Setting the Spark artwork

Setting the Spark

62 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 3 years ago - ★★★★★ - 31 ratings

Podcast for homeschooling moms of little-ones who are looking for a place to find answers and meaning in your everyday. With Hosts Lorien Magnus and Destiny Kosarick

Education Kids & Family Education for Kids
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Episodes

S03 E08: Mental Health and Children

March 09, 2021 01:39 - 46 minutes - 64.4 MB

In this week's episode, we chat with Cindy Robinson from The Kid Factory to discuss the importance of talking about and being aware of mental health in our kids from a young age. We discuss statistics and how mental health and illness is affecting the current generation and the importance of talking about these topics from a young age. Cindy explains her "5 essential elements of mental health" philosophy and how that guides her parenting to taking care of her child holistically. We also talk...

S03 E07: Inspiration and Hobbies in Motherhood

January 27, 2021 02:39 - 42 minutes - 58.7 MB

We were so delighted to be back with Audrey Albright and catch up on her latest art ventures and hobbies! We discuss how Audrey finds time to nurture her own creativity as well as hobbies her family shares together. Audrey also gives us the exciting details of her new art subscription box which is the perfect asset to any homeschool curriculum. Artkeyology Resources: https://www.artkeyologybox.com/   https://www.etsy.com/shop/artkeyology   https://www.instagram.com/artkeyologybox/  

S03 E06: Homeschooling Kids with Extra Needs

December 03, 2020 12:03 - 57 minutes - 78.9 MB

We were so delighted to talk with Sarah Collins, a homeschool mom and Occupational Therapist, about what it looks like to incorporate extra help and OT services in a homeschool day. Sarah works with homeschool parents helping them to trouble shoot issues they’re having on a daily basis as well as with other OTs on how to work with homeschool families in an office setting. Make sure to check her out on Instagram @homeschoolot. She also has an incredibly helpful blog as well as running the Fac...

S03 E05: Heritage Mom

November 17, 2020 19:02 - 1 hour - 91.7 MB

It was such an honor to talk with Amber Johnston about the importance of recognizing and celebrating heritage. In this conversation, we talk about the importance of having a diverse curricula, what it is like to be a person of color in the homeschool community, how to find (or start!) an inclusive homeschool group, as well as the importance of learning about and celebrating YOUR specific heritage. There is just so much goodness in this episode you don't want to miss! Make sure you follow Amb...

S03 E04: Part Two- Single Parent and Father Led Homeschooling

November 03, 2020 13:58 - 37 minutes - 51.3 MB

We are happy to give you the conclusion to our conversation with Jack! Jack shares so much wisdom on parenting, practical tips, homeschooling through a crisis and so much more that we decided to break it up into 2 parts! Make sure to check Jack out on Instagram @daddyhomeschools, his YouTube channel and his Daddyhomeschools podcast.

S03 E03: Part 1-Single Parent and Father Led Homeschooling

October 21, 2020 01:37 - 45 minutes - 62 MB

We were delighted to have single-parent and homeschooling Dad Jack Stewart back on the show! Jack shares so much wisdom on parenting, practical tips, homeschooling through a crisis and so much more that we decided to break it up into 2 parts! Make sure to check Jack out on Instagram @daddyhomeschools, his YouTube channel and his Daddyhomeschools podcast. 

S03 E02: Creating a Kid’s Bookclub

October 06, 2020 12:00 - 40 minutes - 55.2 MB

In this weeks episode we talk all about our beloved book club for kids. We talk about why we started the bookclub and how we execute it. Make sure to check out our stories on Instagram (@setting.the.spark.podcast) for pictures from each event!

S03 E01The Practice of Patience

September 22, 2020 01:32 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MB

As homeschool parents, we often get the comment, "oh I could never do that! I don't have the patience!". In this weeks episode, we discuss the nitty gritty when it comes to what it looks like to have patience as a parent as well as how to help our kids in this area. Like what you're hearing? Make sure you go and leave us a 5 star review! It helps others in the community to find us and spread the homeschool love. Also, make sure to follow us on Instagram @setting.the.spark.podcast and check ...

Setting the Spark: Debunking Homeschooling Misconceptions

May 28, 2020 01:35 - 1 hour - 83.1 MB

We can’t believe we are already at the end of season TWO of this podcast! For our season finale we thought it’d be fun to discuss some common misconceptions people have of homeschooling and give our take on the issues. Continue to follow us on Instagram @setting.the.spark.podcast and make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you’re first to know when we begin season 3! Resources mentioned: Harvard Article Socialization podcast episode Traditional school to homeschool podcast episode The Brave Learner...

Setting the Spark: The Power of Poetry with Leah Boden

May 05, 2020 01:27 - 47 minutes - 64.7 MB

Whether you’re an avid poetry reader or feel intimated at the mere mention of the word, this episode is for you! British mama of 4 Leah Boden talks with us about how to make poetry accessible (for you and your kids!), why it’s important to add to your homeschool, and some of her favorite poetry resources for adults and kids alike! We may be biased but we think this is just a delightful episode and will uplift your mood and your day! Make sure to check Leah out online at www.leahboden.com as ...

Setting the Spark: Protecting Your Kids with Greta Eskridge (***not appropriate for children***)

April 28, 2020 02:13 - 1 hour - 84.5 MB

*** Content not appropriate for Children*** Greta Eskridge is one of our ultimate mom-heroes, so getting to talk to her was such a privilege. Greta has such a heart for protecting today's children from the evils of pornography and we learned so much from her. In the episode, Greta explains why pornography use is so harmful while empowering us parents in how to fight back and protect our kids. From conversation starters, to books, to words of encouragement, this is a must listen for all paren...

Setting the Spark: Technology in Homeschool

April 14, 2020 12:48 - 42 minutes - 58.4 MB

We were thrilled to have unschooling mom Audrey Albright back on the show talking about how different types of technology enhances her homeschool. From apps and websites to video games and podcasts, it’s a great episode!   Resources: YouTube Abc mouse PBS kids Teach your monster to read Prodigy Minecraft Earth Rangers Wow in the world Stop motion studio Barbie Website

Setting the Spark: The Waldock Way

April 07, 2020 02:03 - 1 hour - 84.1 MB

The Waldock Way has become synonymous in the homeschool community with unit study curriculums like Passport to Adventures" and "Waldock's Wizards and Wands” and we were thrilled to talk to Jessica about all of it! This episode is packed FULL of so much homeschool goodness. From unit studies, morning baskets, and strewing, to educational board games (gameschooling), and quality family time, Jessica Waldock covers it all! Make sure to check her out on IG at @thewalkdockway, her blog (www.thewa...

Setting the Spark: Bestowing the Brush

March 31, 2020 02:43 - 1 hour - 92.8 MB

In this weeks episode, we chat with Bestowing the Brush host Dallas Nachtigall about how she uses painting and art in her homeschool. Dallas shares how she gets her kids involved and how art has truly become a form of mother culture in her Charlotte Mason homeschool. Make sure to check her out on Instagram (@bestowingthebrush), her podcast, and her YouTube channel!

Setting the Spark: Let's Play School

March 24, 2020 01:46 - 1 hour - 92.6 MB

Chelsea Lanese is the creative mind behind the Let’s Play School products (find all of there stuff at letsplayschoolblog.com and follow her on Instagram at @letsplayschool). We were so excited to talk with Chelsea all about her homeschool style, inspiration, and motherhood. With her energy and infectious personality, Chelsea inspired us to continue on in this journey of loving our families and schooling at home.

Setting the Spark: Coronavirus and Homeschooling

March 18, 2020 17:25 - 1 hour - 82.9 MB

***Not appropriate for children*** In this week’s episode we talk with homeschooling mom and medical doctor Dr. Kimberly Mason about the latest developments in the Coronavirus epidemic. We discuss the origins of the virus, steps to take now to protect our community, how the virus appears to affect children and pregnant women, as well as how your homeschool may be impacted (whether you’re a veteran or new to schooling at home). You’ve got this mama- we’re in this together!

