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Don’t miss this opportunity to see a phenomenon you and your kids will talk about for years. Please note: This podcast episode is from 2017 but I have updated this blog post for the upcoming solar eclipse in 2024.

The best way to see the eclipse in 2024 is to be somewhere along the path of totality that goes from Mexico to Maine. Even if you’re outside this area, you’ll still be treated to a sight unparalleled in all of nature.

Think about it: the moon will pass between the earth and the sun and darkness will engulf you. The stars will be visible at midday!

A short video illustrating why we don’t have an eclipse every month.

The best way to view the eclipse is to be there in person. For many people in the United States, you can drive 4-6 hours and be along the path of totality.

If you live along that path, or you plan to travel, here are a few tips:

Don’t wait until the last minute to make plans. Travel will be difficult as the date approaches, especially around major metropolitan areas.

If you want to use this as an opportunity to teach your kids about astronomy, find some books or videos to share with them. You might want to start with my blog post Best Resources for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.

Whether it’s while traveling or when viewing the eclipse, safety is important. Animals freak out when an eclipse occurs so if you’re in a rural area watch out for strange behavior.

Don’t plan to drive too far on the day of the eclipse. If you need to travel that day be conscious of the fact that many people will be trying to do the same thing.

Make sure you have protective eyewear for viewing the eclipse. DO NOT look directly at the sun until it’s totally covered! Once the sun is covered, you can remove your glasses for naked eye observation.

I recommend that you and your family observe the event alone. If you plan to go to a viewing party be aware of the people around you. Don’t block a person’s view.

If someone has a telescope, DO NOT just walk up and use it. Don’t even touch it without permission. Professional and amateur astronomers are kind and helpful people but touching their equipment without permission is a no-no.

Ideally, you want to see the eclipse in person. However, work requirements, family situations, and other situations out of your control may prevent that.

If you live anywhere in the lower 48 states, you’ll be able to see a partial eclipse. The same safety rules apply when viewing the eclipse. At no point during a partial eclipse is it safe for you to remove protective eyewear.

If it’s cloudy where you are or you live in Alaska or Hawaii or you want to watch the eclipse from overseas I recommend checking out the NASA Live Stream or the SLOOH Live Stream.

Both of these sites will have excellent programming leading up to and on the day of the eclipse. Again, it’s not the best option but it’s better than nothing.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

If you’re new to the podcast, you might be wondering why I haven’t released an episode. If you’ve been around here for a long time you may want to know what’s going on.

If you want to keep up with me on social media (not the blog/podcast) you can follow me on Twitter and Instagram.

Are you planning to give your child a smartphone, tablet, or console this holiday season? Before you wrap it (if you haven’t already) consider doing a few things first.

The number one piece of advice I give parents when buying their child a device is to set expectations. You need to decide what kind of restrictions you’ll put in place and how you want it to be used. Will you limit how often and how long they’re allowed to use it? Will you limit the types of games they’re allowed to play? All of these things should be thought about before you give them the device so you can set their expectations after they receive it.

Nearly every electronic device comes with some form of parental controls. I’ve advocated for them for over 10 years and companies are finally making it easier for parents to manage how, when, and how long their children use their devices.

Screen Time (iOS) – Apple has always had a walled garden so you’ll either need to manage your child’s device directly or use another iOS device. Screen Time has great controls and works well with Family Sharing.

Family Link (Android) If you got your child any smartphone besides an iPhone you most-likely will use Family Link to manage parental controls. Fortunately, they have an iOS app too.

Amazon FreeTime Fire tablets, TVs, and even Alexa-enable devices can be managed with Amazon’s FreeTime. In my experience, Amazon has the weakest controls.

Consoles: The Nintendo Switch and XBox both have dedicated apps that you can use to manage parental controls on their consoles. Sony’s Playstation requires you to use a browser or its general Playstation app.

For whole-house Internet controls you can turn to your router or a secondary device. If you’re using the router your Internet provider installed, check with them for information on parental controls. I suggest either a second router for the kids or Circle by Disney.

Circle Home Plus – The Circle Home Plus device connects with your router to manage every Internet-connected device on your home network.

Home Router – Every home router these days has some level of parental controls. Check your manufacturer’s website for instructions to configure those settings.

No solution will fully protect you and your children so if you need to take a belt and suspenders approach I recommend installing an app on their device for additional monitoring.

Covenant Eyes – I’ve been an advocate (and affiliate) for Covenant Eyes for over a decade. They’re the gold-standard when it comes to monitoring and filtering.

Accountable2You – If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, Accountable2You has got you covered. It occasionally triggers false alarms but I’ve still found it to be a useful tool.

