Shows
Art of Homeschooling PodcastHow Art Anchors Learning at HomeEP234: Art anchors learning at home and can serve as a powerful tool for teaching across all subject areas.In this episode of the Art of Homeschooling Podcast, Jean is joined by guest Robyn Beaufoy, CEO of Waldorfish. The award-winning Weekly Art Foundations program created by Waldorfish offers a guided path for parents to bring art to their children at home.Robyn and Jean explore how art makes learning more memorable while also building key skills like focus, perseverance, and problem-solving.Join us in sharing your artistic creations on...2025-07-2836 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastWaldorf Homeschooling in 2025EP232: What does Waldorf homeschooling look like in 2025? How has the homeschooling landscape and the Waldorf homeschooling movement changed? And what remains steady at the heart of Waldorf homeschooling?Join Jean on the Art of Homeschooling podcast this week to explore the changing landscape of Waldorf homeschooling as families seek a more connected, creative, and holistic approach to educating their children at home.Find the Show Notes here https://artofhomeschooling.com/episode232/If this episode resonates with you as a Waldorf-inspired homeschooler in 2025, please join Jean and her team at...2025-06-3017 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastPermission to Pause: Sometimes We Need to Scale BackEP220: Life’s challenges sometimes demand that we slow down or scale back, whether we like it or not. You always have permission to pause!In this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast, Jean shares her own recent experiences of navigating stress, uncertainty, and caregiving while reflecting on past homeschooling seasons filled with ups and downs. She reminds us that scaling back is not a failure ~ it’s part of the rhythm of life.With warmth and honesty, Jean explores the mindset shift that allows us to embrace life’s curveballs without guilt. And offers...2025-03-3114 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastHomeschooling Through Life's CurveballsEP219: Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs our way, and homeschooling adds unique layers to these challenges. Have you ever found yourself wondering how to keep your educational journey on track amidst the chaos of life's unpredictable events? Join Jean Miller as she shares personal insights from her own family's experience homeschooling through challenges and finding resilience amidst the chaos. This episode of the Art of Homeschooling Podcast is a heartfelt guide to transforming these difficult times into opportunities for growth and connection, with encouraging tips and three specific strategies for st...2025-02-2411 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastDeep vs. Wide: A Waldorf Homeschooling PerspectiveEP218: A question from the Art of Homeschooling community inspired this podcast episode covering the concept of deep vs. wide from a Waldorf homeschooling perspective.In this episode, Jean describes how to build a main lesson block around a significant and pivotal event in the course of human development. This idea can be applied to teaching any topic from world or national history to geography and science. Jean illustrates the development of a main lesson topic through the "deep dive wave" and provides concrete examples and insightful reflections.Why and how does diving...2025-02-1718 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastFresh Start EnergyEP212: Harness the energy of a fresh start to transform your homeschooling journey this year.In this episode of the podcast, Jean shares three new strategies to kindle your inner spark and inspiration after a transition such as the holiday season and New Year's.Sometimes, the post-holiday shift can be even harder than the beginning of a brand-new homeschooling year in the fall.Jean's three strategies will help you embrace this season's emphasis on inner growth so you can feel more grounded and connected to yourself and your children. S...2025-01-0613 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastThe Science of Reading & Waldorf EducationEP209: Welcome to a deep dive into the science of reading and Waldorf education. On this episode of the podcast, Jean is joined by her assistant Sarah to share with you new insights about the literacy journey through the holistic lens of Waldorf education.Waldorf education, since its founding in 1919, has evolved significantly. And homeschoolers are in a unique position to weave together “responsible innovation” in the Waldorf movement with new insights and research about human brain development.Jean and Sarah discuss all things literacy ~ from oral language development to content knowledge, from neural pathways to s...2024-12-0246 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastYour Permission Slip for SimpleEP208: Dear homeschooler, ever feel like life’s chaos is hijacking your brain? Listen in as experienced homeschooler and mentor Jean Miller offers you a permission slip for simple.Our brain often misinterprets emotional stress as physical danger, which is a phenomenon known as amygdala hijacking.In this episode of the podcast, Jean offers practical strategies that will be a balm for your nervous system.The 20-20-20 Rule and Handwork + Stories can provide much-needed ease and simplicity for times when homeschooling and life become overwhelming.Because connection, not perfection, ...2024-11-2511 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastIt's Never All or Nothing with HomeschoolingEP206: Juggling homeschooling lessons during busy seasons can feel overwhelming and discouraging. But what if you could shift your mindset to help you navigate? Because the truth is ~ it’s never all or nothing!Join Jean on the podcast as she uncovers how to transform fears, anxiety, and self-doubt into self-assurance with personal anecdotes from her homeschooling journey and simple, doable ideas.When anxiety and overwhelm surface in homeschooling, mini-blocks can offer an easy way to create structure and build connection with your kiddos. Just showing up and getting st...2024-11-0414 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastThe Power of ReflectionEP205: Have you ever considered the power of reflection?Reflection can truly transform your homeschooling journey. In this episode, you'll hear how reflection uncovers new possibilities and cultivates gratitude, leading to significant breakthroughs and increased compassion in your homeschool. Listen in as Jean shares practical tips and insightful questions to guide your reflective practice. This is the very same practice Jean leads homeschoolers through every month within the Inspired at Home community.Find the Show Notes Here https://artofhomeschooling.com/episode205/Send Jean a text message.C...2024-10-2813 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastThe Sixth Grade BasketEP204: Discover the magic of making geology and the Roman Empire come alive for your sixth grader with the Waldorf-inspired approach to homeschooling. In this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast, Jean invites you to explore how the lively arts and compelling stories can transform these subjects from mundane to magnificent. Reflecting on her personal homeschooling journey with her three children and insights from countless families, Jean gives you practical tools and resources to foster a holistic, engaging learning experience that resonates with your child’s developmental stage. Listen in for how homeschooling shifts in the upper elementary gr...2024-10-2115 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastIn a Homeschooling Funk?EP203: What happens when homeschooling feels hard because of circumstances beyond our control? As someone who's been through it, I know the "homeschooling funk" all too well. It's that burnout that sneaks up when life throws curveballs like moving, health challenges, or broader global events. Join me, Jean Miller, as I share heartfelt stories and gentle strategies to calm your nervous system and reclaim your mojo. Together, we'll explore how to shake up routines with fresh activities, release the weight of worry by focusing on core family values, and embrace self-care as a tool for resilience. This isn't just...2024-10-1412 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastAll Education is Self-EducationEP202: What if you could empower your child to take control of their own education journey, transforming your role from instructor to guide? This episode explores this captivating concept by drawing inspiration from Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy, emphasizing that education is fundamentally self-directed. That's the end goal, after all. Listen in for the metaphor of the "four baskets" which illustrates how the responsibility for learning gradually shifts from the parent to the child. Plus, Jean shares three tips for embracing the idea of self-education through the years of our homeschooling journey. Find the Show Notes Her...2024-10-0716 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastDitching the DogmaEP200: Is it time to rethink your homeschooling approach? Discover innovative ways to customize the Waldorf approach with our special guest, Robyn Beaufoy from Waldorfish, on our landmark 200th episode! Robyn takes us through her fascinating journey from park ranger to Waldorf educator, highlighting the significance of breaking free from rigid educational dogma. Explore the child-centered, developmental approach that sets Waldorf education apart. In this episode, Robyn and Jean delve into the dogma that often surrounds the Waldorf approach and how "trying to do it right" can feel like a game of telephone, where the original intent...2024-09-2342 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastThe Homeschooling Journey: An Update from JeanEP199: What if you could navigate your homeschooling journey with confidence and clarity? Join Jean as she invites you to step into her 25+ year homeschooling journey, offering a treasure trove of insights and heartfelt stories in this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast. From the early days of uncertainty to watching her three children thrive as adults, she shares the lessons learned and the wisdom gained, reminding you that while the days may feel long, the years are indeed short. Listen in as Jean explores the themes of patience, self-compassion, and the joy of connection over...2024-09-1613 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastThe Perfectly Imperfect HomeschoolEP198: Ever caught yourself endlessly tweaking your homeschooling plans without actually starting? It's time to break free from "procrastiplanning" and embrace the journey with confidence! Join Jean on the Art of Homeschooling podcast as we tackle the chaotic transition into a new homeschooling year. Discover practical advice and real-life examples to help you move past the urge to perfect every detail and instead, take imperfect action. It's the doing that truly counts, and Jean will show you how to start with what you have. Plus, you'll hear about her conversations with fellow homeschooling parents who feel the pressure to...2024-09-0910 min
Art of Homeschooling Podcast4 Questions to Go from Stuck to UnstuckEP196: Feeling stuck in your homeschooling? Discover how to break free from overwhelm and confidently make decisions in your homeschool with four transformative questions to help you overcome the overwhelm. In this episode, Jean shares actionable insights tailored to help you navigate the myriad of choices, from curriculum selection to planning lessons. Learn how to focus on micro-tasks and eliminate unnecessary options, ensuring a more streamlined and effective homeschooling experience.Find the Show Notes Here (www.artofhomeschooling.com/episode196)Inspired at Home Membership (www.artofhomeschooling.com/inspiredathome)Send Jean a text message.2024-08-2612 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastPause & Reflect to Reconnect with Your Homeschool PurposeEP195: Imagine starting your homeschooling day with a calm sense of purpose and ending it with a moment of peaceful reflection. In this episode, Jean shares how incorporating a simple daily practice into your day can transform your homeschooling journey. Learn how these moments of inner work can boost your self-control, positivity, and open-mindedness, creating a more centered and connected atmosphere for both you and your children. Hear a beautiful passage from The Parent's Tao Te Ching that emphasizes the importance of allowing your kids to follow their interests and unleash their creativity.Find the Show Notes...2024-08-1912 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastDon't Forget to Let the Learning RestEP194: Does your homeschooling journey feel like it's all go, go, go? In this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast, Jean shares a transformative idea that might be the very key to unlocking deeper learning for your children: the art of letting learning rest. Drawing from the experiences and insights from the annual Taproot Teacher Training, Jean explains how integrating periods of rest into your teaching schedule can lead to more meaningful and lasting educational outcomes. Inspired by Rudolf Steiner's lesson rhythm, this episode uncovers why it's vital to allow children time to absorb and process new concepts...2024-08-1209 min
Art of Homeschooling PodcastCreate Your Homeschool Vision FirstEP189: Can starting with a vision instead of a curriculum revolutionize your homeschooling experience? Discover how to create a personalized, realistic plan that meets your child's unique needs and aligns with your family's lifestyle in this episode of the Art of Homeschooling podcast. Drawing from over 25 years of homeschooling and 15 years of coaching, Jean Miller shares invaluable tips on crafting a homeschool vision that simplifies your plans, prevents overwhelm, and sets you up for success. Learn why rushing to buy resources can backfire and how a clear, customized vision can make your homeschooling journey more fulfilling.Find...2024-07-0110 minArt of Homeschooling PodcastGardening with ChildrenEP186: What if you could cultivate in your children a love for growing things? Listen in as we explore the numerous benefits of gardening with children. From improving mood and reducing stress to fostering a love of fresh, homegrown food, gardening offers a treasure trove of rewards. In this episode, Jean shares personal anecdotes from her own family's time spent on a local CSA farm and also time gardening in the backyard where her kids learned the value of meaningful work and developed a passion for nature and healthful eating. You'll also get practical tips and creative project ideas...2024-06-1014 minArt of Homeschooling PodcastForeign Language Learning at HomeEP183: How can we help our children learn a foreign language at home? Try using stories! Listen in as Jean talks with Jennifer Moscato of One Third Stories all about how stories and hands-on activities can help parents teach a foriegn language at home even when they haven't learned the language themselves. As a stay-at-home mom turned educator and entrepreneur, Jennifer brings a relatable warmth to our conversation, blending her rich experiences with the innovative principles of Waldorf education. This episode dives into the practicalities of One Third Stories' unique method, showcasing how curated story boxes become...2024-05-2039 minArt of Homeschooling PodcastFinding Your Flow as a HomeschoolerEP180: Have you ever considered that the secret to a seamless homeschooling rhythm might actually be about tuning into your own needs as a parent? Take a cue from Elizabeth Gilbert's book, Big Magic, and join Jean Miller to explore how dedication to your own path can significantly influence your homeschooling success. This episode promises to shift perspectives, offering you a fresh take on finding your educational flow, not just for your children, but for yourself as well. By sharing personal anecdotes and stories, Jean guides you through the transformative process of integrating your passions into your daily rhythm...2024-04-2918 minArt of Homeschooling PodcastBeautiful Books That Connect Kids to NatureEP178: This week on the podcast, we're exploring how the natural world can play a role in our homeschooling adventures. I'm sharing a treasure trove of resources to help you get outdoors more with beautiful books full of hands-on experiences and great read-aloud stories. Listen to Jean's favorites for each season of the year and then be sure to check out the show notes at artofhomeschooling.com/episode178 for a curated list of nature-inspired books and more tips to guide you through each season no matter where you live or what season you're in.Find the Show...2024-04-1514 minArt of Homeschooling PodcastHow to Promote Independent LearningEP174: Explore the world of homeschooling with Jean Miller as she draws from a rich tapestry of over two decades of fostering independent learners to show how to promote independent learning. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for any parent embracing the role of educator, revealing how to nurture a child's innate curiosity and gently shift from teacher-led instruction to encouraging self-motivated learning. Jean shares personal anecdotes from raising her three children and the joy of witnessing their transformation into lifelong learners. Discover practical strategies for balancing structured lessons and free exploration, and gain the...2024-03-1813 min