Articles by Amber Garcia

“One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!” In this article I want to talk about having a garage sale. I know, it’s a lot of work! But hear me out…During summer break (or at a time that is good for you), take the time to go through your house. We have done this just about every summer as a family. This will help bring some order to everything and help you to be ready to start the new school year out on top. Decluttering is so good for everyone! Garage sales give your kids, even young ones, an opportunity to experience the entrepreneurial spirit. 

As a homeschool parent, there are a lot of things clamoring for your attention – the kids, the house, the schooling, outside family, work, friends, pets, church, sports, and… you get the idea! Quite frankly, we start carrying more than we can handle and it affects us. When Mama ain’t happy, nobody's happy! Whenever I find myself becoming a grumpy, tired mom, it’s time to look in the mirror and figure out why. What is sucking the life out of me? It’s then that I sit down with pen and paper, remind myself of my priorities, and reset.

Family traditions at Christmas are important because they create lasting memories, strengthen bonds, and provide a sense of stability and belonging. They bring us together, allowing for shared experiences and deeper connections with our loved ones. When it comes to making memories, there are truly so many options! Let me share with you some Christmas traditions from my own family, as well as some ideas for yours.

In the early years of homeschooling our four children, my husband came home one day to an exhausted wife, mother, and homeschool teacher. I looked at him with tears streaming down my face and muttered the words of defeat: “I can’t do this anymore!” Can you relate to this sentiment?

Here’s the reality, you get 18 summers with your child…gulp! Spend them wisely and make the most of your time as you learn and make memories together! Here are some great ways to bond as a family thoughout the summer months.

At some point, parents commonly recognize that their child is no longer a child. They have grown to the place where, by all reasonable standards, they are ready to spread their wings and fly to the next stage in life. There are a lot of emotions that surface for both the parent and young adult during this time, and these feelings can often be difficult to navigate.

A lot is said about discovering your child’s learning style. Are they a visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or tactile learner? While this is all great and very helpful while teaching, I would like to look at another aspect that plays into their learning. Are you speaking their language? Their love language. Do they feel loved? Today we will look at the 5 love languages to help you connect with your children.

No matter what winter looks like for you, at this point in the school year, you may be feeling a little dry and spent and in need of hibernation—or you may be experiencing cabin fever! And you know what? That’s okay! Let's talk about some fun activities and projects you can do to make some fun memories during this winter season.

Once upon a time families gathered round the table to eat three square meals a day. Now, only about 50% of families carry on this tradition once a day. A sad reality. Homeschool families have the benefit of adjusting their day to accommodate this tradition whether it be a big breakfast, lunch, or supper. Whatever it looks like for your family, I would strongly encourage you to seize those moments. Be intentional about your family table and even use it as a teaching tool!

Election year gives you a special opportunity to teach your student the process America goes through to pick a president and other elected officials. There are many ways to help students learn about state, local, and federal election processes, understand the power of their voice and the vote, and become engaged participants in our nation’s constitutional republic. Discover how to incorporate the topic of elections into your school year!