Ep. 81 - Homeschooling Preschool: How To Get The Most Out Of The Early Years

She thought preschool meant worksheets and flashcards.In this freeing and practical episode, Christy-Faith sits down with child development expert and homeschooling mom Kathy Eggers to challenge the myth that “real” learning only happens at a desk. With decades of experience as a teacher, administrator, and author of The Homegrown Preschooler and A Year of Playing Skillfully, Kathy reveals why play is not a distraction from academics; it’s the very foundation of them.From the science showing kids master concepts 20x faster through play than through drills, to the surprising role of mud pies, fairy houses, and pretend kitchens in developing executive function and emotional regulation, this episode offers both encouragement and concrete strategies.If you’ve ever felt guilty about not doing enough “schoolwork” with your preschooler, or overwhelmed by the mess that comes with play, Kathy and Christy-Faith bring relief: you don’t need to replicate school at home. You need to love, connect, and make space for wonder.Because at the end of the day, connection with your child is greater than any curriculum you’ll ever buy.The Christy-Faith Show | Ep. 81🛠️ LINKS & RESOURCESFree Homeschooling Resources Find everything you need to simplify and strengthen your homeschool journey: 👉 https://christy-faith.com/linksThrive Homeschool Community Join Christy-Faith’s online community for mentorship, encouragement, and real friendships that last: 👉 https://christy-faith.com/thriveChristy-Faith’s List A curated directory of homeschool-friendly service providers, businesses, and colleges: 👉 https://christy-faiths-list.comChristy-Faith’s Book: Homeschool Rising 📖 Encouragement and strategy for starting strong or starting over: 👉 https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising🎙️ SHOW SPONSORSBJU Press Homeschool ✔ Flexible structure with a biblical worldview ✔ Built-in critical thinking and hands-on learning 👉 https://www.bjupresshomeschool.com/christyCTC Math ✔ Online, self-paced K–12 math curriculum ✔ 50% off plus a free trial for Christy-Faith listeners 👉 https://ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school?tr_id=CFLearningRx ✔ Cognitive skills training for kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and more ✔ $50 off assessment with code HOME50 👉 https://LearningRx.com  or call 866-272-4601Lovevery – The Reading Skill Set ✔ Game-based, science-backed reading program ✔ 98% of kids improved in just 6 weeks 💰 https://lovevery.com/christyfaith  (code CHRISTY10)REFERENCES IN EPISODE 👀Play Skillfully with Kathy Eggers🔗 https://www.instagram.com/playskillfullywithkathyeggers🎧 SHOW RECAPToo many moms of littles believe they aren’t “doing enough.” This episode shows why that’s not true.✅ Why play builds brains faster than flashcards✅ How messy play builds fine motor skills and confidence✅ Why uninterrupted play is vital for social and emotional growth✅ How to reframe clutter and chaos without giving up peace✅ Why connection matters more than curriculum in early childhood✅ The simple mindset shift that frees parents from guiltIf you’ve ever felt like preschool “doesn’t count” unless it looks like school, this episode will remind you of the truth: love, play, and presence are the best teachers of all.📌 Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a mom who needs this encouragement.💬 What’s one way your child learns best through play? Share your story in the comments.