PODCAST · education
Called To Homeschool
by Meg Thomas
Are you feeling the call to homeschool and you're not sure what to do? Or maybe you are already homeschooling and it doesn't look like what you hoped it would. My name is MegThomas and I'm a certified Life Coach, a mother of seven and a homeschool pro with more than a decade of experience. I can show anyone how to create success in their homeschool, and I'd love to show you how. Are you ready?Learn more at www.coachmegthomas.com.
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#372 Homeschooling a Toddler? Start Here.
When should you start homeschooling a toddler?One of the biggest misconceptions about homeschooling is that it starts with curriculum.It doesn't.At 18 months old, your child doesn't need worksheets or a structured school day. They need you.Read together. Go on nature walks. Let them help you cook, clean, and do life alongside you. Build good habits. Foster curiosity. Fill their days with books, meaningful work, and play.Your goal isn't to create an early reader.Your goal is to raise a child who loves learning.Listen to Episode #372: Homeschooling a Toddler? Start Here.
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#371 How to Declutter Your Homeschool Curriculum (Without Regret)
Is your homeschool room overflowing with books, curriculum, and supplies? In this episode, I answer a listener's question about how to declutter your homeschool curriculum without regret. We'll talk about what to keep, what to let go of, and why the goal isn't to collect curriculum—it's to educate your children. If your homeschool space is feeling overwhelming, this episode will help you create a calmer, more functional environment that supports your family.
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#370 Don't Make Homeschool Decisions Out of Fear
A mom wrote in asking whether she should send her 4-year-old to preschool during a difficult season of life, even though she wants to homeschool.As we unpack her question, we discover that the real issue isn't preschool—it's fear.Fear of making the wrong decision.Fear of difficult seasons.Fear of what might happen in the future.In this episode, I share why fear is terrible at making decisions, how to stop borrowing trouble from the future, and why you don't need to have your entire homeschooling journey figured out today.If you've ever wondered whether you're capable of homeschooling, felt pressure from family members, or struggled to trust yourself as a parent, this episode is for you.Remember: the mother who has a why to homeschool can bear almost any how.
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#369 Don't Build a Homeschool and Lose Your Marriage
Let's talk about a relationship that often gets overlooked during the homeschool years—your marriage.In this episode, I'm sharing lessons from The Empowered Wife by Laura Doyle and discussing self-care, respect, gratitude, vulnerability, and why you only need one person to start creating positive change in a relationship.Because homeschooling is temporary. Your marriage is forever.
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#368 How to Be More Consistent in Your Homeschool (Even When You Don't Feel Motivated)
Do you ever feel motivated one week and completely off track the next?In this episode, I answer a question from a homeschool mom of three (with baby #4 on the way!) who wants to create more consistency in her homeschool. We talk about time management, routines, motivation, building sustainable habits, and how to create a homeschool that works even during busy seasons of life.If you've ever wondered how to stay consistent when you don't feel motivated, this episode is for you.
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#367 Raising the Whole Child: Homeschooling Is More Than Academics
Are you focusing so much on academics that you’re forgetting the bigger picture of education?In this episode, we talk about what Charlotte Mason meant by “raising the whole child” and why homeschooling is about so much more than grades, curriculum, and checking boxes.We discuss:• character and habits• emotional regulation• life skills• home atmosphere• meaningful work• raising capable, responsible childrenBecause homeschooling is not just preparing children for tests—it’s preparing them for life.
