Homeschool Better Together with Pam Barnhill

Ready to actually use a foreign language in your homeschool—and give your high schooler credit for it? This episode is a breath of fresh air for every parent who’s ever tried to check the “foreign language” box…and wondered if anything was actually sticking.Today, I’m joined again by Adelaide Olguin, founder of Talkbox Mom, whose innovative program teaches families to use a second language in real life (think: snack time, errands, or even brushing teeth). She and her husband, Hector, have raised their three boys across five continents, speaking multiple languages wherever they go.Recently, Adelaide expanded Talkbox Mom to serve high schoolers too. If the idea of high school “credit” makes your palms sweat, don’t worry: she’s sharing exactly how to make real-world fluency count for both your transcript and your family connection.We chat about what it takes to homeschool high school foreign language with confidence and joy—even if you’re learning right alongside your teen, juggling multiple ages, or terrified of testing.Wondering if you can keep things hands-on and still get a transcript-ready result? This episode will have you saying “da,” “sí,” or just plain “yes, please!”What you’ll learn:The common pressure (and myth) around “doing high school foreign language right”—and how to actually serve your studentWhy most traditional programs leave kids unable to actually speak another language (even after years of study)How Talkbox Mom’s high school program works (yes, including record keeping, grading, and what “counts” as a credit)Practical ideas to integrate language learning with real family life—no need to become a grammar drill sergeantEasy ways to adapt if you have teens and little ones (or a teen who surprises you with a “random” language they want to study)Why fluency opens up opportunities for college, career, travel, and communityHow to handle grading, cultural projects, and “testing”—especially if you’re learning right along with your teenReal-life encouragement for the “type A” mom who needs a system (but wants actual results)Resources Mentioned:Talkbox Mom + Free Starter Pack and all other resources Adelaide mentionedYMB #54 Natural Foreign Language Learning: A Conversation with Adelaide Olguin (Podcast)Language Learning Made Fun With a Fluency Approach (Podcast)For full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt45

Are you homeschooling a neurodivergent child, or just feeling like the “typical” homeschool advice doesn’t fit your real life? This episode is for all the mamas who secretly (or not-so-secretly) wish for a blueprint, but end up building a rollercoaster every single day.Today, I’m joined by Amie, a veteran mom of one, homeschooling her neurodivergent son, and living proof that “just one kid” does NOT mean it’s always a walk in the park! (Try keeping up with a high-speed Wikipedia page who only wants to talk about trains and Japanese sailing. It’s an Olympic sport.)Amie opens up about her journey: from the failed attempt at “Best School in the System” to finding a unique family rhythm at home, letting go of expectations, and embracing a blend of Montessori, Charlotte Mason, and good old, fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants adaptability. We dive into what school looks like for a wildly curious, deeply-focused teen and how Wonder Studies (yes, still with her high schooler!) has become a lifeline for jumpstarting curiosity and keeping herself sane.Wonder how to juggle rabbit trails, box-checking, and your own perfectionist guilt? Amie and I get real about dropping the Pinterest boards and finding peace in the “messy middle.” If your homeschool feels all over the place. Spoiler: you’re in good company.What you’ll learn:Why letting go of “school should look like school” is the first step to real joyExactly how Amie balances deep-dive interests with actually “doing the school things”Why unit studies + living books + rabbit holes are magic for neurodivergent and neurotypical kids alikeTips for Morning Time with a single, high-intensity learner (and why baskets save everyone’s sanity!)How Wonder Studies gives teens independence and mamas instant reliefLetting go of perfectionism, surviving “no core subjects this week,” and still raising an amazing kidWhy curiosity and joy matter just as much, if not more, than checking the boxesResources mentioned in this episode:Wonder Studies Annual AccessTeens on Track resources:Morning Time PlansFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt44

Are you craving more joy, flexibility, and real connection in your homeschool? Today’s episode is a deep-dive with Angela Huber, one of our own Homeschool Better Together community moms. Angela’s homeschool journey began like so many: She swore she’d never do it, then got thrown into elearning during 2020 (which, spoiler, did NOT spark joy). Fast-forward, she’s now navigating homeschooling three daughters (with learning differences and a toddler in the mix) and has made some major changes to reclaim that family-learning magic.Angela shares exactly why her family pivoted away from a rigorous co-op (goodbye, hours of homework and family separation!), and leaned all-in with Wonder Studies, family-style learning, and a focus on togetherness. We get honest about the big switch: her fears around consistency and accountability, how she supports her girls with dyslexia, and why it sometimes feels like the toddler is actually the one in charge.We laugh about the morning basket snuggles, get nerdy about “connected learning moments,” and get really real about what matters most: kids who want to be with you (even if the science experiment flops and the baby steals everyone’s pencils).If you’ve ever wondered whether multi-age, family-style learning can actually work (or you need encouragement to step out of the “schooly” grind), this one’s for you.What you’ll learn:The surprising reason Angela ditched an intense co-op (and how it changed her homeschool culture)How she supports TWO kids with dyslexia, builds in “together time,” and keeps learning joyful… even with a toddler underfootExactly what a relaxed, real-life Wonder Studies day looks like (spoiler: it’s not color-coded or Pinterest perfect)The power of “connected learning moments” and why family learning is deeper (and way more fun!)How to overcome fears around “gaps,” consistency, and accountability when you leave a co-opThe simple routines and tools Angela uses to keep learning happening year-roundWhy her kids say their favorite part isn’t a resource or experiment—but simply “being together”Resources mentioned in this episode:Wonder Studies Morning Time resources from PamHistory Plus OnlineSpelling PlusLogic of EnglishHomeschool Better Together Free CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt43

Is your homeschool running on autopilot and losing its spark? You're not alone, and you’re definitely not failing. In this special episode, I’m getting real about a syndrome I call the “Ho Hum Homeschool.” You know, when you’re doing all the things, color-coded planners, checklists, math, and reading, but somehow, none of it feels like actual learning. The days start to blur together. The joy fades. You start wondering: why does this feel so hard? (And if it’s just us, or if everyone’s eating cereal for every meal in May.)Grab a cool drink, your favorite homeschool catalog, and let’s have a gut-check. I’ll walk you through the five big warning signs your homeschool might be a little (or a lot) off track, even if you look good on paper. Spoiler: It’s not about buying new curriculum, hacking your whole schedule, or laminating every last thing in sight.But don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging! I’m inviting you to my favorite (and totally free) workshop, The Case of the Ho Hum Homeschool, where we’ll use some playful detective work and real-life encouragement to uncover the three small but powerful shifts that can bring the heart, the connection, and the joy back into your homeschool days. No trench coat required, I promise.Here’s what we’re covering:The true signs your homeschool is flatlining (even if you’re “checking the boxes”)Why more curriculum and new schedules aren’t the solution to burnout (and what is)Why fun and connection are always the first things to get cut, and how to fix itHow to design a homeschool day that actually feels good for your family (without the guilt or overwhelm)A behind-the-scenes sneak peek at my free, hope-filled workshop to help you reset before next year (even if you’re already tired planning!)Mentioned resources:Sign up for The Case of the Ho Hum Homeschool workshopWonder StudiesOur episode on schedule ideasFree communityReady for clarity and actual hope (not just another to-do list)?Head to pambarnhill.com/hohum to save your seat for the workshop, free, actionable, and replay available!

