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God’s Unique Plan for YOUR family!

TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

God’s Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

Are you willing to invest your life in the next generation? If you have kids or grandkids I know the answer is most likely, “Yes!” It’s easy to say that we want to invest in our families, but often we don’t know where to start. Desperate, we look for the right to-do list from a wonderful speaker, writer, or coach, but more often than no their list doesn’t work for our family. In fact, it simply makes us frustrated and overwhelmed!

Do you want to know why we have such a hard time following someone else’s list? It’s because God has a unique design for each family. What He has called your family to is different than what He’s called our family to.

Currently, I’m doing an online parenting class with my friend, and New York Times Bestselling Author Ken Blanchard. Ken is an expert on management, and he’s helped me as a mom to focus on leading my family well. Being a family leader is based on investment and discipleship. And just like leaders of companies guide their workers, we must do the same with our families. If we do not invest in and disciple our children then the world around them will be quick to jump in and take over our job. If we don’t direct our kids, they will choose others to follow, and where will they end up? In chaos.

Proverbs 29:18 talks about this very thing. It says, “Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained.”

TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

We need to give our families direction. It’s necessary for them to have a vision for the future so they will know where they’re headed.

Still, it’s hard to know what to do, especially what to focus on. The best way to gain vision is to figure out these three elements:

  1. Our purpose as a family
  2. Our values as a family
  3. Our picture of the future for our family.

What is your purpose? What are your values? What is the picture for your future?

I recommend that you sit down and write out your thoughts about these areas. For the Goyers, this is what resonates with us:

  • to serve God
  • to serve others
  • to grow hearts for ministry
  • to use our unique, God-given talents
  • to be authentic in our relationships with others and with God
  • to know we have a purpose in the world
  • to live our purpose so that God will be glorified

Putting it all together, here is our family mission statement:

We strive to be a family that serves God by serving others. Together we will grow hearts for ministry, using our unique, God-given talents. We will be authentic in our relationships with others and with God. We trust that we have a purpose in the world, and we will live our purpose so that God will be glorified through our lives and work.

TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

Having a mission statement guides us to know what to say no to and what to say yes to. We focus on serving together and spending time developing authentic relationships. Because of this, we say no to a lot of outside activities. Knowing our family mission helps to take away the guide of saying no to too many sports, groups, or events. We know that by saying no to these things, we are saying yes to God’s bigger picture for us.

To live our family’s purpose we’ve chosen to homeschool. Today my guest, Leslie Nunnery, and I will be talking about our call to teach our children at home and how doing so has helped us to disciple and invest in our kids. If you homeschool, are interested in homeschooling, or simply want to know more about it, listen in. If you’re been thinking about homeschooling, but have been fearful to take the plunge, I think you’ll be encouraged. Also, know that 99% of all people say, “I don’t have it in me to homeschool.” Yes, we all feel that way! Thankfully, God has shown us that where we are weak, He is strong.

Homeschooling is a step of obedience.
Homeschooling is an investment in the next generation.
Homeschooling is discipleship, training our children to follow God.
Homeschooling isn’t just about what God wants to do with our kids, it’s also about what He wants to do with us.

If you’re ready to be inspired as a leader and a parent, listen in!

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TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

Scripture to ponder

Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained. Proverbs 29:18

TGS - Leslie Nunnery - Episode 4 - God's Unique Plan for YOUR Family!

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Mentioned in This Episode

Meet me at the Teach Them Diligently Conferences

Books to Read

Lead Your Family Like Jesus

Who is Leslie Nunnery

Leslie Nunnery is the co-founder of Teach Them Diligently Convention along with her husband David and the mother of four children who range in age from 14-21.  God has given her a strong burden to minister to Christian families to help support, encourage and equip them to disciple their children, protect their marriages, and serve God in the ways He has planned for them. She is an advocate of home education with a strong focus on discipleship which is evidenced in her writings and the events her family produces. Leslie is the author of a discipleship-focused parenting book called Teach Them Diligently, Raising Children of Promise and Heart School, a 15-lesson class in which Leslie helps families learn to disciple their children through home education. She is also heavily involved in mission endeavors through Worldwide Tentmakers, for which her husband serves as president and Teach Them Diligently supports.

Connect with Leslie

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Heart School

Connect with Tricia

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | BookBub

See Tricia’s Favorites here!

Special thanks to the October sponsors

 

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Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space can change your life–and that of your family. Years ago, I sat down with my husband John and, with his help, cleared away the calendar clutter that was robbing me of peace and purpose. Today, we live very busy–yet structured–purpose-filled lives that give our family the time and space they need to feed their souls and feed into others as well. Let me share what helped us craft purpose through creating white space.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Whenever one of our children is involved in an activity, we show up as a family to support them. This has included attending football games to watch our daughter in the marching band or going to statewide basketball games for our son. We want our children to know they are uniquely special and that their whole family is cheering them on. These priorities lead to habits that fostered a more focused and settled spirit as a family.

