#156: I Tried to Recreate School at Home… Everyone Cried (This Fixed It)

A former public school teacher never planned to homeschool — until COVID forced a hard reset. In this episode, Cheryl talks with Janae Daniels from the School to Homeschool Podcast about the moment everything changed: the “magical” 2020 shutdown, the surprising nudge to homeschool, and the first day that completely fell apart… until a piano tuner accidentally delivered the best real-life science lesson her kids had ever experienced.Janae shares what deschooling actually looks like (and why it’s harder for parents than kids), how she stopped trying to replicate school at home, and what happened when her children finally had room for boredom, curiosity, and real learning: guitar skills built through YouTube lessons, reading for meaning (not grades), embroidery that turned into paid work, early jobs, business books, conferences, and a senior year centered on debate, confidence, and entrepreneurship.If you’re thinking, “I’m not smart enough,” “My kids will fight me,” or “Is it too late to start homeschooling — especially for middle and high school?” this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and a new definition of education.Connect with Janae:InstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsiteFollow the show, leave a review, and share this episode with a parent who needs reassurance today.Mentioned in today’s episode: 🎹  Have your kiddos learn piano from this amazing resource, check out: Simply Piano. We love it!  🎶 Cheryl's ebook: https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/ebook🎁 Free resource: Grab my free 30-day homeschool quick start guide at thehomeschoolhowto.comSupport the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast