Homeschool Ways with Adriana Zoder

If your child isn’t retaining history, the issue may not be the subject—it may be the method.In this episode, I walk through the key differences between Story of the World and Notgrass History so you can confidently choose what works best for your homeschool.We cover:Why some kids love story-based history—and others don’tThe difference between narrative learning and structured curriculumHow independence level impacts your daily homeschool flowWhich curriculum reduces overwhelm for parentsStory of the World uses engaging storytelling to present history chronologically, while Notgrass History combines narrative, primary sources, and a structured daily plan with a Christian perspective. If you’ve been second-guessing your history curriculum, this episode will help you move forward with clarity.

In this episode, we sit down with Fernanda Romero to explore the inspiration behind her bilingual children’s book Colores del Mundo.We dive into:The importance of raising bilingual childrenHow storytelling shapes identity and cultureWhy language learning starts earlier than most thinkPractical insights for parents and educatorsIf you’re interested in language, culture, or raising globally-minded kids, this conversation is for you.Colores Del Mundo by Fernanda Romero https://amzn.to/4vQcUDOKitten in the Storm by Adriana Zoder https://amzn.to/3Qypd7G[affiliate links]

Trying to choose between Math Mammoth and RightStart Math? In this episode, I share my honest experience using both homeschool math curriculums.I break down the pros, cons, teaching styles, and which type of learner each one works best for — so you can confidently decide what’s right for your family.

Teaching writing can feel overwhelming because it’s not just one skill—it’s multiple skills working together.In this episode, I compare IEW (Institute for Excellence in Writing) and Writing With Ease to help you decide which approach fits your child best.We talk about:Why writing is so difficult to teachStructured vs foundational approachesWhich curriculum works better for struggling writersHow to match the method to your child’s readinessIEW offers a step-by-step structure that helps students who feel stuck and need clear direction.Writing With Ease focuses on building foundational skills like narration and copywork, making it ideal for younger learners or those not ready for full composition.The key difference:IEW = Structure + OutputWriting With Ease = Foundation + ReadinessIf you’ve been feeling stuck teaching writing, this episode will give you a clear path forward.

Choosing the right math curriculum can feel overwhelming—especially when two popular options take completely different approaches.In this episode, I compare Life of Fred and Saxon Math from a real homeschool perspective.We’ll talk about:• Story-based vs traditional math instruction• Spiral vs mastery learning• Student independence and parent involvement• Strengths, weaknesses, and common frustrations• Which type of learner each program fits bestIf you’re trying to decide what will actually work in your homeschool, this episode will help you make a confident choice.Life of Fred - the first 4-volume set - https://amzn.to/4bXVFaISaxon Math - 3rd grade kit - https://amzn.to/3NOx8wIThis contains affiliate links.

Bedtime can be one of the most meaningful — and most challenging — parts of the day.In this episode, I talk with children’s author Karen Brough about her book The Coast Is Clear and how simple bedtime rhythms can help children feel safe, calm, and connected.We explore:• Why bedtime stories matter more than we think• How to ease anxiety and nighttime fears• The power of rhythm and language in calming children• Practical ways to create peaceful bedtime routines• How homeschool families can extend stories into deeper conversationsIf bedtime feels rushed or overwhelming, this conversation offers a gentle, realistic way forward.Book mentioned - The Coast Is Clear - https://amzn.to/3NTg2h1 [affiliate link]

How do you help a child fall in love with reading—especially if they struggle or resist it?In this episode, I’m joined by award-winning children’s author Eve Heidi Bine-Stock, creator of Olivia’s Jokes, a story inspired by a real-life moment of kindness and community.We explore how humor can transform a child’s relationship with reading, why laughter is more powerful than pressure, and how parents—especially homeschool families—can create simple, meaningful experiences that build confidence and creativity.Eve also shares practical advice for supporting reluctant readers, along with tools that can make reading more engaging and accessible.Whether you’re raising a young reader or trying to encourage one who’s struggling, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable ideas.📚 Olivia’s Jokes by Eve Heidi Bine-Stockhttps://amzn.to/4lJvkBv (affiliate link — helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you)

