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. 2d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Jun 24

    Teaching Tough Subjects

    Have you ever wondered how you’ll teach subjects you don’t fully understand—especially as your children reach high school? You’re not alone, and you’re not expected to know everything. In this episode, Ginny and the team walk you through practical, realistic ways to handle “tough subjects” with confidence and peace. ---------------------------------------- Show Notes: At some point, every homeschooling parent faces this question: What happens when I can’t teach the material? The good news is—you don’t have to panic. This episode will help you take a calm, step-by-step approach, using the many resources available today to support both you and your child. 1. TAKE IT ONE YEAR AT A TIME It’s easy to worry about subjects your child hasn’t even reached yet. - Focus on the year in front of you - Trust that solutions will be available when needed (This is key: today’s challenges are enough—don’t borrow tomorrow’s.) 2. START WITH TRUSTED SOURCES Before looking elsewhere, check the curriculum you already use. - Many programs include detailed instructions and support - Publishers often provide videos, guides, and lesson plans - Don’t hesitate to call a counselor (You already trust these sources—let them help you.) 3. BE WARY OF SOCIAL MEDIA When you feel stuck, it’s tempting to ask online—but this can overwhelm you. - Too many conflicting opinions - Advice from people you don’t know or trust - Can lead to confusion instead of clarity (Hint: ask one trusted, experienced homeschool mom instead.) 4. USE FREE ONLINE TOOLS WISELY You don’t need to be an expert to introduce a subject well. - Geography videos bring the world to life - Science visuals make concepts engaging - Music, art, and even drawing can be learned online (These resources are often free—and surprisingly effective.) 5. EXPLORE STRUCTURED SUPPORT FOR HIGH SCHOOL As subjects become more advanced, it’s okay to bring in help. - Affordable or free online courses - Use them alongside your main curriculum or independently - Great for math, science, and foreign languages (This is key: you are still guiding the education—even when others help teach it.) 6. CONSIDER COMMUNITY OPTIONS You don’t have to do this alone. - Homeschool co-ops with skilled parents - “Pod” learning groups with shared teaching - Parents pooling resources for tutors - Look for strengths in your community - Be thoughtful about content and alignment (Working together can lighten the load for everyone.) 7. LOOK AHEAD TO DUAL ENROLLMENT Older students may be ready for college-level work. - Take classes that count for both high school and college - Available locally or online - Can build confidence and momentum (Finally, always check with your homeschool program before enrolling to ensure credits are accepted.) Final Encouragement You don’t need to have all the answers to be a good homeschooling parent. Your role is not to know everything—but to guide, support, and seek out what your child needs. With today’s resources and a steady, faithful approach, you truly can do this. Homeschooling Resources: Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  6. Jun 10

    How to Be the Most Effective Homeschool Teacher

    Do you ever feel like you need better tools to become a more effective homeschool teacher? You’re not alone—and the good news is, small shifts can make a big difference. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical teaching skills that bring more peace, clarity, and confidence to your homeschool day. Show Notes: Homeschooling isn’t just about curriculum—it’s about developing the habits and skills that make learning flourish in your home. If your days have felt rushed, frustrating, or scattered, this episode offers simple, powerful adjustments that can transform your teaching and your child’s experience. 1. LISTEN MORE THAN YOU TALK Instead of explaining everything, invite your child to narrate. * “Tell me what you remember.” * “What stood out to you?” * “Why do you think that happened?” This is key: narration builds understanding far better than constant instruction. 2. ASK BETTER QUESTIONS Move beyond yes-or-no questions. * “What confused you?” * “What surprised you?” * “What would you have done?” Open-ended questions develop thinking—not just recall. 3. MASTER YOUR OWN CALM Your emotional tone shapes the entire learning environment. * Step away if needed * Take a breath, say a prayer * Return with calm clarity Calm is a superpower—and it keeps learning alive. 4. SIMPLIFY YOUR APPROACH More curriculum does not mean better education. * Focus on core subjects * Cut what isn’t working * Leave room for reading and discussion Hint: teach what you can do well, not what looks impressive. 5. OBSERVE YOUR CHILD CLOSELY Pay attention to how your child learns. * When does attention fade? * When do they light up? * When does resistance signal confusion? This is key: observation helps you teach the child, not just the subject. 6. MODEL CURIOSITY You don’t need to have all the answers. * “Let’s look that up.” * “That’s a great question.” * “I hadn’t thought of it that way.” Learning alongside your child teaches them how to think. 7. CREATE A DAILY RHYTHM Structure brings peace and predictability. * Morning read-aloud * Quiet work time * Afternoon movement * Weekly nature walks Children thrive when they know what to expect. 8. ALLOW PRODUCTIVE STRUGGLE Don’t rush in to solve every problem. * “What have you tried?” * “What could you try next?” Finally, perseverance may matter more than perfect answers. 9. PROTECT WONDER Especially in younger years, cultivate a sense of beauty and awe. * Read rich, meaningful books * Spend time outdoors * Explore art and creation Wisdom begins with wonder. 10. KEEP LEARNING YOURSELF A growing parent creates a growing homeschool. * Read, think, and stay engaged * You don’t need expertise—just presence Your example sets the tone for your entire home. A Final Encouragement You don’t need to overhaul everything to become a more effective homeschool teacher. Small, intentional changes—listening more, simplifying, staying calm—can transform your days. God has placed you in this role with purpose, and with His grace, you are more capable than you think. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  7. May 27

    What to Do if a Kid Hates a Subject

    What do you do when your child simply hates a subject—and nothing seems to help? You’re not alone, and this struggle is more common than you might think. In this episode, Mary Ellen and Ginny are here with practical, faith-filled strategies to help you guide your child through resistance while building responsibility, cheerfulness, and perseverance. Show Notes: Every homeschooling parent eventually faces this moment: your child resists a subject with everything they have. It can be frustrating and discouraging—but it’s also an opportunity to teach something deeper than academics. In this episode, you’ll learn how to address the struggle with wisdom, creativity, and calm confidence. 1. BUILD CHEERFUL HABITS EARLY Before tackling resistance, lay the foundation. * Teach children to do difficult things cheerfully * Model this in your own daily tasks * Encourage gratitude and responsibility This is key: attitude is learned long before resistance appears. 2. KEEP A CONSISTENT SCHEDULE Children thrive when they know what to expect. * Start school at a consistent time * Use a predictable routine * Tackle difficult subjects first Hint: “Get it done early” reduces stress for everyone. 3. REMOVE DISTRACTIONS WITHOUT DRAMA *When a child resists, avoid power struggles. * Calmly remove screens or distractions * Don’t argue or negotiate endlessly * Return privileges when cooperation improves Firm, quiet action is more effective than raised voices. 4. LOOK FOR THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM Sometimes resistance signals a real difficulty. * Delayed skills (like handwriting coordination) * Frustration from struggling to succeed * Learning differences or developmental timing * Try simple adaptations:  * Whiteboards or chalk instead of paper  * Alternate ways to complete work  * Break tasks into smaller steps This is key: not all resistance is disobedience—some is struggle. 5. USE MOVEMENT AND BREAKS A restless child is often a resistant child. * Schedule regular outdoor recess * Encourage physical activity between subjects * Avoid long periods of sitting Movement can reset both mood and focus. 6. SPARK INTEREST THROUGH REAL LIFE Bring subjects to life whenever possible. * Visit museums, zoos, libraries, or nature trails * Connect lessons to real-world experiences * Use local resources—even in small communities When curiosity is awakened, resistance often fades. 7. CONNECT LEARNING TO THEIR INTERESTS Meet your child where they are. * Choose books about topics they love * Use media (wisely) to enrich lessons * Incorporate hands-on learning * Examples:  * Gardening for science  * Cooking for nutrition  * Drawing star maps for astronomy Finally: interest opens the door to effort. A Final Encouragement Not every subject will be loved—but every challenge can be fruitful. With patience, creativity, and a steady example, you can help your child grow not just in knowledge, but in character. These moments are shaping habits that will last a lifetime—and you are exactly the guide your child needs. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

  8. May 13

    The Wise Way to Pull Your Kids Out of School - and Start Homeschooling

    Thinking about pulling your child out of school and starting homeschooling—but unsure where to begin? It can feel overwhelming, especially if you're making the switch midstream.  In this episode, Mary Ellen and Ginny walk you through a calm, practical, and thoughtful approach to making your transition with confidence. Show Notes: Deciding to leave a traditional school setting is a big step—but it doesn't have to be chaotic or stressful. With the right approach, you can smoothly and confidently transition your family into homeschooling. This episode gives you clear, grounded guidance to help you begin well and avoid common pitfalls. 1. START WITH THE LAW Before anything else, understand your legal requirements. * Check your state laws through trusted sources * Follow what is required—no more, no less * Consider support organizations if needed This is key: clarity here removes unnecessary stress later. 2. LEAVE GRACIOUSLY Even if your experience has been frustrating, don't burn bridges. * Keep your explanation simple and positive * Avoid criticizing the school or staff * Preserve relationships when possible A peaceful exit keeps doors open and relationships intact. 3. STAY CONNECTED TO COMMUNITY Homeschooling doesn't mean isolation. * Maintain friendships with school families * Host simple get-togethers * Stay active in parish or local life Hint: strong relationships support both you and your children. 4. KEEP KIDS ENGAGED OUTSIDE THE HOME Your children still need healthy social outlets. * Sports, dance, theatre, or clubs * Community-based activities * Opportunities to build friendships Busy, engaged kids are happier—and often more cooperative. 5. FIND YOUR HOMESCHOOL COMMUNITY You are not meant to do this alone. * Connect with local homeschool families * Check libraries, churches, and local groups * Use school networks if available This is key: the right community brings encouragement and practical help. 6. DON'T OVERCOMMIT YOUR FIRST YEAR It's tempting to say yes to everything—but resist. * Limit co-ops and outside activities initially * Focus on establishing your homeschool rhythm * Add more later as you gain confidence Finally, less is often more in your first year. 7. CHOOSE CURRICULUM WISELY Start simple and avoid overwhelm. * Don't rely on endless social media opinions * Consider a structured home study program * Adjust over time as you learn what works You don't have to get it perfect—you have to get started. Final Encouragement Starting homeschooling may feel like a leap—but it's one you can take with peace and purpose. You don't need to have everything figured out on day one. With patience, thoughtful decisions, and trust in God's guidance, you can build a strong and joyful learning environment for your family. Homeschooling Resources Seton Catalog - Free Seton Home Study School Seton Testing Services

See All (113)

4.9
out of 5
87 Ratings

About

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.

Information

You Might Also Like