The Funschoolers

📣📣Do your kids fell pressure to be a “success” in life? Would you cheat for your kids’ success?

📣📣Do your kids fell pressure to be a “success” in life? Would you cheat for your kids’ success? Today, I want to dive into some thoughts inspired by the novel "Admission," which got me reflecting on the crazy pressures surrounding education and success. See “Admission” from Julie Bauxbum here in Amazon: https://amzn.to/3RfLaW9This book responds to the 2019 Varsity Blues scandal, where numerous celebrities and their children faced legal consequences for cheating on SAT and ACT tests. See it here: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varsity_Blues_scandalIt’s shocking to think about how some parents felt their kids needed to be at the top of their game, or they’d feel ashamed. As a homeschool mom, I often ponder this very issue—how do I ensure my kids thrive without succumbing to these pressures?The truth is, I want my children to succeed, but never at the cost of their integrity or happiness. I was recently asked on TikTok how my homeschooled kids could be successful, as if homeschooling somehow limits their potential. But guess what? Research shows that thousands of test scores are flagged each year for suspicious activity, highlighting that the pressure to perform is still alive and well.See the numbers here: https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-act-cheating-accused-what-to-do#:~:text=The%20College%20Board%20and%20ACT%20don't%20discuss%20this%20publicly,and%20What%20You%20Can%20DoI want my kids to feel free to explore their passions and interests without the looming weight of societal expectations. The goal of our homeschooling journey is not just academic success, but to cultivate creativity, confidence, and a sense of security. In today’s world, there’s often a misconception that the only path to success is through traditional education—going to a top-tier school, earning a prestigious degree, and landing a high-paying job. But my husband and I are living proof that there are countless ways to carve out a fulfilling life. We’re college-educated, yet we’ve built our businesses through creativity and self-teaching, proving that success is not one-size-fits-all.See our websites here: www.757homesolutions.comwww.virginiaphotosandfilms.comwww.nomadearth.designwww.virginiamarketingandmedia.comwww.virginiabeachphotoboothcompany.comAs our kids approach middle and high school, the pressure can become overwhelming. Friends may be weighing college options and striving for perfect grades. It’s important to remind them that success can look different for everyone. Whether they choose to attend college, launch a business, or pursue trades, what matters most is that they feel supported and loved in whatever path they choose.I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! How do you handle academic pressures within your family? Let’s share ideas and support one another. Feel free to check out more resources on homeschooling at www.thefunschoolers.com. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where our kids can truly thrive!

“Will my child be successful and go to college if they are homeschooled?” FAQ Virginia

Hey there, fellow homeschoolers and curious minds! Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been on my heart lately: the incredible opportunities available for our homeschooled kids and how we can set them up for success in life. As a homeschool mom for over 14 years, I’ve learned a lot about the various paths that can lead our children to fulfilling futures, whether they choose college, trades, or even entrepreneurship.One of the biggest misconceptions about homeschooling is that it limits our kids' potential. In reality, there are so many options out there! For instance, in Virginia, we have fantastic dual enrollment programs with local community colleges. (Tidewater community college ) TCC: https://www.tcc.edu/high-school-dual-enrollment/Regent university homeschool partnership program : https://www.regent.edu/early-college/homeschool-resources/These programs allow our teens to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a head start on their educational journey without the hefty price tag of traditional college.But what if college isn’t the right fit for your child? No worries! There are numerous vocational training programs available that can lead to high-demand jobs. For example, just 20 minutes from my home, there’s a major shipyard that offers certifications in trades like welding and heavy machinery. See more info on naval shipyard job training ; https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Careers/Who-We-Hire/Apprenticeships/Naval shipyard information with a partnership with TCC https://help.tcc.edu/s/article/Norfolk-Naval-Shipyard-Apprentice-ProgramTrade based scholarships: https://sections.aws.org/tidewater/scholarships/Tidewater tech school info; https://start.tidewatertechtrades.edu/building-and-construction/?utm_source=google&utm_term=contractor%20license&utm_adgroup=172435267821&utm_campaign=22284945815&utm_device=m&geo=9191089&utm_matchtype=b&utm_network=g&gclid=Cj0KCQjwytS-BhCKARIsAMGJyzqZl1R3Wc-7QHCH9xbxfF0bIv2QlBdElUGolIys9xoVkMtfSURaUvIaAriSEALw_wcB&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD2xm13wIOL4B_NdjJ8xbJ7t4FxgKThese programs often come with financial support, making them accessible for our kids who are more inclined towards hands-on work.Let’s not forget about entrepreneurship! See the top businesses to start in VA with little to no job experience https://www.zenbusiness.com/virginia-best-businesses-to-start/If your child has a creative streak or business sense, starting their own venture is easier than ever. In Virginia, all it takes is a small licensing fee, and they can launch an LLC for just about anything! See the form here: https://www.scc.virginia.gov/businesses/forms-and-fees/virginia-limited-liability-companies/I’ve seen firsthand how empowering it is for kids to explore their interests and turn them into successful side hustles.I often share personal stories about my family’s journey. My husband, for instance, holds multiple master's degrees, yet he’s found success by honing practical skills through certifications. This goes to show that success takes many forms and isn’t defined solely by traditional education.See more info on being a contractor in VA here: https://www.vacontractortraining.com/?src=gadword_branding&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwytS-BhCKARIsAMGJyzp8I1EwyxHbp-VvvKeFcQ7wRSWjrn6B3881DlaamcnC6VjCjuNL5TkaAiFnEALw_wcBAfter the changes in education post-2020, we have so many more resources at our fingertips. Whether it’s online courses, co-ops, or community programs, the landscape of education has expanded tremendously. See the dozens of colleges in VA that live homeschoolers: https://www.homeschoolfacts.com/groups/viewcolleges.php?state=vaI believe it’s crucial for us as parents to explore these diverse options and encourage our children to pursue their passions.If you’re considering homeschooling or are already on this journey, I invite you to check out my blog at www.thefunschoolers.com.

