Everyday Educator

Classical Conversations supports homeschooling parents by cultivating the love of learning through a Christian worldview in fellowship with other families. We believe there are three keys to a great education: classical, Christian, and Community.

Before You Begin Foundations: Practical Prep 08/19/2025

Before You Begin Foundations: Practical Prep Does the thought of preparing for a new homeschool year feel overwhelming? You're not alone! Join host Lisa Bailey with seasoned homeschool veterans Amy Jones (22 years of experience!) and Courtney Bradshaw (Academic Advisor and mom to seven) as they share battle-tested strategies for launching your Foundations year with confidence. From setting realistic family learning goals to creating peaceful learning spaces, managing supplies for multiple children, and transitioning kids from summer mode back to academics—these moms reveal the secrets that can make or break your homeschool year. Whether you're a first-time Foundations family or returning with a new mix of ages, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom you can implement right now. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by Judson College and Classical Conversations Plus Undergraduate Program Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. Classical Conversations Plus Undergraduate Program Your Purpose Made Approachable… Whether that is a degree, a discipline, or a deeper understanding of interests, CC Plus Undergrad can help. Our unique relationship with Southeastern University provides multiple opportunities and options for enrolling as a degree-seeking student at Southeastern University, which allows for a continued pursuit of lifelong learning, making passion and purpose approachable whether you are a CC graduate or CC parent. To learn more about the CC Plus Undergrad Program or to begin your journey of pursuing your next season of learning, go to /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/37881155

Before You Begin Essentials: Bridge Building 08/12/2025

Before You Begin Essentials: Bridge Building Are you staring at that Essentials schedule feeling somewhere between curious and completely overwhelmed? You're definitely not alone! Whether you're a nervous first-timer wondering how your little one will survive a full day at community, or you're coming back for round two, this episode is your roadmap to Essentials success. Join host Kelli as she sits down with two CC veterans who've walked this path: Ginny, fresh from her first year juggling both tutoring AND parenting an Essentials student (spoiler: she survived!), and Lanelle, a 20-year CC veteran who now helps develop the very curriculum your kids will be learning. Together, they tackle the big questions every parent asks: What mindset shifts do I need to make? How do I prep without stressing? What does this actually look like at home? And most importantly—how do I hold it all with grace when the tears come (and they might)? Packed with practical tips, honest stories, and that "easy plus one" wisdom that will change your whole approach, this conversation will leave you feeling equipped, encouraged, and maybe even excited about the Essentials journey ahead. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by: Judson College and 2026 Classical Conversations Family Cruise At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. Have you heard? The Classical Conversations 2026 CC Family Cruise will set sail on May 16, 2026. This exciting adventure is open to all CC families and alumni. It will include the National Memory Master Competition, National Commencement, and special CC family activities. Interest is booming with over 800 people interested in cruising with us and cabins are selling out fast! Book your cabin now at Remember, to participate in the CC activities you need to book through the CC group. Grab your sunscreen, your beach bag. and join us on board! /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/37776840

Before You Begin Challenge: Academic Readiness 08/05/2025

From Busy to Blessed: Learning to Unbusy Your Homeschool 07/29/2025

The Heart of Homeschooling: Relationships Over Academics 07/22/2025

The Heart of Homeschooling: Relationships Over Academics Are you accidentally teaching your children that performance matters more than their hearts? In this eye-opening episode, host Lisa Bailey sits down with homeschool veteran Alicia Clark to explore a counter-cultural truth: the families who put relationships before academics often end up excelling at both. With 11 years of Classical Conversations experience and three children ranging from 9 to 15, Alicia reveals why heart-first homeschooling creates stronger students AND stronger families. You'll discover: - - Why the "little years" might actually be the hardest to homeschool (and it's not what you think) - - The surprising truth about what creates teachable children - - How to recognize when heart issues are masquerading as academic struggles - - Why math often becomes the great "heart revealer" in homeschool families - - The "cat years" phenomenon and how to stay connected with middle schoolers - - Simple rhythms that build relationship while maintaining academic progress The bottom line: Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. When we shepherd our children's hearts first, we create an atmosphere where learning flourishes naturally—and we raise adults who know how to love their world well. Whether you're drowning in curriculum choices or wondering if you're "academic enough," this conversation will remind you that the most important lessons happen in the heart, not the textbook. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by: At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/37509260

How Do You Know When You're Ready to Homeschool? 07/15/2025

Homeschooling with Down Syndrome and Tourette's: Real Mom Advice 07/08/2025

Math Beyond the Textbook: Creative Summer Learning Ideas 07/01/2025

Math Beyond the Textbook: Creative Summer Learning Ideas What if the secret to making math enjoyable for your kids was already sitting in your game closet? Join Delise Germond and Babs Harrell, two self-proclaimed "non-math moms" who discovered their love for numbers later in life, as they share creative ways to weave mathematical thinking into your family's summer activities. From turning Uno into algebra practice to finding God's patterns in stop signs, this episode will completely transform how you view math education. Whether your child is 3 or 13, you'll walk away with practical ideas that prove math isn't just about worksheets—it's about discovering the beautiful order God placed throughout His creation. Plus, hear Babs's inspiring story of how prayer and perseverance helped her succeed in a master's level math course, proving it's never too late to embrace the challenge of learning something new. This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by the Classical Learning Cohort and Judson College The Classical Learning Cohort offers online classes for parents to become more confident and competent Classical teachers. Through small-group lessons with trained Mentors, participants practice implementing classical skills, giving and receiving assessments, while experiencing transformative growth as a classical Christian educator. Want to learn more? Attend a free, online, Experience the CLC event at . At Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, we equip passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace. Experience vibrant community through our unique House System while receiving comprehensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts to make your divine calling affordable. Ready to answer your calling? Apply to Judson College today and step into God's plan for your life. /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/37244045

Creating Summer Scientists: Easy Activities for Curious Kids 06/24/2025

Cultivating Curious Readers: A Family Approach to Summer Learning 06/17/2025

Cultivating Curious Readers: A Family Approach to Summer Learning What if summer reading could be the highlight of your child's day instead of a dreaded chore? Forget everything you think you know about summer reading! Lisa, Delise, and Kelly Wilt reveal the secret that transforms reluctant readers into eager learners: making reading active. Whether you have a natural bookworm or a kid who'd rather be anywhere but sitting still, discover practical strategies for every type of learner. From blanket fort reading nooks to Mad Hatter tea parties, these aren't just reading activities—they're memory-making adventures that keep young minds sharp all summer long. Learn how to turn any book into a hands-on experience, why your kitchen might be the best reading classroom, and how to help active kids see reading as their next great adventure. Plus get book recommendations that hook even resistant readers and discover resources that give you instant activity ideas. Say goodbye to summer slide and hello to a season where learning feels like play! Resources: Book Series Mentioned Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder Anne of Green Gables series by L.M. Montgomery Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis Redwall series by Brian Jacques (especially recommended for boys) Amelia Bedelia series by Peggy Parish Sandra Boynton books (including "Snuggle Puppy") Specific Books Referenced Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell Bread and Jam for Francis by Russell Hoban Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis Agatha Christie mysteries This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by The Math Map: Digits, Integers, and Fractions The Math Map series by Classical Conversations offers a unique, Christ-centered approach to mathematics that emphasizes the language of math in a natural learning environment. The curriculum follows a "one family schoolhouse" approach with consistent 32-page booklets that focus on building foundational mathematical skills in a classical, structured environment. Discover how your family can celebrate God's design of mathematical order. Visit today to transform your family's math experience! /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/37045405

Stop Blaming the Textbook: Lessons from a Photography Class with Leigh Bortins 06/10/2025

Stop Blaming the Textbook: Lessons from a Photography Class with Leigh Bortins What do charging elephants and frustrated homeschool parents have in common? More than you might think. In this engaging episode of Everyday Educator, Classical Conversations founder Leigh Bortins shares her recent adventure taking a photography course in Botswana with her husband. What started as a vacation quickly became a masterclass in learning dynamics when Leigh realized she naturally learns classically—even when her instructor doesn't teach that way. Through five days of "butting heads" with her teacher while capturing stunning wildlife photos, Leigh discovered profound insights about perseverance, community learning, and why the perfect classroom setup still leads to conflict. This episode offers encouragement for homeschool parents who struggle with difficult learning days, showing that even adult learners face challenges and that giving up is often the default human response. Leigh also introduces the new MathMap Monomials program for Challenge B students. Key Discussion Points: • Why even "perfect" learning conditions still involve struggle and conflict • How community support prevents students from giving up • Why it's the student's responsibility to learn, not the teacher's to educate • The importance of tailoring instruction to different learning styles • How cross-training and "breaking things" are essential parts of learning • Why parents often become the biggest obstacles to their children's learning This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by The Math Map: Monomials The Math Map Monomials helps families practice introductory algebraic computation together using classical skills that prepare students for the mathematical conversation of the ages. Visit https://classicalconversations.com/the-math-map/ today to transform your family's math experience! /episode/index/show/classicalconversations/id/36940335