If you found value in this episode of The Wired Homeschool, consider a donation that reflects the value you received by buying me a coffee.

Music for the podcast is “Loopster” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Some of the links in the posts on this site are “affiliate links.” That means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive a commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

If you were forced into homeschooling because of an emergency, you may have found that it works well for your family and want to continue.

Maybe you’re not comfortable with how your school district is planning to reopen or you’ve decided that this is something you think is a good fit for your family.

In this episode of The Wired Homeschool my wife Lisa joins me to talk about homeschooling philosophy, curriculum, online resources, and more.

We condense 20 years of homeschooling into a 30-minute episode. Listen in to learn what you need to know if you plan to homeschool after COVID.

Resources mentioned (in order):

Ducksters

Cathy Duffy Reviews

The Great Courses

Khan Academy

Multiflyer

Mark Rober

Cincinnati Zoo

Deep Space Sparkle

Art for Kids Hub

Scouter Mom

Danica McKellar’s Math Books

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

If you’re looking for homeschooling inspiration, you might not immediately think of a Fortune 500 CEO. But Ursula Burns—the powerhouse who led Xerox and headed the White House STEM program—is a masterclass in authenticity and strategic thinking.

Whether you are a veteran homeschooler or just starting out, here are six leadership lessons from Ursula Burns that can transform your school year.

In the early days of her career, Ursula Burns famously refused to change her hair to fit a corporate mold. She encourages people, especially in STEM, to use their uniqueness as a way to stand out rather than blend in.

The Homeschool Takeaway: Sometimes being the “homeschool family” feels like a burden or a label we have to explain. Instead, teach your kids to lean into it. Their unconventional education is their superpower. It makes them unique, adaptable, and interesting. Don’t just be okay with being different—own it.

Great CEOs don’t bark orders from an ivory tower; they listen to the people on the ground. Ursula Burns knew that for a company to thrive, she needed to hear from her team.

The Homeschool Takeaway: You might be the principal, but your kids are your team. As they grow, their interests will shift. If you want them to stay invested in their education, you have to listen to what sparks their curiosity. When they have a say in what they learn, they take ownership of how they learn.

Burns has been vocal about the fact that partners need to step up, especially when it comes to raising a family. No one reaches the top of a global company (or a successful school year) without a support system.

The Homeschool Takeaway: One parent shouldn’t carry the entire weight of education, house management, and planning. Whether it’s involving your spouse, joining a co-op, or utilizing online resources, remember that homeschooling is a team sport. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

From navigating tough business deals to advocating for STEM, Burns knows how to hold her position.

The Homeschool Takeaway: Let’s be real—you’re probably going to face skepticism. Whether it’s a pushy relative or a stranger at the grocery store asking about socialization, you need to be confident in your “why.” Know your reasons for homeschooling and be prepared to stand your ground when your choices are questioned.

In business, you track goals to make better decisions. But Burns knows that the right metrics matter more than just raw numbers.

The Homeschool Takeaway: Grades and test scores are just data points—they aren’t the end goal. In our house, we measure success by a love of learning and the ability to solve problems. Ask yourself: Is my child becoming a resourceful, kind, and curious adult? That’s the “ROI” (Return on Investment) that truly counts.

Burns is a big believer that you need to enjoy your work to truly succeed.

The Homeschool Takeaway: If homeschooling feels like a heavy chain around your neck every day, something needs to change. There is so much joy to be found in a “history nugget” or a science experiment gone wrong. Find the fun in the process. When the teacher is enjoying the journey, the students will too.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Educational content is available all over the Internet. As streaming services become more popular, more educational documentaries become available to homeschoolers.

Previously, I’ve shared YouTube channels and documentaries on Netflix that are educational. In this episode of The Wired Homeschool, I share 10 documentaries you can find on Hulu right now that you can use for homeschooling.

The list reflects my leaning towards science and technology (especially, space) but you can find other interesting educational content on Hulu that covers topics like humanities, finances, and history.

Updated 3/16/2020 — Since the release of the podcast, some of the titles mentioned in the recording are no longer available. I’ve substituted the missing titles with the current ones.

Drugs: A multibillion-dollar industry that fuels crime and violence like no other substance on the planet. Turning cartel leaders into billionaires, the illegal drug industry also provides vital income to hundreds of thousands of poor workers across the globe. Rating: TV-14. Watch now.

The MythBusters, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, two special effects experts with more than 30 years of experience, methodically set out to bust urban legends. Rating: PG. Watch now.