Even though we have a large family, we established patterns to our days and weeks. The time we spend together makes us closer. Our priorities guide us when it comes to knowing what to say yes to and what to say no to. They help us determine what’s best for all of us, not just for one person in the family. Our choices have directed us to a quieter life, even as we’ve continued to add to our family through adoption.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Not long after John and I were married, we sat down and went through the calendar together. I was in tears. I felt scattered. There never seemed to be enough time to do the things that were important to me. As we went through the calendar clearing exercises, I came across a verse that confirmed we were on the right track. Ecclesiastes 4:6 says, “Better is a handful of quietness than two handfuls of toil and striving after the wind” (ESV ).

purpose

 

Clearing my calendar and establishing family priorities didn’t just bring calm to my day, it also brought peace to my soul, making room for God to work. As Colossians 3:15 says, “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.”

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Whenever I feel tempted to default and add on “just one more thing” I remind myself that adding more is just chasing the wind. As my soul is settled and I stop trying to prove myself, I start asking God to show me his heart, to direct my path, and to guide my steps. I tell him I want his purpose for my life — our lives, not just mine. And I’ve discovered God has been waiting for us to join his work all along.

Once I created white space and had a framework to guide family decisions, my mind became less cluttered, my day is less frantic, and my heart more open to God’s will.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space can change your life–and that of your family.

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If you enjoyed this post, you might like my book Walk It Out:

Walk It Out

Women often pack their lives with family, friends, and faithful service, yet still, end up feeling empty and unfulfilled. In Walk It Out, Tricia Goyer demonstrates to women that walking out the mandates of Scripture allows God to spark passion and mission within them.

Whether believers realize it or not, God intended for them to do what the Bible says: adopt the orphan, take the gospel into all the world, and care for the needy. These are mandates that point believers down the path of true living and eternal life.

Sometimes those steps are easy, but many times they require a move outside of what feels safe or secure. When women stop focusing on their own dreams and purposes and instead focus on God’s dreams and purposes, everything changes.

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Writer’s Desk: Mark Wainwright

Writer’s Desk: Mark Wainwright

Do you have young readers in your house? I’m so excited to feature Mark Wainwright on this week’s writer’s desk. Mark Wainwright loves adventure. He’s ridden elephants in Thailand, hang glided in the Swiss Alps, and even been stranded in Morocco. But Mark also loves finding adventure through the pages of an exciting book! And now, Mark is using his travel experiences as material for writing suspenseful stories for young adults.

For 16 years, Mark led the editorial departments at several Christian publishers. Then, in 2017, Mark transitioned to teaching professional writing courses at Pensacola Christian College. He uses this publishing experience to help guide the next generation of writers and editors.

Be sure to stick around until the end of the post for more about Mark’s latest release, Trapped in a Hot Air Balloon, plus a chance to win a copy!

Q&A with Mark Wainwright

Do you have a writing routine? When/Where do you write?

A key element in being a productive writer is writing consistency. Indeed, to be a writer, you’ve got to write! You’ve got to put in the time regardless of whether or not you feel like it. I love how William Faulkner addressed this subject. He said, “I only write when I am inspired. Fortunately, I am inspired at 9 o’clock every morning.”

Because I teach college writing courses, my schedule changes each semester. I’ve thus learned to carve out writing time whenever I have at least a 90-minute block of time. That might come in the morning, sometimes after lunch, but often after my kids are snuggled into bed. By then, I’m tired . . . but I still make writing a priority. The key (at least for me) is to write each and every day. I don’t always accomplish that, but I strive hard to make it happen.

When are you most productive?

I wrote Trapped in a Hot Air Balloon almost exclusively at night, between the hours of 9:00-11:30 p.m. Then my college teaching schedule changed. Because of that, I’m working on my next manuscript during my available morning hours. I try not to allow the time of day to dictate my creativity.

What do you drink or snack on while writing?

Hot water. Yup, I know it’s slightly odd. I’ve been drinking hot water for decades. It’s just what I do.

How do you overcome writer’s block?

When teaching Creative Writing, I ask my college students to raise their hand if they’ve ever experienced writer’s block. Almost every hand shoots into the air. Then I say, “Do you want to know how I deal with writer’s block?” My students stare at me. They wait expectantly for a magical solution or 3-step process that will suddenly fill them with inspirational writing ideas.

But at this point, I reach into my briefcase and pull out a small wooden block. On the piece of wood, written in bold letters, are the words: Writer’s Block. I say, “See this? This is my Writer’s Block. Whenever I have trouble thinking of ideas, do you know what I do?” I then walk to the classroom entrance, open the door, and chuck the block of wood as far down the hallway as I can.

Students laugh when they hear the block of wood tumbling down the hallway floor. I say, “There. You see! I just got rid of my Writer’s Block. Now I don’t have any more excuses—it’s time for me to get back to work. And when you experience writer’s block, you should do the same. Chuck it out the door and out of your life. No excuses. Just sit down and write. Write even if you don’t feel like it because the more you write, the more ideas will come to mind.”

Like Louis L’Amour said, “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.”

What is your outlining process? Are you a pantser/plotter or something in between?

When a story idea comes to mind, I write it down as quickly as possible. That might be a few pages or even a few chapters. At that point, I evaluate whether there’s enough depth to the story idea to continue. If there is, I begin developing a rough outline of the main story. It’s important for me to know enough about the story to know how it ends. Of course, the ending may change (and probably will change) by the time I’m done, but developing an outline helps direct my focus as I continue writing.

Also, knowing how the story ends enables me to more effectively determine what scenes and details to include throughout the narrative. While developing the outline, I also begin exploring characters and determining what characters would be most effective for the theme and tone I want to convey. After I spend even more time refining my outline, I’m then able to work on the story in sections. Sometimes I’ll even jump around with what part of the story I’m writing. But by having an outline, I know how the various part will eventually fit together.

Best advice for someone who is just starting out.

Write! These days, I believe there’s too much emphasis on developing a writer’s platform. It’s important, but for those who are beginning their writing journey, here’s my #1 piece of advice, “Write. Write consistently. Write passionately. Write for fun.” Then after that, here’s my #2 piece of advice. “Edit. Edit ruthlessly. Edit meticulously. Edit courageously.”

Describe an unusual hobby you have or an adventure you’ve experienced.

In 2003, I was managing the editorial department at Christian Books Melanesia, the largest Christian publisher in Papua New Guinea. When a group of Christian surfers visited the northern coast and invited me to join them on a trip to an offshore island several hours away, I agreed to go.

We crammed into a small dingy powered by a rusty outboard motor. Halfway out there, the motor began sputtering, coughing, and choking. Then it died. We were left adrift in the Bismarck Sea, floating aimlessly as the wind picked up and the waves began to swell. When dusk finally settled over us, we saw fins slicing through the water. They were only dolphins—but in everyone’s mind, we wondered if sharks were hiding in the murky depths. The hours passed slowly. Hope began to grow dim. It’s a long story, but eventually, we were rescued the next day.

When I think about that life-and-death situation, I’m reminded that life is short. We never know how many days we have remaining to serve the Lord. Thus, if the Lord has gifted you with writing, be courageous. He will strengthen you for the work at hand.

Enter to win a  copy of Trapped in a Hot Air Balloon*

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*Due to shipping costs open to US shipping addresses only.

More about Trapped in a Hot Air Balloon:

When a hot air balloon ride goes terribly wrong, siblings Jenny and Cole find themselves soaring thousands of feet into the cold Colorado sky.

In the basket of the enormous balloon, they must overcome their differences and safely land the runaway hot air balloon. This unforgettable flight will captivate your imagination and inspire your heart.

Join Jenny and Cole on their trip of a lifetime as they learn to overcome fear, exercise faith, and extend forgiveness.

Purchase a copy here.

Connect with Mark Wainwright

Website | Facebook | GoodReads

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Mom, Your Life Matters. You Matter.

“Mom, your life matters, you matter,” I told them. The words were barely out of my mouth when I heard the sniffles and saw women quickly wiping away the tears that managed to escape. My words hit a tender part of their hearts—and maybe yours, too. Today I share what God says about Mothering and how you can feel His delight in you.

Mom, Your Life Matters.

Recently, I spoke at a women’s conference, encouraging moms. While I wanted to encourage moms to be all that God created them to be, there was another part of my message that resonated even more. “Mom, your life matters, you matter,” I told them. The words were barely out of my mouth when I heard the sniffles and saw women quickly wiping away the tears that managed to escape. My words hit a tender part of their hearts—and maybe yours, too.

You DO Matter

As moms we’re often so busy comparing ourselves to others we forget that we’re important—that we matter just as we are. Our worth as women goes beyond what we do. We are worthy beyond what we can accomplish. We forget how much we are loved by the Creator of the universe. We forget that deep down to the core Jesus loves us, just as we are and right at this moment.

You matter because you’re designed by God.

God created you and He loves you. He smiles when He sees you. It doesn’t matter to Him how much you’ve accomplished today. His love is not dependent on that what you do or don’t do.

For most of my life, I had a hard time understanding that my worth wasn’t based on works. During my growing up years, I thought I had to be “the good kid” to earn God’s love. It was only as I really messed up (time and time again), that I realize God’s love doesn’t depend on me, but rather on Him. His love is an outpouring of His greatness and not on my goodness, and I’m so glad for that.

Take a moment and picture yourself sitting next to Jesus. Imagine Him looking at you with love in His gaze. He’s not concerned about your to-do list. He’s not worried if you weigh more than you wish or have more debt than you should. He loves you simply for you in this moment. “You matter,” He whispers, hoping it will penetrate to you heart.

You matter because God has good plans for you.

“God gives his children tasks to complete. Even in Eden he assigned the first man and woman the job of tending a garden,” writes Judith Couchman in her book, Designing a Woman’s Life. “But understanding our significance before we attempt accomplishment anchors the soul in an order uncommon to this world. First, we embrace our innate worth, then we pursue our unique purpose. After this, we tackle our work.”

Feel as if you’re not living up to your potential? Jesus can help you become more of the person he designed you to be. With Jesus’s wisdom and guidance, you can become the best version of yourself. You don’t matter because of what you do. Jesus’ love isn’t dependent on your works, but He does long to work alongside you.

Take a moment and imagine the good work God has planned for you. Instead of looking ahead toward the obstacles, glance over to the side. Jesus is there, ready to take every step with you and help you along the way.

You matter today.

Out of all the people on this earth God chose you to parent your children in this time in history. Your children will have a lot of friends, mentors, and teachers but you are their only mom. It’s easy to focus on your flaws, but your child sees something different. Your child loves you because you are you. Believe that you matter today.

Take a moment and imagine all you have to do for the rest of the day. How would all that you do change if you understood that God has given you today with your children … and with Him. Picture Jesus in the rest of your day and into tomorrow. Do you see the message in his gaze? “Today is what matters. You matter today.”

 When I speak with women these messages are often the ones they need to hear. Maybe you needed these words, too. If these truths haven’t penetrated your heart go back and read them again. Sometimes it takes a while for the truth to sink in, but once it does the truth will change everything. It matters.

 

 

This post originally appeared on The Better Mom blog here: Mom, You Matter

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How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Ready to learn how to homeschool successfully? On Tuesday, April 6th, I’ll share how to save time, money, and have confidence and peace in your homeschool. Let me teach you how to choose a curriculum you’ll love, homeschool multiple ages at once, and inspire children to love learning and not just “get work done.” Hope to see you there!

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Ready to spend 90 minutes preparing or transforming your homeschool? I’ve homeschooled three children nearly to adulthood, and then, I started all over again! After John and I adopted seven more children I became a full-time homeschool teacher again. I’m currently homeschooling four children ages 10-16 so I know the challenges of teaching multiple ages, finding the right curriculum, and teaching children with learning disabilities.

‍If you can join me on April 6th, I’ll be sharing my best tips, including:

 

  • Organizing a schedule
  • Saving time
  • Saving money
  • Homeschooling multiple ages
  • Helping kids to love learning
  • Keeping a transcript
  • And more!

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Have you struggled to get your classroom organized? Do you feel out of your element when teaching your kids? Homeschooling is more than textbooks and lessons–it’s a lifestyle of learning. And it can be mastered by anyone willing to learn. You know your kids better than anyone else and you’re the best person for the job. Let me guide you into making your family life-long learners.

If you’re ready to nail down all the specifics of a successful homeschool then this is the place for you. In this interactive, LIVE event, I’ll spend the first 60 minutes teaching, and then I’ll open it up to your questions.

Prepare to be encouraged, educated, uplifted, and inspired!

Register here–Limited to 100 participants:

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Tue, Apr 6

5pm PT / 8pm ET

90 min

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Read Across America 50 Books for Families

In honor of Read Across America I’m sharing my favorite 50 Books for Families. These books have been enjoyed by our family for decades and I hope your family enjoys them as well. Happy reading friends!

 

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

One of my favorite times of the day is when I get the kids settled in a night and it’s time to read. Bedtime reading has been a tradition that we’ve done for the last 20+ years. We make sure all electronics are turned off, the kids get ready for bed, and we sit down as a family to read. It’s amazing how many wonderful books we get to share as a family!

In honor of Read Across America, here’s a list of 50 picture and chapter books to go through as a family!

Picture Books

1) I’ll Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

2) Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman

3) Night Night, Sleepytown by Amy Parker

4) The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes and Louis Slobodkin

5) The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden and Garth Williams

6) Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger

7) Miss Suzy by Miriam Young and Arnold Lobel

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8) The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer

9) If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff and Felicia Bond

10) The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

11) The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski and P.J. Lynch

12) The Monster at the end of this Book by Jon Stone and Michael Smollin

13) The Big Picture Story Bible by David R. Helm and Gail Schoonmaker

14) Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

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15) Silly Sally by Audrey Wood

16) Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

17) You Are Special by Max Lucado and Sergio Martinez

18) Barnyard Dance by Sandra Boynton

19) Bombus the Bumblebee by Elsie Larson, David & Helen Haidle

20) The Giant Jam Sandwich by John Vernon Lord

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

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21) Tikki Tikki Tembo by Ariene Mosel and Blair Lent

22) Could Be Worse by James Stevenson

23) When We Were Very Young by A.A. Milne

24) The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White and Fred Marcellino

25) Was it a Good Trade? by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers and Irene Haas

26) Louise the Big Cheese and the Back-To-School Smarty-Pants by Elise Primevera and Diane Goode

27) Jeremy: The Tale of an Honest Bunny by Jan Karon and Teri Weidner

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28) A Porcupine Named Fluffy by Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger

29) Let Papa Sleep by Emily Reed

 

Chapter Books

30) Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder

31) The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom and Elizabeth Sherrill

32) Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham

33) Johnny Tremain by Esther Hoskins Forbes

34) Black Beauty by Anna Sewell51sf-qyial

 

35) The BFG by Roald Dahl

36) Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

37) The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

38) Prayers that Changed the World by Tricia Goyer

39) The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare

40) The Golden Goblet by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

41) Savvy by Ingrid Law

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42) Heidi by Johanna Spyri

43) Watership Down by Richard Adams

44) Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

45) The Giver by Lois Lowry

46) Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright and Joe & Beth Krush

47) Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

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48) Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

49) The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

50) The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

What are your favorite books to read aloud as a family? Share in the comment section below!

