The Homeschool Well Podcast | How to Homeschool, Christian Homeschooling, Homeschool Ideas

Happy (Belated) Mother’s Day! Encouragement for homeschool moms — prioritizing relationship w/ your kids | 114

Hey Homeschool mom!
Welcome to The Homeschool Well Podcast! In this heartfelt episode, we share a special (and slightly belated) Mother’s Day message filled with encouragement, honesty, and hope — just for the homeschool mom (and especially moms with strong-willed kids!).
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by your homeschool journey or just needing a little reminder that you're not alone, this episode is packed with wisdom. Jenny reflects on how parenting and homeschooling her oldest son — who just turned 20 — shaped her family’s homeschool experience.
In this episode, you'll hear about what it means to truly prioritize the relationship with your child, how to shift from control to connection, and how the long game of motherhood is always worth it.
 
💡 Resources Mentioned:
Cynthia Tobias – Author and speaker on strong-willed children
Celebrate Calm with Kirk Martin – Parenting and homeschool podcast
Our weekly Homeschool Support Group
One-on-one Homeschool Coaching Sessions:15% off for podcast listeners – Use code PODCAST15 at checkout!
🎁 Looking for Homeschool Help?We’re here for you! Whether you're just starting or need guidance with a tough season, our online Christian homeschool support group offers weekly meetups, practical encouragement, and a strong community of moms who get it.
Visit thehomeschoolwell.com for:
Ongoing homeschool support
Trusted homeschool resources, including testing and evaluations
Encouraging tools for homeschool moms
Private coaching and more
🌷 Honoring Mothers Every DayEven if this episode comes to you a little late, we believe moms deserve to be celebrated every day. Your work matters and we’re cheering you on! Keep going, homeschool mom — you’ve got this.
Blessings!
Kim and Jenny❤️❤️

How to create a homeschool portfolio (Florida evaluation tips, too!) - Rerelease | 113

Hi homeschool mom!
Today we’re rereleasing one of our most popular episodes from April 2024: how to create a homeschool portfolio, especially if you're wrapping up the year and preparing for your homeschool evaluation in Florida.
We’ll walk you through step-by-step how to compile a homeschool portfolio that not only meets Florida’s legal requirements, but also showcases your child’s growth and achievements. Whether you're brand new or just need a refresh, this episode is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and real-life ideas to make the end of your year smoother.  
🧾 Topics we cover:
What to include in your Florida homeschool portfolio
How to organize work samples, planners, and records
Digital vs. physical portfolio methods
The #1 mistake most families make (and how to avoid it)
How to show student progress for your homeschool evaluation
Tips for celebrating your school year with a meaningful portfolio review
💡 Plus, we share expert tips we’ve learned as both former teachers and homeschool evaluators. And don’t miss our encouragement from Colossians 1:11-12—we’re praying for your endurance and joy as you finish strong!
✨ Helpful Links & Resources:
✅ Get the FREE Homeschool Portfolio Checklist for Florid and watch our Homeschool Portfolio Sample Video
🎥 Want more? This episode comes from our recorded workshop, available inside our online community. Join us at thehomeschoolwell.com/community to access all on-demand workshops for Christian homeschool moms.
Be empowered,
Kim and Jenny❤️❤️

Do homeschoolers need tests? How (and why) to assess without the stress! | 112

Hey, homeschool mom!
In this episode of The Homeschool Well Podcast, we’re diving into a topic that often sparks big feelings—HOMESCHOOL TESTING.
If you're thinking “I left public school to avoid all this!”—you're not alone! But today, we share why homeschool assessments don't have to be stressful (or even done every year), and how they can actually serve your homeschool journey.
We’ll talk through:
Why testing for homeschoolers can help you work smarter, not harder
The difference between formal assessments and informal assessments
Examples of everyday tools you’re already using to gauge learning
Why homeschool standardized testing might be a great option (especially in states like Florida if you're using the PEP Scholarship)
A breakdown of some standardized tests like the KTEA-3, Iowa Test of Basic Skills, and Terra Nova
We also offer both standardized testing for homeschoolers and personalized reading assessments at The Homeschool Well. Not sure what kind of testing you need? We're currently offering a 15% off coaching session for podcast listeners. Use code PODCAST15 at checkout. 💻
💡 Whether you’re new to homeschool testing or just trying to figure out next steps, this episode is full of encouragement, practical tips, and a reminder that no test defines your child—or you.
📖 Plus, we end with a word of hope from God's word, to remind you of the bigger picture. ;)
📝 Resources mentioned:
KTEA-3 Testing (offered virtually)
Reading & phonics assessments -- schedule a call for more info
Portfolio evaluations 
Coaching & consultation - use code PODCAST15
🎧 Tune in, breathe deep, and be encouraged!
Kim and Jenny❤️❤️
 

Homeschool transcript tips: How to write creative course titles with confidence | 111

Hey there, homeschool mama!Welcome to Episode 2 of our transcript series, all about building a strong, flexible, and empowering homeschool transcript for your high schooler! 🎓
This week, we’re zooming in on one of the most important (and often intimidating) parts of the process: course titles. Whether you’re pulling from traditional academics or crafting classes from your student’s unique experiences, this episode will help you write those course names with confidence and clarity.
In less than 20 minutes, you'll learn:
- Why knowing your state’s graduation requirements matters- How to align classes with your teen’s future dreams — even if those dreams are still forming- The difference between standard and custom course names- How to name and document out-of-the-box learning experiences- Where to find trusted homeschool transcript templates- How to use tools for creative ideas- And why it’s never too early to start your own homeschool transcript, even if your kids are little!
By the end of this podcast you will have the right tools (as well as plenty of encouragement) to create a beautiful, meaningful homeschool transcript that truly reflects your child’s learning journey.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
📚More Than Credits by Cheryl Bastian:
https://www.cherylbastian.com/resources/f5cnoa7h3nts5vyk8eeqex359nqenw
📝 Our blog with free editable homeschool transcript templates and a real homeschool transcript example: https://www.thehomeschoolwell.com/blog?tag=high+school+transcripts
🌴 Florida’s CPALMS directory of course titles and descriptions: https://www.cpalms.org/public/search/Course
 
Next time we’re diving into: How to assign high school credit to those course titles—so don’t miss it!
Until then, keep showing up, Mama. You are building something eternal.With love and prayers,Kim & Jenny❤️❤️
 
🎉 Big news!We just hit 20,000 podcast downloads — and we couldn’t have done it without you! If this episode has encouraged or equipped you, would you:
⭐️ Leave us a 5-star rating & short review📤 Share this episode with a fellow homeschool parent🙏 Or send up a prayer as we continue this journey of serving families like yours
 
 

High school homeschool transcripts made easy (really!) | 110

Hey homeschool mom!
Welcome to The Homeschool Well Podcast, where we tackle all things homeschooling with peace and purpose. This episode kicks off a brand-new series all about the homeschool transcript.
If the idea of creating a homeschool transcript feels overwhelming or confusing, you are not alone. Many of us have felt intimidated by this one piece of paper. But here's the good news: it's not as complicated as it seems. In fact, it’s just a clean, simple summary of your teen’s high school years—and we're here to walk you through it step by step.
In this episode, we’re breaking it down easy-breezy. Whether you have a kindergartener or a high schooler, it’s never too early (or too late!) to understand how to document your child’s educational journey with confidence.
You’ll learn:
What actually goes on a homeschool transcript
The basic sections: student info, school info, course titles, grades, credits, and GPA
Why you are qualified to create one (you’re the administrator!)
Where to find editable and printable homeschool transcript templates
Tips for making your transcript look clean, clear, and professional
📚 Want to see what we're talking about? 👉 Check out the free homeschool transcript template I reference in this episode on our blog:How to Make a Homeschool Transcript for High School(Note: The blog was posted in October 2023, but trust us—it’s still golden.)
✏️ Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—this episode is part of a bite-sized series. Next up, we’ll chat about how to choose classes for high school that will eventually go on that transcript.
💬 Need help right now? Our online homeschool community offers weekly office hours and one-on-one support. You don’t have to figure this out alone.
Thanks for hanging out with us today! If this encouraged you, go ahead and share it with a friend who needs a little transcript peace too.
Stay calm and homeschool on,Kim and Jenny❤️❤️
 

Our biggest homeschool regrets & what we’d do differently | 109

Hey there homeschool mom,
Are you a momma looking for advice from those who’ve been there? In this episode of The Homeschool Well, we share the top two things we wish we had done differently in our homeschool journeys.
Whether you're a new homeschooler or a seasoned parent, this conversation is packed with practical homeschool advice, Christian parenting insights, and encouragement to help you avoid common pitfalls.
Here’s what we’re covering:
Making the most of the spiritual window in homeschooling (teaching your kids is more than just homeschool curriculum!)
Involving others in your homeschool plan – don't homeschool alone!
We know you'll be encouraged, :)
Blessings,
Kim and Jenny❤️❤️
 
💡 Plus, don’t miss our FREE Homeschool Starter Checklist to help you organize and plan your homeschool year! Download it here → thehomeschoolwell.com/checklist
👉 Hit “Follow” to get weekly homeschool encouragement, faith-based parenting tips, and practical strategies for a thriving homeschool!

