We Have Hope

111. How Squiggle Squad Reinvents Handwriting Education

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post: Holly Britton, founder of Squiggle Squad, discusses the importance of handwriting as a foundational skill for children's learning, its connection to cognitive development, and practical strategies for effective handwriting instruction. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Handwriting Challenges * 03:06 Rethinking Handwriting as a Tool * 05:48 The Cognitive vs. Mechanical Aspects of Writing * 08:39 The Importance of Handwriting in Education * 11:33 Squiggle Squad: A New Approach to Handwriting * 14:21 Developmentally Appropriate Handwriting Instruction * 17:12 The Progression of Handwriting Skills * 19:57 Addressing Learning Differences in Handwriting * 19:59 The Importance of Early Handwriting Instruction * 23:37 Group vs. Individual Instruction in Handwriting * 26:42 Connecting Handwriting with Thought Expression * 28:39 The Neurological Connection of Handwriting * 33:15 Resources for Handwriting Instruction * 36:34 The Impact of Technology on Writing Skills * 38:33 Hope for the Future of Handwriting Education * 41:13 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3 Episode Highlights: * The importance of handwriting as a tool for thought * Motor skills development and age-appropriate instruction * The systemic issues in handwriting education and teacher training * The science behind handwriting and cognitive development Quotes: * "If your hand can't flow, your thoughts can't." * "Handwriting is the base unit for writing." * "Writing your thoughts out is incredibly powerful." More on Holly Britton and Squiggle Squad: * Squiggle Squad Website - https://squigglesquad.com [https://squigglesquad.com] * Holly's Substack on Science of Handwriting - https://hollyonsgood.substack.com [https://hollyonsgood.substack.com] More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode: * Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE! [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/podcast/] * Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org [kim@loveyourschool.org]  * www.loveyourschool.org [http://www.loveyourschool.org] * Visit our Facebook HERE! [https://m.facebook.com/LoveYourSchoolWV/] * Visit our Instagram HERE! [https://www.instagram.com/loveyourschoolwv/] This show has been produced by Love Your School WV [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/].

110. The Power of Myofunctional Therapy

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Laura Foster, the owner of Family First Myology. They discuss the concept of myology, which is the study of muscle function, particularly in relation to myofunctional therapy. Laura explains how this therapy can help improve oral and facial muscle function, which in turn can enhance airway health and overall well-being. The conversation delves into the connections between sleep disorders, behavior issues in children, and the importance of early intervention. Laura shares insights on how myofunctional therapy can benefit both children and adults, the structure of therapy sessions, and the collaborative efforts with other health professionals. The episode emphasizes the need for awareness and education regarding myofunctional disorders and the hope that comes with effective therapy. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Myology and Its Importance * 03:09 Understanding Myofunctional Therapy * 05:35 The Connection Between Sleep and Behavior * 08:44 Identifying Myofunctional Disorders * 11:29 The Role of Myofunctional Therapy in Children * 14:09 Therapy Sessions and Progress Tracking * 16:59 Collaboration with Other Health Professionals * 19:51 Insurance and Accessibility of Services * 22:18 The Importance of Early Intervention * 24:53 Hope and Healing Through Myofunctional Therapy * 42:24 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3 Episode Highlights: * Myology is the study of muscle function, particularly in the mouth and face. * Myofunctional therapy can improve airway health and overall function. * Sleep disorders can significantly impact children's behavior and cognitive function. * Chronic congestion and mouth breathing are red flags for myofunctional disorders. * Myofunctional therapy is suitable for children aged four and up. * Therapy sessions typically last 30-45 minutes and focus on muscle exercises. * Collaboration with pediatricians and other health professionals is essential for comprehensive care. * Insurance coverage for myofunctional therapy can be limited, but options exist. * Early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term health issues. * There is hope for better health through myofunctional therapy, which can lead to significant improvements in quality of life. More on Family First Myology: * Phone: (304) 627-4329 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573731564275 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573731564275] * Email: familyfirstmyology@gmail.com [familyfirstmyology@gmail.com] More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode: * Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE! [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/podcast/] * Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org [kim@loveyourschool.org]  * www.loveyourschool.org [http://www.loveyourschool.org] * Visit our Facebook HERE! [https://m.facebook.com/LoveYourSchoolWV/] * Visit our Instagram HERE! [https://www.instagram.com/loveyourschoolwv/] This show has been produced by Love Your School WV [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/].

