#121

Discover how the innovative Legi-Liner is transforming handwriting skills while empowering students to succeed! Join Jae from the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast as they chat with Polly Benson, a passionate occupational therapist and entrepreneur, about her journey from classroom therapy to creating this game-changing tool.

Polly shares how the Legi-Liner simplifies handwriting practice, builds fine motor skills, and supports students of all ages, including those with special needs. Learn about creative ways to simplify handwriting challenges while fostering a growth mindset and reimagining what learning looks like for homeschoolers.

From improving posture and grip to boosting self-esteem through legible writing, this episode dives into practical strategies to enhance your homeschooling journey and create a supportive learning environment. Polly also reveals how her mission to help students achieve success has positively impacted countless lives through her innovative products and dedication to the homeschool community.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with actionable tips and resources to enrich your homeschool experience. Visit Legiliner.com to explore these tools, follow Homeschool Yo Kids on social media for more empowering content, and join the conversation in our homeschool community today!

https://www.legiliner.com/

Polly Benson, OTR/L, is a licensed Occupational Therapist with 30 years of experience. She earned her degree in Allied Medicine from The Ohio State University. Polly has extensive experience in technology apps and strategies designed to assist clients for achieving handwriting goals. She is a distinguished therapist and a seasoned continuing education instructor. She volunteers at her local church as a middle school special needs small group leader.Recently she has invented a new product called the Legi-Liner to help students with improving their handwriting. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and resides in Gainesville, GA.

#occupationaltherapytools #occupationaltherapy #writingutensil #improvingfinemotorskills #finemotorskillsforhandwriting

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:44 - Polly Benson, Occupational Therapist03:29 - What is Occupational Therapy07:14 - Handwriting Techniques08:37 - Technology vs Handwriting Methods14:57 - Inspiration for the Stamp17:45 - Stamp Production Process20:35 - Impact of the Stamp on Lives21:50 - Additional Activities23:30 - Legi Liner Stamps Overview26:10 - Occupational Therapy Lesson Plans28:40 - Consulting Services31:20 - Finding Ashley Online32:02 - Passion for Handwriting33:38 - Key Takeaways for Listeners35:00 - Final Thoughts

#122 Discover the power of community in homeschooling 🏡 as Bernita Bradley shares her inspiring homeschool journey and how she’s empowering students through Engage Detroit. This episode dives into creative ways to simplify learning, fostering a growth mindset, and reimagining what learning looks like. Bernita discusses her transition from traditional education advocacy to creating a thriving homeschool community that supports families and embraces unconventional learning environments. Learn how to navigate education systems, advocate for your child, and build a homeschool network that aligns with your values. From addressing systemic challenges to celebrating individual learning paths, Bernita’s insights provide actionable inspiration for parents seeking student success and a supportive homeschool community.

https://www.engageddetroithsc.com/

Bernita Bradley is a social entrepreneur who advocates for and with families in Detroit, Michigan. She is the founder of The Village, an outreach and recruitment company which ensures that future outcomes for children are prioritized within community, philanthropic and education environments.

In 2020 Bernita founded Engaged Detroit, a Homeschool Co-op to support parents on their journey of becoming their child's teacher.

Bernita was selected as first American International Fellow for the Kettering Foundation because she understands that successful community partnerships are authentic and must be built on fidelity. During her residency at the foundation she interviewed community orgs across the country to learn “What Orgs Do to Prepare Our Most Marginalized Communities for the Future of Work?” She serves as Director of Parent Voice w/ The National Parents Union, and assures that youth and parent voices are present at every change making table on a state and federal level. Bernita trains parents to take a leadership role in education with the promise to pay it forward and advocate for not just their childs needs but all of the children in their community.

Creating opportunities for community partners to hear from families for partners orgs/companies helps children to thrive. Bernita designs, plan and implement focus groups, listening session, community and parent/youth advisory councils that hold partners to their mission and values. My Brothers Keeper Initiative (Detroit), NPU FAC, DPTV, Skillman Foundation, Great Schools, Hope Starts Here Detroit, The GOAL Line and UNIDOS/National Urban League are a few of the partners she has facilitated for.

