up your family's sleep routine, then share what's working! You can share and tag us on social media or hit reply to this email. Let's celebrate improved habits together!
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Do Gifted Kids Need Less Sleep? {Establishing Better Sleep Habits}
- This is Why Your Gifted Child Struggles to Fall Asleep
- 100 Hints That Your Child May Be Gifted
- The Anxiety Toolkit
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Why Play Matters | Unleashing Lifelong Learning Through Play
17 oktober 2024 |
28 min
In this episode, we dive deep into the power of play and why it matters at every stage of childhood! Whether you're homeschooling or just juggling parenting, incorporating play can ignite a lifelong love of learning and create magical moments of discovery.
From mealworm mazes to Viking bread, we explore how playful learning leads to unexpected adventures and lasting knowledge. So, gather your kids, embrace the fun, and let's make learning an exciting journey together!
Tune in now and discover practical tips and heartwarming stories that will inspire you to add more play into your routine.
Key Takeaways:
- Importance of Play: Play is crucial at all stages of development, not just early childhood. It supports critical thinking skills, creativity, problem-solving, and social and emotional development, which are essential for both neurotypical and neurodivergent children.
- Incorporating Play into Homeschooling: Play should be integrated into homeschooling to make learning enjoyable and effective. This can range from using building blocks and sensory bins for younger children to strategy games and creative projects for older kids.
- Adaptation of Play with Age: Play evolves as children grow. For young children, it might involve sensory play and role-playing. For older kids and teens, it can include activities like strategy games, creative hobbies, and physical activities.
- Educational Benefits of Play: Research indicates that playful learning is more effective than passive instruction. It allows kids to retain more information through hands-on, engaging activities.
- Social and Emotional Learning: Play enhances emotional intelligence and social skills. It helps children manage emotions, develop empathy, and understand different perspectives, which is especially beneficial for neurodivergent children.
- Unstructured vs. Structured Play: Both unstructured play (imaginative play, free play) and structured play (board games, organized sports) have unique educational benefits. Unstructured play fosters creativity and imagination, while structured play helps reinforce concepts and critical thinking.
- Play as a Gateway for Neurodivergent Kids: Playful learning can help neurodivergent children grasp difficult concepts more easily. For instance, kids with dyslexia might benefit from interactive word games, while children with dysgraphia could engage in playful handwriting exercises.
- Family Bonding through Play: Engaging in playful activities as a family strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. This could be through family game nights, outdoor adventures, or creative projects done together.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Embracing play, even when it deviates from expectations, models resilience and perseverance for children. It demonstrates that it's okay to enjoy the learning process and adapt to different situations.
- Continual Offering of Play: For children who resist play, it's important to keep offering and introducing new playful activities. Over time, they may find something that resonates with them, making learning more engaging and enjoyable.
Here's a challenge for you -- reflect on your week’s learning adventures and share them on social media (don’t forget to tag us!) or with us directly through the Learner's Lab. Let's celebrate curiosity and lifelong learning together!
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Embracing Play for Teens | Growth and Resilience
- Benefits of Keeping It Playful With Teens
- How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
- Play-Based Learning In Your Homeschool: It’s More Than Just Board Games
- The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
- Enjoy Your Kids: Play, Live, & Love Intentionally
- Teaching Kids to Play with Others
- The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega
- Magnificent Music Games
- The Ultimate Guide To Using Games In Your Homeschool
- Great Geography Games to Czech Out
- Games to Get You Moving
- Math Games to Multiply The Fun!
- Games to Help Improve Your Kid’s Emotional Intelligence
- Games to Help Kids Control Their Anger
- Games to Help Your Kids Learn Mindfulness at Home
- Learning with Games | Blocks Rock!
- Nature Themed Games Your Kids Will Love
- Amazing Science Games Your Kids Will Love
- One Person Logic Games that Rock
- Family Night Game Guide
- Top 25 Board Games
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Sparking Curiosity | Nurturing a Love of Learning in Your Child
9 oktober 2024 |
36 min
In our latest episode, we dive into how to ignite your child's curiosity by exploring topics together, even if it means using Google searches or watching fun educational videos. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, and foster a growth mindset by focusing on the process, not just the outcomes.
This episode, along with Colleen’s new book, offers tips for personalized education, especially for neurodivergent kids. Listen now, and let’s create a family culture of learning and make education an adventure!
Key Takeaways:
- Modeling Curiosity and Lifelong Learning: Encourage your children to explore their curiosities by actively engaging with them. Whether it's a topic they discovered on a show or an interest they saw in a book, learning together can be a fun and enriching experience.
- Embrace and Celebrate the Learning Process: Focus on the journey rather than the outcome. Celebrate both the small and big milestones, helping children appreciate their efforts and persistence. This can cultivate a growth mindset in them.
- Tailored Educational Experiences: Craft learning activities based on your child's unique interests and needs. This is especially effective for neurodivergent children. Personalized approaches, like using creative projects or alternative assessments, can make learning more impactful and engaging.
Here's a challenge for you -- reflect on your week’s learning adventures and share them on social media (don’t forget to tag us!) or with us directly through the Learner's Lab. Let's celebrate curiosity and lifelong learning together!
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Smart Underachievers: Reigniting a Love of Learning
- 8 Ways to Foster a Love of Learning in Your Children
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Falling Unexpectedly in Love With Homeschooling My Gifted Child
- A Deep Dive into The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Bring Joy Into Your Homeschool Day
- Enjoy Your Kids: Play, Live, & Love Intentionally
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
Finding Wonder and Joy in Everyday Homeschooling and Parenting
2 oktober 2024 |
46 min
In this episode, we explore the beautiful intersections of joy, wonder, and learning in your homeschooling journey. Colleen opens up about her struggles with perfectionism and how it has impacted her homeschooling and parenting. She encourages us to embrace the messiness of life to enjoy deeper connections and create memorable moments with our children.
Understanding and meeting our children’s sensory, emotional, and social needs can be challenging. Colleen shares practical ways to foster their interests and paving the way for curiosity-driven explorations. Whether through spontaneous activities like a surprise trip or simple joys like watching a favorite show, these moments enrich our relationship with our children.
Key Takeaways:
- Embracing life's messiness leads to deeper connections and memorable moments.
- It's vital to address and understand kids' sensory, emotional, and social needs. Meeting these needs can help them be more open to trying new things and reduce resistance.
- Joyful activities create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds.
- Being present and modeling joy, curiosity, and gratitude has a profound impact on children. It helps in nurturing their emotional well-being and encourages a positive outlook on life.
Finding wonder and joy in everyday homeschooling can create a rich and rewarding experience for both parents and children. It’s about embracing imperfections, adapting to unique needs, celebrating growth, and being present. Let's make room for joy and wonder in our homeschooling journey, nurturing a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- RLL #52: Overcoming Perfectionism and Finding Joy in Homeschooling
- 5 Ways to Enjoy Homeschooling Your Gifted Child
- Bring Joy Into Your Homeschool Day
- When Homeschool Looks Different: Embracing the Chaos and Finding Joy
- A Deep Dive into The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- RLL 13 Misty Bailey: Homeschooling, Finding Joy, and ADHD
- RLL 08 Melissa: Following Their Joy
- Bring Joy Into Your Homeschool Day
- Enjoy Your Kids: Play, Live, & Love Intentionally
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
When Homeschool Looks Different: Embracing the Chaos and Finding Joy
19 september 2024 |
43 min
In the latest episode we dive deep into the evolving and sometimes chaotic world of homeschooling. Join Colleen as she shares her family's "Not Back to School Day" traditions, how they're adapting amid a jam-packed schedule, and the heartfelt challenges of balancing multiple roles.
Key Takeaways:
- Homeschools adapt from year to year, and new traditions can be fun.
- The struggle of managing homeschooling alongside numerous activities and professional commitments is challenging for all -- you're not alone.
- It's important to be present and mindful of the mental load carried by homeschooling parents.
From meltdowns to mini victories, this episode is a candid reflection on the beautiful messiness of homeschooling life. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting out, you'll find comfort and camaraderie knowing that you're not alone in this journey.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- RLL #52: Overcoming Perfectionism and Finding Joy in Homeschooling
- 5 Ways to Enjoy Homeschooling Your Gifted Child
- Bring Joy Into Your Homeschool Day
- Supporting and Understanding Levels of Giftedness in Homeschooled Children with Deborah Ruf
- A Deep Dive into The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Embracing Interest-Led Homeschooling with Lydia Rosado
- Responding to Homeschool Critics
- Embracing Child-Focused Learning | A Guide for Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Supporting and Understanding Levels of Giftedness in Homeschooled Children with Deborah Ruf
13 september 2024 |
48 min
In today's episode, Colleen had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Dr. Deborah Ruf about homeschooling, giftedness, and the evolving landscape of education.
Key Takeaways:
- Evolving Homeschooling Landscape: With more resources available, being intentional in selecting activities and groups is crucial.
- Giftedness Beyond Scores: Giftedness is multifaceted, with variations beyond high IQ scores, requiring tailored support.
- Understanding Personality and Interests: Recognizing personality types and allowing children to explore their interests can significantly impact their educational journey.
- Parental Roles: Parents should support their children’s true selves and sometimes ‘get out of the way’ to let them pursue their passions effectively.
Ultimately, this episode reinforced the importance of appreciating and nurturing the unique traits and strengths of gifted children, creating an environment where they can thrive intellectually and emotionally. Recognizing and supporting these unique needs is integral to raising lifelong learners.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- RLL 12: What About Relaxed and Interest-Led Homeschooling for Gifted Kids? | A Listener Question
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Interest-Led Learning In The Early Years: Preschool and Beyond
- Spooky Unit Studies For October Interest-Led Learning
- Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
- What’s The Difference Between Interest-Led and Strength Based Learning?
- Why Unit Studies are Ideal for Interest-led Learning
- Interest-Led Homeschooling and Your Gifted Child
Connect with Dr. Ruf You can find Deborah Ruf at FiveLevelsOfGifted.com
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
A Deep Dive into The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
4 september 2024 |
35 min
Today’s episode dives deep into the strengths-based approach to homeschooling, offering valuable insights and practical tips for creating a child-focused learning environment.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to adapt curricula like math and history to better suit your child's preferences and learning style.
- Gain inspiration from Colleen's personal stories about her brother and daughter, emphasizing the power of focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses.
- Get a sneak peek into Colleen's recently released book The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners, filled with actionable content and conversational style.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Listen now and share your thoughts! And if you love the episode, please leave a review for Colleen's book on Amazon or ask your local library to stock it. Every bit of support helps!
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Interest-Led Learning In The Early Years: Preschool and Beyond
- Spooky Unit Studies For October Interest-Led Learning
- Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
- What’s The Difference Between Interest-Led and Strength Based Learning?
- Why Unit Studies are Ideal for Interest-led Learning
- Interest-Led Homeschooling and Your Gifted Child
- RLL 12: What About Relaxed and Interest-Led Homeschooling for Gifted Kids? | A Listener Question
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Embracing Interest-Led Homeschooling with Lydia Rosado
28 augusti 2024 |
56 min
Dive into this episode of the podcast with the inspiring Lydia Rosado!
We discuss the magic of interest-led homeschooling, the power of films in education, and the beauty of embracing each child’s unique journey. Lydia shares her wisdom on nurturing passions, cultivating independence, and trusting the homeschooling process. Plus, get insights on balancing kids' interests with foundational learning and discovering creative ways to make education come alive!
Key Takeaways:
- Using Films in Education: Lydia discusses how movies are not only entertaining but also educational. She provides tips on choosing appropriate films and using them as part of homeschooling.
- Cultivating Independence: Learn how Lydia nurtures her children's passions and strengths, making their educational journey rich and fulfilling.
- Family Learning Dynamics: Lydia details her relaxed, project-based approach, balancing individual interests within a homeschool setting with multiple children.
- Challenges and Rewards: Both Lydia and Colleen Kessler discuss the nuances and joys of homeschooling, emphasizing perseverance and tailored learning approaches.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Interest-Led Learning In The Early Years: Preschool and Beyond
- Spooky Unit Studies For October Interest-Led Learning
- Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
- What’s The Difference Between Interest-Led and Strength Based Learning?
- Why Unit Studies are Ideal for Interest-led Learning
- Interest-Led Homeschooling and Your Gifted Child
- RLL 12: What About Relaxed and Interest-Led Homeschooling for Gifted Kids? | A Listener Question
Connect with LydiaConnect with Lydia on Instagram
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Responding to Homeschool Critics
21 augusti 2024 |
32 min
In this week's podcast episode, we explore the concerns many new and seasoned homeschooling parents face, especially during the back-to-school season.
I'll share advice on how to address questions and criticisms about your homeschooling choices.
Key Takeaways:
- Ignore the common misconception that homeschooled children lack socialization and academic achievement, research supports the opposite.
- You know your children best and have their best interests at heart. Trust in your decision to homeschool.
- Feel confident in your choices and remember that you don't owe explanations to others.
- Understand that curiosity, concern, and ignorance are often behind questions about homeschooling. Respond with patience and reassurance.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person
- RLL #83: [Audioblog] Socialization and Your Gifted or Intense Child
- Socialization and Your Gifted or Intense Child
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
- Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith
- 100 Things to Never Say to the Parent of a Gifted Kid
- The Challenge Of Being Gifted in Schools Today
- Homeschooling A Gifted Only Child
- Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Building Strong Family Bonds | a Conversation with Andee Martineau
14 augusti 2024 |
42 min
In the latest episode of the podcast, Colleen shares a conversation with Andee Martineau, a mom of six, former nurse, and now an advocate for connection-centered parenting. In this episode, we dive into practical strategies and heartfelt stories that can transform your parenting journey, especially when navigating the complexities of neurodivergence at home.
Key Takeaways:
- Visual Prompts & Checklists: Visual tools can be game-changers for parents, especially when dealing with neurodivergence at home. Planning ahead can help manage stress and improve decision-making.
- Connection Over Correction: It’s crucial to build strong relationships with children to foster an environment where they can naturally develop their unique potential.
- Self-Awareness & Self-Regulation: Parenting can be overwhelming, but parents can practice self-awareness and self-regulation to model for their children. Stepping away to regain composure and maintaining a plan helps manage challenges with compassion and understanding.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Andee's Book: Connect Method Parenting
- The Connect Method Parenting Blog
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- The Power of Connecting with Your Kids in Homeschooling
- A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids
- RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
- RLL 10 Sarah MacKenzie: Building Connections Through Books
- Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
- The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
Connect with Andee Learn more on her website: https://connectmethodparenting.com/ Connect with Andee on Instagram, on Facebook, or TikTok
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Embracing Child-Focused Learning | A Guide for Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children
31 juli 2024 |
29 min
Raising independent, motivated learners starts with self-directed learning! In this week's episode of the podcast, we dive into the benefits of giving kids more autonomy in their education. We share practical tips for incorporating self-directed learning at different ages and stages, from interest-based exploration in elementary to career-focused projects in high school.
As homeschool parents, our job is to let go of control, trust the process, and be our kids' biggest cheerleaders. When we allow them to pursue their passions, the motivation and engagement follows.
Key Takeaways:
- Self-directed learning increases motivation, creativity, problem-solving skills, and confidence by allowing kids to pursue their passions.
- Practical ways to incorporate self-direction include interest-based learning in elementary years, project-based learning in middle school, and career exploration in high school.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- OUT NOW! – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- What is the Difference Between Interest-Led and Strengths-Based Learning
- Nurturing a Strengths-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling
- Strength-Based Learning for Differently-Wired Kids with Shawna Wingert
- Homeschooling Middle School Using Your Own Interest-Based Curriculum
- RLL #67: Ideas for Nurturing Our Kids’ Strengths
- Homeschooling High School: Transcripts, Mom-Guilt, And Finishing Strong
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Supporting Neurodivergent Kids in Homeschooling: A Conversation with Amy Bodkin
26 juli 2024 |
42 min
Enjoy this episode of the podcast – a great conversation with Amy Bodkin, an autistic former school psychologist currently dedicated to supporting homeschooling families raising neurodivergent children.
Amy shares her expertise in creating tailored, budget-friendly strategies to enhance learning experiences for children with special needs. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and personal anecdotes, backed by thorough research and a deep understanding of individual needs.
Key Takeaways:
Tailored Approaches Over One-Size-Fits-All: Both Colleen and Amy underline the importance of personalized curriculum choices to cater to each child’s unique interests and needs. Amy's data-driven and developmental approach ensures children are viewed and supported as whole individuals.
Silver Bullet Solutions vs. Research: Amy emphasizes the value of thorough research and experimenting with alternatives like vision therapy and tailored educational resources. The "right" solution might not be readily available, but finding it can make a world of difference.
Holistic Parenting: Amy's philosophy revolves around balance in daily life, whether it's diet, activity, or learning. She advocates for seeing children as individuals and recognizing the significance of their developmental stages in shaping their educational journey.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- Pre-Order – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Special Needs Kids Are People Too by Amy Bodkin
- Amy Bodkin Consulting
- Fixing My Gaze: A Scientist's Journey Into Seeing in Three Dimensions by Susan R. Barry
Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals
17 juli 2024 |
49 min
Check out the latest episode of the podcast! This episode dives into the idea of family routines and rituals and how they play a crucial role in building stronger family bonds and supporting our children's growth.
There is a difference between routines and rituals. This episode highlights how each plays a unique role in fostering a sense of identity, stability, and emotional security within the family. Family rituals and routines are not just mundane daily tasks; they are powerful tools to nurture deep emotional bonds, encourage inclusivity, and ensure open communication, empathy, and understanding among family members. Consistent routines are particularly beneficial for neurodivergent kids, providing the structure needed to manage anxiety and promote emotional regulation and well-being.
Key Takeaways:-
Structured Comfort: Routines provide security and predictability, improving overall health, mood, and learning environments, especially for homeschooling families.
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Emotional Bonding: Family rituals create lasting emotional ties and cherished memories, fostering a deep sense of belonging and love.
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Life Skills Development: Consistent routines aid in building essential life skills, resilience, and independence, preparing kids for future challenges and successes.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- Pre-Order – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
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Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
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How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
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Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
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A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids
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RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
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The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
Homeschooling Hack | Using Online Book Clubs for Literature with Mary Wilson
10 juli 2024 |
42 min
We are thrilled to bring you the latest episode of the podcast, where Mary Hanna Wilson shares all about using book clubs to teach literature.
This episode is packed with golden nuggets for parents who want to foster a deep love for reading and literature in their children while making learning an engaging, enjoyable experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Flexible Learning: Online formats allow your kids to learn on the go, participating in classes from virtually any location.
- Deep Dives: Learn how to focus on specific literary elements and themes, ensuring in-depth understanding.
- Interactive Experience: Get tips on creating a non-pressured, enjoyable learning atmosphere, both at home and in online classes.
Tune into this enlightening episode to transform your approach to teaching literature and instill a lifelong love of reading in your children.
Happy Learning!