Are you facing a move and feeling completely overwhelmed about starting over with your homeschool? Maybe you’re wishing for some sense of rhythm and comfort when everything else around you is shifting.In this episode, I talk with Melaney Smith, a pastor’s wife and homeschool mom of three, about what it’s like to leave everything behind and begin again. Melaney recently moved her family from Stockton, California, all the way to the snowy prairies of North Dakota. She generously shares what it was like to grieve, adjust (and freeze!), and eventually discover her new groove as a homeschooling mom.We talk about what really happens when your routines get tossed upside-down and how to handle the emotional load, the reality of creating community in a completely new place, and how tools like Autopilot became Melaney’s secret weapon during the chaos. In her story, you’ll find surprising insights about why familiar routines matter so much during big transitions and how flexible habits can truly anchor your family when everything else feels unfamiliar.If you are walking through a big life change or just need some honest encouragement (plus a few laughs about frozen winters and missing good hot sauce), you’ll find practical help and camaraderie right here.What you’ll learn:What actually happens (emotionally and practically) when you move cross-country with your family and begin homeschooling againHow consistency and familiar homeschool rhythms can help everyone adjust after a big moveWhy planning tools and a supportive community are essential during chaotic seasonsThe basics of “Minimum Viable Days” and why these can be a lifesaver when your regular routines are impossibleCreative ideas for adapting your homeschool to new climates, schedules, and culturesWhy taking three to five years to feel at home is normal—and perfectly okayHow letting go of perfection and choosing to show up faithfully brings peace and growthResources mentioned:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotHomeschool Consistency BootcampPodcast episode on the Minimum Viable DayHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt42

Karissa Martin, a dedicated homeschooling mom of four, shares her inspiring journey through a challenging year filled with family crises. She explores how she managed to keep homeschooling afloat while juggling significant responsibilities, revealing her do-the-next-thing planning strategy. Karissa emphasizes the importance of asking for help and finding strength in vulnerability. With community support, her children's education not only survived the chaos but thrived, teaching valuable life lessons along the way. Tune in for practical ideas and a hefty dose of encouragement!

Are you in a season where homeschooling just feels… well, impossible? Juggling toddlers, moving houses, job changes—or maybe even facing heart surgery for your baby? Deep breath—friend, this episode is proof you really can keep going, even in the crazy!Today I’m joined by my friend, marketing pro, and veteran homeschool mom Tracey Matney. Tracey’s not only teaching her 8-year-old son (since Pre-K!)—she’s also wrangling a busy toddler after a wild couple of years filled with moving, house fires, a not-quite-soon-enough home build, having a newborn in a borrowed back-house, and that earth-shaking moment when her baby needed open heart surgery at just four months old.If you’ve ever thought, “How am I supposed to homeschool through THIS?”—Tracey’s story will encourage you and give you a good reality check on what truly matters. (Spoiler: Perfectionism is out, “the main things” are in.)What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While Under PressureThe only subjects that really matter during a crisis season (and what to ditch)How to build resilience—even when chaos reigns at home (hint: Bible, breakfast, and deep breaths)The power of homeschool community and leaning on others when you simply can’t do it allPractical ways to pivot your plans, release perfection, and keep going—even when you want to quitHow Autopilot planning (and a clear homeschool vision) transforms your confidence and sanity—not just your lesson listsWhy letting your kids see you grow is its own kind of homeschool winLinks and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotBeast Academy math (for independent/gifted math)IEW Fix It GrammarStory of the World (history)Tracey’s InstagramFree Homeschool CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt40

Are you ready to break out of “school-at-home” thinking and finally build a homeschool rhythm that fits YOUR real life—not just the one in the curriculum guide?This week, I invited our two resident schedule-geeks—Laney Homan and Dawn Garrett—into the studio for a lively, practical (and very honest) roundtable on all things homeschool schedules.We’re tackling the myth that there’s only one “right” way to schedule your homeschool, sharing why nobody here gets up for a 7am school bus…and giving you permission to let go of what doesn’t work for your unique family.We walk through six of the most popular scheduling types (yep, there’s math, but not the scary kind), spill the biggest scheduling mistakes we’ve made, and show you what flexibility really looks like through every messy season.No pressure. Just lots of ideas, permission to pivot, and some hilarious overscheduling confessions from yours truly.If you secretly geek out over planners—or if you just wish someone would tell you WHY you can never stick to the schedule the public school uses—this is your episode.Grab your coffee, open your planner (or don’t), and join us for a real talk that just might make your next homeschool season your smoothest yet.What You’ll Learn:The most common homeschool schedule types and why families choose themHow to start with intention (not just “fall into” inconsistent routines)Why your schedule can (and should) change as your family grows and life shiftsHow to adapt for outside classes, big family needs, and real-life curveballsThe difference between loop and block scheduling (and which one to use if you always skip science!)How to use “magic number” scheduling for ultimate flexibility—and what to avoidPermission to experiment, change things up, or even go back to traditional if that’s what worksResources Mentioned in this Episode:Put Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotLoop Schedule VideoHomeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt39.

What happens when your homeschool plan goes on the road—literally? Today, I’m joined by second-generation homeschooler and seasoned moving pro, Adrienne Denison, to talk about schooling through cross-country moves, starting over in a new place, and making sure your curriculum doesn’t get lost between boxes of Legos and winter coats.Adrienne unpacks (pun absolutely intended) the lessons she’s learned navigating three major moves in just six months, transitioning her four kids through pivotal school years—and why she’s so passionate about not letting perfect get in the way of done. As a CC (Classical Conversations) family and longtime Autopilot user, Adrienne shares her best tactical tips for planning, packing, downsizing, and keeping your school system humming even when life’s upside down.If you’ve ever wondered how to homeschool when your schedule and address are both a moving target, this episode is full of honest encouragement, practical hacks, and permission to let some things go so you can say yes to connection, community, and new beginnings (even if it means doing math on the trampoline).What You'll Learn About Homeschooling While MovingHow Adrienne survived three “mini-moves” in one big cross-country adventureHer secret for never losing track of curriculum (even with boxes everywhere)What to toss, keep, or give away—and why purging was actually a blessingWhy Adrienne doesn’t mind letting academics take a back seat after a big moveHow using Homeschool on Autopilot helped her keep everyone on track (and sane)Tips for banking “school days” early and freeing up time for finding new friendsWhy supporting your family’s emotional needs is just as critical as checking boxes—and yes, you have permission to lamentAdrienne’s best hack for organizing books, prepping for high school, and making your next move smoother (even if it’s just down the street)Links and Resources From Today’s ShowPut Your Homeschool Year on AutopilotConsistency BootcampClassical ConversationsMagic Number SchoolingDark Clouds, Deep Mercy (book on lamenting)Homeschool Better Together CommunityFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt38

It’s curriculum season, and you know what that means: a flood of shiny programs, glowing reviews, and unboxing videos that make everything look like the answer to your homeschool stress. But here’s my honest take—it only counts if it actually works for your own real-life family, not just the influencer on YouTube.Today, I’m flying solo to give you my six best questions to ask yourself BEFORE you hit “add to cart” on that next curriculum (plus a bonus one at the end). This is all about helping you dodge curriculum regret, stop chasing endless FOMO, and make smart, confident choices—even when everything looks “perfect” out there.Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned vet with a closet full of half-used programs, you’ll find practical strategies, real talk, and permission to pivot without guilt. I’ll share my own wins (hello, DIY Shakespeare lessons) and fails (science experiments we never actually did) so you can learn from my messy middle.Links and Resources From Today’s ShowThe Lively Art of Writing (classic writing instruction)All About Reading / All About Spelling (for phonics and hand-holding)Language Arts Together plansMr. D MathTeens on TrackOur free homeschool community (join and ask your questions!)What You'll Learn About Choosing CurriculumAre you making your curriculum choice based on your season of life—or wishful thinking?How to ditch the comparison spiral and stop second-guessing yourselfThe ONE thing every curriculum that “works” has in common (spoiler: it isn’t expensive flashcards or pretty boxes)Concrete examples to help you decide if you need hand-holding—or can wing it like a proWhy you don’t NEED to die on every homeschool hill (goodbye, busywork battles!)Sneaky ways life seasons—from new babies to job changes—should guide your curriculum decisionsFor full show notes and a transcript of today’s episode, head to pambarnhill.com/hsbt37.