
Hey there! if you are here for the list of poems to memorize, check out our list of Things For Kids to Memorize. Then come on back and listen to the podcast that tells you how to get it done.
Today on the podcast I am joined by Amy Sloan from humilityanddoxology.com and mom of five kids ages 4 to 14. For about the past five years Amy has made memory work a central part of her homeschool day.
In this episode Amy and I discuss how to be consistent with memory work, how you find great pieces to memorize, and practical ways you can make this happen in your home.
We also chat about the debate between memorizing facts versus spending your time memorizing other worthy passages, how to make it work for multiple ages, and even how to deal with attitudes if they arise.
Links and resources from today’s show:
- SPONSOR: Better Homeschool Mornings
- Amy’s website, Humility and Doxology
- Amy on Instagram, @humilityanddoxology
- Humility And Doxology Facebook Page
- 12 Poems Every Child and Adult Should Memorize and Know By Heart
- A Year of Memory Work
- The Ultimate Guide to Memory Work
- 100 Things to Memorize: Memory Work for Homeschool
- YMB #24 A New/Old Look at Memory Work: A Conversation with Kevin Vost
- Holy Sonnets: Death, be not proud by John Donne
- My Shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson
- Celery Poem by Ogden Nash
- Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll
- In Flanders Fields by John McCrae
12 Poems Every Child and Adult Should Memorize and Know By HeartYear of Memory Work
Pam: This is your morning basket, where we help you bring truth, goodness, and beauty to your homeschool day. Hi everyone. And welcome to episode 64 of the, your morning basket podcast. I’m Pam Barnhill, your host, and I am so happy that you are joining me here today. We are continuing our archival episodes of your morning basket pulling over some of those morning time podcasts from the homeschool solution show podcast that I recorded in 2018. So what this episode of the podcast ended up being one of my absolute favorites from last year. And it’s funny because it’s practical, which you guys know I love, but I just didn’t realize how much fun this conversation would be and how much I would get out of it as kind of what I consider more Of a memory work pro. But I Had Amy Sloan from humility and doxology on the podcast,
and we chatted all about memory work. Why do it, how to choose memory work, which items to choose. And it's great because it's all from a mom's perspective. You know, Amy is in the trenches each day with all of her kids and they're working on memory work together. So the toddlers on the table, things are going crazy. She's got all these kids and all of these differing viewpoints and volumes of loudness and all kinds of stuff going on.
And still she is a champion for them arising together. I think you're going to enjoy this episode of the podcast and we'll get on with it right after this word from our sponsor
And it's all about how to get your day off to a better start and stopping those morning struggles that sometimes pop up in our homeschools before they even begin. So in the guide, I will show you how your smartphone can actually be your biggest help. Yes. Help in getting your day started. Well, also my number one, secret sauce tip to getting everyone started with the school day with no yelling or whining.
We'll also talk about the subject you should never ever do first in your homeschool day and why, and a quick and easy way to save a day that is starting to go off the rails. And then finally, some learning tips that even your toughest students will enjoy. So it's a very short, actionable little PDF guide, and you can get it by going to Pam barnhill.com/better.
Get your free guide by going to Pam barnhill.com/better. And now on with the podcast, Amy And her husband, John are second generation homeschoolers by grace alone to five children ages four, seven, nine, 12, and 14. Their educational philosophy is one of humility and doxology and follows primarily a classical approach. Amy loves coffee and starts getting nervous. If the stack of,
to be read library books beside her bed is less than two feet tall. Get her started on Shakespeare, Jane Austin, Homer, or Hamilton, the musical, and it might be hard to get her to stop. Mostly though, she gets really excited about the gospel. You can find Amy online at her blog, humility and doxology.com. And she's going to be talking to us today,
all about memory work in your homeschool from mother's perspective. So Amy, welcome to the program. Thank you so much for having me, Pam. It's really fun. I've been listening to you for years. Oh gosh. Now you're making me feel old. That would make both of us then. Well, it's so good to have you here. And this is something I've been wanting to do for a while because we'd had a few experts come on and talk to us about memory work,
some fabulous interviews with Andrew poodle and dr. Kevin bows, but we've not really talked about memory work from kind of the nitty gritty down in the trenches mom's perspective. And so that was one of the things I really wanted to get from you today. And people are gonna find out later why you're kind of the perfect person to talk to about this, but let's start by you telling me a little bit about your family and you know,
how you started this homeschool thing. Okay. While we are both my husband and I are second generation homeschoolers, which gives us a really unique outside the box perspective, I think, and we always knew we wanted to homeschool from the very beginning. So it has been an adventure of course, with our wide age range. And that's something we really love.
Okay. So there was never any question like this, you are not going to do this. No, it just came up very organically when we, even before we got married and yeah, we just jumped in. So your mom's like, yes. So both my mom and my mother-in-law have definitely, I've learned different things from both of them. And then we kind of put our own twist on stuff and do it our own way.
Okay. Fun. So since you're a second homeschooled or let's talk about this memory work thing, and let's go all the way back to when you were homeschooled, was this something either you or your husband did when you guys were being homeschooled? So not in the same way that we do it with our family memory work from the Bible is very important to both of our moms.
So we did a lot of scripture memory. And then there were a few poems that I remember from my own childhood. Actually, a lot of it didn't happen until my high school years, but I, one of my favorite early childhood memories, it wasn't even part of homeschool that my dad, for some reason, had the prologue to the Canterbury tales memorized in middle English.
And we would be driving home. It'd be driving down the road or whatever, doing whatever as a family and he'd start reciting it. So I don't ever remember memorizing it. I've just always known it. Oh, that's really cool. In middle English, in middle English. Oh, how much fun? How much fun is that? Okay, so now,
so you've always memorized Bible verses. This was something that you did as kids and everything and the random piece here or there. How did you get started doing this in your own homeschool on a grander scale? So from the beginning, you know, you're a new homeschool mom and you have all these exciting ideas and it's going to be perfect cause you haven't done it yet.
And I really wanted to incorporate Shakespeare and poetry memory with my children. And for the first few years, it just didn't seem to ever get done. And it was actually something that was kind of discouraging for me because I felt like I had this ideal, this thing I've really thought was important and I just couldn't make it happen. We would not miss our Bible time.
We wouldn't miss our scripture memory. You know, we wouldn't miss math or like our core subjects, but we never got to the stuff that I really loved and wanted to share with my kids. So about five years ago, maybe is when I first heard it sort of like morning time, morning basket idea. And it was like a light bulb went off and I thought that's how I can make this priority a reality.
And so that was when I started in finding a practical way to incorporate the memory work regularly in our family life. I love that. And that's one of the things I love so much about morning time is all of those things. And you said it so well that ideal that you really wanted to do it and it just never got done. And morning time is so perfect for memory work or anything else like that.
You take those things that you just want to do, whether it be singing hymns or learning folk songs, or looking at art or listening to great music, whatever it is. And you put it in that morning time and it just, by putting those things in there together, it just gives it more weight in your day. Exactly. Yeah. Yeah.
Love that. Love that. Okay. So you said about five years ago. So this would have been like when your 14 year old was about nine before your youngest was born. So, you know, we're looking at, at that point, I'm going to do math here. Nine, seven, four, and two. Sure. That sounds about right.
Okay. So, so what did it look like when you started, When we started, I literally just picked some of my own favorite poems and things I wanted us to memorize. So again, remember I still had really young kids, but I jumped right in, we did one of my favorite poems by John Dunn, the death be not proud poem. We did nothing.
Gold can stay. We did a little Shakespeare and of course we wouldn't get to each of those poems every day, but I just started with the stuff that I loved, the things that delighted me. And I think then that enthusiasm kind of caught on or risk contagious or maybe I just brainwashed the kids really well. There's value in that. Yeah. In some ways it's changed like the specifics of what we're memorizing have changed.
Some of course, like we change things up every year, every semester, but the basic framework has, has really always remained the same. Okay. Okay. So why in the world was this kind of thing important to you? So maybe not for the reasons why people might think I w I guess first, I would say why it wasn't important to me and that's that I don't see memory work learning these sort of beautiful poems,
or we also do historical speeches, original source documents, like excerpts in the Magna Carta, things like that. It was not for the sake of like crafting virtue in my children. It wasn't that I thought memory work was a magic formula. And if I could just get my kids to memorize a few, like really beautiful things that this was going to magically,
give them a good character. I'm going to rely on the Holy spirit for them. But At the same time, I do want them to believe what is true and to love what is good and to value and delight in the things that are beautiful. And this was one, one additional way I could share those kinds of things with them. And on the other hand,
so our kind of homeschool uses history or humanities sort of as a, one of the cores to our curriculum. And I don't see history or science or any of these subjects as things that exist in isolation or things that are just like lists of facts, like dates and dead people, it's ideas and it's really your lives. And I think that incorporating the poetry of those real men and women or their actual speeches helps my children connect to the ideas of the things we're learning and those people in those sort of movements throughout history in a way that just memorizing a list of facts,
but not do Okay. So everything you just said, there brought up a few questions that I want to ask. So do you memorize any facts at all? Are when we're talking about the Sloan family memory work, it's all scripture and poetry and source documents like speeches. Yeah. Not exclusively. I would say it's weighted probably 90% not factual, which I even hate saying like,
not factual, but maybe like, not just a list of facts, I guess. So yes. About 90% is poetry, speeches, scripture, things like that. But we do incorporate a few kind of good hooks for the kids. Like we've done a list of the English monarchs after the conquest, because that just can get really tricky when you're studying history or literature and there'll be an allusion to some King or event.
And you're like, I have no idea where that is in context, geography songs. I love finding songs for things we're big, silly song people. So things like that, that kind of, again, it's all things that give you a connection to the whole world and to people and sort of culture over time. So there are some facts. Yes.
Okay. Well, and that's interesting that you say that because, you know, it's, it always seems to be this, this I maybe dichotomy dichotomy is the word I'm looking for something. And people are like, well, do you memorize only poetry and scripture? And never like, you know, some people are really kind of snobby about this to be quite honest with you.
And I probably just alienated like half of my listenership where they're like, we're never, we're never going to memorize those facts and things because that's just useless to memorize facts out of context. Having said that I'm working on multiplication with a kid this year and having those skip counting songs is so helpful. And, Oh my goodness, every time my children look at a preposition and say,
it's an adjective. I'm like, man, if they would just remember that preposition song and you know, they would know it was a preposition. So there's, there's some usefulness. I mean, I think there's some inherent usefulness to having some of those bits and pieces. Definitely. I agree. So my husband is an engineer and so he's all about practical and facts and usefulness.
And I agree with you. Sometimes people can make that a dichotomy like it's either useful and practical or it's beautiful. Well, sometimes the practical is beautiful and vice versa. So I still remember a song I learned in my own homeschool years of the bones of the body. And it actually has quite useful as a mom, when I'm talking to doctors about,
you know, broken bones or cuts or injuries, I'm like, Oh yes, I know where the tip is. Yeah. Yeah. I like, I have one that I could remember from fourth grade, which, you know, I'm just going to tell you, it was a million years ago now and I can still name all the capitals of all the States and it's,
you know, it comes in handy sometimes. And it's, I don't know. And I don't, it's just interesting that you say like 90% is this beautiful stuff, this stuff full of ideas, this, these wonderful things that help my kids make connections with these people, but we're going to put aside the 10% and, and save that for the stuff,
you know, that is really useful. The skip counting the Kings of England, you know, those kinds of things that, that just come in handy sometimes. And so I don't think it has to be a total either or proposition. I'm going to tell you what I think, and you can tell me what you think in response to that. I think that families have to decide what the percentage is going to be like.
You could totally say, well, you know, in our family is important for us. We're going to do a 90 10, or maybe we're going to do a 40 50, but it's always a give and take with time. You know, that that's the limit right there. You only have a finite amount of time that you can spend memorizing things.
And so you have to make the decision, you know, where is the balance going to fall in Yeah. As homeschool moms, like whether it's memory work or anything. I think just accepting our finiteness, accepting those limitations is where we find a lot of joy and peace instead of trying to like, do all the things, like, just accept the limits of time and space and energy,
and then figure out what is best for your own family. Right. Right. Okay. So most of us know that there's great benefit to kids in learning memory work. It's going to help shape them as writers because of the sophisticated language patterns. And then we've already talked about some of the educational benefits, connecting them with ideas and with great people through history,
and then also learning some of those facts. But, you know, aside from those benefits, what do you hope your kids get out of this memory work? Are there some other motivation besides academic or educational benefits for you? Yes. I think two things immediately came to mind for this question. One of them is I do have a wide age range.
So a 10 year gap between my oldest and my youngest and our morning time memory work really gives us a shared culture, shared quotes inside jokes, even that come up, just sort of like, you know, you had a movie you watched as a family or something like that. So I really love seeing that, that shared experience across the whole family.
And I think something else that I have noticed, I have some children who are more or less able to articulate their emotions, you know, the kind of emotional intelligence kind of thing. And I think that a lot of these poems, especially have given them a way to have a vocabulary, to express really complicated thoughts and feelings. I even had one of my daughters,
her favorite poem is my shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson. And she told me one time we were at the playground and she just needed to take a break for a minute. She came over and sat down beside me. And she said sometimes when I just get a little overwhelmed, I like to recite my shadow and it just helps me calm down. Oh yeah. So Just recited it for me.
And then she went back to play. So it's sort of like a connection to their heart to, in ways that maybe as a child, they can't really articulate an emotion or a thought, but it gives them a way to express that. Oh, that is totally awesome. That she was able to make that connection and then use that as basically a tool in her emotional toolbox to kind of gain control of herself.
Yes, exactly. Oh, that's awesome. Okay. So what about you? Wow. What has memory work done for you as a mother? Because, okay. And we're going to get into kind of the, some of the nitty gritty later, but you're memorizing this all right. Along with them. I'm pretty sure that's how it's happening at my house,
right? Yes, definitely. So I guess number one, I would just say it's really fun. There's no way I would like let my kids do this memory work independently and then come and like recite it to me like a quiz or something, because it's just fun. I love it. It's delightful. And I think their enthusiasm feeds off of mine.
So that would be the first thing. I mean, that's not profound, but it's fun. And then secondly, of course I can't memorize as easily as these kids. Like they can just recite stuff, word for word, but even just those phrases, those bits of thought, they have the same effect in my heart that they're having in the kids.
So It's good stuff. Okay. So let's, let's talk for a little bit about the practical, cause I know people are gonna want to know what this looks looks like. And the first question they probably have is like, you're doing like thumbscrews and staff to get your kids to sit still and, and memorize all this stuff. Cause kids hate memory work,
it's drill and kill and it's drudgery. I'm sure that's what it looks like at your house, right? Oh yeah. We're just crying every day. Now We are, but not over. Yes. Yes. I should clarify. That is true. So One huge tip I have is don't try to do too much, especially when you have younger children.
I have always had either a toddler or now I guess my youngest is four, still very enthusiastic and we've always done morning time with little people. And if we tried to do too much in one day, I think it would be, it would make a soft grumpy. So we do a very small amount in any given day, over the course of a semester or a year,
we actually do quite a bit, but we're using the loop schedule. I think I probably first heard from you and that is hugely helpful. You can never get behind you just do the next thing. If somebody is having a bad day, I am not going to make someone, especially when you're talking about like tweens and teens who maybe are having a hard day.
If they're too grumpy, they don't need to be in there ruining the memory work for everybody. We're all allowed to have a hard day. So I think that has been the biggest thing. Just not trying to do too much at one time picking things that are fun, getting up and moving around while we're reciting, like charge the light brigade. Like you have to Gallop around the room when you recite that one,
including mom, like do silly voices, you know, those kinds of things just make it fun. Yeah. Yeah. And I, you know, I'm going to say like, even if there's no official movement for the poem, like there's a lot of movement going on. There's either, you know, there's usually some kind of drawing or like people like chow,
accouts, gymnastics or something, you know, people standing, standing on their heads, all of this kind of stuff. As long as they're not disturbing, me and their mouth is moving, I'm typically fine with it. Yeah. The four year old today had a big pile of cushions and he was running and jumping, calling it his cannon ball. But you know,
we could all keep reading and reciting. It was fine. Kept him occupied. Yeah. Okay. So you put just the memory work on a loop schedule. Is that what I hear you say? Yes. Yes. So, well, I mean, different years, we've done a few different things, but the memory work is always on a loop schedule because I always have more things I want us to,
to recite than I have time for in a day. So we actually just recite one scripture passage. I like to memorize an entire chapter at a time and one other, so like poem, speech, something like that. So we always do our Bible memory and then the other poetry work is on a loop. Okay. So I really want to wrap my head around how this looks and help some moms with it.
So let's say you're learning a new poem. Are you doing that when every single day until you get it or is it going in this loop and you're doing it like once every, how many days explain to me how that works. Yes. So we are always looping whether we know something by heart or not, I print out the memory work and each child has their own copy.
Even the pre readers have their own copy because they want to be like the big kids. And we just read it together. Literally we start at the beginning and we read it through together. And then the next day we read the next poem or speech. And the day after that we read the next one. So generally we're looping through about once a week.
And because we're able to do something consistently because I haven't like made a goal. That's impossible to keep or getting to it over and over and over again. Like we've already gotten to these, these poems several times this school year. Okay. So is, does your loop only contain first of all, bout how many poems does it contain? Cause you said you're getting to it about once a week.
