Educating Kids & Connecting Families with Christine Furman Christine Furman

Host Christine Furman delves into the rewarding, yet often daunting journey of homeschooling, in this week’s episode of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families." With a clear passion for education and an empathetic understanding of parental concerns, Christine dispels common myths and encourages parents considering the homeschool path. She offers reassurance and motivational insights, emphasizing that the capability to teach one's children is inherent in all parents.
Christine Furman addresses the common misconceptions and fears associated with homeschooling, such as doubts about personal teaching abilities and maintaining pace with the curriculum. Emphasizing the power of community, resources, and the natural teaching instincts of parents, she reassures listeners that homeschooling is a viable option for those who wish to be more involved in their children's learning experience. With anecdotes and practical tips, the episode serves as an inspiring guide for embarking on a homeschooling adventure with confidence and joy.
Quotes from today’s episode: 
 “You are building yourself up one day at a time, and I'm building you up right here alongside you." "Think about your kids from the time they were babies. Did you teach them how to walk? Did you teach them how to talk? What about potty training? All of these skills that they have to learn for life? You are the one that taught them those things." "What if we stop following what everyone else does and follow what our children need, what they need the most?" "I firmly believe in my decision to homeschool my kids and if this is the desire on your heart, I urge you to dig deep. Believe in yourself and the ability to teach your kids well." Takeaways:
Homeschooling is a deeply personal choice driven by the desire to spend more time with one's children and tailor the education experience to fit individual needs. Parents are inherently equipped to teach their children fundamental skills, with or without a formal teaching background. Education should focus on practical, real-life applications beyond the curriculum, encouraging children to develop a lifelong love of learning. Taking homeschooling one year at a hand allows parents to adapt to their child's learning needs and make adjustments without long-term pressure. Christine offers specific resources, like Eduplay Learning, to aid parents in their homeschooling journey and build a supportive community. Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected!    Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/

In this enlightening episode of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families," Christine Furman delves into the challenges and solutions around crafting summer schedules and mitigating mom guilt – common themes that resonate with many families as the school year concludes. Christine approaches these topics with the understanding that summer should be a time of fun and relaxation, yet the reality of ongoing responsibilities and work commitments still looms.
Christine outlines strategic methods for maintaining educational continuity for children during the summer, from setting up a structured daily routine to incorporating educational games and activities into leisure time. She emphasizes the importance of establishing expectations, solid communication with family members, and balancing work with quality family engagement. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, this episode serves as a guide for parents navigating the summer season while juggling various roles and responsibilities.
Quotes from today’s episode: 
"We have decided that we are going to set aside at least 1 hour a day where they're going to focus on their skills, they're going to read and practice their math facts." "Of course I want to get outside and pretend like I don't have any responsibilities and lay by the pool all day and just have a great time." "Maybe some quiet time, after lunchtime or whatever time you are able to work the best.” "So enjoy the moments. Enjoy the time. You are amazing. Your kids are amazing. They love you. Your spouse loves you. Tell them once in a while, too how much you appreciate them for all that they do." "Why did I start a business? Because I wanted to be home with them. Because I wanted to teach them. I wanted to be their teacher. I wanted to connect with moms around the world and let them know that they're not alone."  
Takeaways:
Establishing a summer schedule within the family can help balance work, education, and leisure, keeping children's skills sharp while also allowing for necessary relaxation and playtime. Allocating specific times for essential daily activities, such as piano practice and reading, can provide structure and encourage ongoing learning throughout the summer months. Seeking help, such as a mother's helper or coordinating with neighbors for playdates, can alleviate the workload on parents and create opportunities for focused work time. Setting boundaries with family schedules and discussing summer goals leads to a more harmonious and fulfilling season for both parents and children. Self-care for parents is crucial – taking time to recharge and expressing gratitude for one's family can mitigate feelings of guilt and improve overall well-being.  
Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected! 
Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/ 
 Mention you heard about the Academy from the podcast and receive a free gift. 
Connect on IG:
@mschristine.furman
@eduplaylearning
 

In this captivating episode of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families," host Christine Furman delves into the world of family road trips and the art of traveling with children. As a seasoned traveler herself, Christine shares a treasure trove of tips and tricks that have turned their lengthy family road trips into enjoyable and memorable adventures. The episode creates an inviting atmosphere for parents looking for guidance on how to best prepare for long car journeys with kids in tow.
Christine takes us through the evolution of road trips from her carefree twenties to the meticulously planned twelve-hour drives from Georgia to Pennsylvania with a car full of kids, snacks, and entertainment. Her anecdotes serve as a relatable backdrop for the practical advice she offers, expertly interspersed with memories and personal experiences. Insightful and engaging, the episode delivers advice that ranges from food choices to car activities and homeschooling on the go.
Quotes from today’s episode: 
"My number one job is to keep you safe. So I want you to think about that. Is it okay to distract mommy while she's driving?" "I've realized that more healthy snacks are better for us because it keeps us energized, it keeps us focused." "How can we turn all of this into teaching moments?" "They are completing their activities and their lessons for the day. So we didn't even lose a day of school because we're traveling, which I absolutely love." Takeaways:
Family Road Trip Planning: Successful road trips with kids rely on a mix of healthy snacks, engaging activities, and planning for contingencies such as extra clothes and essential toiletries. In-Car Entertainment: Creative games and activities, including 'What Am I?', road trip bingo, and trivia, can keep children occupied and make the time pass more quickly. Traveling and Homeschooling: Combining travel with education, Christine shares tips on integrating homeschool lessons into travel time, turning the journey into an opportunity for learning. Safety First: The significance of safe driving and creating an awareness of in-car behavior in children to ensure a smooth and secure journey. Making Memories: Viewing road trips not as a chore but as a chance to bond, create lasting family memories, and instill a love for travel in children. Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected! 
EduPlay Learning: Offers homeschooling support and learning resources. EduPlay Learning Summer Activity Kit: A kit specifically mentioned for kids aged two to seven, inclusive of activities and supplies. Educating Kids & Connecting Families Facebook Group: a community space for sharing additional tips and resources. Freebie for Listeners: A road trip bingo pack mentioned to be available in the Facebook group for those who join. Ensure you tune in to this and future episodes of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families" for more insightful discussions and invaluable tips to enrich your family's educational journey. Whether you're a seasoned road tripper or planning your first family adventure, Christine's guidance is sure to pave the way for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
 
Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/ 
 Mention you heard about the Academy from the podcast and receive a free gift. 
Connect on IG:
@mschristine.furman
@eduplaylearning
 

In this engaging episode of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families," host Christine Furman shares a variety of fun and educational activities to keep children entertained and intellectually stimulated during the summer months. From outdoor sports to classic games and family bonding, Christine's advice strikes the perfect balance between playtime and learning. She emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey of raising children, making the most of each day, whether it's packed with excitement or proves to be a bit overwhelming.
 
Christine's heartfelt recommendations resonate with listeners, as she combines her expertise in education with her personal experiences to offer practical tips for every family setup. Whether it's managing screen time, fostering creativity, or introducing kids to various sports, Christine's approach is all about enriching children's lives through engaging, diverse, and rewarding activities. This episode serves as a valuable guide for parents seeking to craft a memorable and productive summer for their children.
 
Quotes from today’s episode: 
"I encourage you to really enjoy each moment because it truly does go by so fast." "How do we want them to remember these moments? Full of fun, laughter, enjoyment, memories that are going to last forever." "They love us and look up to us every moment.” "Sometimes it's just a jumpstart. We need to help them think outside of the box and be creative and use their imagination because it's so important." "I do also know that I have seen in my own personal experience that when my kids aren't watching the screens, they have to be more creative with their time, and they start to use their imagination so much more."  
Takeaways:
Embrace each moment: Life with children is fleeting, so it's crucial to treasure the time spent with them and make lasting memories. Find balance in activities: Combine physical activities like sports or outdoor play with educational pursuits to keep kids' skills sharp during summer. Limit screen time: Encourage children to use their imagination and creativity through play rather than relying on digital entertainment. Be Intentional: Dedicate focused and uninterrupted time with kids to make them feel appreciated and deepen family bonds. Incorporate learning in fun ways: Use games and everyday activities as opportunities to teach and reinforce educational concepts outside traditional settings. Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected! 
😎 Are you looking for easy ways to keep your kiddos entertained and engaged this summer? Check out the EduPlay Learning Summer Activity Kit! It includes over 70 activities and ideas, engaging videos with Ms. Christine, all supplies and materials delivered to your door, community and endless moments to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/ 
 Mention you heard about the Academy from the podcast and receive a free gift. 
Connect on IG:
@mschristine.furman
@eduplaylearning
 

Welcome to an empowering and reflective journey with Christine Furman in episode 19 of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families." As Mother's Day nears, this episode stands as a heartfelt appreciation post for moms everywhere, addressing the efforts, struggles, and unseen battles they face. From the daily routines of managing family life to the emotional struggles that go unnoticed, Christine opens a window into the life of a mom, offering solidarity and encouragement.
Christine delves into the world of motherhood, acknowledging the variety of roles moms play, no matter whether they stay at home, work, homeschool, run a business or uphold a family while their partner serves in the military. She emphasizes the power of community in uplifting each other amidst challenges. Christine also highlights appreciating the mundane tasks by viewing them as blessings, and advocates for transparent communication between moms and their partners or family members to seek help and appreciation effectively.
Quotes from today’s episode: 
"You're doing hard things and you're doing them well." "We just lift each other up. We just continue to support each other, encourage each other, and say, "I see you." "I have been in many walks of these stages of life as a mom." "Let's change all of those negatives into positives and just really make it an uplifting situation." "We're here to highlight those strengths and the positives and recognize you for all the challenges that you face day in and day out." "We are a team and we're going to work together to ensure that everything runs smoothly." Takeaways:
Moms of all walks of life experience unseen struggles and deserve recognition and support for their hard work. Changing the mindset about daily chores from burdensome tasks to blessings can positively impact mental well-being. Communication with spouses about tasks and emotions is crucial for teamwork and reducing the feeling of doing everything alone. Asking for help and scheduling self-care are essential for maintaining balance and positive mental health. Structured communication with the whole family, including setting expectations and schedules, can help distribute responsibilities.  
Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected! 
Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/ 
 Mention you heard about the Academy from the podcast and receive a free gift. 
Connect on IG:
@mschristine.furman
@eduplaylearning
 

In this engaging episode of "Educating Kids and Connecting Families," host Christine Furman interviews a special guest — Erika Maddamma, Declutter Coach and owner of Sunny Spaces Organizing. They dive deep into the art of decluttering, discussing practical strategies for families to reduce the overload of possessions and streamline their living environments. Erika shares her journey into the decluttering profession and the importance of living an intentional life. She walks us through her insights on the psychological benefits of minimalism and the freeing sensation it offers. As well as emphasizing the need to set boundaries and be mindful of what comes into our homes. Erika also provides tips for organizing toys and explains the concept of toy rotation. She encourages listeners to take small steps and be consistent in maintaining an organized space. 
 
Quotes from today’s episode: 
"Pay it forward. Let somebody else use it [unwanted items]. Let somebody else have the joy of that item, and don't hold it all for yourself." — Erica Madama reinforcing the benefits of donating items. "We all have the ones way high up that, you know, you need a stepstool to get to. If your daily item requires a stepstool, it's not getting put back, right?" — Erica Madama discussing the importance of having practical and accessible storage solutions. "The other thing is our things were invented and created for people to use them, not to sit in your basement and collect dust." — Erica Madama on the purpose of possessions and using them meaningfully. "Your home should reflect what you want to feel. And most of the people that I meet do not want to feel chaos and stress." — Erica Madama on aligning your home environment with your desired emotional state. Takeaways:
Decluttering and organizing a space is an ongoing process that significantly impacts one's well-being and life satisfaction. Minimalism isn't about living with the bare minimum; it's about being intentional with what possessions you choose to keep. Setting clear boundaries for spaces, like using bins as a limit for toy storage, helps control the amount of clutter and teaches children how to manage their belongings. Toy rotation is a beneficial strategy to keep children engaged and ensure play areas are not overwhelmed with too many choices. Selling or donating items that are no longer needed can be gratifying and creates space for items currently in use.  
About the Guest: 
Erika Maddamma is a professional declutter coach and the enterprising owner of Sunny Spaces Organizing. Known for her Type A personality, she has a lifelong passion for organization and efficiency, which she has cultivated since childhood. Erika holds a history of organizing everything within reach right down to her own closet spaces. After college, her zest for organization led her to write a business plan for 'Erika organizes'. Post-college, Erika stepped into the corporate world, and her journey there included traveling the nation, selling baby car seats and strollers. However, it was her venture into motherhood that prompted her to take the entrepreneurial leap, starting her own business after feeling a pull to be more present in her child's life. Her business is now four years old and focuses on transforming cluttered homes into tidy spaces that promote more efficient and joyous living. 
 
Ways to get connected with Erika:
Sunny Spaces Organizing: sunnyspacesorganizing.com
Email: hello@livingsunny.com
Instagram and Facebook handles: @sunnyspacesorganizing
 
Thanks for listening! Let’s get connected! 
Join the Exclusive Facebook group - Educating Kids & Connecting Families to connect with Christine, access valuable resources, and connect with moms from all over the world. https://www.facebook.com/groups/educatingkidsconnectingfamilies/ 
For more information about the EduPlay® Learning Academy, visit https://christinefurman.com/welcome/ 
 Mention you heard abou