Setting the Spark: Homeschooling an Only Child

March 10, 2020 11:49 - 49 minutes - 67.4 MB

Homeschool families come in all different configurations and sizes and today we wanted to take some time to talk about what it looks like to have an only child at home. We explore the beauty and challenges of homeschooling one with boy mom Jillian Graham. It’s a great episode no matter how many kids are in your family!

Setting the Spark: Creating a Nature Curriculum in a Charlotte Mason Education

February 25, 2020 01:12 - 55 minutes - 76.4 MB

Mom of three and Charlotte Mason educating Mama Kim Mason sat down with us this week to talk about one of the tenants of a CM education- nature study. Kim shares how nature study differs from simply playing outdoors, as well as how to implement and even create your own nature study curriculum in your homeschool! Resources: The Handbook of Nature Study Exploring Nature with Children Backyard Bird Song Guide Merlin Bird App Star Walk App A Nature Study Guide Biology for Every Kid Natu...

Setting the Spark: The Importance of Music in Home Education

February 11, 2020 03:27 - 50 minutes - 69.4 MB

We were delighted to talk with Mary Prather of Squilt Music and Homegrown Learners! Mary is a homeschooling mom herself who has made adding music to your homeschool enjoyable, fun, and easy! SQUILT Music Homegrown Learners Christian Sands (artist) Listen to "Flight of the Bumblebee" Can You Hear It? book and cd

Setting The Spark: Leaving Traditional Education for Homeschool

February 04, 2020 01:43 - 1 hour - 85.5 MB

You may remember Christa Thomas from our Importance of the Outdoors episode (if you haven’t listened to it check it out now!). What you may not know is Christa used to teach in both public and private schools. Her sons also attended private and public school for a time. In this episode, Christa shares what it was like for her as a teacher to transition to homeschooling, as well as the (wonderful) difference she’s seen in her sons since bringing them home. Article Mentioned: Kindergarten Te...

Setting the Spark: Winter Homeschool and Handicraft Inspiration

January 21, 2020 13:07 - 52 minutes - 71.9 MB

Waldorf Inspired mama Jen Grant is back sharing all of the cozy and wonderful things her family enjoys about winter. Jen gives some great examples of indoor activities for families as well as winter inspired handicrafts to enrich your homeschool day.  Resources Mentioned: Rat a Tat Cat Uno Clue Guess Who Catan Jr. Hedbandz Jr. Lavenders Blue Homeschool The Artful Year Earthways The Brambly Hedge Series- Winter Story Sun Bread Owl Moon Crab Moon Snack Snooze Skedaddle

Setting the Spark: The Importance of Traditions

December 27, 2019 20:02 - 46 minutes - 63.8 MB

In today’s episode we talk with mom of 5 Naomi about how she uses traditions from her childhood with her children today. We also discuss what it’s like working with Spanish speaking homeschoolers and some Spanish resources!   Resources from this episode: La Edad De Oro by Jose Marti Pio Peep! Traditional Spanish Arco Iris de Poesia De Colores and other Latin American folk songs for children  

Setting the Spark: Heroes and Where to Find Them Pt. 2

December 17, 2019 12:24 - 41 minutes - 57.3 MB

In Part 2 of our Hero series, we talk with Maria Nelson about the importance of heroes in the lives of children. From stories of fictional heroes or biographies of great men and women in history, we dive into the (sometimes murky) water of  learning from those who have gone before us. We also discuss character building books and stories as a part of a living education.  Resources: Wing Feather Saga Green Ember Series Little Britches Series Understood Betsy Anne of Green Gables Chronic...

Setting the Spark: Heroes and Where to Find Them Pt. 1

December 10, 2019 05:12 - 40 minutes - 55.1 MB

In Part 1 of our Hero series, we talk with Maria Nelson about the importance of heroes in the lives of children. From stories of fictional heroes or biographies of great men and women in history, we dive into the (sometimes murky) water of  learning from those who have gone before us. We also discuss character building books and stories as a part of a living education.  Resources: Wing Feather Saga Green Ember Series Little Britches Series Understood Betsy Anne of Green Gables Chronic...

Setting the Spark: Homeschooling and Marriage

November 26, 2019 03:02 - 58 minutes - 80.4 MB

We love homeschooling and marriage so we were so excited when Paula Cutrona came up with the idea to do an episode on how one affects the other. In this episode we discuss so many important topics like practical ways we can use time management to ensure we have energy to put into marriage after a day full of homeschooling, how we communicate to our children the importance of their parents' marriage, our spouses favorite thing about homeschooling, ways that homeschooling can put strain on a m...

Setting the Spark: A Week in the Life of an Unschooler

November 19, 2019 03:52 - 50 minutes - 69.7 MB

While every unschooling family’s schedule will look differently, Audrey walks us through what a typical rhythm and schedule looks like for her family. Audrey also shares her views on subjects such as math and spelling, and how she approaches child led learning in their home. Like what you're hearing? Give us a review! It helps others in the community to find us. Also make sure to check us out on instagram at @setting.the.spark.podcast and online at www.settingthespark.com.

Setting the Spark: Expectations vs. Reality

November 12, 2019 12:28 - 1 hour - 86.4 MB

It's so normal to have expectations about things- especially of how your homeschool day is going to look. We get so excited and have so much fun planning that it can often be discouraging when our reality doesn't meet with those visions. In this episode, your co-hosts discuss how their expectations have been met or challenged during the beginning of their homeschool journey. Like what you're hearing? Give us a review! It helps others in the community to find us. Also make sure to check us o...

Setting the Spark: The Importance of the Outdoors

November 05, 2019 12:28 - 58 minutes - 80.4 MB

There has been a recent influx in information lately about how important it is to get your kids outside more often. In today’s episode, Christa Thomas goes into more specifics as to why this outdoor time is so important for kids developmentally, socially and physically. She discusses the benefits from a scientific perspective and gives great ideas on to how outdoor time into your routine. Resources Mentioned: Vitamin N and Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louve Peter Gray- Free to Learn...

Setting the Spark: Dealing with Burnout

October 22, 2019 03:03 - 48 minutes - 66.3 MB

When you're doing something you love it is often easy to overlook the signs that you're pushing yourself too hard and working in a way that is not sustainable. In this episode, mother of three, Molly, talks with us about her personal experience with burnout. We explore the signs of impending burnout and how to identify them in your life, ways to prevent burnout, as well as ways to recover. This is a very important and encouraging episode for all parents! Like what you're hearing? Give us a ...

Setting the Spark: Inspiration for Prospective and Non-Homeschooling Families

October 15, 2019 01:58 - 41 minutes - 57.1 MB

Are you a parent who is interested in homeschooling but not ready to fully commit? Do you know someone who feels like traditional schooling is better for their child but still wants to implement certain homeschool principles or philosophies? In this episode, we talk with curricula researcher and philosophy lover Lauren Litton about the inspiration she has taken from homeschooling resources and applied them to her (currently non-homeschooling) family life.   Resources: -The Alveary  https:...

Setting the Spark: Homeschooling with Lots of Littles

October 08, 2019 00:10 - 54 minutes - 75.5 MB

There are lots of parents out there who want to homeschool but feel intimidated by having so many young children at home. Kara Hill is the mom of 3 with one on the way. She's here to share some tips and insight into how she does schools and runs her home with (soon to be) 4 children under 5. Like what you're hearing? Give us a review! It helps others in the community to find us. Also make sure to check us out on instagram at @setting.the.spark.podcast and online at www.settingthespark.com. ...

Setting the Spark: For the Love of Living Books Pt.2

October 01, 2019 11:11 - 36 minutes - 49.6 MB

Oh how we love good books around here! Maria Nelson, Charlotte Mason mom of 4, is back this week giving us the low down on some of the best in quality literature for all ages! We had such a great time recording and so much good info we decided to break it into 2 parts! If you haven't had a chance to listen to last weeks episode (part 1) make sure to check it out, too! Like what you're hearing? Give us a review! It helps others in the community to find us. Also make sure to check us out on i...

Setting the Spark: For the Love of Living Books pt.1

September 24, 2019 01:09 - 32 minutes - 44.3 MB

Oh how we love good books around here! Maria Nelson, Charlotte Mason mom of 4, is back this week giving us the low down on some of the best in quality literature for all ages! We had such a great time recording and so much good info we decided to break it into 2 parts! Make sure to head back next week for part 2! Like what you're hearing? Give us a review! It helps others in the community to find us. Also make sure to check us out on instagram at @setting.the.spark.podcast and online at www...

Setting the Spark: Charlotte Mason and Parenting

September 17, 2019 10:43 - 41 minutes - 57.4 MB

As many homeschool parents will attest, homeschooling and parenting go hand in hand and "educator" and "parent" are not two separate roles but often one in the same at any given moment. In this episode we talk with Alisa Wright, Charlotte Mason inspired mom of 3 discusses how Charlotte Mason's philosophies have also influenced her parenting. Enjoying the podcast? We would love it if you'd leave us a review! It helps others find the podcast and share in the encouragement and community. We'd ...

Setting the Spark: Wisdom from the Researcher Mom

September 10, 2019 01:50 - 54 minutes - 75 MB

There are so many wonderful options available to homeschool parents. Sometimes the sheer amount of good and worthwhile opportunities can feel overwhelming. Have no fear! In today's episode, mom of 2 Paula Cutrona, our resident "Researcher Mom" shares some of her tricks for researching the latest curricula, trends, philosophies, etc. as well as how she's able to determine what works and doesn't work for her family. Lots of great info in this one! Enjoying the podcast? We would love it if you...

Setting the Spark: Intentionally Slow Learning

September 03, 2019 13:27 - 56 minutes - 77.4 MB

We are so excited to be back for Season Two! In this first episode we are talking with Audrey Albright about the importance of slowing down her school days and routine. In choosing to intentionally slow down their schedule, we learn the practical ways this has had an impact on her family.  As an unschooler, Audrey also discusses unschool co-ops and democratic schools as a way to engage with other unschoolers.   Enjoying the podcast? We would love it if you'd leave us a review! It helps oth...

Setting the Spark: Season Finale Motherhood, Faith, and Classical Education

June 25, 2019 00:31 - 41 minutes - 57.2 MB

In Season One's season finale, Lorien talks with Ashley Guthas, a classical homeschooling mom about her faith, motherhood, marriage and all things homeschool. We hope you enjoy the episode and tune back in in the Fall of 2019 for Season Two!

Setting the Spark: Homeschool Conference Inspiration

June 06, 2019 02:38 - 37 minutes - 51.5 MB

Have you ever felt like you had homeschool encouragement to share with other moms? Our guests this week, Maria and Naomi are two homeschool alumna as well as current homeschooling moms who have a passion to pass on this love of learning at home with the next generation of moms. Hear the details and how to's of conference planning as well as a glimpse into their heart behind homeschooling and minority populations and homeschool statistics.   For information on the Home Education Georgia con...

Setting the Spark: The Role of Art Education

May 28, 2019 15:13 - 1 hour - 86.7 MB

Unschooling graduate and mother Audrey Albright shares how she uses her degree in Art Education in her unschooling of her children as well as the importance of art in homeschool.

Setting the Spark: Boat-Schooling

May 09, 2019 13:16 - 42 minutes - 58 MB

Who else is ready for summer?! In this episode, we explore the exciting world of BOAT SCHOOLING! Mom of 2 Lyndy Atkinson shares about her family's experience living and schooling on the open sea, what they do when they dock in port, and some of their favorite adventures. http://www.homeschoolahoy.com/

Setting the Spark: Picture and Composer Study in a CM education

May 03, 2019 12:50 - 40 minutes - 55.5 MB

In doing research about a Charlotte Mason education (as well as following tons of people on IG) the topic of picture and composer study kept coming up, but I had no idea what that practically looked like. Thankfully, CM mom Kerri Cummings shed some light on what this looks like in her home as well as the importance and "why" behind the practice. Pull up a chair to our table and lets have a chat!

