HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Looking for fun ways to help your child improve their handwriting? In this episode, you’ll discover creative handwriting practice ideas that feel more like play than schoolwork. 

Whether your child is just learning to hold a pencil or working on refining their cursive, you’ll find practical tips and engaging tools to support handwriting at every stage—from toddlers to teens.

Want more? Visit the article that goes with this episode for curriculum suggestions, handwriting paper tips, product links, and an interview with an occupational therapist:

HomeSchoolThinkTank.com/homeschool-handwriting-curriculum

© 2018...

Have you ever wondered if you're doing enough to help your child learn to read?

In this conversation, I sit down with Margaret Craig, an award-winning Reading Recovery teacher and author of The Young Reader. With decades of experience teaching literacy in public and private schools, Margaret shares simple, effective strategies that parents can use to help their children become confident readers.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Have you ever said—or even just thought—the words, “I’m just a mom”? If so, I recorded this episode for you.

As a former stay-at-home mom and now a homeschooling consultant and life coach, I want to remind you of something important: you are never just a mom. Your role matters more than you know—not only in your home, but in the world.

Whether you're homeschooling, raising little ones, navigating the teen years, or parenting adult children, I hope this episode helps you feel seen, appreciated, and inspired.

👉 If this speaks to your...

Are you curious about what "traditional homeschooling" or "school-at-home" really means?

In this episode, we’re unpacking the traditional homeschooling model, why so many families begin with it, and the challenges that often inspire parents to explore alternative approaches.

Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to refine your methods, this episode will help you understand the "school-at-home" model and introduce you to other homeschooling options.

Join us for practical insights, helpful resources, and encouragement to create a homeschool experience that works for your family!

HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC. All Rights Rese...

She had no umbrella.
No rush in her step.
Just a smile—deep, genuine, and unforgettable.

This moment was memorable, and I couldn’t help but relate it to the hard seasons of parenting, homeschooling, and life.

Will it do the same for you?

HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC.  All Rights Reserved. Est. 2018.

Do you and your kids want to dive deeper into the stories and lessons of history?

Our curated collection of engaging history podcasts makes learning fun and easy for the whole family!

With access to over 2,000 hours and 1,000 episodes covering a wide range of historical topics, there's something for everyone.

Plus, our advanced podcast search tool allows you to quickly find information about any historical event or person you’re curious about.

Whether you're a homeschooling family or simply looking for an easy way to explore history through engaging podcasts, this ep...

Do you ever feel like your own thoughts are holding you back?

Whether it’s doubting your ability to homeschool your kids, struggling with self-doubt, or feeling overwhelmed, the way you talk to yourself can have a powerful impact on you and your family.

Discover how small mindset shifts can lead to big changes in your homeschooling experience - and life.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of mindset and how shifting your self-talk can create a ripple effect in your home.

Click below to learn more about ho...

Can nature really improve your child’s focus, reduce stress, and make homeschooling easier?

In this episode, I’m joined by environmental author Sandi Schwartz to explore the powerful connection between nature, learning, and mental health.

Whether you live in the city, suburbs, or countryside, you’ll discover simple ways to bring more nature into your homeschooling routine—no hiking boots required!

Tune in to learn:

Looking for a fun, low-prep way to teach math and connect as a family?

In this episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite go-to games—packed with laughter, learning, and creativity. It’s simple, screen-free, and secretly educational.

You’ll hear how you can use it to teach math concepts like addition, multiplication, and pattern recognition—plus fun twists to keep it fresh.

🎲 Want to turn game night into learning time?

Every parent wants their child to feel loved, safe, and valued—but how do you make that happen?

In this episode, I share a simple - but powerful - approach to parenting that strengthens connection and understanding.

Whether you’re raising a toddler, a teen, or any age in between, you’ll find actionable advice you can start using today.

Tune in now to discover how you can help your child feel truly understood—and bring more peace and connection to your parenting journey.

Ready to learn more about positive parenting?

Cl...

Have you ever wondered what unschooling really is? We're unpacking what unschooling is, what it isn’t, and how it works in real life.

You'll also hear a bit about the history of unschooling, including key figures like John Holt and the ideas that shaped this unique approach to education.

If you're curious about giving your kids more freedom in their learning—or just want to understand unschooling better—this episode will give you the clarity you need.

Listen now to explore the world of unschooling!

Want to dive deeper? Discover videos...

What happens when a dyslexic kid grows up to illustrate some of the most vibrant children’s books about science and diversity?

In this episode, meet David Lee Csicsko—the artist behind Science People, The Skin You Live In, and more. He shares how art, curiosity, and determination shaped his path. You’ll hear surprising stories, meet fascinating scientists through his work, and discover how his books can spark big conversations in your homeschool.

🎨 Click here to watch the full interview and explore David’s books.

📬 Get helpful homeschooling tips, strategies, and support—sign up for our n...

Parenting and homeschooling can be rewarding, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. This week, I’m opening up about one of the toughest weeks I’ve had in a long time. I almost didn’t share this episode because it feels so personal, but I know I’m not the only parent who sometimes struggles.

In this candid episode, I take you behind the scenes of my own life—sharing the challenges, the emotions, and how I work through it all. You’ll hear how I navigate tough parenting moments, shift my mindset, and find the streng...

Did you know that just a few decades ago, parents in America weren't sure if homeschooling was legal? 

Have you ever considered what it would be like to homeschool your kids if you weren't even sure it was allowed?

In this podcast episode, I interview Cathy Duffy, a pioneer homeschooling parent and curriculum expert.

With 40 years of experience in the homeschooling world, Cathy shares her insights on homeschooling and the role of government in education. 

Whether you're new to homeschooling or looking to improve your approach, this episode is packed with pr...

What if learning could feel more like play? In this episode, we’re diving into the world of gameschooling—an approach that makes homeschooling fun and effective.

Discover how educational games can help your kids learn core subjects while building life skills like patience, communication, and problem-solving.

Curious to find out more? Plus, don’t miss the accompanying article—with dozens of game recommendations organized by subject area.

Click here to discover fun & educational games for your kids.

Find the perfect game to help your child learn about a specific subject area, fo...

Have you ever considered the difference between education and schooling?

While many people assume they’re the same, understanding the distinction can significantly impact how we guide and teach our children.

In this episode, we explore what education truly means and how it goes far beyond the walls of a classroom, textbooks, or standardized tests.

We’ll discuss the key differences between education and schooling and why this matters to your family.

Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just starting your journey, understanding what education truly means can transform your approach.

If your child struggles with big emotions, negative thoughts, or self-doubt, this episode is for you. Therapist Kim Restivo Lange shares practical strategies to help kids manage their emotions, along with actionable ideas to help you support your child’s emotional growth.

In this conversation, we discuss:

Plus, Kim has created a helpful resource just for you!

Click he...

Want to make learning more engaging and meaningful for your kids? Project-based learning (PBL) is a powerful way to spark curiosity, creativity, and real-world problem-solving—all while keeping your homeschool dynamic and exciting.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

Plus, I’ve got a free resource to help you get started!

Click here to grab 50 Project Ideas to Inspire Curious Kids.<...

Ever wondered, "Who am I, really?" It's easy to get lost in the roles of parent, homeschool teacher, mom, dad, or your job title.

In this episode, we dive into the differences between your role and your identity and explore how they impact each other.

Join the conversation as we peel back these layers and discover ways to connect with our true selves.

It’s going to be a revealing chat, so don’t miss out!

Discover how life coaching can empower homeschooling parents. Sign up for a free consultation and get...

Want to explore museums without spending a fortune?

In this episode, I’m sharing how you can save big on museum visits with a little-known membership perk that offers access to hundreds of museums—science museums, art museums, history museums, and even botanical gardens—at a fraction of the cost.

Whether planning local outings or traveling with your family, this simple strategy can open the doors to amazing educational experiences without breaking the bank.

Tune in to discover how to get the most out of your museum visits and where to find the best de...

If you listened to the recent episode with Sandi Schwartz about boosting your child’s mental health through nature, you might have noticed a little hiccup—I accidentally released the episode before it was supposed to go live!

That means the blog post for the "5-Day Nature Learning Challenge" wasn’t ready yet. But don’t worry—it’s all fixed now!

Click the link below to access the challenge, along with some additional resources we didn’t cover in the episode. 

HomeSchoolThinkTank.com/Nature-Schooling/

Thanks so much for your patience and understandi...

When was the last time you didn't feel like doing something?

Did you give in, or did you push through the moment and do what you had planned?

In this episode, we talk about how you can get yourself and your kids to "do the planned thing" even when you don't feel like it.

Let's turn those moments of reluctance into valuable teaching opportunities for your kids.

You can learn more about my life coaching services for parents here:

https://homeschoolthinktank.com/life-coaching-for-parents/

© 2018–2025 HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC...

Are you ready to make homeschooling fun, meaningful, and rewarding for your family?

In this episode, I share five powerful keys to creating a homeschool experience that both you and your kids will love.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been homeschooling for years, these practical tips and insights will help you approach each day with confidence, joy, and ease.

Tune in now to discover how to transform your homeschooling journey.

Grab my free course on homeschooling by clicking here.

For even more resources, visit the article co...

Are schools truly preparing children for success, or are they instilling hidden lessons that shape their thinking in ways we don’t even realize?

In this episode, we explore Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto—an eye-opening book that uncovers seven hidden lessons deeply embedded in modern education.

If you're a homeschooling parent or considering alternatives to traditional schooling, this episode will empower you with valuable insights to take control of your child's education.

🎧 Tune in now to discover what schools are really teaching—and how you can break free.

👉 Click here to...

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to complain—but how little it actually helps? We all do it sometimes, but what if there was a simple way to shift from complaining to taking action?

In this episode, we’re exploring a powerful mindset shift that can change the way you approach challenges in homeschooling, parenting, and life.

If you’re ready to feel more in control and less stuck, this conversation is for you.

🎧 Press play now and start making the change.

👉 Book a free consultation with me:

 HomeSchoo...

Are you looking for a simple, effective way to spark your child's curiosity and make learning come alive in your homeschool?

In this episode, I dive into the world of strewing - a powerful, yet often overlooked, tool that can transform your homeschooling experience.

Learn what strewing is and how to use it to create a rich, engaging learning environment that inspires your child to explore, discover, and grow.

Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned pro, this episode will give you practical tips and fresh ideas to make learning feel na...

Ever found yourself wondering how to set effective boundaries with parents, friends, or family? You’re not alone!

There’s a common misconception about boundaries that I’m going to help clear up in this episode.

I'll guide you through a more empowering way to set boundaries with the people in your life.

As a homeschooling consultant and certified life coach, I’m here not only to support your homeschooling journey but also to help you navigate other areas of your life.

If you’re ready for help with homeschooling or want to ex...

Struggling to help your child with handwriting? You’re not alone! In this episode, occupational therapist Polly Benson shares her expert tips and creative strategies to make handwriting fun and effective for kids of all ages.

From teaching pencil grip to strengthening fine motor skills, Polly explains how everyday activities (and even Dollar Store finds!) can transform your child’s writing abilities.

Whether you’re working with a beginning writer or an older child facing handwriting challenges, you’ll discover practical solutions and inspiring ideas to support their success.

Plus, learn about Polly’s innovati...

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of parenting? I’ve been there, and I want you to know—you’re not alone.

In this episode, I’m sharing how life coaching transformed my life and how it can help you improve your life and tackle the challenges of parenting with more confidence and less stress.

Whether you’re struggling with time management, setting boundaries, or simply feeling stuck, life coaching offers practical tools to help you thrive—not just as a parent, but as a person.

Tune in to discover how life coaching can...

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you allowed your child's natural curiosity to drive their learning?

In this episode, we discuss the concept of child-led learning and how to use this approach in your homeschool.

You'll discover some benefits of allowing your child’s interests to guide their education and how this approach can foster independence and a lifelong love of learning.

Tune in for ideas about how to balance structure with freedom.

Click the link below to learn about a variety of homeschooling methods:

https://homeschoolthinktank.co...

Are you looking for ways to help your child focus, manage emotions, stay busy, or have more fun while learning? 

In this episode, we dive into the incredible benefits of sensory toys and why they’re not just for kids with sensory needs—they’re for every child! 

Discover how these engaging tools can support emotional regulation, boost focus, and build essential skills like problem-solving.

Whether you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift or want to introduce something new and meaningful to your child’s routine, sensory toys can make a real difference.

Ready...

Do you ever catch yourself stuck in negative self-talk or doubting your worth?

You're not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing how to reset your mindset by focusing on the things you genuinely like about yourself.

I’ll walk you through a simple 30-day challenge that can help you replace negativity with self-appreciation—and set a powerful example for your kids.

Join me for practical tips, encouragement, and a reminder that your value starts with how you see yourself. Let’s shift that mindset together!

Click here to learn more about my...

Have you ever felt unwanted, unworthy, or like you didn’t belong? In this episode, I share a powerful story about a little boy who deserved more love than he received—and the lesson it holds for all of us.

Whether you’ve struggled with rejection, questioned your worth, or found parenting more challenging than expected, this episode will shift your perspective.

You'll discover why your worth isn’t defined by how others treat you and how your mindset as a parent impacts your child’s sense of self-worth.

Plus, if parenting feels overwhelmi...

Are you familiar with the three main learning styles: visual, kinesthetic, and auditory?

In this episode, we explore each style and give you practical insights to help teach your child more effectively based on their unique way of learning.

Whether your child thrives through seeing, doing, or listening, this episode will equip you with valuable tools to enhance your homeschool approach.

Discover more about how kids learn:

Have you wondered how to homeschool your kids using a unit studies approach?

In this episode, learn more about unit studies and why many families like this type of homeschooling.

Get more unit study ideas here...

https://homeschoolthinktank.com/unit-studies-for-homeschool/

Are you giving your power away without even realizing it? If you’ve ever felt dismissed, overlooked, or stuck in self-doubt, this episode is for you.

Discover how to recognize the subtle ways you might be surrendering your confidence and learn practical steps to reclaim it.

It’s time to stop second-guessing yourself and start making decisions with clarity and purpose.

Tune in and take the first step toward owning your power—and your life.

HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Established, 2018.

Mary Gallagher is a reading specialist and literacy coach, homeschooling and school choice advocate, and author of "Teach a Child to Read with Children's Books."

Her specialty is helping children fall in love with reading so they will become independent readers.

Get a free chapter here...

https://homeschoolthinktank.com/teach-a-child-to-read-with-childrens-books/

p.s. We are replaying this interview because it is still relevant and helpful to homeschooling parents.

Recorded September 29, 2020.  Originally published on October 13, 2020.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list and those tasks you keep putting off? In this episode, we dive into the power of taking care of business—the not-so-fun stuff that’s been hanging over your head.

Discover simple strategies to tackle those dreaded tasks, lighten your mental load, and free yourself to show up with more energy and enthusiasm for your family.

It’s time to clear the physical and mental clutter and reclaim your peace of mind. 

Learn more about my life coaching services for parents: https://homeschoolthinktank.com/life-co...

What if you could break the habit of yelling and create a more peaceful homeschool environment?

As parents, we know that yelling isn't good for our kids.

Additionally, constant yelling can damage your relationship with your children and create a stressful learning atmosphere.

In this episode, I share the steps that helped me stop yelling for good.

Tune in to learn practical strategies to stay calm, identify triggers, reset your mindset, and use effective communication techniques. 

By the end of this episode, you'll have concrete tools to foster a mo...

In this episode, I explore a unique perspective on homeschooling that often goes unspoken.

While it's natural for homeschooling parents to focus on what their kids consume - whether it’s books, lessons, or curriculum - there’s another side to learning that’s just as important: creation. 

Join me as I dive into why encouraging your children to create can enhance their homeschool experience.

© 2018–2025 HomeSchool...