Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

"I've Had It Too": Why Needing a Break Doesn't Make You a Bad Mom // 73

Have you ever needed a break from your kids and wondered what that says about you as a mom? What if the thing that's throwing off your whole season isn't a big dramatic crisis, but something small and undramatic that quietly changed everything underneath it? And can wanting rest and loving your kids well actually be the same thing? In this episode, I respond to the viral comments from a host on the "I've Had It" podcast about homeschooling and needing to "get her kids out of the house" — but instead of arguing the politics of it, she turns the conversation toward the mama who felt a flicker of guilt in the reaction to it. I share about a recent fall that's thrown off our entire summer and left me with ongoing mobility issues, what I'm learning about rest and being equipped through Philippians 1:6, and why respite isn't something to feel guilty about — it's part of the plan. In this episode: * The viral podcast comments that have homeschool families buzzing, and why the real conversation isn't about her * Elyse's recent fall and what an "undramatic" injury taught her about the extra weight of hard seasons * Philippians 1:6 — being equipped doesn't mean having it all figured out * What planned respite actually looks like for special needs families * One small, doable step to take this week if you're in a season of overwhelm Resources mentioned: * Homeschool Strategy Session — a 60-minute call to build your homeschool foundation: speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan * Speaking Life Into Homeschool group coaching — next cohort launching September: speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler * Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood [https://speakinglife.co/motherhood/] * Email: hello@speakinglife.co * Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support [https://www.facebook.com/groups/450702520946605/] * Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/ [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5 [https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/speakinglife] * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

America's 250th: The Untold Sacrifices Behind "We Hold These Truths" // 72

Do you ever feel like you're teaching your kids the same dry, disconnected list of historical events without helping them connect to the real people behind it? Have you wondered how to raise kids who feel genuine pride in their country instead of confusion over conflicting narratives? And if you're anything like me, have you caught yourself thinking "I didn't know that" more times than you'd like to admit when it comes to our own American history? In today's episode, I sit down with Janie Nitze — co-author with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch of the new children's picture book Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence. We talk about the ordinary men, women, and even children who risked everything for the cause of independence, why the illustrations and storytelling in this book read like a true living book, and how the sacrifices of the founding generation can inspire courage in our own kids today. As we celebrate America's 250th, I think you'll walk away from this conversation with a renewed sense of gratitude and a wonderful resource to share history with your kiddos. Connect with Janie: * Book: Heroes of 1776: The Story of the Declaration of Independence by Neil Gorsuch and Janie Nitze, illustrated by Chris Ellison * Available at your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon (audio version also available) * Also by Janie Nitze and Justice Neil Gorsuch: Overruled and A Republic, If You Can Keep It While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler * Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood [https://speakinglife.co/motherhood/] * Email: hello@speakinglife.co * Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support [https://www.facebook.com/groups/450702520946605/] * Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/ [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5 [https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/speakinglife] * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

Is Sensory Processing Disorder Causing Your Child's Meltdowns? Sensory Needs, Primitive Reflexes, Emotional Dysregulation in Your Homeschool //71

Are you afraid to pull your child out of school because they're receiving occupational therapy and you don't want them to lose those services?  Do you find yourself wondering if your child's meltdowns and emotional outbursts are a behavior problem—or something deeper going on in their nervous system?  Are you overwhelmed by sensory needs and have no idea where to even start? In this episode, I'm joined again by Tiffany Parsons, pediatric occupational therapist, homeschool mom of twins, and micro school teacher, for a conversation that is going to change the way you think about your child's behavior AND your homeschool. We're talking about the eight senses (yes, eight!), how primitive reflexes affect emotional regulation, why your child's meltdowns aren't a discipline problem, and what OT actually looks like outside of the school system. Connect with Tiffany: Facebook: Homeschool OT Tiffany Parsons Resources Mentioned: * All Different Yet the Same [https://www.amazon.com/All-Different-Same-Tiffany-Parsons/dp/B0G3Y8CG3B/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DJXJ9NOHKB3A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.NZZQpn7GKskTHbm8rmizBWdj-hPWb3ofng2uG86Lodwqd61Aos7YXKr5p_abkhNbMEz499lcoDyhLsJfqN0IIw.fmeuZ5_kM2QSVbcy6lX6pJf6dyKk7K25XYHRAbw9_k4&dib_tag=se&keywords=All+Different+Yet+the+Same+tiffany&qid=1780598371&sprefix=all+different+yet+the+same+tiffany%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-1] by Tiffany Parsons — available on Amazon * Calm Connection Parenting with Jami Kirkbride (uniquely wired kids coaching) While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler * Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood [https://speakinglife.co/motherhood/] * Email: hello@speakinglife.co * Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support [https://www.facebook.com/groups/450702520946605/] * Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/ [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5 [https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/speakinglife] * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