"🎙️ What does Sabbath look like for entrepreneur and homeschool families? 🛑

"🎙️ What does Sabbath look like for entrepreneur and homeschool families? 🛑 How do we balance work, homeschooling, and rest? In this episode, we explore how Sabbath can be intentionally incorporated into busy family life and the essential role women play in creating space for rest and rejuvenation. 👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com [http://www.thefunschoolers.com/] #SabbathRest #Homeschooling #EntrepreneurLife #FamilyBalance #WomenInBusiness #Parenting #Podcast"

what is technology doing to our kids' brains? what analog activities can do for kids in the 21st century

Hey there! Christal Marshall here, and I’ve got something really important to share that’s been on my mind. After diving deep into various educational methods, I’ve discovered some eye-opening truths about what truly works for our kids.I've explored everything from virtual learning platforms to traditional workbooks and curated curriculums. Through all this, one thing has become crystal clear: we need a balance between analog and digital activities. I love looking at how other cultures approach education too. What are the best schools around the world doing? It turns out many of them are leaning back towards good old-fashioned learning—real books, hands-on activities, and skills that go beyond screens.Take Waldorf schools, for example. Many tech-savvy parents in Silicon Valley are pulling their kids out of traditional schools to enroll them in these nature-focused, hands-on environments with minimal technology. They’ve seen the negative impacts of too much screen time and want to nurture a more holistic approach to learning.And then there’s Finland, known for having one of the best education systems in the world. They still prioritize analog activities while achieving impressive academic results. It’s fascinating how these schools are thriving without drowning in tech, and it makes me reflect on what I do at home.Sure, it can be a bit overwhelming and parent-heavy, especially during busy seasons when my work in wedding photography takes off. During those times, I leaned more on virtual learning out of necessity. I totally get that each approach has its drawbacks.But right now, I'm making a conscious effort to visit the library and bookstore regularly. I want my kids to pick out physical books and experience the joy of reading something tangible. Audiobooks play in the background while they’re building or creating, and I try to ensure we get outside to parks and nature as much as we can. I know this isn’t always feasible for every family, but I find that this slower-paced educational approach is incredibly rewarding.Now, here’s the thing: our schools are overloaded with educational technology, and while gamifying learning can seem like a great idea to boost engagement, it comes with its own set of problems. The quick dopamine hits from gamified activities can lead to a cycle where kids become less sensitive to rewards. When the novelty wears off, everything else feels boring and tedious.Think about it: if a child spends a significant part of their day in a gamified environment, they might struggle to find joy in slower-paced, meaningful activities. That’s where executive function comes in—the ability to set goals and work towards them patiently. Delayed gratification is a skill that needs to be nurtured, and it’s something I believe we need to be more mindful of.As much as video games can be fun and engaging, too much can create a dopamine deficit, making everything else seem less exciting. I don’t want to panic over video games, but moderation is key. If a kid is spending hours on games daily, it might lead to a situation where they find real-life interactions and tasks far less stimulating.In conclusion, I think it’s vital for us, as parents and educators, to strike that balance between analog and digital learning. By fostering environments rich in hands-on experiences while still allowing for some tech, we can help our kids thrive both academically and socially. Let’s embrace a more balanced approach to education, one that prepares them for the complexities of life ahead. Thanks for listening, and I hope this resonates with you!

"🎙️ Feeling invisible as a woman? 💭

"🎙️ Feeling invisible as a woman? 💭 Listen to this! In this episode, I share empowering book recommendations that will help you reclaim your voice, confidence, and strength. Don't miss these powerful reads! 👉 Listen now: www.thefunschoolers.com [http://www.thefunschoolers.com/] #WomenEmpowerment #BookRecommendations #Confidence #SelfLove #MomLife #PersonalGrowth #Podcast"