Reading For Homeschool Success

Reading is a part of educational success and Homeschool Success can be yours with my Homeschool Success Course!

Before, homeschooling was about choosing a better educational choice for your children. But now, there’s so much more at stake, including the HEALTH of your family.

Public and private schools are doing their very best balancing teaching kids at school during a world-wide health crisis, while also figuring out virtual learning. It’s a big challenge. During this time in history, everyone is just trying to figure out what’s best. I’m here to help you figure out homeschooling quickly and start meeting the educational needs of your kids immediately!

The truth is–YOU ARE YOUR KIDS BEST OPTION! 

Do you want to give your kids a private education but without the endless screen time, complications, and lack of individuality that comes with a public school e-learning alternative?

You’re invited to join a growing movement of parents who want to give their children something better and something deeper.

–A deep love for learning.

–A deeper, more comprehensive education.

–Depper family relationships.

Together we can build the homeschool life you dream of! Get the Homeschool Success Course here : Homeschool Success

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How to have TRUE Homeschool Success

Are you ready to learn how to have True Homeschool Success? Let me show you what has worked for our family for over two and a half decades. I want to share what’s given us the power so you too can lead your family through home education.

 

How to have TRUE Homeschool Success

Home + school. It’s a decision we made years ago. But, to be honest, when we made that decision little did we know how it would affect generations to come of our little family.

We didn’t know *for sure* that homeschooling would give us the chance to teach our kids to trust God in all things.

We didn’t know *for sure* that reading missionary stories and talking about service to others would sink in.

And, we didn’t know *for sure* that our kids would develop strong relationships with God that would make them bold for Christ—willing to lead and follow Him where ever He called…


But we truly hoped and prayed that it would.

Now, we have three grown adults who not only survived homeschooling, but THRIVED! Our son Cory leads his lovely family to follow the Lord, our daughter Leslie is a missionary in the Czech Republic, and our son Nathan is a godly man pursuing Christ as He finds his career path.

Now, I get the amazing gift of homeschooling our seven adopted children as well! AND I get the amazing gift of seeing my grandchildren grow to be fully devoted followers of Christ too.

I have to tell you, this makes my heart burst.

How to have TRUE Homeschool Success

Would this have happened if we had chosen public school for our kids? Possibly. But the truth is, I KNOW that my time and efforts schooling our kids at home gave them a foundation of faith that has stood the test of time and now feeds into the faith of future generations of our family. THAT is a gift that keeps on giving.

 

When I see my beautiful grandchildren walking in the Lord I am overcome with gratitude that God called us to homeschool education. And I’m SO glad we took Him at His word when He said:

 

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

And:

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4

 

Also:

“Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen, and so that they do not slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and grandchildren.” Deuteronomy 4:9

 

As well as:

“Teach them to your children, speaking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 11:19

 

These Scriptures say to me that we as parents are called to be teachers. Not just some of the time, but in all things. We are to lead the children God blessed us with. And what an honor and blessing it is to do that.

How to have TRUE Homeschool Success

 

If you want to know more about how YOU can give the gift of a homeschool education to your family join me here: www.homeschoolsuccesscourse.com 

Let me share all the practical tips and tricks I’ve learned to:

—Homeschool multiple levels in four hours a day.

—Create a positive learning environment where your children will thrive.

—Invite your kids to join you on the journey of education.

 

 

—Understand the basics of homeschool laws and what your kids need to graduate and go to college.

—Discover your gifts as a homeschool teacher.

—Finding extra help for special needs kids.

…and so much more!

 

Here is my welcome module to give you a glimpse of this course!

 

YOU can give the gift of a homeschool education to your family by joining me here: www.homeschoolsuccesscourse.com 

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Homeschooling Success Can Be Yours Today

Believe me when I tell you–homeschooling success can be yours. Let me tell you how I made it work for our family and how you can too!

Homeschooling Success Can Be Yours

18 (short!) years. That’s’ all I had.  And with some of my adopted kids joining our family late in life, I knew I had even less than that with them. I wanted to pack my children’s lives with meaning. I wanted to give them the best life I could. Because someday, I wanted to stand before God and be able to say I had done all I could to raise my children to love and follow Him.

But something was holding me back. As I lay awake at night, it was like a weight sitting on my chest…the possibility of homeschooling.

I realize now, that weight was fear. I was scared that homeschooling would require me to kiss my dreams goodbye. That if I homeschooled, my kids would emerge from adulthood as weird, socially awkward creatures that people would roll their eyes at and say, ” Oh, they must have been homeschooled.” Most of all, I was afraid homeschooling would turn my life upside down.

In many ways, it did.

