Category: Family Life

Curriculum, Curriculum Resource, Digital Homeschool Planner, Family, Family Life, High School Homeschool Planning, Homeschool, Homeschool Planner, Lesson Planning

Homeschool Planet Planner Just Became My Homeschool High School Counselor (And I Couldn’t Be More Excited!)

Little Learner and Mom

I received Homeschool Planet Planner for my honest review!

As a homeschool mom for many years, I’ve learned one very important lesson: the more organized I am, the more confident I feel. That’s exactly why Homeschool Planet Planner has been one of the best investments I’ve made in our homeschool. I’ve been using Homeschool Planet for years, and every school year I’m reminded why it continues to be my favorite homeschool planning system. But now that my son is entering high school, I appreciate it on an entirely different level.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by transcripts, graduation requirements, dual enrollment schedules, outsourced classes, and long-term planning, I actually feel excited. Homeschool Planet has truly become my digital homeschool assistant, doing so much of the heavy lifting behind the scenes so I can focus on what matters most teaching my son.

What Is Homeschool Planet Planner?

Homeschool Planet is an all-in-one digital homeschool planner designed specifically for homeschool families. It combines lesson planning, scheduling, attendance, record keeping, assignment tracking, and homeschool organization into one easy-to-use platform. Whether you’re teaching one student or managing multiple children across different grade levels, the system adapts to your family’s unique homeschool style.

The setup is surprisingly simple, and with helpful tutorial videos and an incredible customer support team, you’re never left wondering what to do next. It truly feels like having an experienced homeschool assistant sitting beside you every step of the way.

Lesson Planning That Does the Heavy Lifting

One of my absolute favorite features has always been the lesson planning. Whether I’m using lesson plans from many of our favorite curriculum publishers that automatically populate into my planner or creating completely customized lesson plans for our unique homeschool, everything is organized in one place. Assignments are scheduled automatically, lessons can be moved with a simple drag and drop, and I never feel like I’m rebuilding our schedule every time life happens which, let’s be honest, is often in homeschooling!

For families who enjoy creating their own curriculum, Homeschool Planet makes that just as easy. I can build completely custom lesson plans, assignments, and schedules that fit exactly how we homeschool.

Stepping Into the Role of High School Counselor

As our homeschool has grown, so has Homeschool Planet Planner. This year, I truly feel like I’ve stepped into the role of my son’s high school counselor from the comfort of my own office. I can organize our four-year plan, keep track of credits, coordinate outsourced classes, schedule dual enrollment courses, organize electives, and manage our daily homeschool all from one dashboard. Instead of multiple notebooks, spreadsheets, sticky notes, and planners scattered everywhere, everything I need is right at my fingertips.

That peace of mind is priceless.

The NEW High School Blueprint Is a Total Game Changer


Can we talk about the brand-new 4-Year High School Blueprint? Game changer!!!

If planning high school has ever made you nervous, this new tool removes so much of the uncertainty. The 4-Year High School Blueprint allows homeschool parents to build a complete four-year high school plan while helping you understand your state’s graduation requirements. Instead of wondering whether you’ve missed an important credit requirement or if your student is on track for graduation, you can confidently map everything out from freshman year through senior year. The best part? It’s completely FREE to use no credit card required. Whether you’re just beginning high school planning or already have a high school student, this resource is an incredible place to start.

Perfect for Dual Enrollment & Outsourced Classes

Many homeschool families don’t do everything at home anymore. Between co-ops, online classes, tutors, community college dual enrollment, music lessons, sports, and enrichment activities, schedules can become overwhelming very quickly. Homeschool Planet keeps everything organized in one place so nothing falls through the cracks. Being able to balance our homeschool lessons alongside outsourced classes has honestly been a lifesaver.

Create Professional Homeschool Student IDs

One feature that often gets overlooked but shouldn’t is the built-in Homeschool ID Card creator which is also free for non members. As homeschoolers, we frequently need student IDs for educational discounts, museums, conventions, travel, homeschool events, and other educational opportunities.

Instead of trying to create one yourself, Homeschool Planet allows you to quickly create professional homeschool IDs for both parents and students, making it one less thing to worry about.

Your Complete Homeschool Command Center

Beyond lesson planning, Homeschool Planet has become the central hub for running our homeschool. Everything is organized in one convenient place, including:

  • Auto-populating lesson plans from many popular curriculum publishers
  • Drag-and-drop scheduling
  • Attendance tracking
  • Helpful setup videos
  • Outstanding customer support
  • Record keeping
  • To-do lists and so much more!!

Paper Planner or Digital Planner? You Don’t Have to Choose

Whether you love writing everything down on paper or you’ve completely embraced digital planning, Homeschool Planet fits beautifully into either style. That’s one of the reasons it continues to be one of the most trusted and respected planning systems in the homeschool community. It grows with your family from the early elementary years all the way through high school graduation.

My Final Thoughts

As someone balancing high school coursework, honors classes, outsourced learning, extracurricular activities, and future dual enrollment, I honestly can’t imagine planning this season without Homeschool Planet Planner. It has transformed what once felt overwhelming into something that feels manageable, organized, and even exciting. Instead of worrying about whether I’m missing something important, I can confidently focus on giving my son an incredible high school education while Homeschool Planet keeps everything organized behind the scenes.

If you’ve been thinking about trying Homeschool Planet Planner, this is your sign. Grab my affiliate link and start the 30-day free trial no credit card needed. Take advantage of the easy setup, explore the incredible features, attend a member meeting, enjoy the monthly freebies, and experience firsthand why so many homeschool families trust Homeschool Planet year after year. Homeschooling is a journey, and high school is one of its biggest milestones. Having the right planning system doesn’t just keep you organized it gives you the confidence to enjoy the journey. Trust me… you won’t regret it.

African Studies, African Studies High School, African Studies Middle School, Black History, Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Homeschool Planner, Homeschool Record Keeping, Mom Life

Anchored in Change: How October and Homeschool Planet Kept Us on Track

Little Learner and Mom

This post may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you!