So are you at any given time you have about five poems on your loop? Yes. So like this year we are studying modern history. So I kind of used that as a jumping off point, aside from our scripture memory we're doing in Flanders field, October by Robert Frost, the new Colossus by Emma Lazarus and an excerpt from a speech by Winston Churchill.
So that's actually only four things. I'm pretty sure I'm not forgetting anything. And that even gives us a day. Like if we miss a day or something, we can easily get to everything at least once a week. Okay. And so how long will you do that particular loop? Will it be like all semester, all year We will loop through those a few months through the year when we get to the holiday season,
we always take a break and do something holiday ish. So like advent and we'll totally change things up because maybe the kids don't get bored. I don't know. I've never asked them that I would get bored if we did the same thing all year. So I also put in a few kind of bonus months where we do Shakespeare instead of our regular poetry.
So I try to find a good balance between consistency and repetition while also changing it enough to keep us all interested. Okay. And then, so what about stuff you learned last March or last April? So where does that fit into the equation? Because if you don't practice it, eventually they're going to lose it, right? Yes. So different years have looked differently.
This year is a little bit harder because I have a couple of kids doing high school level work along with my preschooler. And there's just not enough time to incorporate as much review as we have in the past. So this year my plan is to sort of show up like at least once a month and just surprise the kids when it's morning time and be like,
okay, everybody, everybody, you know, share their favorite thing from past years memory work and we'll all recite it together. I have all of those old things in one binder. So we'll just do like a fun review day Just for fun. Okay. Okay. So you're reviewing stuff about once a month. You're you're picking four or five pieces and reviewing those old pieces.
Yes. Okay. And so I just really want to stress the fact that you said you're sitting there reading this all together and that's all you're doing. And so one of the ways that this, I really made this work in my house and people have heard me say it before, but I think it bears saying again was, it's not like I sit down and say,
okay, we're going to do my shadow. Now you guys start and expect. It's like, it's a quiz. Like I'm putting them on the spot. I mean, it's so much easier than that. We're just, and actually in my house, I'm the only one reading it. I'm the only one who actually has a printed copy. They listen until they learn it.
So we follow the IDW, the linguistic development through poetry, memorization, and we read, so we start with the first poem and we do right now. We do every poem every day. And one day, not too long ago, I got curious because we're like, I think we're on like poem 12 or 13 or 14 or something like that. But we've stuck extra pieces in there.
Like you I've put, we've got some Shakespeare that we're doing in there. And we were doing nothing. Gold can stay and I've got some additional pieces. So I was like, how long is this taking us? Like reciting through all of that? Like, you know, probably a good 14 pieces. It takes like 10 minutes tops to do all of it.
I was amazed at how little time it takes. So we do the, every poem every day. And then as we learn a new one, we learn little chunks of it at us as at a time. So I think the big thing is, is it's, it's something you're doing together. You're not quizzing your kids constantly, which I think kind of puts up this relationship.
That's not conducive to this being something that your kids are going to enjoy. So what about your scripture? Does it kind of work the same way as your poetry and other memory does Last year, we actually discovered a tremendous pack that has helped our scripture memory. So we do an entire chapter at a time and we're doing the whole chapter every day. I broke it up on the printout that I have for each child about every verse alternates,
light print, dark print, light print, dark print. So on the actually then read it responsively. So we take turns being the person who reads the light print. So we're just basically going back and forth reading the whole chapter or maybe one day the boys read the light print and the girls do the dark print or a to say, Hey, can I read,
you know, the light print today or whatever. And that has been amazing. It's really kept us focused throughout the entire chapter, like a longer chunk of memory work because you have to pay attention when it's your turn. And it's helped us memorize the Bible verses a lot faster. Okay. So I want to know what chapter are you working on right now?
We are doing Psalm 51 this fall, we've done Psalm one 39. We've done Hebrews 11, done some of the beatitudes. My kids would probably remember better than, than I do. Is it that The way it is like, yes, they like, we're sitting there reciting. I have the book in front of me. I'm looking up like trying not to look at the book and making all these mistakes.
And my daughter's given me, you know, she's the teenager. So I'm getting kind of like the rolled eyes, mom look saying the wrong words. Yeah. And she's totally got it. You know, it's funny. I had a conversation with a lady at one of the conventions this past spring, and she made the comment that she wondered if it would,
it's better for the kids to not have a copy of the memory work in front of them are not. And I said, well, I don't know. We've only ever done it where my kids have not had a copy of the memory work, where they couldn't see it. I'm the only person who has ever had a copy. And I'm the weakest memorizer,
but it doesn't sound like in your house where everybody does have a copy, you're still the weakest memorized Pretty much. I'm still the weakest link. It probably has more to do with AIDS that it has to do with whether or not you have a copy to depend on in front of you or not. I think that's it. Yeah. Yeah. I think so,
too. Okay. So how do you choose, well, you've, you've already mentioned that you started by choosing things that you like, but how, what other kind of criteria do you have for choosing memory work? So I often do start with what we're going to be studying in history for the year and either find poems about the time period or poems by poets from that time period,
find any, you know, documents that make sense. Like last year in New York and history, we did parts of the constitution, parts of the declaration of independence, parts of the Magna Carta, things like that. So like this year we're studying modern history, we're doing an excerpt from one of Winston Churchill's speeches. So that's really where I go first,
when I'm trying to think of, of limiting myself from all the wonderful things we could memorize. I, I really generally start with our history. Okay. And we just want to let everybody know. Amy has some fabulous free resources on her website@humilityanddoxology.com. It's a year of memory work. So talk to us a little bit about what that looks like. Cause you have some,
and you have some YouTube videos, right? Yeah. So every Friday at 10 on my Facebook page, I have a new week, a new video for the week and I have the printables on there, a humiliate doxology.com. And then of those videos are the same videos are also on YouTube. So every week there's a new installment and we've had poems speeches,
Bible verses, and you can just print them off and recite them with your family. Okay. So like a mom, if she wanted to, she could certainly watch the video. Cause you know, sometimes it's great. Like how do you pronounce this? Or, you know, it's lovely sometimes to hear things, especially things like Shakespeare, somebody reading it with a good inflection.
So it's like, Oh, it makes so much more sense to hear somebody read it, but they could also use these videos with their own kids if they wanted to. Couldn't Definitely, that was Michael both to sort of show moms. Here's how you can read something enthusiastically. And also like if a mom just wants that extra benefit, that extra video to just watch it with her kids and recited along with me,
that works too. I actually, a couple of the videos are one of my kids reciting one of the things that we've learned my daughter, in fact recites my shadow, one of the videos. Okay, fine. Yeah. I was going to ask you, is it just you or do your kids kind of get in on it as well? So do you ever let the kids pick memory work?
The short answer is no because I have five and we really don't need one more place for sibling conflict or arguing. So I pick the stuff that I love. And so far that hasn't been an issue now. I mean, if somebody came and was like, mom, I just really love this poem or whatever. I really want us to memorize it.
I would of course find a way to incorporate that in. But so far I just pick what I like. Okay. So now let's talk about, I really want to drive home the point, like everybody in your family is doing this together. So the four year old is memorizing the piece from the Magna Carta and Shakespeare and things like that. Has this been a problem for the young children?
No. So I'm not expecting the four-year-old to give the attention he's picking up, you know, what he, whatever he picks up, he picks up and we'll cycle through a lot of these, these, again in the future. But even like when I had a child who was a pre reader, but more of an age where I expected them to set and participate,
they were able to pick things up really easily. So, and I haven't found any of them may be more difficult or challenging themes to really be a problem. I mean, we started with death, be not proud when my kids were really little, I think children, they love, they love things that are really beautiful and thoughtful. And sometimes we maybe expect that,
Oh, well, they won't like that. Cause it's not like about a kid topic, but that hasn't been the experience with at least with my own children. Right. Right. And so do you ever go back, have you gone back and tried to, since everybody is together and you know, it's not like you're parsing out separate memory work and I know that there are some families that do that where,
you know, like the 11 year old has their own piece of memory work and the nine-year-old has their own piece of memory work. Quite frankly. I don't know how they do it because like, you know, they're, I don't have that brain space. I don't or the time or anything like that. It's like, Nope, we're just all going stay here and do this together.
Have you ever done like nursery rhymes or something so that your little kids would get that benefit? Well, we read nursery rhymes where I read picture books at other times with my, with my little ones that I haven't necessarily done that as part of our morning time with all of the ages. So I do sometimes incorporate more like nonsense Pelhams or what might be considered as the children's pillow.
My guests like, like my shadow, the kind of like, you know, CS Lewis talks about like a children's book, a good children's book is good for an adult. I think good poetry is good for all ages. So yeah. Yeah. We have one, I mean we have a few, so the way our program works is it does kind of start with some of those easier,
a little more fun poems to kind of hook those kids who are beginning reciters. And so, you know, we started with ooey, gooey and celery by Ogden Nash and you know, those kinds of poems. And so like the yak by Hilaire block is such a fun poem. It doesn't, you know, they're all fun, good poems that I don't mind memorizing as an adult because they are just so delightful in their own way.
Yeah. Like Jabberwocky that's one of our family's favorite. It's just a ridiculous, delightful cavorting poem that, that all of us can enjoy. Yeah. Yeah. So I think, I think you can kind of hit both ends of the spectrum. You can do the piece of the Magna Carta and then you can also, or death be not proud or Flanders field.
It's so funny hearing you talk about that because like we're doing like at least two of the poems that you memorize that you mentioned this year, we're doing as well this year. So it's so fun to, to hear you talk about that. Okay. So you have your list, you have your loop, you're working on these poems at, you know,
various points through most of the year. How well do you have to have them memorized before you move on to another selection? So there's sort of two parts to this. Some of my children, frankly, memorize like within a week or two, and it's really annoying, but that's not true for all of them. So I have to find that balance between not reciting it so often that the child who learned it really well is going to get bored while also giving some of the other children a chance to absorb absorb it.
So I try to really read the room. Some of that, I don't plan out ahead of time. If I notice that that people are getting kind of over it, then I'll just decide to put that one on pause or maybe just take it out of the loop for a while and come back to it another month. So that is not something I really planned for it.
It's more something I kind of feel out with the attitudes in my family now Going for what we would call word perfect. On these poems. Are you going for mostly there in the ideas or what's important? Yes. It's mostly there, there are some children who get it word perfect. There are others who don't, which is again, a reason I like having it printed out that doesn't kind of lead to that comparison where like,
there's the one kid who always seems to do it really well and corrects everybody else. So we just do it and we're up to the ideas and has kind of sink down into our, into our hearts. And I don't worry so much about WordPerfect right. And because we're not doing this to perform for anybody, then it it's okay. That it's not WordPerfect.
Exactly. Exactly. Yeah. Yeah. So what kind of challenges come up to doing this in your home? So the biggest Challenges are probably not related to the memory work. It's probably more related to the people in the living room than the actual memorization and then just being consistent. And you have to not only set the plan and the goal, but make sure that that it's really going to happen.
And so we've, we've found that by having an established time where we all, almost every day, it's the same time, same place. Everybody knows what it's going to look like. That has just taken out that decision fatigue. Like we don't have to question, Oh, well Lily, or will we not do memory work today? It's just part of our,
our ordinary life. Yeah. That's so big. I mean, with anything that has to do with homeschooling, when you can, when you're so consistent, you eliminate that question. Like they don't even ask, they know, like I just might as well show up. This is what's going to happen. There's no sense in even asking it's such a big thing for getting things Done.
Definitely. So how do you stay motivated when these kinds of challenges come up other than being consistent? Is there anything that motivates you A coffee coffee's real big. I always had my cup of coffee during wordings that time, that, and just finding things that we want to memorize. Like if, if it's a drudgery and it's, it's dull and lifeless,
then we aren't going to want to do it. And it's just going to take all of our self-control just to like get there. So I try to find things that we really enjoy and love memorizing, and then we want to do it. Have you ever had a mutiny, a memorization mutiny, Like on a day, someone can have a bad day.
And my kind of thought with that is I'm not going to fight with you like over a bad day. Cause sometimes I have a bad day. And so I'll generally just excuse that person for the day and just not make a big deal about it. So we haven't had like a longterm mutiny and I think that being gracious to our children, just like we would want someone,
including our children to be gracious to us with those hard days really goes a long way. So we have never had, I can't think of anything that I've wanted us to memorize that people hated. Yeah. So I just let people have bad days every once in a while, as long as it doesn't become a pattern. Yeah. And you know, I'm just going to say that I feel like for you and for me too,
that one of the things that makes this really work is our enthusiasm for it. This is something that we really feel is important and we're enthusiastic about and we enjoy doing. And so therefore it kind of spills over to our kids. So even if they're not like a hundred percent on board, they're still feeling that and coming along with it. Yeah. It's just not something that sometimes I'll have moms who say,
Oh, how do you make this work? It's like, it's not that hard, but I, I think it's not that hard because of how I feel about it, you know? Yeah. I've had people ask like, what should I pick for morning time? And I, I mean, I think there are things that are like objectively good to memorize.
Like I can get bossy if you want me to boss you around, I'll tell you what to memorize. But, but I think a good place to start is just, what's something that feels like you, the mom with excitement, even if that's just the first thing you do, like start with something that you just can't wait to share with your kids.
And that attitude is going to do more for setting up the success. If memory work long term, I think then like finding some like checklist of the beestings everyone should know. Yeah. Yeah. I think so too. I think so too, having said that if you are looking for ideas, as I know moms so often are looking for ideas, you know,
Amy's got her a year of more memory work on her blog. We've got some resources that we can link to on ours as well. So if you're like, what am I going to pick? I have no idea what to pick. I can't even remember what excites me, look down the list and see what you can come up with from there. And we'll give you a helpful hand getting started with some of those resources.
So Amy, thank you so much for joining me here today. Thank you so much for having me And there you have it. Now, if you would like to follow Amy's weekly morning time videos, be sure to check out Humility and doxology on Facebook, or if you're not on Facebook, can you prefer YouTube? You can find humility and doxology there as well.
And of course we have links to all of this for you on the show notes for this episode of the podcast, you can find all of that@pambarnhill.com forward slash Y M B 64. And we can get you hooked up with Amy over there and you can also leave us a comment and learn how to leave a rating or review our for the, your morning basket podcast on iTunes,
the ratings and reviews that you leave, help us get word out about the podcast to new listeners. And we really appreciate you taking the time to do that. Now I will be back again next week with the wonderful Cindy Rollins. This is our final kind of from the archives episode of the podcast and Cindy and I talked all about memory working memory as part of the grammar stage of a classical education,
except there's a bit of a twist on it. Instead of talking about grammar stages, memory, our memory work, we talk about it as remembrance. Now this concept comes from Stratford Caldicot book beauty in the word, which is a favorite of both mine and Cindy's. And Cindy has started talking about this often in a lot of her talks around the country all about morning time.
And so it's really fascinating. It's a great take. It's a wonderful conversation and I hope you come back and join us for that one next week until then keep seeking truth, Goodness and beauty in your homeschool day.
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- Thank youJanuary 17, 2023 by mrsbeliever from United States
I take my walks outside two times a day. I enjoy listening to all the knowledge you have on your podcast! I am a mom of 7 and have been homeschooling for 18 years! I’m not a novice but have loved all your advice and input! Thank you for everything you do! I love it!
- Always a favorite!October 11, 2022 by Lizzie O' from United States
Pam continues to do an amazing job with this podcast. She is a wonderful host, never hurried, asks great questions and really lets her guest share his/her experience fully. The variety of experience & wisdom here is fruit for the homeschooling community at large. I’ve been listening from day one and this podcast continues to be a top favorite. Thank you Pam!
- Morning time will change your lifeJuly 25, 2022 by RachBoz from United States
I’ve listened to YMB and Pam off and on for years, and she literally changed my life 7 years ago when I was just starting to homeschool. I’m so thankful for her ministry and encouragement to homeschool moms of all ages! I highly recommend doing morning time!
- Life AffirmingMay 2, 2022 by Logandinco66 from United States
This podcast is amazing and has helped me so much as recovering perfectionist homeschooling mama! Pam gives so much great insight into so many aspects of life and focusing on homeschooling.
- Life giving!November 1, 2021 by lapatita5 from United States
This podcast has been so great. It’s so practical and encouraging without being overly preachy or narrow. It gives ideas in a take-what-fits kind of way. I have used many of the recommended resources and ideas mentioned and been inspired by many others. Even the episodes that I found less relevant to me specifically, often had tidbits that I could use. Pam’s podcasts, books, and resources have been a godsend to me in my beginning years of homeschooling, helping me discover my own way to teach my kids in a way that prioritizes what is most important to us.
- You've made my school year!October 19, 2021 by Lizzie O' from United States
Pam, My children are almost 11 and 13 and I never sent this review in! I found it sitting here. This is testimony that I am still so blessed by this podcast years later. So here it is: I wrote you an email when I first felt it placed on my heart to homeschool my now 6
- Love the show!October 14, 2021 by Startup Travis from United States
Love your content and the guests you have visiting the show! I am a huge believer in using the morning hours well. Thank you for your direction and products!
- Enjoy the podcast & some thoughts…July 16, 2021 by rufocused from United States
I enjoy listening to tips on starting and using morning time as I am just starting it this year. We have kind of done it in the past, but when you only have one child you tend to just call it bible, story time, etc… but now that my second one is old enough to join we’re going to have more of a true morning time. I did notice Pam mentioned CNN ten in one episode. CNN can be pretty liberal biased in the main news, I’m not sure if they curb that in the “CNN ten”, but thought I would mention the Daily Wire, which is from a conservative viewpoint (and often covers indoctrination in public schools) and could be fun to compare and contrast with CNN. Our family also recently discovered Daily Citizen from Focus on the Family which has a very Christian perspective, which has been refreshing as news can be so depressing sometimes! Just thought I’d throw that out there… but really do appreciate the perspectives and insights of these women who have been doing this for awhile!
- Very helpful and pleasant to listen to.June 13, 2021 by Heather homeschooler from United States
I have listened to many episodes of this podcast and have highly recommended it to others. It has been a wonderful source of inspiration and encouragement. Pam has a great voice and presence and I love that she does not interrupt or talk over her guests. Thank you for your hard work!
- Always insightful!!June 9, 2021 by method_money from Canada
Pam always has great great guests who bring great insights and encouragement! I so appreciate her down to earth style and ability to ask great questions! Keep up the great work!!
- A wildly encouraging and equipping podcast for homeschool families.September 21, 2020 by Eryn Lynum from United States
As a homeshool mama of four (Ages 2-9), Pam's podcast has been an increidble encouragement to me. Not only that, but I have discovered so many helpful resources for focusing on what is lovely and true during our homeschool days. I love that it is not overwhelming in nature, but instead a gentle help for moving forward one day at a time in our homeschooling adventure.
- Best podcast for homeschooling/variety of topicsJuly 22, 2020 by Bethetal from United States
I love this podcast for so many reasons. (1) Pam is friendly, funny, humble and kind (2) She covers a multitude of topics (one at a time)- I have learned about nature notebooks, classical music study, narration, living books, Shakespeare and so much more. Whenever I have a question about a new (to me)HS term or practice, I come here to listen to Pam interview someone about it. Her interviewees have all been all-in on their respective areas of interest/expertise and I love the way she interviews/asks questions to really let the guests shine as they speak. I have changed the structure of my homeschool, found books for my kids and me, purchased materials, and found inspiration due to this podcast and I can’t recommend it enough! This podcast has shaped my homeschool in so many positive ways, most of which I probably can’t even articulate yet, as the changes have been done inside of me. Thanks, Pam!
- Great!!!March 31, 2020 by Eloblah from United States
I love the variety of things that are talked about on this show for homeschooling - things that I would never even think about including or doing - with easy ways to do them. Very much recommend this podcast
- New home schooling momFebruary 17, 2020 by A prit from United States
I am listening to the past episodes and loving it. This podcast has helped me develop my own homeschool. So many ideas!! I love morning time so much, we do a nightly family time so my husband and public school attending son. We do all the things instead of watching tv, playing ps4, and YouTube. My kids hang around me every evening asking if we are doing family time. I can tell they love it but don’t want to admit it.
- Morning Time Magic!February 11, 2020 by DrewSteadman from United States
I am so excited Pam is back to her morning time focus for 2020. Our homeschool has been shaped by the rich ideas and practical wisdom shared here.
- Yay! Morning time is back!January 1, 2020 by Homeschooler in Germany from United States
I was so happy and excited to learn that Pam is shifting her focus back to Morning Time for 2020! I’ve missed the morning time exclusive podcast and can’t wait to hear her back in my earbuds.
- So excited for 2020!December 12, 2019 by JCrutchf from United States
I absolutely LOVE this podcast and was so disappointed when I realized you were not actively producing it! I’m NOW relieved to know there is a whole year of episodes ahead! I’m beginning my homeschool journey with 4 little ones very close in age and my style falls somewhere in the Classical and Charlotte Mason. I found your podcast by chance via Instagram recommendation as I was doing research on “morning menus.” Your content is beautifully philosophical but at a level most parents will be able to grasp and appreciate. Filled with truth, beauty, and goodness! Your episodes fill me up and leave me feeling inspired personally and in regards to my children’s education. Everything is so good! Please don’t stop producing ever again! I’ll be grateful forever!
- So glad Your Morning is back!!!December 11, 2019 by alissajohn2020 from United States
So glad to have the morning basket podcast back! Thank you for bringing it back!!
- So good I ran out of gas.August 19, 2019 by JoanieHummel from United States
This podcast is awesome! It was recommended to me a few years ago by a very wise and experienced homeschool mom but I didn’t start listening until I saw it come up a few more times on Facebook, recommended in various groups (in particular, episode number 41). I wish I had picked it up years ago! So much great information, I’m learning so much! Be careful though, I was so interested listening to this podcast that I didn’t notice how low my gas tank was getting! I ran out of gas and as I write this review I’m stranded on the side of the road waiting for a friend to come rescue me! Happy listening!
- Knowledge GoldmineApril 5, 2019 by A.J. Edwards from United States
I’ve just been eating up every episode of this brilliant podcast over the past few months. The guests are stellar and Pam’s interview style is wonderful. She gets each guest to the meat and potatoes of their topic but it’s anything but a plain meal. This is a feast for the homeschool mom’s mind. I know I’ll be revisiting many of my favorite episodes again and again. Feeling so inspired by each guest!
- Myths and fairytale truths for homeschoolersMarch 22, 2019 by Allierhn from United States
Mind blown! I’m listening to the myth podcast and it’s absolutely perfect. It is answering so many questions I’ve struggled with my whole life. It helps me to view our curriculum and informs my teaching so much more.
- Super Helpful!December 4, 2018 by Jennlee C from United States
I can’t speak highly enough about this podcast. It has been a huge inspiration and a practical help to my homeschool! Thank you so much Pam Barnhill and everyone else who contributes to this. It has been an amazing blessing to me and my children… And possibly generations to come!
- Practical InspirationOctober 31, 2018 by Mamato3activeboys from Australia
Not only am I inspired by each episode of this podcast but I have actually put so many of the ideas into practice in our own morning time. Such a huge help as I seek to inspire my non-stop boys to truth, goodness and beauty. We are now memorising poetry as they jump on the trampoline and they love Shakespeare. That's a parenting win in my book!
- So many great ideas!October 9, 2018 by Parent 98765 from Malaysia
Thank you, Pam! I’m now bursting with inspiration and can’t wait to start our 2019 school year with a strong morning time routine.
- JoyAugust 29, 2018 by Ancon76 from United States
My heart is enriched and I can’t wait to learn more.
- Just what I was looking for!August 26, 2018 by Joey5176 from United States
I was looking for morning basket ideas—simple ones. These podcasts are giving me a picture of a good morning basket.
- Wow!! What amazing nuggets of knowledgeAugust 6, 2018 by HeRo84 from United States
This is truly life changing information for me as a homeschool mother. Thank you Pam for this amazing series.
- Love it!July 31, 2018 by s chenvmv from United States
I love all of Pam’s podcast but this one is prob my favorite. I love to listen to all her guest and see the different ways a morning time can be done
- ExcellentJune 27, 2018 by W.A., R.A. Hall from United States
Love this!
- Love, love, love this showApril 11, 2018 by SarahPMiller from United States
And I'm not even a homeschooling mother! But I've created a Morning Time for my children nonetheless, and I wouldn't have been inspired to do it -- nor could I have done it -- without this podcast. It's my favorite, and I get something out of every single episode.
- Wonderful resource!February 21, 2018 by honebubble from United States
This podcast has changed what I thought I could offer my children, my family and myself... I never would have believed that it would be possible to live a life as so many people actually do. Thank you for these tools and for what you do to help women, teachers, moms and all those on this path. You are amazing and I just can’t get enough, each episode teaches me so much!! Thank you again!
- A wonderful podcast!December 30, 2017 by NoName2018 from Canada
Great ideas and interesting guests - thanks Pam!!
- Insightful, Inspiring, Life-Giving PodcastNovember 4, 2017 by Mackenziechester from United States
I love this podcast. It has turned cleaning my kitchen into a really valuable part of my day. There are great tips here for gathering your family together and finding ways to share the things you are passionate about but can never quite find the time to fit in to a typical school day. So many ideas, so many varied topics. Great, inspiring guests. Life-changing podcast. Thanks so much for sharing these ideas!
- Such great choices of guestsNovember 3, 2017 by andinic from United Kingdom
This podcast is inspirational for your homeschool plans. Pam Barnhill has a delightful interviewing style and her guests share their insights and enthusiasm for their topics. Among my favourites are the episodes with Cindy Rollins, and Angelina Stanford. Don’t miss this encouraging podcast!
- GreatOctober 30, 2017 by WifeyKayla from United States
Some great interviews and very helpful for figuring out the flow of our mornings.
- Interesting ideasSeptember 24, 2017 by Lisa1932 from Canada
Just started this podcast. There are some very interesting ideas here on how to create quality time with your children, learning together and focusing on the things that are most important in life. Great hearing other moms' stories too.
