parenting

November 28, 2023 by Tricia Goyer 2 Comments

The Most Important Part about Homeschooling

I started homeschooling in 1994. At the time there were no homeschooling blogs, very few curriculum choices, and not very many people to talk with about homeschooling questions.

I remember one gathering of homeschool moms that I went to. We sat in Linda’s living room and just talked about homeschooling. Some moms had been doing it for a while, and they provided tips. In the midst of their tips, there were about 71.3 kids running around, and no one was an expert. We all had very real, very noisy kids. And when I went home, I felt like I had the same joys and struggles as the rest of the moms.

Fast forward twenty years, and I was right back where I started. I had three little ones again and looked forward to digging into full-time homeschooling.

I have to admit it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There is so much curriculum. There are so many blogs, pins, experts, and ideas. Now I have an instant connection with other homeschooling moms that I didn’t have when I first started. I can private message, tweet, or text dozens of homeschool moms at a moment’s notice. I can look on Facebook and see just what they’re doing. And then come the worries about comparing and keeping up.

After thirty years, homeschooling has gained popularity. There are tons more resources, but at the end of the day, it comes down to one thing: you, your child/children, and passing on a love for learning. It’s sitting side-by-side on the couch reading Bible stories. It’s counting M & Ms. It’s going on walks and kicking up fall leaves or finding animal tracks in the snow.

Whether you’re part of a homeschool co-op or not. Whether you have a group of women to gather with or not. Whether you pick this curriculum or that–or not, that’s not what homeschooling is about.

Whenever you get overwhelmed it’s time to ignore the pins, turn off the blogs for a time, and stop those texts. Instead, flip through the books, find something fun, and focus on your kids. Make learning fun, find the most interesting facts, and usher your child into a part of the world he’s never experienced before.

The most important part of homeschooling isn’t what everyone else is doing … it’s that moment when you peer into your child’s life, see the joy of learning, and cherish the moment that God gave you.

Times have changed but one thing hasn’t … those moments with you and your child are the memories that will last more than twenty-five years. They’ll last a lifetime.

Homeschool Success Course

Are you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your homeschooling journey? Do you wish you had a roadmap to help you navigate the challenges and achieve success? Look no further than Tricia Goyer’s Homeschool Success video course!

Tricia Goyer is a homeschooling expert with over 20 years of experience, and she has poured all of her knowledge and wisdom into this comprehensive course. In each video, Tricia shares practical tips and strategies for homeschooling, from choosing a curriculum to managing your time effectively.

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Create a customized curriculum that meets your family’s unique needs
Develop a daily routine that maximizes your time and energy
Cultivate a love of learning in your children and inspire them to reach their full potential
Foster a positive homeschooling environment that nurtures relationships and builds character
Navigate the challenges of homeschooling with confidence and grace

Tricia’s warm and engaging teaching style will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to tackle any homeschooling challenge that comes your way. You’ll also receive a workbook with actionable steps and reflection questions to help you apply your learning to your homeschooling journey.

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn from one of the most respected homeschooling experts in the industry. Enroll in Tricia Goyer’s Homeschool Success video course today and start your journey to homeschooling success!

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9

Purchase the course here.

November 13, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Be The Change

Lately, I’ve been thinking there’s a lot of things I’d like to change:

1) I’ve actively started exercising and using a food journal to lose weight and get in shape.

2) I’ve been trying to curb my spending.

3) And I’ve been learning to be more thankful.

All of those things aren’t easy!

#1 and #2 are things that I now realize need to stem from the inside out. I’ve tried for a long time to “make myself be good.” Now I’m praying for a heart change.

I’m praying that God will fill me up so much of Him that I naturally strive to do the right things in His strength and with His wisdom.

#3 started because I’ve been reading Something More by Catherine Marshall. It’s an older book, but a good one. In it, Catherine talks about “thanking God in all things.” She goes on to encourage readers to thank Him even for the challenging/painful stuff. I’ve started doing that more, and it’s amazing what a different outlook I’ve had. Usually, I’m a joyful person because I try to ignore the hard stuff and instead just focus on the good. But lately I’ve been thanking God for everything easy and hard, and somehow He’s been showing me the good IN it.

I know these are simple lessons.

They are things God has tried to show me in the past. In fact, one of the lessons He’s taught (and retaught) me is that I don’t always need to look for change from external means … sometimes I’m called to BE the change.

This lesson first fit home after our family moved to Montana and were looking for a church home. There was one that God was connecting us to AT EVERY TURN, but personally, I didn’t like it much. In fact, even when John and I felt God calling us there, I REALLY didn’t want to go to that church. Even though the people were nice, the music wasn’t that great and there was no program for the kids. Yet, instead of complaining about it, John and I felt God telling us to do something about it!

Once we became members, WE started doing children’s church and new families started pouring in. Over the years, the church grew and changed. It became the type of place I longed for. Yet, at the time, I didn’t realize that I was part of the change!

Be The Change

Today, you might be thinking about changes in your life. Don’t stop. Don’t become complacent! Remember that God wants to fill you and help you. He wants you to offer Him thanksgiving in the easy stuff and the hard stuff, too. And mostly, if there is change that needs to take place, remember that often YOU are called to be the change. What you want most is out there in the future… have faith in that! Have faith in Him!

No More Grumbles

The Grumble Free Year was another instance when God spoke clearly to my heart that I needed to change. That we, as a family, needed to change. We were in a holding pattern of grumbling and complaining, dissatisfaction and discord. The kids couldn’t go a day with some type of unhappy comment. That’s when I knew we had to make a change. We had to find a way to get in line with what God desired for our family–grateful and thankful hearts.

It wasn’t always easy and the results weren’t immediate, but after a year of no grumbling, our life as a family has radically changed. Now, instead of finding fault and looking for excuses, we find joy in the journey, whether rain or sun. We have learned to laugh at our struggles and look for God in the small inconveniences. Day in and day out, we are growing and becoming more thankful for all we have.

I look forward to sharing this journey with you! Get your copy here: www.thegrumblefreeyear.com.

November 9, 2023 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool (Through Crafting!)

How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool

We brought our kids home to homeschool after adoption. Because the older girls had been in public school for all their lives they had an idea of what school looked like—lots of lessons and worksheets and counting down the hours until they can play.

When we started homeschooling with Sonlight, they didn’t know what to think. Not only was mom spending hours a day reading wonderful books to them, but their hands were also often free to be creative while they listened to me read.

Yes, I let my kids do art while I read. The whole dining room is often a mess when they’re done, but they seem to pay attention better when their hands are busy! In addition to art, they are allowed to play with legos or small toys. My daughters might play with their stuffed animals and my son might have his toy cars “vrooming” while I read the lesson. This allows them to focus their minds while calming the innate desire to move their hands and bodies.

How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool Outside

Who says you have to homeschool inside? Kids who get fresh air and sunshine every day are healthier. Let them go outside and count the number of red cars they see on a walk. Let them draw math problems or spelling words with sidewalk chalk in the driveway. Help them find leaves and rocks for science. The world is their classroom. Help them see everything in their environment as a source of information and you’ll grow lifelong learners who thrive.

Here are some of our favorite craft items that I keep in stock. I actually got this list from my “previously ordered” list on Amazon!

For sculpting:

Magic clay (dries hard)

Bake clay

More on How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool (Through Crafting!)

Origami

Beading:

Tools a parent can help with:

Hot Glue Gun

Click here to see all the fun things listed here and more!

These items are sure to bring hours of fun while learning!

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Create a customized curriculum that meets your family’s unique needs
Develop a daily routine that maximizes your time and energy
Cultivate a love of learning in your children and inspire them to reach their full potential
Foster a positive homeschooling environment that nurtures relationships and builds character
Navigate the challenges of homeschooling with confidence and grace

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9

Purchase the course here.

November 8, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Living a Grateful Life

It’s hard to believe it’s been over six years since we started living a grateful life with The Grumble Free Year. We started August 2017 and that Thanksgiving Grandma broke her back. We went on the cruise August 2018, and (after writing about it all) The Grumble Free Year released November 2019.

One of the questions I’ve been asked the most is, “Have you kept going?” Yes! In fact, being interviewed about this book has helped to put this message at the forefront of my mind.

Today, I’m sharing ways to turn “less grumbling” into a lifestyle change.

Living a Grateful Life

Here are ways you can incorporate “grumble free” into daily living!

1. Read God’s Word and apply it. This includes capturing grumbling thoughts. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (NIV).

Paul, through the leading of the Holy Spirit, wrote this because he knew it was a problem then, just as it is now. We are human and our minds are made to look for problems to keep us safe. Yet, when we see problems (with ourselves, our kids, our work, our home) the grumbling starts.

The sooner I capture my thoughts, the better I do about controlling my tongue.

For example, when I notice one of the kids has just made a huge mess I do three things:

1. Pray and ask Jesus to help my thoughts be obedient to Him

2. Find a solution

3. Turn my mind to gratitude.

A solution would be to ask the child to clean up the mess. Gratitude can focus on God’s love, having a home, and having healthy kids. The more often we take our thoughts captive, the easier it becomes.

Also, when I do mess up and grumble, I’m learning to give myself grace. I’ve discovered when I give myself grace I’m more likely to extend grace to others.

2. Spend time with someone you love. When your “love tank” is full, love and gratitude can more easily pour out to others.

3. Plan an adventure. Just the planning can bring happiness and excitement!

4. Pray for a friend. When we pray for another person’s needs it reminds us how much we have to be grateful for.

5. Seek 5 minutes of peace. Each of us needs time to breathe and relax.

6. Spend time in nature. Enjoying God’s creation reminds us that we have a Creator who cares.

7. Thank your kids for a job well done. The best way to be grateful is just to be grateful. When I ask a child to do something, and they do, I thank him or her for it. When my husband pays the bills, I thank him for that.

8. Praise God for all His good gifts. Hebrews 13:15 says, “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name” (NIV). I love that it’s called a “sacrifice” of praise. Sacrifice is a noun. According to Vocabulary.com, “A sacrifice is a loss or something you give up, usually for the sake of a better cause.” What do we lose when we praise? Time, attention on ourselves, ownership of our attitudes, and our grumbling. And when we give praise to God remember that He is worthy.

Living a Grateful Life

I love printables. They help me keep visual reminders of important or inspiring quotes or ideas in places that I can focus on during my day. That’s why I made you this PDF graphic! Click here to HERE to print.

How many can you do TODAY?

Here’s more inspiration–I recently chatted with Yvette Hampton about how to have a Grumble Free Homeschool … but the tips will work for ANY home! Listen HERE while you fold a load of laundry, wait in the carpool lane, or take the dog for a walk.

With a full heart,

Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my email updates, or follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, 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.

November 2, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

5 Ways to Stay Motivated as a Homeschool Teacher

It’s amazing to think that I’ve been a homeschool teacher now for over 25 years. That’s right—John and I made the decision to homeschool when our son Cory was ready to start kindergarten. We’ve stayed true to that choice through all the ups and downs. And with ten kids (yes, I said ten!) there have been some trying times and long days. However, through it all, we thank God that we’ve been able to see the kids grow and thrive as we’ve educated them at home.

But there are days…

That’s why, if you’re a homeschool teacher, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. I know it can be difficult and that’s why I hope these 5 Ways to Stay Motivated as a Homeschool Teacher can help you find some inspiration and peace for those days when you feel discouraged or off track.

On hard days, this is what I do:

1. Think of my kids as adults and look back on our homeschooling with fondness.

My adult children are some of my best friends. Quite often, you’ll find us sitting around the dinner table playing board games on a Friday night. My oldest son, Cory is a children’s pastor at our church, my daughter Leslie is a missionary in the Czech Republic, and my son Nathan is a Christian author just starting his career.

I’m immensely proud of them. And I know that one of the reasons they are all successful, happy, and living lives dedicated to the Lord is because of our choice to homeschool. All the years we invested in the one-on-one teaching times, reading as a family, and sharing our daily lives and faith with them have paid off. That is something that never fails to inspire me.

2. Read a book together that I’ve been wanting to read for a long time.

One of the best things about the homeschool curriculum that we use from Sonlight is that it includes so many wonderful books. There isn’t a day that goes by without reading in our homeschool. Sometimes we are reading as a family, sometimes individually, and sometimes the children are reading to each other. Not only are we all learning together but we are building family bonds that will last a lifetime.

But don’t feel limited to just reading homeschool books. Read the classics like Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Read age-appropriate magazines and newspapers. Teach your children to read and understand food labels so they can make healthy choices as adults.

Teenagers especially can gain great insights from reading about current events online and being taught how to look at the reporting of those events critically. They can also find where to look for the truth in the various different sources. This can help them form strong defenses as they enter into a world that is quickly slipping into more and more ambiguity.

3. During dinner have your kids share what they’ve learned with their dad or another family member.

For part of our homeschool years, my husband John has worked from home. While that has been a huge blessing, he is still working during that time and often in another area of the house. Being able to share what they’re learning with him is something they have always looked forward to.

As a working author (who also speaks and travels throughout the year) there are times when I’ve been away and get the joy of having the kids share with me what they’ve learned. Being able to teach someone what you’ve learned also reinforces that subject. It’s a win-win and a great way to build your child’s self-confidence.

4. Help a new homeschool mom. It inspires me and makes me realize how far I’ve come.

I love helping others. It gives me joy and a sense of purpose. So many others have fed into me throughout the years and I remember how much it has meant to me. When I meet a new homeschool mom at a conference I recognize that look in her eyes—the look that says “Help!” That’s why I try to share as much as I can about how I’ve made homeschooling work for our family.

But the truth is, I can’t help everyone individually. I’m only one person. Luckily, I found a way to reproduce myself—through writing. Through my books, I can reach so many more people. My friend Kristi Clover and I joined together and wrote Homeschool Basics. 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. It’s 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 homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live.

5. Take your homeschool outside the house: serve in the community, and join a Bible Study together.

I started a local Teen MOPS group when my three oldest children were still young. At times, I worried that I wasn’t doing enough teaching. Maybe I wasn’t the best homeschool mom when I brought them on errands with me to serve in our community. But what I learned as I’ve gotten older (and so have my kids) is that they were learning—they were learning what it means to serve God and surrender your life to His call.

We are still serving teen moms and their families. But now, we all help. Every week we get the opportunity to love on teen mothers and their children at our church in Little Rock, Arkansas. Seeing my children serving together and finding joy and purpose in that has taught me how homeschooling works. We have made loving and serving others part of our education. And of all the things we hope to teach our children, knowing and loving God—and others—should be our number one goal. If we have done that, we have taught them well.

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Create a customized curriculum that meets your family’s unique needs
Develop a daily routine that maximizes your time and energy
Cultivate a love of learning in your children and inspire them to reach their full potential
Foster a positive homeschooling environment that nurtures relationships and builds character
Navigate the challenges of homeschooling with confidence and grace

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9

Purchase the course here.

October 31, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Growing Your Child’s Love For Jesus and Others!

As a homeschooling parent, I know growing your child’s love for Jesus and others is a priority. Like me, you probably chose to homeschool because you want your children to have a strong, spiritual foundation. We feel homeschooling will give us more of an opportunity to help our children grow to love Jesus and others. Yet when it comes down to the day-to-day busyness of life (and reading, writing, and arithmetic), this often gets pushed to the side. Here’s how to make it a priority:

Make Time for Bible reading.

When we start getting behind in English or Math, reading the Bible is often the first thing we cut out. Yet knowing the Word of God will help our children throughout their lives. As children grow in their relationship with their Heavenly Father, God will be there to teach, lead, and guide them.

If kids can read, I recommend the Discoverer’s Bible, which is part of our Sonlight Curriculum. The Bible provides the full text (Genesis to Revelation) of the New International Reader’s Version®of the Bible. Edited for a third-grade reading level, the NIrV uses the NIV as its base but breaks long sentences into shorter ones and substitutes simpler words where appropriate.

There are many Bible reading plans you can try, but the important thing is teaching children to read to understand … and not read to finish. Sometimes my children will read a whole chapter, during their Bible reading times. Other times, we will read one or two verses and take time to discuss them. What’s important is that God’s Word is read and God’s messages take root in children’s hearts.

And that’s why I appreciate the Sonlight Curriculum—the Bible Study is included in the lesson plan. Another wonderful book we loved, that is part of Sonlight, is Mary Jones and Her Bible. This true story made us appreciate how much God’s Word should mean to us. It’s something we shouldn’t take for granted.

This is Alyssa reading from the Discoverer’s Bible in her “dramatic” voice!

Serve and Pray for Others

We can teach our kids important character traits, but we also must allow them to use those traits. Kids can learn about love, but it better is to allow them to love others by holding a canned food drive. Kids can learn about being joyful, but it better is if they share their joy with an elderly family member or neighbor. When kids serve, it allows Jesus to work through them, and it’s a gift they carry into life.

We attend an inner-city church, and our kids have many opportunities to serve. One of their favorite things to do is to help babysit for the Teen Mom Support Group that I lead. My younger girls love to play with babies as the young moms receive help and instruction.

I also teach my children to pray for others—those who live close and those who live far.

One of our favorite Sonlight books was Window on the World. This book is a wonderful introduction to ninety-two largely unevangelized countries and peoples of the world. From Afghanistan to the Zulus, and beyond. Each two-page spread includes a story, maps, interesting facts, full-color photos and illustrations, and suggested prayers. A treasure trove for developing a godly heart for the world!

Grow in Gratitude

It’s easy to take all we have for granted. It’s easy to grumble when we don’t have what we want or when things haven’t gone as planned. Our family recently took on the challenge of trying to stop our grumbles and focusing on grumbling instead. You can read about it here: The Grumble Free Year.

The desire for something “better” in our homeschooling day, makes us forget what we already have. Comparison with other homeschooling families always results in grumbling. Gratitude, on the other hand, reminds us of what God has done. It makes us understand that we have enough to share with others.

Do you find yourself grumbling? Take time in God’s presence to evaluate what is at the root of your grumbling and discontentment. Then, think about things you can change. Ask, “How can I focus on the solution, not just the problem.”

Also, only God can change our hearts, and He can change our kids’ hearts too. Things change when we seek His help in our day.

Instead of simply trying to change our kids’ behavior, we can remind them that we love them, and God loves them … and they can turn to God in prayer when they need help. Then, intentionally notice and praise your kids when they are doing something well! Point out you can see how God is helping them.

Life never goes as we expect. Homeschool days never turn out as perfect as we’d planned, yet we can either grumble about those things, or we can shift our perspective. We can focus on the good blessings of having a home and a family—and a chance to grow to love Jesus and others better. It’s then we lift our eyes to God. When we remember all He’s done for us, our troubled hearts can become grateful hearts. The more we do this, the more we hard-wire our grateful response, even in the middle of our homeschooling day.

When I first started homeschooling, I believed my job was to get the schoolwork done. Yes, that is part of my job, but with each year that passes, I know that growing my children’s hearts for loving Jesus and others is truly the most important part. These are lessons this homeschooling mom is thankful for!

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 homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live.

Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer.

Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

October 30, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Praying God’s Word For Yourself and Your Child

Through the years I’ve seen how important it is to pray God’s word over and for my children. I’ve also watched how God moved in my kid’s hearts and lives when I shared the scriptures with them. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to read through the Bible each year and journal what God speaks to my heart through His word.

“I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, Lord, make me live in safety.” Psalm 4:8

Lord, I am so thankful that you always watch over my child, even when she lies down in sleep. May my child always sleep peacefully with the knowledge of your care.

Is it your goal to read through the Bible in 2019? More than that, do you want to apply God’s will to your life and the life of your child? I’ve created some resources for that!

Daily Bread

First, my book Praying Through The Bible in One Year allows you to do both!

Praying Through the Bible in One Year is a Scripture Reading Plan and Guided Journal to help you read and apply God’s Word to your life.

My desire is for this journal to guide you as you seek God and His truth. It’s divided into three parts.

*Praying Through the Bible in One Year* interior pages.

1. A Scripture Reading Plan. This plan takes you from Genesis to Revelation. Reading four or five chapters a day, you’ll read through the whole Bible in one year! Each week has five days of reading, leaving the weekends for catch-up.

2. A Daily Scripture. Pause on these verses, read them closely, and consider how they can impact your prayers for your kids.

3. A Prayer Prompt. Through these prompts, you’ll focus on ways you can pray for your kids. Blank space is provided for you to continue the prayer or to write down other meaningful Scriptures that you read during the day’s reading.

Leave a Legacy

Second, I created a free course to help you master the skill of journaling through the Bible to create a Legacy Bible for your own children.

Join me as I guide you in sharing God’s Word with your children or grandchildren through the pages of your own journaling Bible. Through this free, 6-week course you’ll discover how to share your own personal reflections through the pages of God’s Word.

It’s such a meaningful way to pass on heartfelt prayers alongside your favorite Scripture passages, leaving a heritage of faith. Each journal entry will be a treasured gift to future generations.

Find Community

There’s no doubt about it, we need each other. God created us for community. That’s why I started a group for us to connect and share how He is moving in our lives through His word when my podcast The Daily Bible Podcast began. Every morning we post the daily verses and the word of the day, and we talk about how the Spirit spoke to us regarding that passage. Find it here!

Worth The Effort

Finally, I want to encourage you not to give up. The journal isn’t dated because I know how much pressure that can bring. Life happens. If you get off track one week, just pick up again the next week. God is more concerned with your desire to read His Word and connect with His heart than He is with your ability to complete a weekly task.

This is your journal concerning your prayers for your kids. If it takes you two years to read through the Bible, that will be wonderful! Know your efforts, whether over one year or two or more, will be worth it.

Pick up a copy for yourself and share with friends! May God’s Word transform each of us this year!

Order Praying Through The Bible in a Year here.

Are you new here? Follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, or Instagram.

October 26, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Chapter Books that Teach Kids Not to Grumble and Complain

As a homeschooling, Sonlight mom, I love the joy of reading books together. I also love that books allow me to talk to my children about important character traits, such as not grumbling.

As we read about a character’s challenges, my kids and I also talk about how blessed we are in our lives. This became important to our family as we decided to strive for a “Grumble Free Year.” All eleven of our family members (including my grandma), tried to go a year without grumbling. It wasn’t easy, but we did focus on changing from the inside out … and these novels that we read aloud helped us do that. During our year, we had many great conversations about the little things we often complain about compared to the big challenges the characters in the books faced.

Books can be a great launching point for teaching gratitude for your family, too! Here are some of our favorite Sonlight books that have really grown our gratitude:

Mary Jones & Her Bible This is an incredible true story of a girl so inspired by the Bible that she determines to get a copy—whatever it takes! This book made us grateful that we have Bibles that we can read at any time. More than once my kids told me, “I can’t imagine not having a Bible of my own to read.”

The Great Trouble As a “mudlark,” the orphan, Eel, spends his days in the River Thames, searching for odds and ends to sell. Not only does Eel have a secret, but there is also an outbreak of the “blue death.” This book captivated all my children. We talked a lot about how grateful we were for our living conditions and for our health care.

Only the Names Remain: The Cherokees and the Trail of Tears From 1837 to 1838, thousands of Cherokee Indians were forced to march from their homelands in Georgia to live in exile in Arkansas. Fighting bitter cold and blazing heat with little food or water, one out of every four died. This sad, but moving, account of the Trail of Tears made us thankful for the stability of our lives. Yet it also made us aware of the pain so many endured.

These two middle graders of mine love to read. With Sonlight we always have great choices that encourage and inspire them.

There are many afternoons they’ll sneak off with a book and get lost in new worlds. This is such a blessing to me as a mom who loves reading. I hope you catch your kiddos sneaking a book off the shelf, cuddled away in their favorite reading fort, or tucked in bed asking for just one more chapter. Cherish these precious moments and don’t forget to take some time out to get caught up in the pages of a book yourself!

Chapter Books that Teach Kids Not to Grumble and Complain

Books can be a great launching point for teaching gratitude for your family, too! Here are three questions to ask:

1. What makes you grateful for your life after reading this book?

2. What character traits do you appreciate?

3. What did we learn about being grateful?

Unexpected Blessings

Sonlight has helped us create a family culture around great literature. The quality, depth, and worldview help mold my children into lifelong learners and fully devoted followers of Christ. The number one goal of Sonlight is to teach my child to seek God’s kingdom above everything else. Their attention to high-quality, engaging content does just that. I know when I choose Sonlight, I’m choosing a curriculum that enhances and enforces the worldview and qualities I hold dear as a parent.

I want my children to “sense the excitement and challenge of following Jesus in big and little things – not only at home and at church but also in their work and culture.” That’s why I trust Sonlight!

For more information about homeschooling excellence with Sonlight curriculum visit https://www.sonlight.com/

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Create a customized curriculum that meets your family’s unique needs
Develop a daily routine that maximizes your time and energy
Cultivate a love of learning in your children and inspire them to reach their full potential
Foster a positive homeschooling environment that nurtures relationships and builds character
Navigate the challenges of homeschooling with confidence and grace

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9

Purchase the course here.

October 24, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

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 principles 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 coloring a prepared 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 on 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 in 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 it 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.

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!

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

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

Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer.

Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

October 18, 2023 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

5 Simple Prayers That Will Make You a Better Parent

Being a parent is hard. It’s easy to get too focused on the daily struggles and frustrations and forget that each day is an opportunity to teach, guide, and grow my children into the unique people God created them to be.

I often come up with goals for how to relate and react to my kids, but goals only go so far; I usually end up ditching them before one day passes. Instead, I’ve discovered the best action for becoming a better parent is sinking to my knees.

Below are five simple prayers that I’ve prayed, inviting God to change me so that I can change how I see my kids and how I handle each day.

1. Lord, give me new eyes. Help me see each challenge in parenting as an opportunity to train my children toward right thinking and right living.

Proverbs 1:8 says, “My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction” (NLT). Lord, this is a reminder that it is my job to instruct. I shouldn’t expect my children to understand right and wrong. Lord, help me not to let opportunities for training slip by because I don’t want to take the time to teach my children what is right and good. Help me to remember that the small things I teach my children now will be the foundation for all to come in their lives.

2. Lord, give me a new attitude in my parenting. Remind me that any moment of the day can be a “start over” moment and a chance for an attitude adjustment.

My bad attitude comes when I want my way or when I feel others are intruding in my comfort or peace. As Ephesians 4:2 says, “Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love,” (NLT). I know, Lord, that it’s impossible to be humble, gentle, patient and loving and have a bad attitude at the same time. Change me on the inside, Lord, so I can change my mind and actions.

3. Lord, give me a new focus in my parenting. Help me to pluck any worries from my mind and place them firmly in your hands.

I know when I’m looking at worries and fear I’m not looking at You. I also know when I’m looking at You my worries and fear become a blur. Instead, help me to be thankful for all the ways You’ve already shown up in my job as a parent. Help me to trust that You’ll be faithful in the future, too. As Philippines 4:6 says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” I thank You that my focus on You will change my heart and my thoughts for the better.

4. Lord, give me compassion. Remind me as a parent what it was like to be my children’s ages and have to face the struggles of growing up.

Also, Lord, give me wisdom to understand that my children face new struggles I never had to at their ages because of the numerous ways our world has changed. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 says, “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us,” (NLT). Help me, Lord, to be compassionate and comforting even when it’s easier just to brush off their concerns.

5. Lord, give me wisdom. Help me to see my children as who You designed them to be, instead of the images I have set up in my mind as their parent of who I’d like them to become.

I may think it’s important that my children get good grades or do well in sports, but I know that You see each of my children’s future and You’ve designed each child to carry out a special role on this earth that will help to glorify You and impact others in a positive way. Help me to be more concerned with values and habits that will impact my children for a lifetime, instead of filling up their time with activities that the world says is important. As Psalm 139:14 says, “Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.” Lord, don’t allow me to try to put my children into cookie cutters after You’ve created them complex and marvelous.”

When it comes to these prayers, they are not ones you pray once and then all is good from that point out.

Instead, they are prayers to pray often. In fact, I encourage you to print them up and tuck them into your Bible. I’ve discovered that the more I turn to God for help, the better able I am to be an instructive, patient, thankful, compassionate and wise parent for my kids.

Are you new here? You might want to subscribe to my email updates, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, or Instagram.

October 16, 2023 by Tricia Goyer 5 Comments

7 Prayers to Say for Your Children

These 7 prayers to say for your children can help be a springboard for your prayer life. Do you need new words to guide your heart as you seek God for your family? Let these prayers guide you.

7 Prayers to Say for Your Children

I often pray for my children…

That they are healthy.

That they are safe.

Oh, that they are obedient.

The other day I was reading the Bible, and I came upon Philippians 1:9-11:

I pray that your love will overflow more and more,
and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.
For I want you to understand what really matters,
so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.
May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—
the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—
for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (NLT)

As I read it I thought: This is a perfect Scripture to pray for my kids. And they are perfect prayers to say for your children.

I’ve broken this prayer into seven days, and I found other Scriptures to pray too. Won’t you join me?

Sunday: Pray for love that overflows

Lord, may the love of _______ increase and overflow for those in our family and for everyone else. (1 Thessalonians 3:12)

Monday: Pray for growth in knowledge

Lord, may _______ grow to love your Word. May the heart of _______ trust your commands. May _______ seek good judgment. Fill _______ with the knowledge of your will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. (Psalm 119:66, Colossians 1:9)

Tuesday: Pray for understanding of what really matters

Lord, may _______ know your will and understand what is right because of your law. May _______ not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but be transformed into a new person through changed thoughts and through knowing your perfect and pleasing will. (Romans 2:18, Romans 12:2)

Wednesday: Pray for a pure and blameless life

Lord, may _______ keep firm in faith, staying pure and blameless, until the end. May the good work you started in _______ carry on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. May _______ hold firmly to the word of life, so life’s labor will not be in vain. (1 Corinthians 1:8, Philippians 1:6, Philippians 2:6)

Thursday: Pray for the fruit of salvation

Lord, may _______ be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. May _______ delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. And because of your word planted deep, may whatever _______ do prosper. (Psalm 1:2-3)

Friday: Pray for righteous character and for a life in Jesus

Lord, may _____ be a peacemaker who sows in peace and reaps a harvest of righteousness. Lord, may your name be honored because of the life of _______. I know this is only possible because of your grace. May love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control flow out of the life of _______ because of your spirit within. (James 3:18 2 Thessalonians 1:12, Galatians 5:22-23)

Saturday: Pray for glory and praise to God

Lord, may _______ produce much fruit so that you may be glorified. May the life of _______ be for your praise and glory, because of hope put in you. (John 15:8, Ephesians 1:14)

As parents, it’s important to pray for our kids, and I’m so thankful that God has given us His Word as a foundation to do just that! He has given you prayers to say for your children!

Enjoy this free printable 7 Prayers to Say for Your Children:

I hope these prayers to say for your children are as helpful to you as they have been for me! Do you have any that you would like to add? Let me know!

~Tricia

More Resources from Tricia Goyer:

Prayers the Changed History (pre-order today!)

Praying for Your Future Husband (for teens girls)

Whit’s End Mealtime Devotions (for families)

Balanced (for busy moms)

parenting

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Homeschool Success Course only $9 Purchase the course here.

Purchase the course here.

Be The Change

I’m praying that God will fill me up so much of Him that I naturally strive to do the right things in His strength and with His wisdom.

I know these are simple lessons.

Be The Change

No More Grumbles

How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool

How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool Outside

For sculpting:

For creative crafting:

To make google eye puppets:

For sketching:

Art books:

For stamping:

For bracelet making:

For felt dolls and animals:

For painting:

Craft books:

Box kits:

More on How to Get Your Kids to Pay Attention While You Homeschool (Through Crafting!)

Tools a parent can help with:

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Homeschool Success Course only $9 Purchase the course here.

Purchase the course here.

The sooner I capture my thoughts, the better I do about controlling my tongue.

Living a Grateful Life

5 Ways to Stay Motivated as a Homeschool Teacher

1. Think of my kids as adults and look back on our homeschooling with fondness.

2. Read a book together that I’ve been wanting to read for a long time.

3. During dinner have your kids share what they’ve learned with their dad or another family member.

4. Help a new homeschool mom. It inspires me and makes me realize how far I’ve come.

5. Take your homeschool outside the house: serve in the community, and join a Bible Study together.

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Homeschool Success Course only $9 Purchase the course here.

Purchase the course here.

Make Time for Bible reading.

Serve and Pray for Others

I also teach my children to pray for others—those who live close and those who live far.

Grow in Gratitude

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Daily Bread

Leave a Legacy

Find Community

Worth The Effort

Chapter Books that Teach Kids Not to Grumble and Complain

Books can be a great launching point for teaching gratitude for your family, too! Here are some of our favorite Sonlight books that have really grown our gratitude:

More Great Reads For Growing Readers

The Monk Who Shook the World The Story of Martin Luther held us spellbound. We could not believe all the rules and relics that past church officials used to control people. It made us grateful that we can go to church and serve God, knowing we have direct access to Him.

Chapter Books that Teach Kids Not to Grumble and Complain

Unexpected Blessings

Homeschool Success Course

With Homeschool Success, you’ll discover how to:

Homeschool Success Course only $9 Purchase the course here.

Purchase the course here.

Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

Narrow The Choices

Stand By Your Word

Focus Their Strong-will On Positive Things

Fill Their Love Tank

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

1. Lord, give me new eyes. Help me see each challenge in parenting as an opportunity to train my children toward right thinking and right living.

2. Lord, give me a new attitude in my parenting. Remind me that any moment of the day can be a “start over” moment and a chance for an attitude adjustment.

3. Lord, give me a new focus in my parenting. Help me to pluck any worries from my mind and place them firmly in your hands.

4. Lord, give me compassion. Remind me as a parent what it was like to be my children’s ages and have to face the struggles of growing up.

5. Lord, give me wisdom. Help me to see my children as who You designed them to be, instead of the images I have set up in my mind as their parent of who I’d like them to become.

When it comes to these prayers, they are not ones you pray once and then all is good from that point out.

7 Prayers to Say for Your Children

As I read it I thought: This is a perfect Scripture to pray for my kids. And they are perfect prayers to say for your children.

Sunday: Pray for love that overflows

Monday: Pray for growth in knowledge

Wednesday: Pray for a pure and blameless life

Thursday: Pray for the fruit of salvation

Friday: Pray for righteous character and for a life in Jesus

Saturday: Pray for glory and praise to God

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.

Homeschool Success Course only $9
Purchase the course here.