Does your high school student take courses outside the standard curriculum?

In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen explain when outside study belongs on a transcript, what records you should keep, and how to simplify documenting independent study courses.

Show Notes:

Isn’t homeschooling high school tough enough? Why would anyone want to ADD courses to an already busy schedule?

Sometimes, you have a very good reason.

Your student may be studying advanced math, taking college classes, pursuing the fine arts, or learning a language outside the standard curriculum. When that happens, you need to know what belongs on a transcript and how to document it.

1. KNOW WHEN RECORDS MATTER

Elementary enrichment usually doesn’t need to appear on a transcript.

High school credit is different.

• Algebra I taken in eighth grade
• College or online courses, foreign language study
• Fine arts training or courses required by a state or college

This is key: If you want high school credit, keep records.

2. CHECK YOUR SCHOOL’S RULES

Before designing an outside course, check with your home study school.

• Will the course count toward graduation?
• Can it replace a required course?
• Does it need prior approval? And what documentation will be required?

Seton offers an Independent Study approval process for qualifying outside coursework.

3. GET APPROVAL EARLY

Don’t assume an outside course will automatically satisfy a graduation requirement.

A community college science course, online language class, or other program may be excellent—but your school may have specific requirements.

Remember: Approval is much easier to obtain before the course is completed than after.

4. THINK ABOUT THE FUTURE

If your student has an idea of where he or she may pursue further education, investigate admission requirements early.

Requirements can vary for:

• Colleges
• Conservatories
• State universities
• Specialized programs

Those requirements may influence the courses your student should take now.

5. RECORD THREE BASIC THINGS

A simple course record should include:

• Course name
• Materials or outside classes used
• Grade earned

For example:

Algebra I — Saxon Algebra I — 92

That may be all you need for a straightforward academic course.

6. DOCUMENTING UNUSUAL COURSES

Some courses require more explanation.

A fine arts course might include:

• Weekly lessons and daily practice
• Voice lessons
• Choir and theatre rehearsals and performances

Include schedules, teacher evaluations, grades, programs, or other evidence when helpful.

Hint: Give administrators enough information to understand what your student accomplished.

7. FULL OR HALF CREDIT?

As a general rule of thumb:

• A full-credit course requires about five hours of coursework per week
• A half-credit course may require about three hours per week

Keep enough records to show that the course was substantial.

8. KEEP THE FUTURE IN MIND

We may homeschool as if our children will always be learning at the kitchen table. They won’t.

Eventually, they may:

• Apply to college
• Enter a conservatory
• Transfer schools or pursue other opportunities

Finally: A little planning and recordkeeping will simplify your student’s next step.

A Final Encouragement

Transcripts don’t have to be complicated. Know what your student needs, check requirements early, document outside coursework, and keep good records. You’ll be glad you did.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Independent Study

A Blank, Fillable Homeschool Transcript Form from Southern Utah University

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

Homeschooling teenagers brings new freedoms—and new challenges. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical advice for helping teens manage schoolwork, use technology wisely, and gradually take responsibility for the choices that will shape their lives as adults.

Show Notes:

Laurie contacted us on Facebook and asked for advice about homeschooling teens. Since both of us homeschooled children through high school graduation, she came to the right place.

The teen years will be much easier if you start preparing before those pesky hormones arrive.

1. ESTABLISH AUTHORITY EARLY

You don’t need to be mean or harsh. But you will never regret teaching your children obedience and respect.

• Set reasonable rules and expect respectful behavior
• Teach self-control
• Follow through

This is key: Teenagers don’t suddenly develop self-discipline on their thirteenth birthday.

2. TEACH PRACTICAL SKILLS

Before high school, children should already be contributing to family life.

• Load the dishwasher and do laundry
• Vacuum and mop
• Mow the lawn and wash the car

As they get older, encourage them to take ownership of household responsibilities.

Hint: You may begin to see your teenager as a contributing member of the family.

3. EXPECT COURTESY

Modesty matters—but so does how teenagers speak and behave.

