Keynote
Culture, Curriculum, and Care: Building Community in a Time of Need, by Andrew Pudewa
What is the nature of culture? the nature of curriculum? How does one affect the other? What single element rests at the core of our success in teaching our children? How can we integrate all these as we work to build community with like-minded fellow homeschoolers, in a time when we all feel an increasing need for it? From his three decades of teaching and parenting experience, Andrew will share useful concepts and humorous stories to answer these questions and help invigorate your homeschool.
Title Partner
Advancing Homeschool Freedom Around the World, by Steven Policastro
Hear the stories of homeschool superheroes from around the world, parents like you who are fighting for freedom to teach their own children at home. From pulling off the impossible in Bolivia to fighting for freedom in France and even keeping quiet in China, hear the stories that are changing the world and learn how you can get involved to encourage others.
How to Homeschool
Using FREE Printables to Build Your Homeschool Curriculum, by Annette Breedlove
Homeschooling on a Budget isn’t easy, but it is possible. When Annette began homeschooling her oldest almost 11 years ago, their family budget was next to nothing. At first, she began scouting garage sales and second-hand curriculum shops to build her stash. By the time her fourth child came along, she was drowning in curriculum, books, and manipulatives that just clouded their learning. She began making printables and unit studies to help supplement their learning, while racking up BIG savings in their budget. While she continues to make free printables to share with her readers, she also utilizes quite a few herself for all of her kids. Find out how she uses FREE Printables in her homeschool while enhancing their learning.
Homeschool Is The Perfect IEP For Your Out Of The Box Kid, by Cynthia Heren
Discover how homeschooling is the ultimate Individualized Education Plan for your special needs student and how you as their parent are uniquely equipped to be their teacher no matter their educational needs.
Homeschooling The Gifted Child, by Cynthia Heren
Being gifted is more than being good at school, and struggling in school doesn’t mean you aren’t gifted. Cynthia will share her experience as a gifted student and adult and what it is like to teach her own gifted kids and all she has learned along the way.
7 Keys for Homeschooling High School, by Jennifer Merckling
After 18 years of homeschooling & graduating her own high schooler–Jen is excited to encourage you and share her insight! Come away equipped with practical tools and renewed confidence for homeschooling high school!
Super Flexibility: How to Explore Your Preschooler’s Interests Instead of the Curriculum (While Still Learning), by Sarah Miller
Do you want your preschooler to be excited about homeschool, but you aren’t sure where to begin? In this session, you will learn how to create a customized preschool experience that encourages your child’s love of learning (while still teaching everything your child needs to know). Sarah will also share why (and how) your kids can actually learn more when you don’t follow the curriculum! You will leave this session empowered with practical tips and specific tools to help you follow your preschooler’s lead as you homeschool.
What Do Homeschoolers Look Like?, by Michelle Osborn
Homeschoolers come in all different shapes and sizes. So, what does the average person think of when they hear “homeschooler”? What do they look and act like? Many parents fear homeschooling because they don’t want their child to be socially awkward. Michelle was often asked, “Why don’t your kids act like homeschoolers?” Find out what she learned about herself and her homeschool!
I Don’t Use Printables: Here’s Why & 10 Strategies To Try Instead, by Abby Banks
There’s an unspoken rule in the schooling world that the more written work a student produces, the more he has learned. I just don’t agree. So what’s a homeschool mom to do? There are other ways to assess your students’ progress without relying on worksheets. Here are 10 strategies to try instead.
How to Homeschool High School, by Betsy Sproger
Does the idea of homeschooling your teen give you pause? Homeschooling high school is really not that hard! In my session, I will explain how to deal with the planning and record keeping involved, to make doing high school not only easier, but also, more fun! We will cover homeschool transcripts the easy way, assigning high school credit, choosing curriculum, how to get into college, (if that is where your teen is headed) and much more. Some of the best homeschool memories I have was during the high school years at home. My goal is to make high school more approachable and more rewarding for every homeschool family.
Homeschooling Multiple Kids With Ease, by Christine Zell
Homeschooling multiple kids can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Join Christine as she chats about how she makes homeschooling multiple kids work easily in her homeschool. With multiple ages, even with wide age gaps, homeschooling multiple kids doesn’t have to be hard!
Thinking Outside the Box with Your Child’s Education to Best Prepare Them for Life, Amber Stephens
Do you often wonder how to teach real-life skills to your children? Or how to fit in the extras between math and writing? This workshop will help you discover how to think outside the box when it comes to your child’s education. We will explore ideas such as entrepreneurship, animal husbandry, outside resources that can be used for school, like 4H and other similar topics, no matter the age of your children!
A Grown Unschooler’s Account of Unschooling, by Becky Ogden
In this Q&A session, Becky will be joined by her oldest daughter, Erica, to discuss unschooling from the perspective of a grown unschooler.
The CLEVER way the Learning Brain Works, by Estie Alessandrini
Ready to discover how the learning brain receives, processes, and presents information; and use this knowledge to help your kids learn with confidence? ‘The CLEVER Way The Learning Brain Works’ will introduce you to key principles in neuroscience and psychology, and how these can be applied daily to turn learning frustration into learning determination. By uncovering how our smartest organ operates to support us with limitless genius we will reveal the secret of how we learn best.
An Optimal Learning Environment based on Brain Science, by Estie Alessandrini
Ever wondered if the learning struggles experienced by your kids are simply due to their age, cognitive function, or genetic intellectual capacity? And the simple answer is … No, it is not. Research has shown that focus, memory, and long-term retention – or in other words, learning potential – is a multifactorial process and the coalescence of numerous genetic and environmental factors. But which of these are most important, and how can we create an optimal environment to ensure learning success? In this presentation, we will answer all these questions and more and, show you how to help your kids learn with confidence.
You Can Successfully Homeschool an Only Child, by Katie Wolfe
Homeschooling is challenging, period. And homeschooling an only child has its own set of unique challenges, but it also has several special perks! Katie will share with you how she has handled those challenges and highlighted those perks to successfully homeschool her only child over the past 10 years.
Using Museums in Homeschool, by Steven Policastro
Hands-on learning is the most fun and memorable education for any child — and adult! You can inspire knowledge and awe of God’s creation by making your local museum or zoo one of your “classrooms.” In this workshop, Steven Policastro will show you how to use available resources and teaching techniques, including strategic Q&As, to teach your children the truth of God’s creation, even at secular museums.
Crash Course Guide to Homeschooling a Large Family, by Amy Roberts
Practical how-to steps you can implement today to make homeschooling multiple ages simple and successful!
Incorporating Whole Child Learning into Your Homeschool, by Nike Anderson
In this workshop, we will discuss the tenets of Whole Child Learning, why it’s essential, and how to seamlessly incorporate this education model into your homeschool routine. At the end of this workshop, you will have a clear understanding of how to prioritize and foster the full scope of your child's development to help them reach their absolute potential. We will delve into key developmental areas: physical and cognitive development, social and emotional intelligence, creative freedom, and spiritual nourishment. Grab your notebooks and let’s have a fun chat!
Homeschool Subject Areas
How to Teach Your Kids to Sing, by Gena Mayo
If you’ve ever wanted to learn to sing or to have your kids learn to sing, Gena shares that it’s not as hard as you might think. She’ll start with the basics that every good singer knows, and teach you some specific techniques that you can use starting today. Come ready to learn to sing!
Teach History the Fun Way with Time Travel, by Meredith Curtis
Rescue your children from dry facts and boring lessons because our future leaders deserve to know what’s happened in the past so they can shape the future. Let history come alive with timelines, mapping, and reading aloud/discussions. Travel back in time with historical fiction, games, movies, TV shows, drama, art, music, and food! Rescue yourself and your kids from boredom! Explore the long ago and far away in a brand new way and build relationships at the same time. Meredith’s philosophy is quick, easy, age-integrated, and fun! She will share examples from her decades of homeschooling 5 children and teaching history in homeschool co-ops to all ages together.
Your Children Can Be Super Hero Readers, by Meredith Curtis
Christian Super Heroes and History Heroes were avid readers of God’s Word and living books. Picking up some of these classics and trying to read them can make the average adult’s brain explode. How can we introduce our children to classic literature and cultivate a lifelong love of reading? You don’t have to be Wonder Woman to raise a book lover. Meredith will show you how to create an inviting atmosphere to read, build a home library, and find the perfect books for each child. In addition, earn practical ways to limit the kryptonite of screens and other distractions.
Secret Identity: How to Turn Any Boring Math Lesson into a Fun Hands On Activity that Your Child Will Love, by Sarah Miller
In this session, you will learn how to turn lessons from any boring math book into fun hands-on games and activities that will make your kids beg for more! This session will be full of detailed and practical lesson ideas that will inspire you to think beyond math worksheets and create engaging lessons that are fun for your kids- and simple to plan and teach. Sarah will share practical ways to help kids who struggle with math, and how to help kids who think “math is boring” to change their minds. You will leave this session inspired and ready to teach hands-on math lessons in your homeschool this year.
Cultivating Language Talents: From Preschool through High School, by Andrew Pudewa
Listening and reading well, speaking and writing clearly, thinking and debating effectively are abilities that most parents hope to cultivate in their children. With that goal in mind, Andrew will explore various environments and activities which will accelerate the development of these language skills, beginning with the youngest students and continuing into the high school years.
10 Reasons to Study Music Appreciation, by Justina of Jus’ Classical
Everyone appreciates music in some form. But many parents are hesitant to have their children study music appreciation – that is, the orchestra, composers and classical music – because they think their child is not interested in this kind of music. When children are exposed to all kinds of music at a young age, they can learn to appreciate all of these kinds of music, including classical. Also, the study of the orchestra and composers can engage all kinds of learners and enhances other subjects as well as offers a number of mental and psychological benefits.
When Bible History and World History Meet Face to Face, by Linda Lacour Hobar
Looking for inspiration in your study of ancient times? Join Linda Lacour Hobar (author of The Mystery of History) to discover what happens when Bible history and world history meet face to face – literally! With a look at Daniel and Belshazzar, Esther and Xerxes, Jesus and Pilate, and more, you will see bible characters and world history figures “meet” on one seamless, thought-provoking timeline to inspire an integrated approach to world history. Through stories and activities for all ages, let His-story be revealed.
Getting Started with Foreign Language, by Suzanne Gose
Let’s start with One, Two, Three…. in this session, Señora Gose will guide you through a flow chart based on where (and when!) you are in your season of homeschooling, and make appropriate decisions on how much time, energy, and resources to devote to learning and using a foreign language.
How to Help Your Child Build Confidence in and Enjoy Math, by Allison Dillard
If math is a source of stress in your house, don’t miss math professor and author Allison Dillard’s tips for creating a positive math learning experience for your child. She shares easy, practical changes to make math less stressful for you and your child. Whether you are a parent who loves math already or a parent dealing with your own math anxiety, Allison’s three-step framework will help your child to enjoy, gain confidence in, and succeed in math.
Teaching Math with Growth Mindset, by Allison Dillard
If your child thinks math is too hard and they just aren’t a “math person,” it’s time to level up their math mindset! Math professor and author, Allison Dillard breaks down the underlying causes of math anxiety and shares what to say (and what not to say) when your child is struggling in math. Her simple no-prep template to kickstart math time with growth mindset will help your child gain skills to succeed not just in math, but also in challenges in general.
Nature Study is Science, by Cindy West
Join me as I chat with her about using nature study as a robust part of your science plan no matter your homeschooling style. We’ll touch on some of the most frequently asked questions about nature study and how to handle common frustrations.
Charlotte Mason-Classical
Charlotte Mason Homeschooling… With a Twist!, by Christine Zell
Finding the right homeschool method can be tricky. When following any method, you can make it your own! The Charlotte Mason method can be such a fantastic way to include literature, nature studies, and more. But, what if you don’t feel like you’re following it the way Ms. Mason instructs? Here’s how Christine uses the Charlotte Mason method…with a twist!
Nuts and Bolts of Charlotte Mason w/ Foreign Language, by Suzanne Gose
In this practical session, Señora Gose will give you the “nitty gritty” of how to actually implement a lifestyle of learning a second language. No lofty theories, just proven baby steps on what Miss Mason would say about learning and teaching a foreign language in today’s modern homeschool.
Hands-On Learning with the Charlotte Mason method, by Meghann Dibrell
We live in an increasingly technological world. With computers and automation everywhere we turn, does working with our hands and doing things the old-fashioned way even have a place in educating our modern day children?
In this workshop, we’ll dive into the timeless benefits of hands-on learning through handicrafts and how we can incorporate them into our homeschool in a way that will bring your family together, inspire creativity, and lay the foundation for a rich and broad home education.
Classical Education for the Average Student, by Aimee Smith
Is classical education only for the academic elite? Not so! Classical education can benefit the gifted student, the struggling student, and the average student for one simple reason: no student is truly average. Each student is unique. The classical model of education has been used throughout history to educate all types of people by focusing on stages of development, skills for life-long learning, and the great conversations of history. Because of these basic principles, classical education can be for any student. Come learn the basics of classical education and the potential benefits for your family.
The Power and Purpose of a Classical Christian Education, by Justina of Jus’ Classical
Classical education is time-tested, and sets children up for success in learning as they go through three stages of learning: knowledge, understanding and wisdom. Christian classical education gives children the tools to use their God-given gifts, seek truth, reach their fullest potential, & love others.
Encouragement for Homeschoolers
Thinking Outside the Box with Your Child’s Education to Best Prepare Them for Life, by Amber Stephens
Do you often wonder how to teach real-life skills to your children? Or how to fit in the extras between math and writing? This workshop will help you discover how to think outside the box when it comes to your child’s education. We will explore ideas such as entrepreneurship, animal husbandry, outside resources that can be used for school, like 4H and other similar topics, no matter the age of your children!
The Hidden Gift of Homeschooling with Chronic Illness, by Aimee Smith
How often have you wondered if you should quit homeschooling because of your illness or other chronic problem? Homeschooling is hard, but homeschooling with chronic illness can feel downright impossible. In the midst of the struggle, however, a hidden gift exists. This gift will help you do more than merely survive. Your struggle might eventually be the factor that causes your family’s homeschool to thrive. Come learn to recognize 5 hidden gifts from your illness and adjust your homeschool to experience beautiful success.
3 Things I Learned From 31 Years of Homeschooling, by Kathie Morrissey
When my youngest son finished the last lesson of his school year, it was a bittersweet week for me. Our other seven kids had graduated from our homeschool, and then after 31 years of homeschooling, my last one had graduated. The reality hit me: I was no longer a homeschooling mom.
So after all those years invested, I found myself thinking about what makes homeschooling successful. What did I learn from homeschooling? I could sit down and tell you many, many things that I have learned over the years. However, in this session I’m going to narrow it down to the most important 3 things I learned from 31 years of homeschooling.
How to Homeschool with a Chronic Illness or a Stressful Life Event, by Lesa Rumbalski
Drawing on my own experience with multiple miscarriages and chronic health issues, I will be sharing how you can still homeschool your children through stressful life events. We will be discussing techniques to help you along the way, as well as encouragement.
Make Your Strengths & Weaknesses Work for You in Your Homeschool, by Richie Soares
Each of us is wonderfully unique. No two people are alike and that is a very good thing. There’s no reason to pretend we are great at everything and avoid or bury our weaknesses altogether. Learn to teach your kids successfully in your homeschool by making the most of your strengths while acknowledging and working on your weaknesses for the ultimate victory in your homeschool.
Other Approaches to Homeschooling
How and Why to Use an Eclectic Approach to Homeschooling, by Katie Wolfe
Using an “Eclectic Approach” to homeschooling is something you may have heard tossed around your homeschool circle or read about in a FaceBook group. But, have you ever stopped to think about what that really means? Or wondered why and how you might use an eclectic approach? Katie will share with you how using an eclectic approach to homeschooling can be more than just piecing together curriculum. It can be a philosophy that transforms your homeschool!
Geek Schooling: Enjoy Fun Delight Directed Learning at Home, by Kimberly Charron
End the frustrating struggle through your homeschool day. Learn how to enjoy easy, delight directed learning with your kids. You’ll be surprised by how much your child is already learning on their own through their geeky interests, whether it’s Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, or superheroes.
How To Create A Unit Study For Any Subject, by Richie Soares
There are times to follow the script and lesson plans of the old faithful curriculum. And then there are times to hop off and forge your own path into the curious world of a deeper subject. Did you know you can use unit studies alongside your curriculum or as your curriculum for a deeper learning experience? Learn how to create a unit study for any subject so your kids can deep dive into subjects to satisfy their curious minds (and yours too!) while still covering all the basics.
The Traditional Homeschooler’s Guide to Unschooling, by Becky Ogden
Are you butting heads with your child over homeschooling? If so, Kerry’s interview with Becky will encourage you and give you practical tips. Plus, you’ll discover the difference between relaxed homeschooling and unschooling, pros and cons of unschooling, as well as show you how you can get started with unschooling if you’re interested.
Planning & Organization
Three Questions to Ask Yourself Before the New Homeschool Year, by Katie J Trent
Katie shares the why, what, and how to help you improve your homeschool and set you up for success year after year. These three simple questions will prepare you to organize your homeschool so you can work smarter, not harder. They will empower you through difficult days, and help you plan a year filled with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Creating Accountability for You as a Homeschool Leader; Your Teaching Binder, by Amber Smith
Did you experience frustration in your homeschool last year? Maybe your kids did not complete tasks that were simple yet they continued to remain undone. I’ve been there. When I had an opportunity to work away from home a few years ago, I though my children would maintain the routine we had established over the last ten years of homeschooling. Boy was I wrong! Instead of getting frustrated, I realized we need clear expectations and accountability for ALL of us. In this work shop I share how I work away from home part time and keep our homeschool intact and actually succeeding.
Homeschool Minimalism, by Annette Breedlove
Hear from a homeschooling mom of 6 who went from an entire room full of homeschool curriculum, books, and manipulatives in a 3500 square foot home to a 37′ RV traveling the country without compromising their homeschool. Annette is a reformed homeschool curriculum junkie who found freedom in reducing her stash and taking her family on the road with less.
It All Boils Down to This…Consistency & Margin, by Jennifer Merckling
Jen shares how Consistency & Margin can make or break our homeschools–and how we can put these simple, but important principals into practice!
To Grade or Not to Grade?, by Linda Lacour Hobar
Shaped by our personality types, grades have the power to motivate some and the propensity to destroy others! So, how do you decide when to grade or not to grade? Join Linda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History, and a veteran homeschool mom, for varying theories on grade keeping, tips for grading numerous subjects, and practical ideas for managing the grades you choose to keep. With Linda’s “real life” examples from the work of her own children, this session is designed to encourage both new and experienced homeschool teachers.
How to Find the Right Curriculum for Your Homeschool Family, by Lesa Rumbalski
Take the stress out of finding the right curriculum for your family. I will be discussing ways to discover the right curricula for your family’s needs and family dynamic, such as ages and activities in which your children are involved. I will also share what to do when a curriculum doesn’t work and what to do next.
Parenting & Faith
Teaching Christ-Centered Character in Your Homeschool, by Tauna Meyer
As homeschool parents we have a lot things to juggle as we teach and train our children. One of the most important things we must focus on during these precious few years is to teach Christ-centered character. How do we do that effectively, biblically, and with so many other spinning plates to manage? Tauna Meyer, experienced homeschool mom of 6 and owner at ProverbialHomemaker.com, shares practical tips and encouragement to help you do just that!
Fun, Faith-Building Activities for the Family, by Katie J Trent
How do we incorporate meaningful faith-building activities into our homeschool without spending an excessive amount of time, money, or energy? Katie shares secrets to grow your faith, strengthen your family, and simplify your homeschool as you make faith-building a family affair.
Why Our Homeschool Bible Time Can’t Stay in the Shallow End, by Abby Banks
Giving your kids and teens Bible scraps will not produce disciples that can withstand the secular culture. Studies show that 2/3 of young adults raised in evangelical churches are leaving the faith. Do your teens know what they believe? How can you equip your children to be strong in the faith? How can you be sure that you don’t present the Bible in shallow ways in your homeschool?
Dealing With A Difficult Child, by Kathie Morrissey
Do you struggle with a child who is difficult or challenging? A child that often causes you exasperation? One who takes more time and energy than all your other children put together? How do you respond to the resentment or anger he stirs up in you? How do you respond to him? There IS hope and help!! Get answers to these questions that will encourage you and help you to deal wisely and lovingly with that child!
Training Character for Greatness: Manners & Etiquette, by Britton LaTulippe
Somewhere in my childhood, I got it in my head that manners and etiquette were old fashioned and superficial. However, by my sophomore year at boarding school, I finally understood the truth: manners and etiquette are the rules of respectability and so important that even great kings didn’t dare disobey them. And today, they are still the finishing touches of an elite education because those who master the art of manners and etiquette will appear as the natural leaders of society.
Don’t Miss the Mark! How to Keep Family Relationships a Priority in Your Homeschool, by Amber Smith
When you talk about homeschooling needs, the conversation tends to focus on the academic requirements facing your students. After all those are the results that are going to be measured each year. But, if you fail to establish deep and meaningful relationships with your children, then you have failed to embrace the greatest gift homeschooling offers you as a leader your family. Let’s talk about keeping relationships in focus as you plan and execute your homeschool year.