109. Transforming History Through Gaming

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post: In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Zack Edwards, the creator of Historical Conquest and Xogos Gaming. They discuss the journey of creating an educational game that makes history engaging and fun for students. Zack shares his experiences with the game’s development, its mechanics, and how it fosters family engagement. The conversation also touches on the importance of parental involvement, the digital evolution of educational games, and the hope for a better future through learning and connection. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Historical Conquest and Xogos Gaming * 06:17 Understanding Game Mechanics and Learning * 11:20 The Importance of Retention in Learning * 18:20 Creating a Safe and Engaging Gaming Environment * 26:01 Gaming as a Tool for Engagement * 32:11 Addressing Learning Loss Through Gaming * 38:39 Creating a Hopeful Future Through Family Engagement * 44:22 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3 Episode Highlights: * Zack hated history in school due to poor teaching methods. * Creating a project can make learning more engaging. * Historical Conquest merges fun and education effectively. * The game is designed to be played in 30 minutes to an hour. * Parental involvement is crucial for children's learning. * The digital platform Xogos Gaming enhances accessibility. * Incentives for learning include earning coins through gameplay. * The platform aims to create a safe environment for kids. * Hope is essential for a better future in education. * Games can help prevent learning loss during summer breaks. More on The Good and The Beautiful: * Website: Historical Conquest [https://www.historicalconquest.com/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoricalConquest/ [https://www.facebook.com/HistoricalConquest/] * Email: historicalconquest@gmail.com [historicalconquest@gmail.com] * Youtube: Historical Conquest Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwMESbGwG5OqQrjoq6pCSpQ] More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode: * Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE! [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/podcast/] * Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org [kim@loveyourschool.org]  * www.loveyourschool.org [http://www.loveyourschool.org] * Visit our Facebook HERE! [https://m.facebook.com/LoveYourSchoolWV/] * Visit our Instagram HERE! [https://www.instagram.com/loveyourschoolwv/] This show has been produced by Love Your School WV [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/].

108. The Good and the Beautiful: Helping Families Homeschool with Confidence

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post: In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Patch Crowe, the Director of Media for The Good and the Beautiful, a popular homeschool curriculum company. Patch shares insights into the curriculum's five pillars, its accessibility, and the role of religion within the materials. He discusses the importance of community feedback and support for first-time homeschoolers, emphasizing the flexibility and adaptability of homeschooling. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of parenting and education, ultimately conveying a message of hope and confidence in parents' abilities to provide for their children's education. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to The Good and the Beautiful * 01:49 Overview of The Good and the Beautiful Curriculum * 04:03 The Five Pillars of Education * 04:53 Curriculum Structure and Subject Coverage * 07:46 Religious Themes and Flexibility in Curriculum * 09:58 History and Evolution of The Good and the Beautiful * 12:34 Feedback and Community Engagement * 15:23 Support for First-Time Homeschoolers * 16:53 Personal Experiences in Homeschooling * 18:17 Navigating Parenting Expectations * 20:09 The Importance of Flexibility in Education * 21:59 Curriculum Insights and Educational Resources * 27:55 Homeschooling Dynamics and Daily Routines * 29:39 Finding Hope in Parenting Challenges * 33:16 We Have Hope Kim Outro.mp3 Episode Highlights: * The Good and the Beautiful focuses on five main pillars: appreciation for God, family, nature, wholesome art, and strong teaching methods. * The curriculum is designed to be easy to teach and enjoyable for students. * Parents can access a variety of resources, including free materials, to support their homeschooling journey. * The curriculum incorporates Christian themes but is not overly religious, allowing for secular use. * Community feedback is essential for curriculum development and improvement. * Support for first-time homeschoolers includes Facebook groups and a YouTube channel with helpful resources. * Homeschooling can be flexible, with lessons tailored to each child's needs and learning styles. * Parents are encouraged to trust their instincts and adapt their teaching methods as needed. * The Good and the Beautiful offers a range of subjects and grade levels, including high school courses. * The podcast emphasizes the importance of hope and confidence in parenting and education. More on The Good and The Beautiful: * Website: Good and the Beautiful [https://redefiningschool.com/https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/?srsltid=AfmBOop4Cf7oB10Vp6UQd_oDGeoI-uF_K2ppAETwf_OcPn_xiWmxYSGN] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoodandthebeautiful/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegoodandthebeautiful/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegoodandthebeautiful/ [https://www.facebook.com/thegoodandthebeautiful/] More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode: * Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE! [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/podcast/] * Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org [kim@loveyourschool.org]  * www.loveyourschool.org [http://www.loveyourschool.org] * Visit our Facebook HERE! [https://m.facebook.com/LoveYourSchoolWV/] * Visit our Instagram HERE! [https://www.instagram.com/loveyourschoolwv/] This show has been produced by Love Your School WV [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/].

