Podcast
Vintage Homeschool Moms
Hosted by Felice Gerwitz · EN
Preserving the best of the past with an eye to bless future generations the show offers no excuses, perfection or compromise. Felice hosts this weekly show on Monday at Noon Eastern, often with guests.
43episodes
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Best Year Ever – Total Solar Eclipse
2w agoTap to summarizeThe Total Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 Updated for the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse. This episode first aired around an earlier eclipse, and the wonder is just as real today. On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will pass over Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, while families across the northern United States (from Alaska to North Carolina) will see a partial eclipse—so plan for safe viewing rather than totality here at home. For a full family viewing guide with eye-safety tips and a simple pinhole-projector activity, see our Solar Eclipse 2026 homeschool guide. Total Solar Eclipse ~ And more. Episode 512 Every day is the best day, or it can be if you have the mindset that you are looking for miracles in your life. In 2026, a total solar eclipse is just one of the exciting things happening in your world. How can we keep the momentum going? In this podcast, Felice shares the idea of finding the gems in your life and celebrating them with your family. Visit Mediaangels.com for immediate downloads such as Character Planners, Checklist Planners, and, coming soon, the entire set of Organize-IT planners. So, is this going to be your best year ever? If you said, “Yes!” that is great, but if you said, “No.” then Why not? Take a moment to consider your answer. I think we can make this the best year. Even if you’re listening to this in January in March, or maybe even in December, you can begin each day anew. The first thing is our mindset. And, it is catching. If we are enthusiastic, our kids will be enthusiastic. (Tell 1/2 sheet of paper and a pencil – pop quiz). So, our attitude is important, but so is our ability to find those gems in our lives that are often overlooked. It doesn’t take money, but it does take research. This year, there are some awe-inspiring events. However, we will focus on one that is sure to catch the headlines, and that is the Solar Eclipse. What is a Solar Eclipse: A total solar eclipse is something that happens very rarely, and when it does happen, it is something many people will be excited about seeing, some traveling to the locations where they can get the best view. A total solar eclipse is when the moon passes over the sun in such a way and angle that it blocks the sunlight from our view. First, let me warn as as you already know (and please let your children know) that it is always dangerous to look at the sun. Never look at the sun! The solar eclipse will not happen again for another twenty years, so it’s really exciting to be aware of this one. The solar eclipse or the total solar eclipse is going to happen on August 12, 2026, and the next one won’t happen until August 23, 2044. The shielding of the sun by the moon moving, what looks like over the top, will show the outer part of the sun, which is called the corona. What is notable about this total solar eclipse? The moon will cover the sun. It will turn the sky into night in certain areas of the earth; there is a path from Mexico to northeast Canada. The shadow (or area of darkness) across America is about 124 miles wide. Again, this happens on August 12, 2026 You must wear protective eyewear to view the eclipse, and please buy it from a reputable source. Your eyes are important. If you wear eye protection as the eclipse is happening, it won’t work when there is a total eclipse. What does this mean? Well, it will be dark, so if you have protective eyewear to keep out the harmful rays of the sun, it will be too dark to see the eclipse when it is totally over the sun. The moon over the sun will darken the sky, so it looks like it is night – well, early evening. You will be able to see the Sun’s corona (the outer part of the sun.) This is the only time (total solar eclipse) that you can see the corona. If you live in the direct path of the eclipse, it will last for around four minutes. *this is two times as long as the last total eclipse in 2017 over North America. What is the difference between an annual solar eclipse and a total solar eclipse? That is what I wanted to know, and I learned that during an annular eclipse, it is only safe to view it with protective glasses because you can still see a portion of the sun, and looking at the sun, as we’ve already established, is dangerous. So, you can see a ring of the sun around the moon. However, a total eclipse means that the moon completely covers the sun (totally) and hides the sun from view so just the corona or outer edges show. You will want to: Check out a map to see where the track of the total eclipse will pass. (Here is the link to download a copy of the map from the NASA website). See if you are anywhere near the path; if so plan to watch it live. Get a pair of safety glasses (from a reputable source) to watch the eclipse. If you are nowhere near the eclipse, watch it streaming live on the NASA website – we did this some time ago with a solar eclipse here. It is fun to study things that are happening in our world. Resources for Solar Eclipse: Eclipses in 2026 Interactive Map for the eclipse of 2026 here. This is a wonderful opportunity to study the stars and add it to your homeschool curriculum. And, as Psalm 19: summarizes so beautifully – “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Amen! enjoy. Bring more wonder to your homeschool New to the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network? Grab our free Christian Homeschool Starter Kit for encouragement and practical help, then tune in to Vintage Homeschool Moms for faith-filled inspiration each week. Get the Free Starter Kit Listen to Vintage Homeschool Moms The post Best Year Ever – Total Solar Eclipse appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Transcribe →Science Labs That Actually Work at Home