- WARNING: This podcast will revolutionize your homeschool!August 29, 2017 by JoysTeacher from United States
Honestly, I started listening to this podcast because I had run out of other homeschool podcasts to listen. I really didn't think we needed a morning time! I homeschool one teen daughter and I thought the concept was too "baby" for us. WOW! I was completely wrong!! We needed a morning time, and it has changed the climate and the productivity of our homeschool. The habit was so important to us, we still do morning time when we are one break. (And neither of us is a "morning" person). Pam is an talented interviewer and will not waste your time (her time is precious, too)!
- Excellent!August 25, 2017 by Jodylleigh from United States
I'm really enjoying the ideas and tips Pam bring up in this podcast!
- Truly an inspiration!June 24, 2017 by Soaring2him from United States
I have started a morning basket just because of listening to this podcast. Pam sold me on the beauty of having a morning basket. I love all of the ideas I've gleaned from listening and I've implemented many of the ideas I have heard about through this podcast. It's really helped simplify some things in our homeschool day!
- Easy to listen too, incredibly practicalJune 4, 2017 by HarrisFamily0323 from United States
I really enjoy Your Morning Basket. Pam is a great host and I have taken away many practical ideas and had many unrealistic expectations corrected. I don't listen to all the episodes, but the ones I've thought were pertinent to my needs and have been able to apply something helpful to our homeschool. Thanks Pam!
- So helpful for this new homeschooling momMay 30, 2017 by klund08 from United States
I'm planning our first homeschool year and have really enjoyed this podcast! The interviews are great and I enjoy hearing from different homeschooling moms and how things work in their family. I'm excited to start Morning Time with my kids!
- You've made my school year!May 17, 2017 by Lizzie O' from United States
Pam, I wrote you an email when I first felt it placed on my heart to homeschool my now 6 & 8 year old children and you responded with a warm response. I then began to listen to every podcast you have (all 3!) and I have been so very inspired and encouraged in so many ways that it would take up too much time here to explain it all. This Morning Basket podcast is really a light for me and my children as not only are they the recipients of our mornings of gathering but so am I. I have learned so much from your guests (and you!) and have been able to take tips/ideas to add to what my own mornings look like. We truly have experienced Truth, Goodness and Beauty. God certainly has chosen you for this type of work and serving to others. Thank you for what you do!
- Thanks Pam!May 11, 2017 by BraveMomma from United States
So many great ideas every single week! Thanks!
- Truth, goodness, and beautyApril 14, 2017 by I'm Sonny from United States
Need I say more? I am deeply grateful for this profound and practical resource as we seek to surround our children in the truth, in goodness, and in things beautiful. I leave feeling encouraged, refreshed, determined and equipped.
- Very encouragingApril 13, 2017 by .....hk..... from United States
So helpful with recommendations for new things to do in morning time.
- A wonderful podcast full of useful tips!March 1, 2017 by Klarnold79 from United States
I have listened to almost every episode over the last few months on my morning runs and they have made me look forward to running! I have learned so much and have been inspired to add truth, goodness and beauty to our homeschool days. Thank you so much!!
- Wow! Talk about a solid series!February 23, 2017 by KastenbauerFamily from United States
Each episode is fabulous alone, and when you've been listening for a while, they all continue to be full of new information!
- Hope for the wearyFebruary 10, 2017 by MomToTheMasses from United States
I enjoy the variety of topics covered as well as Pam's cheerful personality. Thank you for being a cup of cold water for so many homeschool mamas.
- Great guests and hostJanuary 25, 2017 by My Life as a Rinnagade from United States
I love the people Pam has on and all the great morning time tips! Thanks for a wonderful show :).
- Mamma of FiveJanuary 24, 2017 by Mamma of Five from United States
The ideas, information and encouragment that Pam shares through the different guests and talking about the purpose and practice of Your Morning Basket has been a huge blessing to our family. Helped me to practically see how to bring truth, beauty, and goodness to our day.
- Great Homeschool ResourceJanuary 6, 2017 by KS Becky R from United States
I have just started listening and am gaining so much knowledge and practical advice. I can't wait to keep listening to more.
- Really great!October 21, 2016 by BeeGerW from United States
I love hearing all these ideas!
- californiafamilyOctober 10, 2016 by californiafamily from United States
I absolutely love Your Morning Basket podcasts. Pam interviews excellent people & so far, I've incorporated information from each podcast & have purchased many items that the interviewee's suggest. I think all families could benefit from this even if they don't homeschool! Thank you so much!
- Love Pam's podcastsSeptember 11, 2016 by Flourishing Mama from United States
There are many homeschool related podcasts that I enjoy, both for their content and the host. But I must say that Pam Barnhill's podcasts are top-notch for the following reasons: 1) the content is both relevant AND in-depth, 2) she NEVER interrupts the guest speakers with incessant (annoying) "uh huhs," "ummms," and such, 3) she provides multiple lists and links to supplemental materials that are really useful and interesting, and 4) she shares forms she's created even though she could make you pay for them. She has a gift for tapping in to the issues homeschool moms are REALLY dealing with. Thanks Pam. Keep up the good work!
- First Things FirstSeptember 9, 2016 by Lukenoah from United States
Every episode inspires me to start my day bringing my children the true the good and the beautiful through our family time.
- So helpful!September 7, 2016 by jofcrich from Australia
Every time I see that I have a new podcast from Pam Barnhill I know it's going to be good. Every one I have listened to (which is all of them!) have helped, inspired and encouraged me in some way or another. Pam is so good at summarising what her interviewee has just spoken about; a great knack which helps me distill the main ideas from all that good conversation. I really like that she always has links to whatever is discussed so that I can go back to it in the future and find what I need.
- Great resourceSeptember 5, 2016 by Ejs0928 from United States
Such a help for a new homeschooler. Highly recommend that you check it out if you'd like to learn more about starting your day with morning time.
- Amazing!September 2, 2016 by CDefnall from United States
This podcast is filled with great information to help you take full advantage of morning time or all together time in your homeschool. It also has great tips for extending your child education whether they are in public or private school as well. We all want to aid our kids in thier success and no matter if you are a homeschool parent or a public/private school teacher this podcast will enlighten you and provide valuable information you to to better help your students.
- Inspiring and enlighteningAugust 29, 2016 by spycej from United States
One of my favorite podcasts and I love and subscribe to all of Pam's podcasts. Thank you for the fabulous interviews.
- Must-Listen for Homeschooling MomsAugust 22, 2016 by DaffodilSocks from United States
This podcast has revolutionized how I homeschool my young children. A must-listen.
- One of my favoritesAugust 9, 2016 by FaithAZ from United States
Love Pam and all of her podcasts - can't wait for new episodes!
- Great IdeasJuly 20, 2016 by Hiphooray from United States
Just found this podcast and have been listening to them over the summer break. Pam is a great host and has fun guests and together they bring a lot of inspiration to the concept of morning time in homeschool. Thanks for the great resource!!
- TaraVosJuly 15, 2016 by TaraVos from United States
I would not be exaggerating if I said that I have learned so much from this practical, encouraging podcast that has changed our homeschool. Thank you Pam!
- Lots of useful informationJune 21, 2016 by Kristizy from United States
This podcast does a great job finding guests who give a ton of practical help to make morning time enjoyable and educational for everyone. I always feel reenergized after listening to any of Pam Barnhill's podcasts.
- <3!!!June 17, 2016 by Momo35556 from United States
I love this podcast! So helpful and encouraging.
- Lovely & InspiringJune 12, 2016 by kashley75 from United States
Thank you so much for this podcast!
- Such a wealth of information!June 8, 2016 by Jeaine6 from United States
There is so much wonderful information to be found in these podcasts. I can go about my daily chores and fill my homeschool mom cup simultaneously! They allow me to look at areas of our hs that need improvement or just need new life and feel encouraged while I'm listening. Thank you!!
- Encouraging & inspiringMay 24, 2016 by God's Ranch Hand from United States
So thankful for this podcast! I look forward to listening to each episode when it comes out.
- Homeschool Professional Development!May 24, 2016 by Jo.W.17 from Canada
As a new-ish homeschooling mama, I've found this podcast super encouraging and helpful. I would highly recommend it!
- So Helpful!May 18, 2016 by KGMom2Four from United States
I love the practical application that comes from this podcast! Thanks!
- A Lovely Show!May 17, 2016 by Webseitler from United States
This podcast has become my most favorite podcast on the subject of homeschooling. The topics discussed often go right to the heart of why I'm doing what I'm doing in our home--and God has really used the great advice shared in this show to help me be a more confident (and calmer!) teacher. Thank you, Pam, for creating such a great program! Already looking forward to next season.
