
Hosted by Indiana Association of Home Educators · EN

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, host Amy Bragdon and Amanda Runge reminisce about their own experiences growing up as homeschool students. They share memories and laughter as they reflect on what homeschooling looked like when they were kids and discuss how the homeschool world has changed over the years. Amy and Amanda also talk about what it’s like now that they’re homeschooling their own children, offering encouragement to today’s homeschooling families along the way. KEYWORDS homeschooling, second-generation homeschoolers, homeschooling journey, homeschooling memories, homeschool challenges, homeschool community, homeschooling tips, homeschool success, IAHE TAKEAWAYS Homeschooling lets families tailor schedules and learning to their children’s needs Homeschooled kids have many opportunities to learn beyond the classroom The growing homeschool community offers co-ops, sports, and other activities not available in the early days of homeschooling. Homeschooling gives kids time to pursue their interests. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ Check out Cathy Duffy’s Homeschool Curriculum Reviews>>> https://cathyduffyreviews.com/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, host Amy Bragdon speaks with Kimberly Farley, Vice President of Operations at the Classic Learning Test (CLT). They discuss the purpose and philosophy behind the CLT, which serves as an alternative to traditional college entrance exams like the ACT and SAT. The conversation covers the structure and accessibility of the tests, the importance of analytics for homeschoolers, scholarship opportunities, and the shift in standardized testing. They emphasize the significance of reading and critical thinking in education and how the CLT aligns with the values of homeschooling families. KEYWORDS Classic Learning Test, CLT, homeschooling, college entrance exams, standardized testing, scholarship opportunities, reading comprehension, critical thinking, IAHE TAKEAWAYS The Classic Learning Test (CLT) is an alternative to ACT and SAT. The test includes timeless texts to assess reading, grammar, writing, and mathematics. Homeschoolers find CLT beneficial as it aligns with their educational philosophy. Analytics from testing can help parents identify strengths and weaknesses in their children's education. Scholarship opportunities are available for high-scoring CLT students. The mission of CLT is to reconnect knowledge and virtue in education. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ For more info on the upcoming homeschool conference or to register>>> https://iahe.net/events-page/homeschool-conference/ Learn more about the CLT>>> https://www.cltexam.com/

In this engaging episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Dr. Jay Wile, founder of the Berean Builders science curriculum, shares his journey from a science enthusiast to a homeschooling advocate, emphasizing the importance of pursuing passions, understanding the history of science, and integrating faith into science education. Homeschooling parents will receive practical advice on balancing interests and core subjects, and helping their children prepare for college or life beyond school. KEYWORDS homeschooling, science education, faith and science, homeschooling passions, curriculum advice, college prep, homeschooling tips, Berean Builders, homeschool science, IAHE TAKEAWAYS Science explored through faith helps us appreciate God’s creation. The early church was pivotal in the development of science. Understanding the history of science can deepen our appreciation for it. It’s important to balance pursuing interests with core subjects. Exploring passions can teach valuable lessons. Part of training up children is teaching them to be responsible members of society. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ Visit the Berean Builders website>>> https://bereanbuilders.com/ecomm/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, host Amy Bragdon speaks with Wendy Ng, a dual-enrollment admissions counselor at Cedarville University and a fellow homeschool mom. They discuss Wendy's personal homeschooling journey, the importance of preparing children for life beyond academics, and the role of faith in education. Wendy shares insights on consistency, teaching life skills, and encouraging independence in high school students. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to trust in God's plan for their children and to foster a supportive learning environment that prepares them for future challenges. KEYWORDS homeschooling, dual enrollment, college preparation, life skills, home education, IAHE, Cedarville University TAKEAWAYS Homeschooling is about preparing kids for life, not just college. Consistency in daily routines is crucial for effective homeschooling. Teaching life skills is as important as academic education. Encouraging independence in high school students is essential. Parents should trust God with their children's future. Daily teaching moments can have a lasting impact. Dual enrollment can provide valuable experiences for students. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ For more info on the upcoming homeschool conference or to register>>> https://iahe.net/events-page/homeschool-conference/ Explore what Cedarville University has to offer>>> https://www.cedarville.edu/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, host Amy Bragdon speaks with Darren Jones from the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) about the evolving landscape of homeschooling. They discuss the importance of finding the right homeschool group, the role of parental involvement, and the resources available for families. Darren shares insights on starting new groups and the historical context of homeschooling laws, emphasizing the need for awareness and advocacy in the homeschooling community. The conversation also highlights Darren’s upcoming workshops at the IAHE conference in March 2026. KEYWORDS homeschooling, HSLDA, homeschool groups, co-ops, parental involvement, home education, homeschool conference, homeschool laws, history of homeschooling, IAHE TAKEAWAYS Parents should look for homeschool groups that fit their children's needs. Homeschool co-ops can vary greatly in structure and expectations. It's important to have a code of conduct in homeschool groups. Parents should be aware of the legal definitions of homeschooling. Parental involvement is key to successful homeschooling. Starting a new homeschool group requires a clear vision. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ For more info on the upcoming homeschool conference or to register>>> https://iahe.net/events-page/homeschool-conference/ Learn more about HSLDA and becoming a member>>> https://hslda.org/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, host Amy Bragdon speaks with Jonathan Brush, CEO of Unbound, about the innovative educational programs designed to help young adults thrive. They discuss the importance of skills beyond academics, the role of community in education, and how Unbound prepares students for real-world challenges. Brush addresses parental concerns about alternative education and emphasizes the need for resilience in navigating career choices. The conversation highlights the value of transferable skills, the impact of technology on career paths, and the importance of engaging with homeschool conventions. KEYWORDS Unbound, homeschooling, education, career preparation, skills training, community, IAHE, real-world experience, transferable skills TAKEAWAYS Unbound trains young adults to thrive in life and career. The program focuses on both academic and non-academic skills. Real-world experience is crucial for career readiness. Community support enhances the educational experience. Students can gain confidence through hands-on learning. Technology is rapidly changing career landscapes. Transferable skills are valuable across various industries. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ For more info on the upcoming homeschool conference or to register>>> https://iahe.net/events-page/homeschool-conference/ Learn more about Unbound>>> https://beunbound.us/

In this episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Tara Bentley and Kylene Varner provide a mid-session legislative update, focusing on key bills that impact homeschooling and parental rights. They discuss various bills, including those related to grandparent visitation and domestic violence, and highlight the implications of a proposed consumption tax. The conversation also covers positive developments, such as the Classic Learning Test being recognized as an alternative to traditional standardized tests. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to stay informed and engaged in legislative matters affecting education. KEYWORDS homeschooling, legislation, legislative update, Indiana, education policy, parental rights, consumption tax, CLT, federal legislation, homeschool legislation, IAHE TAKEAWAYS IAHE Action tracks thousands of legislative documents and bills. Certain bills, like SB 52, could negatively impact parental rights. Consumption tax could disproportionately affect low-income families and homeschoolers. House Bill 1318 raised significant concerns about child welfare and parental rights. Senate Bill 88 aims to make the Classic Learning Test an accepted alternative to SAT/ACT. Federal legislation is emerging that could impact homeschooling rights. Advocacy and community involvement are crucial for protecting homeschooling freedoms. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ Stay informed about legislation that could affect homeschool families and see how IAHE Action is protecting those families>>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/931827063569402 Stay up-to-date about current Indiana legislative sessions and bills - and contact your rep>>> https://iga.in.gov/

In this episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Tara Bentley interviews Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), and a speaker at this year’s IAHE Parenting and Homeschool Conference. They discuss the evolution of IEW, the importance of writing as a form of thinking, and the challenges posed by technology and AI in education. Andrew emphasizes the need for traditional writing methods and the significance of reading aloud to children. He also shares valuable resources for new homeschoolers and highlights the impact of his teachings on families over the years. KEYWORDS homeschooling, IAHE, writing, education, Andrew Pudewa, IEW, teaching methods, technology in education, AI in writing, classical education, parenting, homeschool conference TAKEAWAYS Writing is fundamentally about clear thinking and idea expression. Input through reading and listening is crucial for effective writing. Technology can hinder cognitive development in children. Minimizing screen time can enhance children's language skills. Grammar is foundational to effective communication and thinking. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ For more info on the upcoming homeschool conference or to register>>> https://iahe.net/events-page/homeschool-conference/ Explore IEW>>>https://iew.com/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, Dr. Nate Bosch from Grace College discusses his dual role as the director of the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams and Dean of the School of Science and Engineering. He shares insights on the importance of hands-on learning, the benefits of a smaller college environment, and how Grace College prepares students for careers in environmental science. The conversation also highlights the partnership with homeschooling families and the various educational opportunities available for K-12 students. KEYWORDS Grace College, homeschooling, IAHE, environmental science career, Lilly Center, hands-on learning, college preparation, internships, small college benefits, career readiness TAKEAWAYS Hands-on learning is essential for effective education. Internships are crucial for building resumes before graduation. Smaller colleges provide personalized attention to students. Homeschoolers often excel in college due to their skills. Environmental education can inspire future careers. The transition from homeschool to college can be smooth. Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ Learn more about the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams>>> https://lakes.grace.edu/

In this episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Tara Bentley sits down with Todd Wilson, a well-known voice in the homeschooling community, to talk about his journey into homeschooling and the heart behind his work. Together, they explore the importance of strong family relationships, the value of community and support, and how encouragement can make a lasting difference for homeschool parents. Todd shares practical insights on overcoming doubt, celebrating everyday wins, and finding joy in the learning process, offering encouragement to families at every stage of their homeschool journey. KEYWORDS homeschooling, IAHE, home education, homeschool conferences, homeschool community, encouragement TAKEAWAYS Parents often doubt their ability to homeschool their children, but are more than capable Children are unique masterpieces with different strengths Conferences provide valuable resources and connections for homeschool families It’s important to focus on what truly matters when homeschooling The homeschooling journey is ongoing and evolves over time Record a Question or a Comment for the Podcast >>> https://iahe.net/homeschool-indiana-podcast/ Support the work of the IAHE by becoming a member today >>> https://iahe.net/join/ Join the conversation! >>> https://www.facebook.com/groups/IAHEchat/ Learn more about The Smiling Homeschooler and listen to the podcast >>> https://thesmilinghomeschooler.com/ Explore The Familyman website and listen to the podcast here >>> https://familymanweb.com/