October has been filled with surprises, independence, and accountability! This month brought several major transitions some that I hinted at last month but didn’t fully take effect until now.

We officially dropped our previous “honors” biology class, which turned out to be a standard biology course marketed as something seriously less than. We’ve since moved into a true honors-level program Savvas Miller & Levine 2019 Biology and it has been phenomenal. The rigor, labs, research opportunities, and interactive learning tools have taken science to the next level. My son is now engaging with real labs, quizzes, tests, research projects, and practicums and yes, no more skipping textbook chapters and sections like in his old “honors” biology online class!

We don’t enroll in classes just to “check boxes.” For us, quality always outweighs quantity, especially on a college-bound path. My son has made it very clear that university is his goal, so we’re aligning his homeschool accordingly.

Math Milestones

We wrapped up Denison Algebra 1 (huge win!) and have now transitioned into Denison Geometry. To keep Algebra skills sharp, we’re continuing to use Mr. D Math. My son has already decided he wants to start Algebra 2 next semester alongside Geometry, so I’m pacing us carefully to keep balance and mastery in check.

Literature and English

Earlier this year, I mentioned we were shifting directions in literature and what a phenomenal change that’s been! In October, my son officially joined Nia Natal Academy, and it’s been a perfect fit. He’s thriving academically and socially, connecting deeply with his peers and teachers.

In English, they’re diving into research essays and literary analysis while exploring powerful works like The Hate U Give. The classroom discussions are rich with connections to current events, civics, and Black history and the students aren’t holding back! The critical thinking and real-world context in this class have been inspiring to witness. The class he is in is high school level and he is doing really well and keeping up.

We are still using Michael Clay Thompson MCT Level 5 alongside Savvas 2025 MyProspective grade 8, both these are rigorous English curriculum that are above grade level.

His African Studies class has also been incredible. The teacher brings such depth and insight, challenging the students to think globally and act with purpose. Recently, the class began a world-building project where students created their own societies. My son campaigned for his role as Minister of Defense, which required a written platform, government assessment, and even a campaign video. This kind of project-based learning has had an amazing impact on him.

Leadership, Community, and Growth

Mid-October brought another exciting opportunity: an invitation to a public speaking workshop with Veritas a prestigious student society that meets weekly to study and refine leadership skills. He came out of that workshop absolutely energized and immediately decided to apply for membership. We’ve been gathering transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters since, and I’m so proud of how supportive his teachers and friends have been through this process.

Family Time

We have been spending more time together as family, going to the movies, field trips, game and movie nights. We are also cooking as a family two times a week. My husband has embarked on a new health journey and we have joined him. We all eating more healthy and enjoying new foods. Dad has stepped his game up and is attending homeschool co-ops with us and he also making time out of his busy schedule and spending at least one day a week being more hands on in our homeschool classroom.

Our Secret Weapon: Homeschool Planet in Action

If there’s one tool that has truly held us together through all these changes, it’s Homeschool Planet. Having this platform in our homeschool arsenal has been an absolute game changer. With its constant updates and improvements, it’s become one of the most reliable tools in our homeschool toolbox especially when life gets unpredictable.

The Homeschool Planet app has elevated the experience even more. From managing our schedule, lessons, important dates, and even forgotten Zoom log-ins while at co-op, it keeps us on track no matter where we are.

Last month, when I fell sick and ended up in the hospital, I realized just how powerful this system really is. Because I had planned ahead and uploaded everything into Homeschool Planet, my son was able to follow along independently. He tracked assignments, managed deadlines, and even helped me keep this very update on schedule. It was one of those “in the clutch” moments that reminded me why organization tools like this are worth their weight in gold. Homeschool Planet truly keeps our homeschool orbit steady even when life throws us a curveball.

From My Son’s Perspective

“Yup, I finished Denison Algebra 1! I set a goal to complete it before my 13th birthday and I did it! At the time I’m writing this, I’m still waiting on that birthday to roll around, but I’m really proud of myself.

I also got a Gabb Wireless Phone after my Gabb Watch retired after four years of loyal service. My parents were hesitant, but since Gabb is designed for safe communication, we agreed it was the right next step especially now that I’m doing more independent activities and drop-offs. I am using it smartly and its been nice to connect with friends in a different way. I am also not distracted by social media and internet. The one thing I really love is GABB MUSIC!!!!!! Its the best all my favorite artist no commercials and clean music and lots of genre to pick from.

I love my new biology textbook and new classes with a diverse group of peers. It feels great to be in spaces where I can be my full Afro-Latino self curious, open, and unguarded. The books we’re reading and the conversations we’re having really matter. Homeschool finally feels like homeschool again a place where I can grow, think, and be me.

One of my favorite tools this year is Homeschool Planet. I’m using it for everything assignments, chores, field trips, reminders you name it. The Homeschool Planet app on my phone is especially helpful when my mom’s not around to unlock my MacBook (thanks to those parental controls!). It helps me stay organized, check my schedule on the go, and even coordinate with friends. Total game changer for middle and high schoolers.

This month, I hung out with friends at the Fall Festival, found Veritas and applied, participated in Junior Achievement Finance Park, did some volunteering, and joined a new leadership group. October has been busy but the good kind of busy. I’m really looking forward to November. Oh, and I almost forgot my African Studies class is EXCELLENT!”

A Scary but Valuable Lesson

The end of October brought an unexpected challenge. My mom had to be hospitalized, which was really scary for me. Thankfully, she’s now home and doing much better, but it was a wake-up call for all of us.

Seeing my mom in the hospital was hard it made me realize how much she does every single day to keep things running in our home. When she came home, she couldn’t jump back into her full routine, and my dad and I had to step up. After the first day, I really saw where I had been slacking and how often she quietly picks up the pieces. I’m really sorry for that, and I’m going to do better.

She tried to bounce back quickly but eventually realized she needed to ask for help—and we were happy to be there for her. To all the kids reading this: you only get one mom cherish her and HELP HER!

This experience taught us all about balance, gratitude, and teamwork. Sometimes life slows you down so you can see what really matters.

