Bedtime can be one of the most meaningful — and most challenging — parts of the day.

In this episode, I talk with children’s author Karen Brough about her book The Coast Is Clear and how simple bedtime rhythms can help children feel safe, calm, and connected.

We explore:
• Why bedtime stories matter more than we think
• How to ease anxiety and nighttime fears
• The power of rhythm and language in calming children
• Practical ways to create peaceful bedtime routines
• How homeschool families can extend stories into deeper conversations

If bedtime feels rushed or overwhelming, this conversation offers a gentle, realistic way forward.

Book mentioned - The Coast Is Clear - https://amzn.to/3NTg2h1 [affiliate link]

How do you help a child fall in love with reading—especially if they struggle or resist it?

In this episode, I’m joined by award-winning children’s author Eve Heidi Bine-Stock, creator of Olivia’s Jokes, a story inspired by a real-life moment of kindness and community.

We explore how humor can transform a child’s relationship with reading, why laughter is more powerful than pressure, and how parents—especially homeschool families—can create simple, meaningful experiences that build confidence and creativity.

Eve also shares practical advice for supporting reluctant readers, along with tools that can make reading more engaging and accessible.

Whether you’re raising a young reader or trying to encourage one who’s struggling, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable ideas.

📚 Olivia’s Jokes by Eve Heidi Bine-Stock
https://amzn.to/4lJvkBv (affiliate link — helps support the podcast at no extra cost to you)

In today’s culture, parenting can feel like a constant push toward extremes. Whether the topic is education, discipline, technology, or lifestyle, parents often feel pressure to pick a side.

But what happens when reacting to those extremes causes us to overcorrect?

In this episode of Homeschool Ways, I’m joined by author Manu Brune, whose book Overcorrecting: Parenting in the Middle While the World Shouts in Extremes explores how parents can stay grounded in their values without becoming reactive or rigid.

We discuss:

• What “overcorrecting” looks like in modern parenting

• Why parents feel pressured to choose sides

• The role fear plays in parenting decisions

• How homeschooling families can find healthy balance

• Teaching kids discernment in a polarized world

• A practical step for overwhelmed parents this week

If you’re a homeschool parent navigating cultural pressure and looking for a calmer, wiser path forward, this conversation is for you.