3w agoTap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → 📚 Part of our guide: Homeschool Science Science Labs That Actually Work at Home Sponsored by CTCMath.com Teach science with confidence using hands-on experiments your kids will remember. Replay Notice: This episode originally aired several years ago and is being shared again because the teaching is still relevant. Please note that any promotional offers, coupon codes, pricing, websites, or product availability mentioned during the episode may no longer be valid in 2026. Can You Really Teach Science at Home? If the thought of teaching homeschool science feels intimidating, you’re not alone. Many homeschool parents worry most about high school science, especially labs and experiments. The good news? You don’t need to be a scientist to raise curious learners. In this replay, Felice Gurwitz shares practical strategies for making science engaging, hands-on, and enjoyable—from kindergarten through high school. Drawing from decades of homeschooling five children, she explains why science isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about encouraging observation, curiosity, and critical thinking. Whether you’re teaching elementary science or preparing your teen for biology or chemistry, these tried-and-true ideas will help you build confidence. Listen to the Episode In This Episode You’ll discover: Why science is really about exploration—not memorization The five keys to successful homeschool science labs How to use the scientific method without making it overwhelming Simple ways to build a home science lab on a budget Why failed experiments can become the best learning experiences The importance of giving children ownership in scientific discovery Tips for choosing science curriculum that fits your family’s learning style How hands-on labs develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills Why field trips, museums, and real-life experiences make science memorable Thoughts on dissections, virtual labs, and practical science learning Key Takeaways Science Begins with Curiosity Science isn’t simply a collection of facts. It’s learning to ask questions, observe carefully, research possibilities, test ideas, and draw conclusions. Children learn science best when they’re encouraged to investigate rather than simply memorize. Five Keys to Successful Homeschool Science Felice recommends focusing on five essentials: Develop enthusiasm for science. Learn scientific vocabulary together. Practice using the scientific method. Create memorable hands-on experiences. Allow children to contribute their own ideas and questions. You Don’t Need an Expensive Lab Many useful science tools can be collected over time, including: Magnifying glass Measuring cups and spoons Funnels Thermometer Kitchen scale Eyedroppers Microscope Small containers Timer Organizing these supplies into labeled bins makes experiments much easier to complete. Experiments Don’t Have to Be Perfect One of the biggest misconceptions about science is that every experiment should “work.” Sometimes the greatest learning happens when results are unexpected. Those moments teach children how real scientists think, troubleshoot, and revise ideas. Encourage Big Ideas One of Felice’s favorite stories is about her daughter attempting to stabilize hydrogen peroxide for a science fair project. Instead of dismissing the idea, she allowed her daughter to investigate—and the experience became a lesson in creativity, persistence, and scientific thinking. Sometimes our children’s curiosity takes them farther than we imagine. Textbooks Aren’t the Only Option Every homeschool family learns differently. Some families thrive with textbooks. Others enjoy unit studies, experiments, projects, and discussion. The goal isn’t choosing the “perfect” curriculum—it’s helping your children understand how science works and encouraging them to think critically. Hands-On Learning Builds Confidence Field trips, museums, nature studies, experiments, dissections, and cooperative science labs all give students opportunities to connect concepts with real-world experiences. Those experiences often become the lessons children ...
Transcribe →7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages
4w agoTap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → VINTAGE HOMESCHOOL MOMS • EPISODE 435 Math the Easy Way: 7 Tips for Teaching Math to Kids of All Ages with guest Pat Murray of CTC Math | Hosted by Felice Gurwitz About This Episode Does your child love math or dread it? In this episode, Felice Gurwitz sits down with Pat Murray — a math teacher and coach of more than 36 years and the founder of CTC Math — to share seven practical, doable tips for teaching math to children of every age. From short, clear explanations and the power of rote learning to smart lesson sequencing and avoiding frustration, Pat unpacks what actually works after decades in the classroom and at home. He also serves up a couple of memory “magic tricks” (including a clever way to keep circle formulas straight) that make math genuinely fun. Whether you have a struggling learner or a strong one who just needs reinforcement, these are ideas you can put to work right away. About the Guest — Pat Murray Pat Murray has been a math teacher and coach for more than 36 years. The programs and courses he and his company have developed have helped students and families in the tens and hundreds of thousands across more than 72 countries. Pat is the founder of CTC Math, which offers self-paced online video tutorials that take a multi-sensory approach to learning math. Pat and his wife, Mari, live in Sydney, Australia, and have 10 children and seven grandchildren (soon to be eight). 