Homeschooling Fails: Pride, anger, and God’s grace in messy moments | 108

Hi homeschool mom!
Ever feel like you’re scared of failing at homeschooling? You’re not alone — and today, Kim shares some real talk about her biggest homeschooling fails, including the emotions of pride and anger that nearly derailed her journey.
From pretending she could teach upper-level math (spoiler: it didn’t go well) to letting poor time management and the “mean mommy voice” creep in, Kim opens up about what homeschool failure looked like in her home — and how God brought grace, healing, and even laughter through it all.
If you’re thinking about homeschooling but battling fear of failure, this episode will remind you: your mistakes don’t define you. There's always room for growth, prayer, and joy.
You’ll Hear:
-A hard truth about trying to do it all (especially math 😅)
-How denial and pride caused stress—and what finally helped
-A powerful fact about homeschooling no one tells you
-What to do when anger takes over your homeschool days
-The importance of battle prayer and vulnerable community
🎯 Ready for clarity? Book your FREE 15-min Discovery Call with Kim + Jenny:thehomeschoolwell.com
👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Want prayer or support? Join our weekly live community or email Kim at kim@thehomeschoolwell.com — we’re here for you, whether you’re in our group or not.
💬 Love the show? Leave a review + share with a friend who’s thinking about homeschooling and needs some real, grace-filled encouragement.
Email us your prayer requests:
support@thehomeschoolwell.com
 
You've got this, and we’re here to help!
Blessings,Kim and Jenny❤️

Homeschooling Fails: My 2 biggest mistakes + encouragement for scared moms | 107

Hey homeschool mom!
Feeling scared of failing at homeschooling? You’re not alone!
In this episode of The Homeschool Well, Jenny is getting real and vulnerable about homeschooling fails — because let’s face it, no one gets it perfect, and fear of failure shouldn’t hold you back.
If you’re thinking about homeschooling but are scared of failing or worried about being a homeschool failure, this episode is for YOU. Jenny shares her top two biggest homeschooling fails from her homeschool journey, and how you can avoid making the same mistakes.
Plus, she drops a fact about homeschooling most people forget: There’s no perfect education, and every child — homeschooling or not — has gaps. You’re not alone, and you CAN do this.
What You’ll Hear:-Why trying to “do school at home” caused tension — and what worked better-The truth about gaps and how they sneak up on you-A powerful fact about homeschooling every mom needs to hear-Encouragement for moms who are scared of failing-A free resource to help you take the first step (even if you’re nervous!)
Free Resources:🎯 Homeschool Starter Checklist: thehomeschoolwell.com/checklist👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Weekly Live Mom Community: thehomeschoolwell.com/community
🎤Episode 105: Thinking of homeschooling? Do it scared (+ tips on getting started!)
💬 Leave us a review if this helped you — it means so much! And share with a friend who's thinking about homeschooling but feeling unsure.
You've got this, and we’re here to help.
Blessings,
Kim and Jenny❤️
 

Why you should homeschool your kids: 5 ways it makes them SMART | 106

Hi homeschool mom!
"Should I homeschool my kids?"
We hear this question all the time, and today we are going to answer it! YES!
Whether you're just considering homeschooling, already on the journey, or feeling a little unsure, this episode is for you. Today, we share five powerful ways homeschooling makes kids smarter—not just academically, but in life.
We have had the unique perspective of teaching in traditional school settings, private schools, and homeschooling our own kids. Now that our children have transitioned to college and vocational education, we’ve seen firsthand how homeschooling has shaped their intelligence, independence, and success.
In this episode, we cover:-how homeschooling fosters an intrinsic love of learning-why it builds internal motivation to complete tasks-how homeschooling improves independent work skills-why homeschoolers actually develop stronger social skills (yes, really!)-how homeschooling helps kids discover their unique learning styles
Tune in now and be encouraged!
Blessings,Kim and Jenny
==============================
Links from this episode:
📌Get our FREE downloadable resources, 7 Homeschooling Essentials Checklist, at the link below:
https://www.thehomeschoolwell.com/checklist
📌 Need help figuring out your next steps? Schedule a discovery call with us: thehomeschoolwell.com
==============================
💡 Ready to take the leap? Find a community of like-minded homeschoolers who will support and encourage you at thehomeschoolwell.com. You’ve got this! 
🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more homeschooling encouragement!

Thinking of homeschooling? Do it scared (plus tips on getting started!) | 105

Hey homeschool mom!
 
Are you thinking about homeschooling but feeling overwhelmed with fear and doubt? You’re definitely not alone!
In today’s episode of The Homeschool Well Podcast, we share our journey from skeptic to seasoned homeschool mom and encourage you to take the leap—scared and all. Whether you’re just thinking about homeschooling or actually taking the leap, this episode tackles common fears head-on with practical advice and encouragement.
In this episode you'll learn that fear is normal (and how to move forward anyway), the biggest fears new homeschool parents face—and how to overcome them,and how to start homeschooling, even if you have no idea where to begin. 
W know this will encourage you!
Blessings,
Kim and Jenny
==============================📌 Download our FREE 7 Steps to Getting Started with Homeschooling checklist: thehomeschoolwell.com/checklist📌 Need help figuring out your next steps? Schedule a discovery call with us: thehomeschoolwell.com
==============================
💡 Ready to take the leap? Find a community of like-minded homeschoolers who will support and encourage you at thehomeschoolwell.com. You’ve got this! 
🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more homeschooling encouragement!