How To Try Out Homeschooling This Summer (Hint: It's not what you think) //70

Are you thinking about homeschooling this fall — but feeling overwhelmed by where to even begin? What if the best thing you could do this summer had nothing to do with curriculum? Are you ready to stop replicating school at home and start rediscovering the joy of learning together? Could this summer actually be the foundation your whole homeschool year is built on — if you know how to use it? In this episode, I'm sharing six practical focuses for families who want to try out homeschooling this summer — and I promise, none of them involve workbooks or lesson plans. From deschooling and interest-led learning to building rhythms, caring for your littles, tending to yourself, and building an emotional regulation foundation, this episode will help you step into fall with confidence and peace instead of panic. Resources Mentioned: * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program (founding member pricing + bonuses — starts June 15!) → speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] * Free Preschool & Early Elementary Visual Schedule + Calm Down Area Resource → https://speakinglife.co/visuals/ [https://speakinglife.co/visuals/] * Simplified Feast Summer Curriculum →  * Episode with Janée Daniels on deschooling →  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-former-teachers-guide-to-going-from-school-to/id1790191030?i=1000766120142] * Episode on visuals and how to use them →  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/26-overwhelmed-over-stimulated-by-summer-meltdowns/id1790191030?i=1000717128360] While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler * Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood [https://speakinglife.co/motherhood/] * Email: hello@speakinglife.co * Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support [https://www.facebook.com/groups/450702520946605/] * Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/ [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5 [https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/speakinglife] * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.

Do You Feel Like You're Not Qualified to Homeschool? The Homeschool How To's Cheryl Daley Has News for You //69

**Homeschool Mini Series! I'm taking a few weeks to do a mini series focusing on homeschooling and home educating- perfect for those who are thinking about a change come fall or just need ideas for ways to keep learning fun and engaging this summer break!** Are you dreaming about homeschooling but convinced you're not qualified—or that your child's additional needs make it impossible? What if everything you think school has to look like is actually holding you back? Could your "unschooling" moments already be the best education your child is getting? In this episode, I sit down with Cheryl Daly, host of The Homeschool How To podcast, who has interviewed over 200 homeschooling families from all over the world.  We talk about what homeschool can actually look like day-to-day, why neurodivergent kids often thrive outside traditional classrooms, and how you can start without quitting your job or buying a $500 curriculum. If you've been on the fence, this conversation might be the push you've been waiting for. Connect with Cheryl:  🎙️ Podcast: The Homeschool How To  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-homeschool-how-to/id1672109465] 🌐 Website: thehomeschoolhowto.com [https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/]  📱 Instagram: @thehomeschoolhowtopodcast Resources Mentioned: * The Homeschool How To e-book (find at thehomeschoolhowto.com) * Work & Homeschool Course by Cheryl Daly * Treehouse Schoolhouse unit studies * Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto * Tuttle Twins books * HSLDA.org – state-by-state homeschool requirements While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive! Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler * Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood [https://speakinglife.co/motherhood/] * Email: hello@speakinglife.co * Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support [https://www.facebook.com/groups/450702520946605/] * Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/ [https://speaking-life.kit.com/979fe54bb0] * Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5 [https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/speakinglife] * Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan [https://speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan/] Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods.