Homeschool Revolution

Rebecca Stromsdorfer

Becky Stromsdorfer is a homeschool advocate, mom of 5, and founder of My Homeschool Village. For over 20 years she has walked alongside families on the journey from broken to brilliant. Her message is simple — before a child can learn, they have to heal. This podcast is for the moms who are ready to bring their children home and start the healing. 🌿

  1. Oct 1

    Your child's brain doesn't learn like everyone else's

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I dive into ADHD, creativity, dyslexia, learning differences, and why I believe our children need more opportunities to create, move, explore, and discover how they learn best. I start by sharing why I believe creativity is such an important part of education, especially for children with ADHD. I explain how creating can give children an outlet for their energy, help them discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop problem-solving skills. Pasted text I also give a tour of Creativebug, one of the resources available inside My Homeschool Village. I show how children can choose projects based on their own interests, from drawing and baking to jewelry making, knitting, herbal projects, bookmaking, and more. I explain why I like giving children a dedicated time and space each day to work on something they chose themselves. Pasted text In this episode, I also talk about: Why creativity should be part of a child's educationHow art and hands-on projects can support learningGiving ADHD children opportunities to move while they learnWhy children don't have to sit still to learnCreating a daily project time at homeWhy letting children choose their own projects mattersHow creative projects can build confidence and resilienceHelping children discover what they are naturally good atSupporting children with dyslexiaHow typing and copywork can help some dyslexic learnersUsing tools that make reading and writing less frustratingWhy I recommend reading The Dyslexic AdvantageHelping children understand that a learning difference does not mean they aren't intelligentLanguage learning through exposure and immersionWhy I prefer exposing children to languages instead of forcing a curriculumUsing tools like Duolingo when a child is genuinely interested in learning a languageUsing dry erase maps for geography, history, travel, and creative learningResources available inside My Homeschool Village, including Typesy, Epic, Creativebug, and MinecraftHow families can access additional resources through the co-opGetting support from a special education specialist inside the community Pasted textOne of the biggest messages I share is that learning doesn't have to mean sitting at a desk. For some children, movement, hands-on activities, art, and creativity can actually help them focus and engage with what they're learning. Pasted text I also share a very personal story about one of my dyslexic children and the moment she realized that struggling with reading and spelling didn't mean she wasn't smart. That experience reminded me how important it is to help our children recognize their strengths instead of defining themselves by the areas where they struggle. Pasted text Most importantly, I want homeschool parents to remember that our job isn't to force every child into the same learning mold. We can use the tools available to us, pay attention to how our children learn, follow their interests, and create an environment where they can discover what they're capable of. Support the show

  2. Sep 25

    Let your kids fail: the secret to raising confident children

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I dive into what it really takes to raise creative, confident children, and I share some of the biggest lessons I've learned after 25 years of parenting and homeschooling. As I'm updating my book, Kiss My Curriculum, I'm looking back at our family experiences and recognizing the things I did right, the things I got wrong, and the lessons my children have taught me along the way. I'm realizing that raising confident kids isn't about having a perfect plan. It's about giving them room to become who they are. I talk about why play and failure are both essential to building confidence. When children play, solve problems, make decisions, and figure things out for themselves, they're learning that they're capable. And when we allow them to fail instead of constantly protecting them from disappointment, they develop resilience and the willingness to keep trying. TRANSCRIPT (1) In this episode, I also talk about: Why children need plenty of uninterrupted, unscheduled playtimeHow play naturally develops into deeper learning as children growWhy following a child's interests can lead to meaningful learningThe importance of letting children fail and learn from failureHow protecting children from failure can sometimes keep them from discovering their abilitiesHelping children recognize their own strengths instead of comparing themselves to siblingsWhat true humility looks like without putting yourself downWhy children often copy what they see us doingHow our relationship with technology can influence our children's relationship with itWhy parents need to model the behaviors they want to see in their childrenHow I learned that my own self-esteem affected my childrenWhy we need to stop putting ourselves down in front of our kidsHow honoring and taking care of yourself can impact your childrenHelping children use technology as a tool rather than allowing it to become their primary source of entertainmentWhy every child needs an education customized to their individual needsI also share some very personal stories from my own children, including a theater audition, sibling comparison, my son's relationship with his reflection, and the lessons I learned from watching my children grow into their own unique interests and abilities. The bigger lesson I've learned is that confidence doesn't come from protecting our children from every difficult experience. It comes from giving them opportunities to try, fail, learn, play, solve problems, and discover who they are. And sometimes, the most important place to start isn't with our children. It's with us. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NxzGMsIx9pQ Support the show

  3. Sep 18

    I’m making HOMESCHOOL simpler for your family

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I give you a behind-the-scenes look at the latest changes inside My Homeschool Village and explain how we're working to make homeschooling simpler, clearer, and more manageable for families. I walk through our new color-coded class system, the changes to our live classes, and how families can find the right classes and schedules for their children. I also share why we're constantly adjusting the program based on parent and student feedback. I also spend time explaining how we're organizing Bonfire for our older students, including the different levels, entrepreneurship and finance opportunities, live sessions, book discussions, and the new credit and transcript tracking system for families who are preparing their teens for college. In this episode, I also talk about: How our new color-coded system worksChanges to science and 50 States classesAdjustments to GeoGuessr for younger studentsHow to use the classroom calendar and printable schedulesSetting up Minecraft and Chess Club before classThe different levels of BonfireEntrepreneurship, finance, AI, and investing for teensHigh school credits and transcript trackingThe books we're reading inside BonfireWhy we don't automatically grade studentsHow parents can customize their teen's scheduleWhy homeschooling should be simple and organicCreating natural learning habits that last into adulthoodWhy children don't need to spend every day doing every subjectMaking room for kids to dive deeper into subjects they loveHow My Homeschool Village uses parent feedback to keep improvingBuilding a homeschool experience that works naturally for your familyMost importantly, I share why simplicity is at the heart of My Homeschool Village. Education doesn't have to feel like a complicated science. I want families to have a natural rhythm where children can read, write, do math, explore subjects they enjoy, and still have plenty of room for creativity, family, and life. And yes, Trish joins me from my house for this episode after we finally got to meet in person after four years of knowing each other online! Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cco7PUw0Z_E Support the show

  4. Sep 17

    Are You Homeschooling From Fear or Faith?

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I get real about something I think many homeschool moms quietly struggle with: guilt. I share my own experience of growing up in public school, the things I experienced that my parents never knew about, and how homeschooling my own children forced me to look back at parts of my childhood I had once considered "normal." I talk about what happens when family members question your decision to homeschool, why you don't have to justify your choices to everyone around you, and how important it is to step back and ask what kind of parent God is calling you to be. In this episode, I also discuss: Why your childhood experience can shape the way you homeschoolThe guilt many moms feel when choosing a different pathWhy homeschooling doesn't have to look like traditional schoolHow to create a safe space for your children emotionallyWhy we should evaluate the environment we place our children inTeaching children independence instead of doing everything for themWhy helping your children become independent is one of the greatest gifts you can give themLetting go of the need to control every part of your child's educationHow to give your children freedom without abandoning guidanceWhy questioning the status quo can be a good thingUsing faith, wisdom, and prayer when making parenting decisionsWhy you don't have to live the life everyone else expects you to liveI also talk about homeschooling teenagers, opportunities for homeschoolers to participate in school electives and extracurricular activities, finding homeschool communities, and navigating state-specific homeschooling rules. Most importantly, I remind homeschool moms that you get to choose the life you build with your family. You don't have to recreate the childhood you had, and you don't have to follow the path simply because it's what everyone else is doing. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kG6qRX4vp-s Support the show

  5. Sep 17

    Stop raising kids who just do what they're told

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I talk about something that has completely changed the way I homeschool and parent my children: giving my kids a voice. I share a story from when my five kids and I were stuck in the desert and I watched the youngest child get immediately shut down when he shared an idea. That moment taught me how important it is to make sure every child, especially the younger or quieter ones, feels heard and valued. I explain why I don't want my children to simply follow instructions without thinking. I want them to have opinions about their education, ask questions, suggest different ways of learning, and even challenge my ideas respectfully. When children know their opinions genuinely matter, I've seen their confidence, creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-esteem grow. In this episode, I also talk about: Why children need a safe space to share their opinionsLetting kids have a say in their educationWhat to do when your child doesn't like a curriculum or teaching methodHelping children become confident problem-solversWhy the youngest child can often be overlookedHow giving children real input builds self-esteemLetting kids participate in family decisionsTeaching responsibility through everyday choicesIncluding children in conversations about family financesHow to give children independence without giving up your role as the parentWhy sometimes we have to stop saying, "Because I said so"How to balance getting things done with making our children feel valuedI also share how I've learned to slow down and ask myself whether the task I'm trying to accomplish is really more important than the child standing in front of me who needs to feel heard. For me, homeschooling isn't just about academics. It's about raising children who know that their ideas matter, who can think for themselves, and who understand that they're an important part of the family team. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XTMdfvCAyd4 Support the show

  6. Sep 17

    The freedom of HOMESCHOOLING nobody talks about!

