thThis week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: How to Handle Shakespeare for Homeschool Co-ops- Special Replay.

How to Handle Shakespeare for Homeschool Co-ops

Sabrina and Vicki love Shakespeare and they love teaching Shakespeare for their homeschool co-ops. They have had so many fun experiences with their high schoolers as the teens learned about Shakespeare and a few of his most famous plays.

So what are some ways to handle Shakespeare for your homeschool co-op?

Keep it fun! Don’t scare the teens off by taking his works too seriously!

Remember, there’s not ONE right way to homeschool high school and there’s not ONE right way to teach Shakespeare.

Show the teens the timelessness of some of his characters. (Some of the character types are folks you can run into today. Look for Sabrina’s Literature Study Guides for Shakespeare to help with this.) You can start with this FREEBIE on timeless expressions that Shakespeare gave us.

Also, check out this episode with Sabrina that has more ideas on teaching Shakespeare.

Traditional Academic Co-op (Let’s call it Sylvester)

The Sylvester co-op feels comfortable with textbooks, scope and sequences, syllabi, and grading assignments with rubrics. When approaching teaching Shakespeare, Sylvester co-op teachers will plan for a formal atmosphere. They will spend a lot of time translating Elizabethan English into modern English. Also, they will teach iambic pentameter with counting syllables and finding accents in lines of words. They will discuss rhyming couplets. They might even do some copywork with this FREEIE from our friend, Kat Patrick.

This is all fine and dandy! (Remember, there’s not ONE right way to teach Shakespeare!) But Sylvester co-op, here’s word of advice: You might be tempted to ONLY do those things. Sabrina recommends that Sylvester gets a little loose and have fun. How to do that?

Ask yourselves: Why has Shakespeare remained so popular all these years? Now you can answer yourselves: Because it’s good storytelling with good characters.

While there is strange language, important form and structure, there is lots of interesting stuff to discuss in co-op. Take for instance: Discuss Much Ado About Nothing. It is a Shakespearian rom-com! Anyone who has seen a modern romance-comedy can find points of connection back to Much Ado About Nothing!

Organic, Bordering on Unschooling Co-op (Let’s call it Beatrice)

The Beatrice co-op might be a bit all over the place. They might be allowing a go-with-the-flow, find-a-passage-to-read co-op. They will probably be acting out favorite scenes in a light-hearted manner.

That is all groovy! (Remember, there’s not ONE right way to teach Shakespeare!) But Beatrice co-op, here’s a word of advice: You might be tempted to just have fun with interacting with favorite scenes. However, Sabrina recommends spending a little time explaining why Shakespeare wrote in iambic pentameter.

You know why? Because Shakespeare’s plays were produced by a company (SO many plays for one company to remember, line after line after line). But what Shakespeare knew (like many of his playwright peers) was that the rhythm patters of Shakespeare’s plays made heavy memorization of lines possible (and quicker). That’s because the rhythm of iambic pentameter is similar to English speech patterns and the musicality of the rhythm aids the memorization.

A fun activity for a co-op like Beatrice is to take a conversation the students just had over lunch, write it down, and then change it to iambic pentameter!

The Somewhere-in-between Co-op (Let’s call it Bob)

The Bob co-op is so moderate, a bit of fun, bit of strenuous academics. You have a lot going on at your co-op. You could choose a couple of scenes for creating a readers theater production.

Readers theater is a bit more than just a reading around the room- that’s fun, though, try it sometime. Rather, you will cast students as specific characters. They will read over and study them ahead of time, they read the script as part of the performance.

Usually characters wear black with one special piece that helps identify the character- like the “fool” character wearing a jester’s hat. This piece can be anachronistic, too- like a sea captain wearing a modern sailor hat.

Readers theater works great on Zoom, btw!

I guess our co-ops were a bit Sylvester-sh, Bob-ish AND Beatrice-ish because our homeschool high schoolers did all these activities with their favorite teacher, Sabrina!

SO, how do you handle Shakespeare for homeschool co-ops?

One way is to use 7SistersHomeschool’s soon-to-be-released Literature Study Guides for Shakespeare! Sabrina has created these guides based on the activities she did with our teens. The guides will include:

• Much Ado About Nothing
• Mid-Summer Night’s Dream
• Hamlet
• King Lear

Like all 7Sisters study guides, they will be no-busywork, don’t-kill-the-play. They will focus on the timelessness of the plays and characters, a little bit on form and structure, and links to good productions of Shakespeare’s plays for the teens to watch.

Join Vicki and Sabrina (and the Bard) for an inspirational discussion! For more on teaching Shakespeare, try some ideas from our friend, Kat Patrick.

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Character Development in Homeschool High School.

Character Development in Homeschool High School

In a world that often prioritizes achievement over integrity, character development stands as a vital pillar of a well-rounded education, especially for homeschool high schoolers. As homeschooling parents, we have a unique opportunity to nurture not just our teens’ minds but also their hearts and values. 

Character development is a key focus for many of us homeschoolers because we aim to help our young people become:

• confident and Christlike leaders
• influencers and
• culture creators

It involves teaching teens that their character matters. This includes developing skills in five general areas that they should carry from high school into adulthood. 

Let’s dive into these five key areas of character development in homeschool high school with practical strategies to help teens grow into compassionate, confident, and principled individuals who can thrive both in their homeschool years and beyond!

Social Graces

Social graces are essential for teens to gain confidence and interact positively with others. Politeness skills, such as saying please and thank you, can make a significant difference in how teens are perceived. 

Practicing these skills helps them stand out in various settings, from the workplace to extracurricular activities. 

Additionally, teens build social graces by learning to:

• be considerate in crowded spaces and
• use technology politely, including with digital communication

One guide we used with our younger homeschoolers (and sometimes reviewed when they were in high school) is 7Sisters Social Skills for Children.

Self-Composure

Self-composure is a vital skill for managing emotions and reactions. It involves maintaining calmness in various situations, whether in public, on social media, or at home. 

Teens can develop this skill by practicing self-awareness through the three W’s: 

• What am I feeling? 
• Why am I feeling that way? 
• What am I going to do about it? 

This practice helps them make conscious choices and maintain composure. By practicing self-awareness through the three W’s, teens can learn to handle stress and maintain their cool in diverse situations, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience.

BTW- these are skills that are also discussed in 7Sisters Health curriculum.

Assertiveness

Assertiveness is about letting speech be with grace and knowing how to answer every person. It’s also about expressing oneself with clarity.

Encouraging teens to set boundaries and communicate effectively can empower them to stand up for themselves while maintaining respectful interactions.  It involves setting these boundaries and asking for what is needed without losing their temper or shutting down. 