Teach them to say:

• Please and thank you
• Do you mind?
• How can I help?

Teenagers should also understand that younger siblings are watching them.

4. HAVE AN ACADEMIC PLAN

Teenagers should take increasing responsibility for their schoolwork, but they still need a plan.

• Set timelines and make expectations clear
• Check progress regularly
• Watch subjects they tend to avoid

It is very easy for a teen to work on favorite subjects and suddenly discover in May that chemistry or English is barely started.

5. CHECK IN REGULARLY

Independence does not mean no oversight.

Set a regular time to review:

• What has been completed and what is falling behind
• What needs more attention
• What deadlines are coming

Remember: Teens tend to work on the subjects they like first.

6. WATCH THE DEVICES

Teens may need computers for assignments and phones for driving and GPS.

But social media can be toxic.

• Use parental oversight tools and know what your children are using
• Establish device rules
• Consider a family charging station at night

Good kids still need protection.

7. KEEP THEM BUSY

A solid high school day still leaves plenty of time.

Fill some of it with:

• Paid work
• Volunteer work
• Sports, music, dance, theatre

Productive activity helps teenagers develop skills, responsibility, and confidence.

8. DON’T ARGUE

Even good teenagers will test the rules.

Increasingly, they should experience the consequences of their own choices.

When Mom and Dad do need to step in, be clear and firm.

Finally: Don’t waste hours arguing or trying to make your teenager admit that you are wise. You may be waiting a very long time.

A Final Encouragement

The goal of homeschooling a teenager isn’t to control every decision. It is to gradually prepare a young person to manage schoolwork, responsibilities, relationships, technology, and eventually life without you standing over his or her shoulder.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

How do you homeschool when a baby needs your attention all day—or when that baby becomes a very busy toddler? In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical ways to adjust your schedule, use nap times, involve older children, get help, and keep homeschooling through the baby years.

Show Notes:

Annalise contacted us on Facebook with a pressing question: How can Mom homeschool when she has a baby who demands lots and lots of attention?

She came to the right place.

The first thing to remember is that homeschooling does not have to look like a traditional school day.

1. FORGET SCHOOL HOURS

Young children do not need six hours of school.

• Work during naps
• K–3 may take only a few hours
• Use weekends when necessary
• Finish something after Dad gets home

This is key: You do not need to recreate public-school hours at home.

2. ADJUST THE SCHOOL YEAR

Homeschoolers do not have to follow a traditional school calendar.

Having a baby in early January? - Extend Christmas break.

Need more time later? - Take it.

Remember: Nothing says you have to finish school by June 1.

3. TRY “BED SCHOOL”

The first days and weeks after giving birth can be exhausting.

Keep the baby nearby and do school from bed.

• Read aloud and do more work orally
• Use a lap desk
• Let older siblings spend time with the baby

You can recover while keeping school moving gently forward.

4. KEEP BABY CLOSE

When you’re ready to return to the table, keep the newborn nearby.

Babies often enjoy watching family life. When the baby needs you, pick him up, feed him, and continue when you can.

Hint: Babies often become accustomed to the normal noise and rhythm of family life.

5. ESTABLISH NAP TIMES

Newborns sleep a lot. Try to establish predictable quiet times as early as you reasonably can.

Nap schedules will change, but a dependable quiet period can make homeschooling much easier.

And you may appreciate that routine even more when the baby becomes a toddler.

6. EXPECT TODDLER TROUBLE

Frankly, newborns can be a piece of cake compared with toddlers.

Once Junior becomes mobile, everything changes.

• Save special toys for school time
• Call the blocks “schoolwork”
• Move lessons outside when weather allows
• Use nap time for focused work

Remember: This stage won’t last forever.

7. ROTATE THE OLDER CHILDREN

Older siblings can help.

One child can play with the toddler while you work with another. Then switch.

• Mom gets focused teaching time
• The toddler gets attention
• Older children learn responsibility

This doesn’t mean turning older children into substitute parents. It means allowing family members to help one another.

8. GET HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT

There is no disgrace in hiring a college student or homeschool teenager for an hour or two to take the toddler outside or to the park.

Sometimes a little help can transform the entire day.

Finally: And again, there is always nap time!

A Final Encouragement

Homeschooling with a baby—or a toddler—requires flexibility more than perfection. Adjust your schedule. Use nap times. Let older children help. Take breaks when you need them. Your homeschool may look different during this season, and that is perfectly fine.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

Did you begin homeschooling to escape a problem with traditional school? That may have brought you home—but it’s only the beginning. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen explore how homeschooling gives families the freedom to travel, learn, and discover opportunities far beyond the traditional classroom.

Show Notes:

Many families begin homeschooling when a local option isn’t working. The local school is a poor fit. Catholic school is too expensive or too far away. So, they bring their children home and immediately start looking for a co-op or hybrid school to replace what they left behind. But homeschooling is more than a safe alternative. Done well, it opens the world to your children.

1. MAKE TIME YOUR ADVANTAGE

Homeschooling often takes less time than a traditional school day.

• Primary grades may take only an hour or two
• Middle school can often be finished by lunchtime
• High school students can increasingly work independently
• A little planning may even make a four-day school week possible

This is key: The goal isn’t to recreate a seven-hour school day at home.

2. USE YOUR COMMUNITY

Your community may be full of educational opportunities.

• Zoos and museums - Planetariums and historic churches
• Hiking trails and county fairs - Libraries and local history museums
• 4-H and homeschool programs

Go with another homeschool family—or go with your own.

Remember: You do not need to join a co-op to have a rich homeschool life.

3. TRAVEL WHEN OTHERS CAN’T

Homeschoolers can travel during less crowded and less expensive times.

• Visit Washington, D.C., and its free museums
• Explore state capitals and historic sites
• Camp your way across the country - take advantage of national park programs

Education doesn’t have to stop because you left the house.

4. SCHEDULE LESSONS DIFFERENTLY

The best piano, dance, art, or skating teacher in town may be booked after school.

But what happens when you say, “My child can come at 10:30 on Tuesday morning”?

Suddenly, there may be an opening.

Hint: Your flexible schedule provides access many other families don’t have.

5. LOOK BEYOND SCHOOL SPORTS

Your budding athlete may have more opportunities outside the local high school.

• Community sports leagues
• Little League or Pony League
• Club and travel teams
• American Legion teams for advanced players

A school team has only so many spots. Look around for better opportunities elsewhere.

6. FIND OTHER STAGES

The same is true for the arts.

• Community theatre
• Dance academies
• Local music groups and church choirs

School programs aren’t the only place for talented young people to perform.

7. MAKE TIME FOR WORK

A job can teach lessons no textbook can.

• Show up and be on time
• Work hard and put away the phone
• Build a good reputation

Start with babysitting, mowing lawns, shoveling snow, or helping at church. Older teens may find work in restaurants, retail, offices, or local businesses.

8. LET THEM FIND THEIR TRIBE

Children make friends in all kinds of places.

• Sports teams
• Music and dance lessons
• Church, work. the neighborhood

There is nothing wrong with co-ops or hybrid schools. But don’t worry, your kids can find their tribe on the sports team, at their dance academy, or just in the neighborhood.

A Final Encouragement

Homeschooling may begin as an escape from something that isn’t working. But it can become much more: an opportunity to give your children a richer education, a more flexible life, and experiences they might never have found inside a traditional classroom.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

Are your tweens suddenly moody, argumentative, or constantly bickering with siblings? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen walk you through what’s really happening during these middle school years and give you practical, faith-centered tools to restore peace in your home.

Show Notes:

The tween years can feel like a sudden storm in your home—what once felt peaceful now feels tense and unpredictable. But this stage has meaning and purpose. In this episode, you’ll find practical ways to guide your children through these changes while maintaining order, respect, and even joy in your family life.

1. UNDERSTAND THE STORM

Your child is changing rapidly—physically, emotionally, and mentally—and it’s overwhelming for them.

* Bodies change before maturity catches up

* New emotions feel confusing and isolating

* Awkwardness and embarrassment are common

This is key: much of the behavior you see is not defiance—it’s disorientation.

2. CHANNEL ENERGY PRODUCTIVELY

Tween energy needs an outlet—or it will come out as conflict.

* Sports, swimming, yard work, walking the dog

* Physical activity helps regulate mood

* Keeps their minds off internal struggles

Hint: tired kids argue less.

3. GIVE REAL RESPONSIBILITY

Tweens want to feel capable and grown-up—even if they don’t say it.

* Cook meals, mow the lawn, do laundry

* Learn practical skills like painting or car care

* Take ownership of meaningful tasks

When they feel useful, they feel confident—and confidence reduces conflict.

4. LIMIT DIGITAL INFLUENCE

Unmonitored technology can quietly fuel discontent and comparison.

* Keep devices out of bedrooms

* Use a central “charging station” at night

* Consider monitoring apps

Even strong kids can be pulled into unhealthy online habits.

5. STOP BICKERING EARLY AND FIRMLY

Peace in the teen years begins in early childhood.

* Don’t entertain “he said/she said”

* Remove the source of conflict immediately

* Stay consistent and calm

* Fighting over TV? Turn it off

* Arguing over treats? No one gets it

* Bickering in public? Leave

This is key: when you mean business, they learn quickly.

6. BUILD A HOUSEHOLD OF PRAYER

A peaceful home is not just managed—it is rooted in grace.

* Say grace before meals

* Begin the day with a morning offering

* Pray the Rosary (even a decade counts)

* Encourage Confession and, when possible, Mass

Finally, prayer softens hearts—including yours and theirs.

7. MODEL THE BEHAVIOR YOU EXPECT

Your tone sets the tone for your home.

* Speak calmly, even when correcting

* Give clear, respectful directives

* Avoid responding emotionally

“Jane, please go set the table.”

“Billy, take time to calm down.”

Your children are always watching how you handle conflict.

A Final Encouragement

These years can be messy—but they are also formative and full of opportunity. With patience, consistency, and grace, you can guide your children through this stage and even strengthen your family in the process. God has entrusted these souls to you—and He will give you what you need.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

Have you ever wondered how you’ll teach subjects you don’t fully understand—especially as your children reach high school? You’re not alone, and you’re not expected to know everything. In this episode, Ginny and the team walk you through practical, realistic ways to handle “tough subjects” with confidence and peace.

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Show Notes:

At some point, every homeschooling parent faces this question: What happens when I can’t teach the material?

The good news is—you don’t have to panic. This episode will help you take a calm, step-by-step approach, using the many resources available today to support both you and your child.

1. TAKE IT ONE YEAR AT A TIME

It’s easy to worry about subjects your child hasn’t even reached yet.

- Focus on the year in front of you

- Trust that solutions will be available when needed

(This is key: today’s challenges are enough—don’t borrow tomorrow’s.)

2. START WITH TRUSTED SOURCES

Before looking elsewhere, check the curriculum you already use.

- Many programs include detailed instructions and support

- Publishers often provide videos, guides, and lesson plans

- Don’t hesitate to call a counselor

(You already trust these sources—let them help you.)

3. BE WARY OF SOCIAL MEDIA

When you feel stuck, it’s tempting to ask online—but this can overwhelm you.

- Too many conflicting opinions

- Advice from people you don’t know or trust

- Can lead to confusion instead of clarity

(Hint: ask one trusted, experienced homeschool mom instead.)

4. USE FREE ONLINE TOOLS WISELY

You don’t need to be an expert to introduce a subject well.

- Geography videos bring the world to life

- Science visuals make concepts engaging

- Music, art, and even drawing can be learned online

(These resources are often free—and surprisingly effective.)

5. EXPLORE STRUCTURED SUPPORT FOR HIGH SCHOOL

As subjects become more advanced, it’s okay to bring in help.

- Affordable or free online courses

- Use them alongside your main curriculum or independently

- Great for math, science, and foreign languages

(This is key: you are still guiding the education—even when others help teach it.)

6. CONSIDER COMMUNITY OPTIONS

You don’t have to do this alone.

- Homeschool co-ops with skilled parents

- “Pod” learning groups with shared teaching

- Parents pooling resources for tutors

- Look for strengths in your community

- Be thoughtful about content and alignment

(Working together can lighten the load for everyone.)

7. LOOK AHEAD TO DUAL ENROLLMENT

Older students may be ready for college-level work.

- Take classes that count for both high school and college

- Available locally or online

- Can build confidence and momentum

(Finally, always check with your homeschool program before enrolling to ensure credits are accepted.)

Final Encouragement

You don’t need to have all the answers to be a good homeschooling parent. Your role is not to know everything—but to guide, support, and seek out what your child needs. With today’s resources and a steady, faithful approach, you truly can do this.

Homeschooling Resources:

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services

Do you ever feel like you need better tools to become a more effective homeschool teacher? You’re not alone—and the good news is, small shifts can make a big difference. In this episode, Ginny and Mary Ellen share practical teaching skills that bring more peace, clarity, and confidence to your homeschool day.

Show Notes:

Homeschooling isn’t just about curriculum—it’s about developing the habits and skills that make learning flourish in your home. If your days have felt rushed, frustrating, or scattered, this episode offers simple, powerful adjustments that can transform your teaching and your child’s experience.

1. LISTEN MORE THAN YOU TALK

Instead of explaining everything, invite your child to narrate.

* “Tell me what you remember.”

* “What stood out to you?”

* “Why do you think that happened?”

This is key: narration builds understanding far better than constant instruction.

2. ASK BETTER QUESTIONS

Move beyond yes-or-no questions.

* “What confused you?”

* “What surprised you?”

* “What would you have done?”

Open-ended questions develop thinking—not just recall.

3. MASTER YOUR OWN CALM

Your emotional tone shapes the entire learning environment.

* Step away if needed

* Take a breath, say a prayer

* Return with calm clarity

Calm is a superpower—and it keeps learning alive.

4. SIMPLIFY YOUR APPROACH

More curriculum does not mean better education.

* Focus on core subjects

* Cut what isn’t working

* Leave room for reading and discussion

Hint: teach what you can do well, not what looks impressive.

5. OBSERVE YOUR CHILD CLOSELY

Pay attention to how your child learns.

* When does attention fade?

* When do they light up?

* When does resistance signal confusion?

This is key: observation helps you teach the child, not just the subject.

6. MODEL CURIOSITY

You don’t need to have all the answers.

* “Let’s look that up.”

* “That’s a great question.”

* “I hadn’t thought of it that way.”

Learning alongside your child teaches them how to think.

7. CREATE A DAILY RHYTHM

Structure brings peace and predictability.

* Morning read-aloud

* Quiet work time

* Afternoon movement

* Weekly nature walks

Children thrive when they know what to expect.

8. ALLOW PRODUCTIVE STRUGGLE

Don’t rush in to solve every problem.

* “What have you tried?”

* “What could you try next?”

Finally, perseverance may matter more than perfect answers.

9. PROTECT WONDER

Especially in younger years, cultivate a sense of beauty and awe.

* Read rich, meaningful books

* Spend time outdoors

* Explore art and creation

Wisdom begins with wonder.

10. KEEP LEARNING YOURSELF

A growing parent creates a growing homeschool.

* Read, think, and stay engaged

* You don’t need expertise—just presence

Your example sets the tone for your entire home.

A Final Encouragement

You don’t need to overhaul everything to become a more effective homeschool teacher. Small, intentional changes—listening more, simplifying, staying calm—can transform your days. God has placed you in this role with purpose, and with His grace, you are more capable than you think.

Homeschooling Resources

Seton Catalog - Free

Seton Home Study School

Seton Testing Services