Becoming Homeschoolers: A Family Transformed – Monica Swanson, Part 1

"What do I want my kids childhood to look like? What do I want the most important things in their life to be as they grow up and leave the home one day?" ~ Monica Swanson

Watch this full interview on our YouTube Channel.

Yvette Hampton sits down with Monica Swanson, author of *Becoming Homeschoolers*. Monica shares her family's transition to homeschooling, the impact it has made on their lives, and her passion for encouraging other families. 🌊🏄‍♂️

Discover Monica’s insights into homeschooling diverse learners, balancing extracurricular activities, and the importance of character development. Whether you're a veteran homeschooler or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable advice!

Come back Wednesday and Thursday for the rest of this conversation.

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Recommended Resources:

Podcast Note-Taking Guide

monicaswanson.com (blog, podcast, courses)

Master "Boy Mom" - Monica Swanson on the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast

Books:

Becoming Homeschoolers: Give Your Kids a Great Education, a Strong Family, and a Life They'll Thank You for Later, by Monica Swanson

Boy Mom: What Your Son Needs Most from You, by Monica Swanson

Raising Amazing: Bringing Up Kids Who Love God, Like Their Family, and Do the Dishes without Being Asked, by Monica Swanson

Join us for the Brave 2024 Online Homeschool Conference, hosted by our friends at Made2Homeschool, August 1-3. Enjoy three days of amazing speakers, live hangouts, live Q&A sessions and panels, a digital grab bag and virtual exhibit hall, and most importantly, godly homeschooling encouragement and support. EARLY BIRD TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME!

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Discussion Questions:

1. **Introduction to Homeschooling**: Monica Swanson mentioned that they initially didn't put much thought into education decisions. Reflect on how you first approached the idea of homeschooling. What were your initial thoughts and feelings?

2. **Public vs. Private vs. Homeschool**: Monica and her husband tried private Christian schooling before transitioning to homeschooling. What were some of the drawbacks to private schooling that caused her to bring her sons home?

3. **Legal Concerns**: Monica's husband initially questioned the legality of homeschooling. What are the legal requirements for homeschooling in your area, and how did you navigate them? If you have questions about the Legal requirements of homeschooling in your state, visit HSLDA for state-by-state advice.

4. **Homeschooling Environment**: Monica alluded to initially trying to recreate a traditional school environment at home. How did your homeschooling environment start, and how has it evolved? What are the drawbacks of trying to recreate the classroom in your home?

5. **Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars**: Monica’s sons are passionate about surfing, and the family has had to be flexible with their schooling schedule. How do you balance academics with your children’s extracurricular interests?

6. **Homeschool Benefits**: Monica shared that homeschooling has shaped their family profoundly. How has homeschooling impacted your family dynamics and relationships?

7. **Faith Integration**: Monica mentions integrating their faith into daily homeschooling. How do you incorporate God's Word into your homeschooling routine?

8. **Long-term Vision**: Both Monica and Yvette discuss "zooming out" to see the bigger picture of their children's education and future. What are your long-term goals for homeschooling, and how do those goals influence daily decisions?

9. **Dealing with Challenges**: Monica acknowledges the struggles, such as the morning rush and potential doubts about handling homeschooling. What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

10. **Legacy of Homeschooling**: Monica and Yvette emphasize the importance of leaving a legacy through homeschooling. How do you aim to ensure that the values and lessons you're teaching will be passed down through future generations?

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BJU Press Homeschool provides complete curriculum for preschool through 12th grade with both traditional textbooks and video courses available. Education from a Christian worldview reshapes how children see the world. BJU Press materials teach Christ's power and lordship through the Big Story of creation.

Apologia – Apologia is a Christ-centered, award-winning homeschool curriculum provider. Our mission is to help homeschooling students and families learn, live, and defend the Christian faith through our print and digital curriculum and online classes.

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