Setting the Spark: Waldorf Deep Dive - Part 2

April 25, 2019 01:58 - 34 minutes - 47 MB

We are back with Part 2 of our Waldorf Deep Dive with Paula Curtrona! Make sure you check out Part 1 for lots of great information and resources. Resources mentioned in this episode: The Children's Book of Heroes Waldorf 100 Film

Setting the Spark: Waldorf Deep Dive - Part 1

April 19, 2019 01:20 - 49 minutes - 67.8 MB

Mom of two Paula Cutrona discusses her experience with multiple different tools and educational philosophies and how she has come to Waldorf. Paula shares so much great insight about Waldorf methodologies with older children as well as the developmental psychology behind the Waldorf principles we've broken it up into two episodes! Make sure you join us next week for Part 2!   Resources mentioned: Waldorf Essentials Waldorf Education: Celebrating 100 years Christopherus Homeschool Resour...

Setting the Spark: Homeschooling and Bad Days

April 11, 2019 23:37 - 49 minutes - 68.6 MB

Every parent out there knows what its like to have a bad day, both personally and with your children. In this episode, we chat with Unschooling mom Audrey Albright about ways she combats challenging days and attitudes during their homeschooling. In an episode of solidarity one parent to another, this is an episode that will help you feel a little less alone in your daily struggles!

Setting the Spark: 20 Questions With Your Hosts!

April 04, 2019 02:18 - 54 minutes - 75.3 MB

This was such a fun episode to record! We hope you enjoy getting to know a little bit more about us, your hosts (Lorien and Destiny) in a fun, impromptu round of 20 questions!

Setting the Spark: Interview with Homeschooling Dad Jack Stewart

March 28, 2019 02:07 - 56 minutes - 77.1 MB

 Setting the Spark Husbands Joey and Adam were thrilled to chat with full time homeschooling British dad Jack Stewart. Jack shares his wisdom as a second generation homeschooler raising 3 kids in England  and what it is like to be a father and the full time home educating parent. Follow along with Jack's homeschool adventures on instagram @daddyhomeschools.

Setting the Spark: Science, Math, and Technology according to Charlotte Mason

March 21, 2019 12:26 - 53 minutes - 73.8 MB

Homeschooling parents can often be intimated by teaching science and math as their children progress in their schooling. Medical Doctor and homeschooling mom of 3, Kim Mason, shares with us the Charlotte Mason approach to science and math and the practical ways she implements this in her family. Kim also gives insight into the use of technology into today's homeschool and some of the ways she utilizes different technologies to suit her family's Charlotte Mason lifestyle. There's lots of good...

Setting the Spark: What About Socialization?

March 14, 2019 13:05 - 52 minutes - 71.9 MB

As homeschooling moms, we often get asked, "but what about socialization?!?". In this episode, you will hear from Lorien, Destiny, and Jen about how they answer that (sometimes dreaded) question, as well as their thoughts behind how our culture views socialization. We also discuss the various ways our homeschooled kids get social time and how we prioritize that. One of the most personal episodes yet as we share some of our own experiences with "socialization". Find us on instagram at @setti...

Setting the Spark: World Schooling 102

March 08, 2019 19:13 - 51 minutes - 70.7 MB

We couldn't get enough of the globe trotting adventures of world schoolers so we were so excited when another world schooling mom agreed to come on the show! Catherine Olson, mother to four children seven and under, adopts a schooling philosophy that combines unschooling with worldschooling. She and her husband, Gabriel, both struggled with the limiting confines that public education offers. After nearly failing to graduate high school, Catherine discovered the immense possibilities of auton...

Setting the Spark: Unschooling on a Budget

February 28, 2019 03:58 - 50 minutes - 68.7 MB

Homeschooling doesn’t have to break the bank. Join us as unschooling mom Audrey Albright shares her tips and tricks for homeschooling on a budget.  Find us on instagram at @setting.the.spark.podcast and don't forget to enter our IG challenge for a chance to win a monthly prize! Also check out our website at www.settingthespark.com to learn more about your hosts and our panel of moms along with amazing resources and community connections The Same Page Podcast Wow in the World  

Guests

Jack Stewart
1 Episode