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- Pre-Order – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Celebrate a Book with Mary Hanna Wilson
- Mary's Online Book Clubs
- Mary's Booklists
- Episode 82: Celebrate a Book with Mary Hanna Wilson
- Why I Still Read Aloud to My Tweens and Teens
- Helping Your Differently-Wired Kids Fall in Love with Reading
- The Power of Reading for Gifted Children: Advanced Readers and Social Emotional Learning
Connect with Mary Learn more on her website: https://www.maryhannawilson.com/Connect with Mary on Instagram , on Facebook , or TikTok
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
The Importance of Happiness in Homeschooling | A Guide for Parents
3 juli 2024 |
57 min
In today’s episode, we dive into the importance of happiness and how fostering joy and long-term contentment in children can shape their development for the better.
We explore positive psychology, resilience, and the PERMA model, highlighting how joy, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment are key to fostering long-term contentment. Colleen shares personal experiences and practical tips on creating joyful, supportive home environments, celebrating successes, and encouraging autonomy.
Key Takeaways:- Nurturing Resilience and Long-term Contentment: Discover how positive psychology and Seligman’s PERMA model can help cultivate joy and happiness in both parenting and homeschooling, promoting children’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
- Celebrating Small Pleasures and Long-term Happiness: Understand the distinction between temporary pleasures like ordering takeout and long-term, internally driven happiness. Learn how these concepts impact children’s well-being and cognitive advantages.
- Fostering Growth and Supportive Relationships: Explore the importance of building strong, meaningful connections, supporting children’s interests and autonomy in learning, and engaging in activities aligned with family values to nurture a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Don’t miss this episode filled with strategies to enhance your child’s social, emotional, and cognitive well-being through happiness.
Links and Resources from Today’s Episode
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Lexercise
- Pre-Order – The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Masterclass | Cultivating a Healthy Mindset
- The Social Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Neurodiverse Children
- Homeschooling Our Gifted Children: The Power Of Artful Questions
- Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Embracing Play for Teens | Growth and Resilience
- Benefits of Keeping it Playful with Teens
- Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment
- Books to Help Your Kids Learn Mindfulness at Home
- The Power of Connecting with Your Kids in Homeschooling
- Guide Your Kids on a Path to Self-Discovery
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Tackling Perfectionism | A Conversation with Lisa Van Gemert
19 juni 2024 |
51 min
Today we have a truly insightful episode featuring Lisa Van Gemert, an expert in gifted education and the mind behind Gifted Guru. Join us as we explore the intricacies of perfectionism in gifted children, how it intertwines with their cognitive abilities, and its impact on their mental and emotional health.
Lisa shares invaluable strategies for parents, including a unique "one to five" task evaluation approach that can help children better understand and navigate their perfectionistic tendencies. We'll also discuss the importance of connection and mindfulness, teaching kids empathy and critical thinking, and offering grace in the homeschooling journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Evaluating Perfectionism: Lisa introduced a practical "one to five" strategy for helping children—and parents—navigate the pressures of perfectionism by rating the importance of various tasks. This helps them discern between crucial and non-critical issues, thus reducing unnecessary stress.
- Emphasizing Self-Reflection: We discussed the importance of normalizing self-reflection for children, helping them understand and accept their unique traits. This practice not only fosters self-awareness but also nurtures a healthy, growth-oriented mindset.
- Connection Over Academics: Lisa's advice for homeschooling parents is invaluable—prioritize moments of connection and love over sheer academic achievements. Your dedication and sacrifice are more than enough for your children.
Tune in to hear more about how we can support our neurodivergent learners and help them thrive, both academically and emotionally.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Lisa Van Gemert's site: https://giftedguru.com
- Living Gifted: 52 Tips to Survive and Thrive in Giftedland by Lisa Van Gemert
- Managing Perfectionism | Strategies for Parents
- Perfectionism And Gifted Children: What You Need To Know
- RLL #55: Helping Your Child Manage Perfectionism
- Managing Perfectionism: 10 Tips for Helping Your Gifted Child
- Building Strong Writers at Home | Insights from Occupational Therapist Sarah Collins
- Learning Strategies for Reluctant Gifted Children
- Knowing If Your Child is Gifted
- The Social Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Neurodiverse Children
- Homeschooling Our Gifted Children: The Power Of Artful Questions
- Anxiety vs. Stress vs. Perfectionism: Helping Our Children Cope
- Homeschool Testing | Helping Your Perfectionist Do Hard Things
Connect with Lisa Van Gemert Learn more on her website: https://giftedguru.com Connect with Lisa on Instragram @TheGiftedGuru,on Facebook @GiftedGuru, or on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/lisavangemert
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Building Strong Family Teams | Tips for Connection and Collaboration
13 juni 2024 |
57 min
In today’s episode, Colleen dives into the art of building a family team. Discover the importance of setting boundaries, taking personal time, and forming deep, meaningful connections with your loved ones. Colleen shares her personal experiences and offers practical tips on how to balance family and personal time, foster open communication, and create an empathetic, supportive home environment.
Key Takeaways:
- Personal Time & Boundaries: Importance of balancing personal time and family time to model self-care for children. Flexible and adaptable coping strategies are crucial, especially during busy times.
- Shared Responsibilities: Creating a team dynamic through defined roles, shared activities, and collaborative decision-making helps in fostering mutual support and accountability within the family.
- Building Connections: Engaging in activities that build strong bonds—such as family meals, open conversations, and expressing love and affirmation—contributes to a compassionate and empathetic home environment.
Tune in to gain insights and actions you can take to strengthen your family bonds and support system. Let's create a loving, united family team together!
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today's Show- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team
- Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
- Masterclass | Building Family Connections
- A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids
- Rock Your Family Life and Raise Awesome Gifted Kids
- Family Night Game Guide
- Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
- Masterclass | Raising Resilient Families
- Self-Compassion for a Healthier Mindset | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Navigating Intensity and Giftedness | Insights from Christine Fonseca
29 maj 2024 |
46 min
In this week’s episode of the podcast, we’re talking with Christine Fonseca, licensed educational psychologist, critically acclaimed author, and nationally recognized speaker on topics related to educational psychology, mental health, giftedness, and using storytelling to heal past wounds.
Understanding the complex world of giftedness is crucial for providing the best support for your child. In this episode, we delve into key understandings that can make a significant difference in your homeschooling journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognize Intensity: Gifted kids often exhibit intense emotions and behaviors due to their high sensitivity and cognitive abilities. Understanding this can prevent mislabeling their intensity as behavioral issues.
- Identify Needs: Differentiating between gifted traits and actual behavioral problems is crucial. Providing the right accommodations can help them thrive without pathologizing their uniqueness.
- Embrace Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Teaching EQ can have a profound effect on a child's success. Use everyday moments to instill skills like empathy, adaptability, and social awareness.
- Navigate Social Dynamics: Gifted children may find it hard to fit in due to their exceptional intellect. Helping them value and appreciate different perspectives can bridge social gaps.
- Knowledge & Resources: Books and websites can be transformative. Utilize practical resources to better understand and support your gifted child.
- Parental Reflection: Understanding and managing your own emotional triggers can help you respond more effectively to your child. Trust that they will be fine, and lead with patience and empathy.
- Community and Support: Engaging with communities offers valuable insights and shared experiences. Connecting with other parents can provide additional support and strategies.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Christine Fonseca: https://www.christinefonseca.com
- New Edition! Emotional Intensity in Gifted Children
- The Caring Child: Raising Empathetic and Emotionally Intelligent Children
- RLL 24: Asynchrony, Intensity, and Motivation | A Listener Question
- Giftedness & Intensity
- Calm the Chaos with Dayna Abraham
- The Social Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Neurodiverse Children
- The Unique Challenges of Homeschooling Gifted Kids
- When Giftedness is Misdiagnosed as a Behavior Problem
- Knowledge is Power: Helping Our Gifted Children Cope
- Perfectionism And Gifted Children: What You Need To Know
- Homeschooling Our Gifted Children: The Power Of Artful Questions
- Anxiety vs. Stress vs. Perfectionism: Helping Our Children Cope
Connect with Christine FonsecaYou can find Christine on: Instagram @ChristineFonsecaAuthor, Facebook @AuthorChristineFonseca, or LinkedIn @Christine Fonseca Christine's group: The Intense Life Tribe on Facebook Christine’s website: https://www.christinefonseca.com
Connect with ColleenYou can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Homeschooling Success | The Role of Strong Family Connections
22 maj 2024 |
45 min
In today's episode of the podcast, we dive into the power of building strong family connections, especially in homeschooling families.
We'll chat practical tips like setting family goals, managing time with multiple calendars, and encouraging sibling collaboration. Then, I'll touch on how mindfulness, open communication, and family rituals can foster deep bonds and support your kids' emotional and academic growth.
Tune in to embrace family time and create unforgettable memories together!
Key Takeaways:- Encourage Collaboration and Communication: Foster emotional connections and model respectful communication and empathy during conflicts. Simple actions like admitting mistakes and apologizing can nurture trust and respect.
- Promote Independence and Responsibility: Assign age-appropriate responsibilities and allow children to make their own choices. This builds accountability and helps them learn from consequences.
- Prioritize Quality Family Time: Focus on quality over quantity by engaging in one-on-one time and screen-free family outings. This can be achieved through creative solutions like car ride conversations or including kids in errands.
We also discuss the resources available through The Learner's Lab community -- Join us if you haven't yet!
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today's Episode- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team
- The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
- Creating a Family Mission Statement
- RLL #76: Creating the Adventurous Family with Rachel Rainbolt
- Stick Figuring Through the Bible - NEED AMAZON LINK
- Host an Epic Family Movie Night
- Rock Your Family Life and Raise Awesome Gifted Kids
- Growing a Family of Character
- Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse Kids
- RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
- RLL 10 Sarah MacKenzie: Building Connections Through Books
- A Thriving Homeschool | Strategies for Setting Boundaries
- Sibling Unifier: Peanut Butter Play dough
- Resiliency Resources
- Everything You Need To Homeschool A Child With ADHD
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Sparkschooling | Engaging Children in Music, Art, and STEM
15 maj 2024 |
45 min
In this week's episode of the podcast, we're talking with Rachel Figg, a trailblazer in the homeschooling world and the creator of Spark Schooling. As homeschooling parents, we recognize some challenges come with teaching children at home. This conversation focuses on sparkschooling, a novel approach to learning designed to ignite curiosity and engage students more deeply by integrating art, music, physical education, and STEM into daily learning activities.
The heart of sparkschooling lies in its curiosity-driven approach, tailoring learning to align with a child’s natural interests. Rachel explains how Spark Schooling integrates non-traditional methods like using buckets and kitchen utensils to teach musical rhythms, or video classes for varied subjects to cater to diverse learning preferences and paces.
This method not only respects each child’s learning journey but also fosters a supportive environment where learning is associated with joy and discovery rather than pressure and memorization.
Key Takeaways:- Curiosity-Driven Learning: Rachel Figg emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity in children as a fundamental aspect of sparkschooling. This approach encourages students to pursue their own interests and questions, leading to deeper engagement and understanding.
- Integrating Creative and Analytical Learning: Both Rachel and Colleen discuss the importance of combining left and right brain activities—such as art and STEM—into homeschooling to develop both creative and analytical skills in children, enhancing overall learning and problem-solving abilities.
- Hands-On Experiences: The episode highlights the significance of hands-on learning experiences, like the real-life application of physics concepts in a homeschooling with horses class to understand inertia. This method helps cement knowledge through practical application.
- Resource Accessibility: Sparkschooling is likened to a Netflix-like library where children can choose from a variety of activities based on their interests, all available in a simple, self-paced format. This accessibility makes learning adaptable and tailored to each child's pace and interests.
- Higher-Level Thinking Skills: The discussion underlines the need to focus on developing higher-level thinking skills from an early age, moving beyond basic knowledge to analyzing, evaluating, and creating. This prepares children for complex problem-solving and independent thinking.
- Low-Pressure Learning Environment: The sparkschooling program is designed to create a low-pressure, non-judgmental learning environment that encourages exploration and reduces the fear of failure, enabling children to explore new subjects and discover their passions.
- Simple Integration of Diverse Subjects: Rachel suggests practical ways to integrate diverse subjects like music, art, physical education, and STEM into daily homeschool routines to ensure a holistic education that keeps children engaged and promotes well-rounded development.
- Encouraging Physical Education: Physical activities are highlighted as crucial for children's education, not just for physical health but also for teaching persistence, coordination, and critical thinking through physical challenges.
- Engaging and Fun Learning Activities: The episode emphasizes the importance of making learning fun and engaging through activities like using kitchen utensils as drumsticks to learn musical rhythm, which helps sustain children's interest and enthusiasm for learning.
- Following Children's Natural Curiosities: Both host and guest stress the need for parents to pay attention to and nurture their children's natural curiosities, as this will lead to more meaningful and self-motivated learning, making education a joy rather than a chore.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today's Show- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Spark Schooling HUB
- Join The Hands-on Homeschool Virtual Enrichment Program
- Free Gift: Sample Classes | Spark Schooling (The Hands-on Homeschool)
- RLL #94: The Importance of Music with Jessica Peresta
- Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment
- Awesome Art Additions
- Embracing Art and Its History for Kids With Sensory Issues
- How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
- Sneaking In Summer Learning
- Make a Paper Plate Maze STEM Challenge
- Real-Life Science Mysteries Book
Connect with Rachel Check out Rachel’s website at https://sparkschooling.com/You can find Rachel @TheHandsOnHomeschool onInstagram or Facebook with the handle @thehandsonhomeschool
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter @ColleenKessler, Facebook @RaisingLifelongLearners, Instagram @ColleenKessler How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz ==> https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
Embracing Play for Teens | Growth and Resilience
1 maj 2024 |
67 min
Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking | A Conversation with Puzzlemaker Eric Berlin
24 april 2024 |
36 min
In the latest episode, we dive into the fascinating world of puzzles and their role in fostering lifelong learning. Eric Berlin, a renowned puzzle maker and author, shares his experiences with puzzles in educational settings and their impact on child development.
Eric discusses the integration of puzzle-solving into educational curricula. He shares a time when his daughter, influenced by puzzle video games, designed video game levels herself, showcasing how such engagement can foster a practical understanding of complex concepts like coding and design.
Key Takeaways:- Foster Critical Thinking: Puzzles encourage critical thinking and creativity, essential skills in today’s rapidly changing world.
- Tech-Savvy Learning: Incorporating puzzle video games can promote visual thinking and problem-solving skills among children.
- Community Collaboration: Participating in community puzzle events can build teamwork and social skills.
Find Eric and his engaging puzzle books at puzzlesnacks.com and ericberlin.com. Connect with him on social platforms for more puzzle fun!
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or puzzle enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into making learning a playful and engaging journey. Tune in to discover more
Links and Resources from Episode 242:
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin
- Puzzlesnacks by Book by Eric Berlin
- Free Gift: Puzzlesnacks Sampler
- Ever So Logical | PuzzleNation.com Blog
- Creative Thinking Activities for Kids
- How to Encourage Innovative Thinking in Your Kids
- Raising Problem Solvers
- One Person Logic Games that Rock
- The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega
- Giving Your Child Life Skills | Metacognition
Connect with Eric To try out Eric’s puzzles click over to Puzzle Snacks: http://www.puzzlesnacks.comYou can find Eric @puzzlesnacks Instagram or Facebook with the handle @puzzlesnacks
RLL #241: Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons
17 april 2024 |
36 min
As the days grow longer and the flowers bloom, it's the perfect moment to refresh your homeschool approach and cater to the bright energy of the season. On this episode of the podcast, we dive into the art of embracing change and the beauty of flexible learning environments.
Colleen, an advocate for shaping education around a child’s needs and curiosity, guides you through the perks of adjusting your homeschool routine to sync with spring's lively vibe.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
- Flexibility is Your Superpower: Harness the adaptability that homeschooling offers. Shift learning times to enjoy the splendid spring weather, and don't shy away from eclectic approaches to fit your family's unique rhythm.
- Create Unforgettable Stories: Prioritize shared family experiences and connection. Whether it's "just because we can days" or diving into a "bucket list of mini adventures," these moments foster not just learning, but lifelong memories.
- Embrace Your Homeschool Journey: There’s no one-size-fits-all in education; tailor your teaching style and schedule to what resonates with your family—Colleen's insights can guide you on this personalized path.
From combating the infamous mid-year slump with spontaneous outings to leveraging Colleen's extensive experience in homeschooling, the episode is packed with gems that will revitalize your educational outlook.
Tune in for the full episode on changing things up in your homeschool routine, accessing exclusive resources, and joining a community that uplifts and inspires.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today's Episode:
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Masterclass | Building Family Connections - Raising Lifelong Learners
- Masterclass | Raising Resilient Families
- How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
- RLL #43: Getting Your Kids Outside with Justin Wren
- Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith
- Growing Gardens with Kids (includes free printable garden journal)
- Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool
- Navigating Summer Learning With Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
- 5 Things to Do on Your Next Nature Walk
- A Week of Epic Backyard Nature Science Fun | Summer Camp at Home
- Backyard Nature Activities for Kids
- Create the Best Homeschool for Your Family
- Adventuring Together: How to Create Connections and Make Lasting Memories with Your Kids: Eskridge, Greta - needs affiliate link
- 100 Backyard Activities That Are the Dirtiest, Coolest, Creepy-Crawliest Ever by Colleen Kessler M.Ed.
- Hands-On Ecology Book by Colleen Kessler M.Ed.
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #240: Insights on Homeschooling and Entrepreneurship | A Conversation with Samantha Shank
10 april 2024 |
44 min
This week, we welcome the inspirational Samantha Shank to the show. From blogging as a teen to becoming a digital nomad, Samantha's journey is a testament to the power of homeschooling and following one's passions.
Here's what this can't-miss episode holds in store for you:
- Discover Samantha's transition from stifled student to a flourishing creative mind, and how homeschooling played a pivotal role in her personal growth and professional success.
- Gain insights into the ways Samantha's childhood interests in subjects ranging from Hebrew to history blossomed into invaluable skills for her travels and career.
- Embrace the beauty of imperfection to help combat perfectionism in learners of all ages.
- Explore the virtues of adaptability and resilience as we dive deep into the importance of these skills in our constantly evolving world.
In this enlightening conversation, we offer practical strategies to help you guide your child through the lifelong learning journey with curiosity, courage, and joy.
Remember, teaching kids about resilience, the normalization of failure, and the power of the "yet" mindset can make a world of difference. This episode is a gentle reminder of how embracing the learning process, including its ups and downs, can pave the way to a fulfilling life.
Don't let your child miss out on the opportunity to thrive in an ever-changing environment. Tune in to this episode and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in life, not just in the classroom.
Links and Resources from Today's Show
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Masterclass | Raising Resilient Families
- What Does A Gifted Homeschool Graduate Really Think About Homeschooling?
- The Need for Flexibility When Teaching Your Gifted Kids
- Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool
- RLL #103: Entrepreneurial Mindset with Brian Weisfeld
- Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence
- 10 Things I Love About Homeschooling: A Gifted Kid’s Perspective
- Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Homeschooling High School Isn't Something to Fear
- RLL 34 Ginny Kochis: Cultivating Critical Thinkers
- The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega
- Idiom Matching Game - Raising Lifelong Learners
Connect with Samantha Learn more at: https://learnincolor.com Find Samantha on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest with the handle @learnincolor
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #239: Fostering Teamwork | The Power of Collaborative Learning in Homeschooling
3 april 2024 |
47 min
In this week's episode, Colleen dives into the world of collaborative learning and how it can transform your homeschooling experience. Listen to gain insight into creating a dynamic, engaged, and cooperative learning environment right in your home.
