Vintage Homeschool Moms

Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz

Learn how teaching kids to think can enhance their confidence and critical thinking skills through patience and reflection. [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Giving-Kids-Time-to-Think.png]In this episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms, we explore why giving children time to think is one of the most important—and most overlooked—skills parents can nurture. In a fun flip of the interview seat, Lisa Nehring interviews Felice Gerwitz, founder of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network, about how slowing down our responses helps children develop independence, confidence, and strong critical thinking skills. Felice explains why constantly rushing to give answers, solve problems, or fill silence can unintentionally limit a child’s ability to reason, process information, and trust their own judgment. Instead, she encourages parents to create space for curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful decision-making. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: * Why children need time to process before responding * How open-ended questions support critical thinking * The role patience plays in raising independent learners * How homeschooling naturally supports deeper thinking * Why “thinking time” is not neglect—but intentional parenting This episode is especially helpful for homeschooling parents, educators, and families who want to raise thoughtful, capable kids prepared for real-world problem solving. Whether your child is young or nearing adulthood, learning when not to step in can make all the difference.         ---------------------------------------- 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] POPULAR VINTAGE HOMESCHOOL MOMS EPISODES WITH FELICE GERWITZ Homeschool Lifestyle [https://ultimateradioshow.com/vintage1-homeschool-lifestyle/] Last Minute DIY Tips [https://ultimateradioshow.com/last-minute-diy-entertainment-tips/] Money Saving Field Trips [https://ultimateradioshow.com/money-saving-field-trips/] All About Teaching [https://ultimateradioshow.com/teaching/] Raising Spiritually Strong Kids [https://ultimateradioshow.com/spiritually-strong-kids/] Six Homeschooling Insider Tips [https://ultimateradioshow.com/6-homeschooling-insider-tips/] Best Staycations for Kids [https://ultimateradioshow.com/best-staycations-for-kids/] Avoid Curriculum Pitfalls [https://ultimateradioshow.com/homeschool-curriculum/] Top 10 Parenting Secrets [https://ultimateradioshow.com/parenting-secrets/] 45 Family Date Night Ideas [https://ultimateradioshow.com/category/shows/vintage-homeschool-moms/page/2/] Thank you to our sponsor, CTC Math. [http://ctcmath.com/] [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/CTCMath-Banner-600x300-1.jpg] The post Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves: A Conversation with Felice Gerwitz [https://ultimateradioshow.com/teaching-kids-to-think-for-themselves/] appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network [https://ultimateradioshow.com].

Time Management For Kids (Special Replay)

Time Management | What is the one thing you can't get back? Time. In this episode, we talk about time management for kids and how to learn to take charge of your time. You will be surprised how much time you gain! Another episode just for kids.| #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #justforkids #timemanagement #makingtime #takingbacktime #kidspodcast #kids #lessonsforkids #learnabouttime [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Time-Management.jpg]https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Time-Management.jpgTIME MANAGEMENT FOR KIDS – EPISODE 410 REPLAY Sponsored by CTCMath.com [https://www.ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school] What is the one thing you can’t get back? Time. In this episode, we talk about time management for kids and how to learn to take charge of your time. You will be surprised how much time you gain! Another episode just for kids. Check out this episode just for kids!  1. Kids Making Good Decisions. [https://ultimateradioshow.com/kids-making-good-decisions/] 2. Choosing Good Behavior [https://ultimateradioshow.com/choosing-good-behavior/] 3. Family Life  [https://ultimateradioshow.com/family-loyalty/] Books for tweens – Truth Seekers Mystery Series.  [http://www.mediaangels.com/books] Are you on time? Always? Sure, it is hard to be on time especially when you think you have lots of time and why should you hurry. Besides everyone will wait for you, right? Well, surprise! I bet you will get in trouble if you are late or make your family wait. So, today we are going to discuss time. This is time you can never get back. Punctuality means being early or on time. In fact, some people think if you are on time that means you are late. What do you think? Do you like being late? Do you like waiting for other people? Most people have an opinion on this and I am sure this is something you can talk to your family about, but one thing to think about is this. Punctuality has to do with respect. People who are late show think more highly of their time than the time of others. Does this mean you don’t care? Maybe. But more than likely it means you have not given it any thought because once we think of respect, I am sure