In today’s culture, parenting can feel like a constant push toward extremes. Whether the topic is education, discipline, technology, or lifestyle, parents often feel pressure to pick a side.But what happens when reacting to those extremes causes us to overcorrect?In this episode of Homeschool Ways, I’m joined by author Manu Brune, whose book Overcorrecting: Parenting in the Middle While the World Shouts in Extremes explores how parents can stay grounded in their values without becoming reactive or rigid.We discuss:What “overcorrecting” looks like in modern parentingWhy parents feel pressured to choose sidesThe role fear plays in parenting decisionsHow homeschooling families can find healthy balanceTeaching kids discernment in a polarized worldA practical step for overwhelmed parents this weekIf you’re a homeschool parent navigating cultural pressure and looking for a calmer, wiser path forward, this conversation is for you.

School teaches subjects.But it rarely teaches students how to manage them.If your teen seems capable but struggles with homework, deadlines, or studying, the problem might not be motivation — it’s missing skills.In this episode, we break down the four academic skills most teens were never taught, and how parents can start teaching them at home.You’ll learn:• Why smart teens still struggle academically• The planning mistake most teens make• How to teach task breakdown so assignments don’t feel overwhelming• The study strategies that actually work (not rereading notes)• Why emotional regulation affects learning more than parents realizeWhen teens learn these invisible academic skills, performance changes — and so does confidence.Skills can be taught. Identity shouldn’t be damaged.Subscribe for grounded, practical guidance for raising capable teens.

If you’ve ever said, “She’s so smart but just doesn’t apply herself” — this episode is for you.Many bright teens struggle in middle and high school not because they lack intelligence, but because they lack trained academic execution skills. IQ does not equal follow-through. Understanding does not equal output.In this episode, we break down:Why smart teens often underperformThe hidden executive function gap (planning, task initiation, focus, emotional regulation)Why motivation isn’t the starting pointHow structure builds success — and success builds motivationPractical systems you can implement this weekUnderperformance is not a character flaw.It’s a systems problem.Potential is common.Trained execution is rare.Subscribe for grounded, practical strategies that help teens succeed without shame or pressure.

When learning doesn’t look like school, parents often assume something is wrong.But school is a format. Learning is a process — and they are not the same.In this episode, we explore why capable teens sometimes struggle inside traditional academic models, and how reframing “what counts” as learning can immediately reduce pressure at home.We discuss:– The myth of linear progress– Why different pacing isn’t deficiency– How to support growth without lowering expectationsThis episode is for parents who want to build capable teens — not just compliant students.

Homeschooling high school can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re raising a teen and wondering if you’re “behind.”In this episode, we walk through three common fears homeschool moms carry during the high school years:• Feeling behind academically• Wondering if colleges will take homeschooling seriously• Struggling with teen motivationYou don’t need panic. You need clarity.For more practical high school homeschool guidance, visit Homeschool Ways on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@HomeschoolWays

Can babies really learn a second language — even before they can talk?In this episode, I’m joined by Christine Barry, creator of JoJo Learning – Sing & Learn Chinese Baby & Me, an interactive book designed for babies 6 months and up.We talk about why early language exposure matters, how music and sound support brain development, and how parents can introduce Chinese naturally through play — even if they don’t speak the language themselves.This interactive book features buttons that play songs and real Chinese pronunciation, making language learning a shared experience for parents and babies.🔗 Book 1 in the JoJo Learning Series https://amzn.to/4tqvBN9 (affiliate link)If you’re a parent interested in early learning, bilingual exposure, or educational tools that actually work, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of the Homeschool Ways Podcast, I’mtalking with Keith Lowe, author and illustrator ofThe Fuel Factory (Your Body) — a homeschool biology bookthat explains digestion, energy, and the human body in a way kids actually understand (and enjoy).What caught our attention immediately? 👉 The illustrations.They’re hand-drawn, expressive, and full of movement — and my teen artist daughter lit up when she saw them. In a world full of AI-generated art, this book feels refreshingly human.Keith is both an artist and an illustration professor, and The Fuel Factory reads more like an engaging story than a dry curriculum. It pairs beautifully with the accompanying workbook, making it ideal for homeschool families teaching biology or health.If you’re looking for: a homeschool biology resource kids won’t resistreal science explained clearlyand artwork that sparks creativitythis conversation is for you.Get the book here https://amzn.to/4qa5M12 [affiliate link]Connect with Keith Lowe https://www.keithloweart.com 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music.📺 Watch the full video on YouTube.

What makes someone walk away from a legal career to write children’s books? In this conversation, Marteena Rodriguez-Drinnen shares her journey from juvenile court lawyer to stay-at-home mom and author.We talk about her decision to step into motherhood full-time, her plans to homeschool, and why she chose to create The Adventures of Tiny Tail — a gentle children’s book series that reflects traditional family values without being preachy or exclusionary.This conversation is for parents who care about the stories their children grow up with and who are looking for meaningful, thoughtful alternatives in a very loud world.Always Room For More by Marteena Rodriguez-Drinnen👉 Get the book on Amazon (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4qQY2SE--- 📄 Free Resource for Homeschool Parents Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour (FREE PDF)👉 https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/organized---🌐 Connect with Homeschool WaysFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X: https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog: https://www.HomeschoolWays.com---📚 My Books 👉 https://homeschoolways.com/about/☕ Support the ChannelBuy me a coffee or tea: https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderIf you found this conversation helpful, please subscribe for weekly homeschool encouragement, news, and practical tools for parents.*Disclosure: This description contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In this episode, former NBA assistant coach turned author Brett Gunning shares the leadership, life, and purpose-driven lessons he’s learned on and off the court — and how those insights led to his On The Right Path book series and curriculum.From basketball to books, this conversation goes beyond the game and into what it really means to find direction, build character, and stay on the right path in life.We talk about:Why talent alone isn’t enough for long-term successHow coaching principles translate to leadership and everyday lifeWhat “being on the right path” actually looks likeThe mindset shifts Brett experienced moving from coaching to writingHow his books and curriculum are helping students, athletes, and leadersBrett’s work is used by educators, coaches, and families who care about developing purpose and character — not just performance.👉 Learn more about Brett’s books, curriculum, and resources here:

Get I am Joshua - Let's Talk on Amazon https://amzn.to/4sC1lhV affiliate linkBate Ilondior's son did not speak much until he was 4 - kind of like Einstein. This set Bate on a quest to find solutions and a diagnosis. After several months of tests and speech therapy, her son started developing his vocabulary.This mom's journey through a language challenge with her son should inspire everyone to tailor education to their children.FREE PDF to organize your homeschool in 1 Hour https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/organizeFacebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderPlease subscribe to the channel for weekly homeschool encouragement, news, and tools.

Introduce your child to a realm in which a sad princess learns that spelling magic can happen. In The Sad Princess, author and illustrator Alex Faisman helps children make a connection between letters, sounds, and meaning.Get The Sad Princess on Amazon https://amzn.to/491eKqP [affiliate link]Other titles by Alex Faisman also available.Over 400,000 families have downloaded the FREE Reading App - The Reading Buddy. Read your child a story, or let the app read to your child while the words are highlighted on the screen. Find it in the App Store or Google Play.Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderFREE PDF Organize in 1 Hour https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/organizeFREE Nature Journal 30 pages to record and organize your outings https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/naturejournal Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderHomeschool Coaching Available: adriana-zoder.kit.com/products/coaching

Unlock the secrets to early learning that truly inspires children with Teri Farrari, developmental psychologist, author, and natural health practitioner. In this interview, Teri shares her expert strategies for helping children build confidence, creativity, and resilience—essential skills for a happy and successful life.🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Video:How to make learning fun, meaningful, and inspiringTechniques to nurture your child’s creativity and curiosityTips for fostering confidence and resilience in early childhoodInsights from Teri’s innovative early learning schools, featured worldwideWhether you’re homeschooling, supplementing your child’s education, or just looking for ways to make learning more engaging at home, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.📚 About Teri Farrari:Teri is a developmental psychologist, natural health practitioner, and author who has dedicated her career to creating educational materials and schools that help children thrive. Her work has been featured on BBC News, Sky Television, Channel 9 (Australia), and in publications including The Sunday Times, The Observer, Daily Mail, and Parents Magazine.👉 Resources & Links:Visit Teri Farrari’s website: https://terifarrari.com/#earlylearning #ChildDevelopment #Homeschooling #ParentingTips #ConfidenceInKids #CreativityInChildrenBuy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderGet Teri Farrari's books here https://terifarrari.com/ FREE PDF Organize in 1 Hour https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/organizeFREE Nature Journal 30 pages to record and organize your outings https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/naturejournal Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/

Teaching children a foreign language is very dear to my heart, as I learned several languages myself. I have taught my children several languages, as well. One of the tools in teaching foreign languages? Bilingual books. I have written some myself, and today I invite Heidy Espinosa Flores to tell us about her books, too.The Coco-Nuts' Holiday Story Collection presents English and Spanish vocabulary in a story form, as this family of coconuts experiences Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas together. Get the book here https://falohoplibrary.com/. Use the discount code HOMESCHOOLWAYS for 20% off.If you're loving these homeschool hacks, hit that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE for weekly nature-inspired tips, and drop a comment! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦#BilingualBooks #BenefitsOfBilingualism #HomeschoolWays #HomeschoolMomLife #BeingBilingualConnect with me: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ 1:1 Homeschool Coaching https://adriana-zoder.kit.com/products/coaching Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderThank you for your support! I really appreciate it.

Discover the transformative power of nature walks in this uplifting video from Homeschool Ways! 🌿 As a busy homeschool mom, I know how overwhelming life can feel—but stepping outside for a solo stroll or a family adventure can recharge your body, soothe your soul, and ignite endless learning opportunities. In this episode, I dive deep into the incredible benefits of nature walks: from boosting physical health and reducing stress to enhancing emotional well-being, sharpening mental focus, and fostering social bonds with your kids (or just some peaceful alone time for YOU!).I'll share practical tips to get started, even on hectic days, and recommend my top 3 must-read nature books to inspire your journeys:- "52 Ways to Walk" by Annabel Abbs-Streets - The one I reference in the video with even the 12-minute walk idea. Grab it on Amazon. https://amzn.to/4hExhx5 [affiliate link]- "Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv – A game-changer on why kids (and adults!) need more nature to combat "nature-deficit disorder." Borrow from your library or grab it on Amazon! https://amzn.to/3WRTLkV [affiliate link]- "The Nature Fix" by Florence Williams – Science-backed proof of how forests heal our brains and hearts. Perfect for evidence-loving homeschoolers. https://amzn.to/4ocyePL [affiliate link]Ready to journal your discoveries? Download my FREE 30-page Nature Journal PDF right now – packed with prompts, sketches, and reflection pages tailored for homeschool families! It's your instant tool to turn every walk into a meaningful lesson. https://homeschoolways.com/naturejournal/ If you're loving these homeschool hacks, hit that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE for weekly nature-inspired tips, and drop a comment: What's your favorite spot for a nature walk? Let's build a community of curious explorers! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦#HomeschoolNatureWalks #BenefitsOfNature #FreeNatureJournal #HomeschoolMomLife #OutdoorLearning #NatureBooksForKids📥 Free Nature Journal Download: https://homeschoolways.com/naturejournal/ Connect with me: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Blog www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderThank you for your support! I really appreciate it.

Adra and Jonathan Ludwig, homeschool graduates who are homeschooling their own two children, co-founded SAIL Co-op in Knoxville.SAIL stands for Symbiosis Arts Interactive Learning. It is a one-of-a-kind Christian arts school cooperative. SAIL provides a diverse array of courses that cover everything from learning the fundamentals of fine arts to pursuing a career in the entertainment field. The school's hands-on approach to teaching the arts allows students to actively participate in theatrical productions and visual media presentations throughout the academic year. The individual skills honed by each student come together in a beautiful symbiotic relationship, resulting in an unforgettable education experience.The mission of SAIL is to be a unique Christian arts school cooperative that provides atistic and collaborative experiences which present students with the opportunities to build the viable fundamental skills necessary to navigate through the creative process in their personal and professional futures.#HomeschoolJourney #HomeschoolMom #RelaxedHomeschoolingFREE Download: The Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Read my blog www.HomeschoolWays.comGet my books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderThank you for your support! It means a lot to me.

Are you looking for an exciting, interactive workshop to teach your children about how a bill becomes law, how elections are organized, and how our government works? TeenPact is an amazing four-day program for teens (or one-day program for younger kids) during which they learn by immersion. Every year, as part of TeenPact, your children will travel to your state capitol, tour the building, meet with legislators, and participate in mock elections and mock legislature. In this podcast episode, I interview Sabrina Freeland, a dear friend of mine who coordinates TeenPact in Tennessee. I have entrusted Sabrina with my children for nine years. Every year, the kids grow and experience the TeenPact workhop differently, learning something new every time.For more information and to find your state's program, visit www.teenpact.com.FREE Download: The Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HomeschoolWays Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoder

Meet Lydia Griffin of Sevierville, TN - a homeschool mom of three, who was also homeschooled herself as a member of the first family to ever homeschool in Sevier County, TN.Lydia and I met in 2018 through her hiking club and have found we share a love of nature, books, and all things homeschooling.Join us as we dive into such topics as what it was like to be homeschooled in the 1980s, when it was still illegal; how we tame the technology beast; what nature can do for our children's tempers and much more. And stay tuned for Part 2 of this lovely exchange.FREE Download: The Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoder

On October 1, FAFSA and CSS opened for the 2026-2027 College Admissions season. However, the US Federal Government is shut down. What to do?In this episode, Adriana Zoder breaks down how she helped her son file both FAFSA and CSS for college admissions during a government shutdown.#HomeschoolJourney #HomeschoolMom #RelaxedHomeschoolingFREE Download: The Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/Read my blog www.HomeschoolWays.comGet my books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderThank you for your support! It means a lot to me.

Ever laughed at the idea of homeschooling—only to end up embracing it as your life's calling? In this heartfelt episode of Homeschool Ways Podcast, I share my unexpected path to homeschooling. I knew nothing about it until college, where I initially dismissed it as a crazy concept. But everything changed when I met young people who had been homeschooled, read a book titled Better Late Than Early, and then had the incredible opportunity to work with Dr. Raymond Moore, the pioneering founder of the Moore Foundation and a true visionary in family-centered education. Through his wisdom and influence, I discovered the joys of child-led learning, the freedom of home education, and the deep fulfillment of staying home with my kids.If you're a new homeschooler, a curious parent, or someone feeling that nudge toward a different path, this story is for you. Join me as I unpack the laughs, the lessons, and the leap of faith that led me here. What's your homeschool origin story? Share in the comments below—I'd love to hear!Don't forget to like, subscribe to Homeschool Ways for more real-talk tips all things homeschooling, Christian family life, and building strong home foundations. Hit the bell for notifications. #HomeschoolJourney #HomeschoolMom #RelaxedHomeschoolingFREE Download: The Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/X https://x.com/homeschoolwaysPinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/www.HomeschoolWays.comMy books https://homeschoolways.com/about/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderThank you for your support! I really appreciate it.

Would you like to teach your small children how to code but are not interested in giving them yet another screen to stare at? In this video, I interview Hannah Hagon and her new book, Unplugged Tots.Unplugged Tots will show you activities you can implement in your home with your young children, using simple household items you already have.Hannah Hagon's book, Unplugged Tots, covers sequencing, logic, patterns and other skills necessary for coding through projects parents and children can work on together.Start small with baby steps. Don't overwhelm yourself. Get messy. Messes clean up. Preschoolers need time in the 3D world to learn what the world is all about.Get the book here https://amzn.to/4n0OHGb [affiliate link].FREE Download the Ultimate Checklist to Organize Your Homeschool in 1 Hour and sign up for my weekly newsletter: adriana-zoder.kit.com/organize.Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HomeschoolWays/ X https://x.com/homeschoolways Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/HomeschoolWays/ Buy me a coffee/tea https://buymeacoffee.com/adrianazoderYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HomeschoolWaysThank you for your support. I really appreciate it.