- Awesome homeschooling resource!May 13, 2016 by Liddleladie81 from United States
This podcast has absolutely changed my perspective on homeschooling, in a great way! All of the guests have been wonderful and I leave each episode feeling both sad that it is already over, and encouraged and excited to figure out how I can use what I’ve learned! It has a great flow to it, very light but meaningful, informative, encouraging….I could go on and on! Absolutely LOVE this podcast! Thanks to all involved!
- Great hosts!April 22, 2016 by Homeschool_chat from United States
I always look forward to this podcast!
- Practical, helpful & concise tipsApril 21, 2016 by sproutnchic from United States
This podcast continues to help. I appreciate the Pam Barnhill's professional, organized, yet warm interviewing style of some well-picked guests.
- So refreshing and helpfulApril 2, 2016 by a. borealis from United States
I've really appreciated the depth and breadth of Pam's look into Morning Time and also the practical ideas and tools to make it work. It is so inspiring! It helps me think through my own Circle Time, realizing what an opporunity I have. There are so many great ideas for additions and tweaking my approach. I am loving it.
- Awesome!March 30, 2016 by Apples20091 from United States
This podcast has been so helpful and packed full of practical ideas to use with my children!! Some of the episodes I have listened to more than once!!
- Encouraging and Motivating!March 28, 2016 by Cat11223 from United States
Pam makes this morning time concept so attainable! She gives great ideas but simple ways to begin. These tips and recommendations reach far beyond just morning time and are benefiting our entire homeschool and family life!
- So many ideas!March 25, 2016 by Speterson781 from United States
This podcast is full of amazing ideas to grab my kids attention first thing in the morning. I love listening to Pam and her guests. Pam asks such great questions of her guests!
- A Favorite for Homeschool Encouragement!March 15, 2016 by JamesDWitmer from United States
I have been so encouraged by Pam's podcasts on Morning Time. She walks you through many of the wonderful activities that you can choose to include in your homeschooling, and also the details about how to do it! It has truly been a blessing. Thanks Pam!
- Perfect for the Homeschool MomMarch 14, 2016 by JoshJamie from United States
I just stumbled upon the "Your Morning Basket" podcast this weekend. I have already listened to 2 episodes, and they are wonderful - perfect for the homeschool mom. I am going to share this on my Periscope channel tomorrow. So great!! Jamie @OurLittleSchoolhouse.
- SongsofJubileeMarch 12, 2016 by SongsofJubilee from United States
I love the idea of a morning basket, and this podcast has helped me learn a lot about the different ways it can look! I love all the different subjects she discusses within it!
- Love it!March 8, 2016 by Ekrasovec7 from United States
This podcast has been such a blessing to me! Informational and insightful, it opens a window into how other families incorporate morning time into their day, as well as what they fill it with. This has completely changed the rhythm and content of our days for the better. Our whole family has fallen in love with morning time! Thank you!!
- So encouraging!March 4, 2016 by A Merry Heart from United States
I absolutely love this podcast! It has been so encouraging as I begin to implement Morning Time with my 5 girls. I have listened to them all & can't wait for more!
- This podcast has changed our homeschoolFebruary 29, 2016 by Momof4athome from United States
Pam has relieved some of the pressure to "get it all in". We now begin our day with the good true and beautiful in an almost effortless way and are all enjoying our time together before the "serious" subjects! Yay for the morning basket! Her guests are all lovely people you would want to have over for tea. I love this podcast.
- RefreshingFebruary 28, 2016 by Bless-Us-3 from Canada
I am loving this podcast. I just stumbled across it after hearing the recommendation over at Read Aloud Revival. I have been wanting to start 'Morning Time' for a year now so this is giving me direction and so many wonderful and helpful tips and suggestions. I love Pam's enthusiasm and personality.
- So helpful and inspiring!February 26, 2016 by KSR1 from United States
I was lucky enough to find YMB and Pam’s other podcast, Homeschool Snapshots, when I started my first year of homeschool this year. These 2 podcasts have been SO helpful to me with getting ideas for morning time and the rest of our homeschool day. I am very grateful for the excellent work Pam has done on both of these podcasts, and I hope they continue for many more years!
- InspiringFebruary 16, 2016 by Jaranda98 from United States
This podcast was inspiring and encouraging. It was a good blend of practical and theoretical and exactly what this tired homeschool mom needed to hear today to rejuvenate.
- An inspiring and encouraging podcastFebruary 14, 2016 by Kellibird1111 from United States
Very well done! I really enjoyed listening! Very practical and informative.
- Honey for the Homeschooling HeartFebruary 4, 2016 by SuperNOVAmom from United States
Pam lays out a feast of homeschooling topics that are relevant, helpful, and validating. The show is well organized and her interviews are clearly well thought out. In addition, Ms. Barnhill's relaxed and warm personality puts one at ease. It's like going to your favorite homeschool conference without leaving home!
- I love this podcast, great content!January 27, 2016 by Sara V from United States
These podcasts helped transform our homeschooling!
- Great parenting resourceJanuary 27, 2016 by sullivanjessicak from United States
I absolutely love this podcast. The show is well organized with great guests and helpful information.
- Thank you!January 26, 2016 by Nasiatel from United States
I'm so happy that I found your podcast, it has truly blessed our homeschool life!
- Wonderful help in my homeschoolJanuary 23, 2016 by BT and Jessica from United States
This is a great resource for all homeschoolers (and I would say any educator). I am challenged to make sure I am giving my children truth, beauty and virtue through the morning ritual of our morning time. I’ve learned of new books to share with my children, how to incorporate fine arts, good habits for our day… I could go on and on. Pam asks great questions and has wonderful guests.
- Top NotchJanuary 21, 2016 by Wvshaddox from United States
Excellent inspiration and tips for homeschoolers! I have learned so much from this podcast.
- Great Morning Time tips!January 7, 2016 by redhedcatie from United States
I have gotten SO many practical tips from this podcast! A must listen for homeschoolers!
- So Inspiring!November 22, 2015 by Frau Linds from United States
Another home-run podcast! Pam has a knack for inspiring great things in your homeschool! And the wonderful thing is she doesn't leave you with the "lofty ideal," but offers practical tips, aids, etc. all while encouraging you the whole way. Each interview is professionally done and such a joy to listen to! Thanks, Pam, for putting your heart into this! 🙂
- Wonderful!November 13, 2015 by Kellybireta from United States
Like having a cup of coffee with a friend. So helpful and informative.
- Excellent practical advise!November 9, 2015 by Foxycook from United States
Really enjoying this so far!
- Very encouraging!November 3, 2015 by WMGardener from United States
This was been a great podcast about Morning Time! How encouraging and informative to hear from other homeschool moms who are in the midst of it all!
- A great resource!November 1, 2015 by gejake from United States
Very inspiring and informative as I begin my homeschooling journey
- Love This PodcastOctober 30, 2015 by Earthmuffins from United States
I have finally had opportunity to listen to this podcast and regret not doing it sooner!!! Very informative and encouraging.
- Full of Goodness, Truth and BeautyOctober 30, 2015 by CJMance from United States
This is such an inspiration to get the beautiful ritual of morning time established. Thank you Pam!
- Great Podcast!October 29, 2015 by Greggtrisha from United States
I'm so excited about this podcast! My kids range from ages 4 - 11, and I've been needing to reduce my workload a bit. I'm using the fantastic things I'm learning here to combine all my kids together for read-alouds, Bible time, memorization, and some other fun things. Thanks so much, Pam! I love your other podcast as well!
- TreasureOctober 28, 2015 by TasmanianBec from Australia
I am so glad I found this podcast. Morning Basket / Circle Time / Morning Time - lots of interviews with families who make this part of their day a treasure for years to come. Just getting started homeschooling, and this is going to help shape our days. Thanks Pam.
- Jeannie in OhioOctober 24, 2015 by Jeannie in Ohio from United States
Loving learning about how so many families are using Morning Time in their homes!
- Wonderful ideas for creating your best morning time.October 21, 2015 by Flowerpetal2 from Australia
The ideas presented here are wonderful, it's great to hear how different families put together their morning time and how we can all make this a rich but simple time of beauty in our schooling days.
- Excellent HostOctober 16, 2015 by meghanlou from United States
Pam Barnhill is a truly excellent host and producer of podcasts. They are a pleasure to listen to, full of applicable and inspirational content. Unlike other podcasts in this genre, which are produced at home, Pam's podcasts never make me cringe because of awkward pauses or bad sound quality. Another of Pam's strengths is her ability to reflectively listen and summarize what she's heard from her guests in a way that wraps up the different segments of her interviews. Well done, Pam!
- Helpful and fun!October 16, 2015 by HornGal88 from United States
We’re just starting out with morning time and this podcast has been an invaluable source of inspiration and ideas. Keep up the good work!
- LOVE IT!October 13, 2015 by sassercj from United States
I’m always counting down the days until the next podcast…one of the best homeschooling podcasts out there!