you think this is important for all people. So, the first thing I want you to do is to look at your time. How do you manage your time? Most kids don’t manage their time because they don’t have to. You have parents who tell you when to get up or when it is time to eat. When it is time to do your schoolwork or go to church. We are managed by a family that loves and supports us. But, at some point we need to be responsible for our own time. Look at what you like to do. If you could have a day that is all yours to plan what would you do? What does your dream day look like? This may be a topic you want to think about. You may include some of these points: sleeping in or getting up early, eating your favorite foods, watching a movie or reading a book, playing with your friends, going to a park, or maybe a trip to the zoo. Your time would be spent on the things you enjoy. So, let’s look at that list and go to a hobby. A hobby is something you like to do in your spare time. How can you fit this in when your day is filled with the things you have to do? That is what time management is all about. You manage your time so that you can fit in some fun things. But, you might say you are busy with school work and chores and you have not time. Hmm… let’s look at this. What do you do when you are busy with school and chores? Are you doing them well and quickly or are you wasting time? If you look at how you spend your time you will earn that while it may be fun to laugh at your brother or sister, or lose a book and have to spend time finding it, or forget that you have an assignment…in the long run you are only hurting yourself. So, let’s go through a list: 1. How do you want to spend your free time? 2. What can you do to stop wasting time? 3. What are some things you have to do each day that can be done quicker? Another surprise is that I am sure your mom or dad will definitely help you to gain more time in your day, because you know what? If you are more productive–that means you get more things done well and quickly, that gives your family more time as well. This means you respect each other, you respect each other’s time and you are happy to get your chores and school work done because you have a goal at the end, and that is spending time doing the things you enjoy! Good work and good effort is often rewarded. It is rewarded by the knowledge that you did your best and it is practice for the future. I really wish someone had taught me how to manage my time when I was younger. I will have another session on time management for teens upcoming. I am excited about your future because with more time it will allow you to explore things that you are passionate about. Think about all of the amazing inventors such as Thomas Edison, The Wright Brothers and Benjamin Franklin to name a few. As kids, they were constantly experimenting and thinking about new ideas and look at what they did as adults. Now is your time and I hope you use it wisely!   The post Time Management For Kids (Special Replay) [https://ultimateradioshow.com/time-management-for-kids-2/] appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network [https://ultimateradioshow.com].

Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout

WHY ARE WE BURNED OUT BEFORE THE SCHOOL YEAR EVEN BEGINS? IN THIS PODCAST, WE TACKLE HOW HOMESCHOOLERS OVERCOME BURNOUT SUCCESSFULLY, WITH KEY TIPS TO HELP YOU BECOME A HOMESCHOOL SUCCESS. Why are we burned out before the school year even begins? In this podcast, we tackle how homeschoolers overcome burnout successfully, with key tips to help you become a homeschool success. [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/overcoming-burnout-vintage-homeschool-moms-podcast.png]STRATEGIES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS: OVERCOMING BURNOUT – EPISODE 573 Welcome, dear listeners, to another encouraging episode of Vintage Homeschool Moms. As a mom who’s homeschooled for over three decades, I’ve faced those moments when the weight of curriculum choices, daily chores, and family dynamics feels like too much. But today, we’re shifting from survival mode to thriving by focusing on innovative, faith-grounded approaches that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re a Christian or Catholic family seeking spiritual alignment or approaching homeschooling from a secular viewpoint, these ideas are adaptable to renew your energy and keep the joy alive in your home education. RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS OF HOMESCHOOL BURNOUT Burnout often creeps in when our expectations clash with reality—perhaps from overcommitting to co-ops, rigid schedules that don’t flex with life, or neglecting personal recharge time. In my own experience, it showed up as irritability during lessons or dreading the start of a new week. Drawing from biblical principles like finding rest in the Lord (as in Matthew 11:28), we can view burnout not as failure but as a signal to realign. For families of all backgrounds, this means assessing your current setup: Are you trying to replicate traditional school too closely, or ignoring the natural ebbs and flows of home life? BUILDING SUSTAINABLE ROUTINES FOR LONG-TERM ENERGY One key to lasting strength is crafting flexible weekly plans that incorporate variety. Instead of a one-size-fits-all schedule, try theme-based days—like “Exploration