Shows
The Intentional Homeschooler036: Curriculum is Just a Tool: How to Choose What's Best for Your ChildFeeling overwhelmed by all the homeschool curriculum options out there? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast, Erika Sagert shares practical, faith-centered guidance to help you choose curriculum with confidence — not fear.Erika walks you through the most important factors to consider (learning style, teaching style, worldview, and budget), mistakes to avoid, and how to know when to stick with a curriculum versus when it’s time to switch. She also shares personal stories from her own homeschool journey — including how a catalog from a friend changed everything, and why listening to your chi...2025-07-3114 minThe Intentional Homeschooler035: Teacher vs. Mom: When Your Kids Don't Take You Seriously as Their TeacherDo your kids struggle to take you seriously as their homeschool teacher?You’re not alone. Many moms wrestle with the question: “How can I be both mom and teacher—and still be respected?”In this episode of The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast, I’m unpacking why this dynamic happens, what you can do about it, and how to confidently lead your homeschool—even when you feel like you’re winging it.You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, set clear boundaries, and step into your God-given role as both nurturer and instructor. Whether you’re h...2025-07-1711 minThe Intentional Homeschooler034: Chores That Count: Turning Everyday Tasks Into Homeschool LessonsIs your homeschool day constantly interrupted by “What’s for lunch?” or a mess left in every room? What if those very interruptions could actually become part of your homeschool plan? In this episode of The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast, Erika Sagert shows you how to transform everyday chores into powerful homeschool lessons that teach character, life skills, and even academic concepts.Whether you're a new homeschool mom or a seasoned veteran, this episode will help you reframe your mindset and find practical ways to weave learning into the natural rhythms of home life—without adding more to your pla...2025-07-0312 minThe Intentional Homeschooler033: Can I Really Homeschool my Children? Every homeschool journey starts with a single, honest question: “Can I really do this?” In this heartfelt episode, Erika shares her personal story of being told she wasn’t capable of attending college because of her learning disability — and how pushing through that planted the seeds of determination that still fuel her homeschooling today. If you're doubting yourself, this episode offers both encouragement and practical action steps to help you move forward with confidence, even if you don’t feel perfectly equipped.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:- Erika’s personal story of ov...2025-06-1210 minThe Intentional Homeschooler032: Building a Strong Math Foundation: Balancing Procedural Skills and Conceptual Understanding in Math Part 2Do your kids ever just follow math steps without truly getting it? Or maybe they understand the concept but struggle with calculations? This episode is your roadmap! Building on last week's discussion of conceptual vs. procedural math, we're diving deep into the "how" – offering concrete, actionable strategies and real-world examples to help your homeschooler not just do math, but truly understand and master it. We'll explore how to foster both deep conceptual understanding and essential procedural fluency, turning frustrating math moments into "aha!" breakthroughs.Listen in to discover:The crucial connection between conceptual understanding and procedural fl...2025-05-2916 minThe Intentional Homeschooler031: Building a Strong Math Foundation: Balancing Procedural Skills and Conceptual Understanding in MathToday, we're diving into a fundamental aspect of math education: the crucial difference between conceptual and procedural math.We've all experienced the initial win of a child getting the right answer by following steps. But does this indicate true comprehension?This episode will explore the power of understanding the "why" behind math (conceptual) versus simply knowing the "how-to" (procedural).We'll discuss strategies to cultivate both types of understanding for a stronger, more adaptable mathematical foundation in our children.(Brief mention of the story about students at the LC passing the math competency, perhaps as an example of procedural...2025-05-1513 minThe Intentional Homeschooler030: Homeschooling Hurdles: Addressing Common Concerns and Finding Solutions Today, we're diving into a crucial topic for anyone considering or currently on the homeschooling journey: potential pitfalls.Emphasis on a positive and proactive approach – this isn't about negativity, but about equipping ourselves with knowledge and strategies for success and framing these "pitfalls" as essential considerations on the homeschooling roadmap. Our goal is to provide tools to smooth out these bumps and ensure a thriving educational experience.1) Socialization - Finding Their TribeSocialization consistently ranks as a top concern regarding homeschooling.Acknowledge the validity of this concern: humans are social, and children develop crucial...2025-05-0117 minThe Intentional Homeschooler029: Get Your Hands Dirty, Grow Their Minds: Homeschooling Through GardeningTired of textbooks? Yearning for hands-on learning that truly sticks? Join me as I dive into the wonderful world of gardening and discover how this engaging activity can blossom into incredible learning opportunities across all homeschool subjects. From science and math to language arts and social studies, we'll explore how getting your hands dirty can cultivate curiosity, responsibility, and a lifelong love for nature in your children – no sprawling garden required!Sign up for my FREE info session where I'll answer the top three homeschooling questions: 1) How do I fit homeschooling into my life? 2) Will I mess my...2025-04-1718 minThe Intentional Homeschooler028: Feeling Scattered? Focus on Your One Thing!Sign up for my FREE info session where I'll answer the top three homeschooling questions: 1) How do I fit homeschooling into my life? 2) Will I mess my kids up? 3) What about socialization? And, I'll have a Q&A session! Choose from April 18 or May 2nd. Click here to sign up! I can't wait to see you there! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>https://theintentionalhomeschooler.com/info-session2025-04-0318 minThe Intentional Homeschooler027: How Can You Build a Faithful Christian Foundation in Your Homeschooling? Christian homeschooling parents have the incredible opportunity to shape their children's worldview. But how do we seamlessly integrate faith into every aspect of our homeschool? In this episode, we explore practical strategies for weaving biblical principles into academics, fostering spiritual disciplines, and modeling genuine faith. Join us as we unpack actionable steps to help you guide your children on a lifelong journey of faith and learning.Key Topics Covered:The Privilege and Responsibility of Christian Homeschooling:Understanding the importance of building a faith foundation.Scriptural encouragement for raising children in the Lord (Prov. 22:6, Eph. 6:4, Deut. 6:6-7, Psal...2025-03-2017 minThe Intentional Homeschooler026: You ARE Making a Difference! Encouragement for the Homeschool Mom. Homeschool moms, are you questioning your impact? In this episode, Erika Sagert reminds you of the vital role you play in shaping the next generation. Discover encouragement, practical insights, and the importance of community support in your homeschooling journey. Erika Sagert addresses the concerns and challenges faced by homeschooling moms. She shares her personal journey and the growing anxieties about the current educational landscape, emphasizing the biblical mandate to raise children in truth. Erika acknowledges the difficulties of homeschooling, including doubts, the constant demands, and relationship strains, but stresses the profound impact of a supportive community. ...2025-03-0614 minThe Intentional Homeschooler025: Feeling Anxious? Declutter Your Space for Better Productivity and Mental Clarity!In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic many of us can relate to: decluttering! From that mountain of clothes you never wear to a kitchen crammed with rarely used gadgets, clutter can feel overwhelming. But don't worry—you're not alone! Erika Sagert walks us through easy-to-follow strategies for decluttering your home, especially for homeschoolers. Whether you want to create a more organized workspace or create peace in your home, these tips will help you get started.We'll cover the four-box method, room-specific decluttering tips, and ways to stay motivated. Plus, we’ll share a few pers...2025-02-2017 minThe Intentional Homeschooler024: Experiencing Homeschool Burnout? Check your Energy Levels!Are you burned out? Are you running on empty? Watch your energy levels! When doing hard things, we need to keep our energy levels up.Homeschooling is challenging yet rewarding.Benefits: Personalized learning, strong family bonds, flexible education.Maintaining energy is crucial for long-term success and engagement.Four key areas for boosting energy: Spiritual Health, Mindset Health, Physical Health, Productivity/Work Habits.1. Spiritual Health:Energy Zapper: Neglecting Bible study and prayer.Energy Giver: Daily time in the Word and prayer (start small and build).Energy Zapper: Lack of accountability.Energy Giver: Accountability partner with regular check-ins...2025-02-0615 minThe Intentional Homeschooler023: Want to Foster Creative Thinkers? Why Art is Crucial in Your Homeschool Curriclum & How to Teach It.Today, Erika Sagert discusses how to enrich your homeschool through art.Key Takeaway: Art is more than just pretty pictures; it's a powerful tool for developing creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.Why is Art Important? Art stimulates the brain, reduces stress, improves academic performance (especially in reading, writing, and math), boosts engagement, and prepares kids for careers requiring innovation. As Einstein said, "Imagination will take you everywhere."How to Incorporate Art:Keep it Simple: Focus on the creative process, not perfection. Use readily available materials and create a...2025-01-2316 minThe Intentional Homeschooler022: Will I Mess up My Kids by Homeschooling? Common Questions Answered.This episode addresses common questions and concerns surrounding homeschooling, offering encouragement and practical advice for families considering this educational path.Segment 1: Addressing the Fear of "Messing Up" Your KidsQuestion: Will I mess my kids up?This segment tackles the common fear of negatively impacting children through homeschooling.Key takeaways: Intentionality and community support are key.Homeschooling can be a gift.Focus on continuous improvement and self-reflection.Segment 2: Curriculum and ResourcesQuestion: What in the world will I teach?This segment addresses the overwhelm of curriculum choices.Key takeaways: Many comprehensive curricula are available. Re...2025-01-0916 min
Difference MakersDM 2024-12-20 - Hope Learning Center Erika Sagert and Rick Bruflat - PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2025-01-0350 minThe Intentional Homeschooler021: What Am I Going to Make For Dinner? Freezer Meals to the Rescue!Join Erika Sagert as she addresses the common thought: "Freezer meals sound like a lot of work." She emphasizes the long-term benefits of a stocked freezer, and shows how freezer meals are a game-changer for everyone, regardless of cooking experience.Tip 1: Community CookingTeaming up with friends/family for freezer meal prep.Example: 10 women bringing 10 meal kits each, dividing costs, and getting a variety of meals.Fun and efficient way to stock freezers.Tip 2: Freezer PacksFreezing individual components instead of entire meals.Examples:Pizza dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings (assemble and bake later).Dump Chicken: Marinated chicken...2024-12-2615 minThe Intentional Homeschooler020 Can't Get Everything Done? Try These Four Daily Rituals to Get the Important Stuff Done!Topic: Daily Rituals: Your Anchor in a Chaotic SeaDaily rituals, such as the “Morning Ritual,” “School Day Startup,”” School Day Shutdown,” and “Evening Ritual,” can provide structure and peace in a chaotic world, increasing productivity and well-being.Identify Non-Negotiables:Determine essential tasks that must be done daily.Consider incorporating elements from popular routines like Jim Kwik's MEDS or Hal Elrod's SAVERS.Morning Ritual:Early Rising: The importance of waking up early, even if it's just 10-20 minutes before anyone else in the house.Personal Time: Dedicate time for quiet activities like meditation, prayer, or reading.Physi...2024-12-1218 minThe Intentional Homeschooler019: Classical Literature: Explore my Tried and True List of Classics for Young MindsAre you looking to introduce your child to the world of classic literature? Join us as we explore a curated list of timeless classics that offer a unique window into the human experience. From adventurous tales to thought-provoking social commentary, these books will captivate young minds and inspire lifelong learning.Key Topics:The benefits of reading classic literatureHow to choose age-appropriate classicsA curated list of classic literature recommendationsTips for encouraging a love of readingClassic Literature Recommendations:Adventure and Imagination:Around the World in 80 DaysSwiss Family RobinsonTom SawyerThe Chronicles...2024-11-2815 minThe Intentional Homeschooler018 Navigating Learning Disabilities in HomeschoolingToday, we're diving deep into the world of learning disabilities, a topic often misunderstood and stigmatized. We'll discuss the challenges homeschooling parents face when dealing with these unique learning styles and the importance of seeking appropriate support.Key Points:The Stigma: Many homeschooling parents are hesitant to acknowledge learning disabilities due to fear of judgment and the belief that they're failing as educators.The Impact of Undiagnosed Learning Disabilities: Undiagnosed learning disabilities can significantly hinder a child's academic progress and overall well-being.The Importance of Early Intervention: Early identification and intervention can significantly impact a child's...2024-11-1417 minThe Intentional Homeschooler017: Deep Cleaning Tips for Around the HouseDeep Cleaning Tips for Around the HouseIntroductionTired of ignoring the grime and dirt lurking in your home? Wish there was a magical solution? While wishing upon a star might not do the trick, deep cleaning can transform your space. Join us as we dive into the nitty-gritty of cleaning those often-overlooked corners, crevices, and hidden dirt. Let's tackle this together and give your home the fresh start it deserves!SuppliesBefore you begin, gather your favorite cleaning supplies or consider making your own. Some essentials include:...2024-10-1715 minThe Intentional Homeschooler016 Mindset Shifts That Cultivate Confidence and Productivity for Homeschool MomsJoin Erika Sagert on The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast as she discusses minding your mindset. Our mindset plays a crucial role in determining our successes and our failures. If we believe in our abilities and potential, we will likely take the necessary steps to achieve our goals. Conversely, if we doubt ourselves, we limit our efforts and ultimately fall short of achieving our goals.Key Points:A healthy mindset begins with being thankful.Keep a thankful list. It will shift your perspective.Mind your mindset by challenging how you interpret your narrative.Challenge the...2024-10-0315 minThe Intentional Homeschooler015: The Science of Wonder: Inspiring Curiosity at HomeJoin Erika Sagert on the Intentional Homeschooler Podcast as she discusses creating a stimulating and engaging science learning environment right in your home. Discover practical ideas for all grade levels, from kindergarten through high school, to spark curiosity, encourage experimentation, and foster a lifelong love of science.Key Points:Importance of Hands-On Learning: The best way to teach science is through hands-on activities, open-ended questions, and independent discovery.Creating a Science-Friendly Home: Incorporate science into everyday activities like cooking, gardening, and exploring the outdoors.Grade-Specific Tips:Kindergarten - 5th Grade: Focus on discovery...2024-09-1913 minThe Intentional Homeschooler014 Navigating the Chaos: A Few Tips for Homeschooling Multi-Age KidsJoin us as we explore the world of homeschooling multiple ages at one time. We will discover practical strategies for combining lessons, teaching in a "family style," involving older children, utilizing independent activities, and implementing a flexible schedule. We will also discuss the importance of chore time and creating a harmonious learning environment.Key Takeaways:Combine lessons: Adapt curriculum for different ages to streamline learning. Teach to the middle when possible.Teach in “family style”: Foster community with shared activities like morning time or afternoon family activities.Involve older children: Empower older siblings to assist with youn...2024-09-0612 minThe Intentional Homeschooler013: Organzing tips around the house: a few practical strategies for a tidier home.Join Erika Sagert as she dives into the world of organization. Whether you're a neat freak or a proud clutterbug, this episode offers practical tips to help you create more organized and harmonious spaces in your home. From kitchen hacks to bedroom routines, Erika shares her favorite strategies for keeping your home environment tidy and efficient.Key Points:The Benefits of Organization: Discover how staying organized can improve productivity, reduce stress, and create a more peaceful home environment.Kitchen Organization: Learn how to streamline kitchen tasks with clever storage solutions, meal-planning strategies, and...2024-08-2214 minThe Intentional Homeschooler012 Mama Care: How do I find time to tend to my needs as a busy homeschooling mom?In this episode, Erika Sagert discusses the importance "Mama Care" for homeschooling moms. Erika emphasizes that taking time for yourself isn't selfish but necessary for maintaining mental and physical health. Using humor and practical advice, Erika offers tips for incorporating self-care into a busy mom's life.Key Points:The importance and the "why" of self-care for moms.Practical tips for finding time for self-care.The benefits of self-care for moms and their families.Actionable Steps:Prioritize