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I talk about one of my biggest beliefs when it comes to homeschooling: you get to make the life you want. Your homeschool doesn't have to follow a traditional school schedule, and it doesn't have to look like anyone else's. I share how families can homeschool around their real lives, whether that means doing school at night, focusing on one subject on a particular day, or creating a schedule that works around work and family responsibilities. There is no reason to apologize for building an education that fits your family. I also give an inside look at the exciting changes coming to My Homeschool Village, especially the new high school experience for students ages 14 and up. I've been working hard to create the high school program I always wished existed for my own kids, with organized coursework, live classes, social connection, high school planning tools, transcripts, credit tracking, and additional opportunities through Bonfire Academy. In this episode, I also talk about: Why homeschooling can happen at whatever time works for your familyThe new high school experience for students 14 and upHow Bonfire Academy will support high school studentsCreating a stronger social space specifically for teenagersHelping teens stay accountable without punishmentHigh school planning, credits, transcripts, and diplomasPreparing homeschool students for college and military opportunitiesUsing practice tests to help teens prepare for future goalsWhy young children don't need to be pushed into academics too earlyUnderstanding childhood development and the importance of playSupporting children who struggle with focus and ADHDUsing movement, exercise, hands-on activities, and play as part of learningWhy following a child's interests can lead to deeper learningHow I organize all of my ideas so I don't feel pressured to act on them immediatelyThe courage it takes to turn an idea into something realWhat my children have learned by watching me build My Homeschool VillageI also share some of my favorite resources and ideas for helping young children learn naturally, including books, sensory play, physical activities, and letting children follow their curiosity instead of forcing them into lessons before they're ready. Most importantly, I talk about following the ideas you're given and having the courage to do something with them. Building My Homeschool Village has taken years of faith, work, fear, mistakes, and persistence, and I'm realizing that watching me go through that process may be one of the most valuable lessons I've ever given my children. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aDVWhB6YM-Q Support the show

  7. Aug 7

    The Curriculum Mistake That's Burning Out Homeschool Families

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I answer some of the most common questions I've received from homeschool moms about curriculum, math, grammar, writing, unit studies, and how to create a homeschool that actually helps children love learning. I explain why My Homeschool Village is designed to be flexible, why less can often be more, and how parents can confidently build an education around their child's unique needs instead of trying to recreate public school at home. One of the biggest topics we tackle is math. I share why I don't believe young children need daily math worksheets or 120 lessons every year, and why exposing children to math through games, real-life experiences, and meaningful concepts often produces better long-term results. I also explain why Mondays and Tuesdays are ideal for introducing new concepts, while the rest of the week can be used for review, practice, and hands-on learning. In this episode, I also discuss: How to use unit studies to build an entire week of learning around one topicWhy homeschooling should focus on helping children love learning instead of simply finishing assignmentsTeaching math through games, real-life experiences, and practical applicationWhy I recommend CTCMath for older studentsThe difference between introducing new concepts and reviewing existing onesWhy reading, copywork, journaling, and Typesy naturally teach grammar and writingHelping children become lifelong readers instead of simply completing English worksheetsWhy English, grammar, reading, and writing should be taught together instead of as separate subjectsHow Minecraft Education and other interactive classes build community for homeschoolersNew activities and resources coming to My Homeschool VillageSupporting children with different learning styles and special needs through individualized educationWhy every child deserves an education built around who they areI also answer live questions from parents about curriculum choices, scheduling multiple children, CTCMath, Typesy, special education, AI education for teens, homeschool records, Maryland homeschool requirements, and finding local homeschool communities. This episode is a reminder that homeschooling isn't about checking every box or finishing every lesson. It's about creating an environment where children enjoy learning, grow in confidence, and develop the skills they'll use for the rest of their lives. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fPuKAWU7Q6c Support the show

  8. Jul 29

    How to Customize Your Child's Homeschool Journey

    In this episode of HOMESCHOOL REVOLUTION, I take you behind the scenes of My Homeschool Village and share how to confidently build a homeschool experience that fits your child instead of trying to force them into a one-size-fits-all education. Every child learns differently, and one of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is the freedom to customize their learning journey based on their strengths, interests, and future goals. I walk through several of the resources available inside My Homeschool Village, including Shmoop, Generation Genius, TypeC, Creativebug, and Minecraft Education. I explain when to introduce each program, how they work together, and why it's more important to focus on mastery than rushing through grade levels. Whether your child is college-bound, entrepreneur-minded, or simply discovering their passions, there's a path that can help them thrive. In this episode, I also discuss: How to choose curriculum based on your child's learning styleWhen to transition from Generation Genius to ShmoopWhy Shmoop is a great option for junior high and high school studentsUsing TypeC to improve typing, grammar, vocabulary, and writing skillsHow Creativebug develops creativity, life skills, and problem-solvingWhy AI can be a valuable homeschool learning tool when used appropriatelyTracking homeschool progress without becoming overwhelmedFilling learning gaps instead of focusing on grade levelsWhy reflection is more effective than rigid lesson planningYear-round homeschooling and building consistent learning habitsChoosing educational paths for college, entrepreneurship, or military careersHelping children develop practical skills that prepare them for real lifeI also answer questions from homeschool parents about standardized testing, state homeschool requirements, live classes, Minecraft Education, curriculum planning, record keeping, and how to help children learn at their own pace while building confidence and independence. This episode is a reminder that homeschooling isn't about checking every box or following someone else's plan. It's about creating an education that serves your child, celebrates their unique gifts, and prepares them for the future they are meant to build. Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/w117671xAAk Support the show

About

Becky Stromsdorfer is a homeschool advocate, mom of 5, and founder of My Homeschool Village. For over 20 years she has walked alongside families on the journey from broken to brilliant. Her message is simple — before a child can learn, they have to heal. This podcast is for the moms who are ready to bring their children home and start the healing. 🌿