Some images caught by satellites in space defy explanation: massive tsunamis that disappear, a sinister blood-red lake in war-torn Baghdad and a whirlpool in the ocean the size of a state asking experts, analysing the sites on the ground ‘What on Earth’. Rating: TV-PG. Watch now.

Directed, produced, and narrated by Academy Award®-nominated and Emmy®-winning Rory Kennedy, the film examines the ways NASA has changed not only our vision of the universe, but also our planet, and ourselves. Running time: 90 minutes. Rating: NR. Watch now

Crafted from a newly-discovered trove of 70mm footage, and more than 11,000 hours of uncatalogued audio recordings, Apollo 11 goes straight to the heart of NASA’s most celebrated mission. Rating: G. Watch now.

Oscar®-nominated documentarian Werner Herzog (Grizzly Man, Cave of Forgotten Dreams) chronicles the virtual world from its origins to its outermost reaches. Rating: PG-13. Watch now

An intimate portrait of an unlikely rock star: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. With unprecedented access, the filmmakers explore how her early legal battles changed the world for women. Rating: PG. Watch now.

How It’s Made shows viewers how many of the everyday objects we seldom stop to think about become the things they are. Viewers will be amazed to see the process of how many common items are manufactured in high-tech factories around the world. Running time: 22 minutes per episode. Rating: TV-G. Watch now.

In this documentary series, we explore the future of energy in America’s Heartland and how that will shape the future of our climate. Running time: 11-15 minutes. Rating: NR. Watch now.

A black ops cyber-attack launched by the U.S. and Israel on an Iranian nuclear facility unleashed malware with unforeseen consequences. The Stuxnet virus infiltrated its pre-determined target only to spread its infection outward, ultimately exposing systemic vulnerabilities that threatened the very safety of the planet. Delve deep into the burgeoning world of digital warfare in this documentary thriller from Academy Award® winning filmmaker Alex Gibney. Running time: 114 minutes. Rating: R. Watch now.

If you found value in these ideas,...

Michael Prince from BecauseFamily joins me again to discuss safe digital parenting.

With the holidays just around the corner, you’ll want to make sure any gifts you’re giving to your kids are safe and ready to use when they’re unwrapped.

Michael and I talk about some of the things you’ll want to do before handing a pocket-computer over to your kids this Christmas.

iOS 12’s Screen Time App Changes Everything!
The Best Way to Keep Your Kids Safe On Youtube
Circle With Disney Whole-House Device Management
Accountable2You – Accountability Software
Bark – Monitor Your Kid’s Online Activity

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Many kids and parents are fascinated by the night sky but don’t know where to start with nightly observations. With Experience Astronomy homeschool parents and students can learn to navigate the heavens and figure out if that bright light is a planet, star, or just an airplane.

Luke Gilkerson is the creator of Experience Astronomy, a series of online courses for homeschool students of all ages. For the last several years he has taught astronomy at his local homeschool co-op and now also enjoys teaching over 1,000 students all over the world about the sky! Learn more at experienceastronomy.com.

Experience Astronomy
Neave Planetarium 

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

A major part of homeschooling involves teaching practical life skills like how to fix cars.

OK, maybe not everyone needs to learn to fix a car but basic maintenance or knowing when to take your car to a mechanic are skills every homeschooler should learn.

If you have a budding mechanic or if you don’t think you can’t teach your kids to change the oil in a car, you can lean on these 7 YouTube channels to help you and your kids learn how to fix cars.

With 50 years of experience as a mechanic, Scotty Kilmer provides down-to-earth advice in his videos. You won’t get detailed instructions for repairs but his decades of experience are an invaluable resource for beginner mechanics.

When I need to fix something on my 2000 Honda Civic or 2004 Odyssey, the first YouTube channel I check is Eric the Car Guy‘s. Eric’s videos often provide step-by-step instructions for many common repairs. It also helps that he used to be a Honda-certified mechanic.

Honestly, I don’t know how Charles, aka Humble Mechanic, keeps his beard out of the way when he works. Here’s another great channel to learn how to repair cars with step-by-step instructions.

When I want to learn about certain automotive principles I check out Engineering Explained. On this channel, Chris explains how a car works. This is very important when you want to learn to repair them

Often when you see videos on YouTube they don’t show you how to make the repairs with common hand tools. ChrisFix shows you how easy it is to maintain and repair your car with common hand tools.

The first mechanic channel I subscribed to was Richpin’s. I had an old Saturn wagon that needed some mechanical help and his videos helped me save money by doing the repairs myself.

Bonus: Mighty Car Mods
Out of all the channels, Marty and Moog over at Mighty Car Mods are probably the most entertaining. What started as a channel that featured simple modifications done on a weekend now features weeks-long projects that turn out fantastic & fun cars.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

When you think of 3D printers, what comes to mind? Do you think technology like 3d printing is beyond the reach of homeschoolers?

It’s not! 3D printers have become affordable and easy to use. There are many 3D printers that have been specifically designed for home use and homeschoolers can use them to teach STEM topics.

Your kids can learn about 3D modelling, engineering, and other scientific principles while designing their own creations. Who knows, maybe your child might design a better mousetrap with his or her 3D printer.

In this podcast, I’ll cover the basics of 3D printing, some basic guidelines to consider when purchasing a 3D printer and talk about 5 3D printers under $500 for homeschooling. If you’re already familiar with 3D printing you can skip ahead to the list.

Let’s start with a primer on how 3D printing works. 3D printing can also be referred to as “additive manufacturing”. The printer slowly adds material to build the 3D object through an extruder.

Most 3D printers use a technology called Fused Deposition Modeling, or FDM for short. The material, or filament, is added layer by layer on to a build plate in 2D layers. When all of the layers have been completed, a 3D object has been printed.

The filament in a printer can consist of many different materials but most are PLA or ABS plastic. All the printers discussed here use PLA, a non-toxic material derived from natural materials like sugar cane.

For more information about 3D printing and how 3D printers work, check out this guide from 3Dprint: What is 3D Printing & How Do 3D Printers Work?

Prices for 3D printers vary depending on their application. Many entry-level 3D printers can be had for under $500. Some hobbyists spend $2,000 – $5,000 on personal 3D printers.

I’m primarily focusing on entry-level 3D printers designed for home use. If you plan to purchase one here are some things to consider:

• Safety features. The filament can be very hot when extruded from the nozzle so consider features like an enclosure and a tip sensor so that printing stops if the door is opened or the printer is tipped.
• Ease of use and setup. Does the 3D printer need to be assembled or is it ready to go out of the box? Is the software provided easy to use for your kids?
• Cost of supplies. Most printers come with a small about of filament. Once that runs out how much will it cost? Does the 3D printer support generic filament or is it proprietary?
• Software included. What software is included with the printer? Is it compatible with other 3D printing software or can you only use the software designed specifically for the 3d printer?
• Online resources. Does the manufacturer provide online educator’s resources? Are there lesson plans and a curriculum guide available? Are these guides designed for home use or in a classroom?
• Build volume and resolution. How big are the objects that you can print? Also, how fine is the nozzle? Can you print smooth and intricate objects or will you need to manually add details.
• Production speed. Depending on the size and complexity of the object being printed, it can take as little as 10 minutes or several hours to complete. If you have impatient kids, consider a 3D printer with faster production speeds.
• Additional features. Heated plates, wireless or Bluetooth connectivity, and LCD screens are just some of the options you’ll find. Typically, the more convenience features a 3D printer has, the higher the cost.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of 3D printing and what you want to look for in a 3D printer, let’s talk about some of the 3D printers that you might want to consider for homeschooling.

XYZprinting’s da Vinci series is colorful and affordable. Designed specifically for young kids, the miniMaker uses a proprietary filament and software package.

It comes with 300g of starter filament and you’ll have access to a free online curriculum and education guide.

It has one the largest build areas on this list at 5.9″ x 5.9″ x 5.9″ but the built plate is not removable.

da Vinci miniMaker – $189 at Amazon

The MP Select Mini is a great 3D printer for people who want an open platform. It can use any compatible filament and software package.

Despite its low price, it features a heated build plate , color LED screen, nozzle cooling fan, and accessory kit. All of these features are normally only found in more expensive 3D printers.

It ships fully assembled but getting started has a pretty steep learning curve. Be prepared to tinker and tweak to get it going. Build area is 4.7″ x 4.7″ x 4.7″.

MP Select Mini – $219 at Amazon

Toybox is designed to get kids started with 3D printing quickly and easily. It comes with a companion app that lets kids find and print toys easily. It has the smallest build area on the list: 3.5″ x 3″ x 3.9″

It comes with half a pound (~225g) of “printer food” and features a removable, flexible build bed that allows kids to easily remove their builds. Additional “food packs” are available for $34 that include your choice of 4 colors of filament.

Toybox is currently on back-order until March and will retail for $399 but if you purchase through their crowdfunding campaign you’ll save 25%.

Preorder ToyBox from IndieGoGo – $299

The Finder is an entry-level 3D printer from Flashforge. It comes pre-assembled, is easy to use, and features a number of convenience features.

It uses a proprietary filament so you’ll be buying your supplies from Flashforge and that will limit your selection of colors.

Features include a filament run-out detection, a color LCD screen, removable built plate, and USB stick support. The build area is about 5.5″ x 5.5″ x 5.5″ making it one of the largest in the group.

Flashforge Finder at Amazon – $399

Printrbot Play provides high-quality 3D printing at an affordable price. It has a metal chassis, fan shroud, and heat shield to protect little fingers from touching the hot nozzle.

Printrbot Play uses open filament so you’ll have plenty of choices with regard to color and spool capacity. Printrbot is known for their customer service and a great community surrounding their 3D printers.

In addition, PrintrBot provides lesson plans and other educational resources for use with their 3D printers.

The movable stage has a print volume of 4″ x 4″ x 5″.

Printrbot Play at Amazon – $499

Do you have a 3D printer? What model would you recommend? Are you thinking about introducing 3d printing to your kids? Let me know in the comments below.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Sometimes being on the Internet is like driving into oncoming traffic. It’s bad enough there are potholes, reckless drivers, and traffic jams to deal with when making your way down the “information superhighway” (bonus points for 90s tech references) but if you’re not careful you and your kids can inadvertently swerve into oncoming traffic.

Following simple safety tips will keep you safe on the real roads and these 10 Internet safety tips for teens and tweens will keep you and your kids safe on your digital drive.

1. Think before you post.
2. Respect other people online, and avoid gossip.
3. Ask for permission before you meet online friends in person.
4. Don’t feed cyberbullies—block the sender, ignore mean messages, file a report with the website or police.
5. Speak up if you see someone getting bullied.
6. Clean up your profile, eliminate your page of everything too personal, embarrassing, and illegal.
7. Use privacy settings.
8. Monitor what others post about you.
9. Keep adults in the loop—tell them when you add new sites, new friends, or see something suspicious or harmful.
10. Use your voice for good—use social media to do something productive for you or a cause.

How do you keep your kids safe online?

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

When you think of Bill Gates, you probably think of Microsoft, massive innovation, and—let’s be honest—being one of the wealthiest people on the planet. He didn’t get there by accident. He got there through a specific mindset and a few core strategies.

As a homeschool parent, you might feel more like a stressed-out startup founder than a billionaire tech mogul. But here’s the cool part: the same principles that built a tech empire can help you build an incredible learning environment for your kids.

Let’s look at how to “Bill Gates” your homeschool routine.

Bill Gates was famous for being in the right place at the right time (and recognizing it). In homeschooling, we call this the “teachable moment.”

You might have a lesson plan for long division, but if your child is suddenly fascinated by how the shadows move on the sidewalk, pivot. Don’t force the workbook if there’s a real-world epiphany happening right in front of you. Successful “educational CEOs” know when to seize an opportunity that wasn’t on the calendar.

Nobody builds an empire alone. Gates had Paul Allen; you need a support system.

Whether it’s a spouse who handles the science experiments, a local homeschool co-op, or an online community, don’t try to be the sole source of all knowledge. If you’re struggling with a subject, find a partner or a resource to fill the gap. Collaboration isn’t “cheating”—it’s smart management.

Microsoft didn’t launch perfectly (anyone remember Windows ME?). There were bugs, crashes, and failures.

Homeschooling is the same. You will have days where the curriculum is a bust and everyone ends up in tears. That’s okay. The goal isn’t a perfect day; it’s the long game. When things go wrong, debug the system, reboot, and try again tomorrow. Resilience is the best subject you can teach.

Gates changed the world because he wasn’t afraid to think big. Are we giving our kids the space to do the same?

Encourage your kids to pursue their “crazy” passions. If they want to build a robot, write a novel, or start a YouTube channel about lizards, give them the tools to try. Even if they have to do their “boring” math first, never let them lose that spark for big, audacious dreams.

If there’s one thing Bill Gates is known for today, it’s his reading list. He never stopped being a student.

The ultimate goal of homeschooling isn’t just to pass a test or graduate high school—it’s to create a human who knows how to learn anything. Model this for your kids. Let them see you reading, tackling new hobbies, and asking questions. If they leave your “school” with a curiosity that never ends, you’ve already won.

Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Teaching STEM isn’t just about textbooks; it’s about tinkering, failing, and finally getting that “Aha!” moment. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to invest in some cool tech, these 15 ideas will keep your kids engaged and curious.

YouTube is a goldmine for visual learners. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, point your kids toward these five heavy-hitters that make complex science feel like a magic show:

• Smarter Every Day: Deep dives into how the world works.
• The Backyard Scientist: Wild experiments you definitely shouldn’t do in your kitchen.
• The King of Random: Life hacks and DIY science projects.
• Veritasium: Mind-blowing physics and engineering.
• SciShow Kids: Perfect for younger elementary learners.

LEGO isn’t just a toy; it’s a structural engineering kit. Use what you already have in the bin to teach math, geometry, and physics.

• 50+ LEGO STEM Activities: A massive list of printables and challenges.
• Learning Liftoff’s 20 LEGO Ideas: Great for all grade levels.
• Walking by the Way’s Free Resources: The ultimate hub for LEGO printables.

If it moves and shouldn’t, use duct tape. If it doesn’t move and should… well, you can still use duct tape to build it!

• Duct Tape Crafts: From wallets to prom dresses.
• Science Projects with Duct Tape: A “Science Buddies” experiment testing the limits of adhesive strength.

Combine engineering with a love for Sci-Fi. Whether it’s a desktop model or a full-sized “bigger on the inside” fort, this is STEAM at its best.

• Small Scale: Cereal Box TARDIS Tutorial
• Large Scale: Refrigerator Box TARDIS (Instructables)
• LEGO Version: Official LEGO Ideas TARDIS (Instruction Link)

If you want to introduce coding without a screen-heavy environment, Dash and Dot from Wonder Workshop are fantastic. They’re durable, cute, and grow with your child’s coding skills.

Board games are secret math and logic teachers.

• Blokus: Spatial reasoning.
• Qwirkle: Patterns and strategy.
• Robot Turtles: Teaches the basics of programming to preschoolers.
• Leaving Earth: Hardcore space race history and math.

For a budget-friendly entry into robotics, the Edison Robot is hard to beat. It’s LEGO-compatible, meaning your kids can build a crane or a tank on top of a programmable base.

Instructables is the “how-to” capital of the internet. Here are five projects that will keep your hands busy for days:

• Candle-Powered Hot Air Balloon
• Arduino Weather Station
• Simple Circuits from a Pizza Box
• Near-Space Balloon Tracker
• DIY Bicycle Safety Lights

If you prefer a structured curriculum, fishertechnik STEM kits are the gold standard. They provide everything from the parts to the lesson plans, covering mechanics, electronics, and renewable energy.

No time to shop for supplies? KiwiCo delivers a high-quality STEM project to your door every month. The Tinker Crate (ages 9-14+) is especially great for budding engineers.

Nothing teaches physics and aerodynamics like hurtling down a hill in a wooden car you built yourself.

• Official Soap Box Derby Plans: The pros’ guide to building.
• Simple DIY Gravity Car: A modern, fun take on the classic build.

Scratch (developed by MIT) is the best free way to teach kids to code. They use “blocks” to build games and animations. Check out their Ideas page for starter projects.

For kids who want to move past “drag-and-drop” coding and into real electronics, Creation Crate teaches you how to build and program Arduino-based gadgets with real components.

Fire is the ultimate attention-grabber. It’s also a masterclass in chemical reactions.

• The Science of Fire: A great visual explanation of what fire actually is.
• Science Buddies: Fire Experiments: Safe, structured ways to experiment with combustion.

Let your kids be the next Bill Nye! Recording an experiment requires them to understand the concepts well enough to explain them. Use a smartphone and a free editor like CapCut or iMovie to create their own “viral” science videos.

Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and

When you think of Sir Richard Branson, you probably picture private islands, Virgin Records, or commercial space flights. You might not immediately think of homeschooling.

But here’s the thing: Branson’s approach to business and life is actually the perfect blueprint for a thriving homeschool. He’s built an empire on curiosity, risk-taking, and—most importantly—having a blast.

If you’re feeling a little burnt out by the daily grind of lesson plans and grading, let’s take a page out of the Branson playbook. Here are five ways to channel your inner billionaire entrepreneur in your living room classroom.

Branson is famous for saying that he never does anything with a feeling of, “Oh God, I’ve got to do this today.” Can we say the same about our homeschools?

Look, we all have those days where the kids are grumpy, you’re exhausted, and the math book feels like an enemy. Those days are going to happen. But “un-fun” shouldn’t be your default setting.

Pro Tip: If your kid is currently trying to turn the kitchen into a Nerf war zone while you’re trying to teach grammar, pivot. Take the “Branson approach.” Find a way to enjoy the process, or change the method. Life is too short for a miserable homeschool.

It is so tempting to buy a “school-in-a-box” curriculum, follow the script, and check the boxes. It’s safe. It’s easy. And it’s… a little boring.