7 Tips for Teaching Math (Key Takeaways) Short, concise explanations. Clarity is everything — math should be easy to understand. Keep explanations to about 2–3 minutes for younger children and 5–7 minutes as they get older. Not all teaching methods are equal; find the one that makes the light switch on. Immediate practice and feedback. Have kids practice right after they learn something, and make sure they know quickly whether the first few answers are right or wrong — so they don’t spend 20 minutes reinforcing a mistake. Rote learning is your friend. Memorizing times tables, basic facts, and formulas frees up brainpower for algebra and problem solving later. Don’t buy the idea that it stifles creativity. Use stories to lock in formulas (see the “pie and rabbits” trick below). Mind the sequence of lessons. Textbooks often introduce the hardest material first. Scan a chapter, push the difficult topics to the back, and start with the easy wins so kids build confidence — success is what keeps them going. Go easy on discovery / inquiry-based learning. Left to figure math out on their own, kids lose interest fast (think of a Rubik’s Cube with no instructions). Teach by example and lots of worked examples first; save open-ended exploration for after they’ve mastered the basics. Use puzzles and problem solving. Sudoku, quizzles, and similar puzzles build interest and make math fun. Start simple for early success, add a reward system, and favor pen-and-paper — the connection between hand and brain matters for real thinking. Avoid frustration. Possibly the most important tip. Kids aren’t struggling on purpose. Getting angry can make them hesitant to come to you later — not just about math, but about anything. Stay calm and keep the door open. Don’t Miss The “pie and rabbits” memory trick for keeping circle formulas straight — two rabbits (2r) running around a pie for circumference (C = 2πr), and one rabbit squashed flat into a square for area (A = πr²). Pat’s algebra “magic trick” that always lands on 3: pick a number 1–10, double it, add 10, add your original number, subtract 1, divide by 3, then subtract your original number. Pat plans to post a short video explaining the algebra behind it. Resources & Links CTC Math — online video math tutorials, self-paced, one price covers everything a family needs. Start a free trial: ctcmath.com CTC Math offers a full 12-month money-back guarantee — 17 years running — so there’s no risk in trying it. Favorably reviewed in Cathy Duffy’s 102 Top Picks and the old Schoolhouse Crew Review. Host website: VintageHomeschoolMoms.com (find this episode and show notes — Episode 435) Felice Gurwitz / Media Angels: MediaAngels.com Vintage Homeschool Moms is a production of the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network. Visit our sponsor: Are you looking for a new Math Curriculum? CTCMath specializes in providing <a href="http://fast.wistia.net/embed/iframe/fvecqxa3ie?popover=true&fbclid=IwAR0hBCKuVxeFSWNDByPyxw9jTl7N15HrFJ-sp3Vj5C3ccypEMwJhrBNqwnQ" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Ffast.wistia.net%252Fembed%252Fiframe%252Ffvecqxa3ie%253Fpopover%253Dtrue%2526fbclid%253DIwAR0hBCKuVxeFSWNDByPyxw9jTl7N15HrFJ-sp3Vj5C3ccypEMwJhrBNqwnQ%26h%3DAT3D1xktQauqIT8qAmJPLnfto0x3I6CgESOn3KswGAg0WMBK2BgPmlSccb6IUlXa8NEB6DYXF-21Z7nsGFrUyefZuYpCh0x-nZI7xfeB3_PTbYq1Ir9t41lBpiWM5qw6uncm...
Transcribe →Freedom and Economics with the Tuttle Twins
Jul 6Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → How can you teach children the ideals of freedom and economics in a way they will remember? Join your host, Felice Gerwitz, and Daniel Harmon, the Creator and Showrunner of the Tuttle Twins TV Show. Freedom and Economics ~ Episode 513 How often do you get a chance to talk to the creator of a television show? Well, today, I sat down with Daniel Harmon, a homeschooled dad of seven. Daniel is the creator and executive producer of the Tuttle Twins TV show. He is the co-founder of Harmon Brothers and Angel Studios. I’m sure many of you recognize that name. It is the studio that produces a favorite among many, The Chosen. Daniel is the father of seven and says the show for them and what he would have wanted as a kid. He claims his kids are his in-house focus group! As a fan of the Tuttle Twins novels, I purchased several sets for family and friends; it was my pleasure to bring you this interview. Sponsored by CTCMath.com Freedom and Economics Points discussed: Many believe economics is reserved for someone else to teach. Or it is up to the kids to learn it in higher level learning like college. Yet with the Tuttle Twins, both the book series and the TV show it is something that kids can actually understand. It is put in the context of the principles of freedom of your rights, and it’s not as complicated as it’s made out to be. They overcomplicate it in a way that does a lot of destruction to our economy, but it is not nearly as complicated as some like to make it out to be. Rights: You start from a basis. We all have rights, rights to life, to liberty, to property. The things that are enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and in the Constitution. Those rights are defined by economist Frederick Bastia, who wrote the book The Law. These rights are inherent, God-given rights. Kids instinctively know this is true. If they have something that they’ve worked for, you can’t go and take that away from them. That’s unfair, right? That’s their property. Freedom of Life: If someone tries to hurt or kill a person, that is not fair. That’s my right to my life. You can’t take away someone’s life; this does not allow a person to have liberty, the ability to make their own decisions and to pursue their own dreams and passions and things like that. And people can’t also get in the way of that. Then, when you understand that, add economics. Economics: A high-level principle is putting policies into place that are beneficial. The policy needs to benefit more than one group. Not only in the short term but needs to benefit all groups in the long term. And kids get that as well. The policy needs to be something that’s not just favoring a given industry or corporation or something similar; it needs to be something that really creates a fair playing field for everyone. Freedom, Economics, and Business: More points discussed: The TV series is based on the books that have sold over 5 million copies It teaches about timeless principles of freedom and economics that are not being taught in schools or in culture It’s about a Grandma who takes her twin grandkids on adventures with her time-traveling wheelchair The show is free, has over 20 episodes released, and is available for FREE on the Angel Studios app (the same distributor that brought you The Chosen). Season 2 is available. We have an episode on socialism that features Kevin Sorbo Our mission is to reach 100 million kids with the idea of freedom The show is a co-viewing experience. Kids AND parents enjoy it and learn and discuss the concepts together. It has many jokes that go right over the heads of 8-year-olds but are intended to keep parents engaged. The website is TuttleTwins.tv The post Freedom and Economics with the Tuttle Twins appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Transcribe →Stress Free Summer Learning