Key Takeaways:
- Collaboration Empowers: Discover ways to implement co-ops, community projects, and family initiatives that develop skills like cooperation, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
- Shared Learning, Shared Growth: Learn how rotating leadership roles and involving the entire family can create rich educational experiences that go beyond the traditional curriculum.
- Unleashing Potential: Understand the high value of tailoring education to your child's unique needs, fostering a love for learning that prepares them for a complex, interconnected future.
For any homeschooler looking to elevate their child's learning journey and unlock the full potential of their educational experience, tune in to this inspiring episode.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Finding Your Community as a Neurodivergent Family
- Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
- Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person
- Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling
- Building Social-Emotional Skills While Helping Others
- Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse Kids
- Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team
- Free Solar Eclipse STEM Printable for Your Homeschool
- RLL 22: Finding a Homeschool Co-op and Creating Killer Classes | A Listener Question
- Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
- Science Buddies Electronics Kit for Arduino
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #238: Building Strong Writers at Home | Insights from Occupational Therapist Sarah Collins
27 mars 2024 |
45 min
In the latest episode of the podcast, we chat about a skill that often leaves even the most adept homeschooling parents in search of guidance: handwriting.
Sarah Collins, our favorite occupational therapist with a homeschooling background and a love for nurturing writing skills in children, unpacks the multifaceted journey of handwriting, from the initial scribbles to fluent cursive.
Key Takeaways From This Episode Include:
- Encouraging fine motor skills in everyday play.
- Understanding and leveraging technology to support writing.
- Instilling self-advocacy in your learners.
- The vital role of grip strength and motor control in writing.
- Strategies for boosting endurance without causing burnout.
✍️ Actionable Insights for Your Homeschooling Adventure
The episode is more than a mere dialogue.
It’s a treasure trove of actionable tips and heartwarming humor (don’t miss the part about being “raised by wolves”!).
📚 Resource Roundup
We’ve heard your calls for resources, and Sarah Collins doesn’t disappoint.
From fine motor screeners to grip-strengthening exercises, we provide a rich landscape of free resources and proven curriculums tailored to your individual learner’s needs.
👂 Listen and Learn
Ready to demystify handwriting hurdles?
Tune in to this inspiring session with Sarah Collins.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show:
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Homeschool OT with Sarah Collins
- The OT is IN Podcast
- Join the OT is IN Membership!
- Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- Coping with Stress | Supporting Kids and Teens
- Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling
- Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs
- The OT is IN - Understanding the Role of Vision in Your Child's Learning Journey
- The OT is IN - Visual Pathways to Learning: Harnessing Nature and Vision in Homeschooling
- The OT is IN - Understanding the Power of Form Drawing: A Parent's Guide to Waldorf Education
- Handwriting Motor Skill Assessment
Connect with Sarah Collins Website: Homeschool OT You can also find Sarah on Instagram @HomeschoolOT
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL#237: A Thriving Homeschool | Strategies for Setting Boundaries
20 mars 2024 |
45 min
In This Episode:
As homeschoolers and parents, we often find ourselves juggling the demands of educating our children, managing our professional lives, and maintaining personal well-being. It's a balancing act that calls for solid boundaries. In the latest RLL episode, Colleen dives into the art of setting and adapting these vital limits.
Take a listen to insights stemming from her own recent hiatus and the deeper exploration of boundaries in homeschooling environments:
Key takeaways from this episode include:
- Setting Boundaries: Learn the significance of establishing boundaries to maintain a healthy balance between homeschooling, work, and family life.
- Managing Time: Get inspired by Colleen's personal journey towards better time management and organization, which is especially crucial for parents with neurodivergent children.
- Modeling Healthy Behavior: Discover the importance of teaching our children to set their own boundaries and prioritize, a skill essential for lifelong success.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today's Show:
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Finding Homeschool Balance
- Masterclass | Prioritizing Self-Care
- Dear Mom With Quirky Kids: You Cannot Do it All
- Self-Compassion for a Healthier Mindset | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Finding Energy to Balance it All
- Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling
- My Neurodivergent Kiddo Needs So Much Help…
- Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs
- Boundaries Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No To Take Control of Your Life - NEEDS AFFILIATE LINK
- Masterclass | Building Family Connections
- Finding Peace in a Life Filled with Intensity
- Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids
Connect with ColleenWebsite: Raising Lifelong LearnersYou can also find Colleen on Instagram or on Facebook
How does your child learn best?
Take the Quiz - https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
RLL #236: Homeschool Rising | A Conversation with Christy Faith
13 mars 2024 |
53 min
In this episode:
With her new book Homeschool Rising, Christy is here to deconstruct the myths surrounding the conventional educational system and to advocate for a tailored, flexible approach to teaching our kids at home. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a veteran, Christy's story—from her professional background working with affluent families in Los Angeles to her decision to homeschool her own children, including twins, prior to the global pandemic—will resonate with you.
From her classical education inclination to embracing the philosophies of Charlotte Mason and unschooling, Christy's journey is a testament to finding what truly works for your family. We'll dive into her unique ideas, explore why big box curricula may not be the one-size-fits-all solution, and discuss the irony of the socialization debate.
For any parent grappling with the idea that only trained teachers can effectively educate our kids, or struggling to advocate for a child with special needs, this episode offers deep insights and compassionate encouragement. So, let's dispel the misconceptions, embrace the unique needs of each child, and discover together how to be confident in raising lifelong learners. Stay tuned for a fascinating conversation with Christy Faith.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
- Parents Are Natural Educators: Data and experience support the idea that parents, regardless of professional training, are highly suited to homeschool due to their instinctive understanding of their children's needs.
- Flexible Approach is Key: Integrating various homeschool styles—classical education, Charlotte Mason, interest-led, and unschooling—can create a custom-fit curriculum that respects the individuality and pace of each learner.
- Child Advocacy and Customization: Homeschooling offers unparalleled opportunities for child advocacy, allowing education to be tailored precisely to each child's developmental and learning style, which is often unachievable in traditional school settings.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today's Show
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners
- New Release! Homeschool Rising: Shattering Myths, Finding Courage, and Opting Out of the School System by Christy Faith
- The Christy Faith Show Podcast
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Christy Faith - Homeschool and Educational Expert
- Homeschooling Middle School Using Your Own Interest-Based Curriculum
- Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling
- Building Our Own Curriculum – Why it’s Easier Than Buying Boxed
- Homeschool Curriculum Choices
- Create the Best Homeschool for Your Family
- Taking An Eclectic Approach To Homeschooling Your Gifted Child
- Homeschooling and Public Schooling | Differentiating for Your Own Kids
- RLL #80: Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School? with Blake Boles
- RLL #97: (Facebook Live) Empowering Kids Through Homeschool Buy-In
Connect with ChristyWebsite: https://christy-faith.com/You can also find Christy on Instagram or on Facebook
Connect with ColleenWebsite: Raising Lifelong LearnersYou can also find Colleen on Instagram or on Facebook
How does your child learn best?
Take the Quiz - https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
RLL #235: Cultivating Curiosity for a Thriving Homeschool
6 mars 2024 |
41 min
In This Episode:
We discuss the importance of foundational skills while still leaving room for our kids to pursue their passions. We'll talk about balancing the digital with the tangible and how technology can be a powerful tool that complements our children's learning styles.
Are you worried about too much screen time? Well, you're not alone. Colleen shares her own struggle with her son's screen habits and how choosing the right tools—like a mini Sphero or coding kits—can transform screen time into an educational experience that prepares them for the future.
We'll also delve into the versatility of homeschooling curriculums and how to tailor learning to fit your child. Colleen will take you through her approach to organizing her family's physical space to encourage curiosity and hands-on exploration, while also acknowledging the beautiful mess that homeschooling can sometimes be.
Whether you're reading with your kids, picking out the right educational app, or seeking that elusive balance between clutter and order, we've got you covered.
And for those of you feeling the weight of taking on the homeschooling journey, remember, you are capable, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Plus, stay tuned for details on how to preorder my new book, "The Homeschool Advantage," where I dive even deeper into these topics and offer strategies for fostering that love of learning.
So grab your notes, get cozy, this is Raising Lifelong Learners, and we're about to create a learning-rich oasis right in your own home.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- A tailored learning experience is pivotal. Incorporating foundational skills with the freedom to explore personal interests helps in raising engaged and self-directed learners.
- Technology, when used mindfully, can enhance learning. It’s about empowering kids to create with tech, not just consume it.
- The environment matters. A home that invites curiosity and discovery paves the way for children to imbibe a genuine love for learning.
💫 Sponsors for this episode: CTC Math and Night Zookeeper 💫
Links and Resources from Today's Episode
- Pre-Order - The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Unit Studies - Raising Lifelong Learners
- Books - Raising Lifelong Learners
- Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment
- Cultivating a Learning-Rich Environment
- The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega
- 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids
- Nurturing a Strength-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling
- Making Homeschool Fun for Early Learners
- Benefits of Keeping It Playful With Teens
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
- Every Book List You Will Ever Need For Your Homeschool!
Connect with Colleen
⭐️ Instagram ⭐️ Facebook ⭐️ Twitter ⭐️
How does your child learn best?
Take the Quiz And Find Out Now
https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/quiz/
RLL #234: Thriving Together | Creating Supportive Environments in Homeschooling
28 februari 2024 |
61 min
NOTE: This episode as been re-edited due to one of the guest's sound issues. In the previously uploaded episode it seemed like the show cut out, but it was actually a very quiet mic. We've re-engineered it because the content is valuable, but know that in bringing the sound up for the one guest, it caused another's voice to be very loud in a few cases. We are SO sorry for the sound difficulty and will make sure to check guests' audio setups better in the future before recording.
In This Episode:
We're joined by two amazing guests, Christy Faith and Sarah Collins, to engage in an insightful discussion about the challenges and joys of homeschooling, particularly as it pertains to finding and building community.
Both Christy and Sarah bring a wealth of experience to the conversation as they tackle the often tricky balancing act that working moms face in establishing a solid support system within homeschool co-ops. They underscore the value of intergenerational interactions and fostering connections that go beyond traditional age brackets.
Throughout the episode, we delve into the necessity of adaptability and the pursuit of relationships over the elusive ideal of perfection. In a world that’s more connected yet increasingly isolating, we discuss the importance of guiding our children through ambiguous social situations and nurturing real, meaningful connections.
Our discussion also explores the shifting landscape of homeschooling communities, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, and how our community needs evolve alongside our children's growth. We emphasize the need to embrace community support, and not just for our children – we talk about the value of finding like-minded individuals and the need for parents to cultivate their own friendships and networks.
Together, we journey through the complexities of modern relationships and how these affect our kids and ourselves. At the end of this heartfelt and honest conversation, we realize that the shared experiences extend beyond our microcosms and plan to cross-promote this enriching dialogue across all of our platforms.
So grab a cup of something cozy, and let's dive into a discussion full of empathy, practical advice, and heartfelt insights into the world of homeschooling communities.
This is Raising Lifelong Learners, episode 234. Let's get started.
Key Takeaways:
- The Power of Intergenerational Connections: Uncover the irreplaceable value of forming bonds beyond traditional age groups, fostering a community that enriches our children's learning experiences.
- The Art of Adaptability: Learn about balancing work, homeschooling, and parenting through a lens of flexibility, emphasizing the vitality of prioritizing heartfelt relationships over the elusive ideal of perfection.
- The Evolution of Community and Relationships: Explore the challenges and opportunities of raising children in a highly connected yet isolating modern landscape, and the essential role of guiding them in forming authentic, enduring connections.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today's Episode:
- The OT is In! Podcast with Sarah Collins
- The Christy Faith Show
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Homeschool Advantage by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Homeschool Rising Book by Christy Faith
- Finding Homeschool Community (for our children and ourselves)
- Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
- Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person
- Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse Kids
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
Connect with Sarah Collins Website: https://www.homeschoolOT.com You can also find Sarah on Instagram @HomeschoolOT
Connect with Christy Faith Website: https://christy-faith.com/ You can also find Christy on Instagram @Christy Faith Homeschool or on Facebook @Christy-Faith Homeschool
Connect with Colleen Twitter @Colleen Kessler
Facebook @Raising Lifelong Learners
Instagram @Colleen Kessler
How does your child learn best?
RLL #233: Self-Compassion for a Healthier Mindset | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
22 februari 2024 |
52 min
In this episode:
This week's episode continues last week's conversation with Michelle Brownell. Join us as we dive deeper into the emotional landscape of parenting and homeschooling.
Michelle shares her personal journey of connecting with her children through the highs and lows, her strategies for cultivating a nurturing environment, and the power of self-compassion in the process.
Three Key Takeaways:
- The Eight C's of Connection: Michelle introduces the 'Eight C's' as a robust framework for staying grounded and compassionate, especially vital for parents navigating intense emotional landscapes with high-needs children.
- Self-Care as Crucial Care: Learn why prioritizing your emotional well-being isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential—for both you and your children. From breathing techniques to the magical moments of everyday touch, we explore practical methods to foster resilience.
- Play Isn't Just for Kids: Rediscover the joys of play as an adult. It's not only stress-relieving, but it also fortifies the bonds with our children, and Michelle's family traditions offer ample inspiration.
Tune in to this incredible episode filled with both vulnerability and humor, touching on everything from dealing with teenage appetites to the power of six-seven-eight breathing.
Whether you're a parent, an educator, or simply on a journey of lifelong learning, there are invaluable nuggets of wisdom.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today’s Show:- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Homeschool Essentials Community with Michelle Brownell
- Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Self Compassion - The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself - Dr. Kristin Neff
- Masterclass | Building Family Connections
- Masterclass | Prioritizing Self-Care
- RLL #70: More Than Enough with Kara Anderson
- Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids
- The Family and the Intense Child
- Dear Tired Mom of Gifted Kids
- Dear Mom With Quirky Kids: You Cannot Do it All
- Moms, You Are Doing A Great Job
- Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs
- RLL #69: [Audioblog] Seven Tools for Peaceful Parenting that You Can Use Today
- Benefits of Keeping It Playful With Teens
- The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
- Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team
Connect with Michelle Brownell Connect with Michelle on Instagram and Facebook Michelle’s website: https://homeschoolessentials.net/ Free gift: https://homeschoolessentials.net/wow/ Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #232: Homeschooling with Clarity, Confidence, and Calm | A Conversation with Michelle Brownell
14 februari 2024 |
54 min
In this episode:
Join as special guest Michelle Brownell, a veteran homeschooling parent and advocate for emotionally secure learning environments chats with us about the challenges of homeschooling twice-exceptional children and the universal lessons on setting healthy boundaries for family wellbeing.
Check out these takeaways:
- Understand and exercise your right to say no to protect your family’s emotional well-being and maintain a tranquil household.
- Create a learning partnership with your children that respects their stress thresholds and leverages their innate interests.
- Remember that sometimes less is more - slowing down can lead to deeper learning and stronger family bonds.
Join us on a journey of discovery, compassion, and growth on your path as a homeschool parent. Whether you're new to homeschooling or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone in this rich conversation.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today's Show:
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Homeschool Strengths & Struggles Conference Starting February 15th with Michelle Brownell
- Homeschool Essentials Community with Michelle Brownell
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Parenting Gifted Kids with Gail Post Ph.D.
- Parenting in the Moment with Your Child
- Parenting and Teaching a Twice Exceptional Child
- Parenting Gifted and Intense Children
- RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
- Finding Homeschool Balance
- Coping with Stress | Supporting Kids and Teens
Connect with Michelle Brownell Connect with Michelle on Instagram and Facebook Michelle’s website: https://homeschoolessentials.net/ Free gift: https://homeschoolessentials.net/wow/
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #231: Benefits of Keeping It Playful with Teens
7 februari 2024 |
57 min
In this episode:
Colleen delves into why play isn't just for little ones. Join us as we debunk myths and highlight play's pivotal role in the growth and development of adolescents.
Parents -or anyone invested in the wellbeing of teens – this one's for you. Tune in for insights into how shared moments of joy can forge stronger relationships and promote resilience.
Here are some takeaways to pique your interest:
- Skill Building: Play isn't just fun and games; it's key for developing critical skills. It enhances problem-solving abilities, fosters creativity, and improves emotional regulation, setting up our teens for success in all walks of life.
- Emotional Wellbeing: Through activities like role playing and theater, teens learn to navigate complex emotions and build resilience. Play is therapeutic – it's a stress-buster and a source of endorphin release, contributing to happier, healthier adolescents.
- Stronger Bonds: Play is a gateway to open, judgment-free communication. By engaging in play that resonates with teens, we demonstrate respect for their evolving personalities, support their growth, and strengthen our connections with them.
Whether through board games, theater, sports, or role-playing games, play is essential in raising well-rounded, lifelong learners. Discover more practical tips, compelling stories, and strategies by listening to the full episode, and don't forget to share your own experiences of connecting through play!
Listen, learn, and let's raise the bar together for teens' development!
Links and Resources from Today’s Show:- SPONSOR|CTC Math
- SPONSOR|Night Zookeeper
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Great Games for Teens and Their Families
- The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
- Why I Still Read Aloud To My Tweens and Teens
- RLL 04 Amy Milcic: Keeping Things Fun While On-the-Go - Raising Lifelong Learners
- A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness: Ideas and Encouragement For Connecting With Our Kids
- Raising Creative Kids: A Collection of Simple Creativity Prompts for Children
- Les Miserables Movie Study
- The Social Benefits of Online Gaming
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #230: Delight-Directed Learner Turned Published Author | A Conversation with Millie Florence
1 februari 2024 |
44 min
In the latest episode, Colleen sits down with the talented Millie Florence, whose literary works are captivating readers of all ages. Prepare to be swept into a world of persistent dreams, sibling dynamics, and the sheer courage of pursuing one's passion – all in the backdrop of historical and high fantasy.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
- The unique process Millie underwent to find a publisher that cherishes the quirky and indefinable genre of her books.
- The varied paths to getting published and the importance of steadfastness and strategy.
- The role that familial support plays in fostering creativity and confidence in young authors.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to be your child's biggest cheerleader in their creative endeavors.
- Explore strategies for marketing at events and online to reach a wider audience.
- Understand the significance of self-education, curiosity, and tailored learning environments in raising lifelong learners.
Don’t miss out on this enriching discussion – perfect for aspiring writers, parents, and anyone with a love for literature and learning.
Links and Resources from Today’s Show
- SPONSOR | CTC Math
- SPONSOR | Night ZooKeeper
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Find out more about Millie Florence at MillieFlorence.com
- Millie’s latest book The Balter of Ashton Harper
- Millie’s first book Honey Butter
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Create a Custom Homeschool
- The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fabrega
- Interest-Led Learning In The Early Years: Preschool and Beyond
- Homeschooling Our Gifted Children: The Power Of Artful Questions
- Why Unit Studies are Ideal for Interest-led Learning
- Homeschooling Middle School Using Your Own Interest-Based Curriculum
- Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
- RLL #107: Learning as an Unschooling Family with Robyn Robertson
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- RLL #68: Self-Directed Education with Peter Gray, PhD
Connect with Millie You can find Millie on Intagram, Facebook, and YouTubeMillie’s website: MillieFlorence.comNewsletter Sign Up and Free Gift: millieflorence.com/free
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, InstagramHow does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #229: Unleashing Childhood Creativity in the Homeschool Environment
24 januari 2024 |
54 min
In today's episode, we talk about managing expectations and fostering an environment where your children's uniqueness can thrive. There are incredible benefits to prioritizing and nurturing your child's creative spirit—benefits that extend far beyond the canvas. They have an impact on cognitive, emotional, and social development. Get ready to explore how open-ended play and critical thinking are key to raising problem solvers and innovative thinkers.
Fostering artistic talents in various forms can enhance your child's problem-solving skills and confidence to tackle life's hurdles. Whether it's through journaling, imaginative play, or academic endeavors, creativity is a window to self-expression, emotional processing, and personal growth. So, let's get comfortable with creative messes and remember to trust in our children's natural drive to explore and innovate.
You don't want to miss today's conversation. So settle in, grab your watercolor pencils, and start sketching out your thoughts as we discuss how to weave creativity into the tapestry of your daily learning adventures.
➡️ Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper ⬅️
Links and Resources from Today’s Show
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Different Faces of Giftedness: Understanding Your Child
- Raising Creative Kids: A Collection of Simple Creativity Prompts for Children
- Real-Life Science Mysteries Book
- Falling Unexpectedly in Love With Homeschooling My Gifted Child
- The Best Advice I Can Give You: Become A Student Of Your Child
- Inspiring Creativity in Kids
- Sparking Creativity with Dragons and Netflix
- Hands-On Art History–Discovery through Creativity
- Learning with Spielgaben | Play-Based Problem-Solving
- Inspire Creativity with LEGO and Netflix
- Creativity Means Dreaming Big
- Raising Problem Solvers
- Creative Thinking Activities for Kids
- How to Encourage Innovative Thinking in Your Kids
- Q-Tip Snowflake STEM
- Snowflake STEM Bundle
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #228: The Learning Game | A Conversation with Ana Lorena Fábrega
17 januari 2024 |
42 min
Today we are talking with Ana Lorena Fábrega about interest-led, project based learning. Ana is an author, edupreneur, and Chief Evangelist at Synthesis. Growing up, she attended ten schools in seven different countries. She then earned her BS in Childhood Education and Special Education from New York University and taught elementary school in New York, Boston, and Panama.
Today, Ana Lorena writes online to over 200,000 readers about the promise of alternative education. If you need some encouragement to continue, or even start taking a more interest-based focus in your homeschool, then pop in your earbuds and listen in!
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Night Zookeeper
Links and Resources from Today’s Show- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- The Learning Game by Ana Lorena Fábrega
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- The Power Of Inquiry Based Learning For Gifted Children
- Interest Led Homeschooling: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
- Create a Multimodal Learning Environment
- Nurturing a Strength-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling
- Project Based Learning And Your Gifted Child: A Guide For Parents
- RLL #96: Finding Learning Opportunities with Dennis DeNoia
- RLL #68: Self-Directed Education with Peter Gray, PhD
- RLL #64: What to Do When School Doesn’t Work
- Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
- Homeschooling High School With Interest-Led Learning
- Synthesis Review For Gifted Children: Everything You Need To Know
Connect with Ana You can find Ana on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube Learn more about The Learning Game at https://afabrega.com/
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #227: Coping with Stress | Supporting Kids and Teens
10 januari 2024 |
18 min
In today's episode, Colleen tackles the important topic of managing worry in your homeschool. She shares the nature of stress, its impact on children and teens, and how it manifests in their behaviors. From emotional outbursts to academic challenges, she covers the signs of stress that parents should watch for.
She also shares practical strategies for parents, such as establishing routines, encouraging reengagement, promoting healthy habits, and practicing deep breathing. By fostering a positive and resilient environment, we can empower our kids to tackle challenges and develop lifelong learning skills.
Join us as we navigate the intricacies of homeschooling and discover effective ways to support our children through stressful times.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Original Article on Homeschooling Today Magazine
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Masterclass | Helping Your Child Manage Worry
- If He’s Really So Smart… Why Gifted Kids Struggle and What to Do About It
- Anxiety vs. Stress vs. Perfectionism: Helping Our Children Cope
- Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids
- The Power of Connecting with Your Kids in Homeschooling
- Taming the Worry Dragon at GHC
- Books to Help Kids Who Worry
- Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
- When the World Overwhelms Your Anxious Child | How You Can Help
- How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, InstagramHow does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #226: Gifted and Distractible with Julie Skolnick
3 januari 2024 |
41 min
In today’s episode, Colleen has the privilege to talk with Julie Skolnick about raising and providing the best environment for gifted and 2e children.
Julie F. Rosenbaum Skolnick, M.A., J.D., Founder of With Understanding Comes Calm, LLC, passionately guides parents of gifted and distractible children, mentors 2e adults, trains educators and advises professionals on how to bring out the best and raise self-confidence in their 2e students and clients. A prolific writer and beloved speaker, Julie hosts "The Haystack 2e Adult Membership Group" which welcomes all ‘2e adult needles,’ hosts Let’s Talk 2e! Parent Empowerment Groups, produces virtual conferences, and publishes “Gifted & Distractible,” a free weekly newsletter.
Her book, Gifted and Distractible: Understanding, Supporting, and Advocating for Your Twice Exceptional Child, was released in October 2023. Located in Maryland, USA, Julie's clients, and audience hale from all four corners of the globe.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s ShowRaising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
Julie's website: With Understanding Comes Calm
Gifted anGifted and Distractible: Understanding, Supporting, and Advocating for Your Twice Exceptional Child by Julie Skolnick
Parent Empowerment Group - With Understanding Comes Calm
The 2e Toolbox for Parents - With Understanding Comes Calm
Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
Guide Your Kids on the Path to Self-Discovery
Nurturing Authenticity | Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Discovering Their True Selves
Twice Exceptional Children And Homeschooling: What It’s Really Like - Raising Lifelong Learners
Parenting and Teaching a Twice Exceptional Child
Building Understanding and Trust with Twice Exceptional Loved Ones
Homeschooling Twice Exceptional Kids
Nurturing a Strength-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling
Emotional Regulation Free Gift from Julie Skolnick
The Different Faces of Giftedness: Understanding Your Child
Connect with Julie Julie’s website: https://www.WithUnderstandingComesCalm.com You can find Julie on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #225: Cultivating Commitment and Follow Through
27 december 2023 |
37 min
RLL #224: How a Return to Outside Play Will Help Our Kids Thrive with Ginny Yurich
20 december 2023 |
52 min
Today we are delighted to have Ginny Yurich share with us how spending time outside will help our kids thrive. Ginny is a Michigan homeschooling mother of five and the founder of 1000 Hours Outside, a global movement, media company and lifestyle brand meant to bring back balance between virtual life and real life. She is a thought-leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children, and one of her top priorities is to inspire parents to invest in spending time in God’s creation with their children. Her 1000 Hours Outside Challenge spans the globe and many people from all walks of life look to her for inspiration as well as practical tips on how to put down the screens and get outside.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show-
Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- 1000 Hours Outside - Prioritize Nature, Reclaim Childhood and Experience A Fuller Life by Ginny Yurich
- Until The Streetlights Come On by Ginny Yurich
- 1000 Hours Outside Activity Book by Ginny Yurich
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- 100 Backyard Activities That Are the Dirtiest, Coolest, Creepy-Crawliest Ever! by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Hands-On Ecology: Authentic Learning Experiences That Engage Students in STEM by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Free to Learn by Peter Gray
- Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children by Angela J. Hanscom
- Ready or Not: Preparing Our Kids to Thrive in an Uncertain and Rapidly Changing World by Madeline Levine, PhD
- Moms, You Are Doing A Great Job
- RLL #68: Self-Directed Education with Peter Gray, PhD
- Surviving Different Weather Conditions | Think Outside Boxes
- Surviving the Elements | Think Outside Boxes
- RLL #43: Getting Your Kids Outside with Justin Wren
- 5 Great Outdoor Activities for Kids
- Fabulous Outdoor Play Spaces
Connect with Ginny You can find Ginny here on Instagram For her blog, podcast, and books check out 1000 Hours Outside
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #223: Nurturing a Strengths-Based Approach to Learning in Homeschooling
13 december 2023 |
30 min
A strengths-based approach to learning is exactly what our asynchronous kids need. We may be tempted to focus on remediation in areas where they are “behind,” but remember there is no behind; our kids learn every day.
It is so important to teach our children to use their strengths to help them overcome their weaknesses instead of allowing them to feel behind, always trying to catch up. In today’s episode, Colleen talks specifically about why we should implement a strengths-based approach with our kids, and let go of the traditional, deficit-based model.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Links and Resources from Today’s Show Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners LabMasterclass | Raising Resilient Families
Bundle | Smart Boy Characters Movie Studies - Raising Lifelong Learners
Bundle | Smart Girl Characters Movie Studies - Raising Lifelong Learners
Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
What’s The Difference Between Interest-Led and Strength Based Learning?
RLL #67: Ideas for Nurturing Our Kids’ Strengths
RLL #66: Strength-Based Learning for Differently-Wired Kids with Shawna Wingert
RLL 17 Shawna Wingert: Building on Your Child’s Strengths
Strength Finder Worksheet (free download)
The Powerful Relationship Between Confidence And Learning In Our Homeschools
RLL 30 Andrew Peterson: Being Students of Our Children
RLL #40: Self-Directed Homeschooling High School with Trevor Kessler
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #222: Building Social-Emotional Skills While Helping Others
29 november 2023 |
34 min
Building social-emotional skills, nurturing generosity, and increasing confidence in our kids is important all year long, but can be great to focus on during the holiday season. In this episode of Raising Lifelong Learners, host Colleen Kessler discusses teaching kids to be empathetic and to help others, and emphasizes the benefits of nurturing empathy in children, especially those who are neurodivergent. Listen to learn practical tips for fostering a sense of service in kids, along with understanding the emotional and psychological benefits of doing so.
The episode also explores age-appropriate ways for children to get involved in serving their communities and encourages parents to prioritize safety and trust when seeking volunteering opportunities for their kids. The episode is a heartfelt reminder of the impact of spreading kindness and its role in raising emotionally intelligent and compassionate adults.
Our sponsor for today’s episode is CTC Math
Additional Links and Resources
- Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners Lab
- Masterclass | Cultivating a Healthy Mindset
- Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed.
- Teaching Kids to Help Others
- Random Acts of Kindness: An Advent Tradition
- The Ultimate Guide to Random Acts of Kindness
- RLL #93: 7 Tips and Strategies for Boosting Emotional Resilience in Your Kids
- Random Acts of Kindness for Kids
- Raising Kind Kids: Acts of Kindness for Kids
- Books to Inspire Kindness and Thankfulness
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #221: Managing the Holidays with Sensory Kids with Sarah Collins
22 november 2023 |
47 min
There are so many changes this time of year that affect our intense kiddos. Our routines are off, there are new or uncomfortable places to visit, we’re managing family members who do not understand our kids, plus all the excitement and anticipation. Sarah Collins joins Colleen again, this time to talk about ways to meet the sensory needs of our kids and anticipate some of the challenges they may face. Let’s jump in and ready ourselves for the holiday season!
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Additional Links and Resources Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners LabRaising Lifelong Learners Facebook GroupMasterclass | Building Family Connections - Raising Lifelong LearnersRaising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah CollinsStrengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah CollinsSelf-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory NeedsManaging Your Child’s Intensity During the HolidaysIntense Children and The Holidays: A Parent’s GuideRLL 33: The Holidays and Your Differently-Wired ChildAutism and the Holidays | Julie’s School Performance Story Connect with Sarah Website: https://www.homeschoolOT.comYou can also find Sarah on Instagram
Connect with Colleen You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, InstagramHow does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #220: Parenting Gifted Kids with Gail Post, Ph.D.
15 november 2023 |
43 min
Colleen has a delightful conversation with clinical psychologist, Gail Post, Ph.D. in today’s episode. Gail has years of personal and professional experience with the gifted community and shares so much regarding the emotional and social needs. Grab your earbuds and get ready for some practical parenting ideas and lived-in advice on raising our intelligent and intense kiddos.
Gail Post, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist, parenting coach/consultant, workshop leader, writer, parent of two gifted young adults, and Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. In practice for over 35 years, she specializes in intellectual and musical giftedness and twice-exceptionalities. Her writing includes hundreds of articles, several book chapters, a long-standing blog, Gifted Challenges. and her book, The Gifted Parenting Journey.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Links and Resources from Today's Show
The Gifted Parenting Journey by Gail Post, Ph.D. Workshop with Gail Post, Ph.D.| Gifted Parenting Journey Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. SENG: Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted Supporting The Social and Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Twice-Exceptional Kids Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids Finding Community: Building a Support System Online and In-Person Smart Kids Still Need Help When You Just Aren’t Comfortable Getting Help for Your Child Episode 319: Dr. Gail Post on the Journey of Parenting Gifted Children Parent Footprint with Dr. Dan: The Gifted Parenting Journey with Gail Post How Do I Parent My Gifted Kid with Dr. Gail Post Parenting from the Inside Out: How a Deeper Self-Understanding Can Help You Raise Children Who Thrive: 10th Anniversary Edition RLL LIVE | Q & A – Parenting Differently-Wired Kiddos Connect with ColleenYou can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL 219: Finding Your Community with a Neurodivergent Family
8 november 2023 |
29 min
We are raising kids who are learning and developing in ways that do not fit in with the typical milestones. They may be reading at three, yet at ten are still struggling to find meaningful friendships.
We, as parents can, often feel isolation when raising neurodivergent children. They notice that they are outliers, and we feel it, too. That doesn’t mean making connections is impossible, though! There are steps we can take, to help our family find their tribe and build a community.
In today’s episode, Colleen will be talking about her experiences with co-ops, classes, and helping her neurodivergent family find community.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Additional Links and Resources Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community - The Learners LabRaising Lifelong Learners Facebook GroupMasterclass| If He’s Really So Smart… Why Gifted Kids Struggle and What to Do About It Raising Resilient Sons by Collleen Kessler, M.Ed. Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse KidsWhy Join a Gifted Parent Group?Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional KidsThe Anxiety Toolkit Nurturing Authenticity | Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Discovering Their True SelvesThe Social Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Neurodiverse Children - Raising Lifelong Learners
Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #218 - Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins
1 november 2023 |
51 min
We have Sarah Collins from Homeschool OT on the podcast again, this time to talk about self-regulation for our kiddos. Colleen and Sarah will deep dive into the different sensory systems and look for each day. This episode is full of information on why sensory integration is important, along with practical tips and activities to include in your day to teach your kids to regulate and help them most.
Connect with Sarah
Sarah Collins |The Homeschool OT Instagram
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Additional Links and Resources Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab Masterclass|Finding Peace in a Life Filled with Intensity Raising Resilient Sons by Collleen Kessler, M.Ed. Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs How to Integrate the Zones At Home with Guest Writer, Sarah Collins, OTR/L Gifted Children and Sensual Overexcitabilities: A Parent’s Guide Yard Work for Sensory Input - Raising Lifelong Learners Co-regulation - HomeschoolOT Sensory Play for Kids - Raising Lifelong Learners Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #217: Find a Place of Belonging for Your Neurodiverse Kids
18 oktober 2023 |
30 min
Our neurodivergent kids may require extra help finding a peer group where they feel comfortable being themselves and sharing their thoughts and interests. It’s essential for us to be in tune with our children so that we can find places for them to connect with others. That may be connecting them with people of all ages who share hobbies, sports, or academic interests.
Today Colleen will discusses ways you can help your gifted, 2e, and neurodivergent kids find belonging in ways that validate who they are. It may not look the same as you thought, but meaningful relationships are possible.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Links and Resources Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab Masterclass| Masterclass | Cultivating a Healthy Mindset - Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Resilient Sons by Collleen Kessler, M.Ed. Building Self-Esteem in Kids The Powerful Relationship Between Confidence And Learning In Our Homeschools 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids - Raising Lifelong Learners The Best Advice I Can Give You: Become A Student Of Your Child Finding Homeschool Community (for our children and ourselves)
Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #216: Homeschooling Kids with Profound Special Needs with Katie Keene
11 oktober 2023 |
40 min
Katie Keene is the host of the top 1% globally rated podcast Her Home and Heart, and host to a membership community of beautiful Christian homeschooling families on the journey to peace at home and generational family success despite the challenges of raising a special needs child.
Her mission is simple: to ensure that no family breaks apart simply due to lack of tools to create a SOLID, peaceful, and joyful family foundation at home.
Katie is most passionate about helping special needs families create strong bonds and deep roots, so they don’t wake up one day to regret.
Learn more about how she teaches moms to build a successful and joyful home, and to grab coupons, freebies, and links to Katie’s best kept secrets go to linktr.ee/FamilySuccess
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
You can find Katie at: The Greater Honor Special Needs Community: https://herhomeandheart.net/tgh Facebook: https://urlgeni.us/facebook/HHAHGroup Her Home and Heart Podcast with Katie Keene
Additional Links and Resources
Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab
Masterclass| Homeschooling Your Gifted and Special Needs Child | Get Started
Raising Resilient Sons by Collleen Kessler, M.Ed.
RLL #45: Homeschooling Special Needs Kiddos with Faith Berens
My Neurodivergent Kiddo Needs So Much Help…
Forget the Box | Embracing Your Child’s Otherness
Safe Place Fatigue | The Wear and Tear of Being Your Child’s Person
RLL #64: What to Do When School Doesn’t Work RLL #60: Raising Differently-Wired Kids with Debbie Reber Homeschooling During Overwhelming Times - Raising Lifelong Learners
Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #215: Helping Our Kids Set Healthy Boundaries
4 oktober 2023 |
39 min
Today Colleen is talking about helping our children draw healthy boundaries, with the example of family members wanting a hug when our child is not comfortable giving one. This question was submitted during one of the group coaching events in The Learners Lab, a Raising Lifelong Learners online community for neurodiverse homeschooling families. Each month in the Lab Colleen hosts a group coaching night. Parents can submit their questions ahead of time and Colleen will take the time to answer each one.
One goal we have for our neurodiverse kids is the ability to advocate for themselves as they grow older. One of the best ways to do this is by honoring their needs. Perhaps you have a child with a sensory struggle, anxiety around others, or becomes easily overwhelmed in new environments. When we acknowledge their limits and draw healthy boundaries we teach our kids that it is healthy to know what they need and express it kindly to others.
Our sponsors for today’s episode are CTC Math and Reading Eggs
Additional Links and Resources
Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab
Masterclass| Building Family Connections
Raising Resilient Sons by Collleen Kessler, M.Ed.
Respecting Your Child’s Sensory Needs: When You Have to Say “No”
Am I Spoiling My Child or Accommodating His Special Needs?