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#366 From Fear-Based Learning to a Love of Learning
What happens when a child leaves traditional school… and suddenly loses all motivation to learn?In this episode of Called to Homeschool, we talk about:• deschooling• perfectionism and fear-based motivation• helping kids rediscover curiosity• living books and hands-on learning• why homeschool should NOT look like school at home• habits, connection, and family cultureIf you have a resistant child, an anxious perfectionist, or a child who just wants to “get done,” this episode is for you.🎧 Episode #366: From Fear-Based Learning to a Love of Learning@coachmegthomas#homeschool #homeschooling #homeschoolmom #deschooling #charlottemason #calledtohomeschool #homeschoolhelp #livingbooks #parenting
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#365 Teaching Kids to Listen (Without Pressure)
If you’ve ever wondered if your child is actually listening—or worried you’re doing something wrong—this episode is for you.Today we’re talking about what’s really going on when young kids don’t respond the way we expect, and how to gently teach listening in a way that builds confidence instead of pressure.In this episode, we cover:What’s actually age-appropriate (especially for little ones)Why “I don’t know” doesn’t mean they aren’t learningHow to use Charlotte Mason-style narration—without turning it into a testSimple ways to build attention and listening skills over timeBecause at this age…you’re not measuring what they know—you’re nurturing their ability to pay attention.If you’re just starting homeschooling or feeling unsure if it’s “working,” this episode will give you clarity and peace.
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#364 From Broken to Building: How I Created the Family I Always Wanted—and How You Can Too
From Broken to Building: How I Created the Family I Always Wanted—and How You Can TooIn this deeply personal episode, I’m sharing the story I don’t tell lightly.There was a time when I was an overwhelmed, reactive mom—trying to control everything in my home, struggling with my mental health, and searching for peace in all the wrong places.And yet… today I homeschool, I lead my home with calm and intention, and I’ve created a connected, peaceful family life.In this episode, I share how that transformation happened—and how you can do it too.We talk about:✨ My journey from broken to building✨ How to stop being a reactive, yelling mom✨ The 6-step roadmap to a calm, connected home✨ Practical mindset shifts for intentional parenting✨ How to homeschool without losing your mindThis episode is for you if you’re a:Homeschool momOverwhelmed mom trying to find peace at homeChristian mom looking to trust God more in motherhoodMom who wants to build a strong family cultureParent ready to move from chaos to calmIf you’ve ever felt like your past disqualifies you… or that you’re too far gone to change…You’re not.You can become a calmer mom.You can create a peaceful home.You can build a homeschool and family life you love.🎧 Press play to start building a home filled with connection, purpose, and peace.
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#363 One Good Mother Can Change Everything
What if the most powerful force in your home… is you?This Mother’s Day, we’re talking about the quiet, often unseen influence of a mother—and why it matters more than you think.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your presence shapes the entire feeling of your homeHow to stop giving your power away to your kids’ behaviorThe small shifts that create big change in your familyAnd how taking care of yourself is actually one of the most powerful things you can doYou don’t need to do more.You don’t need to be perfect.Because one mother—calm, grounded, and intentional—can change everything.💛 And that mother is you.
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#362 How little can you homeschool and still be successful?
How much homeschooling is actually enough?If your days feel long, overwhelming, or like you’re not doing enough—this episode will give you clarity and peace.We’ll talk about:How the amount of school changes as your child growsWhy homeschool takes far less time than you thinkThe 4 stages of learning and what matters most in each phaseSimple guidelines for how much structured learning you really needAnd a reminder that “school” doesn’t have to look like worksheets at the table—it can happen through reading, real life, and being together.There’s no magic number.You don’t need to do more—you need to do what matters.
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#361 Why Your Homeschool Feels Overwhelming (And What to Do Instead)
If your homeschool days feel rushed… repetitive… or just a little “bleh,” you are not alone.In this episode, I’m answering a question from a homeschool mom of five who is feeling the weight of doing all the things—morning baskets, independent work, piano, toddlers, and everything in between—and wondering how to slow down and actually enjoy it again.We talk about:Why your homeschool might feel rushed (and it’s not what you think)The hidden role of worry and overwhelmHow to slow down without falling behindSimple ways to add variety when things feel monotonousAnd how to prevent burnout before it startsI also share a powerful mindset shift that will help you move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling more calm, confident, and in control of your days.Because the goal isn’t to rush through your homeschool…It’s to build a life with your kids.
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#360 Helping Your Kids Actually Understand Math—and Enjoy It!
Math can feel overwhelming—for you and your kids.If you’ve ever felt like you’re explaining the same thing over and over and it’s just not sticking, you’re not alone.In this episode, I’m sharing a simpler, more effective way to approach math—one that helps your kids actually understand it and even enjoy it.I also answer a listener question about teaching math in the early years and share what I’ve used with my own kids—from games and flashcards to books and curriculum options.If math has felt hard in your home, this episode will help you rethink your approach and make it more enjoyable for everyone.
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#359 The Parenting Mistake That’s Keeping Your Kids Dependent
Are you helping your kids… or accidentally keeping them dependent?In this episode, we talk about a common parenting mistake that many well-meaning parents make—and how it can hold kids back from real independence.You’ll learn:Why independence comes from skills, not ageThe tension between giving too much freedom vs. not enoughA simple shift to help your kids grow in responsibilityBecause the goal isn’t just raising kids who behave…👉 It’s raising adults who are capable and ready for real life.🎓 Want help applying this? Join my live class, Levels of Liberty🗓 April 16 | 7 PM MT🎥 Replay includedRegister: www.coachmegthomas.com
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#358 The Homeschool Bible an interview with Mandy Davis from Home Built Education
Meet Mandy Davis from @homebuilteducation She is a former teacher and principal turned homeschooler.She has such a fascinating perspective of the public education model and homeschooling.I was excited to interview her and find out why she left, and why she thinks other people are leaving too.She talks about her struggles in homeschooling, socializing, and how can homeschoolers get into college.She also shared about her new book, The Homeschool Bible. The book is a roadmap to guide you through the real questions that show up in every season of homeschooling.You'll find: legal steps, curriculum overviews, daily rhythms, and so much more.
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#357 Your Homeschool Can Be This Big: Building a Life, Not Just Lesson Plans
What if your homeschool was bigger than curriculum, schedules, and lesson plans?In this episode, I’m sharing something really special—our upcoming trip to England and Ireland, and how this adventure grew out of our homeschool life. We’ll talk about dreaming big with your homeschool, building a life your children actually get to experience, and why education doesn’t have to stay inside the walls of your home.I’ll also share what we’re studying before the trip, how we prepare for travel learning, and why homeschooling gives families the freedom to turn history, literature, and geography into real-life experiences.If you’ve ever wondered how big your homeschool could be, this episode is for you.
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#356 From Public School to Homeschool: Managing Downtime Without Screens How to help your child adjust to shorter school days without constant entertainment.
From Public School to Homeschool: Managing Downtime Without ScreensPulling your child from public school can feel freeing… and a little terrifying.Because here’s what no one tells you:Homeschool doesn’t take six hours a day.It might only take one or two.So what do you do with the rest of the time — especially when your child is used to constant structure, stimulation, and full-day schedules?In this episode, I’m talking directly to the mama transitioning from public school to homeschool — especially with little ones at home. We’ll cover:Why downtime isn’t dangerousHow to manage screen time without daily battlesWhy boredom is actually a skillHow to build simple afternoon rhythmsAnd how to confidently say no to constant entertainmentWe’ll also talk about winter months, outdoor time, and why the quote “There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” might need to become your new homeschool motto.If you’re worried your child will just ask for TV all day… this episode will give you practical tools and a calmer mindset.Because homeschool isn’t about filling every minute.It’s about building capable, creative, connected kids.And sometimes that starts with letting them be bored.
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#355 When Your Child Isn’t Motivated to Read Understanding Reading Readiness in Homeschool
What do you do when your child just isn’t interested in reading? When phonics feels like a battle, motivation is low, and you’re wondering if something is wrong?In this episode, we talk about reading readiness, child development, and why motivation cannot be forced. I share what actually matters in the early years, how pressure can backfire, and how to tell the difference between a true concern and simple developmental timing.If you’re worried your child is behind or unmotivated, this conversation will help you step back, stay calm, and move forward with confidence.