Jun 29Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → In today’s episode, “Stress Free Summer Learning,” I’ll share easy, flexible tips to keep your kids learning without the stress. From unit studies to outdoor adventures, get ready for a fun, low-key summer of growth! Stress-Free Summer Learning: Homeschool Tips for Fun and Growth ~ Episode 562 Summer is a time for relaxation and family memories, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to keep your children’s learning on track. In this episode, I’ll share streamlined homeschool schedules that maintain educational momentum without overwhelming you or your kids. If you’ve listened to this podcast before, welcome back, and you know I only share practical tips that don’t break the bank! If you are new, welcome friend (or soon-to-be friend), and I hope you enjoy some ideas for short lesson plans, including unit studies, outdoor learning, and simple yet impactful activities. Whether you’re a year-round homeschooler or just sprinkling in some summer learning when the kids are acting bored, this podcast is for you. Thanks to our sponsor! CTCMath.com Why Stress-Free Summer Learning Matters Summer can be a balancing act with vacations and family events. However, research shows that students can lose 20-25% of their reading and math gains over the summer, known as the “summer slide.” A flexible, streamlined schedule keeps kids’ brains engaged without turning summer into a grind. The key? Flexibility. Short, meaningful activities that fit your family’s rhythm make learning feel like a refreshing summer breeze. Here’s how to make it happen. Check out this related podcast for more summer inspiration. Tip 1: Embrace Unit Studies for Focused, Fun Learning What Are Unit Studies? Unit studies are a fantastic way to streamline summer learning by diving deep into one topic, for example, oceans, dinosaurs, or space, while covering multiple subjects. For example, an ocean unit study might include: Science: Exploring marine life, weather, water cycles, buoyancy, or even scuba diving. History: Learning about the history of scuba diving Literature: Reading non-fiction books on the subject. Art: Drawing marine life or creating a coral reef diorama. It can even be hands-on and practical. Playing in a pool or tub with items that sink or float, talking about air bubbles and compression, and asking if anyone is SCUBA certified for a hands-on lesson, or visiting a dive shop. Why Unit Studies Work for Summer Unit studies are flexible, interest-driven, and low-prep, making them ideal for summer. They’re perfect for multi-age homeschooling, allowing everyone to learn at their level, and they align well with Christian principles for faith-based learning. Tailoring for Middle and High Schoolers Middle School: Explore biblical archaeology or stewardship with resources like Answers in Genesis or The Bible Project. High School: Focus on apologetics with Focus on the Family’s The Truth Project or Summit Ministries. How to Get Started Pick a Topic: Ask your kids what excites them. A library trip or family poll can spark ideas. Gather Resources: Use free printables, library books, or podcasts from the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network. Plan Lightly: Aim for a few short activities each week. Incorporate Hands-On Fun: Visit an aquarium or build a model submarine from recyclables. Unit studies make learning feel like an adventure, keeping both you and your kids stress-free! Tip 2: Take Learning Outdoors The Power of Outdoor Learning Outdoor activities boost creativity, reduce stress, and improve focus, according to studies. Nature is a free, open classroom ready for exploration. Outdoor Learning Ideas Nature Journaling: Sketch plants or bugs and add a Bible verse like Psalm 19:1 (“The heavens declare the glory of God”). Younger kids can record observations on a phone. Math in Motion: Draw number lines with sidewalk chalk or measure angles in a scavenger hunt. Science Experiments: Build a solar oven or test objects in a kiddie pool. History on the Go: Visit a local historical site or discuss community history during a neighborhood walk. Tailoring for Middle and High Schoolers Middle School: Create scavenger hunts with Scripture or use iNaturalist or Other Websites Here to identify plants and animals. High School: Map biodiversity or photograph architecture for a church history unit with Creation Ministries International. Tips for Success Keep It Simple: A blanket and books under a tree work wonders. Be Flexible: Schedule activities for cooler parts of the day. Involve Everyone: Include siblings or neighbors for group fun. Explore our Kids’ Planner for more outdoor activity ideas. Tip 3: Use Short, Focused Activities to Maintain Momentum Bite-Sized Learning Short activities fit busy summer days and keep kids engaged without feeling overwhelmed. They also leave room for spiritual growth. Examples of Quick Activities Morning Read-Alouds or Devotionals: Read from the Bible, or your favorite devotional. Or you can read one of the library books on the topic you are studying. Flashcard Fun: Use multiplication flashcards or SAT vocabulary during breakfast. Podcast Challenges: Try our 7-Day Just for Kids Podcast Challenge for character-building activities. Daily Writing Prompts: Spark creativity with prompts like “What’s in a treasure chest?” How to Make It Work Set a Loose Routine: Plan one activity daily or a few weekly. Use Timers: Keep sessions short and focused. Celebrate Small Wins: Praise efforts with high-fives or stickers (Galatians 6:9). These quick bursts keep skills sharp while preserving summer’s joy. Tip 4: Leverage Free Resources to Keep It Low-Cost Where to Find Free Summer Learning Tools Homeschooling doesn’t have to be expensive. Try these free resources: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network: Podcasts like Vintage Homeschool Moms and free printables. Podcast Challenge for Kids here. Khan Academy: Free math and science lessons. Answers in Genesis: Creation science and devotionals. The Bible Proje...