Closing Reflections

October reminded us that growth often comes with change and sometimes with challenge. This month tested our balance, strengthened our faith, and deepened our gratitude. From rigorous new classes to unexpected life lessons, we’ve experienced so much growth as a family.

And through it all, Homeschool Planet has been the steady hand keeping our homeschool world spinning.

I know this homeschool thing can be tricky we all want what’s best for our kids. But here’s the truth: just because a course, academy, or program is marketed as “the best of the best” doesn’t mean it’s the right fit. Sometimes you’re just paying for the name that says XYZ. Colleges don’t care about fancy labels; they care about academics, character, and depth.

They want to know can this student think critically? Are they a world changer? What will having this student bring to our campus community? Yes, grades and test scores matter, but so do curiosity, compassion, and the ability to hold meaningful conversations about the world around them. They don’t want robots they want thinkers and students who will go beyond the limit of the textbook.

Did they enjoy their learning journey? Can they discuss complex ideas about society and global events? Outside of sports, what else do they bring to the table? What makes them happy? What motivates them?

These are the questions that shape the kind of education I’m building for my son. I’m not chasing big names or shiny marketing I’m seeking substance. Because in our homeschool, it’s not about checking boxes; it’s about creating a thinker, dreamer, and lifelong learner who understand that his education and has purpose.

Here’s to a purposeful, healthy, and inspiring November! Click the Homeschool Planet banner below to grab your free trial.

8th Grade, Family Life, High School, Homeschool, Middle School

The Highs of Homeschooling: From a Middle Schooler Point of View!

Little Learner and Mom

Hey y’all!
I’m J aka the Middle Schooler/High schooler who’s been homeschooled for a few years now. Few years? Nah we been at this since the beginning. Being an African American and Latino pre-teen at home has been… interesting, to say the least. There are definitely some big wins that make it worth it. Can you believe my mom let me guest write on her blog this month???? Anyways here’s my take:

The Highs

Go at My Own Speed

I can zoom through math when it clicks, and slow down on the parts that trip me up. No rushing, no judgment, just learning at a pace that finally makes sense.

Sleep? Yes Please

Sometimes I sleep in till 9… okay, once I even started school at 12. My mom wasn’t thrilled, but hey no alarm clocks, no freezing bus rides, just me and my cozy bed.

Learning My Way

I get to explore stuff I actually care about like African American history, coding, or books by Black authors. That freedom makes school way more interesting than endless worksheets and lectures.

Family Time = Bonus

Being home means more family time. We celebrate wins together, talk about tough stuff, and I don’t feel like just another student lost in a crowd.

Video Games = Study Break (Mostly)

One of the best perks? Gaming after I finish my work. Picture this: it’s Friday afternoon, I’ve crushed all my lessons, and I’m ready for Apex on my Switch.

But then I see it: 2-hour time limit.

AHHHHHHHHH! Seriously, Mom?! I just aced algebra! Outside I’m like, “I’m good.” Inside? Total meltdown.

That’s life with an overprotective mom—always worried about too much screen time, too much sugar, too much everything. She means well, but sometimes I just want to breathe. Even with her rules, gaming still feels like the ultimate homeschool reward.

The Real Deal

Okay, now that I knocked out all the fun stuff, let me tell you the truth: homeschooling is hard work. It’s not all gameschooling and sleeping in.

Most homeschoolers do school year-round lighter in the summer, heavier during the regular school year. And every state has its own requirements. I’m fortunate my mom, like a lot of moms, stays on top of it.

What’s been great recently is that my parents are letting me chart my own course. No class, no teacher, no book, no outing is decided without me having a say. It feels like a preview of college, where you pick your own classes and set your own goals. My mom always says, “You have to want it for yourself.” I am working on my time management and its coming along nicely I might say so myself. My mom and dad let me drop the live Honors Biology class. It was moving too slow and the live classes were just doing the labs. I don’t need to sit in a class to do a lab. So I elected to do the pre-recorded class and that way I don’t have to log on, take time away from other things. I do the lab turn in my report and BOOM I am done!! I take classes online with John Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, this has been a HUGE game changer for me.

I’m not wasting my time, my parents’ time, or their money. We’re a team that’s what makes this work. My mom told me she had to give herself a reality check too, because at the end of the day, the stakes are mine. That means no wasting time or money on things that don’t move me toward my end goals. Ultimately, my parents get the final say but trust me, my voice is always in the mix. I am also navigating friendships and socialization differently this year.

Cellphone

I still don’t have a cellphone, but my parents are moving to get me a Gabb Wireless phone, because my Gabb watch has gone crazy!! Like seriously it has gone bonkers doing all kinds of weird things. My Gabb watch was good to me over the last several years and I loved it. I am okay with not having a phone at the moment, but since my homeschool groups tends to do activities that parents just drop off, my parents have decided for safety reasons it time to upgrade. Gabb has been trusted by my family for a few years now. I agree, I have no need for social media and all the stuff that has turned kids into phone zombies. So just like my Gabb Watch it will be just for communication with my parents and few trusted friends.

Beyond the Books

Outside of video games, I’m staying busy. I’m on a debate team, part of a teen law program, into public speaking, and I volunteer at our local masjid. I also tutor younger kids, which keeps me sharp and gives back to my community. I recently joined a program for young black and brown aviators. I also still do piano.

Homeschooling doesn’t mean being stuck at home either I’m fully engaged in my homeschool group and we travel a lot as a family these days. We just got back from a mini trip. We’re headed to Rome in January and Puerto Rico in the spring.

Final Thoughts

Homeschooling is freedom, responsibility, personal growth and teamwork all rolled into one. Sure, I love the flexibility and late mornings, but what makes it lit for me is being part of the decisions, setting my own goals, and growing through real experiences. Sure, sleeping in, starting school late, or dealing with screen-time limits makes me roll my eyes sometimes but I get to learn my way, live on my own schedule, and still fit in epic gaming sessions.

So yeah, homeschool life? I wouldn’t have it any other way. I think I like this blog thing may have to convince mom to let me write again.

Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Parenting, We Do Not Care

Prioritizing Self-Care, Mental Health, and Relationships in a New Homeschool Year!

Little Learner and Mom

This new homeschool year has already been one of the most unpredictable and “crazy” ones for our family. The stakes are changing. My son is 12 years old, and while he’s technically in 8th grade, he’s also working through pieces of high school curriculum. That means I’m now carefully keeping stronger records, deciding what deserves high school credit, and making sure not to overload or pad his transcripts. It’s a balancing act pushing forward without rushing him.

August has always been our “soft start” month, but this year I pushed the official count to September. That gave us room to breathe, explore, and transition into our rhythm. We kicked off with interest-led history, coding, and continuing Algebra 1. Later in the month, Honors Biology came into the mix, along with Outschool classes in law, history, literature, and science. We tried new extracurriculars like archery, swimming, community service, and golf, while also carving out time for field trips and family connection.

But here’s what I’ve learned: none of that works unless we prioritize self-care, mental healthy and relationships. That’s what holds everything together.

Hidden Stressors Our Kids Carry

When we think of stress, we often picture adults juggling bills, jobs, and family responsibilities. But our pre-teens and teens carry their own burdens many of which stay hidden. For some, it’s the pressure of transitioning into harder academics. For others, it’s navigating friendships, body changes, or the social expectations that come with growing up.

For Black and Brown children, there can be added stressors cultural identity, navigating stereotypes, and feeling unseen in certain environments. And while every child faces challenges, these unique pressures should not be ignored. At the same time, all children no matter their background need safe spaces where they can breathe, be heard, and just be kids.

Helping Pre-Teens and Teens Handle Stress

One of the best things I did this year was sit down with my son and ask him directly what was stressing him out. Kids don’t always volunteer this information, but once they feel safe, they’ll open up. Together, we made some adjustments:

  • Clear timelines. All assignments are due by Friday at 3 p.m. No hovering every day. No nagging. Just a rhythm he can depend on.
  • Weekly check-ins. Every Sunday, we spend 30 minutes going over the week ahead. If something looks heavy, we adjust.
  • Looping lessons. Instead of forcing every subject every day, we loop them for variety and less overwhelm.
  • End-of-day check-ins. These became one of the highlights of our homeschool. A chance to reflect, connect, and reset.

For personal self-care, my son asked for more downtime in the evenings. We turned his room into a sanctuary gamer theme, collectibles, cozy lights, and even a mini fridge stocked with healthy snacks. He loves his essential oils diffuser, tea lights, and a space where he feels in control. These small changes have given him peace and independence.

Setting Boundaries as a Family

Another big shift we made this year was around screen time and boundaries for all of us, not just my son. Together, we created a homeschool agreement that spelled out expectations for the whole family. Because we wrote it as a family, we’re all holding each other accountable.

And let me tell you, my son is serious about keeping me on track. If I slip, he’ll shut my laptop and remind me that my phone belongs upstairs in my bedroom. I’ve also turned off my social media notifications so I can stay present. Dad has his boundaries too we agreed as a family to respect our homeschool time during the day.

On my side, I rearranged my online teaching schedule to match what works best for us. I also made sure my classes never overlap with his online classes. That way, he knows he’s the priority, and I’m modeling what it looks like to set healthy boundaries.

Self-Care for Mom

As moms, we carry so much—planning, teaching, homemaking, and guiding. But pouring from an empty cup is not sustainable. For me, self-care isn’t optional; it’s survival.

Here’s what that looks like in my day-to-day:

  • Morning tea and quiet reflection. Before the house wakes up, I sip tea, read my Quran, and center myself.
  • Nightly brain dump. I write everything down before bed so my mind can rest.
  • Pampering routines. My new shower routine feels indulgent, but it’s also grounding.
  • Fresh air breaks. When the weather cools, I plan to spend more time on the porch with tea in hand.
  • Reading for joy. Not just audiobooks while multitasking, but truly reading, laughing, and enjoying stories.
  • Creative outlets. Journaling, scrapbooking, and planning bring me peace and creativity.
  • Music Playlist. I created a “Mental Reset” playlist on Amazon Music, so everyone in my house knows when they hear me ask Alexa to play it…..Mom needs some space.
  • Declare 1 hour of mom time daily!!!!!

Self-care doesn’t need to be extravagant it just needs to be intentional. Even one small change can bring more harmony into the home.

Level Up & Legacy Talks

One of the best new traditions we started is our Level Up & Legacy Talks. During this time, we read books like Letters to a Young Brother by Hill Harper, talk about culture, mindset, and growing up, and check in with each other. My son calls it his favorite part of the week. These talks are helping him build confidence, identity, and vision for his future. We a few books we are going to rotate through, but we are starting with this one and will move on to a new one soon.

And this year, we’re including Dad more too. When he’s available, he joins our homeschool day for Socratic conversations. It’s been powerful for all of us.

Why This Year Feels Different

We’re still sticking with a few Oak Meadow Grade 8 its we are wrapping up, but we’ve added in their Personal Finance and Geography courses. Last year, my son loved Oak Meadow Civics, and this year we’re wrapping up what we didn’t finish. Balancing 8th grade with some high school-level work feels new and intense.

Homeschool Kids Aren’t Social?

I wish whoever started this rumor would go somewhere and have several seats. My kid is beyond socialized he keeps my planner filled with all his activities and events. He may not be “scheduled” in the traditional sense, but I’ll say this I actually have to send his dad a monthly itinerary just to keep track of everything!

For this upcoming year alone, he’s been invited to join Junior Beta and a formal Debate Team. Our homeschool co-op will be packed with fun and adventures, and come November, he’ll officially be part of the Teen Collective he’s counting down the days! He’s also joining the Homeschool Honor Society and has received formal mentorship invitations from both Georgia Tech and UGA.

Fun Times with Friends!!

On top of that, we’ve got two big trips planned in October and December, and in January we may be heading to Rome, Italy, to present at the same conference we spoke at earlier this year.