Join the conversation and visit HomeschoolYoKidsExpo.com to stay connected, explore resources, and find your tribe. Together, let’s create learning environments where every child thrives! #Homeschooling #Education #LearningEnvironment #StudentSuccess #HomeschoolCommunity#standardeducation #non-traditionaleducation #child-ledlearning #non-standardcurriculum #personalizededucation#healthyschools #familyinvolvement #homeschoolingcommunity #tths #homeschoollessonplansCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:52 - Bernita Bradley, The Village and Engage Detroit01:49 - Bernita's Homeschooling Journey05:13 - Victoria's Homeschooling Journey14:57 - Journey to Homeschooling22:04 - Reading Level in Detroit23:45 - Importance of Time in Education26:55 - Punishing Your Child 31:15 - Partnering with Your Child in Learning32:30 - Engage Detroit Overview38:33 - The Village Concept45:46 - Inspiration Behind Engage Detroit49:20 - Support Parents Need for Success51:58 - Children Are the Future58:33 - Bernita’s Self Care Practices01:01:10 - Where to Find Bernita Online01:02:36 - Key Takeaways for Parents01:05:40 - Advocate for Your Children’s Education

#120

Discover the "3 Secrets to Boost Your Child’s Reading Confidence 📖" in this enlightening episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast! Host Jae welcomes retired kindergarten teacher and passionate children's bookseller Audrey Tollenaer, who shares her expertise in fostering a love for reading and empowering students through creative ways to simplify literacy. From building a home library to reimagining what learning looks like during challenging times, this episode is packed with actionable tips for parents striving to create a nurturing educational environment. Audrey dives into her journey from teaching in traditional and parochial schools to homeschooling her own children during the pandemic, and how she uses her passion for literacy to instill a growth mindset in young learners. She also discusses how parents can support their children’s success by modeling a love for reading, embracing unique learning paces, and finding innovative tools to make reading fun and engaging.

Learn how Audrey’s work with Paper Pie (formerly Usborne Books) is revolutionizing the homeschool journey by providing resources that equip families to tackle the literacy crisis. Whether you're part of the homeschool community or looking for ways to enhance your child's learning environment, this episode offers invaluable insights for every parent.

Join the conversation and explore ways to empower your children today! Visit Audrey's Reading Crew at audreysreadingcrew.com for more resources, and connect with the Homeschool Yo Kids community for more inspiring stories and tools to support your homeschool journey. Together, let's foster a love for learning that lasts a lifetime!

#readingcurriculum #homeschoolreadingcurriculum #allaboutreadingreview #homeschoolresources #homeschoolingforbeginners

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction00:35 - Audrey Tollenaer Introduction01:15 - Kindergarten Experience Insights03:35 - Classroom Duration and Impact05:22 - Discovering Paper Pie Learning08:03 - Building Confidence in Reading10:45 - Reading Development Timelines12:39 - Kids' Love for Reading17:24 - Benefits of No Technology19:50 - Introducing Educational Technology21:45 - Technology's Impact on Kids24:15 - Social Media Influence27:33 - Time Management Strategies31:00 - Overview of Paper Pie32:45 - Business Model of Paper Pie35:57 - Educational Practices in Schools41:29 - Importance of Parental Involvement44:08 - Addressing the Literacy Crisis47:50 - Paper Pinecone Learning Materials49:29 - Connecting with Audrey50:23 - Hosting Engaging Book Parties52:30 - Key Takeaways for Parents56:48 - Homeschooling Your Kids

#119 Non-traditional homeschooling is transforming education, and this episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast dives into why it’s a winning choice every time 🎓. Host Jae is joined by Laquinda “Quinn” Johnson, a seasoned educator, entrepreneur, and homeschooling advocate, to discuss her inspiring homeschool journey since 2019. Discover how Quinn empowers her daughter with real-world experiences, a growth mindset, and entrepreneurial skills, reimagining what learning looks like beyond traditional classrooms.

Quinn shares her transition from a 14-year career in public education to homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of tailoring education to meet individual family needs. From flexible learning environments to fostering a homeschool community, this conversation offers creative ways to simplify and enrich the homeschooling experience while focusing on student success.

Learn practical tips on building a customized curriculum, instilling character and life skills, and the value of being unapologetic in your homeschooling decisions. Whether you’re a veteran homeschooler or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement to redefine education on your terms.

