I’d love to connect with you.

I’d love to connect with you and share what I have learned as a seasoned homeschooling mom. I am the founder of Four Square Community, a Charlotte Mason homeschool group in West Michigan with over 650 local students. I am also the creator of Without Doors, a Charlotte Mason homeschool curriculum, and Without Doors: Life of Jesus Bible study. I am passionate about sparking JOY in home education, one family at a time.

 

Applying the Principles of Minimalism to Homeschooling

Are you inspired by Charlotte Mason's philosophy, but overwhelmed with how to serve an educational feast to your children? I will share how applying the principles of minimalism to your weekly lessons will result in a rich education, a joyful home atmosphere, and the abundant life you were created for. I’ll walk you through narrowing down your priorities, eliminating clutter in your homeschool, and focusing on quality over quantity. "Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, a life." -Charlotte Mason

A Surrendered Homeschool

Are you feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, or inadequate? Would you like to refresh your homeschool schedule, curriculum, or relationships with your children? I’ll share stories of how I learned the beautiful art of surrender. Placing our fears, insecurities, and children at the foot of the cross brings true freedom. Jesus says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:29

The Art of Joyful History Lessons

Charlotte Mason emphasized the importance of learning the history of our native country, a neighboring country, and the world. I’ll share helpful resources and tips on how to integrate geography, literature, art, music, movement, and nature study into your history lessons — resulting in a joyful education. “Our aim in education is to give a full life.” -Charlotte Mason

Boys Will Be Boys: The Delight of Homeschooling Boys

Are you homeschooling your son? Does he have more energy than you can keep up with? Providing a movement-based atmosphere of learning for your son will result in successful lessons and joyful days. I’ll share stories and tips as a veteran homeschooling mom of three boys. “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.” Proverbs 1:8-9

How to Explore Nature When You'd Rather Be Inside

Do you have an aversion to bugs, rain, and poison ivy? Would you rather watch nature on a screen than go outdoors for a hike? Nature study is the foundation of science and valuable for every student. Learn practical tips that even the most "indoorsy" homeschooler can implement so that you and your children don't miss out on essential adventures in nature. Let's reclaim our childlike wonder and join our children in exploring God's beautiful creation! "Never be within doors when you can rightly be without." -Charlotte Mason


Defeating the Afternoon Slump: 15 Minutes to Productive Afternoons

Do you feel like productivity ends after your morning lessons? Are you discouraged with the afternoon slump that hits before dinner? Learn how efficient, intentional scheduling can make all the difference for your family. Be inspired to integrate a simple 15-minute activity into your schedule to defeat the afternoon slump and revive your children's love for learning! "Brisk work and ample leisure and freedom should be the rule of the Home School. The work not done in it’s own time must be left undone." -Charlotte Mason

Generational Blessings: The Power of Our Words Over Our Children

How do you talk to and about your children? Are your words full of hope, love, and encouragement? God shows us throughout His Word that words can bless or curse. "From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so." James 3:10 We will look at examples of the importance of parental blessing in the Bible and discuss practical tips on how our words of blessing will leave a legacy for future generations. "The generation of the upright will be blessed." Psalm 112:2