2025 International School Choice Reform Conference

That’s why self-care for both of us has become a top priority. Stay tuned for our full 2025–2026 Homeschool Curriculum line-up; we’ve got a few surprises in store!!

The Power of Meal Planning

Another form of self-care? Meal planning. It may not sound glamorous, but freeing up that mental energy makes a big difference. Our simple routine looks like this:

  • Monday – Leftovers
  • Tuesday – Tacos
  • Wednesday – Leftovers
  • Thursday – Light (salads, sandwiches)
  • Friday – Pizza Night
  • Saturday – Leftovers or Light
  • Sunday – Big dinner (enough for Monday too)

This routine saves me time, energy, and stress. Even if you only meal prep every other week, it can bring breathing room into your homeschool.

Nobody’s Perfect—And That’s Okay

Homeschooling isn’t about perfection. It’s about finding what works for your family, making small adjustments, and showing up with love. We’re all trying to do what’s best for our kids. Some days will be smooth. Some will be messy. And that’s okay.

A Closing Word for Fellow Moms

This year has already been full of lessons, but the biggest one is this: prioritize your relationships and your well-being just as much as the academics. Because when our kids feel supported and we feel centered, the learning flows more naturally.

To all the homeschool moms reading this I invite you to pause, reflect, and think about what small changes could bring more harmony to your homeschool. Maybe it’s a nightly check-in, a personal self-care ritual, or a simple meal plan. Whatever it is, embrace it. Our families don’t need perfection; they need presence. Here’s to a school year filled with growth, connection, and peace.

Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Homeschool Family

Confessions of a Homeschool Mom: Trusting the Process and the Child

Little Learner and Mom

Reflecting on the Middle School Years

Let me back up before someone decides to come for me about this blog post, this is my truth and I am sharing it for my own peace and sanity. If someone finds it helpful I am glad I could shed a little light on our experience.

As we near the end of our middle school journey, I find myself in a season of deep reflection. My son is only 12 and technically suppose to be entering 7th grade this upcoming year, but because we’ve always homeschooled with flexibility, we’ve done hybrid years, bouncing between grade levels based on his needs. This past year was a 7th/8th-grade blend, and the year ahead will be 8th/9th.

One big question I’ve been grappling with is:

Do we stick with a full 8th-grade curriculum or continue our hybrid model? Should I savor this final year of middle school or press ahead into high school coursework?

Letting My Child Take the Lead

Here’s what I know for sure:

My son asked for a more comprehensive science curriculum this year. And we decided on one together. Yes, I said we. Too often, as homeschool parents, we map out the entire school year without ever asking our kids what they want. Some of us ask out of formality, but do we really listen? Then we just continue on with our own agenda. We get caught in the race for rigor, credits, dual enrollment and forget that they’re the ones learning it. Just making decision because it just easier and manageable for us. Its our kids doing the work and carrying the load. Then we get upset if things aren’t progressing the way we want and then the stress and the battles begin.

Now, don’t get me wrong my husband and I still set core goals. There are non-negotiable. But because my son clearly expressed his passions (medicine and law), we’ve made space for his interests to take center stage. We follow his lead and build around that.

Our Math Journey: From Burnout to Breakthrough

We’re continuing with Denison Math and Mr. D Math this year. And before I go further yes, Denison Math does have a track for students who struggle, but that’s not why we chose it. My son actually loves math and has always excelled. We chose Denison because it helped him fall back in love with the subject.

A few years ago, I forced him through Saxon 6/5 right after finishing Abeka 3 he placed out of Saxon 4/5. Why did I do this? I am going to keep it real I was SELFISH!!! Saxon worked for me, I loved it and after all its one of the top tier math curriculum in the homeschool community. Plus I dropped well over $100 for this curriculum plus the online platform. It was overkill. Too many repetitive problems, too much over explanation, and not enough challenge. He confessed to me this year that he didn’t learn anything new that year. That he felt like he was suffocating. That it was just busywork and he was bored. He hated it.

Imagine my shock. He held that in for years.

After that, we ditched Saxon for good. We transitioned through the last levels of Math-U-See and completed Mr. D’s Preparing for Pre-Algebra in one academic year. Then we landed on Denison Pre-Algebra and I saw the light come back into him. He was thriving, not just surviving.

He’s now moved into Denison Algebra 1 and Mr. D Algebra Gamified. He uses Mr. D for quizzes and exams and is acing every one. He’s confident, calm, and free to enjoy other subjects too. Since we aren’t spending hours on one subject. We are tag teaming note-taking which has worked great for us at the suggestion of homeschool mom friend. We are working math together, he is happy and welcomes doing math six days out of the week. HE has sat a goal for himself he wants finish geometry by Summer 2026. At the time of me writing this he is wrapping chapter 12 and has 5 more chapters to go in Algebra 1. He has a great foundation and is doing really well in his SAT math prep class this summer. He even took classes at John Hopkins Center for Talented Youth online math class and did very well with his middle school and high school peers. In May he did some professional testing for gifted and talented kids and he placed high on the math section.

The Cost of Not Listening

Looking back, not listening to him that year cost us more than just time. It caused unnecessary power struggles and damaged his trust. What did I actually teach him that year? That I didn’t trust his instincts about his learning.

That moment changed everything for me.

Now, he has a voice in our homeschool planning. His concerns are valid, his input matters. Yes, he still does hard things, and no, he won’t love every subject but he knows I trust him. That I see him and not the curriculum!

Beyond the Checklist

I don’t want our homeschool to just be a checklist of college prep boxes. I want it to be a partnership rooted in respect. He’s not in 1st grade anymore he’s capable of evaluating curriculum, reviewing class descriptions, and assessing if something is a good fit. The whole purpose of us choosing homeschool was give him a voice in his education and not perpetuate the same educational system we wanted no parts of.

I almost made the same mistake again this year by enrolling him in a class without consulting him. But he looked it over, did his own research, and told me it wasn’t a good fit. I reviewed it myself and he was absolutely right.

It wasn’t a fit for us. And maybe next year it will be. But this year, we’re choosing peace, purpose, and partnership. If we need to change some things after giving it a good try that is okay, because he knows we have his back and will hold him accountable for his decisions and we trust him.