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#354 Growing Your Family Without Losing Your Homeschool: Homeschooling Through Pregnancy, Newborns, and Toddlers
Can you grow your family and homeschool well at the same time? What happens to your routines, your curriculum, and your expectations when pregnancy, newborns, and toddlers enter the picture?In this episode, I share honest hindsight from homeschooling through multiple pregnancies and baby years. We talk about the logistics, the pressure Type A moms often feel, how to simplify during slower seasons, and why babies don’t ruin homeschool — rigid expectations do.If you’re wrestling with whether you can do both, this episode will bring clarity, perspective, and peace.
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#353 The Right Work at the Right Time in Homeschooling
If homeschooling feels overwhelming or your child is resisting schoolwork, you may not need new curriculum — you may need better timing. In this episode, I explain the first three phases of learning in a Thomas Jefferson Education: Core Phase, Love of Learning, and Scholar Phase. We’ll talk about child development, academic readiness, character training, and how aligning your homeschool expectations with your child’s season can reduce stress and build long-term leadership. The right work at the right time changes everything in your homeschool.
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#352 Love is the goal. Systems are a tool.
Love is the goal. Systems are the tools. In this episode, we talk about using routines and frameworks to support connection — not replace it — and how to come back to love, especially as kids get older.
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#351 Raising Capable Kids: Skills, Responsibility, and Real Freedom
In this episode, we explore how to raise capable kids by teaching responsibility and life skills before giving privileges. Learn a calm, skill-based parenting approach that reduces power struggles, builds respect, and helps children earn real freedom. This episode introduces the Levels of Liberty framework and explains how emotional, mental, physical, social, financial, and spiritual skills create confident, independent kids — especially in homeschool families.
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#350 Listener's Question: Happy Habits & Trying To Do It All
In this listener Q&A episode, I answer common questions about implementing Happy Habits with young children. We talk about avoiding all-or-nothing parenting, what to do when habits regress, how rewards really work, and how to build positive habits without power struggles.If you’re a homeschool mom trying to build routines and habits while already doing so much, this episode will help you focus on skill-building, calm leadership, and progress over perfection.
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#349 Stop Guessing: How to Lead Your Homeschool with Confidence
Do you want to be a calm, confident homeschool mom—but feel like you’re constantly reacting instead? In this episode, I answer a listener’s honest question about overwhelm, frustration, and not knowing what to do in the moment, and share why calm is a skill you can learn—not a personality trait. I also invite you to my free training, From Chaos to Calm, where I teach these tools step by step.Link to register: https://purple-bird-127.myflodesk.com/d19q9fm2uv
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#348 When You’re Trying Not to Yell (And It Still Feels Impossible)
If you’re doing everything you can not to yell—and it still feels impossible—this episode is for you.I’m answering a mom’s honest question about parenting two little boys with big energy, big feelings, and constant boundary-testing. In this episode, I cover:• Why rough play can be healthy• What behaviors you can ignore—and which ones matter• How praising the good changes behavior faster than correcting the bad• How to use simple “happy habits” for kids and parents• Why regulation is a skill you can buildThis is real-life parenting support—not perfection.If you’re tired, trying, and worried about starting homeschool already overwhelmed, this episode will meet you right where you are.
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#347 How to Keep Your Happiness Through Hard Seasons (and Keep Homeschooling When Life Falls Apart
What do you do when life has been hard for a long time—and you’re trying to keep homeschooling anyway?In this episode, I respond to a heartfelt question from a mom who believes deeply in intentional motherhood, homeschooling, and building a beautiful life with her children… but has been knocked down by a season of real hardship and healing.We talk about:Why happiness can feel inaccessible after dark or difficult seasonsWhy feeling constantly annoyed is often a sign of exhaustion, not failureHow the pressure of the “shoulds” keeps us stuckWhy you don’t restart homeschooling the same way you paused itAnd how joy, peace, and motivation return gently—not through forceThis is not a push-through-it conversation. It’s a compassionate, honest discussion about nervous system regulation, healing, parenting, and what homeschooling can look like when capacity is limited.If you’ve been wondering how to move forward without rushing yourself, this episode is for you.
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#346 How to Keep Toys (and Clutter) From Taking Over Your Home
In this episode, we talk about something so many families struggle with quietly: toy clutter.Inspired by Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne, I answer a listener’s question about how to keep toys (and clutter) from taking over your home — especially when kids are gifted so many toys, toy rotation feels overwhelming, and letting things go brings guilt.We’ll talk about:• why a simpler environment supports children’s nervous systems• how too many toys affect attention, behavior, and play• how to decide which toys to keep and which to release• how to talk to young children about having less• how to set kind but firm boundaries with extended family• and how parents can confidently lead the environment of their homeThis episode is for parents who want calmer homes, deeper play, and an environment that truly supports their family — without extremes, shame, or perfection.If clutter has been weighing on you, this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical next steps.
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#345 Three Pillars of Parenting: Part 3
In this episode, Meg shares the third pillar of effective parenting: setting clear boundaries and having clear consequences. When kids know exactly what the rules are—and what happens when those rules are broken—the power struggles begin to fade. Boundaries remove the guessing game from parenting and allow you to respond with confidence instead of reacting emotionally.You don’t need to lecture, threaten, or yell. The boundary does the teaching for you. Using simple, consistent follow-through (and your Happy Habits as a guide), you can create a home that feels peaceful, predictable, and steady for both you and your children.This final pillar brings structure, clarity, and calm to your parenting—so everyone in the home can thrive.
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#344 Three Pillars of Parenting: Part Two
In this episode, Meg teaches the second pillar of effective parenting: Noticing the Good. Most parents unintentionally overlook about 95% of their children’s positive behaviors—not because they don’t care, but because they’re busy, distracted, or focused on what needs fixing.When you intentionally call out the good, you’re not just praising a moment—you’re reinforcing the behavior and character you want to see grow. Meg shares simple phrases like “I notice…” and “I see…” that help you highlight kindness, effort, patience, and all the strengths your children are developing.This pillar works quietly but powerfully to build confidence, connection, and cooperation in your home.
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#343 Three Pillars of Parenting: Part 1 (Bonus-January Lesson Plans)
In this episode, Meg shares why staying calm and not reacting to negativity is one of the most powerful parenting tools you can use. You’ll learn how attention fuels behavior, why most misbehaviors disappear when ignored with purpose, and how to hold your peace instead of getting pulled into the drama.
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#342 Teaching Responsibility Without an Allowance
What if raising hard-working, responsible kids had nothing to do with money — and everything to do with habits, purpose, and family culture?In this coaching conversation with a homeschool mom, we dive into how to teach children to be good humans, contribute to the home, and build real-life skills without paying them for every task. Instead of rewards and bribes, I introduce the power of Happy Habits — simple, consistent practices that shift responsibility, ownership, and self-motivation from the outside in.If you’ve ever wondered how to motivate without micromanaging — this one is for you.
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#341 Teens Tried Public School and it's Not Working: Facing the Fear of Bringing Them Home Again
This week I’m chatting with a mama who’s wrestling with a tough decision—whether to pull her 9th and 7th graders back out of public school. After a couple of years away from homeschooling, she’s noticing big changes: attitude problems, a lack of motivation, and tension at home. But she’s also feeling the weight of fear—What if they’re mad at me? What if it’s too late to bring them home?In this honest and heartfelt conversation, we talk through what’s really going on beneath the surface, how to rebuild connection with your teens, and how to lead with love and confidence instead of fear. If you’ve ever questioned whether it’s too late to bring your kids home, this episode will remind you that it’s never too late to restore peace and purpose to your family.
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#340 When Your Kids Can’t Focus (and You Feel Overwhelmed)
Do your homeschool lessons take forever? In this episode, I talk with a mom whose 8-year-old gets distracted by everything. We chat about staying calm, keeping lessons short, and letting go of the pressure to “get it all done.” You’ll hear what my homeschool days looked like with little ones and how to find peace in the slow moments.
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#339 How to Enjoy Homeschooling Again
Are you not enjoying your homeschool right now?You love your kids and you’re grateful for this lifestyle — but lately, it feels heavy. The lessons drag, your energy is low, and joy feels far away.In this episode, Meg shares gentle encouragement for the mom who’s showing up but not feeling it. You’ll learn why you don’t have to feel joy all the time to be faithful, how to reconnect with your “why,” and simple ways to bring beauty, peace, and delight back into your homeschool days.Listen in for honest encouragement, a mindset reset, and a reminder that you were called to this — and joy is still available, even here. 🌿🎧 Plus: Grab your free Joy Thoughts Printable to help you create calm and connection in your homeschool every day in our weekly newsletter.
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#338 How to Homeschool in December (without losing your mind)
The holidays are almost here — and so is the chaos! Between sugar highs, Christmas concerts, and twinkling distractions, December can make even the calmest homeschool mom feel like she’s losing her mind.In this episode, Meg reminds you that you’re not behind — and that homeschooling in December can actually be peaceful and fun. She’ll share how to simplify your days, release the pressure, and embrace meaningful learning through stories, service, and connection.Public schools aren’t doing much “serious” learning this month — so take a breath, grab some cocoa, and let this be the season your family learns through joy, not stress.
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#337 Staying Sane When You’re with Your Kids All Day, Every Day
Being with your kids 24/7 can be beautiful… and overwhelming. In this episode of Called to Homeschool, we’re talking honestly about what it takes to protect your peace, recharge your energy, and stay grounded when you’re never off the clock.You’ll hear simple, practical ways to build breathing room into your days, support your nervous system, and give yourself permission to be human—so you can show up as the mom you want to be.Because you can love your kids deeply and still need space to be you.
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#336 What Can I Do Instead of Yelling?
You already know yelling isn’t the mom you want to be… but when the kids are fighting, chores aren’t done, and no one is listening, it feels like the only option in the moment. So what can you do instead?In this episode, I’m sharing practical, real-life strategies you can use when the pressure builds and you’re tempted to raise your voice. Because the truth is, you don’t have to be a perfect mom—you just need better tools. And every small change in how you respond makes a big difference in your home.👉 If you’re ready for extra accountability and encouragement, join me for No Yell November—a 30-day challenge to reset your home, calm the chaos, and build deeper connections with your kids.www.coachmegthomas.com#NoYellNovember #HomeschoolMom #ParentingWithPurpose #GentleParenting #HomeschoolEncouragement
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#335 Why Do I Keep Yelling at My Kids—Even Though I Don’t Want To?
You love your kids deeply, but somehow the yelling keeps slipping out… and every time, you promise yourself it won’t happen again. So why is it so hard to stop?In this episode, I’m unpacking the real reasons moms yell—not because you’re a “bad mom,” but because you’re human, overwhelmed, and often running on empty. We’ll talk about why yelling feels like the quick fix in the moment, the hidden cost it has on your kids and your family culture, and the hope that things really can change.If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of yelling, guilt, and regret, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and show you the first steps toward breaking free.👉 And if you’re ready to practice this in a safe, supportive way, join me in No Yell November—a 30-day challenge to reset your home, calm the chaos, and rebuild connection with your kidswww.coachmegthomas.com
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#334 Ask Coach Meg: Homeschooling Kids Under 7 on One Budget + November Lesson Plans
Feeling stretched by the little years, wondering how to support a gifted child, or trying to homeschool while solo and on a budget? This conversation is for you. In this episode, Coach Meg shares a gentle, doable roadmap for three big topics moms are asking about—under-7 homeschooling, "gifted" learners, and single-mom strategies—so you can lead your home with calm, clarity, and confidence.
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#333 From Power Struggles to Partnership: Homeschooling Your Strong-Willed Child
If you’re homeschooling a strong-willed child, you know how draining the daily battles can feel. One mom writes in:"This is my second year homeschooling. I have three girls ages 7, 4, and 2. My oldest is very strong willed, opinionated, loves to debate or negotiate anything I say that involves doing school or other responsibilities she doesn’t like, and takes up a lot of the energetic space of our home. It is like pulling teeth to get her to do anything she doesn’t want to do. I do my best not to yell and use positive requests as well as state and keep boundaries. But they don’t seem to work… I’m feeling so nervous for our school year because our connection feels lacking and I just feel helpless with how to get that connection back so we can have a successful school year.”In this episode, I share how shifting from power struggles to partnership can transform your homeschool. We’ll talk about why parents often unknowingly step into the tug-of-war, how to refocus on the positive, what it looks like to ignore unhelpful behaviors without giving up authority, and how to intentionally teach good habits that make your days smoother.If you’ve ever wondered how to really connect with your strong-willed child while still leading your homeschool with confidence, this episode will give you practical encouragement and fresh hope.You’ll learn:How to step out of the tug-of-war and build true partnership with your strong-willed childSimple ways to shift attention toward the positive and let go of constant correctionPractical strategies for teaching habits that create smoother homeschool days
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#332 Homeschooling Through Distractions: Helping Your Oldest Focus With Littles Around
Homeschooling with little ones underfoot isn’t easy — and if you’ve ever felt like your days are chaotic, noisy, and full of interruptions, you’re not alone.In this episode of Called to Homeschool, I’m answering a listener’s question about how to teach a 7-year-old while also caring for a 4-year-old and an 8-month-old baby.You’ll learn:✨ How to keep lessons short, simple, and effective🧸 Creative ways to include (and occupy) younger siblings💛 How to protect your peace and find joy in this seasonIt doesn’t have to be calm to count.Homeschooling with littles isn’t quiet — but it’s still beautiful. 🌼
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#331 Holding On to Your Homeschool When You’re Running on Fumes
Burnout happens—even when you love homeschooling and positive parenting. In this candid conversation, my guest shares how she’s navigating the exhaustion of planning lessons, managing kids’ boredom, and preparing to welcome baby #5. We talk about practical ways to regain motivation by lowering expectations, simplifying your days, and focusing on small, consistent habits. You’ll hear encouraging ideas for shifting your mindset, doing less but better, and finding joy in the season you’re in—without running yourself into the ground.
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#330 The Power of Short Lessons in Homeschooling + lesson plans for October
Do homeschool lessons in your house ever drag on…and on…and on? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive into one of Charlotte Mason’s most practical principles: keeping lessons short and focused.You’ll learn:Why short lessons train a child’s full attentionHow brevity prevents burnout and keeps learning freshThe surprising way short lessons create variety, confidence, and peace at homePractical tips for setting lesson times by ageEncouragement for when it feels like “we’re not doing enough”Whether you’re new to Charlotte Mason or looking to bring more joy into your homeschool, this episode will help you simplify lessons, protect relationships, and spark a love of learning in your children.
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#329 How to Add Fun into a Structured Homeschool Day (Without Getting Overwhelmed
Do you love the idea of adding fun, whimsy, and faith into your homeschool day—but get stuck when it comes to actually planning it?In this episode, I’m answering a listener’s question about balancing structure and creativity, especially when homeschooling kids under 6. If you thrive on schedules but feel overwhelmed by the endless possibilities, this one’s for you.We’ll talk about:✨ Why rhythms work better than strict schedules✨ Simple ways to bring in games without overthinking it✨ How to naturally integrate Christianity into your dayYou don’t have to be naturally creative to make homeschooling fun. With a gentle framework, you can build days that feel peaceful, faith-filled, and full of delight.🎧 Tune in and discover how to make your homeschool both structured and joy-filled.
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#328 Considering Homeschool Again After Public School? An Honest Interview with a Homeschool Mom
In this episode, I sit down with a thoughtful homeschool mom who opens up about a common challenge: What do you do when your child doesn’t want to come back to homeschooling? Her daughter was homeschooled in kindergarten, went to public school for first grade, and now Mom is wrestling with whether to bring her home again. We talk through her honest concerns—like taking her daughter away from beloved teachers and friends, and how her child seems to respond better to other adults.We also explore the idea that it’s okay if your child isn’t thrilled about homeschooling—and why your homeschool doesn’t have to look or feel like school to be meaningful. If you’ve ever second-guessed your decision or felt torn between what’s good for your child socially and what feels right for your family long-term, this conversation will speak to you.