My dining room table was suddenly taken over by books and papers and my thoughts became consumed with worries about curriculum. homeschool co-ops, and conferences. I worried, was I even qualified to do this? My school-aged kids were home all the time, I had no time for myself.

But as the days passed into months, and months to years, I started to notice a few things:

My kids were playing outside when other kids were stuck in desks all day.

My kids truly loved learning and viewed the world as their classroom. They loved the Lord and were excited to serve Him.

These kids raised at home weren’t socially awkward–in fact, they loved talking to adults and could strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere.

I felt like I knew my kids–really KNEW them. I was confident I could give them each the individual attention they needed to be successful. Homeschooling had made it possible for me to reach them despite their different levels, abilities, and challenges.

Not only that, but I found I did have time for myself–time to write and publish books, serve moms in my community, and host a podcast.

So, I guess you could say that homeschooling did turn our lives upside down. But, 10 kids and 25 years later, I realized the truth:

Homeschooling didn’t turn our lives upside down. It turned our upside-down lives right side up.

Now I want to offer the same gift to YOUR family. The rich gifts of home education.

 

Homeschooling Success Can Be Yours

They say bravery isn’t the absence of fear, it’s moving towards the thing you fear anyway. Maybe you’ve got fears, concerns, questions. I’m here to tell you that’s OK. In fact, it’s actually very normal.

“For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?

Luke 14:28

You are right to consider the cost. And that’s exactly why I designed the Homeschool Success Course with you in mind. I know the cost and I know that the gift of a homeschool education to your children and your family is worth it. And I’m here to help you.

I’ve put my heart and soul into developing a course for you that outlines the most important aspects of homeschooling:

  • Creating a positive home environment where your children will thrive and learn.
  • ​Inviting your kids to join you on their education journey.
  • ​Understanding the basics of homeschooling laws and what it really takes for your kids to graduate and go on to college.
  • ​Discovering your gifts as a homeschooling teacher.
  • ​Finding extra help for special-needs kids.
  • ​… and more!

Homeschooling Success Can Be Yours

You can bypass the stress, confusion, and exhaustion I experienced in the early years. You can skip straight to the meaningful, fun adventure that comes with schooling your kids at home! Because I care, I’ve compiled my best tips and tricks, making it easy for you to give your family the rich gift of homeschooling. 

Don’t Wait!

Public and private schools are unsure how they’ll of how they’ll proceed this fall in the wake of the pandemic. But you don’t have to be. You can proceed confidently and wisely. You can start your homeschooling journey with an entire toolbox of knowledge and inspiration. 

Can you imagine what life will be like when you create a positive homeschooling environment where your children thrive and learn? And where you feel peace as a homeschooling mom?

Let me show you how! Learn more about The Homeschool Success Course now!

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Simple Organization Tips for Working From Home

Over the years I’ve put a lot of thought, sacrifice, and even money into figuring how to make working from home run smoothly. Just yesterday I was telling a friend, “How amazing is it that I get to do what I love [write] while also getting to spend a large portion of my day with my children?” Here are some details of how I practically manage with Simple Organization Tips for Working From Home.

Tricia Goyer shares Organizational Tips for Working From Home

Simple Organization Tips for Working From Home

I love working from home. I love being here for my kids.

I’m here when my kids wake up in the morning. I’m the first person they see when they come downstairs. I take them for walks. We homeschool and play board games. I fold their jeans and T-shirts from the dryer and set dinner before them every night. I tuck them in bed.

This doesn’t come without challenges. though. My kids at home now are ages 9, 10, 12, 15, 17, and 17. That’s a lot! A lot of noise and a lot of mess. It’s sometimes hard to concentrate. One of my organization tips for working from home has been, I’ve resorted to hiring outside help. Specifically,

  • I hire a housekeeper to come once a week.

  • I hire a “Manny” (My older son) to come many times a week, during the day to keep an eye on everyone while I work.

  • I use assistants to be my extra hands and feet. They upload my blogs, manage my website, book guests for my radio show, etc.

None of this has happened overnight. I’ve sought out help in small ways, and I’ve built up over time. I’ve taken each step once my income has been able to sustain it. And the truth is knowing that I have others counting on me paying them has helped me be diligent about my work, too. I can’t play around on Facebook or computer games all day. I need money coming in to support those who make it possible for me to do what I do.

Simple Organization Tips for Working From Home

Another organization tip for working from home is, I depend on my handy-dandy calendars!

Digitally I use Google Calendar and Calendly to keep track of where I need to be when. I don’t schedule anything unless I consult with my calendars first. I set up blocks when I know help will be there. or when my wonderful husband will be available for the kids, and then I schedule my work into those slots.

Things don’t always go as planned, but at least I have a plan that propels me in the right direction!

Simple Organization Tips for Working From Home

But, it’s not just having a calendar that makes the difference.  My 3rd organizational tip for working from home is to plan to fill your calendar wisely.

Here are a few important things about my calendar:

  • Not every slot is full. There is time to homeschool, to cook, to clean, to play outside. There is also white space to nap, read, or paint.
  • I schedule in time with friends- mostly virtually these days.
  • I focus on a few important things. My life revolves around my kids, my writing, friends/church, and mentoring teen moms. That’s enough. I say no to a lot of things so I can say yes to the things that God has called me to. Those things are most important to me.

I also like to use a physical planner, as well, to help keep me on track of where I should be. I am currently using my friend Ruth Chou Simon’s Planner. It’s beautiful and functional:

Gracelaced is the planner that Tricia Goyer uses

There is one more key part to managing my schedule…

Whenever I start feeling anxious or worried, I go back to this verse.

Tricia Goyer shares this very in her post Organizational Tips for Working From Home

 

Ecclesiastes 4:6, “Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.”

Yes, there are many additional ways I can give and serve, but one handful is enough, thank you very much.

How about you? Do you have a calendar that helps you keep track of your life and goals? Do you have any organization tips for working from home to add? I’d love to hear about it! 

You might also enjoy Balancing Working From Home with Schooling From Home. Download the free printable for more work from home tips.

Balancing Work From Home with Schooling from Home

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Fun School! Help Your Kids Learn At Home This Summer with Free Resources

Did you know you can Help Your Kids Learn At Home This Summer with free resources to make schooling fun? It’s not summer school–it’s Fun School!

 

Help Your Kids Learn At Home This Summer

 

There are few things kids look forward to more than summer break. Yet, things are different this year. Most kids have already been home for two months. They’ve been balancing school at home, but for most kids, it’s been more “hard and different” than “fun.” As a mom, I want my children to have a healthy love of learning. So I’m excited about tools that can give them joy in the process.

This summer, keep kids both entertained and educating with FUN SCHOOL. All of these activities are as fun for the parents as they are the kids … and they are all FREE!

Free Audiobook

 

 

My kids love audiobooks. We listen to them on car rides, and during art and craft time. We listen to them while playing Legos and baking cookies.

Some of our favorite audiobooks are by Jim Hodges. They are great for the whole family—lots of fun and exciting adventures and completely clean. (Even Dad enjoys them!)

You can sign up to receive a free audiobook HERE.

And if you enjoy this audio as much as I think you will consider signing up for the Download-a-Month Club. A digital download normally costs $18. But, with the Download-a-Month Club, YOU decide what title goes on sale as a download every month, and you only pay $6.99 per story! Your family will love having a constant stream of exciting audio stories month after month.

 

Free Unit Study

 

 

My kids have fallen in love with unit studies. We love taking one subject and learning about it from different angles. Recently, we’ve been enjoying Five In a Row studies. For these studies, you read one classic storybook five days in a row, and then each day explore a different element around the story.

Download a free Unit Study HERE.

This free download is for The Story of Ping. In it, kids can learn about relationships, animal kingdoms, geography, culture, literature, literary devices, art mediums, and more! After reading the book each day you pick what areas to explore.

More Free Resources to Help Your Kids Learn At Home This Summer

Join me over at The Better Mom to read the rest of this post: https://www.thebettermom.com/blog/2020/5/11/fun-school-help-your-kids-learn-at-home-this-summer-with-free-resources

 

 

Free Stay Home Journal

Stay Home Journals help kids focus on good things.

During this time, kids need a place to think, write, or draw what is going on in their hearts and minds. Writing helps kids process emotions. Writing moves thoughts from a kids’ emotional brain to his thinking brain, allowing him to process all that’s going on.

I believe in this so much, I’ve created Stay Home Journals for kids.

Download your free Stay Home Journal HERE.

Free Stay Home Journal: https://bit.ly/freejournalforkids

 

Free Resources (Not just for kids!) 

My team has put together a list of over 200 amazing resources and courses for you. This is a load of great education for all ages. From the tiny tots to the parents, there are some wonderful sites on this PDF. Yes, you can go to the Smithsonian, tour Yellowstone, or travel to Paris without leaving home!

I’m especially looking forward to every Wednesday, where there will be free, online, worship-painting classes with Blossoming Hearts Studio on Facebook. And don’t forget about the free Lamplighter audiobook too!

The list also has sites for every homeschooling subject you can imagine. Pass this on and share it with your friends: Free Resources for The Whole Family.pdf

 

 

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschool can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live.

 

Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

 

homeschooling basics

 

Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my newsletter, check out my podcast, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, or Instagram.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

 

 

 

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Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

Here’s some hope and help for Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home!

 

 

Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

I used to laugh when my mother-in-law, Darlyne, told me how my husband was a strong-willed child. That was until our daughter turned out to be exactly like her dad.

A scrawny high schooler, John was told he’d never make it in the Marines. So he joined. He not only made it, but he graduated top of his class. In the military, he stayed true to God, even when alcohol and women were readily available to him. All through life, he has lived as a man of honor and excels in his work. His strong will has taken him far.

This, of course, wasn’t comforting as I dealt with my own strong-willed child. Leslie was a sweet baby doll her first year of life, but things changed once she turned 2. She’d have tantrums if she didn’t get her way. She would hide behind me and refuse to talk when people approached her. If I gave her a blue cup, she wanted the red one. If I offered a cookie, she’d want a cracker, and vice versa. Each day was a battle—my will against hers. There were days I loved my child but didn’t like her that much.

