What makes someone with a doctorate in education decide to homeschool her own children? And why would an education researcher who understands the concerns around screen time choose online curriculum for her kids?

Those are just two of the questions I get into with Dr. Kelly Cagle, former high school teacher, education researcher, homeschooling mom of three boys, and host of the Parenting IQ podcast.

Kelly didn't originally set out to homeschool. Four years ago, her oldest son's soccer training schedule made their previous school arrangement impossible. What started as a practical decision turned into something their family has continued to choose, year after year.

We talk about what Kelly learned from her professional background in education, why she believes children need room to develop their individual strengths, and how homeschooling has allowed her oldest son to pursue soccer while continuing his education.

But one of the most interesting parts of our conversation is her current curriculum choice. Kelly's boys are using an online program they've enjoyed more than the alternatives they've tried. They're getting started without the usual battles, and she's seeing benefits. At the same time, she's wrestling with her concerns about screen time and trying to find the right balance for her family.

We also talk about navigating ADHD and dyslexia, why her son can learn while moving around, what happened when she spent $1,200 on curriculum before understanding how her children learned, and how she approaches resistance to schoolwork.

And when it comes to preparing kids for adulthood, Kelly has two priorities that go beyond textbooks: knowing how to make money and knowing how to communicate.

This is an honest conversation about the decisions behind one family's homeschool—not a claim that there's one right way to educate every child.

Connect with Dr. Kelly Cagle:

The IQ Network

Mom IQ Resources & Parenting IQ Podcast
Helping parents find their rhythm and raise confident ADHDers.

10 Simple ADHD Strategies for Tired Moms

Acellus

Deschooling Society

Ready to homeschool but wondering where to start?

📘 Grab my book, So You Want to Homeschool? Everything You Need to Know Before You Start

🎓 Need a step-by-step plan? Check out Cheryl's mini-course, How to Work and Homeschool 

📚 Still wondering, ”What do I actually teach?” My guide walks you through exactly what homeschool families focus on by age and subject.

If you're trying to figure out what homeschooling could look like for your family, follow The Homeschool How To Podcast for more real conversations with homeschooling parents.

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