The Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast

Seton Home Study School

Join Mary Ellen Barrett and Ginny Seuffert, two leading speakers and writers on the topic of Catholic education, as they discuss ways in which Catholic parents can find success in their homeschooling journey.

  1. 5d ago

    Farewell for Now - A New Chapter: Thank You, Ginny!

    After four wonderful years of conversations, encouragement, and practical advice for Catholic homeschooling families, the Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast is entering a new chapter. In this special episode, Mary Ellen Barrett shares bittersweet news: her longtime co-host, dear friend, and colleague, Ginny Seuffert, is retiring from Seton Home Study School after decades of dedicated service.   Show Notes: Mary Ellen reflects on Ginny's extraordinary contributions to Catholic homeschooling, the friendships formed along the way, and the many families whose lives she has touched. She also explains why the podcast will be taking a pause, shares her gratitude for everyone who helped make it possible, and offers encouragement about what may lie ahead. As this chapter comes to a close, the mission of supporting and encouraging Catholic homeschooling families remains as important as ever. In This Episode - Celebrating Ginny Seuffert Ginny's decades of faithful service to Seton Home Study School, beginning around 1989.Her tireless work helping Catholic parents create successful, faith-filled homeschools.The countless families she has encouraged through conferences, personal conversations, and practical advice.Mary Ellen's appreciation for Ginny's friendship, mentorship, and lasting influence on her own homeschooling journey.Ginny's plans to enjoy retirement surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and growing family.What's Next for the Podcast? Why Mary Ellen has decided to pause the podcast following Ginny's retirement.A look back at four years of conversations, friendship, and encouragement for homeschooling parents.The possibility of new projects and opportunities in the coming months.How listeners can continue enjoying the podcast's extensive archive of past episodes. With Heartfelt Gratitude Mary Ellen offers special thanks to the people and organizations whose dedication made the podcast possible: Seton Home Study School, for sponsoring and supporting the podcast throughout its four-year run.Jason Loughry, producer, engineer, and editor, whose technical expertise brought each episode to life.Jim Shanley, for coordinating scripts, notes, and the many details behind each episode.Beth Egan, social media manager, for creating the graphics and promotional materials that helped reach listeners.Seton Testing and the Newman Guide Colleges, for sponsoring, encouraging, and contributing. Most importantly, Mary Ellen thanks the listeners whose messages, questions, friendship, and prayers have made the podcast such a joyful experience. Keep Listening! Although new episodes are on pause, the Stay-at-Homeschooling Mom Podcast archive remains available. Explore years of conversations filled with practical homeschooling advice, Catholic encouragement, parenting insights, and inspiration for family life. Listen to past episodes: https://www.setonhome.org/podcast/ You can also find episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other major podcast platforms. Stay Connected Mary Ellen welcomes your questions, encouragement, and messages through social media, including Facebook and Instagram. Please join us in praying for Ginny as she begins this well-deserved retirement. May God bless her with many happy and fruitful years surrounded by the family she loves. And stay tuned! Mary Ellen hopes to share more news in the coming months. Thank you for four wonderful years of listening, learning, and growing together in our Catholic homeschooling community. God bless your families! More from Practical Advice from Ginny: Ginny Seuffert's Five-Volume set, Ginny affirms, with humor and good sense, that homeschool children have teachers who love them more than anything in the world, from Seton Press. A Ginny Sampler: The Secret to Teaching History at Home 4 Compelling Reasons to Graduate from High School Why Our Family Carries Forth the Homeschool Tradition - by DIL Liz Seuffert

  2. Oct 7

    The Five C’s of Discipline

    “My children just wouldn’t listen to me.” It’s one of the most common concerns parents have about homeschooling. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share the Five C’s of Discipline—and three practical ways to put them into action to bring greater peace, order, and cooperation to family life. Show Notes: One of the most common reasons parents give for not homeschooling is, “My children just wouldn’t listen to me.” It’s also one reason homeschool families become discouraged. The problem may be described as lack of motivation, constant battles, or difficult school days, but often the real problem is simpler: the home has become chaotic, and Mom is exhausted. The Five C’s offer a practical place to start. 1. CLARITY Children need to know the rules. Bedtimes & ChoresTable mannersHow we speak to one anotherWhat behavior is unacceptableAnd yes, sometimes rules have to be invented on the spot: Don’t ride the dog. Don’t stick things in electrical sockets. This is key: Children can’t follow expectations they don’t understand. 2. COMMUNICATION Talk about rules and consequences before problems arise. Consequences should be: ClearReasonableSomething you can actually enforceTalk about how behavior affects the family, but don’t get trapped in endless arguments. Remember: You do not have to debate every family rule. 3. CONSISTENCY This may be the hardest one. Once children discover that enough complaining will make you give in, you have a problem. Whenever possible, Mom and Dad should decide consequences ahead of time. 4. CARING Discipline should not be driven by anger. If you need time to calm down, take it. Then return to the situation and deal with it reasonably. Ask what happenedListenCorrect the behavior - Allow for repentanceThis is key: The goal is not merely to punish bad behavior. It is to form good habits. 5. CREATE RESPONSIBILITY As children grow older, explain why rules exist. Help them understand: Good habits bring freedomSelf-control makes life easierTheir actions affect other peopleRespect for parents is grounded in the Fourth CommandmentA strong religious education helps children understand that family rules are not simply Mom and Dad making life difficult. 6. CONNECT THE CONSEQUENCE The best consequences are often connected to the behavior. Misbehave at dinner? Leave the table.Fight over television? The television goes off.Misbehave at Mass? Practice sitting quietly at home.Hint: A logical consequence often teaches more than a long lecture. 7. DON’T DISCIPLINE IN ANGER Sometimes Mom needs a moment before responding and that’s okay. Send the child to another room, collect yourself, and then deal with the situation calmly. Discipline is about instruction and learning—not simply punishment. 8. FORM HABITS FOR LIFE Discipline is much more than getting through today’s math lesson or stopping a sibling fight. You are helping your children develop: Self-controlResponsibility and RespectGood habits and moral characterA Final Encouragement Discipline doesn’t have to mean constant conflict. Clarity, communication, consistency, caring, and responsibility can gradually change the culture of your home—and help your children develop habits that will serve them for a lifetime. Homeschooling Resources: Discipline That Lasts a Lifetime — Dr. Ray Guarendi Make Your Bed — Admiral William McRaven Atomic Habits — James Clear Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  3. Sep 16

    Using Independent Study to Build Your Transcript

    Does your high school student take courses outside the standard curriculum?  In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen explain when outside study belongs on a transcript, what records you should keep, and how to simplify documenting independent study courses. Show Notes: Isn’t homeschooling high school tough enough? Why would anyone want to ADD courses to an already busy schedule? Sometimes, you have a very good reason. Your student may be studying advanced math, taking college classes, pursuing the fine arts, or learning a language outside the standard curriculum. When that happens, you need to know what belongs on a transcript and how to document it. 1. KNOW WHEN RECORDS MATTER Elementary enrichment usually doesn’t need to appear on a transcript. High school credit is different. Algebra I taken in eighth gradeCollege or online courses, foreign language studyFine arts training or courses required by a state or collegeThis is key: If you want high school credit, keep records. 2. CHECK YOUR SCHOOL’S RULES Before designing an outside course, check with your home study school. Will the course count toward graduation?Can it replace a required course?Does it need prior approval? And what documentation will be required?Seton offers an Independent Study approval process for qualifying outside coursework. 3. GET APPROVAL EARLY Don’t assume an outside course will automatically satisfy a graduation requirement. A community college science course, online language class, or other program may be excellent—but your school may have specific requirements. Remember: Approval is much easier to obtain before the course is completed than after. 4. THINK ABOUT THE FUTURE If your student has an idea of where he or she may pursue further education, investigate admission requirements early. Requirements can vary for: CollegesConservatoriesState universitiesSpecialized programsThose requirements may influence the courses your student should take now. 5. RECORD THREE BASIC THINGS A simple course record should include: Course nameMaterials or outside classes usedGrade earnedFor example: Algebra I — Saxon Algebra I — 92 That may be all you need for a straightforward academic course. 6. DOCUMENTING UNUSUAL COURSES Some courses require more explanation. A fine arts course might include: Weekly lessons and daily practiceVoice lessonsChoir and theatre rehearsals and performancesInclude schedules, teacher evaluations, grades, programs, or other evidence when helpful. Hint: Give administrators enough information to understand what your student accomplished. 7. FULL OR HALF CREDIT? As a general rule of thumb: A full-credit course requires about five hours of coursework per weekA half-credit course may require about three hours per weekKeep enough records to show that the course was substantial. 8. KEEP THE FUTURE IN MIND We may homeschool as if our children will always be learning at the kitchen table. They won’t. Eventually, they may: Apply to collegeEnter a conservatoryTransfer schools or pursue other opportunitiesFinally: A little planning and recordkeeping will simplify your student’s next step. A Final Encouragement Transcripts don’t have to be complicated. Know what your student needs, check requirements early, document outside coursework, and keep good records. You’ll be glad you did. Homeschooling Resources Seton Independent Study A Blank, Fillable Homeschool Transcript Form from Southern Utah University Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  4. Sep 4