Executive Function, Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Homeschool Family, Homeschool Planner, Middle School

Streamlining Homeschool Planning with Homeschool Planet!

Little Learner and Mom

We received for Homeschool Planet for our honest review. This review may contain affiliate links at no additional charge to you.

As a homeschool mom navigating the educational journey with my middle school son over the past two years, I’ve come to rely on Homeschool Planet as an indispensable tool. In this comprehensive review, I’ll delve into how this platform has revolutionized our homeschooling experience, from lesson planning to grade tracking, and how it has nurtured crucial executive skills for both myself and my son.

Lesson Plans

Homeschool Planet offers a treasure trove of lesson plans that can be purchased at low cost, providing a convenient solution for busy homeschooling parents. With just a few clicks, I can browse through a vast array of subjects and grade levels, selecting plans that align perfectly with our curriculum goals and my son’s interests. This feature has been a game-changer, saving me countless hours of research and planning.

Flexibility and Customization

One of the greatest strengths of Homeschool Planet lies in its flexibility. I can easily shift and edit assignments, tailoring our curriculum to suit my son’s individual learning pace and style. Whether we need to adjust the pacing of a particular unit or add supplementary materials to enhance understanding, Homeschool Planet makes it effortless. This adaptability ensures that our homeschooling experience remains dynamic and responsive to my son’s evolving needs.

Tracking Grades, Calendar, and Transcripts

Homeschool Planet excels in its comprehensive grade tracking and transcript generation capabilities. I can effortlessly record grades for assignments and assessments, monitor my son’s academic progress, and generate detailed transcripts that accurately reflect his achievements. This feature has not only simplified record-keeping but has also provided invaluable insights into my son’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Executive Skills Development

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of using Homeschool Planet is its role in nurturing executive skills for both myself and my middle school son. The platform’s user-friendly interface empowers my son to take ownership of his schedule, manage his time effectively, and stay organized. By providing a centralized hub for all of his assignments, deadlines, and resources, Homeschool Planet has fostered independence and responsibility in my son’s approach to learning. As a homeschool mom, I’ve also found that the platform has streamlined the planning and organization process, allowing me to focus more energy on teaching and engaging with my son.

Digital and Written Planners

Homeschool Planet versatility extends to its provision of both digital
and written planners, catering to different preferences and ensuring
accessibility for all users. Whether we’re accessing our homeschooling
materials online or jotting down notes in a physical planner, Homeschool
Planet offers the flexibility and convenience that we need to stay
organized and on track.

Homeschool Planet has been an invaluable asset in our homeschooling journey over the past two years. Its user-friendly interface, extensive library of lesson plans, customizable features, and robust grading and tracking capabilities make it an essential tool for any homeschooling family. With its 30-day free trial (no credit card required) and the added bonus of free Homeschool ID Cards, Homeschool Planet offers an excellent opportunity for families to experience its benefits firsthand. From simplifying lesson planning to nurturing executive skills, Homeschool Planet has truly transformed the way we approach education at home.

Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Islam, Muslim Homeschool, Ramadan

Nurturing Faith and Education: Homeschooling During Ramadan

Little Learner and Mom

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, families around the world are preparing to embark on a journey of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion. For homeschooling families, Ramadan presents a unique opportunity to integrate faith and education, fostering a holistic approach to learning that transcends the confines of traditional classroom settings. I invite you into our homeschooling world as we prepare to embark on this sacred journey together. From enriching resources to cherished rituals, we’re gearing up for a month filled with learning, reflection, and connection.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is a super special time for Muslims around the world. It’s a whole month where we focus on getting closer to Allah, our Creator, through fasting, praying, and doing good deeds. During Ramadan, we fast from dawn until sunset, which means we don’t eat or drink anything during the daylight hours. It’s not just about skipping meals though; it’s about self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. It’s also a time for spending extra time with family, doing extra prayers, and reflecting on how we can be better people. Ramadan is like a spiritual recharge for our hearts and souls, and it’s always a special and exciting time for us!

There are two important meals during Ramadan. Suhoor is the meal we eat before the sun comes up, kind of like our breakfast before starting our fast. It’s super important because it helps us fuel up for the day ahead and gives us the energy we need to fast. We often have wholesome foods like oats, fruits, and protein-rich dishes to keep us feeling full and energized until sunset.

And then, when the sun sets, we have Iftar, which is like a big, celebratory dinner to break our fast. It’s such a special time to come together with family and friends and enjoy delicious food after a day of fasting. We prepare all sorts of tasty dishes, from traditional favorites to special treats, and the joy of sharing this meal with loved ones is truly heartwarming.

When we break our fast during Iftar, it’s a tradition to start with dates. Dates are not only delicious but they also provide a quick source of energy after a long day of fasting. Plus, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to break his fast with dates, so it’s a sunnah, or tradition, that we love to follow. After having dates and some water, we then move on to the rest of our meal, savoring each bite with gratitude and appreciation for the blessings of Ramadan.

Embracing the Spirit of Ramadan

For homeschooling families, this sacred month offers an ideal opportunity to incorporate Islamic teachings and values into their educational curriculum. From reading Quranic verses and learning about the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to engaging in discussions about the significance of fasting and practicing acts of kindness, homeschooling during Ramadan provides a unique platform for nurturing faith and character development.

Integrating Faith and Learning

One of the key benefits of homeschooling during Ramadan is the ability to seamlessly integrate faith-based learning into daily academic activities. Families can explore Islamic history, art, and literature, delve into the science of fasting and its physiological effects on the body, or even incorporate math lessons centered around calculating the lunar calendar. By weaving Islamic principles and teachings into various subjects, homeschooling parents can instill a deep sense of religious identity and belonging in their children, while simultaneously fostering a love for learning.

