Homeschool days aren’t always picture-perfect, and sometimes the toughest moments are the ones that teach us the most valuable lessons. In this episode of Journey Together, we sit down with members of our Mental Health Team to discuss the “big emotions” that can arise during learning, including frustration, overwhelm, perfectionism, shutdowns, and everything in between.

Together, we explore why emotional regulation is such an important part of a child’s development, how parents can respond with connection instead of guilt, and simple strategies you can use to support your child when feelings bubble up during the homeschool day.

Whether you’ve had a math meltdown, a writing refusal, or a day where everyone needed a do-over, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone and that emotional growth is learning.

Take a deep breath, grab a cup of something warm, and let’s walk this path together.

In this episode of Journey Together, we explore how bringing game-based elements into homeschool lessons can transform motivation, focus, and joy. Shannon sits down with experienced teachers to unpack why games work so well for learning, how to use simple strategies like points and challenges, and what to do when gamification doesn’t quite go as planned.

Whether you love digital tools or want to stay screen-free, you’ll walk away with practical ideas you can use tomorrow — plus fun examples, creative tips, and a few reassuring reminders that learning doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful.

If your homeschool could use a spark of playfulness, this episode is your invitation to make learning feel like an adventure.

Join us as we embark on a global adventure without leaving the comfort of home! In this episode, we explore how to bring the world to your living room through virtual field trips, cultural lessons, creative activities, and books that open windows to diverse cultures. Whether you’re trying international snacks, tuning into global music, or diving into stories from around the world, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartwarming ideas to make learning about different cultures a joyful part of your homeschool day. Grab your cozy blanket and passport — the world awaits!

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Virtual Tour: https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/virtual-tour
• The Louvre Virtual Tours: https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne
• Explore.org Live Animal Cams: https://explore.org/livecams
• NASA Virtual Tours: https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-at-home-virtual-tours-and-apps/
• Google Arts & Culture: https://artsandculture.google.com/
• Anthony-Thomas Candy Company Virtual Tour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDi8t-Yn-tM

• Books mentioned:
  • Festival of Colors by Kabir Sehgal & Surishtha Sehgal
  • A Cool Drink of Water by Barbara Kerley
  • One World, One Day by Barbara Kerley
  • Yoko by Rosemary Wells
  • All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
  • Rickshaw Girl by Mitali Perkins
  • Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhhà Lại
  • A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park
  • Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan
  • Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

In this episode of Journey Together, we’re joined by the always-inspiring Julie Bogart, founder of Brave Writer and beloved voice in the homeschool community. Julie talks with us about her newest book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing, and unpacks why so many kids struggle with writing — and what parents can do to make it easier, more natural, and even fun.

Field trips aren’t just an extra—they’re one of the most powerful ways to connect learning to real life. In this episode of Bear Essentials, we’ll explore how homeschool families can use field trips to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and create unforgettable memories.

You’ll learn:

– Creative and simple field trip ideas for all ages

– Easy ways to make your outings more meaningful

– Tips for planning stress-free adventures

– How to join school-organized field trips through Blue Ridge (find them on the Parent Info Center!)

Whether you’re exploring your own backyard or heading out on a big adventure, this episode will help you bring the world to life—one field trip at a time.

In this episode of Journey Together, we’re walking you through how to feel calm, confident, and prepared for your upcoming Learning Period teacher meeting. Whether it’s your first check-in or you’re a seasoned homeschooler, we’ll share practical tips for organizing your documentation, highlighting student progress, and making the most of your conversation with your teacher. Let’s turn these meetings into meaningful moments of reflection, celebration, and partnership—because we’re not just checking boxes, we’re growing together.

In this episode, we explore practical and flexible ways to plan your homeschool year — from choosing the right planning tools and styles to involving your kids in the process. We also talk about how to build in simple weekly and monthly reflections to keep your plans grounded and adaptable. Whether you prefer traditional planners, digital tools, or something more hands-on, this episode offers encouragement and strategies to help you create a learning journey that fits your family’s unique rhythm.

Ready to start your homeschool year with energy, clarity, and excitement? In this episode, we dive into practical tips for setting your family’s vision, easing into your first day and week, and embracing the flexibility that makes homeschooling special. From involving your kids in goal-setting to making room for curiosity and play, discover how to build a year-long adventure that feels inspiring — not overwhelming. Whether you’re new or seasoned, this episode will help you launch your year with confidence and joy.