✨Homeschooling in Africa’s Mission Fields

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✨Are you worried that your messy, imperfect life will get in the way of homeschooling?

Today's guest tells reassures us that it’s not perfect conditions, but teaching strength of character and responsibility, that shapes strong, capable adults.

Let’s dive into the extraordinary story of Von, a homeschooling dad six and grandfather to 25, who, alongside his wife, educated their kids in remote African mission fields. Facing challenges like delayed curricula shipments, his wife’s illnesses, and raising kids in a high-stakes, sometime dangerous environments, Von prioritized character and practical skills. His approach—rooted in obedience, great books, and real-world responsibility—produced six successful adults, all now homeschooling their own kids or thriving in careers like programming and running their own construction companies.

🖋️His Key Advice to Homeschooling Parents

👉Focus on Character First: Teach obedience and responsibility early to manage chaos and build lifelong resilience.

👉Use Great Books for Critical Thinking: Read classics together, discuss values, and spark curiosity to teach kids how to learn.

In this episode, you’ll learn👇

* Homeschooling in Crisis: How Von’s family kept learning during his wife’s bed rest by training kids to manage the household.

* Raising Responsible Kids: Strategies like “two-year-old obedience” and “hierarchical obedience” to handle large families.

* Building Work-Ready Teens: Why early jobs (like dairy work at 14) created resumes that outshine college degrees.

* Using Classic Books for Values: How discussions around Little Britches and other stories shaped character and critical thinking.

* Language Learning Regrets and Tips: Why bilingualism matters and how to use free resources and cooking shows to teach Spanish effectively.

PS: Don’t miss the last 10 minutes when Von gives practical advice on teaching kids a 2nd language!

Von inspired me to think more deeply about the importance of raising responsible children with high character. His approach my not be for everyone, but I encourage you to listen with an open heart. As Aristotle says it is the mark of “an educated person to consider an idea without immediately accepting or rejecting it.”

Favorite Quote: “You’re not a grade, you’re a person.”

If you’d like to connect with Von, you can find him at his website.

Disclaimer: These stories are shared without commentary or endorsement. I don’t necessarily agree with every method or approach—my goal is to present real families and their experiences. For my personal advice and approach, head to ClarifiEd.life.

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