Fostering a Culture of Reflection and Gratitude

Ramadan encourages believers to engage in self-reflection, gratitude, and mindfulness. Homeschooling provides the perfect platform for fostering these virtues within the family dynamic. Parents can encourage their children to journal their thoughts and reflections on a daily basis, discussing their experiences and insights as a family. Additionally, families can come together for communal iftars (breaking of the fast) and evening prayers, creating an atmosphere of unity and spiritual fellowship that enriches the homeschooling experience.

Practical Tips for Homeschooling During Ramadan

While homeschooling during Ramadan can be a deeply rewarding experience, it also comes with its own set of challenges. To ensure a smooth and successful homeschooling journey during this sacred month, consider the following tips:

  • Plan Ahead: Set realistic goals and expectations for homeschooling activities, taking into account the reduced energy levels that may accompany fasting.
  • Prioritize Spiritual Growth: Allocate time for Quranic recitation, dua (supplication), and other spiritual practices as part of your daily routine.
  • Embrace Flexibility: Be open to adjusting your homeschooling schedule to accommodate the rhythms of Ramadan, allowing for rest and rejuvenation as needed.
  • Encourage Acts of Kindness: Incorporate opportunities for charitable giving and community service into your homeschooling curriculum, reinforcing the importance of compassion and empathy.
  • Stay Connected: Seek support from fellow homeschooling families and community members, sharing resources, ideas, and encouragement to enhance your Ramadan homeschooling experience.

Enriching Ramadan Resources

I try to make our Ramadan days meaningful by adding in some outside resources for my son. Our homeschooling library received a delightful boost this year with new book purchases from The Crescent Moon bookstore. From captivating tales of Islamic folklore to beautifully illustrated stories of faith and resilience, these books have become cherished additions to our literary collection. As we curl up with these literary treasures, we’re transported to faraway lands and timeless tales that inspire and uplift our spirits.

Participating in Noor Kids Ramadan Camp has become a highlight of our homeschooling journey. With engaging lessons, fun activities, and interactive discussions, my son is learning about the importance of faith, community, and compassion in a nurturing and supportive environment. Noor Kids Ramadan Camp fosters a sense of belonging and connection, empowering my to son to embrace his Muslim identity with pride and confidence.

Also part of our preparations for Ramadan, we’ve gifted our son with a new Quran and Dua Made Easy Cards. These resources serve as invaluable tools for nurturing his spirituality and strengthening his connection to Allah. With his new Quran in hand, he eagerly embarks on the journey of memorization and reflection, while the Dua Made Easy Cards provide simple yet profound supplications to guide him through the challenges and joys of daily life. To enrich our understanding of Islamic history and heritage, we’ve incorporated resources from Unboxed History into our homeschooling curriculum.

Sustaining Body and Soul with Meal Prep and Family Meals

Oh, in addition to nourishing our minds and hearts, we’re also mindful of nourishing our bodies during Ramadan. Meal prepping and making hearty meals to sustain us throughout the day become cherished rituals in our homeschooling household. Meal prepping has been a great way for us to spend time as a family. This year I had my son help me plan our meals and meal prep items. He really enjoyed this time because we have had some meaningful conversations.

Homeschooling during Ramadan is a deeply enriching experience that allows us, as homeschooling moms, to nurture our children’s hearts, minds, and souls in profound ways. By balancing faith and education, embracing flexibility, seizing teachable moments, cultivating a culture of reflection, and building a supportive community, we can create a homeschooling experience that honors the spirit of Ramadan and fosters growth and learning for our children. May this Ramadan be a blessed and transformative journey for homeschooling families everywhere.

Family, Family Life, Homeschool, Parenting

Beehive App Homeschooling and Parenting Simplified

Little Learner and Mom

We received Beehive App for our honest paid review.

Staying organized is so hard to do. I am always looking for ways to maximize and simplify my time throughout the day. Trying to juggle three people’s schedules, appointments, and homeschool can be quite and undertaking. I do love a good planner, I have several because the seasons in our home change often. Beehive app has been helping me the last few weeks to manage our homeschool and simplify our day.

Beehive App

Beehive is a parenting app designed to simplify the lives of busy parents. With Beehive, you can manage your family’s schedule, create to-do lists, and keep track of important information all in one place. The app is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate even for those who are not tech-savvy.

One of the standout features of Beehive is the ability to create and share a family calendar. You can add events and appointments, set reminders, and even invite other family members to join and contribute to the calendar. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and avoids any scheduling conflicts.

Beehive also allows you to create to-do lists for yourself or your family members. You can assign tasks, set deadlines, and even track progress. This makes it easy to stay on top of household chores and other responsibilities.

How It Work for Us

My son takes several online classes throughout the month. While it easy to schedule and pay for these classes, keeping track of them can be stressful. I don’t know how many times I have forgotten about classes and had reschedule them it just lost money. Beehive App has made things a little less chaotic the last few weeks. I have gotten in the habit as soon as I schedule a class for him I input it into the Beehive App and I have been making it a habit to check the app daily.

I am really like the the ability to record my son grades and see the graphed in real time. The added math growth plan is really great because my son has been jumping on when we are between lessons or when he is eating breakfast.

Beehive App Growth Plan

What is unique about Beehive it isn’t just an app for tracking grades, events and memories. The app has practice lessons for your students to complete at their own pace. These lesson are based upon their grade level when you set up your student. After you record six grades into your school section, the app will generate a growth plan activities in:

  • Math
  • Reading
  • Science
  • Writing
  • Social Studies

At the time of this review we are working on the math growth and I am looking forward to seeing the other subjects generate over the next few weeks.

Household Management Simplified

Household management can be a lot of work, especially when you have a busy schedule. Beehive has been a great app for me to able to add events going on with me and my husband. There are so many event topics you can use in the daily activities. The Beehive app is is really convenient when I don’t have my big planner with me when I am out. Beehive app is available in the Apple and Google Play store.

Overall, Beehive is a great app for busy parents who want to simplify their lives and stay organized. With its user-friendly interface and useful features, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Family, Family Life, History, Homeschool, Kwanzaa, Holidays, Unit Study

What Celebrating Kwanzaa Means to our Family!

