Homeschooling For Catholic Parents

Maeve and Mat Jemison

You’re wondering if homeschooling is for you. But your inner critic is telling you you’re not enough. How can I teach my kid when we can’t get through homework without tears and yelling?  How would the daily routine look? What curriculum will you use? Your house is already a wreck. You don’t want to feel isolated, like you’re on an island where everyone wears long dresses and raises goats. Plus, aren’t homeschoolers weird? I am so excited you're here! This podcast will give you peace of mind as you raise successful adults who understand their Catholic faith and how to defend it. I’ll help you find the routine that works for you, you’ll still have community, if that’s what you want, and even a clean, organized home is possible (sometimes).  I’m Maeve Jemison, and I host this pod with my handsome husband, Mat. We’re Catholics who prioritize worship and apologetics through our homeschool journey with our five kids.   I’ve made many mistakes along the way. As a young adult, I left the Catholic church because I didn't understand what was going on. I was a government school graduate and high school teacher so I thought homeschooling meant replicating government school at home. (I was wayyyy off!) When I finally learned the depths and truths of Catholicism, I was adamant that I would teach my little cradle Catholics about the history and beauty of the religion that Jesus started. No way would my kids be as oblivious as I was. Our homeschooling became a delightful adventure, with the Lord guiding us in tailoring our children’s education. I knew I had found my calling!  If you’re ready to thrive as the domestic church through worship, apologetics and homeschooling, then this podcast is for you! Thanks for stopping by because home is where the truth is!

  1. 2D AGO

    108 - When Your Child Walks Away: St. Monica, Cycles of History & Catholic Hope

    Life is cyclical. History repeats. And sometimes… so do our parenting fears. In this vulnerable episode, Maeve shares her own “Confessions” — from SAT calculator panic and Florida’s Bright Futures scholarship pressure… to a much deeper confession about a child who has stepped away from the faith. Through the story of St. Monica and St. Augustine, the fall of Rome, and even a recurring lice invasion, we explore one powerful truth: God works in cycles.  History teaches.  Tears are never wasted. If you are praying for a child, wondering if your homeschooling efforts matter, or feeling the weight of eternity in the everyday — this episode is for you. “It is impossible that the child of so many tears should perish.” We are doing eternal work. Show NotesEpisode 105: Critical Thinking, Catholic Truth & the One Rule for AI in Your Homeschool 👉 maevejemison.com/105 Litany Of Humility  🔑 SEO Keywords Catholic homeschooling encouragementSt. Monica and St. AugustinePraying for prodigal childrenLife is cyclical ChristianityBright Futures Scholarship FloridaCatholic parenting vulnerabilityLitany of Humility family prayerRaising kids Catholic in modern cultureHistory repeats itself ChristianityConfessions of St. Augustine parentingIsn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    24 min
  2. FEB 15

    107 - Simple Phonics Help for Homeschool Moms with Melanie Jeffrey-Teach Your Child to Read Without Tears

    Teaching your child to read can feel overwhelming—even for experienced homeschool moms.  In this encouraging conversation, Maeve sits down with former literacy teacher and phonics expert Melanie Jeffrey, host of Phonics Rules for Kids, to talk about why many children struggle with reading and how simple, clear phonics instruction can change everything. You’ll learn: The best age to begin phonics instructionHow to help beginning, emerging, and struggling readersSimple 15-minute daily activities that actually workWhat to do when your child is stuck—or when you feel discouragedIf you’ve ever wondered, “What if I can’t teach my child to read?” This episode will replace fear with confidence and practical hope. Show Notes:  Published Feb. 15, 2026 🔗 Resources & Links Full episode page + all Melanie’s resources: 👉 https://maevejemison.com/107 Melanie’s website & phonics curriculum: 👉 https://phonicsrulesforkids.com Listen to the Phonics Rules for Kids podcast: 👉 https://phonicsrulesforkids.com/podcast ⭐ Enjoying the Podcast? If this episode encouraged you, would you take 30 seconds to: Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviewShare this episode with a homeschool friendSubscribe so you never miss an episodeYour support helps more Catholic families find hope and confidence in their homeschooling journey. Key Words: homeschool reading help,  teach child to read phonics,  phonics for homeschool moms,  struggling reader homeschool,  beginning reader phonics,  Christian homeschool reading,  Catholic homeschool podcast,  reading curriculum homeschool,  how to teach reading at home,  phonics activities for kids,  literacy skills homeschool,  Melanie Jeffrey phonics Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    33 min
  3. FEB 1

    105 Critical Thinking, Catholic Truth, and the One Rule for AI in Your Homeschool

    What does “critical thinking” actually look like in a Catholic homeschool? In this episode, Maeve and Matt unpack why critical thinking breaks down when we stop slowing down, questioning ourselves, and seeking truth with humility—and why Catholic families have a unique advantage when truth is the goal. Using a real-life conversation sparked by a “Friendly Defender Friday” question (“Do Catholics believe they alone possess the truth?”), they walk through how to help kids research, analyze Church history, and synthesize what they learn—without getting swept up in half-truths, internet hot takes, or AI doing the thinking for them. You’ll also hear: A simple, practical definition of critical thinking (and common blocks to it)Why debate and charitable conversation sharpen discernmentA clear “AI rule” for homeschool parents: don’t let AI learn for themHow Church history (heresy, councils, and hard questions) can become a training ground for truth-seekingAnchored in John 16:13, this episode is both a mindset shift and a hands-on guide for raising kids who can think clearly, love truth, and speak it with charity. Link to Last week's episode: 104 Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things. Keywords: Catholic homeschooling critical thinking skills Catholic education teaching kids critical thinking faith and reason Catholic apologetics for kids AI and education homeschool critical thinkingCatholic homeschooling critical thinking skills Catholic education teaching kids critical thinking faith and reason Catholic apologetics for kids AI and education homeschool critical thinking Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    27 min
  4. JAN 25

    104 - Do Not Despise the Day of Small Things: Finding God in Ordinary Homeschool Moments

    What if the most important parts of homeschooling aren’t the lessons you finish—but the moments you almost miss? In this episode, Maeve reflects on a simple prayer—“Lord, show me what’s important today”—and how God answered it through ordinary homeschool moments: a rare nap, a family heirloom quilt, a child’s honest question, and the quiet joy of watching children thrive. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic tradition, the wisdom of the saints, and Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophy, this episode reassures parents that the Holy Spirit is actively at work in everyday homeschool life. If you’ve ever wondered whether the small, repetitive moments of homeschooling really matter, this episode is an invitation to slow down, notice, and trust that God is forming something eternal in your home. SHOW NOTES Published January 25, 2026 Asking God to reveal what truly matters in homeschoolingFinding holiness in ordinary homeschool momentsThe spiritual meaning of heirlooms and generational faithWhy learning is sacred work inspired by the Holy SpiritSaints who remind us that God moves in daily lifeTrusting that God is at work even when no one seesScripture for Reflection Deuteronomy 6:6–7 “Take to heart these words which I command you today. Keep repeating them to your children. Speak of them at home and abroad, whether you are busy or at rest.”Quotes Referenced “Do not despise the day of small things.” (Zechariah 4:10)St. Teresa of Avila on God moving amid the pots and pansCharlotte Mason on the Holy Spirit as the true instructor of knowledgeEncouragement for Parents Homeschooling may feel ordinary, unfinished, or unseen—but God is forming heirlooms of faith in your home. The small moments matter more than you think. Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    18 min
  5. JAN 18

    103 - 20 Ways to Reset the Moment on Hard Homeschool Days

    Even the most beautiful homeschool days have a behind-the-scenes mess. In this episode, Maeve shares 20 practical, doable ways to reset the moment and turn around hard homeschool days—with faith, humor, and a healthy dose of realism (and maybe a little wine at the end). You’ll hear: Why praying in front of your kids mattersThe power of Holy Spirit hugs (yes, they’re a thing)Simple resets that work for preschoolers through high schoolWhy struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re doing it right✨ 20 Ways to Reset the Moment Pray in front of your childrenHoly Spirit hugs (6+ seconds!)Take a nature walkGo outside and sit on a blanketQuit the thing that’s causing the meltdownDeep breathing (5-7-8)Play a favorite song or praise musicRead a picture book aloudQuiet time (for kids and mom)Lock yourself away and cry it outHands-on tasks (Play-Doh, Legos, baking, organizing)Quiet reading timeRefreshments or ritual tea timePuzzle time or creative workDraw or colorTell a joke or read a joke bookRead a poem aloudCall your spouse and vent“Send them to the principal” (aka Dad)Plan a field trip  Bonus: Simple reward systems work wonders🔗 Links & Resources Episode page + printable list: maevejemison.com/103Photographer mentioned: Shey Marin (Perfect for DC cherry blossom sessions — tell her Maeve & Matt sent you)Join the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook group (to see the legendary Christmas card!)Isn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    21 min
  6. JAN 11

    102 Raising Lifelong Learners in the Faith — 10 Catholic Homeschool Tools We Love

    In this episode, Maeve and Mat share ten practical tools that have strengthened their Catholic homeschooling over the years — from faith-filled apps and saint resources to apologetics cards, family-friendly podcasts, and tech choices that support virtue. You’ll hear real-life stories from their home, how these tools have shaped their kids’ faith and confidence, and why small daily practices — like saint-of-the-day readings, friendly apologetics conversations, and intentional tech — can make a big difference in family life and discipleship. This one is equal parts helpful, encouraging, and a little bit hilarious (yes, including the sprinting Amazon driver and the middle-school group text thread). Episode notes, Published January 11, 2026 Catholic Apps & Digital Tools iMissal — Saint of the Day & Daily Readings https://imissal.com Laudate — Catholic Prayers, Rosary, Catechism & More https://www.ayckasoft.com/laudate Truthfully — Catholic AI Study & Reference Tool https://truthly.ai Books, Audio & Kids Resources 57 Saints — Catholic Biography Collection https://ignatius.com/57-saints-p2905/ Friendly Defender Flashcards (Catholic Apologetics for Kids & Teens) https://friendlydefenders.com Holy Heroes — Advent, Lent, Glory Stories & Faith Resources https://holyheroes.com Catechism & Faith Formation Catechism of the Catholic Church (Online Reference) https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_INDEX.HTM Catholic Answers — Apologetics Articles & Podcasts https://www.catholic.com Catholic Podcasts Mentioned Catechism in a Year — Fr. Mike Schmitz https://ascensionpress.com/pages/catechisminayear American Catholic History Podcast https://americancatholichistory.org Road to Emmaus — Dr. Scott Hahn https://stpaulcenter.com/audio/road-to-emmaus Lila Rose Podcast https://www.liveaction.org/lilarosepodcast/ Intentional Tech for Families Wise Phone — Minimal, Distraction-Free Phone Option https://techless.com/wisephoneIsn't it hard to find Catholic friends?! I've got a solution. Hop on over to the Homeschooling for Catholic Parents Facebook community. Where we share about apologetics, homeschooling, and family life! https://maevejemison.com/ Purchase Home Is Where The Truth Is: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Where-Truth-Should-Homeschool/dp/B0CSWJ2QXC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1705863918&sr=8-1

    19 min
5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

You’re wondering if homeschooling is for you. But your inner critic is telling you you’re not enough. How can I teach my kid when we can’t get through homework without tears and yelling?  How would the daily routine look? What curriculum will you use? Your house is already a wreck. You don’t want to feel isolated, like you’re on an island where everyone wears long dresses and raises goats. Plus, aren’t homeschoolers weird? I am so excited you're here! This podcast will give you peace of mind as you raise successful adults who understand their Catholic faith and how to defend it. I’ll help you find the routine that works for you, you’ll still have community, if that’s what you want, and even a clean, organized home is possible (sometimes).  I’m Maeve Jemison, and I host this pod with my handsome husband, Mat. We’re Catholics who prioritize worship and apologetics through our homeschool journey with our five kids.   I’ve made many mistakes along the way. As a young adult, I left the Catholic church because I didn't understand what was going on. I was a government school graduate and high school teacher so I thought homeschooling meant replicating government school at home. (I was wayyyy off!) When I finally learned the depths and truths of Catholicism, I was adamant that I would teach my little cradle Catholics about the history and beauty of the religion that Jesus started. No way would my kids be as oblivious as I was. Our homeschooling became a delightful adventure, with the Lord guiding us in tailoring our children’s education. I knew I had found my calling!  If you’re ready to thrive as the domestic church through worship, apologetics and homeschooling, then this podcast is for you! Thanks for stopping by because home is where the truth is!

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