Leslie is witty, intelligent, and extremely strong-willed. This meant when she was growing up we would often find ourselves at odds when it came to homeschooling. Getting her to focus on schoolwork was a daily fight. I had to apply the same principals to home school that I had used to raise as a busy, obstinate toddler.

Maybe you have one (or more) kids like this. Here’s what I’ve found helpful when teaching a strong-willed child.

 

Narrow The Choices

Offer two choices, and make it clear that your child must pick between the two choices. This helps them have some level of control while establishing healthy authority as a parent. Of course, there are subjects that must be covered and your child needs to learn the topics that are required. But could they paint their own map of the world instead of color a preprepared one? Could they jump rope while reciting times tables instead of sitting at the table? Choices can include the method of learning as well as the delivery of the answers.

 

 

Stand By Your Word

If your child disagrees, don’t give in. Once they realize that bad behavior won’t get them what they want, they will back down.

With my child, Leslie, instead of offering a blue cup and her demanding a green one, I’d offer both colors and let her pick from those two. Of course, she’d then want the red cup, but I didn’t give in. She had to pick between the two. This worked for clothes, snacks, and other things. I’d still give my daughter a choice, but I’d limit those choices. After a while, the battles stopped. She soon understood that I wouldn’t give in to her whines.

 

Focus Their Strong-will On Positive Things

Help her channel her energy into positive activities at home, like exercise, musical instruments, or writing. Strong-willed kids often battle with having excess energy. Help them focus that by giving them extra breaks or activities that give them opportunities to expel that pent up bounce. If your family schedule permits, consider allowing your child to play on a recreation sports league such as basketball or soccer. The extra running and interaction with others can give them an outlet for their busy mind and body.

 

 

Fill Their Love Tank

Even while at home, take steps to speak your child’s love language. Make their favorite breakfast, make a special dessert or coffee drink and sit with them on the couch, or take a walk just the two of you. As you build that relationship, they will start to open up and trust you more.

My daughter is a quality time and gifts person. She gets excited when I bring her a pack of gum or her favorite lip gloss from the store. She loves when I take her to coffee or when we go to lunch. As we spent time face-to-face, my daughter opened up about everything she was dealing with. She even confessed to some areas that she struggled with. I discovered that she wasn’t as strong as she liked everyone to believe. When I filled her love tank, her will weakened, and we built a bond that has remained for years.

 

 

Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

Although you might be facing fear and anxiety about schooling your strong-willed child at home, don’t dwell on those feelings. The most important thing to remember is that what your children need most is your love and support. Learning can take place in many ways. But if our kids feel loved and safe, they will continue to excel through any situation that comes along. Remember, you are your child’s biggest fan–show them you believe in them and that you’re there to help them through this.

Together, we will succeed!

 

Here are more resources I think will help you as you are Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

 

My Stay Home Journals Help Kids Focus on Good Things

 

My Stay Home Journal by Tricia Goyer

 

During this time, kids need a place to think, write, or draw what is going on in their hearts and minds so I created these journals to provide kids a special place to record their experiences. I like the sound of “stay home.” It’s a way to focus on the good during a hard time. It’s a great way to help your kids think about what good things may be happening during this time and what they are looking forward to when it’s “safe” for us to return to normal life.

The pages are set up so older kids can write their thoughts (writing practice!) and younger kids can draw their thoughts or have a parent write for them. Need inspiration? Check your Facebook or personal calendar to help think about what your family was doing at certain points on the timeline. I made the insides colored as well so these can be special keepsakes of this great pause in our history.

I’ve designed several styles so every child can have a journal that makes them feel special.

 

You can find all the journals I’ve created here: Stay Home Journals

I even created a FREE printable version. Feel free to share with a teacher or someone who might need it.

Free Stay Home Journal: https://bit.ly/freejournalforkids

 

Free Resources (Not just for kids!) 

My team has put together a list of over 200 amazing resources and courses for you. This is a load of great education for all ages. From the tiny tots to the parents, there are some wonderful sites on this PDF. Yes, you can go to the Smithsonian, tour Yellowstone, or travel to Paris without leaving home!

I’m especially looking forward to every Wednesday, where there will be free, online, worship-painting classes with Blossoming Hearts Studio on Facebook. And don’t forget about the free Lamplighter audiobook too!

The list also has sites for every homeschooling subject you can imagine. Pass this on and share it with your friends: Free Resources for The Whole Family.pdf

 

 

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschool can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live.

 

Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

 

homeschooling basics

 

Advice and Encouragement for Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

Are you struggling with finding hope and help for school at home? I recently talked with Focus on The Family and offered my thoughts and experience with being a homeschool mom of over 25 years. You may have fear and anxiety during this time, I understand and I want to help you get your own heart-centered so you can have peace and be the best parent and teacher you can.

 

Listen in to my Interview on Focus on the Family

 

 

And here’s a PDF with more Work-at-Home Tips!

 

Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my newsletter, check out my podcast, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, or Instagram.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

 

 

 

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