Join the Homeschool Yo Kids community to explore more about empowering students and creating a thriving learning environment. Visit homeschoolyoukidsexpo.com for updates, follow us on social media @LadyQuinnEnterprise, and be part of a movement that celebrates unconventional learning!

Homeschooling isn’t just an educational choice—it’s a lifestyle. Let’s stand on business and make it count! 🌟

LaQuinda Johnson is a dedicated homeschooling parent, experienced educator, entrepreneur, and government contractor committed to transforming education. Since making the decision to homeschool in 2019, she has embraced the role with adaptability, patience, and creativity, ensuring that learning extends beyond traditional methods. With a focus on academic excellence, character development, sustainability, instilling cultural pride, a sense of purpose and hands-on experiences, LaQuinda curates personalized lessons tailored to her daughter’s unique learning style. As an advocate for educational choice, she supports other families in navigating their homeschooling journey, sharing valuable resources and strategies to help them succeed. Beyond her role as an educator at home, LaQuinda is passionate about creating enriching opportunities that empower scholars to think critically, explore their interests, and develop lifelong skills.

With over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher, LaQuinda has held various roles that have strengthened her expertise in curriculum development, scholar engagement, leadership and instructional best practices. She later transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding LadiQuin Enterprise, LLC, an innovative educational consultancy. Through this venture, she provides comprehensive educational services and solutions, including tutoring, consulting, curriculum development, professional training, etc. while supporting schools, families, and organizations in enhancing scholar learning. Her work extends beyond the classroom as she collaborates with educators, administrators, and community leaders to implement customized educational solutions that meet the diverse needs of scholars.#ourhomeschoolingjourney #homeschoolingonlineresources #homeschoolingjourney #homeschoollessonplans #homeschooling101

#118

Why did one family choose unschooling as the best path for their Black boys? 🎓 This episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast dives into the inspiring homeschool journey of Aimbriel, a homeschooling mom of four based in Georgia, who shares how she reimagines what learning looks like for her children. Hear how she and her husband empower their sons through an innovative learning environment, balancing freedom and structure to foster a growth mindset and lifelong skills.

Aimbriel opens up about their family's transition from traditional schooling to unschooling, highlighting key moments that shaped their decision. From addressing systemic challenges in education to embracing creative ways to simplify learning, she explains how unschooling allows her boys to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. This episode also touches on the importance of building a supportive homeschool community, nurturing individuality, and preparing students for real-world success.

Discover practical tips for creating a personalized education plan, integrating life skills, and maintaining flexibility in your homeschool approach. Whether you're new to homeschooling or looking for fresh ideas, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to inspire your journey.

https://www.heritagehomeschoolers.org/

Aimbriel C. Lasley was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN. She is married to her husband Darron, and they have four children: Aliya, Dacen, Aven, and Dane. Aimbriel has been homeschooling her children for seven years, cultivating a passion for education and personalized learning. Her homeschooling journey integrates her expertise in health and wellness with a focus on fostering a holistic, nurturing environment for her children to thrive academically and personally.

Aimbriel holds a Master’s Degree in Health and Wellness Counseling, is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and a Certified Holistic Nutritionist. Her passion for education and health was ignited in her late teens after witnessing her grandparents’ health struggles, which motivated her to prioritize wellness and pursue a plant-based, vegan lifestyle for her family. In addition to homeschooling, Aimbriel has dedicated her time to empowering families, specifically black families through education and support. She has volunteered in many capacities, served on boards, and spoken extensively on topics such as breastfeeding, lactation, and nutrition. Her commitment to education and hands-on approach to homeschooling have made her a valuable resource to the community.

Aimbriel currently lives in Georgia with her husband and three boys, where she continuesto share her knowledge and passion for health and education with other homeschoolingfamilies.

Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast shares organic conversations that promote confidence, a growth mindset, and are filled with inspiration and good energy. Sharing stories from the classroom, their home learning journey, and other reflections and life experiences, come grow and learn with Jae.

Visit our website!! https://www.homeschoolyokidsexpo.com/ Follow us on IG:@homeschoolyokids @homeschoolyokidspodcast

Join our FB Group: Homeschool Yo Kids

Homeschool Yo Kids Organization is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides families with tools to aid unconventional learning experiences, helping to create a positive home learning environment. In addition to this, we are missioned to help families in traditional schools build a healthy collaborative relationship between the school and home.

Join us in fostering student success and unconventional learning by visiting homeschoolyourkidsidexpo.com for resources, upcoming events, and ways to connect with a vibrant homeschool community. Together, let's build a better future through education!#child-ledlearning #play-basedlearning #educationreform #homeschoolingjourney #lifelonglearning

#115 Why should parents take the lead in their kids' education journey? In this episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast, Jae is joined by Lynn Aronoff Executive Director of PACE (Parent Advocates for Choice in Education), to discuss the power of parental involvement in shaping a child's learning environment. They explore the importance of school choice, empowering students through individualized education, and creative ways to simplify homeschooling for busy families.

Learn how parents across Michigan are reimagining what learning looks like by creating co-ops, micro-schools, and embracing unconventional learning solutions. Lynn shares inspiring stories from families who have taken charge of their children's education, highlighting the growth mindset needed to foster student success. She also emphasizes how families can advocate for change by sharing their personal experiences to influence legislators and improve the education system.

Discover how the Homeschool Yo Kids community supports parents in leading their children's homeschool journey, creating meaningful partnerships between home and school, and providing resources to help parents navigate their educational options.

mipace.org

Lynn Aronoff is the Executive Director at PACE (Parent Advocates for Choice in Education), where she develops resources and partnerships to advance the organization’s efforts to promote educational freedom for Michigan’s children. Families who can effectively share the stories of how they have benefited from school choice can make a powerful, positive impact.

PACE is a nonprofit organization whose core values are to:Protect and expand the rights of parents/guardians to provide educational opportunities for their children.

Ensure the right of all children in Michigan to have access to a quality education regardless of location or socioeconomic status.

To further the understanding that each child is unique and parents/guardians are best-positioned to act as primary decision-makers regarding their children’s education.She is the owner/principal of Action Strategies, LLC, a political consulting, event management and fundraising consulting firm. In her personal time, she enjoys serving on the Foster Care Review Board of Michigan. Spending time with her son at the hockey rink is where you can find her in her downtime.Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast shares organic conversations that promote confidence, a growth mindset, and are filled with inspiration and good energy. Sharing stories from the classroom, their home learning journey, and other reflections and life experiences, come grow and learn with Jae.Visit our website!! https://www.homeschoolyokidsexpo.com/ Follow us on IG:@homeschoolyokids @homeschoolyokidspodcastJoin our FB Group: Homeschool Yo KidsHomeschool Yo Kids Organization is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides families with tools to aid unconventional learning experiences, helping to create a positive home learning environment. In addition to this, we are missioned to help families in traditional schools build a healthy collaborative relationship between the school and home.Join the movement! Visit homeschoolyourkidsexpo.com to learn more and connect with a like-minded homeschool community that values creativity, collaboration, and personalized learning. Your story matters, and together, we can make a difference in the future of education.#schoolchoiceadvocacy #parentalinvolvement #parentinvolvement #urbaneducation #parentinvolvementeducation

#118

Why is tutoring a game-changer for homeschool families? 🎓 In this insightful episode of Homeschool Yo Kids, host Jae welcomes Abi, a passionate full-time tutor, to discuss the transformative impact of tutoring on homeschooling. Discover how tutoring empowers students, fosters a growth mindset, and reimagines what learning looks like for families navigating their homeschool journey.Abi shares her inspiring path from classroom teaching to establishing her thriving tutoring business, where she supports students of all levels—whether they’re struggling or excelling. Learn about creative ways to simplify complex subjects, tips for building a supportive learning environment, and why tutoring is essential for student success in both homeschool and traditional education settings.Aligned with the Homeschool Yo Kids mission, this episode reinforces the idea that homeschooling doesn’t have to be a solo journey. By building community and leveraging resources like tutoring, families can unlock new opportunities for educational growth.

Instagram (personal) @ab.rosseeInstagram

(business) @brighterminds.tutoring

Website: www.brighterminds-tutoring.comAbout Abi

Hi! I’m Abi Valdes, an experienced educator and entrepreneur with a passion for helping students succeed. I’ve been a tutor for six years and started Brighter Minds Tutoring in May 2023 to provide personalized academic support. Now, I’m expanding my impact with a Coral Springs Learning Pod, a part-time homeschool program for 6th and 7th graders. Beyond education, I love building communities and bringing people together—fun fact: I also run Spike Hard Volleyball, one of South Florida’s largest adult volleyball tournaments!

Ready to enhance your homeschool experience? Visit homeschoolyourkidsexpo.com for more resources, connect with the community, and follow us for more empowering content. Let’s make homeschooling a collaborative, enriching journey for every family! 🌟#benefitsoftutoring #homeschoolingforbeginners #tutoringbenefits #homeschoolcurriculum #specialneedstutoringCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:22 - Abi Introduces Herself01:45 - Abi’s Education Journey06:03 - Middle School Insights10:43 - Teaching During Shutdown16:25 - Starting a Tutoring Business17:50 - Saying Yes to Opportunities20:33 - Subjects Offered in Tutoring21:44 - In-Person vs Online Tutoring26:00 - Importance of Tutoring33:07 - Finding Abi's Services36:40 - Tutoring Approach Explained42:40 - Students Suing Schools for Preparation48:34 - Self-Care for Educators52:17 - Key Takeaways for Families55:31 - Abi’s Links and Resources55:35 - Supplementing Your Child’s Education55:50 - Thank You & Homeschooling Tips

#116

Discover how homeschooling and micro schools are reshaping education to stop the school-to-prison pipeline in this empowering episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast. Host Miss Jae welcomes Reverend Janelle Wood, founder of Black Mother's Forum and School 2 Purpose Academies, to discuss creating safe, supportive learning environments that prioritize student success and equity.

Reverend Janelle shares her journey of tackling systemic barriers in public education, her advocacy for Black families, and the transformative power of personalized learning. From breaking down zero-tolerance policies to fostering growth mindsets and healthy relationships, this conversation dives deep into reimagining what learning looks like for today’s students. Learn how parents can advocate for their children, build community, and take charge of their homeschool journey.

https://blackmothersforums.com/https://bmfmicroschools.org/

Reverend Janelle shares her journey of tackling systemic barriers in public education, her advocacy for Black families, and the transformative power of personalized learning. From breaking down zero-tolerance policies to fostering growth mindsets and healthy relationships, this conversation dives deep into reimagining what learning looks like for today’s students. Learn how parents can advocate for their children, build community, and take charge of their homeschool journey.

Rev. Janelle is the Founder/CEO of the Black Mothers Forum, Inc., founded in August 2016, a non-profit organization of black mothers who have come together to end the bloodshed in the Black community; dismantle the school to prison pipeline; and restore the strength, dignity and hope of the Black community. She strongly believes in parental choice and children should be able to pursue their educational endeavors in safe and supportive learning environments.

Rev. Janelle led the way for her organization to be named one of the 2022 YASS Prize Semi-Finalists. She was one of the leading advocates for the passing of Arizona’s Universal ESAprogram signed into law in August 2022. She is a published author, Black Minds Matter McLeod Fellow, Common Sense Institute Choice Fellow, Arizona State Department ofEducation ESA Parent Handbook Facilitator and most recently co-authored two research papers, “Do Public Schools Serve all Students” and “Choosing Choice” . She has served on many councils, committees, taskforces and panels. Through her work, Black Mothers Forum MicroSchools (opened in January 2021) and has served 150+ pre-K-10th grade students and their families.

Rev. Janelle Wood earned her B.S. in Economics from Arizona State University and her M.A. in Biblical Leadership from Phoenix Seminary. She has been married for 30+ years and is the proud mother of one adult son and new daughter-in-love.If you're passionate about education, empowering students, and finding creative ways to simplify learning, this episode is packed with actionable insights and resources. Visit homeschoolyokidsexpo.com to explore upcoming events, connect with like-minded families, and join a growing homeschool community. Together, let’s redefine education and ensure every child thrives!Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast shares organic conversations that promote confidence, a growth mindset, and are filled with inspiration and good energy. Sharing stories from the classroom, their home learning journey, and other reflections and life experiences, come grow and learn with Jae.Visit our website!! https://www.homeschoolyokidsexpo.com/ Follow us on IG:@homeschoolyokids @homeschoolyokidspodcastJoin our FB Group: Homeschool Yo KidsHomeschool Yo Kids Organization is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides families with tools to aid unconventional learning experiences, helping to create a positive home learning environment. In addition to this, we are missioned to help families in traditional schools build a healthy collaborative relationship between the school and home.