Transcribe →Raising Constitution-Loving Kids with KrisAnne Hall
Jun 2200:58:29Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → Liberty First: Raising Constitution-Loving Kids with KrisAnne Hall (Replay) Show: Vintage Homeschool Moms Host: Felice Gerwitz Guest: KrisAnne Hall, JD — Constitutional attorney, author, and founder of Liberty First University Network: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Episode type: Encore / Replay (originally aired 2014 — refreshed for 2026) Constitutional attorney KrisAnne Hall joins Felice Gerwitz to show homeschool moms how to raise liberty-minded kids, why she walked away from a paycheck to teach the Constitution, and what every parent should know about Common Core and school choice. A timeless replay, updated for 2026. Episode summary In this fan-favorite conversation, host Felice Gerwitz sits down with constitutional attorney and homeschool mom KrisAnne Hall. KrisAnne shares the powerful story of how she chose to keep teaching the Constitution even when it cost her a $60,000-a-year government job, and how God provided for her family every step of the way. Together they talk about why liberty is a Judeo-Christian inheritance worth passing on, why most Americans can’t name the five freedoms in the First Amendment, and how parents — not the government — hold the real responsibility for raising the next generation. KrisAnne also answers listener questions about Common Core, charter and virtual schools, vouchers, and the best way for parents to get up to speed on the Constitution so they can teach it to their kids. It’s encouraging, challenging, and packed with the kind of “I never thought about it that way” moments KrisAnne is known for. Host’s Note — Updated for 2026 This episode first aired in 2014, when “Common Core” was the education debate at every co-op meeting and kitchen table. The heart of KrisAnne’s message — that liberty is a gift we steward for our children — hasn’t aged a day. But a few of the headlines have changed, so here’s a quick update so you’re listening with 2026 eyes: Common Core has largely faded — but the framework lingers. Several states formally repealed and renamed the standards, and roughly two dozen have revised or rebranded them. Here in Florida, Governor DeSantis signed an executive order to eliminate Common Core and replaced it with the B.E.S.T. Standards (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking), phased in beginning the 2021–22 school year, which notably weave civics and the U.S. Constitution through every grade. That said, education analysts point out that many “new” state standards still carry Common Core’s DNA — so KrisAnne’s underlying point about who controls curriculum (and who funds it) is as relevant as ever. School choice exploded. When this aired, KrisAnne urged caution about vouchers and warned that “where government pays, they will dictate.” Since 2021, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) have become the dominant model, and as of 2026 around 18–19 states offer universal eligibility. Florida now has universal school choice; Louisiana launched its LA GATOR program in 2025; and Texas’s $1 billion ESA program — the largest initial funding cap in history — launches for the 2026–27 school year. As you listen, it’s worth weighing KrisAnne’s “strings attached” caution against the new landscape and deciding where you land for your own family. Where to find KrisAnne now. She is the founder and president of Liberty First University (online courses from about $20/month at libertyfirstsociety.com), still writes and teaches, and hosts The KrisAnne Hall Show. Her books referenced in this episode — Not a Living, Breathing Document, Bedtime Stories for Budding Patriots, and Essential Stories for Junior Patriots — are still available, along with newer titles like Sovereign Duty and Liberty First: The Path to Restoring America. What you’ll learn Why KrisAnne walked away from a $60,000 government job rather than stop teaching the Constitution — and how her family saw God provide Why liberty is a Judeo-Christian inheritance, not a government grant The five freedoms in the First Amendment (and why “when one falls, they all fall”) Why she believes the government didn’t intrude into education — parents invited it The difference between government, charter, and virtual schools — and her caution on vouchers How busy, traveling, on-a-budget parents can still make homeschooling work The best resources for parents to learn the Constitution well enough to teach it Episode segments (Approximate — adjust the timestamps to match your final audio file.) [00:00] Welcome and introduction — how Felice met KrisAnne at a Fort Myers history fair [03:00] “History always repeats because human nature never changes” <li class="font-claude-response...
Transcribe →Best Homeschool Tips
Jun 15Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → Best Homeschool Tips – Survey Response – Episode 501 Homeschooling can be a wonderful experience, and in this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we discuss the best homeschool tips. We surveyed our listeners. Join me to find out what they advised. Thanks to our sponsor CTC Math. CTC is a highly rated math curriculum for homeschooled students for grades K-12. The family math package makes it ideal for large families at one low price. Visit the website for more information. Last week I shared a milestone episode, 500, and the topic was Homeschool Do Overs; this episode is a continuation with a twist; I selected some of the best advice for homeschool moms who answered our survey. While the question centered on the idea of a homeschool do-over, I found that their advice better fit the category of “The Best Homeschool Tips.” Check out Homeschool Do-OVER here. During my years of homeschooling, I’ve received the most encouragement from like-minded families. I still consider my past homeschool friends to be among my closest, the reason. They experienced what I experienced; they put aside their goals and aspirations to focus on their relationship with God, their spouse, their children, their home, and their homeschool. These ladies were faithful, and most continued the homeschool journey throughout high school. Everyone did what was best for their family; my friends are wonderful news. Keep your eyes on what you and your family think is important, and ignore the rest. I learned that extended family might be well-meaning – yet, we have to decide what is best, which is a good place to start. If you have not taken the time to decide on your family goals, begin there. Best Homeschool Tips As a synopsis of the pages of recommendations and suggestions, I’ve placed them in categories; Faith, Family, Homeschool. I have edited the comments to make them easier to read on-air and kept the names anonymous! If you hear a comment you made on the survey and want to share your name, visit the podcast page at Vintage Homeschool Moms, look for