    Homeschooling with Teens

    Homeschooling teenagers brings new freedoms—and new challenges. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical advice for helping teens manage schoolwork, use technology wisely, and gradually take responsibility for the choices that will shape their lives as adults. Show Notes: Laurie contacted us on Facebook and asked for advice about homeschooling teens. Since both of us homeschooled children through high school graduation, she came to the right place. The teen years will be much easier if you start preparing before those pesky hormones arrive. 1. ESTABLISH AUTHORITY EARLY You don’t need to be mean or harsh. But you will never regret teaching your children obedience and respect. Set reasonable rules and expect respectful behaviorTeach self-controlFollow throughThis is key: Teenagers don’t suddenly develop self-discipline on their thirteenth birthday. 2. TEACH PRACTICAL SKILLS Before high school, children should already be contributing to family life. Load the dishwasher and do laundryVacuum and mopMow the lawn and wash the carAs they get older, encourage them to take ownership of household responsibilities. Hint: You may begin to see your teenager as a contributing member of the family. 3. EXPECT COURTESY Modesty matters—but so does how teenagers speak and behave. Teach them to say: Please and thank youDo you mind?How can I help?Teenagers should also understand that younger siblings are watching them. 4. HAVE AN ACADEMIC PLAN Teenagers should take increasing responsibility for their schoolwork, but they still need a plan. Set timelines and make expectations clearCheck progress regularlyWatch subjects they tend to avoidIt is very easy for a teen to work on favorite subjects and suddenly discover in May that chemistry or English is barely started. 5. CHECK IN REGULARLY Independence does not mean no oversight. Set a regular time to review: What has been completed and what is falling behindWhat needs more attentionWhat deadlines are comingRemember: Teens tend to work on the subjects they like first. 6. WATCH THE DEVICES Teens may need computers for assignments and phones for driving and GPS. But social media can be toxic. Use parental oversight tools and know what your children are usingEstablish device rulesConsider a family charging station at nightGood kids still need protection. 7. KEEP THEM BUSY A solid high school day still leaves plenty of time. Fill some of it with: Paid workVolunteer workSports, music, dance, theatreProductive activity helps teenagers develop skills, responsibility, and confidence. 8. DON’T ARGUE Even good teenagers will test the rules. Increasingly, they should experience the consequences of their own choices.  When Mom and Dad do need to step in, be clear and firm. Finally: Don’t waste hours arguing or trying to make your teenager admit that you are wise. You may be waiting a very long time. A Final Encouragement The goal of homeschooling a teenager isn’t to control every decision. It is to gradually prepare a young person to manage schoolwork, responsibilities, relationships, technology, and eventually life without you standing over his or her shoulder. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  5. Aug 20

    Homeschooling with Babies

    How do you homeschool when a baby needs your attention all day—or when that baby becomes a very busy toddler? In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical ways to adjust your schedule, use nap times, involve older children, get help, and keep homeschooling through the baby years. Show Notes: Annalise contacted us on Facebook with a pressing question: How can Mom homeschool when she has a baby who demands lots and lots of attention? She came to the right place. The first thing to remember is that homeschooling does not have to look like a traditional school day. 1. FORGET SCHOOL HOURS Young children do not need six hours of school. Work during napsK–3 may take only a few hoursUse weekends when necessaryFinish something after Dad gets homeThis is key: You do not need to recreate public-school hours at home. 2. ADJUST THE SCHOOL YEAR Homeschoolers do not have to follow a traditional school calendar. Having a baby in early January? - Extend Christmas break. Need more time later? - Take it. Remember: Nothing says you have to finish school by June 1. 3. TRY “BED SCHOOL” The first days and weeks after giving birth can be exhausting. Keep the baby nearby and do school from bed. Read aloud and do more work orallyUse a lap deskLet older siblings spend time with the babyYou can recover while keeping school moving gently forward. 4. KEEP BABY CLOSE When you’re ready to return to the table, keep the newborn nearby. Babies often enjoy watching family life. When the baby needs you, pick him up, feed him, and continue when you can. Hint: Babies often become accustomed to the normal noise and rhythm of family life. 5. ESTABLISH NAP TIMES Newborns sleep a lot. Try to establish predictable quiet times as early as you reasonably can. Nap schedules will change, but a dependable quiet period can make homeschooling much easier. And you may appreciate that routine even more when the baby becomes a toddler. 6. EXPECT TODDLER TROUBLE Frankly, newborns can be a piece of cake compared with toddlers. Once Junior becomes mobile, everything changes. Save special toys for school timeCall the blocks “schoolwork”Move lessons outside when weather allowsUse nap time for focused workRemember: This stage won’t last forever. 7. ROTATE THE OLDER CHILDREN Older siblings can help. One child can play with the toddler while you work with another. Then switch. Mom gets focused teaching timeThe toddler gets attentionOlder children learn responsibilityThis doesn’t mean turning older children into substitute parents. It means allowing family members to help one another. 8. GET HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT There is no disgrace in hiring a college student or homeschool teenager for an hour or two to take the toddler outside or to the park. Sometimes a little help can transform the entire day. Finally: And again, there is always nap time! A Final Encouragement Homeschooling with a baby—or a toddler—requires flexibility more than perfection. Adjust your schedule. Use nap times. Let older children help. Take breaks when you need them. Your homeschool may look different during this season, and that is perfectly fine. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  6. Aug 5

    Homeschooling Is NOT Just an Escape

    Did you begin homeschooling to escape a problem with traditional school? That may have brought you home—but it’s only the beginning. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen explore how homeschooling gives families the freedom to travel, learn, and discover opportunities far beyond the traditional classroom. Show Notes: Many families begin homeschooling when a local option isn’t working. The local school is a poor fit. Catholic school is too expensive or too far away. So, they bring their children home and immediately start looking for a co-op or hybrid school to replace what they left behind. But homeschooling is more than a safe alternative. Done well, it opens the world to your children. 1. MAKE TIME YOUR ADVANTAGE Homeschooling often takes less time than a traditional school day. Primary grades may take only an hour or twoMiddle school can often be finished by lunchtimeHigh school students can increasingly work independentlyA little planning may even make a four-day school week possibleThis is key: The goal isn’t to recreate a seven-hour school day at home. 2. USE YOUR COMMUNITY Your community may be full of educational opportunities. Zoos and museums - Planetariums and historic churchesHiking trails and county fairs - Libraries and local history museums4-H and homeschool programsGo with another homeschool family—or go with your own. Remember: You do not need to join a co-op to have a rich homeschool life. 3. TRAVEL WHEN OTHERS CAN’T Homeschoolers can travel during less crowded and less expensive times. Visit Washington, D.C., and its free museumsExplore state capitals and historic sitesCamp your way across the country - take advantage of national park programsEducation doesn’t have to stop because you left the house. 4. SCHEDULE LESSONS DIFFERENTLY The best piano, dance, art, or skating teacher in town may be booked after school. But what happens when you say, “My child can come at 10:30 on Tuesday morning”? Suddenly, there may be an opening. Hint: Your flexible schedule provides access many other families don’t have. 5. LOOK BEYOND SCHOOL SPORTS Your budding athlete may have more opportunities outside the local high school. Community sports leaguesLittle League or Pony LeagueClub and travel teamsAmerican Legion teams for advanced playersA school team has only so many spots. Look around for better opportunities elsewhere. 6. FIND OTHER STAGES The same is true for the arts. Community theatreDance academiesLocal music groups and church choirsSchool programs aren’t the only place for talented young people to perform. 7. MAKE TIME FOR WORK A job can teach lessons no textbook can. Show up and be on timeWork hard and put away the phoneBuild a good reputationStart with babysitting, mowing lawns, shoveling snow, or helping at church. Older teens may find work in restaurants, retail, offices, or local businesses. 8. LET THEM FIND THEIR TRIBE Children make friends in all kinds of places. Sports teamsMusic and dance lessonsChurch, work. the neighborhoodThere is nothing wrong with co-ops or hybrid schools. But don’t worry, your kids can find their tribe on the sports team, at their dance academy, or just in the neighborhood. A Final Encouragement Homeschooling may begin as an escape from something that isn’t working. But it can become much more: an opportunity to give your children a richer education, a more flexible life, and experiences they might never have found inside a traditional classroom. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  7. Jul 22

    Healthy Homeschool Moms

    Homeschool moms spend years caring for everyone else—but staying healthy matters, too. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical ways to eat better, move more, reduce stress, stay connected, make time for prayer, and ask for help so Mom can stay strong for the long race ahead. Show Notes: 1. EAT REAL FOOD People have plenty of opinions about the perfect diet, but nearly everyone agrees on one thing: cut back on processed junk food. Drink water instead of sodaCut back on boxed cakes, pies, and chipsServe simple fruits and vegetablesThis is key: Healthy food doesn’t have to be organic or expensive. A conventionally grown carrot is still healthier than candy—and water is practically free. 2. SERVE ONE FAMILY MEAL You don’t need to become a short-order cook because your children don’t like what’s for dinner. Serve one meal for the familyDon’t force children to eat everythingKeep fruit or vegetables available on the tableChildren in many parts of the world grow up eating the same foods as their parents. Our children can learn to do the same. Hint: Picky children are often more willing to eat foods they helped prepare. 3. MAKE LEFTOVERS YOUR FRIEND Yes, cooking takes time. But you don’t have to start from scratch every night. Cook enough for more than one mealTurn leftover meat into casseroles and bones and leftovers for soupLet older children help with food preparationOne turkey can become turkey with gravy, a fricassee, and turkey soup. A ham can provide dinner, a casserole, and pea soup. Remember: Leftovers are your friend. 4. MOVE EVERY DAY You don’t need a Peloton or a gym membership to stay active. Put the baby in a stroller and walkLet the older kids ride their bikesWalk the dog - Mow the lawnPlay badminton with the childrenGetting outside also lifts your spirits. Hearing the birds, seeing flowers bloom, and enjoying fresh air are good for both body and mind. This is key: Move. 5. MAKE MOVEMENT FAMILY TIME Exercise doesn’t have to be another item on Mom’s to-do list. Work in the yard - Take family walksPlay outdoor games togetherGive children age-appropriate choresYou’ll get some exercise, the children will learn useful skills, and everyone gets outside. Hint: Life skills can be part of your homeschool curriculum, too. 6. LOWER THE STRESS Homeschool life can feel overwhelming. You’re running a household, teaching children, driving to activities, and trying to keep up with everything else. Try simple ways to reset. Practice gratitude - Count your blessingsPlay a game - Take a rideDo something just for funThe work will still be there when you get back. Remember: A little recreation can help you return to your responsibilities refreshed. 7. STAY CONNECTED AND PRAY Too many of us can spend days inside our homes, order everything online, and have very little real human contact. Make time for friends and family - Chat with a neighbor - Talk with someone while waiting in lineLearn the names of people you regularly seeAnd make time for God. Pray the Rosary - Make a visit to churchTry to attend daily Mass sometimesBring your worries to prayerSmall conversations matter. So do quiet moments with God. 8. ASK FOR HELP You do not have to do everything yourself. Ask someone to pick up groceriesAccept help when it is offeredGive willing helpers a specific taskIf your mother-in-law asks what you want for Christmas or your birthday, maybe the answer is a few hours of paid cleaning help. Finally: When someone offers to help, let them. A Final Encouragement A healthy homeschool mom doesn’t need a perfect diet, an expensive gym membership, or a stress-free life. Start with simple habits: eat real food, move every day, get outside, stay connected, pray, and accept help when you need it. You’re running a long race. Taking care of yourself will help you stay strong and joyful for the family God has entrusted to you. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  8. Jul 8

    Tweens and Bickering 

    Are your tweens suddenly moody, argumentative, or constantly bickering with siblings? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen walk you through what’s really happening during these middle school years and give you practical, faith-centered tools to restore peace in your home. Show Notes: The tween years can feel like a sudden storm in your home—what once felt peaceful now feels tense and unpredictable. But this stage has meaning and purpose. In this episode, you’ll find practical ways to guide your children through these changes while maintaining order, respect, and even joy in your family life. 1. UNDERSTAND THE STORM Your child is changing rapidly—physically, emotionally, and mentally—and it’s overwhelming for them. * Bodies change before maturity catches up * New emotions feel confusing and isolating * Awkwardness and embarrassment are common This is key: much of the behavior you see is not defiance—it’s disorientation. 2. CHANNEL ENERGY PRODUCTIVELY Tween energy needs an outlet—or it will come out as conflict. * Sports, swimming, yard work, walking the dog * Physical activity helps regulate mood * Keeps their minds off internal struggles Hint: tired kids argue less. 3. GIVE REAL RESPONSIBILITY Tweens want to feel capable and grown-up—even if they don’t say it. * Cook meals, mow the lawn, do laundry * Learn practical skills like painting or car care * Take ownership of meaningful tasks When they feel useful, they feel confident—and confidence reduces conflict. 4. LIMIT DIGITAL INFLUENCE Unmonitored technology can quietly fuel discontent and comparison. * Keep devices out of bedrooms * Use a central “charging station” at night * Consider monitoring apps Even strong kids can be pulled into unhealthy online habits. 5. STOP BICKERING EARLY AND FIRMLY Peace in the teen years begins in early childhood. * Don’t entertain “he said/she said” * Remove the source of conflict immediately * Stay consistent and calm * Fighting over TV? Turn it off * Arguing over treats? No one gets it * Bickering in public? Leave This is key: when you mean business, they learn quickly. 6. BUILD A HOUSEHOLD OF PRAYER A peaceful home is not just managed—it is rooted in grace. * Say grace before meals * Begin the day with a morning offering * Pray the Rosary (even a decade counts) * Encourage Confession and, when possible, Mass Finally, prayer softens hearts—including yours and theirs. 7. MODEL THE BEHAVIOR YOU EXPECT Your tone sets the tone for your home. * Speak calmly, even when correcting * Give clear, respectful directives * Avoid responding emotionally “Jane, please go set the table.” “Billy, take time to calm down.” Your children are always watching how you handle conflict. A Final Encouragement These years can be messy—but they are also formative and full of opportunity. With patience, consistency, and grace, you can guide your children through this stage and even strengthen your family in the process. God has entrusted these souls to you—and He will give you what you need. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

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Join Mary Ellen Barrett and Ginny Seuffert, two leading speakers and writers on the topic of Catholic education, as they discuss ways in which Catholic parents can find success in their homeschooling journey.

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