
Hosted by Indiana Association of Home Educators · EN

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/

In this episode of the IAHE Action’s takeover of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Kylene Varner speaks with Crystal Callender and Jill Wildermuth about their experiences in homeschooling and their work as part of the IAHE Action team. They discuss the challenges and rewards of advocating for homeschooling rights, the importance of understanding local and state government, and the role of faith in their advocacy work. The conversation highlights the significance of building relationships in politics and the impact of involvement in the legislative process. KEYWORDS homeschooling, government affairs, IAHE, IAHE Action, advocacy, state government, local politics, local government, legislative process, homeschool laws TAKEAWAYS Local and state politics are where we can have the most significant impact. Building relationships with legislators is key to influencing change. Local and state government decisions impact our everyday lives. Engaging children in political discussions fosters awareness. Politics is a long game that requires patience. Community involvement is essential for preserving 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/ Learn more about IAHE Action or get involved>>>https://www.iaheaction.net/ Join the IAHE Action Facebook page>>>https://www.facebook.com/groups/931827063569402

In this episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Tara Bentley and Kylene Varner introduce the first-ever IAHE Action Takeover, which will feature interviews with Indiana legislators—beginning with the conversation that follows their introduction. Their overview of IAHE Action’s founding and mission leads seamlessly into Kylene’s interview with Representative Bob Behning. Together, Klyene and Representative Behning explore the importance of parental engagement in education, the role IAHE Action plays in supporting homeschool families, and key insights into how legislation takes shape. The episode also emphasizes the value of homeschoolers staying informed and involved in the legislative process and the impact of building strong relationships with lawmakers. KEYWORDS homeschooling, education policy, Indiana legislature, parental engagement, IAHE, IAHE Action, school choice, education reform, legislative process TAKEAWAYS IAHE Action was established to advocate for homeschooling rights. Parental engagement is crucial for student success. Technology is changing the way knowledge is transferred in education. Homeschoolers should engage with their legislators to share their perspectives. The legislative process requires understanding and collaboration. Legislators appreciate personal connections with constituents. Learn more about IAHE Action >>> https://www.iaheaction.net/ 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 M.A. Rooney Foundation>>> https://www.marooneyfoundation.org/ Explore the Lessons in Language curriculum>>> https://lessonsinlanguage.com/ For more details on the Indiana Literacy Cadre>>> https://sites.google.com/uindy.edu/indiana-literacy-cadre To view session schedules and other information related to the Indiana General Assembly>>> https://iga.in.gov/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, Amy Bragdon interviews her mother, Rhonda Cunningham, who began homeschooling her family in 1984. They discuss the early days of homeschooling, the challenges faced, and the evolution of resources available to homeschooling families. Rhonda shares her experiences, insights, and advice for both new and seasoned homeschoolers, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement and adaptability in the homeschooling journey. KEYWORDS homeschooling, home education, IAHE, homeschool pioneer, homeschool trailblazer, parenting, 1980s education TAKEAWAYS Community resources were essential for homeschooling success. Parental involvement is crucial for children's success. Homeschooling is not a guaranteed success; effort is required. Flexibility in the curriculum is important for diverse age groups. Trusting the process and adapting is key to homeschooling. 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/

In this episode of Homeschool Indiana, Tara Bentley and Courtney Nalin reflect on their experiences in homeschooling, the development of Courtney’s homeschool resource center, and the importance of community and connection. They discuss the challenges of balancing work and homeschooling, navigating personal losses, and the lessons learned along the way. KEYWORDS homeschooling, homeschool community, IAHE, work-life balance, homeschool challenges, home education TAKEAWAYS Community and connection are vital in homeschooling. Balancing work and homeschooling is challenging but rewarding. Every season of homeschooling brings new challenges and blessings. Don't compare your homeschooling journey to others. You are the best teacher for your child. Encouragement can come from unexpected places. 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 Courtney’s homeschool resource center>>> https://joshuatreehomeschoolhub.org/ Visit the Facebook page for the homeschool resource center>>> https://www.facebook.com/joshuatreehomeschoolhub

In this episode of the Homeschool Indiana podcast, Amy Sager talks with Bradley Pierce, a co-founding attorney of Heritage Defense, about key laws every Indiana parent should understand. Their discussion covers topics such as vaccine mandates for homeschoolers, mandatory child abuse reporting, minors’ healthcare consent rights, corporal discipline laws, car seat and child safety regulations, and parental rights during CPS visits. This important conversation highlights why knowing these laws is essential for protecting parental rights and keeping children safe. KEYWORDS homeschooling, parental rights, Indiana parenting laws, child protection, CPS, vaccine mandates, healthcare consent, corporal punishment, Indiana car seat laws, child supervision, Heritage Defense, IAHE TAKEAWAYS Know which laws apply to homeschoolers. Understand parental rights and responsibilities Be informed about minors’ healthcare consent Follow child safety and supervision guidelines Know your rights in CPS situations Understanding the law protects your family 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 Heritage Defense>>> https://heritagedefense.org/ Learn more in this Heritage Defense article>>> https://heritagedefense.org/8-Laws-Every-Parent-Should-Know