Branson didn’t build Virgin by playing it safe. He explored uncharted territory. In your homeschool, this means realizing that education is so much bigger than book-work.

Don’t be afraid to:

• Scrap the lesson plan for a spontaneous field trip.
• Let your child deep-dive into a “weird” hobby for a month.
• Try a teaching method that feels a little outside your comfort zone.

We’ve all seen those “perfect” homeschool moms on Instagram—the ones with the spotless white school rooms and the kids in matching organic linen outfits.

Here is a reality check: Suzy Homeschooler isn’t perfect either.

Social media has created a “perfection monster.” Branson’s success came from making mistakes and learning on the fly. Instead of striving for a flawless aesthetic, strive for excellence. Excellence allows for messy desks, stained shirts, and failed science experiments. Perfection is a facade; excellence is a journey.

It’s easy to get caught up in the homeschool “tribes.” Traditionalists vs. Unschoolers. Secular vs. Religious. Homeschoolers vs. Public Schools.

But Branson knows that a true leader engages in debate to get closer to the truth, not to build walls.

Why did you start this journey? Most likely, it was to give your kids the best possible education in a loving environment. Focus on that mission. Don’t homeschool against something; homeschool for your kids.

In the “daily grind” of phonics and fractions, we sometimes forget to let our kids fantasize about the future.

If your child comes to you with a “crazy” idea—like starting a YouTube channel, building a robot, or writing a novel—don’t be the one to tell them it’s impossible. Branson’s whole career is built on “impossible” ideas.

Talk to them about what it would actually take to get there. Encourage the willpower. Feed the dream. You aren’t just raising students; you’re raising the next generation of innovators.

You don’t need a private island to homeschool like Richard Branson. You just need a little bit of his “screw it, let’s do it” attitude. Make it fun, take some risks, and remember that you’re doing something incredible.

Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

If you had to pick one piece of tech that completely flipped the script on homeschooling, it’s gotta be the iPad. It’s hard to imagine getting through a school day without it. But more than just giving us a cool gadget, Steve Jobs actually left behind a pretty solid roadmap for how to approach education differently.

If you’re looking to shake things up, here are four ways to channel your inner Steve Jobs in your homeschool:

It is so easy to fall into the “groupthink” trap. You know the feeling—where you just go with whatever curriculum is popular or whatever everyone else in your co-op is doing because you don’t want to be the odd one out. But when we’re just trying to fit the mold of a “good homeschooler,” we might miss what actually works for our families. Don’t be afraid to step back and ask if you’re doing something because it’s right for your kids, or just because it’s what everyone else is doing.

Steve Jobs was famous for his daily “uniform”—that black turtleneck and jeans. He didn’t do it for the fashion; he did it to cut out one extra decision from his day. We tend to overcomplicate homeschooling with a million bells and whistles, but sometimes the best thing you can do is strip away the fluff. Finding a simpler way to handle your daily schedule or a specific subject might take some work upfront, but it’ll make you way more consistent and effective in the long run.

Jobs once said that it wasn’t about convincing people they wanted something they didn’t, but rather figuring out what they needed before they even knew it. If you ask your kids what they want out of school, you’ll probably get a very different answer than your own! Your job as the “CEO” of your homeschool is to look ahead, anticipate their needs, and find the tools to meet them. It’s about knowing your ultimate goal and staying focused on that.

Let’s be real: people still think homeschooling is a little bit “out there.” You’ve probably gotten that polite smile and the “Oh, that’s… nice” comment more than once. But honestly? It’s the “crazy” ones who change things. By stepping outside the traditional system, you’re revolutionizing education for your kids. It might feel a bit wild sometimes, but that’s exactly how you change the world—one student at a time.

At the end of the day, homeschooling isn’t about following a perfect script. It’s about being innovative, staying flexible, and not being afraid to do things your own way.

Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Did you know Elon Musk, the genius behind Tesla, SpaceX, and PayPal, homeschools his kids? Well, sort of! He actually started his own super innovative private school for them and about 15 other children. The cool part? No grades, and they pretty much take an unschooling approach to education.

It turns out, his way of thinking about education is a lot like how he tackles his businesses. And guess what? We can totally apply these basic principles to any homeschool setup!

So, how can we bring a little bit of that Elon Musk magic into our homeschooling?

Honestly, I know a lot of homeschoolers (and maybe even myself sometimes!) who are a bit scared of taking risks. When you’re trying to make ends meet on one income, it’s natural to be cautious with your money. This might mean sticking with the same curriculum year after year, even if your kids dread it, just because you know they’ll “learn what they’re supposed to”. Or maybe you skip a cool enrichment opportunity because you’re worried it’ll stretch the budget, fearing your kids won’t even like it.