Monday” for hands-on science or history projects, which keeps things fresh and prevents monotony. I’ve found that rotating subjects based on energy levels helps; for instance, tackle high-focus tasks in the morning when everyone’s alert, and save creative activities for afternoons. This approach, inspired by the idea of stewardship over our time, allows space for unexpected blessings or challenges without derailing the whole day. Another effective method is integrating short, purposeful breaks with movement or nature. Step outside for a 10-minute walk to discuss a lesson informally, or use that time for quick household resets. This not only combats mental fatigue but also models balance for your kids, showing them that productivity includes self-care. For faith-centered homes, frame these pauses as moments to appreciate creation, fostering gratitude that counters exhaustion. FOSTERING COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT NETWORKS Isolation can amplify burnout, so intentionally build connections with other homeschoolers. Join or start a local co-op where you swap teaching duties—one week you handle math games, the next a friend covers art. In my years, these partnerships have been lifesavers, providing accountability and fresh perspectives. Online forums or apps for homeschool meetups can work too, especially if in-person options are limited. Think of it as embodying the community spirit in scriptures like Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, where two are better than one, but it’s equally valuable for secular families seeking practical collaboration. Delegate age-appropriate responsibilities to your children to lighten your load. Create a family chore wheel or assign “helper roles” during school time, like older siblings guiding younger ones in reading. This empowers kids with ownership and frees you up, turning potential stress points into growth opportunities. I’ve seen this transform our home dynamic, reducing my overwhelm while building their independence. PRIORITIZING PERSONAL RENEWAL AND MINDSET SHIFTS To sustain your role, carve out non-negotiable “mom time”—perhaps an evening hobby like journaling goals or listening to uplifting audiobooks. Set boundaries, such as ending school by a certain hour to enjoy family downtime. Reframe challenges positively: Instead of seeing a tough day as defeat, celebrate small wins, like a child’s “aha” moment. For Christian families, this ties into renewing your mind as in Romans 12:2, but anyone can benefit from mindset tools like daily affirmations focused on progress over perfection. CONCLUSION: RECLAIMING JOY IN YOUR HOMESCHOOL JOURNEY Overcoming burnout isn’t about drastic overhauls but consistent, intentional steps that restore balance and purpose. By implementing these strategies, you’ll move from feeling depleted to embracing the abundance homeschooling offers. Thanks for tuning in, friends—may your week be filled with renewed vigor and meaningful connections. * Assess and Adjust Your Schedule: Review your weekly plan and introduce theme days or flexible blocks to add variety and prevent routine fatigue. * Incorporate Movement Breaks: Schedule 10-15 minute outdoor or active pauses daily to refresh minds and bodies, discussing lessons casually to keep learning flowing. * Build a Support Network: Connect with one or two homeschool families for shared teaching sessions or virtual check-ins to share the load and gain new ideas. * Delegate Family Roles: Assign tasks like prep work or peer tutoring to kids, using tools like chore charts to foster responsibility and ease your burden. * Claim Personal Recharge Time: Block out 30 minutes daily for a hobby or reflection, setting firm end times for school to protect your well-being. FOR MORE LISTENING: EXPLORE THESE VINTAGE HOMESCHOOL MOMS EPISODES Deepen your understanding of prayer and burnout prevention with these related episodes from the Vintage Homeschool Moms podcast: * Homeschool Burn Out [https://ultimateradioshow.com/homeschool-burn-out/?referrer=grok.com] * When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling [https://ultimateradioshow.com/when-mom-is-tired-of-homeschooling/?referrer=grok.com] * Time Management For Parents | Replay [https://ultimateradioshow.com/time-management-for-parents-2/?referrer=grok.com] * Mommy Jammies Night [https://ultimateradioshow.com/mommy-jammies/?referrer=grok.com] * Peaceful Homeschooling: 5 Simple Ways to Create a Calm, Christ-Centered Home [https://ultimateradioshow.com/peaceful-homeschooling-2/?referrer=grok.com] THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: SPONSORED BY CTCMATH.COM — THE ONLINE MATH PROGRAM HOMESCHOOL PARENTS LOVE BECAUSE IT BUILDS REAL CONFIDENCE FAST. LESSONS ARE SHORT AND CLEAR, KIDS CAN PAUSE AND REWIND AS OFTEN AS THEY NEED, AND THEY CAN LEARN AT THEIR OWN PACE (WITHOUT THE STRESS). PARENTS ALSO GET DETAILED PROGRESS REPORTS—AND A WHOLE LOT LESS TENSION WHEN IT’S TIME FOR MATH. ➕ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/2795.svg]📘 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4d8.svg] [https://www.ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school] The post Homeschoolers Overcoming Burnout [https://ultimateradioshow.com/homeschoolers-overcoming-burnout/] appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network [https://ultimateradioshow.com].

Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm

From Overwhelm to Overflow: Prayer as Your Homeschool Anchor ~ Episode 572 [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/overwhelm.png]FROM OVERWHELM TO OVERFLOW: PRAYER AS YOUR HOMESCHOOL ANCHOR ~ EPISODE 572 SPONSORED BY CTCMATH.COM — THE ONLINE MATH PROGRAM HOMESCHOOL PARENTS LOVE BECAUSE IT BUILDS REAL CONFIDENCE FAST. LESSONS ARE SHORT AND CLEAR, KIDS CAN PAUSE AND REWIND AS OFTEN AS THEY NEED, AND THEY CAN LEARN AT THEIR OWN PACE (WITHOUT THE STRESS). PARENTS ALSO GET DETAILED PROGRESS REPORTS—AND A WHOLE LOT LESS TENSION WHEN IT’S TIME FOR MATH. ➕ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/2795.svg]📘 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4d8.svg] [https://www.ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school] Welcome to Vintage Homeschool Moms. My prayer is that this episode fills you with hope and encouragement as you pour into the future generation of children! People don’t thank us for homeschooling our own children, but I do extend a thank-you because what you do in your own home will impact many people. Those. You know, and those you may never meet! I hope you walk away encouraged and that I can share some practical wisdom. I’m Felice Gerwitz, your host, and today we begin a two-part series on overcoming homeschool mom burnout through prayer strategies. As a veteran homeschooler myself, I’ve walked through seasons of deep exhaustion, and I know many of you are there right now. According to recent surveys from the National Home Education Research Institute [https://ultimateradioshow.com/homeschool-research-hypothesis-to-headlines/], over 80 percent of homeschool parents report significant stress, and in our faith-led communities on platforms like X, spiritual coping is a key theme for 2026 resolutions. I was blessed to interview Dr. Brian Ray in past episodes, and his research is exhaustive. As long-time homeschool parents, we must be the light at the end of the tunnel and an encouragement to others. This series draws inspiration from biblical principles and shared experiences to help you move from overwhelm to a place of overflow, where God’s peace sustains your daily efforts. UNDERSTANDING HOMESCHOOL MOM BURNOUT Burnout in homeschooling often creeps in quietly. It starts with the endless to-do lists: planning lessons, managing household chores, nurturing relationships, and perhaps even juggling outside commitments. For many Christian moms, there’s an added layer of spiritual responsibility—ensuring our children’s education aligns with our faith values. I’ve seen this in my own journey and heard it from countless families. The weight can feel crushing, leading to fatigue, irritability, and a loss of joy in what should be a fulfilling calling. And that is when all the doubt begins to creep in; we feel that if we share our burdens with our spouse, it will appear weak. And we can’t complain to our friends, especially those who don’t support homeschooling or who have opted for co-ops or full-time traditional school after homeschooling. That is where we shoulder those burdens and bury them deep. But here’s the hope: God doesn’t intend for us to carry this alone. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are weary, promising rest for our souls. Prayer isn’t just an add-on; it’s the foundation that anchors us. By integrating prayer strategies into our routines, we can reclaim that rest and renew our strength, as Isaiah 40:31 reminds us. (…but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.) PRACTICAL PRAYER STRATEGIES FOR DAILY RENEWAL Let’s start with simple, intentional practices. Begin your day with a surrender prayer. Before the children wake or lessons begin, spend five to ten minutes in quiet communion with the Lord. Acknowledge your limitations and invite His guidance. Something as straightforward