episode 501, Best Homeschool Tips, and leave your comment there! See if any of these ideas resonate with you! Faith Tips: God’s to-do list and my to-do list are often very different. This mom shared that while she did make plans and lists, she found her day would go so much better when she placed her plans into God’s hand and asked him to help her accomplish what He wanted her to do. This same person shared that she prayed about her homeschool year and would lay out the curriculum and ideas, even extra curricula, before the Lord. I love this idea because being in God’s will is the goal for us as Christians. One mom said she wished she had focused more on the Bible/Apologetics and given her kids a solid foundation to launch them into a world that doesn’t value what we value. [This friend is one of the main reasons people homeschooled in the past, and it seems to have fallen off. It should be one of your main goals as homeschooling.] I would have prayed more. My passion for praying for God’s will has grown as my walk with the Lord has grown. Praying correlates to my daily peace of mind and joy, which spilled over into my homeschool classroom and my girls who were a part of it. Praying together as a family nightly and sharing praise reports. What had God done in your life each day? Homeschool Tips: You may have regrets, but choosing to homeschool your children will never be one of them. Another mom wished she had unschooled and not tried to mimic public school in the early years. Another shared she never intended to homeschool and was, and I quote, “literally thrust into it with no other options at the time. I had no time to research…it was just gone. We only planned to homeschool one year…but this fall is the start of our 12th year, with 13 more years to go.” She said the younger kids definitely will benefit from my early misses. (I love this!) Another stated she wished she had been homeschooled from the start! [In fact, many of you said the same thing!] She began homeschooling when her daughter was in middle school, and it has been the biggest blessing for the family. She feels she missed out on time with her daughter. This is what many people say. Take more field trips and fun days in junior high and high school. Another mom shared she wish she had made school more fun. Have the children each try a class at the local college for dual enrollment, realizing it wasn’t all or nothing. (I did this with two high school students, and it worked extremely well. I was still part of their schooling; they took classes at home and experienced college-level classes where I could help them with good study habits.) This same mom shared that they would not stop doing math over the summer as I did for too many years, as her kids would have benefited from the extra practice. Helped her high schoolers prepare for and take CLEP exams. CLEP exams give a student credit for the class instead of having to take it in college. If your student tests well, this is a good option. One mother shared that her third child, for many reasons, went into a private school in the seventh grade. The world pulled him away from us, and we have major regrets. Another mom said she allowed her daughter to mainstream back into public school in 10th grade. She lasted two years before begging to homeschool again. It caused a lot of unnecessary trauma for the entire family. She said, knowing what I know now about what goes on in those institutions, she wouldn’t let any of her children set foot in public school again. [Friends, don’t think private or Christian schools are the answer; we can be hands-off. We must often grab our kid’s hearts early on; if not, we can start today! I published a book some years back, Secret Code Time: Creating an Unbreakable Bond Between Parent and Child. It is available on my website in limited qualities in print and eBook. I also have podcasts on the topic of kids and relationships. This is key! I wish I had focused on child-led learning sooner. I wish I had been better at making life skills part of our learning when my kids were younger. (We have a Life Skills podcast with Lisa Nehring that you should check out on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network. Another said she wished they had more fun and more often. One mom said she would be confident about homeschooling, which comes from experience. Another mom said to avoid the online “all in one” curriculum. She admitted that using books with mom, lead teaching takes more time and work, yet she felt more in control and recognized the gaps her children had sooner. She said with online learning, her kids rushed through lessons, and it seems retained little. She also said it was difficult to change in middle and high school. I would encourage this mom that it is not too late to change, and while it might include allowing them to stay in this curriculum until she figures out what she wants to teach and how, it will be something she does not regret. Testing for learning difficulties early on so that intervention and different curricula would be used. Some parents spoke about specific curriculums. I don’t want to be negative about certain curriculums, but I want to say that Charlotte Mason’s inspiration is great, especially in her younger years. Avoid bandwagon curriculums or groups. We use unit studies early on in my children’s homeschool, and I loved t...
Transcribe →Cleaning with Kids
Jun 8Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → 📚 Part of our guide: Homeschooling with Toddlers & Little Ones Cleaning With Kids From the Vintage Homeschool Moms show with Felice Gerwitz Sponsored by CTCMath.com I’ll be honest: I never liked cleaning. For years I got no pleasure out of it at all. I still remember my mother-in-law saying, “Doesn’t everything just look so great after you clean?” and thinking, yes — but by the time I got there I was too worn out to enjoy it. So when I tell you I’ve come a long way on cleaning, and on cleaning with my kids, I mean it. Here’s how it happened, and what I’ve learned along the way. New Hear? Give these podcasts a listen Top Vintage Homeschool Moms Podcasts Homeschool Lifestyle Last Minute DIY Tips Money Saving Field Trips All About Teaching Raising Spiritually Strong Kids Six Homeschooling Insider Tips Best Staycations for Kids Avoid Curriculum Pitfalls Top 10 Parenting Secrets 45 Family Date Night Ideas A little house that taught me a lot Our first home was about 1,200 square feet. My mother sweetly called it a dollhouse — her positive spin on tiny bedrooms. It turned out to be the perfect place to learn how to clean and clean well. There simply wasn’t room for junk to pile up. I’m a big fan of shelving, so I had my husband put shelves up in the living room and down the hall, and that helped tremendously. The real lesson took me years to absorb: you need a place for everything. Back then, when company was coming, we’d just dump everything into the spare bedroom and shut the