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#327 Strong Boundaries Make Strong Homeschools
In this episode, I answer a heartfelt question from a listener who’s working hard to parent with love and connection—but struggles when it comes to setting and holding boundaries. If you’ve ever felt squeamish or anxious when your kids are upset by limits (especially when your spouse handles it differently!), you’re not alone.We dive into why boundaries are not about control, but about love—and how holding them actually creates more peace and safety in your home. I also share why discomfort isn’t something to fear in our kids, and how growing your confidence in this area can transform your homeschool experience.You’ll also hear how to get started with my free Happy Habits guide—designed to help your family practice simple, doable boundaries in everyday life.
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#326 Overwhelmed and Unsure Where to Start? A Real Conversation with a Homeschool Mom
In this episode, I sit down with a homeschool mom who’s feeling the weight of overwhelm as she looks ahead to the school year. We talk about the common pressure to "do it all," how to simplify your approach, and how to know what to teach your kids.If you’ve ever wondered:When should I really start teaching formal writing?How do I know if I’m doing enough?What matters most during the early years of homeschooling?…then this conversation will feel like a deep breath. You’ll hear practical, grace-filled guidance and walk away with permission to slow down and focus on what truly matters.Tune in and get grounded before the homeschool year begins!
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#325 A Peek Inside Our 2025–2026 Homeschool Plans (+ New Lesson Plans Just for You!)
Curious what our homeschool is going to look like this year?In this week’s podcast episode, I’m sharing our plans for the 2025–2026 homeschool year—what we’re focusing on, what we’re simplifying, and how I’m building our rhythm around connection, not just checklists. 💛I’m also so excited to finally share the lesson plans I’ve created for YOU—designed to take the stress out of planning and bring more peace and purpose into your days.If you’ve been wishing for something that’s:✔️ Simple✔️ Flexible✔️ Easy to implement✔️ Rooted in values that matter to your family…You’re going to love these.🎧 Listen to the new episode for all the details—link in bio!📝 And head to the site to grab your copy of the new lesson plans! www.coachmegthomas.com
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#324 Living the Dream: Travel Edition for Homeschool Families
Ever dream of taking your homeschool on the road (or across the ocean!)—but feel overwhelmed by the cost, the logistics, or the idea of traveling with ALL the kids?⠀In this episode, I’m sharing how our family makes travel doable, even on a budget—and how we tie every adventure back into our homeschool.⠀🧳 Tips for finding cheap flights (even with a big family!)🧺 Budget hacks like grocery store meals & off-peak travel📖 How we prep with books, history, & culture before every trip💡 Why one paid excursion can be enough to make it magical🎒And how homeschooling gives us the flexibility to make it all work⠀From Hawaii and Germany to our upcoming trip to London and Paris—this is a peek behind the scenes at how we’re living our homeschool dream… one trip at a time.⠀Whether you’re road-tripping, dreaming of flying, or just wanting to travel smarter—this one’s for you.
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#323 How to Respond When Your Child Loses It
What do you do when your child completely falls apart—whether it’s a full-on meltdown, a flood of tears, or explosive anger?In this episode, we’ll talk about how to stay steady when your child is anything but. You’ll learn what’s really happening in your child’s brain and body during these moments, why your calm matters more than the perfect words, and how to respond in a way that builds trust and long-term resilience.We’ll cover:✨ Practical things to do (and not do) in the heat of the moment✨ What to do to avoid meltdowns in the future✨ And why your own calm is the best gift you can give your kidsIf you’ve ever wondered “Am I handling this right?”—this episode is for you.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Are you feeling the call to homeschool and you're not sure what to do? Or maybe you are already homeschooling and it doesn't look like what you hoped it would. My name is MegThomas and I'm a certified Life Coach, a mother of seven and a homeschool pro with more than a decade of experience. I can show anyone how to create success in their homeschool, and I'd love to show you how. Are you ready?Learn more at www.coachmegthomas.com.
HOSTED BY
Meg Thomas
CATEGORIES
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