A Unique Place For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids To Thrive
My Child Won't Wear Socks: Dressing A Child With Sensory Processing Disorder
Calm the Chaos with Dayna Abraham
The Social Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Neurodiverse Children
If He’s REALLY So Smart… When Gifted Kids Struggle
Connect with Colleen
You can find Colleen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #214: Calm the Chaos with Dayna Abraham
27 september 2023 |
35 min
Welcome to Raising Lifelong Learners, the podcast that delves into the challenges and triumphs of parenting exceptional children while fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Today's guest is Dayna Abraham, author of the newly released book, Calm the Chaos. Dayna is the founder of Calm the Chaos Parenting and the popular parenting blog, Lemon Lime Adventures. She’s worked with hundreds of thousands of parents around the world struggling with some of the most challenging behaviors to go from barely surviving to creating families that work together, advocate for each other and empower each other. She’s the best-selling author of Sensory Processing 101 and Superkids Activity Guide.
In today's episode, we tackle an important issue: helping children articulate their discomfort and advocate for themselves. Dayna shares personal anecdotes and strategies for empowering children to express their feelings and communicate their needs effectively. Join us as we explore the stages of self-advocacy, discuss homeschooling pressures, and delve into the power of modeling behavior and open communication.
Get ready to feel supported, understood, and inspired by our incredible community of parents raising exceptional children. Let's dive in!
Find Calm the Chaos here: http://calmthechaosbook.com
Connect with Dayna on social here: https://www.facebook.com/calmthechaosparenting
Calm the Chaos workshop: https://calmthechaosworkshop.com/
Additional Links and Resources
Sponsor: CTC Math
Sponsor: Reading Eggs
Raising Lifelong Learners Community - The Learners Lab
Masterclass| Finding Peace in a Life Filled With Intensity
Homeschooling Gifted Kids | Meeting Asynchronous Abilities
Giving Your Child Life Skills | Metacognition
Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted Kids with Jim Delisle
When the World Overwhelms Your Anxious Child | How You Can Help
The Social Emotional Needs of Gifted and Neurodiverse Children
Anxiety vs. Stress vs. Perfectionism: Helping Our Children Cope
If He’s REALLY So Smart….When Gifted Kids Struggle
Getting Back to Homeschool After a Mental Health Crisis
Connect with Colleen
You can find me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
How does your child learn best? Take the Quiz!
RLL #213: Nurturing Authenticity | Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Discovering Their True Selves
20 september 2023 |
28 min
Today, we dive into the topic of helping our children embrace their authenticity and discover who they truly are. This discussion is prompted by the upcoming focus on this subject in the Learners Lab community.
We emphasize the importance of nurturing an environment where our kids feel comfortable being themselves and exploring their interests and passions. By fostering open communication, acceptance, and understanding, we can empower our children to develop a strong sense of self-esteem, emotional well-being, and resilience. Join us as we explore practical ways to create a nurturing environment and encourage our kids to embrace their unique identities.
Raising Lifelong Learners is brought to you by CTCMath. CTC Math is an online math curriculum that is perfect for homeschoolers with children of different ability levels. It provides teaching and access to all grade levels, allowing children to progress at their own pace. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #212: The Power of Connecting with Your Kids in Homeschooling
13 september 2023 |
28 min
Today we're diving into a favorite topic - connecting with your kids. We talk about the vital role that building a strong relationship with your child plays in creating a successful homeschooling experience.
Remember that academics can always be remediated, but damaged relationships and self-esteem can have long-lasting effects on our children's learning. We explore why many of us chose to homeschool in the first place - the desire to provide a safe and supportive environment for our children, and discuss the importance of being our children's person, their safe place to land, and how connecting with them on a deep level lays the foundation for trust and open communication. In this episode, we highlights the significance of identifying triggers and helping our children navigate anxiety and stress.
Raising Lifelong Learners is brought to you by CTCMath. CTC Math is an online math curriculum that is perfect for homeschoolers with children of different ability levels. It provides teaching and access to all grade levels, allowing children to progress at their own pace. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #211: Self-Care and Co-Regulation | Balancing Parenting and Sensory Needs
6 september 2023 |
48 min
Today, we're chatting with Sarah Collins of HomeschoolOT.com, delving into the topic of parenting with sensory needs and challenges while homeschooling, and discussing how the challenges we face as parents can trigger similar challenges in our children, creating a cycle that we need to proactively address.
Sarah shares valuable tips on how to take care of ourselves as parents and effectively homeschool our children. Stay tuned to discover how to effectively communicate with our children, model healthy adulthood, and navigate the unique sensory quirks that come with homeschooling neurodivergent children.
Raising Lifelong Learners is brought to you by CTCMath. CTC Math is an online math curriculum that is perfect for homeschoolers with children of different ability levels. It provides teaching and access to all grade levels, allowing children to progress at their own pace. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #210: Activities to Strengthen Your Family Team
30 augusti 2023 |
23 min
Our family unit is the backbone of our homeschool. There are many habits and activities that can nurture a team mentality. It is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your kids to be successful in anything you do and build a strong, resilient, emotionally intelligent family.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #209: Prioritizing Self-Care is Important for You and Your Kids
23 augusti 2023 |
27 min
One of the most beautiful things about homeschooling is how we can adjust kid-to-kid, and year-to-year. It's also one of the things that messes with us as parents. It’s inevitable when everything is functioning well, there’s another change: developmentally, emotionally, physically and we find ourselves reevaluating again. It can be hard, tiring, and wear us out.
That is why self-care is essential for those of us homeschooling differently-wired kids.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #208: Helping Your Differently Wired Kids Fall in Love with Reading
17 augusti 2023 |
73 min
Today we're doing something different -- we're sharing a talk that Colleen gave at the Great Homeschool Convention with Sarah Mackenzie of Read Aloud Revival. They address both sides of the reading spectrum, with Sarah discussing struggling readers and then Colleen shifting the conversation to advanced readers.
You will leave with ideas and strategies that will help your kids wherever they are.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #207: Create the Best Homeschool For Your Family
9 augusti 2023 |
30 min
You have neurodiverse children. They are gifted, they are twice exceptional, they have anxiety, perfectionism, sensory struggles, or perhaps they're on the autism spectrum. They have any number of neurodiversities. I am right there with you. I believe with my whole heart that homeschooling is the best possible educational choice for kids like ours.
And I'm here to help you with that. So today we're going to talk about opening your mind to new possibilities. It's a different kind of education, and it's exciting.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #206: Guide Your Kids on the path to Self-Discovery
2 augusti 2023 |
27 min
Self-discovery is a powerful tool we can use and harness to help our kids feel good about themselves and be successful and to help all of us in the family thrive in our atypical, differently-wired homeschool. Colleen will be sharing ways we can guide our kids in ways that help them discover who they are and how their brains are wired.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #205: Create a Multimodal Learning Environment
26 juli 2023 |
33 min
The concept of multimodal learning has so many potential benefits for our neurodivergent kiddos that it's empowering, really. Multimodal learning means using a variety of different styles, a variety of different senses, and a variety of different strategies in what you do. In today’s episode Colleen will explore what that looks like in your homeschool.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #204 - Giving Your Child Life Skills | Metacognition
19 juli 2023 |
31 min
Metacognition is the ability to think about our own thinking, and that is exactly what Colleen will be talking about in today’s episode. Metacognition impacts many areas of our child’s development. Colleen will be discussing how we can implement different strategies into the homeschool day to develop this ability in our kids, which will help them in all areas of life including family relationships, school, work, and socially with peers.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #203 - Strengthening Executive Function Skills: A Conversation with Sarah Collins
12 juli 2023 |
39 min
In today's episode, Colleen and Sarah Collins of HomeschoolOT discuss how executive function skills are essential when homeschooling neurodivergent children. They chat about ways to support our children, such as equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge and building their metacognitive and self-awareness skills.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #202 - Strengthen Executive Function Skills
7 juni 2023 |
30 min
On today's podcast episode, Colleen talks about the eight main executive function skills. She'll help you to identify the ways deficits in these areas impact your child's day-to-day life and show up in their struggles. She's also got some ideas for building each of these skills with your kiddos.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #201 - Helping Your Impulsive Child
31 maj 2023 |
34 min
Today on the podcast Colleen discusses how to identify the signs of impulsive behavior in children and how to distinguish impulsivity from other common behavioral factors. She also shares some of her favorite tips for supporting your impulsive kiddos and teaching them strategies they can use to handle the common challenges that come with impulsivity and other co-occurring neurodivergencey like attention deficit disorder and autism.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #200 - Sneaking In Summer Learning
24 maj 2023 |
34 min
Will you continue "school" during the summer? Or will you learn in other, less formal ways? In today's podcast episode, Colleen shares what summer looks like for her family and how they use it in ways even homeschoolers might find surprising!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #199 - Managing Perfectionism | Strategies for Parents
17 maj 2023 |
33 min
Children who struggle with perfectionism have unrealistic standards for themselves or others. They believe that they must be perfect to be valuable and worthy of love. This can result in negative self-talk, fear of failure, relationship challenges, and even mental health issues. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia are often related to struggles with perfectionist thoughts.
Even parents with good intentions and high expectations can inadvertently promote perfectionistic thoughts or perfectionistic behavior in children who believe they must earn love by being a higher achiever.
Do you have a child who struggles with perfectionism or perfectionistic tendencies? In this episode, we'll talk about how to identify perfectionistic behaviors. I'll share some of my favorite strategies for helping our kids identify and counter their perfectionistic thoughts and patterns.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #198 - Finding Homeschool Balance
10 maj 2023 |
27 min
Whether you're new to this homeschool journey or you're a long-time homeschooling parent, finding balance among all the different and competing responsibilities on your plate is a difficult and often overwhelming challenge. Today, Colleen shares the secret she's learned about what healthy balance actually looks like and how you can tell if you're hitting that mark in your family, life, and homeschool!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #197: Igniting Your Kids' Passions
3 maj 2023 |
33 min
You can tell from the title of Colleen's podcast that she's all about lifelong learning. But today she dive deeper into that topic. How exactly do you develop your kids as lifelong learners? How to you figure out what their unique abilities and true passion are (especially when it seems like it might just be video games!)? And what does it look like to support and even stoke the flames of those interests and pursuits? Colleen shares some of her best tips for doing just that and hopefully helping you to reframe your entire perspective on what a successful homeschool looks like!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #196: Building Self-Esteem in Kids
26 april 2023 |
26 min
Why is self-esteem important and how does it impact your child's learning and personal growth? On today's podcast episode Colleen talks about seven important steps you can take to build your kids' self-esteem and what role family members and peer groups can play in this essential area of your child's development and emotional resilience.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #195 - Test Your Homeschooled Child
19 april 2023 |
31 min
Parents often ask whether they should have their child tested for giftedness, learning disabilities, anxiety, or other unique characteristics that seem to impact their child's emotional resilience, learning, and educational achievement. Are tests a good way to understand and meet those needs? Colleen answers that questions specifically with reference to families who are homeschooling as this unique context has an important impact on the answer!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #194 - Motivating Your Struggling Learner
12 april 2023 |
32 min
In today's podcast episode, Colleen walks you through several factors that might contribute to your child's lack of motivation (or apparent lack of motivation) what you can do to identify the obstacles, and how you can build a supportive environment that utilizes your student's strengths and interests to build internal motivation!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #193 - Should I Homeschool My Twice-Exceptional Student?
5 april 2023 |
38 min
In today's podcast episode, Colleen answers a mom's questions about considering homeschooling as an option for her twice-exceptional student. It can be overwhelming to consider taking this step, wondering where you'll find the resources you'll need and how to help your kids get connected with peers. Colleen shares some of her best advice and the things that have really worked for her family over the years in today's episode!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #192 - Comparison: A Toxic Parenting Trap
29 mars 2023 |
24 min
It's easy to slip into the temptation to compare our kids to others because it's the easy, even lazy, way to quickly build our kids up and help them to feel better about themselves. What we might not consider are the unintended consequences and the emotional fallout that can result when we compare our kids to each other or other kids and especially when we do that out loud in front of them. In today's episode, Colleen helps you to see the impact of comparison and how you can change course and adopt a healthier way to encourage your kids and build their confidence!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #191 - Celebrating Your Child's Neurodiversity
22 mars 2023 |
25 min
On last week's podcast, Colleen talked about some of the unique challenges and also unique strengths of homeschooling neurodiverse and twice exceptional kids. This week, Colleen explores specifically why it's so important that we as parents embrace, lean into and celebrate our children's neurodiversity and teach them to view it as a gift and not a defect. Colleen has some specific strategies to share, plus a bunch of encouragement about the positive outcomes you can expect when we truly celebrate who are children were made to be!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #190: Homeschooling Your Neurodiverse Kid
15 mars 2023 |
33 min
There are many challenges to homeschooling neurodiverse kids. Colleen can tell you you're not alone if you're bumping up against some of those challenges. But, surprisingly, sometimes the things that make homeschooling your gifted and twice-exceptional kids hard work are also the things that make homeschooling such a beautiful fit for them! In this podcast episode, Colleen will equip you with some great ideas to seize the homeschool opportunity and thrive in it with your kiddos!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #189: Parenting in the Moment with Your Child
8 mars 2023 |
26 min
It isn't easy being a mom of differently wired kiddos and being fully present while still juggling all of the other responsibilities of adult life as well as homeschooling! In today's podcast episode Colleen shares some more detailed strategies for how you can carve out that intentional time with your children and give them the best of yourself even when you have a lot of other responsibilities to manage!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #188: Create a Custom Homeschool
1 mars 2023 |
22 min
In today's episodes of the Raising Lifelong Learners podcast, Colleen talks about what to do if they homeschool opportunities your kiddos need just don't exist - or at least don't exist in your local area. She shares tons of tips for creating what it is that your kids need if it isn't already available, and even a variety of suggestions for what that might look like and how to to find your people locally to make this idea a reality!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #187: Knowing if Your Child is Gifted
22 februari 2023 |
29 min
In today's podcast episode, Colleen talks about the characteristics of gifted children. Even though they are not all the same, there are lots of common traits that can help you to recognize if your high achievers may actually be gifted. She also discusss some of the less known or understood aspects of giftedness that go deeper than just being bright students, good readers, or math champions!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #186: Should I Accelerate My Profoundly Gifted Child?
15 februari 2023 |
27 min
Parents of gifted learners - especially profoundly gifted children - often struggle to balance the educational acceleration of their children with their emotional development. What are current best practices for academic acceleration of exceptionally gifted children and how can parents meet both the academic and social needs of these students? Should we allow our kids to finish high school early and proceed to college courses?
On today's episode, Colleen will help you think through all the options, and give you the tools to make the best choice for your own unique learner!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #185: My Neurodivergent Kiddo Needs So Much Help...
8 februari 2023 |
31 min
Do you find yourself spending lots of extra time supporting the social and emotional needs of your gifted, twice-exceptional, or otherwise neurodiverse kiddo and worry that your other kids are being neglected? Has the additional care and attention you've devoted to one child put a strain on sibling relationships?
If you're facing this struggle, you're not alone! Colleen talks about some practical strategies for evaluating the needs of the children (all of the children!) in your home and finding creative ways to meet those needs.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #184: What to Do When You Doubt Your Choice to Homeschool
1 februari 2023 |
33 min
Today on the podcast Colleen is addressing a question that came from one listener, but it could just as well have come from any number of moms she's talked to - in her private consulting as well as in the Learner's Lab community. What if I'm not cut out for this? What if I don't have what it takes? What if I need to do more or be more ... and I just can't? What do we tell ourselves on those self-doubt days? Colleen shares some go-to reminders for those days that all homeschool moms experience!
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #183: How to Recover from a Bad Homeschool Day
25 januari 2023 |
34 min
If you are feeling like a homeschool failure, if you've hit the winter doldrums slump of the school year and wondering if you're ruining your children, Colleen has just the message you need to hear. She shares a cringe-worthy disaster that happened in her kitchen ... and how she used that unexpected event to remind herself (and us) of important strategies for emotional resilliance when we feel like we've hit a wall.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #182: When One Child Has A Diagnosis And Their Siblings Are All Neurotypical
18 januari 2023 |
29 min
This episode is based on a listerner's questions and concerns about having one child newly diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia and dysgraphia while the rest of her siblings are neurotypical. Colleen responds with real life examples, support and encouragement while providing practical tips to help ease the overwhelm.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #181: Getting Back Into A Routine In The New Year
11 januari 2023 |
34 min
The transition from the relaxed, anything goes nature of a holiday break to some sort of regular homeschooling routine can be real challenge each year. In today's episode, Colleen shares the reality of helping neurodiverse kids transition back to school after a break, as well as her best tips and tricks for success.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #180: My Biggest Homeschool Regret (and my Greatest Victory)
4 januari 2023 |
30 min
We are kicking off the new year with two questions I am asked all the time. #1 - What is my biggest homeschool regret? and #2 - What is my greatest homeschool victory?
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #179: Gratitude For The Holidays - Why It Is So Helpful For Our Kids
14 december 2022 |
32 min
As we continue our discussion of how to navigate the holiday season with intense kiddos, today's focus is on gratitude. Colleen shares ideas for how to help our families practice gratitude during the holidays, and why it matters so much for neurodiverse kids.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #178: Intense Children And The Holidays
7 december 2022 |
29 min
For intense children, the holidays can be a difficult season. In today's episode, Colleen shares how to help your intense kids during the holidays, including tips for navigating the chaos and overstimulation that comes with the holiday season, so that your kids can actually have fun.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #177 - The Social Emotional Needs Of Neurodiverse Children
30 november 2022 |
29 min
The social and emotional needs of gifted and twice exceptional children are a common concern for parents. How do we help strengthen and support our neurodiverse children as they navigate social development and emotional regulation? Colleen is here to help.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #176: Homeschooling High School: Transcripts, Mom-Guilt, And Finishing Strong
23 november 2022 |
24 min
Homeschooling high school can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! In this episode, Colleen discusses practical tips and tricks for creating transcripts, managing the worry and guilt as well as strategies to help you and your child finish strong.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #175: Interest-Led Learning For High School
16 november 2022 |
29 min
This is the second episode in a two part series, all about the ages and stages of interest-led learning. Join Colleen as she shares practical examples and encouragement for homeschooling high school using an interest-led approach.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL#174: Interest-Led Learning In The Early Years
9 november 2022 |
29 min
This is the first episode in a two part series, all about the ages and stages of interest-led learning. Join Colleen as she shares practical examples and encouragement for child directed learning, beginning in the preschool years.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #173: Helping Your Child Find Their Interests
2 november 2022 |
33 min
How do we help our kids find their interests? What can we do to foster them and then what happens if our kids change interests? These are all good questions and worth exploring as we move into a more relaxed, eclectic, interest led, child driven approach in our homeschools.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #172: The Pros And Cons Of Homeschool Charter Schools
26 oktober 2022 |
31 min
Does your state offer charter school options for homeschoolers? Have you been wondering if a charter might be a good option for your family? I am joined in this episode by Shawna Wingert. She shares her own experience with a homeschool charter and what she sees as the overall pros and cons of enrolling in one.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #163: How do we let go of our older children and give them the space they need?
24 augusti 2022 |
29 min
Colleen tackles another listener question - "How do we let go of our older children and give them the space they need?"
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #162: Motivating Your High Schooler - My Best Homeschool Tips
17 augusti 2022 |
34 min
It can feel overwhelming when we think about homeschooling teens through the high school years, but it doesn't have to be! In this episode, Colleen shares her best advice and tips to help your high schooler stay motivated through the teen years.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #161: Practical Strategies For Helping Anxious Kids
10 augusti 2022 |
38 min
Colleen concludes this series all about children with anxiety with a practical and honest discussion of stragtegies we can use to help our anxious kids.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #160: Anxiety and Learning
3 augusti 2022 |
32 min
This episode continues our series, all about managing anxiety in gifted and twice exceptional children. Today, Colleen discusses the reality of learning when a child is anxious and how we can help.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #159: Physical, Emotional, and Behavioral Symptoms Of Anxiety
27 juli 2022 |
36 min
In this episode of the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast, Colleen continues a new series, all about anxiety and our atypical kids. This discussion includes information about the physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of anxiety in our children and how we can help.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #158: Anxiety vs. Stress vs. Perfectionism In Children
20 juli 2022 |
43 min
This new series is all about homeschooling a child with anxiety. Today, Colleen kicks it off with a discussion of the differences between stress and anxiety, as well as the impact of perfectionism on our gifted children.
The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is brought to you by CTCMath. Find out more at https://www.ctcmath.com/purchase/homeschool50?tr_id=RLL.
RLL #157: Navigating Summer Learning With Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
25 maj 2022 |
54 min
Summer is just around the corner. Navigating the summer months with your gifted and twice exceptional child can bring on a new level of challenges. Colleen shares her family's plans and offers resources to help.
RLL #156: Why Community Is So Important For Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
18 maj 2022 |
69 min
In this episode, Colleen shares the unique role that community plays in the life of a gifted and twice exceptional child. She discusses why it matters and how to go about finding the right community for your family.
RLL #155: Perfectionism and Your Gifted Child
11 maj 2022 |
51 min
In this episode, Colleen talks frankly about the impact of perfectionism on gifted children and how parents can help.
RLL #154: The Power Of Reading For Gifted Children (Advanced Readers And Social Emotional Learning)
4 maj 2022 |
64 min
In this episode, Colleen and Shawna discuss the unique role reading and story can play in the life of a gifted child. They share information on how to help an advanced reader and the role of books in social emotional learning for gifted and twice exceptional kids.
RLL #153: Inquiry Based Learning For Gifted Kids
27 april 2022 |
46 min
This series is all about equipping our kids for the future with a sense of wonder, adventure, joy and encouragement. Today's topic is a discussion about inquiry based learning - what inquiry based learning really is, plus resources and ideas for how to incorporate it into your homeschool.
Learn more about Synthesis --https://go.synthesis.is/rll
RLL #152: Project Based Learning For Gifted Kids
20 april 2022 |
48 min
RLL #151: Play-Based Learning In Your Homeschool
13 april 2022 |
37 min
This new series is all about equipping our kids for the future with a sense of wonder, adventure, joy and encouragement. Today, Colleen specifically explores the power of play-based learning, and provides practical examples of how to incorporate it into your homeschool.
Learn more about Synthesis: https://go.synthesis.is/rll
RLL #150: Future Proofing Our Kids In An Ever Changing World
6 april 2022 |
42 min
This new series is all about equipping our kids for the future with a sense of wonder, adventure, joy and encouragement. Today's topic is an introduction, all about "future proofing" our kids in an ever changing world. Throughout the course of this series, we'll discuss child led learning and interest driven choices that we can make in our homeschool, to help prepare our children for the future. (Learn more about Synthesis ---> https://go.synthesis.is/rll)
RLL#149: Moms With ADHD Homeschooling Children With ADHD
30 mars 2022 |
56 min
This continues our series all about homeschooling a child with ADHD. Today, I'm sharing my own experience as a mom with ADHD homeschooling my own children with ADHD. This episode includes research about the family genetics of ADHD, coping strategies for moms in the trenches, and how to create the best possible environment for homeschooling a child with ADHD when you have ADHD yourself.
RLL #148: Motivating Your Child With ADHD
16 mars 2022 |
48 min
We continue our series all about homeschooling a child with ADHD. Today, Shawna Wingert joins Colleen to share 7 tips for motivating your child with ADHD.
RLL#147: Homeschooling Tips For Wiggly Kids
2 mars 2022 |
46 min
This series is all about homeschooling a child with ADHD. Today, Colleen shares her best tips for homeschooling a child who struggles with sitting still and is often "wiggly" throughout their learning.
RLL#146: ADHD And Your Homeschool, An Overview
16 februari 2022 |
38 min
In this episode, we kick off our new series all about homeschooling with ADHD. Today, our focus is an overview of ADHD, and how it impacts your child and your homeschool. Colleen also shares tips for successfully homeschooling your child with ADHD.
RLL#145: Emotional Overexcitabilities And Your Gifted Child
9 februari 2022 |
36 min
In this episode, we continue our overexcitabilities series for parents of gifted children. Today, the focus is on emotional excitabilities and gifted children. Colleen discusses what these overexcitabilities are and how to support and help your child.
RLL#144: Imaginational Overexcitabilities And Your Gifted Child
2 februari 2022 |
37 min
In this episode, we continue our overexcitabilities series for parents of gifted children. Today, the focus is Imaginational Overexcitabilities and gifted children. Colleen discusses what these overexcitabilities are and how to help your child.
RLL#143: Intellectual Overexcitabilities And Your Gifted Child
26 januari 2022 |
32 min
This continues our overexcitabilities series for parents of gifted children. Today, Colleen explores intellectual overexcitabilities and gifted children.
RLL #142 Gifted Children and Sensual Overexcitabilities
19 januari 2022 |
35 min
In today's episode, we continue our overexcitabilities series for parents of gifted children. Today, the focus is sensual excitabilities and gifted children. Colleen discusses what these overexcitabilities are and how to help your child.
RLL #141: Eclectic Homeschooling Works For Gifted Kids
20 oktober 2021 |
25 min
Taking an eclectic approach to homeschooling when your child is gifted or twice exceptional makes sense. In fact, I believe it to be one of the best ways to engage and challenge a gifted learner. Today, I am sharing 101 reasons why!
RLL #140: Psychomotor Overexcitabilities And Gifted Children
13 oktober 2021 |
24 min
In today's episode, we continue our overexcitabilities series for parents of gifted children. Today, the focus is psychomotor excitabilities and our gifted children. Colleen discusses what these overexcitabilities are and how to help your child.
RLL #139: The Importance Of Play For Your Entire Family
7 oktober 2021 |
29 min
It's easy to think of examples of how play helps young children and preschoolers. But what about older kids, teens, and even adults? The importance of play for your entire family is significant and the focus of our discussion today.
A Guide To Overexcitabilities And Gifted Children
30 september 2021 |
40 min
Gifted children tend to have multiple intensities. These intensities are also referred to as overexcitabilities. In today's episode, Colleen introduces the theory of overexcitabilities and shares support and encouragement for parenting gifted children with intensities.
5 Things You Need To Know About Homeschooling Gifted Kids
22 september 2021 |
47 min
If you are homeschooling a gifted or twice exceptional child, it probably looks different than you expected. Today, Colleen is sharing 5 Things You Need To Know About Homeschooling Gifted Kids. This a a real life, honest look at what it is really like!
RLL #136: Homeschooling Your Gifted Child With Interest-Led Learning
15 september 2021 |
12 min
One of the advantages of homeschooling your gifted child is the ability to incorporate their interests and passions into your learning. But how does it work in real life? This is a snapshot of what homeschooling your gifted child with interest-led learning is all about.
Our Gifted Homeschool Curriculum Overview: 2021-2022
8 september 2021 |
46 min
Finding gifted homeschool curriculum can be a challenge for homeschooling parents. Having a chance to take a peek inside someone else's homeschool is one of the best ways to get inspired and learn what works. With this in mind, I am sharing everything we are planning for the upcoming school year in our homeschool.
RLL #134: Can I Help My Child Become More Optimistic?
1 september 2021 |
26 min
When your child is struggling with a negative mindset, it can affect all aspects of learning and family life. That's why a question that often comes up is "Can I help my child become more optimistic?" The answer is most certainly, "Yes." This episode of the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast is all about how you can make a difference and help your child develop skills to become more optimistic.
RLL #133: Homeschooling Middle School Using Your Own Interest-Based Curriculum
25 augusti 2021 |
18 min
Creating your own interest-led middle school curriculum is not only possible, it's preferable for many gifted and twice exceptional children. In this episode of the podcast, Colleen shares how she encourages her tweens and teens to take on more responsibility for their education and how to get started creating your own interest-led, middle school homeschool curriculum.
RLL #132: Homeschooling A Gifted Child Who Struggles With Reading
18 augusti 2021 |
53 min
This is the second episode in our series with Marianne Sunderland, from Homeschooling With Dyslexia. Today, we are specially discussing gifted children and dyslexia. This conversation includes testing, using assistive technology, and most importantly, encouragement that you are the best person to help your child succeed in learning and in life!
RLL #131: Homeschooling A Child With Dyslexia - It's More Than Reading
11 augusti 2021 |
58 min
Homeschooling a child with dyslexia has it's own unique challenges and opportunities. The more we learn about dyslexia, the more we understand that homeschooling a child with dyslexia is about more than just reading. In this episode, we talk with Marianne Sunderland, She has been homeschooling for 26 years and is considered an expert in helping children with dyslexia. In fact, seven of her eight kids have dyslexia.
Homeschool Planning For Kids: Helping Your Child Get Organized
4 augusti 2021 |
58 min
Every year about this time, we begin to plan for and discuss our upcoming homeschool year. It's like a homeschool mom annual ritual. But what about our children? Homeschool planning for kids is a helpful skill to develop and is essential as our children graduate and move into the world.
In this practical and down to earth episode of the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast, Colleen and Shawna discuss the in's and out's of helping your child plan their homeschool days, weeks, and months.
RLL #129: Nurturing Your Gifted Toddler
28 juli 2021 |
23 min
In this episode of The Raising Lifelong Learner's podcast, Colleen addresses a common concern - the uncertainty of parenting and nurturing a gifted toddler.
RLL #128: Helping Anxious Children And Their Siblings
22 juli 2021 |
30 min
Colleen answers a frequently asked question today on the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast: How do you help siblings understand when one child has anxiety? This episode is all about helping anxious children and their siblings.
What It's Really Like To Homeschool A Twice Exceptional Child
15 juli 2021 |
15 min
There are a lot of misconceptions about twice exceptional children and homeschooling. In this episode of the Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast, Colleen shares what it's really like to homeschool a twice exceptional child, both as a gifted education specialist and a homeschooling parent.
RLL #126: What’s The Difference Between Interest-Led and Strength Based Learning?
7 juli 2021 |
36 min
In this special episode of the Raising Lifelong Learner’s Podcast, Shawna Wingert shares valuable information about getting started with strength-based learning in your homeschool. She also answers a frequently asked question: What is the difference between interest-led and strength-based learning?
RLL #125: Is Your Child Profoundly Gifted?
30 juni 2021 |
16 min
Wondering if your child is profoundly gifted? What does profoundly gifted even mean? In this episode, Colleen discusses how to determine if your child falls into the profoundly gifted category. She also shares the reality of homeschooling a profoundly gifted child.
RLL #124: Homeschooling With Purpose, A Conversation with Pam Barnhill
23 juni 2021 |
40 min
Colleen is joined by her good friend and fellow veteran homeschool mom, Pam Barnhill. Honest and practical, they talk about planning, what gets in the way on a Monday morning, and provide access to resources that will help homeschoolers at any stage. If you homeschool or are even thinking about homeschooling, this episode is for you!
RLL #123: When Your Child’s Giftedness Is Disguised
16 juni 2021 |
14 min
Giftedness is often disguised in our brightest kiddos. In this episode, Colleen explains how even as an expert in the field, her son's giftedness was difficult for her to uncover. Practical and encouraging, you don't want to miss this honest look at parenting gifted children.
RLL #122: A Special Conversation With Homeschool Graduate, Trevor Kessler
9 juni 2021 |
55 min
In this very special episode, Colleen is joined by her son and new homeschool high school graduate, Trevor. This is a must listen for any homeschool parent wondering how their child will feel about the decision to homeschool once the journey is done.
RLL #121: Finding Homeschool Community (for our children and ourselves)
2 juni 2021 |
34 min
One of the challenges of homeschooling is finding a community that works for your child's needs and interests. In this episode of The Raising Lifelong Learner Podcast, Colleen and Shawna discuss the reality of finding a homeschool community for our children and for ourselves.
RLL #120: A Different Kind Of Family Togetherness with Celeste Orr
26 maj 2021 |
43 min
Do you want more for your family? Do you have bigger dreams and a desire for deeper relationships with your kids? Join Colleen in this encouraging and practical conversation with Celeste Orr, from Togetherness Redefined. They discuss creating meaningful connections with our children and sustaining a deeply satisfying family life.
RLL #119: The Best Advice I Can Give You Is To Become A Student Of Your Child
19 maj 2021 |
58 min
One of the best pieces of advice I give a parent is to become a student of their child. To really pay attention and discover what your child is interested in, passionate about, or wants to explore further so you can use that information to design the best homeschool ever. In this episode, we revisit a conversation with Andrew Peterson all about how to practically become students of our children.
RLL #118: Accepting Our Quirky Kids As They Are (not how we want them to be)
12 maj 2021 |
48 min
Parenting gifted and twice exceptional children can bring an entire host of fears and guilt, when our children are struggling or not typically developing. In this episode of The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Denaye Barahona, Ph.D. We discuss our shared experience as moms coupled, with our expertise in supporting neurodiverse children. We consider the importance and gift of authentically accepting our kids as they truly are.
RLL #117: Encouraging Empathy In Our Gifted And Twice Exceptional Kids
5 maj 2021 |
31 min
Empathy is a word we emphasize a lot when it comes to our children's social and emotional development, but what does it really mean? Even more so, how can we encourage empathy in our gifted and twice exceptional children? In today's episode, Colleen and Shawna tackle the topic of empathy,
RLL #116: A Conversation With Dr. Meg Meeker About The Unique Needs Of Our Children
28 april 2021 |
48 min
This encouraging and informative conversation with Dr. Meg Meeker, is all about her expert perspective on meeting the individualized needs of our children. She is bit of a hero of mine, so I am thrilled to share this episode.
RLL#115: Does my gifted child really need a label?
21 april 2021 |
24 min
At some point most parents of gifted kids will ask, “Does my gifted child really need a label?” In this audioblog episode, Collen tackles this question and looks at the pros and cons of giving your gifted child the "label."
RLL#114: Supporting The Social and Emotional Needs Of Gifted And Twice-Exceptional Kids
14 april 2021 |
59 min
How do we best support the unique social and emotional needs of gifted and twice-exceptional kids? In today's episode, Emily Kircher-Morris of The Neurodiversity Podcast joins Colleen to discuss the specific, intense needs of our neurodiverse children and how we can best help.
RLL#113: The Powerful Relationship Between Confidence And Learning In Our Homeschools
7 april 2021 |
35 min
Homeschooling a gifted/2E child is often far more about helping our children develop confidence as learners than it is teaching any one subject. In this episode of The Raising Lifelong Learners Podcast, we talk about the relationship between confidence and learning, as well as some of the ways we can intentionally help our children in this area.
RLL#112: FAQ "How Do I Work With My Child's Doctor or Therapist?"
31 mars 2021 |
49 min
In this bonus episode, Colleen and Shawna answer a homeschooling mom's question about doctors, therapists, and homeschooling. What do we do when doctors don't support our decision to homeschool? How can we prepare for therapist visits and doctor appointments? When is it time to switch to a more homeschool friendly doctor?
RLL#111: Homeschool Graduate Turned Business Owner, Samantha Shank
24 mars 2021 |
50 min
Have you ever wanted to ask a homeschool graduate what they thought about their homeschool experience? Are you curious about what an adult life after homeschool looks like? Colleen gets all the answers from Samantha Shank, a brilliant homeschool graduate, highly successful business owner, and highly gifted, multi-talented individual.
RLL #110: Rethinking Achievement and Helping Kids Thrive At Home
17 mars 2021 |
11 min
Education and achievement doesn’t have to look like school, and it doesn’t have to follow a prescribed path. In this audio-blog episode, Colleen shares the reality of rethinking achievement and how homeschooling helps our gifted children thrive.
RLL #109: Homeschooling High School with Heather Woodie
10 mars 2021 |
48 min
Homeschooling high school, particularly when your child is gifted, has its own unique set of challenges and rewards. In this conversation with Heather Woodie, from Blog, She Wrote, Colleen explores the ins and outs of homeschooling gifted high schoolers. Encouragement, practical tips, and real examples you won't want to miss!
RLL #108: A Conversation About Self-Care with Shawna Wingert
3 mars 2021 |
36 min
Self-care has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years, and for good reason. As parents, we simply have to take care of ourselves in order to take care of our children. But what about our kids? How do we help them learn coping skills and emotional regulation? Join Colleen and Shawna as they discuss practical strategies for their own self-care and for their kiddos.
RLL #107: Learning as an Unschooling Family with Robyn Robertson
24 februari 2021 |
48 min
We are convinced homeschooling is the best way to educate our gifted and 2E kids, through self-directed learning and unschooling. This week, Colleen speaks with Robyn Robertson of Honey, I'm Homeschooling the Kids about unschooling. The conversation continues at https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/episode107
RLL #106: Young Gifted Children | Reflections from Parents
17 februari 2021 |
14 min
Research shows that parents are pretty accurate when identifying their young children as gifted. Today's episode is an audioblog of a post that first appeared on the website, where Colleen asked parents to think back to when their young children were infants or toddlers and share in their own words what traits and characteristics made them realize their child was gifted.
More over at the website, rll.bz/podcast
RLL #105: Parenting ADHD and Autism with Penny Williams
10 februari 2021 |
51 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Penny Williams of Parenting ADHD and Autism about how we really need to be okay with who our neurodiverse kiddos are and learn how to celebrate their differences. Parenting them takes intentionality. This is a terrific conversation to glean wisdom from two parents who have faced struggles that are common in parenting atypical kids.
RLL #104: A Conversation on Mindset with Shawna Wingert
3 februari 2021 |
40 min
Today, Colleen and Shawna Wingert have a conversation about mindset, specifically to help gifted and 2E families move away from rigid and inflexible thinking. They also discuss the incredible resources inside the RLL membership community, The Learner's Lab.
RLL #103: Entrepreneurial Mindset with Brian Weisfeld
27 januari 2021 |
41 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Brian Weisfeld, girls' entrepreneurship advocate and author of The Start Up Squad, about how encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset can be a key component to helping all kids, boys included, to develop important life skills, follow their passions, and reach their full potential.
RLL #102: A Conversation about Connection with Shawna Wingert
20 januari 2021 |
42 min
This week, Colleen has a conversation with Shawna Wingert about connection: how important it is to foster connection with your kids, encourage the relationships between siblings, and build a culture of connection as a family and as part of your community.
RLL #101: Project-Based Learning with Cindy West
13 januari 2021 |
55 min
Listen as we speak with Cindy West of Our Journey Westward about how she has used project-based learning to interest and excite in her homeschool, and her recommendations on how to get started on the path to this form of learning in your own home.
RLL #100: A Celebration of 100 Episodes
6 januari 2021 |
37 min
We're celebrating our 100th episode with favorite snippets and comments from the past 99 episodes, all related to our quirky, gifted, and/or 2e families.
RLL #99: Guest Host Shawna Wingert Reads from Raising Resilient Sons
16 december 2020 |
25 min
Today's episode is guest-hosted by Shawna Wingert of Different by Design Learning who shares the first chapter of Colleen's book Raising Resilient Sons: A Boy Mom's Guide to Building a Strong, Confident and Emotionally Intelligent Family.
RLL #98: Enjoying Literature with Kendra Fletcher
9 december 2020 |
51 min
In this podcast, Colleen speaks with Kendra Fletcher, long-time homeschooler and teacher of all things literature, on how enjoying the study of literature helps our kiddos to see it's importance for themselves and for humanity.
RLL #97: Empowering Kids Through Homeschool Buy-In
2 december 2020 |
48 min
In today's episode, Colleen shares an audioblog of a Facebook Live where she outlined how we can engage and empower our kiddos in their own learning.
RLL #96: Finding Learning Opportunities with Dennis DeNoia
25 november 2020 |
43 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Dennis DeNoia how giving his kids the freedom to pursue their interests has helped them be better learners.
RLL #95: [Audioblog] When the World Overwhelms Your Anxious Child | How You Can Help
18 november 2020 |
21 min
Today, Colleen shares an audioblog - an article by Jen Vail from the website - with ideas on helping when the world overwhelms your child.
RLL #94: The Importance of Music with Jessica Peresta
11 november 2020 |
46 min
In today's episode, Colleen speaks with Jessica Peresta about the importance of music in our families and in educating our quirky kids.
RLL #93: 7 Tips and Strategies for Boosting Emotional Resilience in Your Kids
4 november 2020 |
46 min
Listen today as Colleen offers 7 tips and strategies for boosting emotional resilience in kids, and learn how to help them adapt to overcome challenges.
RLL #92: Building Self and Setting Goals with Suki Wessling
28 oktober 2020 |
42 min
In this episode, Colleen speaks with Suki Wessling, homeschooling parent, writer, musician and online instructor at Athena Academy about helping our kids to learn to set goals and flourish as authentic individuals in lives of their own design.
RLL #91: [Audioblog] How to Help Your Kids Thrive When They Are Stuck Inside
21 oktober 2020 |
17 min
Every family can use some help finding activities, especially those that help our kids to flouish! Listen today as Colleen shares an audioblog — an article by Jennifer Vail that first appeared on the site — stock full of ideas to help your kids thrive when they are stuck inside.
RLL #90: Cultivating Creative Writers with Celeste Davidson
14 oktober 2020 |
39 min
In this episode, Colleen speaks with Celeste Davidson, author and professional writer-educator of Bardsy, a unique virtual community where supportive members gather to enjoy, create and share stories while also gaining access to interactive courses and tools to build their writing skills.
RLL #89: Helping Our Gifted Kids With Social and Emotional Struggles
7 oktober 2020 |
42 min
Today, Colleen discusses some of the specific social and emotional needs our gifted kiddos may have and how we can help and nurture them through these struggles.
RLL #88: Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted Kids with Jim Delisle
30 september 2020 |
49 min
In today's episode, Colleen speaks with her mentor, Dr. Jim Delisle, about the social and emotional needs of gifted children.
RLL #87: 100 Hints That Your Child Might Be Gifted
23 september 2020 |
17 min
An audioblog of a post originally published on the website by community manager Jen Vail on 100 hints that your child might be gifted.
RLL #86: All About Anxiety with Dr. Dan Peters
16 september 2020 |
47 min
In this episode, Colleen speaks about anxiety with Dr. Dan Peters, psychologist, author, and a leading expert on gifted families.
RLL #85: Homeschooling Plans for 2020/2021
9 september 2020 |
45 min
Today, Colleen shares her plans and favorite resources for the 2020/2021 homeschooling year to motivate her four, mostly interest-led, kids.
RLL #84: Exploring Education and Executive Function with Seth Perler
2 september 2020 |
48 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Seth Perler, executive function coach, educator, and vlogger who genuinely cares about seeing outside-the-box kids succeed.
RLL #83: [Audioblog] Socialization and Your Gifted or Intense Child
26 augusti 2020 |
17 min
Today, listen as Colleen shares an audioblog — an article that first appeared on the site — detailing how we can help our kiddos with socialization.
RLL #82: Celebrating Books with Mary Wilson
19 augusti 2020 |
48 min
Today, Colleen chats with Mary Wilson about “found” poetry, book/movie matchups and the adventures possible with book clubs that will bring whimsy and delight to readers of all ages and ability!
RLL #81: [Audioblog] Managing Perfectionism: 10 Tips for Helping Your Child
12 augusti 2020 |
18 min
In this episode, Colleen gives a picture of what perfectionism looks like with gifted kids, what the effect can be on them and offers ten practical tips to help your child manage perfectionism, even in the areas they naturally excel in.
RLL #80: Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School? with Blake Boles
5 augusti 2020 |
43 min
In today's episode, Colleen speaks with Blake Boles, author of "Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School?' about self-driven learning for our kids.
RLL #79: [Audioblog] Mislabeled Behavior And Undiagnosed Giftedness
29 juli 2020 |
15 min
Today, Colleen shares an audioblog written by Jennifer Vail, who details her family's struggle to understand the cause of their son's baffling behavior.
RLL #78: College For All with Trent Thompson
22 juli 2020 |
62 min
Colleen speaks with Trent Thompson on how College For All can help students earn college credit towards bachelor's degrees while still in high school.
RLL #77: Asynchronous Development in Gifted Children
15 juli 2020 |
17 min
Today, Colleen shares an audioblog — an article that first appeared on the site — written by Cait Curley on parenting the asynchronous gifted child.
RLL #76: Creating the Adventurous Family with Rachel Rainbolt
8 juli 2020 |
44 min
Colleen explores gentle parenting, natural homeschooling, simple living, "adventuring" and more with Rachel Rainbolt of Sage Parenting.
RLL #75: [Audioblog] Dear Tired Mama of Gifted Kids
1 juli 2020 |
11 min
Today, Colleen shares an audioblog - an article that first appeared on the site - to encourage you that you are NOT alone, tired mama of gifted kids.
RLL #74: Solving the Transcript Problem with Maya & Nina Serna
24 juni 2020 |
43 min
In this episode, Colleen meets Maya & Nina Serna who have developed the mobile app, Homieschooler, to make record keeping simpler and transcripts easier to generate. Listen in to hear about these highly motivated teens and the tool they created that makes self-directed learning easier to track.
RLL #73: [Audioblog] Falling Unexpectedly In Love with Homeschooling My Gifted Child
17 juni 2020 |
16 min
In today’s episode, Colleen shares an audioblog — an article that first appeared on the site — written by contributor and community manager, Jennifer Vail. She details how she came into homeschooling under duress but as a result, found a true, loving adventure with her quirky son.
RLL #72: Profoundly Gifted Kids and Radical Acceleration with Michelle and Elliott Tanner
10 juni 2020 |
55 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Michelle Tanner and her profoundly gifted son, Elliott, about the wonderful journey they’ve taken to radically accelerate Elliott to college at the tender age of 11.
RLL #71: Resiliency and Why Our Kids Need It
3 juni 2020 |
29 min
Listen as Colleen explains what resiliency is, how it can be nurtured in our kids and how we should work towards more of it for healthier families.
RLL #70: More Than Enough with Kara Anderson
27 maj 2020 |
50 min
In today's podcast, Colleen speaks with Kara Anderson, author of More Than Enough: Grow Your Confidence, Banish Burnout and Love Your Homeschool Life. You'll find that these two friends have a lot to say about how you aren’t alone and there are plenty of ways to feel stronger and more encouraged.
RLL #69: [Audioblog] Seven Tools for Peaceful Parenting that You Can Use Today
20 maj 2020 |
13 min
Parenting is tough. No matter how rock-solid your discipline strategies are, you probably lose your temper and yell from time to time. Even the most well-meaning of parents may find themselves yelling at their kiddos in a moment of angry frustration.
In today’s episode, Colleen shares an audioblog — an article that first appeared on the site — offering some of her favorite tools and tips for peaceful parenting.
RLL 68: Self-Directed Education with Peter Gray, PhD
13 maj 2020 |
78 min
Today, Colleen speaks with Peter Gray, PhD and author of “Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life.” Peter and Colleen discuss his journey to understanding how self-directed learning is a most successful model of education, empowering kids to take ownership of their learning from young ages.
RLL 67: Ideas for Nurturing Our Kids' Strengths
6 maj 2020 |
47 min
Research shows that when we encourage our learners to pursue their interests and utilize their strengths in their learning, we can also see gains in areas that they aren't as strong in. Colleen dives a little deeper into understanding what strength based learning is and how there are simple, practical steps we can take to nurture our kids’ strengths.
RLL #66: Strength Based Learning With Differently-Wired Kids
29 april 2020 |
66 min
In today’s podcast, Colleen talks with Shawna Wingert of Different By Design Learning about taking a strength-based approach and using it in our homeschooling in a way that encourages and empowers our differently-wired kiddos in their learning.
RLL #65: Navigating Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted Kids
22 april 2020 |
9 min
Gifted children have characteristics that can often cause them to struggle socially and emotionally. In today’s episode, Colleen shares an audioblog — an article that first appeared on the site — outlining some common challenges facing gifted kids and offering real guidance to help you help your child manage his or her emotions.
RLL #64 What To Do When School Doesn't Work
15 april 2020 |
28 min
School choice is extremely personal. It really comes down to what are you most comfortable with, what can you afford and what kinds of sacrifices are you willing to make with regards to this decision for educating your differently-wired kiddos.
In today’s solocast, Colleen discusses the different options to best meet your children’s needs when school just doesn’t work.
RLL #63: Creating a Business with Kids with Sara Tullos
8 april 2020 |
42 min
Today, we talk with Sara Tullos about the genesis of her "My Zoo Box" subscription box and how she meets the needs of her inquisitive and quirky five year old by homeschooling.
RLL#62: Why Should You Homeschool Your Gifted Child?
1 april 2020 |
12 min
The longer I homeschool my gifted children, and the more I see and talk to other parents of gifted and twice-exceptional kids, the more I believe that homeschooling is the best educational option for our nation’s above-average children.
In today's episode, Colleen shares an audioblog -- an article that first appeared on the site. She makes a strong case for how best to meet our gifted children's needs while spelling out the very real benefits of homeschooling.
RLL #61: Let's Talk About Anxiety
25 mars 2020 |
29 min
While this podcast episode was recorded before all the COVID-19 stuff hit, and things were relatively normal, I felt it important to share it with you. In this episode I talk about five simple things you can do with your anxious kiddos to help them right now. Right now, anxieties are high.
Kids are worrying.
Adults are worrying.
We're all kind of in this big ole anxiety boat together. We could really use some solidarity and support right now.
RLL#60: Raising Differently-Wired Kids with Debbie Reber
11 mars 2020 |
39 min
Differently-wired kiddos require a major shift in parenting philosophies and practices, and today's guest is no stranger to shaking things up. Debbie Reber, founder of the Tilt Parenting podcast and author of Differently-Wired: Rasing an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World, has a lot to say about bringing up neurodiverse kiddos. Join Colleen and Debbie as they talk school choices, parenting shifts, and the news of the brand-new paperback version of Differently-Wired in bookstores everywhere!
RLL #59: [Audioblog] Gifted Kids Are Gonna Gift
26 februari 2020 |
13 min
I laugh, I shrug, I shake my head. My kids are gifted, and sometimes they're just gonna gift. It's time that we stop apologizing for it...
In today's episode, Colleen shares an audioblog -- an article that first appeared on the site. Written by contributor Jen Vail, this audioblog uses humor to help parents appreciate their quirky kids for exactly who they are.
RLL #58: Why You Should Check Out a Homeschooling Convention This Year
12 februari 2020 |
15 min
Are you planning to come out to a homeschool convention this season? Colleen will be speaking at all seven of the Great Homeschool Conventions and several others as well -- you can find her entire calendar on her speaking page. In this episode, though, she chats about why you should consider attending as a homeschool parent of a differently-wired kiddo.
There are opportunities to check out curriculum, talk to experts in all subject areas, be inspired by different tyes of speakers, and enjoy special events like the Real Mom Tour she, Pam Barnhill, and Sarah MacKenzie are hosting at each GHC event! Make sure you leave a comment or a voice mail to let her know which event you'll be at -- she can't wait to meet you!
RLL #57: Protecting Our Kids From Porn with Kristen Jenson
5 februari 2020 |
49 min
Today, Colleen talks to Kristen Jenson, author of Good Pictures Bad Pictures: Porn-Proofing Today's Young Kids and founder of Protect Young Minds. This conversation dives deeply into what porn does to the brain, how it contributes to addiction, and how we can protect our differently-wired kiddos who often need more than just a "don't do it" to convince them that our advice might be worth following. This is an episode you don't want to miss.
RLL #56: [Audioblog] Discipline and Your Intense Child
29 januari 2020 |
13 min
Do you feel like all you ever do is yell at and correct your intense child? That for every time you praise him, you’ve already berated him 15 times? And, are you completely exhausted before you’ve finished your first cup of coffee?
Yeah… me too.
This audioblog shares tips for helping you work with your intense child to have them get on board with family rules and structures so you can all have the peace you crave.
RLL #55: Managing Your Childs Perfectionism
22 januari 2020 |
34 min
So many gifted and twice-exceptional kiddos struggle with perfectionism, and untreated perfectionism can lead to other problems like low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and even eating disorders. Finding ways to talk to your kiddos is important, and keeping the conversation going can help them feel comfortable opening up when they're having a problem. In today's episode, Colleen gives you tips for talking your kiddo through perfectionism and helping them move past it. There are plenty of additional resources below to help you continue working with your kiddo.
RLL #54: Real Talk -- Homeschooling Through Tough Times
27 november 2019 |
42 min
Let's face it -- homeschooling differently-wired kiddos is challenging. Parenting them is challenging. But, when life hits you from all sides, and you have highly emotional, anxiety-filled, and otherwise differently-wired kids to parent through it, you're going to be lucky to get dinner on the table some days, let alone get any homeschooling done.
And, will they really learn anything anyway when their lives are uncertain, family is sick, there's a death or a move to deal with? Probably not.
So what do you do?
Colleen sits down and chats real life in this episode as she's been parenting and homeschooling her four quirky kiddos through a lot of life stuff lately, and has a few insights. She's not going to solve all your problems, but you'll walk away from this episode knowing that you're not the only one who gets hit by too much stuff at once, and that you will get through it.
RLL #53: A Magical Homeschool with Jessica Waldock
14 november 2019 |
55 min
Parenting and homeschooling a differently-wired kiddo is tough. When you're homeschooling a gifted only child, it can be exhausting. You need to stay a few steps ahead of your kiddo as you're the only one they've got to play with, learn from, and do things with.
Jessica Waldock chats with Colleen today about the ways she brings delight and interest-led learning into the homeschooling she does with her super-adorable gifted only child. Emily even pops in to tell us what she loves to learn about. This is an inspiring episode with loadds of practical and actionable things you can implement in your homeschool right now -- even if you have more than one gifted or otherwise quirky kiddos of your own.
RLL #52: Overcoming Perfectionism and Finding Joy in Homeschooling
2 oktober 2019 |
21 min
How do YOU fight back against perfectionism and recapture the joy of the homeschool you dreamed about? In this episode, Colleen tackles a listener question related to this topic and offers some practical tips for keeping the joy and fun alive.
RLL #51: [Audioblog] Helping Your Child Cope with Anxiety
11 september 2019 |
9 min
I’m willing to bet that every person reading this has experienced anxiety, depression, or stress at one point or another in their life.
And I’m willing to bet that it wasn’t a pleasant experience.
For as many as one in eight children, though, anxiety is a daily struggle.
Today's episode is an audioblog -- a popular post about an important topic brought to you in audio format so that you can listen on the go. Pop over to the post itself to leave comments or questions.
RLL #50: Homeschooling a PG Kiddo from a Teacher's Perspective with Mariel Howsepian
4 september 2019 |
58 min
Think all teachers are against homeschooling? That's actually pretty far from the truth -- I've met many current and former teachers who have chosen to homeschool their kiddos just like today's guest.
Mariel Howsepian and her husband Pete are lifelong learners living in Southern California where they homeschool their profoundly gifted daughter. Pete's held many different jobs throughout the years, but now he adventures with their daughter during the day while Mariel works as a public school teacher. In the evenings, she picks up the lifelong learning gauntlet and jumps in to learn right alongside their daughter.
RLL #49: Reflections on Anxiety
22 augusti 2019 |
34 min
Over the years, Colleen has talked extensively about her youngest daughter's struggle with anxiety, and so has her daughter. Today, Sara writes in with a great question, prompting Colleen to reflect on the earlier years in their anxiety journey. Listen to find out what she'd change, if anything.
And, if you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment, send an email, or leave a voice mail message below. Your question might be the next one featured on the show.
Show notes for this episode: Episode 49
RLL #48: [Audioblog] What is an Intense Child?
29 maj 2019 |
11 min
If you have an intense child, you probably know it. Call them spirited, emotionally intense, difficult, high needs, or challenging…it doesn’t matter.
You know them and you’re tired. And defeated. And sure you're doing everything all wrong because those parenting books other parents swear by just don’t work for you.
The intense child is more – more emotional, more energetic, more sensitive, more empathetic, more focused, more distracted, more, more, more – than other children.
Read or Listen at: https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/what-is-an-intense-child/
RLL #47: The Introverted Homeschool Mom with Jamie C Martin
8 maj 2019 |
50 min
Are you an introvert? Guess what?! You're not alone! Today's guest, Jamie Martin, is the brilliant mama behind the website Simple Homeschool and has just released a new book called The Introverted Mom: Your Guide to More Calm, Less Guilt, and Quiet Joy and we're talking all about the beauty to be found in introversion, how and when to step out of one's comfort zone, and the freedom that homeschooling brings to introverts. You'll love this episode -- I hope it brings you encouragement.
RLL #46: Homeschooling Quirky Kids with Cynthia Heren
1 maj 2019 |
65 min
Cynthia Heren joins Colleen today to talk about what it's like in the trenches homeschooling differently-wired kiddos. She gives us a peek into her schedule, the rabbit holes her family dives down, and how they incorporate online learning and Minecraft (yes, Minecraft) into their days.
RLL #45: Homeschooling Special Needs Kiddos with Faith Berens
17 april 2019 |
64 min
Are you homeschooling a kiddo with special needs? You're not alone. It can be a challenging adventure, for sure, but today's guest, Faith Berens, has some wonderful insight and tips for parents who are homeschooling their special needs kids.
RLL #44: Rooted Childhood with Meghann Dibrell
10 april 2019 |
61 min
If you scroll through your Instagram feed and wish for slower, more meaningful days, or dream of better connections with your kids like those gorgeous images, this is the episode for you.
Meghann Dibrell talks to us about cultivating a rooted childhood for your kids, and her work to help you make that happen. As usual, the conversation on the show takes detours down a few rabbit trails, and Meghann and Colleen end up talking a bit about her daughter's anxiety and the ways hidden disabilities like it can impact a childhood. You don't want to miss this.
RLL #43: Getting Your Kids Outside with Justin Wren
19 februari 2019 |
45 min
Sometimes it seems difficult to get our kids outside when all they want to do is lounge around inside the house. But, studies show that time outside increases creativity and cognitive functions, so it's important to get kids outside as much as we can. Today Colleen talks with Justin Wren, one of the founders of Think Outside Boxes, a subscription box that gets kids outside and engaging in nature in cool ways.
RLL #42: What It's Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella
12 februari 2019 |
37 min
Ever wonder what your homeschooling kiddos really think about this life? Today, Colleen talks to her daughter Molly and best friend Ella all about what it's like for these 10 and 11 year olds to homeschool, what kinds of things they're involved in, and what their thoughts are about how other people view homeschoolers and what they're missing out on by not being in a school. This was a fun one -- it's alway a blast to hear what kids are thinking, and these two girls are an absolute delight! Got questions or a message for Colleen or today's guest? Leave a voice mail message right here on the show notes page! We can't wait to hear from you!
RLL #41: Homeschooling "Fringy Kids" with Heather Boorman
5 februari 2019 |
72 min
Raising kids "on the fringes," or gifted, 2e, etc can be isolating and confusing. Therapist and author Heather Boorman joins Colleen on today's episode to talk about how helping kids see their differences can help them be the amazing people they're meant to be. Her 13yo son joins the conversation too, giving some great advice to help teens who feel isolated find friends with similar interests.
RLL #40: Self-Directed Homeschooling High School with Trevor Kessler
29 januari 2019 |
52 min
There are so many homeschooling moms that start to worry as their kids get into middle school and high school that what they've done up until this point isn't enough. Or that they're missing big pieces of learning, content, or skills that they should have been teaching all along.
Today, Colleen talks with her sixteen year old son, Trevor, about some of his experiences so far, and gets his insights about homeschooling, self directed education, hope, and more. You're not going to want to miss this episode, particularly if you've got budding high schoolers of your own!
RLL #39: Trusting Your Childs Lead with Sara Hall
22 januari 2019 |
51 min
It can be scary to homeschool an outside-the-box learner. Differently-wired kids beat to the tune of their own drummers, and that can be problematic when we go into it with a set expectation for how things will be. It is hard to trust our kids AND ourselves with this totally alternate path to education... In today's conversation, Colleen and Sara Hall chat about just that.
How it's not our job to fit our kids into a box. It's our job to help them see how amazing their out-of-the box thinking truly is.
RLL #38: Happy New Year -- News and Updates!
15 januari 2019 |
32 min
It's a new year and I don't know about you, but I'm ready to tackle it head on and enjoy my kiddos and our new puppy, all while making this podcast and site the place where you can find all you need to help you parent and homeschool those differently wired kiddos amazingly.
In today's episode, we'll talk about some new formatting, new features, and you'll get a preview of things to come. I can't wait to share it all with you and to hear your feedback!
RLL #37: Finishing Strong with Connie Albers
11 december 2018 |
64 min
Ever worry that you're not going to be able to do this homeschool thing all the way through high school? Me too. Colleen is talking today with Connie Albers -- homeschool mom of five adult children. All of those kiddos have homeschooled, gone through college at a major university, and are now doing great things. You're not going to want to miss this inspirational chat. It will encourage you as you look towards the long term in this homeschooling gig.
RLL #35: What This Homeschool Mom Doesn't Do
4 december 2018 |
38 min
People ask often how I do it all. I try to tell them that I simply don't -- that there are balls I drop regularly, but I'm not sure they completely believe me. In today's episode, I tell you all the things I don't do. The home and homeschool balls that get dropped. Above all, friends, remember that you're not alone and that you are doing an amazing job.
RLL #34: Cultivating Critical Thinkers with Ginny Kochis
20 november 2018 |
55 min
We really want to encourage critical and creative thinking in our kids -- especially with so many things going on in the world that require us to think clearly and make informed decisions. Ginny Kochis has some great tips for developing these skills without adding something new to our already full homeschool parenting plates. Check it out, and let me know how YOU teach critical thinking in your home and homeschool. You can leave a comment below or send a voice message. I'll share more tips as you share.
RLL #33: The Holidays and Your Differently-Wired Child
13 november 2018 |
31 min
The holidays are coming and I know -- if you're like me -- that you're gearing up and trying to figure out how to make it happy, fun, and successful for all your kids, you, and the rest of your extended family. In this chat, I'll share some of my thoughts about navigating the holidays with your differently-wired kiddos, and simple tricks you can do to make it great (or at least bearable) for all.
RLL #32: Raising Bilingual Kids with Anne Guarnera
30 oktober 2018 |
49 min
Raising globally minded kids in today's world is important as the world grows closer and more connected. Today Colleen talks with Anne Guarnera about bringing language and cultural learning into the home and homeschool effortlessly, and what it's like living the adventure of a bilingual family.
RLL #29: Should I Test My Child for Giftedness? | A Listener Question
16 oktober 2018 |
27 min
The testing question... it comes up often in conversation and consults, but as a listener asked again recently, Colleen thought it worth revisiting in a podcast episode. Testing your child for giftedness is a personal choice and everyone has different reasons for why they chose to test... or not to test. What should you do? Well... let's talk about it.
RLL #30: Being Students of Our Children with Andrew Peterson
9 oktober 2018 |
57 min
Amazing things can happen when we trust our children, become students of them and their interests, and encourage them to follow those passions. In this episode, Colleen talks to Andrew Peterson -- Christian music artist, author, speaker, and Founder of The Rabbit Room, a community of like-minded people celebrating a love of the arts together -- all about helping our kids follow their loves and develop their talents, even when they don't fall into the easily-measured subject areas, and how trusting our kids can really shape who they become. You don't want to miss this episode.
RLL #29: Giving Your Kids the Attention They Each Need | A Listener Question
2 oktober 2018 |
22 min
Sometimes it's a challenge to give each of your kiddos the attention they need individually when you're raising more than one. When one or more of those kids has special needs or demands more attention than others, though, it can feel impossible to give each of your children what they need. Colleen talks a little about this today in answer to a listener question.
RLL #28: Using Books to Make Learning Come to Life with Sarita Holzmann
25 september 2018 |
46 min
Books can be a great way to get kids excited about learning. GREAT literature can go even further and make learning come alive for the whole family. Today, Colleen talks to Sarita Holzmann, founder of the Sonlight Curriculum all about using books to ignite a love of learning in kids of all ages. This episode is chock-full of wonderful resources. You won't want to miss it!
RLL 27: Challenging Gifted Kids vs. Pushing Them
18 september 2018 |
31 min
Parents of gifted kiddos often worry whether they're challenging their kids enough or pushing them too hard.
In this episode we examine the difference between pushing and appropriately challenging our kids, while acknowledging that those who aren't raising gifted kids won't understand, and just might accuse us of "hothousing" them -- making them into "super kids" so that they look gifted, dismissing the very nature that makes our quirky and briliant kids who they are despite us.
RLL #26: Cooking with Kids with Tiffany Dahle
11 september 2018 |
52 min
There are so many wonderful benefits to getting kids in the kitchen early on, but have you ever thought about cooking as a way to build confidence and combat perfectionism? Really! Today, Colleen talks to Tiffany Dahle, author of The Ultimate Kids' Cookbook, and founder of peanutblossom.com about empowering kids through cooking... among other things. This is not one to miss -- especially if you love cooking with kids!
RLL #25: Fall Plans for Eclectic Homeschooling
4 september 2018 |
43 min
It's back to school time, and all over the internet -- in your Instagram feeds, on your favorite bloggers' sites, and on Facebook -- you're faced with a peek into what everyone's doing to get ready for back to school. And, while I always hesitate to share what we've got going on because it changes so rapidly, I'm asked again and again... so I'm sharing a glimpse into our current plans with you today.
I hope you'll find some inspiration and maybe some new resources, but remember that the only expert on your homeschool is YOU. What works for you is RIGHT for you, and you don't have to do everything someone else is doing. Let this be inspiration and permission to take what you need and make it yours.
Let's do this, friend. Together.
RLL #24: Asynchrony, Intensity, and Motivation | A Listener Question
31 juli 2018 |
31 min
Today, Tiffany asks about asynchronous development in gifted kiddos, how to help manage intensity, and tips for motivating gifted kids. It's a jam-packed half hour and there are loads of resources to sift through in the show notes. You're going to need time to digest this one, so grab a cold drink or cup of coffee and settle in for this Q&A.
RLL #23: Trusting Your Kids with Homeschool Graduate Mahayla West
24 juli 2018 |
57 min
It's so easy for homeschool moms to doubt. We're in the thick of things, right? Doing it all... worrying about it all... and not able to see what will happen on the other side. There are no guarantees in parenting, nor are there in homeschooling. BUT, there are so many amazing kiddos who have gone through years of homeschooling, and not only come out on that other side, but are thriving there. Today we talk to Mahayla West, homeschool graduate, and fantastic young adult, who reminds us to trust our kids and trust this process. We can get through it and enjoy the adventure alongside our children.
RLL #22: Finding a Co-op and Creating Killer Classes | A Listener Question
17 juli 2018 |
32 min
As homeschooling parents of outliers, we sometimes feel isolated, and co-ops can fill a need for both our children and ourselves. In this episode, Colleen tackles a question about creating an amazing co-op class from listener, Wendy, but also dives into the different types of co-ops and reasons for joining one. If you've ever thought about finding a group for your kids to belong to, and then creating classes that can meet a variety of abilities within that co-op, this is the episode for you!
RLL #21: Embracing Autism with Kaylene George
10 juli 2018 |
57 min
"Autism is NOT the Big Bad Wolf... Your child is going to have joy. Your child is going to have a life..." This inspiring episode challenges all of us to rethink autism and how we interact with autistic friends and family members. Kaylene George is an autism self-advocate, and an amazing mama to a slew of neuro-diverse kiddos. You don't want to miss this episode...
RLL #20: Helping Your Kiddo with Executive Function Skills Struggles | A Listener Question
3 juli 2018 |
31 min
Gifted and creative kiddos can often struggle with their executive function skills, and we parents are left scratching our heads, and trying to figure out how to get them to be functioning adults who can manage their own lives. In this episode we'll talk about what executive function skills are, how they're important, and what happens when kids struggle with these skills. Then, we'll chat about what you can do to help your kiddos out. Grab a cold drink and join the conversation.
RLL #19: Using Astronomy to Foster an Integrative Approach to Learning with Luke Gilkerson
26 juni 2018 |
63 min
Science -- particularly the study of astronomy -- can be a great way to integrate your kiddos' subjects so that they're incorporating many different areas like literature, writing, and the content areas in one fell swoop. A deep dive into an area for an extended period of time. Today, Colleen talks with Luke Gilkerson about how his program does just that... uses his passion for astronomy to bring kids along on a journey that incorporates many subject areas altogether for deep and rich learning.
RLL #18: How to Lure the Kids Away From Screens | A Listener Question
19 juni 2018 |
34 min
Cristy asks how lure her kiddo away from the screens -- her sweet daughter just wants to play video games. This is a challenging question that comes up in homeschool circles often. Colleen tackles it from a few different perspectives. What about you? Do you limit screen use in your home? Why or why not?
RLL #17: Building on Your Child's Strengths with Shawna Wingert
12 juni 2018 |
66 min
Homeschooling special needs children can be really tough. When your child has several special needs and is very asynchronous, too, things get even more challenging. One of our absolute favorite moms of special needs kids is Shawna Wingert from Not the Former Things. She blogs honestly and empowers other moms of special needs kiddos to tackle each new day with renewed strength and the knowledge that they're not alone. She's walking right alongside of them. Join Colleen and Shawna today as they talk about building on their asynchronous kiddos' strengths to help them tackle their weaknesses. It's a longer episode today, but so, so worth hanging in for.
RLL #16: Homeschooling Gifted Kids on a Budget | A Listener Question
5 juni 2018 |
33 min
Maleeha is concerned. Following a student-led, self-directed model of homeschooling can definitely add up, cost-wise, and when you're homeschooling insatiable gifted learners, it can be even more costly. These kids seem to eat programs and materials for breakfast.
So, how can a parent get kids iinvolved in their own learning, and fostering their curiosity, all without breaking the budget? Colleen offers some suggestions today.
RLL #15: Calming Chaos and Raising Superkids with Dayna Abraham
29 maj 2018 |
46 min
Whether you homeschool your quirky kiddo, send him or her to school, or change it up depending on the year and the situation, you're doing exactly what you need to do for your child when he or she needs it most. In today's episode, Colleen talks to Dayna Abraham all about the chaos of raising differently-wired kids, and helping them channel those challenges for good and begin to see themselves as "superkids." Afterwards, you get to reconnect with Colleen's son, Trevor, and see what he's been up to. Grab a beverage and put your feet up, you're not going to want to miss this one...
RLL #14: What if I Fall Behind | A Listener Question
22 maj 2018 |
31 min
Connie worries that her kids will fall behind if they follow an unconventional homeschooling schedule. Her family finds themselves out of the house several days a week, and they're all exhausted by the time they get home. Is it possible to make a three-day homeschool work? I share my thoughts in today’s episode, but would love to hear yours, too. Scroll down to the comments section and tell us what YOU think about unusual schedules! We’re all better together.
RLL #13: Homeschooling, Finding Joy, and ADHD with Misty Bailey
15 maj 2018 |
49 min
Parenting and homeschooling differently-wired kids can be a challenge, and it's even harder when faced with choices about medication, therapies, and following one's parenting gut. In this episode, Misty and Colleen talk about homeschooling, finding the great moments, and about the tough choice to medicate or not. You'll hear two very different experiences with meds and, hopefully, will be reassured that it's a personal decision, and what's right for one isn't always right for another. You're doing a great job parenting your differently-wired kids -- remember that and trust yourself.
RLL #12: What About Relaxed & Interest-Led Homeschooling for Gifted Kids? | A Listener Question
8 maj 2018 |
26 min
Angie worries that she's not doing enought to challenge her gifted kids because of something a well-meaning pedatrician said to her at a well-visit. Her family enjoys a relaxed and interest-driven, self-directed type of homeschool environment, but she's concerned that it's not enough for the kids and that her doctor is right -- that they'll struggle with underachievement and problem behaviors as they grow.
I share my thoughts in today's episode, but would love to hear yours, too. Head over to the shownotes page at the site: RaisingLifelongLearners.com/episode12 and tell us what YOU think about self-directed learning in the comments! We're all better together.
RLL #11: Doing Things for YOU... Even if it Means a Cleaning Challenge with Kara Anderson
1 maj 2018 |
59 min
Conversations with friends who get you, understand (and still love) your quirky kids, and are honest and real are so important in life -- especially when you're homeschooling. Chatting with Kara Anderson is always a chance to be loved for who you are. She's real, down-to-Earth, frank, funny, and such a joy. In this conversation we talk quirky kids, taking time for oneself, being our kids' person, and spring cleaning. Grab a cup of tea and settle in... you're going to love this episode.
RLL #10: Building Connections Through Books with Sarah MacKenzie
27 mars 2018 |
58 min
Want to make the most out of your parenting -- in just ten minutes a day? Listen in to find out the super (not so) secret way Sarah MacKenzie connects with her kids, builds meaningful relationships with all six(!) of them, and cultivates a passionate love of learning through books. The power of a great book cannot be underestimated and this deceptively simple action may be just what your family needs to turn things around and form those lasting bonds and shared memories you hope bring your kiddos home long after they've flown the nest. Tune in to this fun episode and listen in on a conversation between friends, and then listen to the sweetest future-published-author fourteen year old talk about her love of books too.
RLL #09: Better Together with Pam Barnhill
13 mars 2018 |
52 min
Strengthening your family, simplifying your homeschool, and savoring the subjects that matter most is a piece of cake when you take a moment to soak in the wisdom of today's guest, my friend Pam Barnhill. She has a knack for putting things into perspective and easing the tension homeschool mamas feel when faced with the overwhelm that doing all the things often brings. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and pop n your earbuds -- you're in for a treat.
RLL #08: Following Their Joy with Melissa
27 februari 2018 |
48 min
Raising creative, loving, and inquisitive kids is a goal of mine, and so many other parents out there -- homeschooling, afterschooling, traditionally schooling, and everything in between. Today I'm talking to Melissa, a friend from the interwebs, about herself, her beautifully-wired family, and following the joy in life. I hope you'll join us and be inspired too...
RLL #07: Homeschooling and Learning Well with Alicia Hutchinson
13 februari 2018 |
42 min
Simple ideas + Easy routines = Homeschooling with confidence... That's the philosophy behind the beautiful community that is Learning Well with Alicia Hutchinson. In this episode, Alicia and I talk about the beauty of an ever-evolving homeschool life and that all homeschools should look different from one another. The beauty of homeschooling is in the uniqueness. Join us and be inspired...
RLL #06: Cultivating Creativity Through New Stories with an Old Soul with S.D. Smith
30 januari 2018 |
68 min
Author of the fantastically popular series The Green Ember, S. D. Smith is here today to talk about honesty in storytelling, how igniting your own learning helps keep your tank filled as you homeschool and ecourage creativity and learning in your kiddos, and what it means to creatively engage thousands of readers around the world through his new stories with an old soul. You're going to be so inspired by this episode! Listen all the way through and visit the show notes for a chance to win signed copies of all FOUR of this amazing author's current books. (giveaway ends 2/9/18 -- open to U.S. residents only)
RLL #05: Roadtripping and Following the Child with Aurie Good
19 januari 2018 |
48 min
Homeschooling foster and adoptive mama, Aurie Good, is here today to talk with us about all the ways she follows her kiddos' lead and balances the structure of a program like Classical Conversations with a more free-flowing, child-led approach to learning. We'll also talk about how she's taking homeschool on the road for an epic three and a half week roadtrip with five young kids! You're not going to want to miss this one!
RLL #04: Keeping Things Fun While On-the-Go with Amy Milcic
14 januari 2018 |
25 min
Keeping up with homeschooling, parenting, and all that goeas into keeping a family going is tough enough when you're home all the time. For Amy Milcic and her crew, they're (more often than not) out and on the go at tournaments and other travel sports events. In this episode, we'll chat about how she manages to keep her five boys motivated to learn and have fun, while they run around and keep up with busy sports schedules.
RLL #03: Keeping Up With a Profoundly Gifted Kiddo with Gina Munsey
14 januari 2018 |
33 min
Do you ever feel like you're barely keeping up with your child's learning? Like you could keep throwing materials, supplies, and activities at him or her all day long, and it would never be enough? That's what it feels like to be raising an insatiable learner like a profoundly gited kiddo. As today's guest, Gina Munsey describes it, it's like being stapled to a cheetah.
RLL #02: Diving Down Rabbit Holes and Following Kids Interests with Caitlin Curley
14 januari 2018 |
31 min
Diving down rabbit holes with your kiddos can lead to some pretty amazing learning and fun adventures. In this epsiode, Cait Curley shares some of the ways she embraces learning adventures with her kids, and how she cultivates their curiosity while buildng a family culture around a lifelong love of learning.
RLL #01: What Does it Mean to be a Lifelong Learner?
14 januari 2018 |
30 min
What does it even mean to be a lifelong learner? How do we, as parents, cultivate a love of learning and curiosity in our kids? In this -- the inaugural episode of the Raising Lifelong Learners podcast -- we'll chat about exactly that, and you'll hear from the little learners themselves.
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En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.