door. That is not a system. When we moved into our current home, we jumped from 1,200 to 2,800 square feet. I looked at all that cabinet space under the bathroom sinks and thought, I will never fill this up. Of course I did. More room actually made the house junkier, because there was always somewhere to set things down. Around that time I started a publishing business, which gave me the perfect excuse to finally hire a cleaning lady. It freed me to work — but I still kept the family picking up, and my kids still had chores. When everyone pitches in Years later we added on again so my father could move in with us. By then the house had grown to seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, and two stories — far too much to pay someone else to clean. So my husband sat down and divided up the work. I’d been married to this man for many years and couldn’t recall him ever volunteering to clean, so I was curious what he had in mind. “I’ll do all the floors,” he said — and if you knew how much tile we have, you’d know that’s no small offer. Going room by room, we discovered something useful: every room can be divided into age-appropriate jobs. There are things the little ones can do, things the older kids handle, and things that belong to Mom and Dad. Over time everyone settled into the tasks they actually enjoy, and it’s remarkable how that works out. One of my daughters loves to pop in her earplugs and run the floors — that’s her thing. The boys are happiest on the lawn mower, weed-eating, and taking care of the pool. One liked setting the table, another emptying the dishwasher. Nobody likes dishes — except my husband, who actually enjoys them. And we all love to cook. The point is, when people get to lean into what they like, the work stops feeling like a battle. Do’s and don’ts for little ones The big “don’t” is harsh chemicals. We’re serious about non-toxic in our house, so I don’t buy many cleaners — most we make ourselves or buy from gentler companies. I do keep some bleach, but I never hand bleach or ammonia to a child; those are far too harsh. For years we made our own mild homemade window cleaner, and the kids loved it, because what kids really love is a spray bottle. Honestly, you can fill one with plain water and they’ll be just as thrilled. Good jobs for little ones: dusting with a cloth, sweeping with a smaller adjustable handle, and using one of those lightweight battery-powered swivel sweepers. Ours started out costing around $99 when they first appeared and now go for about $15. They don’t last forever, but they’re perfect for small hands, and during the years we had them our floors were spotless because everyone wanted a turn. Heavier vacuums are usually too much for a little one, but a vacuum wand can work. Why ask kids to clean at all — especially someone like me, who avoided it for years? Because it builds genuine character. Even when we could afford help, I never let the cleaning lady do my children’s rooms top to bottom. The kids still straightened their rooms, stripped their own sheets, put away their clothes, and helped fold laundry. I didn’t want them to feel entitled. And I always kept the little ones nearby while they worked — in the same room or close enough that I could keep an eye on them. Room by room Bathrooms. My braver daughter lets her kids clean the toilet under close supervision; I never have. She still laughs about the day one of her children proudly dragged a dripping toilet brush through the house to show her — doubling the work, since now the floors needed sanitizing too. My rule was simple: Mom does the toilet, tub, tile, and showers. The kids handle floors, faucets, sink bowls, and mirrors. My favorite trick for little ones is a magic eraser on the baseboards and doors — the spots I always neglected because I hated bending down. Our big white baseboards show every fingerprint, and those erasers clean them beautifully. Long-handled scrub brushes on the sinks are another winner; kids love to scrub. Bedrooms. The children help strip their sheets, and with supervision they love loading the washer — though I always say, “only Mommy does the soap.” We dust weekly and de-junk as we go. If a stray Lego or little toy turns up, I ask them to put it back where it belongs before it gets broken. I keep dresser tops clear, and we tackle just one or two drawers a week. Do that consistently and the whole dresser stays organized — and because the kids helped, they keep it neater. Every few months we pull the beds from the wall to vacuum behind them, and once a year, usually in summer, we do the heavy lifting: everything comes off the shelves, gets dusted well, and goes back. It’s a process, not an overnight project. Right now we’re in the middle of converting our schoolroom for high school, swapping out two wobbly desks we’d tightened and repaired for fifteen years — and even mid-project, the tidie...
Transcribe →Just For Kids Time Capsule
Jun 100:15:46Tap to summarize🧮 This episode is proudly sponsored by CTCMath — an online math program designed to help homeschool families build confidence and mastery, one lesson at a time. Try CTCMath → Hey kids! Have you ever wondered about time capsules? What about a just for kids time capsule? Time Capsules are treasure boxes filled with pieces of today that you can open years from now. Imagine digging up a box from the past and seeing what life was like for someone just like you! In this fun Just For Kids episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we’ll explore what a time capsule is and get your ideas flowing for one you can make at home. Create a Homeschool Time Capsule ~ Episode 579 Just For Kids– Fun Faith-Filled Memory Activity for Kids What Is a Homeschool Time Capsule? A time capsule is a special container you fill with items, notes, drawings, or small treasures that capture a moment in your life. You seal it up and place it somewhere you won’t be tempted to look at it! Give it to your parents or place it somewhere that is out of reach. It would be fun to bury it in the backyard or somewhere that is clearly marked (with permission!). When you open it later, those things become memories that tell a story about who you were, what you loved, and what was happening in your world. Think about stories you’ve read or shows you’ve watched where explorers find old coins, letters, or toys from long ago. Those discoveries spark excitement and help us learn about the people who came before us. Your own time capsule can do the same thing for your future self or even your children one day! Sponsored by CTCMath.com Why Make a Time Capsule with Your Family? Do you ever think, “I’m sure to remember this!” and then forget? That happens to all of us. We have a great day at an event like a county fair or a birthday party. Think about one thing you ate or something you purchased or won? Maybe you are part of a band or play sports. Did you get a ribbon or special honor? One time, my children