Libsyn Directory

Mastery vs Spiral Based Math Curriculum

Release Date: 07/07/2025

Helping Kids Navigate Big Emotions: Therapist Kim Restivo Lange

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

If your child struggles with big emotions, negative thoughts, or self-doubt, this episode is for you. Therapist Kim Restivo Lange shares practical strategies to help kids manage their emotions, along with actionable ideas to help you support your child’s emotional growth. In this conversation, we discuss: How to help kids express emotions in a healthy way Why negative thinking happens and how to address it Simple strategies to guide kids through emotional struggles The importance of externalizing emotions to reduce shame Plus, Kim has created a helpful resource just for you! – a guide...

Are Schools Dumbing Us Down? The Hidden Lessons They Teach

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Are schools helping children succeed—or subtly shaping them to conform? In this episode of the HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast, we unpack Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto. Discover the seven hidden lessons that schools teach—lessons that condition children to obey, comply, and depend on authority. Whether you're homeschooling or simply questioning the traditional system, this episode will help you think differently about education—and empower you to reclaim your child’s learning journey. 🎧 Listen now to explore what’s really being taught in school—and how to break...

Things to Like About Yourself: A Mindset Reset

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Do you ever catch yourself stuck in negative self-talk or doubting your worth? You're not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing how to reset your mindset by focusing on the things you genuinely like about yourself. I’ll walk you through a simple 30-day challenge that can help you replace negativity with self-appreciation—and set a powerful example for your kids. Join me for practical tips, encouragement, and a reminder that your value starts with how you see yourself. Let’s shift that mindset together! © 2018–2025 HomeSchool ThinkTank, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Strewing Explained: Boost Learning Without Formal Lessons

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Are you looking for a simple, effective way to spark your child's curiosity and make learning come alive in your homeschool? In this episode, I dive into the world of strewing - a powerful, yet often overlooked, tool that can transform your homeschooling experience. Learn what strewing is and how to use it to create a rich, engaging learning environment that inspires your child to explore, discover, and grow. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a seasoned pro, this episode will give you practical tips and fresh ideas to make learning feel natural and fun. Don’t miss this episode - find...

Still Unsure About Homeschooling? Here’s How to Decide

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

You’ve been going back and forth… wondering if homeschooling is really the right choice. What if you make the wrong decision? In this episode, I’ll guide you through a powerful framework to help you stop spinning in indecision—and finally make a choice you can feel good about. You’ll discover: ✅ Why staying stuck in “maybe” isn’t helpful ✅ How to uncover hidden options you might not have considered ✅ The mindset shift that changes everything about decision-making ✅ Step-by-step strategies to help you move forward with confidence Whether...

Unit Studies Explained: A Flexible Homeschool Approach

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Ever wish homeschooling could feel more connected, meaningful, and fun—for both you and your kids? In this episode, I’m sharing how the unit study method can do exactly that. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or simply looking for fresh ideas to keep your kids engaged during seasonal breaks and holidays, unit studies offer flexibility, creativity, and depth. You’ll learn how to: ✔️ Choose a topic that works for your whole family ✔️ Integrate subjects like math, science, history, and art ✔️ Decide how long to make your unit study—and how to tell when it’s time to move...

Fun Handwriting Practice for Kids: Ideas for Toddlers to Teens

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Looking for fun ways to help your child improve their handwriting? In this episode, you’ll discover creative handwriting practice ideas that feel more like play than schoolwork. Whether your child is just learning to hold a pencil or working on refining their cursive, you’ll find practical tips and engaging tools to support handwriting at every stage—from toddlers to teens. Want more? Visit the article that goes with this episode for curriculum suggestions, handwriting paper tips, product links, and an interview with an occupational therapist: © 2018–2025 HomeSchool...

Traditional Homeschooling Unpacked: Why Many Families Choose Alternative Methods

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Are you curious about what "traditional homeschooling" or "school-at-home" really means? In this episode, we’re unpacking the traditional homeschooling model, why so many families begin with it, and the challenges that often inspire parents to explore alternative approaches. Whether you’re new to homeschooling or looking to refine your methods, this episode will help you understand the "school-at-home" model and introduce you to other homeschooling options. Join us for practical insights, helpful resources, and encouragement to create a homeschool experience that works for your family!...

How to Teach Reading with Reading Recovery Teacher Margaret Craig

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Have you ever wondered if you're doing enough to help your child learn to read? In this conversation, I sit down with Margaret Craig, an award-winning Reading Recovery teacher and author of The Young Reader. With decades of experience teaching literacy in public and private schools, Margaret shares simple, effective strategies that parents can use to help their children become confident readers. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to teach reading at home—even if you’re not a teacher The best reading strategies for early learners and struggling readers How to avoid common mistakes...

Discover Our Curated Collection of Engaging History Podcasts

HomeSchool ThinkTank Parenting Podcast

Do you and your kids want to dive deeper into the stories and lessons of history? Our curated collection of engaging history podcasts makes learning fun and easy for the whole family! With access to over 2,000 hours and 1,000 episodes covering a wide range of historical topics, there's something for everyone. Plus, our advanced podcast search tool allows you to quickly find information about any historical event or person you’re curious about. Whether you're a homeschooling family or simply looking for an easy way to explore history through engaging podcasts, this episode will show you how...

More Episodes

Is your child struggling with math?

Did you know that most curriculum approaches math in one of two ways?

Listen to this short episode, and we'll share examples of mastery-based homeschool math curriculum and spiral-based homeschooling programs.

You can find math curriculum, videos, and more information in the article corresponding to this podcast episode.

https://homeschoolthinktank.com/mastery-vs-spiral-math-curriculum/

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