316: Create a Rich Homeschool Through Connection, Consistency, and Carole Joy Seid’s Method

More from Homeschool Made Simple All episodes →

1. 

   S6 · E321 · 17 Jun 2026 · 36 min

   321: Cultivating Beauty and Creativity in Everyday Life Part 2

   In the second part of our conversation with Lovely Bits Magazine writer and homeschool mom, Nicole Brignolle, we discuss the value of curiosity, connecting with local history, and seeing beauty in everyday life—not just chasing big, expensive adventures. We discuss the importance of rereading trusted classics, resisting performance-driven schooling, and nurturing each child’s uniqueness. Plus, we unpacked how centering God and beauty can inspire new projects, such as the Lovely Bits magazine, that blends faith and aesthetic excellence to uplift readers. Join us and enjoy! RESOURCES + Dumbing…

2. 

   S6 · E320 · 10 Jun 2026 · 20 min

   320: Expats Homeschooling In Italy Part 1

   In this episode, we talk with Nicole Brignolle, a former New Yorker now homeschooling in rural Tuscany. Her family's unexpected relocation led to a refreshing shift away from over-scheduled days and performance-based learning. They found freedom in using our literature-based approach by prioritizing margin, creativity, and following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This episode is filled with helpful mindset shifts around your homeschool and your priorities. Plus, you’ll hear plenty of encouragement from your family without having to move to a foreign country! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite…

3. 

   S6 · E319 · 3 Jun 2026 · 16 min

   319: Raising Healthy Kids at Home: Nutrition, Sleep, and Faith with Dr. Bill Sears, Part 3

   In the last of our series with Dr. Sears, he shares lots of practical ways to work wellness into your family life for raising healthy, resilient teenagers through intentional nutrition, sleep, and screen habits. Dr. William Sears shares insights into the science of sleep for brain health and the revolutionary concept of Neuro-Theology—how faith and neuroscience work together for each person's well-being. Join us! RESOURCES + The Smart Health Plan: Five Steps to Lasting Health and Happiness for All Ages , By Dr Williams Sears + The Anti-Alzheimer’s Prescription:The Science-Proven Plan to…

4. 

   S6 · E318 · 27 May 2026 · 30 min

   318: Finding Joy in Homeschooling a Child with Special Needs

   We welcome back Chelsea Jacobs from Yellow House Story Shop to discuss the realities and rewards of homeschooling a child with special needs. Chelsea honestly shares her family’s journey, including the adoption of her son Gabe from Rwanda, his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the everyday joys and challenges of homeschooling alongside complex medical needs and other neurotypical children. With 14 years of homeschooling under Chelsea’s belt, we hope this episode is a great encouragement to all who are walking the same path! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1…

5. 

   S6 · E317 · 20 May 2026 · 23 min

   317: Trusting the Family Educational Process For the Long-Haul in Homeschooling

   Part 2 of 2: Some families feel like they need to supplement with more academic work as they also use the Homeschool Made Simple’s method. But Carole’s conversation with Chris and Anna Clont can encourage you to settle in and watch the fruit appear using this simple method. Begin with the end in mind! The Clonts share how attending Carole’s seminars not only recalibrates and inspires them each year but also provides a valuable community of like-minded families. Both of the Clonts now recognize the importance of following this clear, consistent educational plan rather than “hybridizing”…

6. 

   S6 · E315 · 6 May 2026 · 24 min

   315: Trusting God and Homeschooling Through Unexpected Difficulties

   How do you continue homeschooling when life gets hard? Rachel Winchester sits down with Becca Goodpaster to share her family’s journey through unemployment and transition. They prioritized family, leaned on the Lord, and were willing to share their struggles with their community, who helped tremendously. If you’re experiencing a crisis or change, this episode offers hope and practical wisdom for resiliency and perseverance! RESOURCES + Buy some of our favorite books here! 10 Of Those + $1 shipping! +Build Your Family’s Library: Grab our FREE book list here +Get our FREE ebook: 5 Essential…

7. 

   S6 · E314 · 29 Apr 2026 · 33 min

   314: Great Books to Relearn American History as a Parent

   Are you a homeschool parent feeling unsure about teaching history because you don’t know as much about it as you would like? In this episode, Rachel Winchester shares how she began re-learning American history on her own by reading great books. She discusses the importance of approaching history through engaging stories and biographies, and that learning history can be enjoyable and deeply enriching. She reviews a variety of books she’s read on American history—from foundational texts like "Land of Hope" and biographies of key figures, to novels and family read-alouds that bring historical…

8. 

   S6 · E313 · 22 Apr 2026 · 30 min

   313: Thriving Teen Boys: Homeschooling with Strong Parent-Child Relationships

   Rachel Winchester and David Arroyo, a seasoned homeschool dad and board member, discuss the benefits of homeschooling teen boys, providing an environment free from distractions such as technology and negative peer influence. David shares his family's experiences, including how homeschooling helped his sons develop a genuine love of reading and how it strengthened their family relationships. David also shares the idea of educating "poet warriors"—children who are both disciplined and creative. A great episode for parents who want to be intentional guides in their children’s lives and to…

9. 

   S6 · E312 · 15 Apr 2026 · 34 min

   312: Transitioning Your Teenaged Girls From Childhood to Adulthood

   Are you homeschooling a teen girl? Rachel Winchester sits down with Chelsea Jacobs, a homeschool mom of three girls, to discuss how to navigate the teen years with flexibility. They explore how they balance academics, work, and service to help their teen girls thrive in whatever they do. Chelsea shares how she supports their emotional needs, encourages their unique passions, and maintains meaningful family traditions—even as schedules get busier. This episode will inspire you to continue looking to the Lord for wisdom as you navigate these potentially choppy waters! RESOURCES + Buy some of…

10. 

    S6 · E311 · 8 Apr 2026 · 23 min

    311: Older Children and the Power of the Family with Dr. Sears, Part 2

    Carole Joy Seid continues to talk with her longtime friend and renowned pediatrician Dr William Sears, in part 2 of our three-part series. They discuss the evolving nature of attachment as children grow, the importance of family culture, healthy discipline, and the unique role grandparents can play in supporting both parents and grandchildren. Other topics they discuss: + investing time in the early years for spiritual development + managing screen time + practical strategies for fostering healthier habits + the benefits of outdoor play and movement for a child’s physical and mental health +…