spiritual growth through quiet time.Incorporate exercise into your daily routine.Focus on nutrition and...2024-08-0816 minThe Intentional Homeschooler011 Building a Strong Math FoundationThis episode delves into the challenges and strategies for math instruction in homeschooling. This episode breaks down the stages of math development and the significance of choosing the right curriculum. Links specific to this show:IXL:https://www.ixl.com/Khan Academy:https://www.khanacademy.org/Book a virtual coffee chat with Erika:https://calendly.com/erika-sagert-hope-learning-center/coffee-chat-with-erika-sagertTo carry on the conversation, join our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/HopeLearningCenter2/...2024-07-2517 minThe Intentional Homeschooler010 What is my legal responsibility for homeschooling my children?What is the homeschooling law in my state? Does my state have a homeschooling law? In this episode, I discuss what you need to know about your state’s homeschool laws.In Washington:You must be the primary teacher.Meet the teacher requirements (4 ways to do this).File a “Declaration of Intent to Homeschool.”Teach all the required subjects.Teach a minimum of 180 days/1,000 hours per year.Participate in annual testing.This is all for students aged 8-18In Oregon:Send a one-time notice of Intent to homeschoolHave your student tested in 3rd...2024-07-1112 minThe Intentional Homeschooler009 Raising Responsible Rockstars: The Power of Household Chores.This episode is about getting your kids involved in housework and keeping your house clean without losing your sanity! Erika discusses the importance of chores for teaching responsibility and life skills and offers tips for creating a system that works for your family.Key Points:Clear expectations: Create checklists with step-by-step instructions for chores.Make it fun: Use music, games, or rewards to keep things lighthearted.Chore charts: Use a visual chart to track progress and responsibilities.Laundry duty: Start kids doing their laundry as early as 3 or 4 years old.Zoning: Divide the...2024-06-2715 minThe Intentional Homeschooler008 Make History Come AliveThis episode of The Intentional Homeschooler argues that history can be a fascinating subject when presented engagingly. Host Erika Sagert discusses the importance of studying history and offers practical tips for homeschooling parents.Why Study History?Learn from the past (mistakes and successes)Distinguish heroes from villainsUnderstand human natureDevelop resilience by appreciating modern conveniencesConnect with othersChallenges of History EducationHistory revisionism can make it difficult to find reliable sources.Focusing on critical thinking skills to evaluate information takes time.Utilize primary sources (firsthand accounts) for a more objective perspective.Practical Tips for Teaching HistoryBegin with family...2024-06-1314 minThe Intentional Homeschooler007 Pursuing Excellence in Homeschooling How do we pursue excellence in homeschooling? Why is it important? How do I model excellence without modeling vanity? As Christians, we pursue excellence for the glory of God. We do this to reflect God's character, honor God with our abilities, become responsible stewards, and to grow personally. Key points:Excellence is not about perfection or appearance. It's about using your abilities to your God-given potential and striving for moral excellence.Pursue excellence unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24). This means doing your best for God's glory, not for external validation.Excellence is a journe...2024-05-3010 minThe Intentional Homeschooler006 Menu Planning MagicEver feel overwhelmed by the nightly "What's for dinner?" question? This episode is packed with actionable tips for creating a menu plan that works for your family, reduces stress, saves money, and keeps everyone well-fed.The Power of Meal Planning:Creates a calmer dinner routine.Saves time and money.Encourages family connection.Building a Master Menu List:Gather all your favorite recipes in one place. Organize by meal type or category for easy browsing.Creating Your Weekly Plan:Consider your family's schedule and activities.Include a variety of proteins and meals to...2024-05-1614 minThe Intentional Homeschooler005 What About English Curriculum?Whether you’re a seasoned homeschool mom or just starting, navigating the world of English Language Arts can feel overwhelming. Fear not! I’m here to give you tools, resources, and encouragement for your journey. Today, I will provide some ideas to make English fun and engaging while sparking a love for reading and writing.Tailor your ELA plan to your child's needs and interests, not a predetermined scope and sequence.Age Group: Kindergarten - Grade 2Focus on fostering a love for language through exploration and discovery.Read aloud extensively.Implement a strong phon...2024-05-0216 minThe Intentional Homeschooler004 Prioritize Like a Pro-The Jar of Life Analogy HackDo you feel like your homeschool day is a chaotic scramble? You wake up with a to-do list a mile long and haven’t even made a dent by bedtime? Here, I will walk you through the steps of categorizing tasks into rocks (essential tasks), pebbles (important but not essential tasks), and water (the unexpected). By prioritizing rocks and pebbles first, homeschool moms can ensure they spend their time on what matters most.Key Takeaways:The "Jar of Life" analogy helps visualize how to prioritize tasks and schedule your day.Rocks represent the mo...2024-04-1810 minThe Intentional Homeschooler003 Four Homeschool Myths - BustedThis episode tackles common myths about homeschooling and offers encouragement to homeschooling parents.Here are the myths debunked:Myth #1: Homeschoolers are all gifted or highly academic.Reality: Homeschooled children can struggle academically, and some homeschool because of those struggles.Advice: Seek help if your child needs it, just like you would in a traditional school setting.Myth #2: Homeschoolers aren't socialized.Reality: Homeschoolers can have rich social experiences through family time, groups, and activities.Advice: Make sure your homeschooled child has opportunities to interact with people outside your family.Myth #3: Homeschool moms are super patient.Reality: Homeschooling...2024-04-0412 minThe Intentional Homeschooler002 Am I Doing Enough?Hey homeschool mom! In this episode, I tackle the ever-present question: Am I doing enough? We all ask it, and it can be a real drain on our energy and confidence. I am here to tell you, you’ve got this!In this episode, I’ll share 4 actionable steps to help you answer this nagging question:Find your why: Reflect on your reasons for homeschooling. Is it about providing a faith-based education? Tailoring learning to your child’s unique pace and interests? Or maybe you crave more family time and flexibility. Knowing your why wi...2024-04-0410 minThe Intentional Homeschooler001 Welcome to The Intentional HomeschoolerHello and welcome to the Intentional Homescooler Podcast! I’m Erika Sagert, and I'm here to encourage you in your homeschooling journey! I have been a teacher and homeschooling mama for over twenty years. I am also the director of Hope Learning Center, a learning center for homeschoolers in the Vancouver, WA area. I created this podcast to guide you through your homeschooling journey. I will share my victories and losses with you so you can navigate your homeschooling journey with confidence and energy.I look forward to creating a new episode every other Thur...2024-04-0406 min
The Homeschool Advantage PodcastErika Sagert With Hope Learning Center: A Christ Centered WorldView EducationIntro
Erika Sagert is one of the teachers of the Hope Learning Center. Erika knew from a very young age that she wanted to be a teacher. Her grandmother and mother were both teachers and being able to realize this dream from such an early age has been nothing but a blessing in her life." Erika took a hiatus from teaching to raise her four children and once her oldest grew to school age, it was a natural transition to begin homeschooling.
For many of those homeschooling years, Erika taught classes in different locations and in 2...2024-03-1117 minThe Intentional HomeschoolerThe Intentional Homeschooler TrailerComing soon! The Intentional Homeschooler Podcast. Homeschoolers, are you constantly juggling lesson plans, family relationships, and your to-dos? Do you feel overwhelmed by it all? In this podcast, you will gain practical ideas with hearty doses of encouragement for your homeschooling journey. It will quickly become your lifeline to sanity!Follow or subscribe now so you never miss an episode.2024-02-2902 min
Spacing RadioThe Overhead: The Financialization of a Housing CrisisThe days of the "mom-and-pop" landlord are largely behind us. Now, housing units are being snapped up or developed by large corporate entities and private equity firms. It can be hard to figure out who actually owns a building. Homes being treated like major sources of capital, instead of places for people to live.
This is a major factor in the housing crisis, pushes people who are renting out of their homes and neighbourhoods, and changes the physical and social fabric of communities.
Erika Sagert, policy manager for the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, has been trying to identify just how m...2023-07-2749 min