This skill is essential for navigating peer pressure and making informed decisions. Teens can practice assertiveness by learning to say no when necessary and using grace and wisdom in their communication. 

Empathy and Altruism

Instilling a sense of empathy and a commitment to helping those who are weaker or new can enrich a teen’s character:

• Looking out for those who are weaker involves recognizing 
• Supporting individuals who may be older, younger, have a difference or disability
• Welcoming those are new to a group 

It is about welcoming and including newcomers, as demonstrated by Jesus’ teachings. This skill encourages teens to introduce themselves to new people and help them feel accepted.

Drawing inspiration from teachings, such as welcoming strangers and supporting those in need, can guide teens in becoming compassionate and inclusive members of their communities.

Prayer and Spiritual Growth

Providing values for teens with tools for a guilt-free and personal prayer life can enhance their spiritual growth and character development. Prayer is an essential tool for character development, helping teens connect with God in a way that is comfortable for them. Encouraging a guilt-free prayer life allows teens to grow spiritually and develop stronger character. 

One way to explore their faith is through journaling. 7Sisters prayer journals with prompts can be a fun and engaging way for teens to get to know their spirituality and strengthen their connection with God. 

Another way is through learning apologetics, which can develop into lifelong habits of studying the bible and learning about God and His word. 7Sisters offers a FREE apologetics video curriculum.

Whether through journaling or other forms of reflection, encouraging a meaningful connection with God can support teens in becoming grounded and purpose-driven individuals.

Character Development in Homeschool High School

With these five areas of character development, homeschool parents can guide these critical values for teens, leading them toward becoming well-rounded, confident, and compassionate individuals. These skills can help prepare them for academic and professional success as well as equip them to make positive contributions to society.

Together, let’s nurture the next generation of leaders and change-makers!

For more resources and practical exercises, visit our 7SistersHomeschool website. 

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post!

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: High School Astronomy Text: With Astronomer Gladys Kober.

High School Astronomy Text: With Astronomer Gladys Kober

The heavens declare the glory of God! Studying astronomy is a wonderful way to earn a homeschool high school science credit. That’s why Vicki was excited to chat with Gladys Kober, who brought together a team of Christian astronomers to create a solid astronomy science textbook.

The Crossroads of Science and Faith: Astronomy through a Christian Worldview  is a wonderful science curriculum that dives deep into the wonders of the universe while weaving in the connections between science and faith. 

It’s a fresh, thought-provoking approach that’s perfect for homeschoolers looking to explore the cosmos from a unique perspective. Meet Gladys to learn more about her high school astronomy curriculum where science meets faith!

About Gladys Kober

Gladys Kober, a Brazilian astrophysicist serves as a data analyst at NASA and teaches at Montgomery College. 

Her passion for astronomy began in childhood, fueled by an insatiable curiosity about the universe. A pivotal moment for Gladys was in kindergarten when another child drew a picture of the solar system. Gladys was fascinated by that drawing.

Gladys would ask questions to her mom about the mind-boggling vastness of space, and so, to help with her need for more, her mom would buy her books about astronomy

Fast forward to college, where Gladys struggled with her faith, although raised in church and believing in God at a very early age. Her question during college was whether the God that exists is the God of the Bible. She started to question her faith because she wanted to find out the truth.

However, despite facing this crisis of faith during her college years, her journey ultimately led her to a deeper understanding of the harmony between science and faith.  And she received a master’s degree in astrophysics. 

Now, Gladys works part-time at NASA at Goddard Space Flight Center where she is a data analyst in astronomy as well as an image processor. She also works as adjunct faculty at Montgomery College teaching Astronomy 101. She created the astronomy curriculum for homeschool high schoolers surrounding faith and astronomy.

The Crossroads of Science and Faith

Gladys used to give seminars for homeschool moms in churches, and they would ask for a textbook. This made Gladys put all that she was teaching in the form of a textbook with the help of about 30 professional astronomers contributing with chapter reviews and interviews. 

The inception of this textbook was inspired by a calling Gladys felt to create a resource that integrates science with faith. She also created a version for adults and church groups:  The Crossroads of Science and Faith: An Introduction to the Science and Faith Dialogue. 

The textbook serves as both an astronomy curriculum and a worldview guide. It features interviews with renowned scientists, offering students insights into the lives and beliefs of those at the forefront of research.

About the Astronomy Curriculum for Homeschools

The high school astronomy curriculum is a textbook divided into two parts:

• a comprehensive introduction to the science-faith dialogue, which is apologetics,
• and a year-long astronomy curriculum. 

It prepares students to engage in the secular environment with confidence and without feeling intimidated. They will be able to discern philosophical agendas and make sound arguments, equipping students with the tools to engage in intelligent discussions about science and faith. 

The curriculum also emphasizes the concept of fine-tuning in the universe, which is a very strong evidence of design in the universe, presenting it in an accessible manner for high school learners.

Available in print and digital formats, this high school astronomy curriculum is a valuable addition to any homeschool high schooler’s studies. It not only provides a solid science elective credit for high schoolers, but also prepares students for future challenges by fostering critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for the universe and its Creator.

High School Astronomy Curriculum: Interview with Astronomer, Author, and Professor Gladys Kober

The Crossroads of Science and Faith present a unique opportunity for homeschoolers to explore the vastness of the universe through a lens that respects both scientific inquiry and spiritual belief. Gladys Kober’s textbook is a testament to the power of education to inspire and equip the next generation of thinkers and believers. 

If you want your kids to journey through the stars, explore the possibilities this curriculum offers by visiting Glimpse of His Splendor. 

Gladys will also be teaching online high school students using her textbook through the Kepler platform. You are welcome to register through Kepler Education.

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post!

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Realistic Holiday Expectations- Special Replay.

Realistic Holiday Expectations

Ahhh, it’s Christmas Eve!

The Yule log glowing in a Christmas fireplace. Children, dressed in Christmas finery gathered neatly about as they listen enraptured to their grandparents recall family holiday memories. Christmas music plays softly in the background. All the gifts are wrapped. All the decorations are neatly in place. Everyone is enjoying a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows and spices…

Okay, enough of that. Let’s talk about REALISTIC holiday expectations so that you don’t break your heart or get snookered by the myth of perfection this Christmas.

Join Sabrina, Kym and Vicki while we have a fun, encouraging chat about realistic holiday expectations.

Let’s start out with how to make a wonderful idea gone awry into a funny story!

Yep, that is the best thing you can do when the best laid plans of moms and men gang aft a-gley! Why weep or get angry. Look for a way to take a breath and predict some laughing.

For instance:

• Kym tells the story of the Christmas when the turkey wouldn’t thaw.
• Sabrina shares about the crock pot ham cooked for twelve hours on high (accidentally).
• Vicki tells about going into labor when she leaned over to put the turkey into the oven.

We imagine most folks have some stories that are funny now but were unexpected at the moment! Look for the laugh as quickly as you can.

Different Christmas-love languages!

We all have different Christmas-love languages. Let’s talk about six different people and their expectations for Christmas based on their Christmas-love languages (or lack thereof).

Sophie: the gift giver and receiver

Sophie loves everything about gift giving- from choosing gifts to wrapping them while Christmas music wafts through the air. She also love the joyful moments of receiving gifts, as well. Sophie LOVES Christmas and the gifts!

Bertha: the hustle and bustle mom

Bertha also loves Christmas! Especially all the special events and activities. The choirs and teas and parades and movie and gardens! She especially loves the family events. Bertha’s Christmas-love language is hustle and bustle!

Matthew: the tradition keeper

Matthew is a Christmas guy! He loves the traditions of Christmas and the quality time with families. Matthew treasures those family rituals that he can predict will happen each Christmas. Matthew’s Christmas-love language is traditions.

But also, there’s not ONE right way to do Christmas!

So, let’s look at the relative who have other Christmas-love languages.

Maria: doesn’t mean to be a Scrooge, but she’s exhausted. She could use a little peace.

Maria has a really full life- homeschooling the kids, working a side job, caregiving her aged parents, struggling to make ends meet. She feels overwhelmed with all the extra Christmas  She loves Jesus, her family and her life, but the expectations of Christmas leave her feeling tired. Maria’s Christmas-love language is: I could use a little peace.

Scott: he’s financially taxed. He could use a little Christmas people-giving-him-pass-on-the-presents

Scott actually claims that he’s not a Christmas person! However, what he really means is that the unexpected and long-term financial strains he’s been through have left him broke. Scott loves his gift-giving cousin, Sophie, but feels bad because he can’t reciprocate. (He even feels bad receiving gifts because he can’t give this year.) Scott’s Christmas-love language is: People giving him a pass on the presents.

Deloris: She’s going through grief

Deloris feels sad at Christmas. She had a really tough Christmas season a few years ago. The losses that year were so sad and traumatic, that her body triggers sadness every year at Christmas. Deloris’ Christmas-love language is: sit with me and listen nonjudgmentally and don’t expect “happy Christmas” from me this year.

Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of Christmas-love languages. What would you say is yours?

How to handle your own Christmas-love languages and holiday expectations

We can identify our own Christmas-love languages and clarify what we think we are expecting. Then we can make decisions that make the most of the holidays by adjusting our expectations in a realistic way!

Not only that, if we admit that we all have different Christmas-love languages and holiday expectations, we can also be open to clarifying those of our family members, too! This is a great idea when it comes to homeschooling high school.

Kym talks about their annual cookie-baking day. Her teens complained that cookie day can easily become a production line rather than an interpersonal, fun day.

Talk about expectations with your teens

Teens’ tend to be busy. It’s a good idea to talk together with them to clarify their needs, schedules, and wants. Come to agreement on what to expect for this holiday season.

For instance, if you have a Bertha, who loves the activities, but there’s not time for everything, talk about things. Give some extras to Bertha but set boundaries where you must. It helps to ask for everyone’s top three wishes, then see if you can make some or most of those happen.

Sabrina’s family is a blended family with a husband on shift work. It took a while to figure out how to get everyone together for the holidays. The family talked together and came up with a later date for their family celebration time. They call it: Merry NewYearsMass.

Grandparents, parents and family-story traditions

When families get together, it’s not uncommon for the older generations to fall into “remember-when” stories. Teens sometimes get tired of hearing the same stories over and over. Lots of older people are Christmas-love traditionalists.

Give your teens some holiday social skills for patient and polite listening. It will help them grow stronger… AND one idea you can give them. Have them jot down one of their grandparents’ stories. Then use 7Sisters Holiday Family Narrative Guide to create an amusing short story (and one of the annual required English/Language Arts papers).

Remember the culture of the group

In other words, notice the different Christmas-love languages in your family and friends! Teach teens to be kind and patient with other Christmas-love languages and cultures.

Help teens plan ahead for irritating moments. Give them these ideas:

• Be slow to take offense.
• Look at the eternal value. Will this matter in twenty years?
  • As Kym says: Learn to be a duck, not a doormat.
• Is it important to argue now? Is this the time?

Beware of HALT

In the holidays, schedules are hectic and weird, and food is different. People will at some point everyone will hit HALT:

• Hungry
• Angry
• Lonely
• Tired

If you’re in HALT, things will NOT go well.

Be flexible and keep your expectations of others VERY small

Model a grateful heart for your teens. Be happy for what goes well but don’t worship traditions. Don’t micromanage others or be grumpy if they don’t want to do things your way.

Let go of the idea of a “perfect Christmas”. There’s really no such thing in real life! When you set realistic expectations for the holidays, you and yours will be happier!

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Helping Teens to Be Wise in Troubled Times.

Helping Teens to Be Wise in Troubled Times

Vicki works with teens and adults in her counseling practice. She has learned that in our world of current events, times can get people stressed out, anxious, and worried. Then, it’s sometimes hard to be wise and maintain a Christ-like character.

However, we want to be wise. We want to maintain a Christlike character and give our teens the tools to do that.

Let’s talk about some spiritual and practical tools for being wise and Christlike during troubled times.

Here are a few ideas:

Proverbs 1:6 tells us that the fear (reverence or awe) of God is the beginning of knowledge. (Wisdom belongs to people who fear God, those who despise it are fools.)

So, during troubled times, our teens (and we adults) will be wiser if we are spending more energy on finding the ways to show reverence to God or experience His awe. (One beautiful way to experience awe is to go outside for a walk, or take a nature field trip. Look for beautiful things God created, such as the sky, clouds, birds, trees. Express some gratitude. You will find awe.)

What would Jesus do?

Probably not act out angrily, argue with difficult people at holiday dinners. Not only that, we probably would not be doing what Jesus would do if we allow ourselves to become swallowed with fear about the situations in politics or the world. Remember, God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Model for your teens how to pray, then let go and let God when they feel afraid.

Grow in the fruit of the spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 says that the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, and self control.

So, if fruit of the spirit is growing from our spirit, and flowing out of our mouths, we can model that fruit for our teens. When we are our teens about the fruit of the spirit, then we can go through troubling times in a way that keeps us in line with God. AND maybe even might lead people to Christ who watch us.

Pray

One of the best gifts a parent can give a teen during these troubled times is the gift of prayer and listening to God (rather than constantly listening to the news).

I have found it useful to help my teens pray for the nation. One way to pray for our country is asking God to bring 2 Chronicles 7: 14 alive in Christians’ lives:

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

This is a promise that God gave to the Israelites back in the day. We can still see tbis “healing of the land” happen occasionally. People of faith have occasionally humbled themselves. and prayed together and sought God’s face and turned from their own wicked ways (you know, own meanness, selfishness, crankiness…).

Then God in those times has heard from heaven and forgiven their sins. And for a period of time has healed their land. There were great revivals. (Look up the story of the 1904 revival that swept the globe.)

There’s also 2 Timothy 2:1-2

 I exhort therefore, first of all, That supplications, prayers, intercession, giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings, and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty.

So your teens (and you) can start with praying for the world. Then pray for everybody you know, pray for everybody in leadership, anybody in authority- in fact, mention “all men”. It will help your teens learn to lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Doesn’t that sound good?

Practical tips for being wise during troubled times

There are so many simple ways to stay in a healthy place even in crazy times.

Ask, “Who is making a profit on my anger, attention or fear?”

When teens are feeling anger or fear while watching news or social media influencers, help them to ask themselves:

Who is profiting from the news that they see?

For instance, who is making money off of your viewer time? News outlets make money off of advertising. Social media influencers make money off of advertising. .

Teens need to learn that when news is making them very angry or very scared to be aware of somebody’s making money off of that. When we are angry or scared, we tend to keep clicking and watching and watching and watching And getting more and more. And so that’s more ads.

Sometimes politicians or influencers are working on the kind of profiting that might not be directly money, but it is a currency of power.  There’s somebody behind it who is making money or getting power off of it and to be wise with that.

What can you do?

You can go right back to those scriptures. If my people are called by my name, humble themselves and pray, seek my face and turn from their wicked ways or praying for all men, especially those in authority that we can live a quiet and peaceable life. The prayer matters.

God is more powerful and real than the nonsense in the world.

The first thing to do after praying is to do some deep breathing

When we feel angry or sad or scared, our bodies are being flooded with cortisol, which is a stress hormone. And when that happens, we are getting ready to fight, flight or freeze. If our body is getting ready to fight, flight or freeze, it does not need the logic system.

It does not need to think clearly. It does not need to make rational decisions. It needs to fight, flight, or freeze.

Instead, we handle it in the only way to get rid of cortisol. That way is to increase oxygen. You can do that by deep breathing or by going for a walk or working out at the gym.

Just breathe in through your nose. Nice and deep. Count to five, then purse your lips and breathe out. Slow count to seven. If you do that about three times, you will probably notice the difference.

Here is a progressive relaxation exercise that I do every day before I go to sleep.

Learn some digital discernment skills

And so one of the things that I found useful is the News Literacy Project and their Rumor Guard emails. Teens learn to recognize AI and other fake photos and articles.

Also, it is good to subscribe to Ground News. It takes several trending news items of the day and shows what different news sources have said about that same thing. It helps teens develop perspective-taking skills.

Take an apologetics course

7SistersHomeschool has a free apologetics course. It’s from Dr. Gerald Coley, who is our 7Sisters Sabrina and Allison’s dad. He is a professor emeritus at the University of Delaware and a popular local apologetics teacher.

Write elected officials

Not kidding, one of the best life skills a teen can learn is to write their elected officials. So some issues are kind of local, and so they can write like their state representative or senator. Then when things  are of national or international interest to write their U. S. representative, their U. S. senators, the president, and/or the vice president.

We overcome evil with good

And if teens have that tool, they can do so much in life and live so wisely and so Christ like. So let’s think about some ways to overcome evil with good. So let’s say that they’re all anxious or angry or nervous about a current event and they did all the other things and they are still feeling “some kind of way”.

Teach teens that any good deed is overcoming that evil in some kind of way. If you think in God’s economy, God runs his spiritual economy in a different way than we do. So any good deed counts. Service is a good way to build a transcript while something better in the world.

And then what happens? Then they can become the people who are making a culture changers and creators in the world.

Thanks to Seth Tillman for editing this episode. And please join the 7SistersHomeschool Facebook group because you can ask questions and get wisdom from your seventh sisters.

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The post Helping Teens to Be Wise in Troubled Times appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Grace for Holiday Family Gatherings- Special Replay.

Grace for Holiday Family Gatherings

We love having homeschooling siblings to journey along with and have adventures with and learn from. We all learn from each other and discuss all of the things that can be a part of the homeschool high school experience. Every family is different, so embrace what we say all the time: there is not just one right way to homeschool. There are so many right ways to homeschool high school- especially during the holidays! 

A big piece of what we are doing in high school is preparing our teens for adulting. They are going to have a life after graduation. Yes, it may be hard to believe it sometimes, but they are. That is a big piece of what we want those high school years to be doing. And building character, communication skills and relational skills is very important, though it sometimes gets overlooked from high school. 

Did you know there are different kinds of social situations that can be really great character-building experiences for our teens? And since the holidays are upon us, holiday family gatherings are likely in your near future. Here are some ways to equip your teens for these kinds of situations as well as monitor our own character during family gatherings or extended family get-togethers or even just social settings we all have been a part of from time to time.

Building Grace For the Holiday Family Gatherings

Because of national health issues, getting together, especially during the holidays, has been tougher than ever. And it is so vitally important that we be with other people and find ways to gather, to build relationships, celebrate with, communicate with, share a meal, and all those wonderful things. Oh, sharing a meal is such powerful stuff! 

But we have to do it where people have varied degrees of comfort with how close they are to other people. It can be very tricky. So let’s help our teens and ourselves learn how to build grace into our character while approaching these gatherings intentionally, with a level of sensitivity, while we navigate the room with extra people in it.

Tips To Build Grace For the Holidays

When you get together with family, especially extended family, you usually have different versions of what is the right thing to do. In a gathering, is not it funny how we can share a lot of DNA and have very different opinions? 

That should be navigated graciously rather than trying to fix the difficult people that are around you and make them “do it right” or “think it right.” Instead, model Christ-like behavior.

1. Check yourself on your assumptions about people.

We think we know all about our family before these extended gatherings since we’ve known them our whole lives, right? So we think we already know what’s going on with them and know how they can be. It’s like we have a backstory about each person in our minds.

One quote comes to mind:

But there’s nothing worse than knowing that you know just to prove that you know absolutely nothing. – Unknown

In reality, you actually have no idea what is going on in somebody else’s head or in their private life, especially if you don’t see them very often. But you think you know them, and you judge them the moment they do something that you don’t agree with. 

To form gracious assumptions is to take a moment before the gathering and tell yourself:

I am going to assume there’s a good reason for whatever anybody does at this gathering. Perhaps there’s a good reason I know nothing about it.  And if I need to ask about it because I actually need that information, I will do that respectfully. But I will not allow myself to fill in all the blanks in that person’s story because I don’t really know what they’re going through.

So before you even go to the event, agree to intentionally not make assumptions about the other people there.

2. Give them grace even if you think they’re wrong.

So how do we behave when people are not doing it right? One of the things that is our natural response when people are not thinking the right way (because clearly we are the right ones – we are always right) is to let our blood pressure rise while getting an angry face, an irritated posture and start correcting.

We can talk to our teens and model the plan ahead. That is, when people do not do something right, we must still behave with grace towards them.

De-escalate the nonverbals during this time, which will teach your teens how to do that by mirroring your behavior. Have your teen lower their voice while talking a bit more deeper. Then have them bring their shoulders down as well, not up to their ears. See if they can practice a calm exterior. 

3. Practice redirection.

Redirection is a beautiful tool. When things are awkward, just redirect the conversation towards a different topic. 

You could bring humor into the conversation by making a silly little joke at your own expense, such as saying something funny about yourself or making fun of yourself in a funny way. And before you know it, the uncomfortable or awkward topic is gone. Whatever it was that was a problem is a problem no longer. 

Just never aim that “funny expense” at others!

4. Know what your mean face looks like!

In other situations, humans have mirror neurons, so they tend to mimic what they see on other people’s faces. And it happens before you think. For example, when somebody says something kind of stupid and they have their mean face on, your face is going to want to do a mean face too. But if you already know what your calm face is, you can intentionally put on your calm face.

And then people can pick up on their mirror neurons, your calmness, and they will feel some calm too. 

It also helped to look in the mirror. They can say:

When I am really mad, this is my face. And when I’m putting on my game face, I’m putting my game face on for the relatives. It’s my calm face. 

Therefore, while your teens are in the moment, they can do that and behave gracefully towards them.

5. Stay calm.

Sometimes you might witness a person’s behavior crossing the line into abuse. For example, you see someone in one generation who is cornering someone in the younger generation. This is bullying. 

When you need to step in, you can step in very calmly. You might want to start off with saying, “Hey, you can’t talk to them like that. Listen to yourself. You’re being a bully,” even if it is true and honest, but don’t. Unfortunately, it is not going to be very helpful to diffuse the situation. 

Instead, handle things calmer and with the redirection skill we mentioned earlier. Say something like:

• How about we take a break and see what’s left on the appetizer table? Cause this isn’t really making anybody feel festive.
• Let’s take a break. How about we do something else for a while?

But you may need to intervene in a situation that is not good, and if so, you can do it without getting upset yourself by projecting calm. This occurs when you stay calm during a heated moment and extends the illusion of authority by being the calmer person.

What may also help a heated situation to add grace for holiday family gatherings is talking in a calm voice with the calm nonverbals. This makes you the one that’s the power broker, since being calm is actually power. You will be stepping in and doing a calm rescue, which will likely cause the bullying person to feel a bit lost or embarrassed. Regardless,  they will go settle themselves down somewhere else.

6. Take a deep breath.

Know that all of this calmness comes from a place of taking a deep breath. It may not fix absolutely everything in the universe, but it is fundamental to being gracious, to behaving graciously, and even to thinking graciously. Because if you are breathing shallowly with a tight chest and throat, you’re not getting enough oxygen for your brain to even be functioning at its best.

Take huge, deep breaths before you respond in any way to anybody.

7. Engage in something positive.

Find a new activity even for just a minute to save the grace for holiday family gatherings! In fact, if you can plan ahead before you go to your get-together.

Your kids can make pleasant, engaging conversations with the older family members by asking them to tell their life stories. What was it like in the old days?

By doing this, your teens could log this down as history too! Engage the older ones in storytelling or bring some cards and play a card game. Do things that keep people from just sitting down. This will help lessen any anxiety in the air, and it will create positive engagement experiences.

8. Understand that relationships are more important than opinions.

It helps us grow in grace when we recognize relationships are more important than opinions. God has those beautiful, strong relationships in place, and family is vitally important. Therefore, recognize those relationships are not worth losing over opinions, even over opinions that you hold very dearly. 

Simply agree to disagree – you’re going to be family at the end of the day. You can overlook lots of other things and still respect them as an individual.

9. God and grace.

God and grace brings it all home. You can tell your teens:

Sometimes in life, you’re going to need to intentionally do something to facilitate relationships being protected and strengthened. And it is worth it. It’s worth it every time. 

Having grace for holiday family gatherings is a good time for your kids to learn life skills, which as we said, you can even log as a couple history hours while you’re at it! 

BTW- If you want to keep up some of the homeschooling during the holidays, check this post.

Thanks to Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for transcribing this episode.

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The post Grace for Holiday Family Gatherings- Special Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey.

Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of homeschooling, finding fresh ways to engage high schoolers in language arts can feel like searching for the Holy Grail. Teens often face a range of challenges when it comes to literature: finding the material relevant, staying engaged, and, let’s be real, battling the lure of screen time. 

This week Vicki chats with our friend Dachelle McVey, the visionary behind Literary Adventures for Kids. Her approach has not only redefined how we think about language arts but has also transformed it from a solitary, often isolating subject into an exciting, social experience. Listen to Dachelle’s story about social language arts. It’s a game-changer for homeschool families everywhere!

About Dachelle McVey

Dachelle McVey’s journey into the world of innovative homeschooling started in the most relatable way possible: necessity. 

As a homeschooling mom herself, she noticed something troubling—her teens, who once devoured books, were beginning to see literature as a chore. The spark that once lit up their eyes when cracking open a new story was dimming, and she was not about to let it fizzle out.

Traditional language arts curricula were missing the mark for her family. The rigid structure, uninspired materials, and lack of connection were not meeting her teens’ needs. So, like many determined homeschooling parents, she took matters into her own hands. 

She began crafting her own curriculum—one that blended creativity, community, and literature. This passion project grew into Literary Adventures for Kids, a comprehensive interactive language arts curriculum that does not just teach, it invites learners to explore, connect, and rediscover the joy of stories.

One of the cornerstones of Dachelle’s philosophy is flexibility

As we 7Sisters always say: There’s not ONE right way to homeschool, and Dachelle exemplifies that in her own family. 

Each year, when planning their homeschool year her family reassesses their educational goals, deciding what is best for each child. Sometimes that means continuing to homeschool; other times, it means incorporating traditional schooling. 

This willingness to adapt ensures that her children’s education is always tailored to their unique needs—a vital takeaway for parents navigating their own homeschooling journey.

What is Social Language Arts?

At the heart of Dachelle’s program is the concept of socializing language arts, and honestly, this idea is brilliant. 

It all started when her daughter expressed the need for more social interaction while homeschooling. That simple request sparked a movement—one that would eventually redefine how her family, and countless others, approached language arts.

Dachelle began creating book clubs for her daughter and her friends

At the book clubs the kids could come together, dive into stories, and discuss them in a relaxed, engaging way. 

It was not long before she realized that this model could work for other homeschool families as well. Thus, the idea of incorporating book clubs and interactive activities into her curriculum was born.

Book clubs became the centerpiece of Literary Adventures for Kids. These are not your typical, stuffy book discussions either. Dachelle’s book clubs bring stories to life through activities, projects, and discussions that connect learners with the material on a deeper level. 

It’s not just about reading; it’s about experiencing literature. Students might compare themes from a classic novel to modern movies or explore poetry through creative projects. The result? Kids who might otherwise groan at the thought of analyzing Shakespeare are suddenly debating Hamlet’s decisions with genuine enthusiasm!

Reimagining High School Literature

Dachelle did not stop at making an interactive language arts curriculum fun for younger students—she also tackled the often-daunting world of high school literature. For teens, classic works can sometimes feel irrelevant or out of touch with their world. 

Recognizing this, Dachelle developed high school book clubs and courses that bridge the gap between traditional literature and modern media, making the book clubs the social aspect in her social language arts curriculum.

Imagine pairing Pride and Prejudice with a contemporary romantic comedy or using popular movies to unpack the themes of a classic play. By weaving in elements of pop culture, Dachelle makes classic literature feel fresh and relatable. 

Her interactive courses challenge students to think critically about the stories they read while keeping the process engaging and enjoyable. The goal isn’t just to teach; it’s to spark curiosity and help students see literature as something alive and dynamic, not just words on a page.

Why an Interactive Language Arts Curriculum Works

What makes Dachelle’s approach so impactful is the communal element she has introduced into a traditionally solo activity. 

Reading is often a personal experience, but by adding a social component, she has created a space where students can share ideas, challenge each other, and build a sense of camaraderie. 

It’s no longer just about finishing the book, it’s about engaging with the story and the people discussing it.

Dachelle’s approach creates opportunities for meaningful interaction and shared experiences, making learning more holistic and fulfilling.

Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey

Dachelle McVey’s thoughtful approach to homeschooling demonstrates that language arts can be both educational and enjoyable. Through her thoughtful integration of social interaction, creativity, and flexibility, she has made reading exciting again for countless families. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity and flexibility in homeschooling, offering valuable insights for parents seeking to inspire a love for learning in their children.

Join Vicki and Dachelle and be inspire with social language arts ideas!

Thank you for Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and for Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post!

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The post Social Language Arts with Dachelle McVey appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Create a Great Transcript Using Levels in 7Sisters Curriculum Special Replay.

Create a Great Transcript Using Levels in 7Sisters Curriculum

You’ve probably noticed that there is a LOT of difference in homeschool high schoolers. They have different:

• Interests
• Abilities
• Goals

Teens have different goals:

• Teens who are headed to competitive colleges or state universities, need competitive transcripts.
• Those who are headed to community colleges or smaller, less competitive colleges need solid transcripts.
• Teens who are headed into the workforce need life and career preparation more than competitive core classes.
• Those who needed remedial work needed to concentrate on that.

We also know that our teens have different interests. We need to put emphasis on the areas they want to explore by increasing the levels of their interest courses. Your teens probably cannot manage Level 5 every interest area, but you can choose some. Talk to your teen!

You can tailor the homeschool transcript to meet each individual needs by teaching courses at the “level” of your teen’s needs.

This doesn’t mean that you haven’t allowed them to face challenges. It simply means you are wise enough to find your teen’s sweet spot in education to have a well-rounded transcript with challenges in the appropriate areas for them. If you haven’t listened to Episode 116: What Are Levels on the Homeschool Transcript, be sure to catch up!

7Sisters Literature Guides include instructions for enjoying our popular Literature Guides at Level 1 (Remedial), Level 2 (Average), Level 3 (College Prep), Level 4 (Advanced), Level 5 (Honors). Each guide covers only one or two literature themes so we don’t kill the book. There is also vocabulary, a little background information, comprehension and inferential questions. Use higher levels for college bound teens who are English, Communications, History, Humanities majors. Use Level 2 for a workforce-bound teen, adapt by using questions as discussion rather than writing (see each Literature Guide for more Level 2 information). Level 1 (Remedial) is for teens with learning difficulties, so do the guides together choosing which questions and vocabulary are useful to them; also use adaptive technology for listening and writing.

Here is a complete list of electives from 7SistersHomeschool

Arts

A Successful Approach to Teaching Acting and Directing

Fine Arts for Non-artsy People

How to Direct a Homeschool Drama Camp

Lyric Writing

Career Choices

Early Childhood Education

Health and Fitness

Foundations of Physical Fitness

High School Health for the Whole Person

• Syllabus for High School Health for the Whole Person

Humanities

Philosophy in Four Questions

• Suggested Syllabus for Philosophy in Four Questions

Life Preparation

Career Exploration Textbook

• Syllabus for Career Exploration

Financial Literacy

• Syllabus for Financial Literacy

Speech 1: Public Speaking and Practical Life Skills

• Speech 1 Student Workbook (for co-op and group class students)
• Speech 1 Lesson Plans (for co-op and group class teachers)

Religion

Apologetics 101 (the first of sixteen free presentations)

• Syllabus for Apologetics
• Here’s more on why you should consider Christian Apologetics for your teen

Social Sciences

History and Philosophy of the Western World

• Suggested syllabus for History and Philosophy of the Western World

Human Development from a Christian Worldview

• Syllabus for Human Development
• Human Development Lesson Plans (for co-op and group class teachers)

Introduction to Psychology from a Christian Perspective

• Syllabus for Introduction to Psychology
• Lesson Plans

Want some more ideas? Check out these:

• Big List of Electives
• Electives You Probably Never Thought of
• History Electives
• Career Exploration Electives
• Five Must-Include Types of Electives
• How to Choose the Best Electives for Homeschool High Schoolers
• How to Create Social Studies Electives
• Turn a Cinematography Interest into an Elective Credit

Check out Cathy Duffy’s Review of American History Literature Bundle. It is in-depth and helpful.

Join Sabrina, Vicki and Kym for more details than you can capture in words here! Also, enjoy these posts:

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Create a Great Transcript Using Levels in 7Sisters Curriculum

The post Create a Great Transcript Using Levels in 7Sisters Curriculum- Special Replay appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Stress Management for the Holidays with Natalie Mack.

Stress Management for the Holidays with Natalie Mack

We know that stress can be a big issue, especially during the holidays, but even after the holidays, anxiety, depression, and the winter blues can creep in. Let’s talk about ways to manage these feelings and create a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for our families. Our friend and Cousin Natalie Mack shares tips for stress management for the holidays.

About Natalie Mack

Natalie has been a homeschooling mom for twenty-two years with five children, four have graduated from college while one is still homeschooling high school!

She is a retired Navy chaplain spouse and has a Master’s Degree in Education and Counseling. Natalie has worked in various fields such as drug and alcohol abuse, social work, and marriage and family therapy. Recently, Natalie has been leading the military outreach program for HSLDA. She also shares her wisdom at Natalie-Mack.com, where she offers some helpful freebies for homeschooling families.

Tip #1: Slowing Down and Embracing Fun

Homeschooling through the holidays can look completely different from “work, work work”! You can slow down with the schoolwork during the holidays and focus on creating fun experiences with your children. While it may be tempting to push through and maintain a rigorous academic schedule, remember that the academics will always be there. Take the time to enjoy holiday activities, bond as a family, and create lasting memories.

(Here’s a fun writing project about creating a Holiday Family Narrative, instead of typical academics.)

The picture-perfect moments we often see on social media or in magazines are not the reality of everyday life. Instead of striving for perfection, try embracing the joyful imperfections that come with family gatherings.

Remember the quote from GK Chesterton: 

Anything worth doing is worth doing badly. 

Learning happens in many different ways (including the developing a growth mindset during the ups and downs of imperfect celebrations).

Breathe and Relax

It may sound simple, but taking deep breaths and focusing on our breath can do wonders for managing stress. When we are feeling overwhelmed, our bodies flood with stress hormones, but the antidote is right there in the air. 

So, whenever you can, take a moment to pause, take a deep breath in, and slowly exhale. It helps chip away at those stress hormones and calms our nervous system. You can teach this technique to your teens as well!

Make Time for Field Trips

Take advantage of the unique field trip opportunities available during the holiday season. Many places offer special events and attractions during the holidays. 

Whether it’s visiting nature gardens with beautiful lights or driving along the boardwalk to see Christmas decorations, these experiences create lasting memories and provide valuable learning opportunities for your kids. Plus, they are just a lot of fun!

Field trips during the holidays are a fantastic way to bond as a family and create positive memories. Education an happen anywhere, and these experiences enrich our lives in so many ways.

Enjoy Holiday Books

Holiday-themed picture books are a great way to create a cozy and magical atmosphere during the season. They have a way of bringing joy and warmth to our hearts. Snuggling up together and reading these books aloud fosters a sense of togetherness and creates cherished memories. 

Explore book lists from resources like Read Aloud Revival and 7Sisters Homeschool to discover wonderful holiday reads. Visit your local library and pick up some holiday-themed picture books. Make it a tradition to read holiday books with your loved ones and let the joy and laughter fill your home.

7SistersHomeschool has a Literature Study Guide for A Christmas Carol. Not only that, we offer a Cinema Studies for Literature Learning Guide for A Christmas Carol, as well. This is a meaningful way to sneak in some no-busywork, meaningful education.

Organizational Tips

Organization can make a big difference in reducing stress during the holidays. (Hey, it’s okay if organization is not your strong suit.) You can learn the value of organization, especially during the holidays, from others, such as from our 7th Sister, Allison, who is a master at event planning. We turned her planning skills into a unit study for planning the Thanksgiving meal.

Some organizational tips from Allison:

Consider the flow of activities, such as setting up a buffet with silverware and napkins placed at the end to avoid juggling them while serving food. These small organizational adjustments can make a significant difference in reducing stress levels.

Do what you can to prioritize your to-do lists and let go of unnecessary tasks. Recognize that it’s impossible to do everything perfectly, and some things can be dropped without major consequences. 

Focus on what truly matters and be intentional about allocating your time and energy to activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Good holiday event planning is about finding what works for you and creating a sense of calmness amidst the busyness!

Stress Management for the Holidays with Natalie Mack

The holiday season should be a time of joy, togetherness, and relaxation. Follow these stress management tips for the holidays and then let us know how they helped you!

Find Natalie Mack at Natalie-Mack.com and lots of places through Linktree.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season filled with beautiful memories!

Thank you to Seth Tillman for editing and Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post!

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Why Teach Human Development in Homeschool High School? Special replay.

Why Teach Human Development in Homeschool High School?

When Vicki was in graduate school for counseling, she specialized Human Development. She loved it so much because as a mom, she was watching Human Development develop in her own kids! After all Human Development is the study of how people grown and change from womb to old age.

So, when her kids started to homeschool high school, she wanted them to have a Human Development course for their homeschool transcripts. She felt like it would be great life preparation, since it is likely that they would interact with people the rest of their lives and understand why people at different ages do different things would be helpful. It would help them understand their baby brother learning object permanence or their grandfather who always told the same stories over and over.

Unfortunately for Vicki, there was no high school Human Development text available to homeschool high schoolers, especially one from a Christian worldview. SO, what to do? In typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, Vicki wrote her own text! Also in typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, she wrote 7Sisters Human Development from a Christian Worldview text to cover the necessary scope and sequence but with no-busywork and readable (and enjoyable) by an average teen. Then, in typical 7SistersHomeschool fashion, she included instructions for leveling up to Honors credit in a meaningful way for the college-bound teens.

What is Human Development in Homeschool High School?

The study of the physical, cognitive, emotional and social changes that people experience as they grow from womb to old age.

• Human Development can be a Social Science credit (something that many college-bound teens will need for their homeschool transcript).
  • HD is a stand-out course (because so few teens take it) so it gives transcripts that “sparkle” that college admissions officers often like to see!
• Or Human Development can be a Life Skills elective for their homeschool transcript. (It is a great life prep course. Teens can actually use the things they learn throughout life!)

For instance, adolescents go through a cognitive process called metacognition. Metacognition is the ability to think about thinking. Metacognitive teens think about who they are, what they feel, what the believe and why things are what they are. When teens learn from their Human Development course that the metacognitive process they are experiencing is natural and normal, they can enjoy the process!

Also, Human Development learn their two-year-old siblings (or the kids they are babysitting) are stomping their feet and saying, “NO!” (Toddlers are going through the early stages of finding out they are individuals. They find out where their personhood “stops” by testing out “No!”

They also learn about why their parents push them to accomplish stuff (middle-aged parents are in the “generative stage”- needing to be productive).

Is Human Development a good course for homeschool co-op?

It sure is! Human Development can be a blast! Not only do homeschool high schoolers have the chance to learn and discuss what they are learning and experiencing in their own families, but there are so many fun things that can be done in the co-op setting.

For instance, homeschool co-ops can:

• Invite moms to bring their babies to class and discuss their pregnancies, delivery process (a favorite story of our local teens is our 7Sister Kym telling the story about finding out she was having twins when the twins were born!)
• Watch the babies and see how they interact and guess what they are learning and doing.
• Invite toddlers to class, provide them homemade clay or blocks and watch them play.
• Invite kindergarteners to class and do fun exercises together like walking on chalk lines or hop on one foot. Give them crayons and watch them draw.
• Invite grandparents to come and talk about their lives: adventures, parenting their own kids, what they are doing now.

Homeschool co-ops are also a wonderful place to allow teens to present projects they have done related to things that interest them about Human Development.

Hey, did you know that we will provide a homeschool co-op discount for Human Development from a Christian Worldview and all our texts?

Also, you can find lesson plans for co-op teachers and a suggested syllabus for your homeschool co-op classes.

Is 7SistersHomeschool’s Human Development from a Christian Worldview a preachy text?

No way! Teens do not need to be preached at! However, the idea that God created people is implied through the text.

Join Vicki for an informative chat about her favorite subject: Human Development!

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This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Soft Skills and Leadership Training with Ignite4Impact.

Soft Skills and Leadership Training with Ignite4Impact

Want to give your teens some biblically based soft skills that build compassion and leadership skills? Join Vicki and Michelle Koles of Ignite 4 Impact to discuss ways her program equips them to be the world-changers of the next generation.

Vicki met Michelle Koles at the digital Homeschooling Teen Successfully Summit and was excited to find someone who had a full program  that develops social skills, compassion skills and leadership skills. These are ALL vital skills that our teens need for their own success personally. Not only that, homeschoolers need these skills so that they can fully take their place in the world after they graduate.

About Michelle Koles of Ignite4Impact

Michelle holds a Master’s in Education, Special Education Leadership and Teaching. She has been in education for twenty-five years. She has done lots of things in education over the years. For instance, she ran a Montessori school when her oldest child was young and taught college classes.

Her oldest child

Michelle’s first born was bright and curious, so at two years old, she started teaching him at home, reading and, and letters and different things. They also loved going on field trips together. This gave Michelle an early taste of homeschooling!

The next two children changed the story

Then Michelle and her husband adopted two kids. One of these children had medical problems and fetal alcohol syndrome. He was having a big struggle in middle school, made worse by his medical problems affecting his learning and abilities.

Finally, Michelle said, “enough is enough. We can’t do this anymore. I’m just gonna homeschool him!”

Homeschooling has been going great for Michelle and her son! Like many of us homeschooling parents, we find that our teens can get a lot done! Not only that, but he’s learning so much and at a much (as many people realize) at a much faster and easier pace.

Now, her son your son goes with her when she teaches at a local homeschool organization. So homeschooling and homeschool-community involvement kind of just happened. As Michelle says, “you know, like God directing your path!”

Michelle’s program, Ignite4Impact

Ignite 4 Impact came out of work she was doing with her son and the local homeschool community. She saw the need for soft skills compassion skills and leadership skills not only with her son and his friends but also, her husband saw deficits in these skills in the young college students he was hiring at his job.

Michelle noticed that it is not difficult teach young people how to do the job. However, it is harder to teach them skills like:

• being flexible
• being on time
• time management
• working together as a team
• problem solving
• thinking on your feet

In fact, research shows that “85% of job success is related to having well-developed soft skills and people skills”. (Cambridge University)

When young people loose their jobs in the first eighteen months of employment, it is not usually because they cannot handle the actual job. Rather, it is because they are coming in late, making excuses for things, not working together well with colleagues.

So, during Covid lockdown, Michelle took the courses she was teaching her son and the local homeschoolers and created a digital program to teach, from a biblical viewpoint, about soft skills, compassion and leadership skills.

Soft skills and compassion skills in action

During Covid lockdown, Michelle and her son practiced soft skills and compassion skills in several ways:

They helped out their community by running errands for neighbors.

They brought coffee and snacks to overworked hospital staff. Because the hospital cafeterias were closed, so the staff did not have access to like snacks and coffee. So Michelle and her son did a fundraiser and with the help of a local coffee distributor and a local farm, dropped off goodies that helped keep the staff going during those hard times.

To celebrate her son’s sixteenth birthday, he wanted to host his own charity game tournament. So, he had these local mom pop businesses supporting his idea along with individuals who donated to the cause. Then, participants played the game all day long and learn how that whole process worked, learn how to talk to adults. He donated the proceeds to a special education program and the local food bank.

Ignite4Impact is born

Thus, with her (and her son’s) love and passion for service she created an online organization. Check out their mission statement:

Ignite4Impact helps young people learn and apply valuable soft skills to build a strong foundation for success. We provide lessons, activities and guides that will help your teens discover these skills. Our program gets teens into amazing team building lessons as they learn these skills to become effective teammates as they create and run project to make an impact on themselves and the world.

When they did the first big global program, eleven countries were represented

The teens in that first program were joined by experts from around the world. The young people learned soft skills as they were developing a meaningful project to make an impact. These teens created projects like:

• Helping communities that had a lack of electricity
• Creating sustainable composting to their community

The group program is now online and includes twelve modules

Each module has a different soft skill to develop.

• Teens start with a journal writing prompt with a Bible verse connection, followed by a discussion.
  • Teens learn that they are part of one body in Christ, how to be a leader and how to work with their heart.
  • Ignite 4 Impact’s key verse reminds teens that they are to be a light on the hill. To illustrate this idea, their logo is a candle light on the hill.
    • (In fact, Michelle’s fifteen year old and a friend designed Ignite 4 Impact’s entire brand package.)
• Next, teens in a group have fun with an icebreaker.
  • This is a game that they play that where they are learning the soft skill.
• Then, there is a discussion about what they learned
• Next, teens practice their soft skills as they work on building their service project from scratch.
• They also take a skills assessment and work on their spiritual gifts.
• At the end project the teens get together as a team or individuals to do a reflection.
  • They learn about how to do an effective reflection- they quickly reflect on what happened and discuss changes they would do next time

Click here for more information on the twelve-module program from Ignite4Impact.

Ignite4Impact has freebie activities to download!

Teens learn soft skills with these free, engaging activities! Michelle also has activities for younger children.

You can contact Michelle Koles

• at [email protected]
• Check out her Facebook page: Ignite4Impact

Give your teens some biblically-based, soft skills, compassion skills and leadership skills!

If you are looking for simple social skills for elementary-aged children, also check out 7SistersHomeschool’s Social Skills for Children.

Thanks to Seth Tillman for editing this episode!

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The post Soft Skills and Leadership Training with Ignite4Impact appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.