Tune In
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeart Radio | Pandora
From Public School to Homeschool: My Personal Tale
Hello, fellow parents and educators! I’m Katie, the voice behind the Joy at Home podcast and a homeschooling mom to three wonderful children. My journey into the world of homeschooling began amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a time of uncertainty, but it led me to discover my passion for guiding other moms as they embark on their own homeschooling adventures.
The Power of Community: A Conversation with Kelsey Sorensen
In a recent episode, I had the pleasure of conversing with Kelsey Sorensen, a former school teacher turned homeschool mom, certified life coach, and the host of the Educate and Rejuvenate event and podcast. Our discussion delved into the heart of homeschooling—addressing the misconceptions and sharing the truths that empower us as educators of our children.
Debunking the Myths: You Are Qualified
One of the most pervasive lies we homeschool moms encounter is the feeling of being unqualified to teach our children. Kelsey and I tackled this head-on, emphasizing the wealth of resources and support available to us. We shared personal anecdotes to inspire others to recognize their innate capabilities. I remember feeling overwhelmed at first, but I soon realized that my dedication to my children’s education was the most important qualification I needed.
Redefining Success: Every Child’s Unique Journey
Another common concern is the fear that our children are falling behind or that we are failing them. Kelsey and I discussed the importance of stepping away from the comparison game. Homeschooling offers the freedom to tailor education to our children’s individual interests and talents. We explored the concept of being “behind,” advocating for a personalized approach to learning that celebrates each child’s unique educational path.
Celebrating Progress: The Gap and The Gain
During our chat, Kelsey introduced the concept of “the gap and the gain” from Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy’s book. It’s a powerful reminder to focus on the progress we’ve made rather than an elusive ideal. I shared how my children memorized an entire chapter of the Bible by breaking it down into smaller segments, illustrating the impact of incremental progress.
Energizing Our Days: The Importance of Self-Care
We also touched on the significance of starting each day with activities that energize us, like yoga or dance. This holistic approach to homeschooling emphasizes the need for self-care to enhance our ability to teach and make learning a joyous experience.
Looking Forward: The Educate and Rejuvenate Event
The upcoming Educate and Rejuvenate event is a beacon for homeschooling moms seeking professional and personal development. Kelsey gave us a sneak peek into the event’s offerings, which cater to both homeschoolers and teachers. It’s an opportunity to learn new skills, manage emotions, and connect with a community that understands the unique challenges and rewards of homeschooling.
My Upcoming Talk: Transitioning with Ease
I’m thrilled to be speaking at the event, where I’ll share my family’s transition from public school to homeschooling, complete with humorous anecdotes (like the one about our pet turtle!). I’ll also outline three simple steps to help other families make the switch smoothly.
Join Us on This Adventure
Kelsey and I are excited to continue supporting and empowering homeschooling families. We invite you to subscribe to our podcasts and join us at the Educate and Rejuvenate event. You can find me on social media for more homeschooling resources, and Kelsey is rebranding her website and preparing to launch her upcoming book.
In Closing: A Grateful Heart
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to co-create this episode with Kelsey. It’s conversations like these that reinforce the beauty and strength of the homeschooling community. We’re in this together, learning and growing one day at a time. Join us on this incredible journey, and let’s continue to uplift each other every step of the way.
Join Kelsey and Katie online at the Educate and Rejuvenate event. Grab your ticket here!