107. More Than Grades: Raising Thinkers

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post: In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Dr. Mindy Schiermyer, the owner of Redefining School, a literature and writing program for middle and high school students. Mindy shares her journey from traditional teaching to homeschooling her children and eventually creating a program that fosters community, critical thinking, and a love for literature. The conversation explores the importance of engaging students in meaningful discussions, preparing them for future opportunities, and instilling resilience and problem-solving skills. Mindy emphasizes the need for a supportive educational environment that nurtures relationships and encourages students to express their ideas freely. The episode concludes with insights on the enrollment process for Redefining School and the hope that the next generation brings to the future. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Redefining School * 02:46 The Journey of Homeschooling * 05:32 Building a Community of Learners * 08:22 Engaging Literature Discussions * 11:11 Teaching Critical Thinking and Soft Skills * 14:02 Course Structure and Student Engagement * 16:45 High School Curriculum and Graduation Requirements * 26:55 Innovative High School Curriculum Design * 28:24 The Importance of Over-Preparation in Education * 30:12 Outsourcing Education: Finding the Right Fit * 31:55 The Role of Parents in Education * 33:56 Preparing for Opportunities: Skills for the Future * 38:10 Enrollment Process and Course Offerings * 46:32 Hope for the Future: Believing in Kids Episode Highlights: * Mindy's journey from traditional teaching to homeschooling led to the creation of Redefining School. * The program focuses on literature and writing for middle and high school students. * Building a community among students is essential for engagement and retention. * Mindy emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and discourse skills in education. * The curriculum is designed to keep middle school students engaged and motivated. * Students learn to respect differing opinions and engage in meaningful discussions. * Preparing students for future opportunities is a key focus of the program. * Resilience and problem-solving skills are crucial for success in today's world. * The enrollment process for Redefining School is structured to prioritize current families and waitlisted students. * Mindy expresses hope for the future generation and their potential to make a positive impact. Quotes: * "I believe in kids too." * "Kids are our future." * "They are amazing." More on Dr. Mindy Schiermeyer and Redefining School: * Website: https://redefiningschool.com/ [https://redefiningschool.com/] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redefiningschool/ [https://www.instagram.com/redefiningschool/] More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode: * Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE! [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/podcast/] * Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org [kim@loveyourschool.org]  * www.loveyourschool.org [http://www.loveyourschool.org] * Visit our Facebook HERE! [https://m.facebook.com/LoveYourSchoolWV/] * Visit our Instagram HERE! [https://www.instagram.com/loveyourschoolwv/] This show has been produced by Love Your School WV [https://www.loveyourschool.org/westvirginia/].