played baseball (and my daughter played softball). When they received the “King’s Award,” it showed godly character and good sportsmanship. They knew I thought that was the best award, even better than getting “Most Valuable Player.” (Of course, a mom would think that is the best!) What is important to you? What hobbies do you have? What is a favorite book or book series that you read? A homeschool time capsule helps preserve these special moments and reminds us of God’s blessings in our daily lives. Time Capsule Ideas You can put almost anything in your time capsule—as long as it’s safe and won’t spoil. Here are some original ideas to spark your creativity: A photo of you and one of your family. Your favorite day so far. What is something wonderful that has happened to you that you want to remember? A letter to your future self. What would you tell yourself in five or ten years? Something that is happening in our world today. A handwritten “Top 10 Things I’m Thankful to God For” list from right now. A small drawing or a list of your favorite Bible verses. Why is it meaningful? Your current favorite bookmark (or one you decorated yourself) with the title of your favorite book (or series). Your favorites. Whether this is a sport, a collection, a television series, or something else. What is your “favorite” right now if you had to pick one? A favorite worship song or song you like. (You can list more than one.) A sketch or photo of the view from your bedroom window or homeschool desk. A “day in the life” note describing what a normal homeschool morning looks like for you this year. A special rock, shell, or something you’ve collected from nature, on a family adventure, with the date and place written on it. A sample page from your prayer journal. The wrapper or label from your favorite snack (or homemade treat) that your family enjoys together. What would you put in? My recommendation is to use something waterproof or place it in a waterproof container if you are storing it outside. Something like a plastic container with a tight lid, or even a giant mason jar. Decorate the outside to make it look special. Write the date on it and when you plan to open it—maybe in five years, ten years, or when you turn eighteen! Scripture to Remember “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” (Matthew 6:19-20). I hope your time capsule reminds you of what is important to you and how our lives are always changing. What is important today isn’t always important in the future, and a time capsule is a snapshot of time that demonstrates this to us in a real way. Listen to the full episode for even more ideas, questions to ask each other, and ways to make this a meaningful family project. More Vintage Homeschool Moms Episodes for You to Enjoy Just For Kids: Fun with Scripture Memory Homeschooling with Little Ones: Making Memories Creative Homeschool Projects That Last Family Faith Activities for All Ages Simple Homeschool Keepsakes and Traditions Recommended Resources from Media Angels Store Organize IT Planners – Wonderful for tracking special memories and projects to include in your time capsule. Character Counts Planners – Faith-filled tools to help kids reflect on godly character moments worth preserving. The post Just For Kids Time Capsule appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Transcribe →Time Boosters for the Busy Homeschool Moms
May 25Tap to summarizeTime Boosters for the Busy Homeschool Mom: Simple Productivity Tips That Actually Work Are you constantly overwhelmed by your homeschool schedule, household responsibilities, and endless to-do lists? In this encouraging episode of Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network’s Vintage Homeschool Moms, host Felice Gerwitz shares practical and faith-filled strategies to help busy homeschool moms reclaim their time, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters. Sponsored by CTCMath, this episode offers realistic productivity advice for homeschool families who feel like there are never enough hours in the day. Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone Do you ever feel like: Your homeschool schedule is impossible to keep up with? Your to-do list never gets shorter? You’re constantly busy but not accomplishing what matters most? You end each day exhausted and discouraged? Felice reminds homeschool moms that the problem often isn’t laziness or failure—it’s unrealistic expectations, poor prioritization, and trying to do too much at once. In this episode, she shares simple mindset shifts and practical systems that helped her balance homeschooling, parenting, business ownership, podcasting, and family life more peacefully and effectively. Key Takeaways from This Episode 1. Take Time to Recharge Spiritually One of the biggest productivity boosters isn’t another planner—it’s spending intentional time with God. Felice encourages moms to: Begin the day with prayer and Scripture Create quiet moments throughout the day Invite children into a peaceful, faith-filled atmosphere Focus on spiritual renewal instead of constant hustle She reminds listeners that an empty vessel cannot continue pouring into others. 2. Identify What’s Stealing Your Time Sometimes the biggest time-wasters are habits we don’t even notice: Constant phone interruptions Checking emails at the wrong times Starting unnecessary tasks before leaving the house Overcommitting daily schedules Procrastination disguised as productivity Learning to recognize these patterns can dramatically improve your homeschool day. 3. Create a Simple Planning System Felice shares an easy A-B-C-D-E planning method for organizing: Daily priorities Weekly responsibilities Monthly goals Her system helps moms: Delegate responsibilities Identify tasks only they can do Prioritize effectively Reduce mental overload Stop feeling guilty about unfinished lists 4. Focus on What Truly Matters At the heart of this episode is an important reminder: If there was only one thing you could accomplish today, what would matter most? For Felice, it’s making sure her children and family know they are loved. This episode challenges homeschool moms to: Reevaluate priorities Let go of perfectionism Focus on relationships over performance Build a peaceful homeschool atmosphere Mentioned in This Episode Goodbye Survival Mode by Crystal Paine Flourish at Home by Mary Jo Tate Media Angels resources and online classes American History and Government courses from Media Angels Encouragement for Homeschool Moms Homeschooling isn’t about accomplishing every task perfectly. It’s about building relationships, nurturing faith, and creating a home centered on what matters most. If you’ve been feeling burned out, discouraged, or behind, this episode will encourage you to slow down, simplify, and take back control of your time with grace and purpose. Listen to More Encouraging Homeschool Podcasts Discover more homescho...
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