But here’s the thing: don’t be scared to take a calculated risk!. Imagine your child is super into “swamp rats” for an entire year. Instead of fighting it, find a way to weave swamp rats into your learning!. Yes, it might mean ditching your current curriculum, but it could also mean your kid absolutely loves learning all year long. How cool is that?

Some of us are fantastic at setting goals, right? Others might just take homeschooling one day at a time. Goals are awesome, and plans are super helpful. But what you really need is a vision for the future.

Think about it: A checklist for this school year isn’t quite a vision. A vision is long-term, and it might not even have measurable goals. Your plans and checklists are just the tools that help you work towards that bigger vision. It’s a fantastic idea to sit down with your spouse every year and just talk about what you envision for your homeschool. Do you want to raise future mad scientists or artists who totally follow their own muse? Talk it out, and keep that vision in your heart when you’re planning your homeschool journey.

Let’s face it, we all hit bumps in the road. Every great inventor, successful business owner, or star athlete has faced setbacks. It’s just part of life! Sometimes we, as parents, have setbacks, and sometimes our kids do too.

Don’t let those setbacks stop you from homeschooling!. If health issues pop up, maybe take a year and just focus on the basics: reading, writing, and arithmetic. If you or your spouse are having job troubles, simply shift your schooling to the evenings. The key is to roll with it!.

Use those tough moments to reassess everything and figure out a new plan to deal with future problems. Your kids will be watching you, learning from how you handle the situation, and that’s a powerful lesson in itself.

This is one I personally haven’t nailed yet! If you work from home, it’s a breeze, but if you’re in an office, it’s definitely trickier. Employers aren’t usually thrilled about kids running around. People in trades might have an easier time because the environment often lends itself to having a “helper” tag along.

Mark your calendars! The fourth Thursday in April, is National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. Start planning now! Chat with your employer to see if they’re participating or have anything planned. If not, just ask your manager or supervisor if it would be okay for one or two of your kids to tag along. It’s such a cool experience for them!

As homeschoolers, we’ve already started our own school, right?. But sometimes, many homeschoolers just want a curriculum to follow, and there’s nothing particularly dynamic or exciting about that kind of “school at home”.

So, I say, do something fun, innovative, and totally uncommon in your homeschool!. Don’t ever say things like, “We haven’t finished our lessons today,” when your kids get an awesome invitation to go fishing. Let them go!. Try to break free from that day-in, day-out pattern of just “getting school done,” and instead, blaze your own unique trail.

Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated and edited with the assistance of Gemini.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This week I’m super-psyched to bring you an interview with Rob Jensen from Art for Kids Hub.

Rob Jensen is a father to four children (Jack, Hadley, Austin, and Olivia) and married to Teryn.

His YouTube channel and website have thousands of videos that teach kids (and parents too) how to draw, paint, and more.

Since this interview was recorded, Rob and his family have created a line of art supplies and a subscription service that allows you to watch their art videos in a distraction- and ad-free environment.

Rob graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor’s in Fine Art and used to work for Ford Motor Company. After a successful career with Ford, he and his wife decided to move closer to home to focus more on their family.

Rob and his family love making art together and they record videos every week to share the joy of creating art together as a family.

The Wired Homeschool is underwritten by Scholaric: The homeschool planner that SAVES you time. Plan, track, and organize your homeschool more easily than you ever imagined. Start your free trial today.

“I have always been a learner because I knew nothing.” —Sidney Poitier

Mark Kistler’s Drawing Lessons

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Just a quick note for those of you who may be coming across this for the first time: This podcast is no longer active. It was regularly published from July 2010 to July 2019. I’ve republished this episode for archival purposes.

A wired homeschool is any homeschool that leverages technology to improve their homeschooling experience. If you’re a parent that uses a computer or tablet as the primary mode of instruction or just as tool to enhance your homeschooling this podcast will help you with the technology you’re using for home education.

Episodes were released weekly from 2010 to 2019. Each episode was between 10 and 12 minutes long providing clear and concise information to help you with your homeschool’s tech.

• Online security
• Social media
• Purchasing computers
• Cell phones and smart phones
• Online resources

Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been at it for years there’s something here for you and your family.

If you found value in these ideas, maybe consider buying me a coffee? Even though new episodes aren’t actively being made, there are still costs for hosting and maintaining the website. You can also follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms.

And just so you know, some links you might see are “affiliate links,” meaning if you click and buy, I might get a commission. Sometimes I even get free samples to review, all disclosed transparently.

Music for the podcast is “RetroFuture Clean” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/