as, “Lord, this day is Yours; help me to do Your will,” can shift your perspective from self-reliance to divine dependence. Another strategy is breath prayers throughout the day. These are short, scripture-based affirmations you can whisper during transitions—like when switching from math to history or folding laundry. For instance, drawing from Philippians 4:6-7, (Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.) Keep in mind the key words: do not be anxious, pray, give thanks, pray for peace, and keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus! This grounds you in the moment and combats the mental clutter that fuels burnout. Consider creating a prayer journal specifically for your homeschool challenges. Note specific stressors, like curriculum frustrations or child conflicts, and pair them with verses of promise. Over time, record how God answers, building a testimony of His faithfulness that you can revisit on tough days. I know this sounds like alot and if you have little ones you are thinking, “What time, Felice?” But, you can do the Jesus prayer. Just say the name of Our Lord and Savior when you need Him the most. “Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.” or my favorite. “Jesus I trust in You!” BUILDING A SUPPORT NETWORK THROUGH PRAYER Isolation amplifies burnout, so incorporate intercessory prayer. Connect with other homeschool moms in your church or online faith groups. Share prayer requests anonymously if needed, focusing on mutual upliftment. I’ve found that praying for others often lightens my own load, as it reminds me we’re all in this together under God’s grace. Don’t think you are alone because you are not! That is a lie of the enemy to keep us isolated and to make us think we are not enough. You are. Remember, A bad day of homeschooling is better than the best day of traditional school. My children still talk about homeschooling days, and most of them plan to homeschool their own children. Our homeschool was far from perfect, but they understood that at the core of any difficult lesson was the love I had for each of them and the love of their father. In our community, many emphasize starting small prayer circles—perhaps a weekly call with one or two fellow moms to pray over each other’s families. This not only provides emotional support but also models prayer for our children, teaching them to seek God in their struggles. If you can arrange a park day once a month, that is even better. Our group met for First Fridays: we went to Mass on the first of the month, followed by a park day with lunch packed. It was such a blessing. As we close this first part, remember that burnout is a signal to pause and realign with God’s purposes. Prayer strategies like daily surrender, quoting scripture, extemporaneous prayers, and journaling can transform your approach. In part two, we’ll dive deeper into advanced practices, including fasting and scripture meditation, with real-life examples from homeschool families. Stay tuned, and may God’s peace guard your heart today. * When Mom Is Tired of Homeschooling [https://ultimateradioshow.com/when-mom-is-tired-of-homeschooling/?referrer=grok.com] * Self Care for Life Transitions for Homeschool Moms [https://ultimateradioshow.com/self-care-for-life-transitions-for-homeschool-moms/?referrer=grok.com] * Christian Self Care for the Homeschool Mom [https://ultimateradioshow.com/christian-self-care-planner/?referrer=grok.com] * Transform Your Homeschool with Biblical Prayer Practices [https://ultimateradioshow.com/prayer/?referrer=grok.com] * Homeschooling When Mom Is Sick [https://ultimateradioshow.com/homeschooling-when-mom-is-sick/?referrer=grok.com] The post Overcoming Homeschool Overwhelm [https://ultimateradioshow.com/overcoming-homeschool-overwhelm/] appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network [https://ultimateradioshow.com].

Games That Teach (Part 1): Brain Training Games for Homeschool Learning + Special Needs Support

Explore games that teach real skills to kids in a fun way. Discover practical brain training tools for learning on the go. [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Games-That-teach-part-1.png]Looking for educational games that build real skills—not just keep kids busy? In Part 1 of this two-part series, host Felice Gerwitz [https://ultimateradioshow.com/vintage-homeschool-moms/]talks with Tara Jenner of The Brain Trainers [https://brain-trainer.com/brain-trainer-library/] about games that teach—including simple car games, on-the-go learning games, and card games that strengthen memory, processing speed, auditory processing, visual processing, language retrieval, and executive function skills. Tara shares how families can use games as practical “brain training” tools—especially helpful for kids who struggle with multi-step directions, working memory, or word-finding. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN SPONSORED BY CTCMATH.COM — THE ONLINE MATH PROGRAM HOMESCHOOL PARENTS LOVE BECAUSE IT BUILDS REAL CONFIDENCE FAST. LESSONS ARE SHORT AND CLEAR, KIDS CAN PAUSE AND REWIND AS OFTEN AS THEY NEED, AND THEY CAN LEARN AT THEIR OWN PACE (WITHOUT THE STRESS). PARENTS ALSO GET DETAILED PROGRESS REPORTS—AND A WHOLE LOT LESS TENSION WHEN IT’S TIME FOR MATH. ➕ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2795.png]📘 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f4d8.png] [https://www.ctcmath.com/how-it-works/home-school] ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] WHY EDUCATIONAL GAMES WORK (AND HOW TO MAKE THEM “TRANSFER” TO REAL LIFE) Tara explains that games are far more effective when kids can name the skill they’re practicing and learn to apply it outside the game—socially and academically. ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] EASY “GAMES ON THE GO” FOR HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES These quick, no-prep games can be played in the car, in line, or during errands: * The Mailbox Game (Analogies + Associations) One item “goes into the mailbox,” and something connected by one trait comes out. Great for analogy thinking, flexible reasoning, and verbal explanation. * What Are We Having for Dinner? (Categorization + Emotional Language) Kids sort items into “tasty,” “nasty,” or “aww” (soft fuzzy empathy items). Builds categorization, quick responses, and expressive language. * Rapid Naming Game (Vocabulary Retrieval + Processing Speed) Fast category naming (like groceries, sports team names, etc.), using visualization strategies to improve speed and accuracy. ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] GROCERY STORE BRAIN GAMES THAT DOUBLE AS LIFE SKILLS Felice shares a fun “theme scavenger hunt” style game using science connections (like Mars bars = planets or Milky Way = space), boosting creative associations and attention. Tara adds a smart extension: teach kids to notice marketing placement—what’s at eye level, on end caps, and why—while also building visual awareness. ---------------------------------------- FEATURED GAME RESOURCE MENTIONED NAME 5 (ENDLESS GAMES) A category-prompt game Tara uses to support rapid naming, vocabulary growth, and research prompts when kids get stuck on categories. ---------------------------------------- Q&A: “MY SON CAN’T FOLLOW MORE THAN ONE DIRECTION AT A TIME—HOW DO WE DO THIS?” Tara breaks down practical strategies for kids who struggle with following multi-step directions, including: * teaching directions one step at a time * having the child repeat the step back * using visualization (“see yourself doing it”) * helping kids connect the “missing steps” in a sequence This section is especially helpful for parents supporting kids with auditory processing challenges or working memory limitations. CARD GAMES THAT TEACH (AND WHAT SKILLS THEY BUILD) Tara recommends several high-impact educational card games and explains how to use them for skill-building (even before playing the “official” rules): SET Builds pattern recognition, logic, sorting, visual discrimination, and multi-feature processing. Tara also shares pre-game exercises (sorting by color/shape/number/shading) to reduce overwhelm and build mastery. BLINK Fast-paced matching by shape, color, or number—great for processing speed and flexible thinking. Tara recommends starting with open-hand play and emphasizing skill before speed. 7-8-9 A mental math card game using quick +/– calculations. Great for strengthening math fluency (when kids are ready). SPOT IT! (AND VARIATIONS) Strengthens visual processing, scanning, and attention by finding the one matching symbol between cards. Tara shares strategies like elimination by color to narrow focus. ABOUT TODAY’S GUEST: TARA JENNER Tara Jenner is a homeschool mom and brain training specialist who works with families and students to strengthen cognitive skills through practical exercises and targeted support. Find Tara here: * TheBrain-Trainers.com [https://brain-trainer.com/] WHAT’S COMING IN PART 2 In Games That Teach (Part 2), Felice and Tara will move into board games and additional strategies for building memory skills through play. LISTEN + SUBSCRIBE You can listen to this episode at TheVintageHomeschoolMoms.com and follow the show on your favorite podcast app. ---------------------------------------- SPONSORED BY CTCMATH.COM CTC Math for Homeschooling Families [https://ultimateradioshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/CTCMath-Banner-600x300-1.jpg] The post Games That Teach (Part 1): Brain Training Games for Homeschool Learning + Special Needs Support [https://ultimateradioshow.com/gamesthatteach1-2/] appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network [https://ultimateradioshow.com].