Little Learner and Mom

Well, the holiday season is moving fast and there are only a few days until Christmas, but for hundreds of black and brown people, the celebration continues the day after Christmas. Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday that celebrates African culture and its importance in the African-American community. It is celebrated from December 26th to January 1st. Seven core principles are celebrated during this time: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These principles are essential in helping to promote African culture and unify African-Americans. Kwanzaa is also a time to reflect on the history of African-Americans, honor ancestors, and recognize the struggles of the African diaspora. It is a time for African-Americans to come together to celebrate their culture, traditions, and community. Kwanzaa is a time for African-Americans to find strength, embrace their identity, and work together to build a better future.

The seven principles of Kwanzaa are

The seven core principles of Kwanzaa are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). These seven principles serve as a guide for African-Americans to celebrate their African heritage and culture and promote unity and self-improvement.

A few years back I wrote a blog about how we celebrated a Montessori Inspired Kwanzaa. You can read about our Montessori-Inspired Kwanzaa here. I have been meaning to update and write about how celebrating Kwanzaa is an ongoing tradition in our home. My son looks forward to celebrating each year and takes part in lightening the candle and leading the celebration. For us celebrating Kwanzaa is a way of life its not just a week, we practice the principles all year. Kwanzaa is not political or religious and it is not something that is celebrated in Africa. Kwanzaa is mostly celebrated in the United States but it was inspired by the South African region harvest celebration of the “first fruits”. I highly recommend that you do your research beforehand and check out the Official Kwanzaa Website.

I pull our Kwanzaa materials out right after Thanksgiving and I set up our area, you can check out our Kwanzaa unboxing on our Little Learner and Mom Instagram. Setting up early allows me to think about our intentions for the upcoming year and it gives us all a full month to think about these intentions. My son spends his time journaling about each principle and reflecting on how he demonstrated those principles during the year. I personally reflect on Umoja ( Unity) and Nia (Purpose) during the month of December.

Kwanzaa doesn’t require a lot of prep as a matter of fact our first kinara was made out of toilet paper rolls and tissue paper, a handmade Mkeka, and one of my son’s sippy cups. The homemade materials were the best because they were made with the principle of Kuumba in mind. We treasured those materials and set them out continuously each year until they fell apart. For our next Kinara we also made ourselves some wooden candle holders. Our current Kwanzaa set is from Kwanzaa Kit. Over the years we have made changes and built off of the previous year. I plan our meal plan for the week ahead of time, I try to include a special dish or dessert each day on the 6th day we have a grand meal that includes recipes from both my husband and my mother. I also have my son pick a recipe he wants to prepare.

Kwanzaa 2022

This year for Kwanzaa we have lined up:

Resources for Kwanzaa

There are several picture books about Kwanzaa, you can find our favorites in our Amazon store. I have also included some resources for games, cookbooks, kinara sets, and decorations. It is not too late to grab some candles (Mishumaa Saba) from your local craft store and you can just use a candle holder and just light your candles. The Kamali Academy Kwanzaa Unit Study has some wonderful printable principles cards you can print on cardstock and laminate. You can do like we did and just make your material, you will treasure these over the years. I have created a Kwanzaa Pinterest board full of ideas you can look over. Here are a few of my favorite Teacher pay Teacher Resources:

The most important thing about Kwanzaa is making the celebration your own there is no right or wrong way to celebrate. Take baby steps at first and enjoy the week learning and enjoying your family. Kwanzaa is an affirmation of African American people’s connection to their African roots and their history, and it is a time to reflect on the importance of self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa is a time of self-reflection and celebration of African American culture and heritage, and it is a reminder of the importance of community and family.

Be sure to follow us on our Little Learner and Mom Instagram as we celebrate!

Until the Next Time,

Mom

This may contain affiliate links for the product discussed, clicking these links is at no extra charge to you!

Education, Family, Family Life, Morning Basket, Science

Johnathan Park: The Adventure Begins, Series 1 Review!

Little Learner and Mom

Disclosure: I received this complimentary product through the Homeschool Review Crew.

We love audiobooks in our homeschool we try to use them when we are doing activities, as well as to avoid screens. For the last several weeks, my family has been enjoying Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is not an audiobook this is an audio adventure for your children to listen to. I was a little skeptical because my son likes to have the book and audio when does things like this, so I wasn’t sure how he would take to this.

Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1

The Adventure Begins, Series 1 takes the listener on a wonderful journey of science and faith. Students meet Jonathan and his father and immediately throw into an action pack adventure with him and the Brenan family. My son was hooked from the start. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 audio adventure includes amazing sound effects and all the makings of a great book in audio format. I found myself sipping coffee and listening and wanting to know what would happen next in the story.

The Adventure Begins, Series 1 covers the following science topics:

  • The Evolutionary Tree
  • The Convergent Evolution
  • Laws of Energy
  • Designs of the Water Cycle

What is different about these science lessons is they are taught from a faith-based perspective. I didn’t find this an issue because we enjoyed the storyline and liked that it was something different for us to listen to and opened up doors for discussions about these topics and our faith. The Adventure Begins, Series 1 also includes character-building lessons that I appreciate.

Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1 includes four albums, and each album includes three 26-minute adventures. We received the digital version, but Jonathan Park does offer a hardcover version. Downloading the digital was easy to do and I put them on my son’s iPad and we would listen during his handwriting and morning time. Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is based on real places and historical events. The story is fiction but exciting. My son wanted to binge listen to these audio adventures and I had to pace him. The Secrets of the Hidden Cave kits the adventures off as Dr. Park (paleontologist), his son and Brenan’s family stumble upon an exciting discovery. I think what drew him in was that Jonathan was a relatable character.

I know what you are thinking I am being really vague about the story, but you will have to grab Jonathan Park – The Adventure Begins, Series 1 so you can join the adventure. Right now is the perfect time to grab this wonderful series because The Adventure Begins, Series 1 is on sale for nearly 60% off with free shipping in the US using the jpcrew22. Be sure to check out the other Crew’s reviews on Jonathan Park The Adventure Begins, Series 1 by clicking the banner below.

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanParkAudioAdventures