Our Little Homeschool Podcast

Mustard Seeds NZ
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Welcome to Our Little Homeschool Podcast! We’re a mum and daughter team who love sharing our homeschool days, asking silly (and serious) questions, and exploring what learning at home looks like for us. Whether you’re homeschooling too or just curious, come along for the fun, laughter, and learning side by side.

Episodes

  1. 12/23/2025

    Episode #10: Our Little Advent: Joy

    This week we continue our Advent journey with Episode 3 in our Advent series, focusing on the theme of Joy — the deep, lasting joy that comes from Jesus and the incredible good news of His arrival. In This Episode, We Talk About: The Wise Men and AnticipationWe look at the wise men and how they waited, watched, and travelled with joyful anticipation for Jesus’ arrival. Their journey reminds us that joy can be found in hoping, waiting, and trusting God’s promises — even when the journey feels long. God’s Excitement to Share the Good NewsWe reflect on how God was eager to share the news of Jesus with the world — sending angels, signs in the sky, and messages of great joy. The birth of Jesus wasn’t quiet or hidden; it was joyful, world-changing news meant for everyone. Ways to Spread Joy at ChristmasWe chat about simple and meaningful ways families can spread joy during the Christmas season — through kindness, generosity, encouragement, and pointing others back to Jesus in everyday moments. Christmas Around the WorldAs part of our homeschool learning, we share how we’ve been learning about Christmas celebrations in different countries and cultures, and how joy is expressed in unique and beautiful ways around the world. 🎶 Song Focus: Joy to the WorldWe unpack the much-loved Christmas carol Joy to the World — exploring the meaning behind the lyrics, what they teach us about Jesus, and a bit about the song’s history. We talk about how this song isn’t just about Jesus’ birth, but about Him as King and the joy He brings to all creation. Verses We Talked About Psalm 97:11-12 (NIV) – “Light shines on the righteous, and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name.”Matthew 2:10-11a (NIV) – “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary…”Psalm 98 (NIV) – “Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn — shout for joy before the Lord, the King. Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness.”Psalm 96:11-12 (NIV) – “Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.” Songs We Talked About Joy to the World – Traditional Christmas carol, lyrics by Isaac Watts, music adapted by Lowell Mason. Advent Takeaway Joy isn’t just a feeling — it’s something rooted in Jesus. Even while we wait, we can live with joy because God keeps His promises. Thank you for joining us for Episode 3 of our Advent series. We hope this episode encourages your family to pause, reflect, and rejoice together as we prepare our hearts for Christmas. ✨ Joy to the world, the Lord is come! ✨ This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:📸 Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ 🎙️ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    25 min

  2. 12/08/2025

    Episode #9: Our Little Advent: Peace

    This week on Our Little Homeschool Podcast, we continue our Advent journey with Peace and Preparation. We light the second candle and talk about how Advent invites us to slow down and prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus’ arrival — just like the prophets called God’s people to prepare for the coming Messiah. We explore what biblical Peace really means, and chat about how Jesus is our Prince of Peace. Come and check in with our Jesse Tree as we share how we use it during Advent, to trace God’s big story leading to Jesus. We'll also spend time looking at the Christmas carol “We Three Kings,” unpacking some of the old-fashioned words, the meaning behind the gifts, and how the song points to Jesus as our King, our Lord, and our Saviour. In This Episode We Cover: Lighting the Peace Candle What it means to “prepare our hearts” during Advent How the prophets called people to get ready for Jesus Devotional thoughts about Jesus bringing God’s peace to the world Jingle Jargon! A deep dive into “We Three Kings” Who the “kings” were traditionally understood to be What “bearing gifts” means Symbolism of gold, frankincense, and myrrh Why these gifts point to Jesus’ identity and mission Verses we talked about: John 1:45 “Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’” Isaiah 40:3-5 “A voice cries:‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up,and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together,for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’” Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given;and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be calledWonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Books we talked about: Unwrapping the Names of Jesus Author: Asheritah CiuciuPublisher: Moody PublishersDescription: A 4-week Advent devotional exploring the names and character of Jesus.Link: https://www.moodypublishers.com/unwrapping-the-names-of-jesus/ Songs we talked about: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Traditional Advent hymn (lyrics originally in Latin, “Veni, Veni, Emmanuel”).History: Dating back to the 8th–12th century antiphons. We Three Kings Written by: John Henry Hopkins Jr. (1857)Fun fact: One of the first American carols written specifically for Christmas. Other things we talked about: Jesus and Me Clubhouse A fun, faith-based kids’ program from Loveworld Kids featuring skits, songs, and Bible stories.YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/@loveworldkids Tiny Theologians Podcast A kids’ theology podcast that helps young listeners learn big truths about God in simple, memorable ways. Episodes explore attributes of God, Bible themes, and foundational doctrines in a child-friendly format.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tiny-theologians/id1618372050 We hope this episode helps your family reflect, slow down, and turn your hearts toward Jesus — the true Prince of Peace — as we journey closer to Christmas. Follow along with us on Instagram @mustardseedsnz — we’d love to see your Peace Week crafts, Jesse Tree ornaments, or anything you create! #OurLittleAdvent This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:📸 Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ 🎙️ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    32 min

  3. 11/29/2025

    Episode #8: Our Little Advent: Hope

    Welcome back to Our Little Homeschool Podcast for Week 2 of our Advent Series! Today we’re talking all about HOPE — what it means, why it matters, and how Jesus brings light into the darkest places. We read from our Advent book, light the Hope candle, chat through some reflection questions, and share a few fun and practical ways to spread hope in our community this week. We also introduced a brand-new segment called JINGLE JARGON, where we unpack words from Christmas carols to help kids understand what they sing. We’d love to see how your family is celebrating Advent this year! Whether you’re lighting a candle, doing an activity, making crafts, or just enjoying a moment to celebrate the coming of Jesus , share it with us using #OurLittleAdvent. Tag us so we can see your photos — we’ll be doing little shout-outs on our Instagram page @mustardseedsnz throughout the season. Even if this is your very first time celebrating Advent, we’d love to cheer you on! Verses We Talked About John 8:12 — Jesus tells us He is the Light of the World, giving us hope even when things feel dark.Isaiah 9:2 — A prophecy filled with hope: people walking in darkness will see a great light.Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for good, reminding us that we can always hope in Him. Books we Talked About: Unwrapping the Names of Jesus — Asheritah CiuciuThis beautiful Advent devotional introduces kids and families to the different names of Jesus. Each reading is short, meaningful, and perfect for lighting your Advent candle and chatting together. Songs We Talked About: “Fear Not” — Ellie HolcombA gentle, comforting song reminding us that God is with us and we don’t need to be afraid — a perfect soundtrack for the Hope candle. Links to Activities Advent Wreath Craft https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1KTySrzCLD/ A simple, kid-friendly idea for creating your own Advent wreath at home Names of Jesus Christmas Ornaments https://onethingalone.com/advent/⁠ Free printable ornaments featuring the different names of Jesus. Scroll down, enter your email address, and enjoy the downloads! Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!)Track: Christmas Grooves by Pecan Pie(uppbeat.io — search for Christmas Grooves) This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:📸 Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ 🎙️ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    24 min

  4. 11/20/2025

    Episode #7 It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

    This week we’re kicking off our five-week Advent series, and we’re starting with a fun chat all about Christmas — what it looks like, what it feels like, and why we celebrate it in the first place. We talk about the things that make Christmas special in our home: the decorations going up, the lights twinkling, our favourite foods, and the little traditions we look forward to every year. We also chat about the true meaning of Christmas and why Jesus’ birth is such good news. In this episode, we cover: What Advent is and how it helps us get ready for Christmas Some of our favourite Christmas memories and traditions The decorations we use and the meanings behind them How our family gets ready for Christmas during Advent A quick preview of the next four weeks: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love It’s a fun and festive start to our Christmas season, and we’re so excited to share it with you! Books we talked about: The Baby Born to Change the World (Bible Society children’s Christmas booklet) — Bible Society New Zealand. Bible Society New Zealand+1 A Baa-rilliant Adventure by Zerika van Jaarsveld (with Rumbly, Tumbly & Woolly) — published by Landing Lights Press. Tales from the Farm+1 Merry Christmas, Geronimo! by Geronimo Stilton (real author: Elisabetta Maria Dami) — Scholastic. Scholastic+1 Songs we talked about: “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” – Rend Co. Kids & Rend Collective (Single, 2020) Listen: Apple Music Apple Music - Web Player+2Spotify+2 YouTube video: link YouTube The Donut Man – Christmas Just For Kids (Songs That Teach, Songs That Praise) (Album, 1991) Listen: Spotify Spotify+1 “Love Crashed Into the World (Baby Love)” – Crossroads Kids Club (Single from Kids’ Club Music, Vol. 3, 2013) Info: Crossroads Kids’ Club website Crossroads Kids Club+1 Psalty – Psalty’s Christmas Calamity: Kids Praise! Christmas (Album, 2017) Listen: Apple Music Apple Music - Web Player Info & download: Psalty.com psalty.com This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:📸 Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ 🎙️ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    23 min

  5. 11/13/2025

    Episode #6: Hot Chocolate Chats!

    This week’s episode is a cosy one — we grabbed some hot chocolate, curled up together, and hit record on a relaxed, chatty catch-up! We kick things off with some fun quick-fire questions about what life has looked like for us lately, then wander into a conversation about what it feels like to grow up — the exciting parts, the weird parts, and the things we’re learning along the way. We also share: A bunch of kid-approved jokes One of our favourite games to play when we’ve got a few minutes to fill It’s a simple, sweet episode — like a warm drink for your ears — and we hope it makes you feel like you’re right here chatting with us. Things We Talked About: Jesus and Me Clubhouse — a fun, faith-based kids’ program from Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s Loveworld Kids, available on ⁠YouTube⁠ and other streaming platforms. Zoe's Rescue Zoo - a sweet, animal-filled chapter book series by Amelia Cobb, following Zoe, a girl who can talk to animals, as she helps care for rescued creatures at her great-uncle’s zoo. Perfect for young readers who love gentle adventures and cute animal stories. This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators. Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    22 min

  6. 11/06/2025

    Episode #5: Am I too Little to Pray?

    In this episode, we talk all about prayer — what it is, why we do it, and how we can talk to God anytime, anywhere! We chat about: What prayer isWhy and when we prayHow to pray — even when we don’t know what to sayThe Lord’s PrayerHow we use prayer beads to help us focusAnd how prayer helps us feel close to God Whether you’re big or small, we hope this episode encourages you to talk to God today! Bible Verses We Talked About: Psalm 118:6 The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Philippians 4:6–7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Matthew 6:7–8 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Luke 17:11–19 Jesus heals ten men with leprosy — but only one comes back to thank Him. We talked about what that story teaches us about gratitude in our prayers. Books We Talked About: Any Time, Any Place, Any Prayer by Laura Wifler, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri A beautifully illustrated story that helps kids understand that prayer isn’t just something we do at church — we can talk to God anywhere and anytime! From the creators of The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross, this book shows how Jesus made the way for us to pray to God as our Father. The Beginner’s Bible: Let’s Learn to Pray A simple, colourful introduction to prayer for little ones. It uses short prayers and Bible verses to help children learn to thank, praise, and ask God for help — perfect for early readers or bedtime devotions. Songs We Talked About: “Good Shepherd” by The Donut Man A cheerful, kid-friendly song based on Psalm 23 that reminds us how Jesus is our Good Shepherd who loves and cares for us. The Donut Man songs are full of fun actions, Bible truths, and singalong moments that help kids learn about God through music. Other Things We Talked about: Carry Confetti Podcast by Darcie Frost A beautiful, faith-filled podcast that encourages us to “carry confetti” — discovering how to cultivate a life of hopeful expectation and daily celebration. We hope this episode reminds you that you’re never too little to pray!

    24 min

  7. 10/30/2025

    Episode #4: What’s It Like Being a Pilot, Dad?

    In this episode, Steph interviews someone very special — her dad!He’s a pilot, and we had lots of questions about what it’s like to fly a real plane. We asked him everything from how he became a pilot, to whether he’s ever seen lightning or rainbows while flying, and what all those buttons in the cockpit actually do.He even tells us what it feels like when the plane takes off, and what goes through his mind when he’s way up in the clouds. And of course — we finish with our Quick Fire Round, where Dad chooses between window or aisle seats, night or sunrise flights, and tells us his favourite place to fly in New Zealand. Whether you dream about being a pilot, love learning how things work, or just enjoy a fun family chat — this episode will take you up, up, and away! This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    20 min

  8. 10/23/2025

    Episode #3: Why on EARTH would you homeschool me?!

    This week’s episode flips things around — it’s Stephanie's turn to ask the questions! She’s full of questions about homeschooling — like why we started and how we decide what to learn about! We chat about everything from what school was like when I was growing up, to what I love most (and find trickiest!) about teaching my own kids. It’s light, full of laughs, and gives a real peek into how homeschooling fits our family right now — plus some encouragement for anyone thinking about it too So grab a cuppa or a snack and join us for this fun mum-and-daughter chat! In this episode, we talk about: Why we started homeschooling and why it works well for our family in this seasonWhat Mum remembers about school when she was growing upHow we decide what to learn aboutWhat Mum loves most about teaching her own childrenThe most challenging parts of homeschoolingMum’s favourite things to teachThe things we hope Steph will learn that aren’t just found in booksSome encouragement for families who are thinking about homeschooling too This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZProduced by Emily & Stephanie.

    16 min

  9. 10/16/2025

    Episode #2: "Hey Gabby!" Movie Chat

    This week we’re chatting all about the new Gabby’s Dollhouse movie! We share what we loved, what made us laugh, and what made us think a little deeper. There are lots of fun tangents (of course!), a few interesting faith-related chats, and plenty of movie talk — from favourite songs to unexpected moments and what we think the message behind it all might be. It’s the kind of conversation that might spark a few of your own after watching — about kindness, imagination, and how God can show us things, even through a story like this one 💭🌈 So grab your snacks, press play, and join us for a fun and thoughtful movie chat! In this episode, we talk about: The Gabby’s Dollhouse Movie — based on the popular Netflix series Gabby’s Dollhouse by DreamWorks Animation.Jesus and Me Clubhouse — a fun, faith-based kids’ program from Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s Loveworld Kids, available on YouTube and other streaming platforms. SONGS: ‘Think on These Things’ by Psalty (Ernie Rettino & Debby Kerner Rettino)  https://www.psalty.com/track/688863/think-on-these-things BIBLE VERSES: Philippians 4:8 (NIV): Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV): You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,  because they trust in you. John 14:27 (NIV) Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV): We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. Matthew 22:37–39 (NIV): Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbour as yourself.' John 15:12 (NIV): My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. CORRECTION: The character we talk about in the movie who we refer to as Chumly, is actually called Chumsley!  This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators. Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ Produced by Emily & Stephanie.

    17 min

  10. 10/09/2025

    Episode #1: So… What Is This Homeschool Thing Anyway?

    Ever wondered what homeschooling actually looks like day-to-day? For our very first episode, I chat with Steph about what her homeschool days look like — what she loves most, how she learns best, and what “school” looks like in our home. We dive into questions like: What’s the best part of homeschooling? Who else teaches you? Where do you like to do your book work? What’s your favourite subject (and your least!)? What would you say if someone asked if they should homeschool? We also talk about one of Steph’s favourite learning resources — Crunch Labs.You can check them out here: YouTube: @CrunchLabs This podcast is brought to you by Mustard Seeds NZ — practical support for parents and home educators.Follow along for more encouragement, ideas, and resources:📸 Instagram: @MustardSeedsNZ 🎙️ Produced by Emily & Stephanie

    11 min

  11. 10/05/2025

    Welcome to Our Little Homeschool Podcast!

    Join Emily and Steph, a dynamic mother-daughter duo, on "Our Little Homeschool Podcast" as they explore the joys of learning together. In each episode, they dive into fascinating topics, review books, and interview intriguing guests, all while weaving their faith into their educational journey. Whether you're a homeschooler or simply curious, this podcast is your gateway to discovering new ideas and growing in knowledge and faith. Subscribe now and embark on this enriching adventure with "Our Little Homeschool Podcast"!

    2 min

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About

Welcome to Our Little Homeschool Podcast! We’re a mum and daughter team who love sharing our homeschool days, asking silly (and serious) questions, and exploring what learning at home looks like for us. Whether you’re homeschooling too or just curious, come along for the fun, laughter, and learning side by side.

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