- Among the Best I’ve HeardOctober 12, 2015 by More Like Mary from United States
I’m a bit of a podcast junkie so when I say that this is among the best, that’s really a compliment! Pam is an excellent interviewer. She re-states main ideas and summarizes information in a way that is helpful and not condescending. She asked poignant questions and stays on topic. Her guests are phenomenal and I’ve learned so much from each episode. So far, this podcast is “big picture” homeschooling talk with lots of tips for implementing lofty ideals into daily life. The perfect combination. I will be looking forward to many more of these!
- Gave me the tools I needed!October 10, 2015 by Momofmany:) from United States
This podcast is amazing. (I am spoiled now; the quality alone is superb!) I have listened to the four current episodes several times and now understand "morning time" in a way I never have before-- in particular, the schole part. I've longed for restful learning for ten years, and now I have tools to actually do it. Our whole family has benefitted so much. Thank you, Pam!!
- What’s importantOctober 9, 2015 by sncstraub from United States
Pam Barnhill’s new podcast on Morning Time is a great help to those of us who are homeschooling. I’ve only listened to the first episode so far, but it’s wonderfully encouraging to hear Cindy Rollins’ talking through her own experiences with Morning Time. I’m looking forward to listening to more episodes with others who are focusing their schools on the important things - the true, good, and beautiful.
- New listener and hooked!October 7, 2015 by Bytesofmemory from United States
I just started listening to the first podcast this morning and I am completely hooked on this podcast. I took the advice in the first podcast and just started with morning time. Instead of trying to “give birth to an adult” morning time I just started doing something and will add things in as this becomes a habit. Thanks for the wonderful tool!! I am now off to listen to episode 2!!
- Great!October 7, 2015 by Wvshaddox from United States
Encouragement for homeschool.
- A Gift to the Homeschool CommunityOctober 6, 2015 by HGPII from United States
This podcast is so well done, informative, and just what the homeschooling moms needs. It includes achievable, sound suggestions as well as an abundant dose of inspiration. I can’t wait to revamp my Morning Time and watch the results!
- Encouraging and informative!October 5, 2015 by sarahdempsen from United States
I have enjoyed Your Morning Basket from its first episode! I am a second generation homeschooler and just started our own family's homeschooling journey. Thanks to YMB, I implemented our "circle time" starting our second week of school and it has been such a blessing to me already even its very simple form of prayer, Psalm, Mother Goose, and then read-aloud time with my kindergartner. My 2 and 4 year olds also love it and it encourages me to include things in our day that might get left out, like nursery rhymes and simple children's songs! Thanks to Pam and YMB I feel like I am starting out with a great centering tool and routine that can be expanded and adapted as we grow!
- A great resource!October 4, 2015 by Bookgirl630 from United States
Your Morning Basket Podcast is a great resource for to help implement morning time into your homeschool day. I have enjoyed every episode so far.
- Thank you for wonderful bonus at the end!October 4, 2015 by Caj312 from United States
I just discovered this show and listened to the first 4 episodes. All were inspiring and I loved the useful links at the end of the show that help me improve my homeschool days! Well done and I look forward to the next episode.
- One of my VERY favoritesOctober 2, 2015 by Dianna @ The Kennedy Adventure from United States
I’m a bit of a podcast junkie, but YMB ranks among my very, very favorites. If you’re a homeschooling mother, or a mom who wants to connect with your children and show them truth, goodness and beauty, this is a must listen. Kudos, Pam, on a another amazing podcast series.
- TimelyOctober 1, 2015 by AggieRudy3 from United States
I’ve been trying to figure out morning time on my own, but Pam with this podcast has figuratively sat down with me and explained how to get things going. I’m so glad to have this resource at the beginning of my family's homeschool journey! The Basket Bonuses have also been so helpful.
- Thanks!October 1, 2015 by heyh2 from United States
Thanks for the new podcast. Loving it!
- Wonderful podcast with practical adviceOctober 1, 2015 by Victorzvaliant from United States
Thank you Pam for a great podcast, I am really enjoying it. I always come away inspired and with ideas I can use!
- Changed our Homeschool Morning routineSeptember 29, 2015 by HeatherinSC from United States
I have been listening to the Your Morning Basket podcasts recently and Pam's blog writings about creating morning time traditions with your children and I feel like it has made a huge positive difference in our homeschool. I love Pam's ideas for creating a restful learning environment and focusing on truth, goodness, and beauty as we begin our day together. I listen to these podcasts over and over and take notes!
- Excellent for homeschooling veterans and newbiesSeptember 24, 2015 by ASnow512 from United States
I'm very new to homeschooling and I'm still deciding if our family will pursue that path. This podcast has been such a wealth of information and a wonderful encouragement!
- Inspiring and UpliftingSeptember 22, 2015 by vabjohnson from United States
I was immediately inspired to create a more cohesive structure to our homeschool mornings. This podcast is full of helpful suggestions to make morning time meaninful for every type of homeschooling family. I've already implemented many of the wonderful suggestions and I can already see the benefits! An absoulte must for the homeschooling family!
- Bringing JoySeptember 22, 2015 by Louisiana Mommy T from United States
What an amazing podcast! This podcast has wonderful suggestions for bringing joy to (or back to) your homeschool. Everything is doable and enjoyable for the children and parents alike. Keep up the wonderful work!
- Great podcast!September 20, 2015 by corew50 from United States
This is our first year of homeschooling and I am really enjoying the concept of morning time. It is a sweet way to start our day together and this podcast has been amazing! Enjoyable, super practical, and filled with lots of creative ideas. Thanks for creating it.
- Inspiring, yet practicalSeptember 20, 2015 by mamato3cs from United States
Pam's Your Morning Basket podcast is one not to be missed! She and her guests inspire and spur me on to do great things in our homeschool, but it's not just adding more to my to-do list. There are practical suggestions for how to make morning time a refreshing and vital part of our day.
- Super Helpful & EncouragingSeptember 18, 2015 by Sanibel4ever from United States
I have been homeschooling for a many years. I like that I can count on Pam to make to make it worth my while (and my short amount of time!) for a listen. As always, practical info I can start using right away.
- Great PoscastSeptember 18, 2015 by Sarah B R from United States
Love Pam's interviews. I learn much from each poscast!
- A Joy to Listen to!September 17, 2015 by Cude 🙂 from United States
I am thoroughly enjoying this new podcast! I love to listen to people who encourage me on my homeschooling journey and I have added Your Morning Basket to my list.
- JUST what I needed!!!September 15, 2015 by Foodie in Training from United States
This is our first year homeschooling (Kinder) and this podcast has been INCREDIBLY helpful and a GREAT source of information!!! I cannot wait for more to come! <3 THANK YOU!!!!
- Practical - worth a listen!September 15, 2015 by Bloggerific! from United States
As a homeschooling mom of 6, my free time is limited. But I always come away with some practical, useful tips from Pam Barnhill. I love to listen if I’m alone in the car (rare these days!).
- Well done [FIRST NAME]September 14, 2015 by MattMcWilliams from United States
WOW… Your Morning Basket Podcast is flat out awesome. Good production quality. Easy to listen. Very impressed Pam. Keep bringing it.
- Inspiring and refreshing!September 12, 2015 by BugTurner from United States
What a great podcast. At first I was dubious whether you could have an entire podcast series about homeschooling using morning time, but now that I have listened to two of them, I see where Pam is going with this. It is affirming for me in what I am trying to do in our homeschool, and at the same time inspires me in ways to improve and refine our time together as a homeschooling family. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to simplify their homeschool efforts while simultaneously enriching their family's experience!
- BrilliantSeptember 12, 2015 by SHTirm from United Kingdom
I absolutely love it. Ever since I read about morning time, I wanted to know more. This podcast clearly explains what to do and how to do it. Episode with Cindy Rollins was brilliant. It gives you the overall idea of morning time practice, as she is doing it for 27 years. Andrew Pudewa in second episodes shared some insights about memorisation, which really makes so much sense. Pam asks clear questions and then repeats the main points in answer, which is very helpful, especially for new homeschooling mums. Overall this programme has everything one can ask for to get inspired and motivated. Thanks very much for putting so much effort. Well done.
- Excellent!September 5, 2015 by RC5476 from United States
I have really appreciated everything Pam Barnhill puts out. I have been introduced to so many great homeschoolers and their resources through The Homeschool Snapshots podcast, and I love that she is digging deeper into a great homeschooling practice on her new show, Morning Basket. It is definitely on my Must Listen list each week!
- Bring the best you to your homeschoolSeptember 4, 2015 by mystiewinckler from United States
Our Morning Time is the best part of our homeschool, and Pam’s podcast helps us learn how to make it even better and encourages us to pursue the true, good, and beautiful still more. So helpful!
- Inspiring!September 4, 2015 by Mamato8 from United States
I've only recently found out about Morning Baskets, after 14 years of homeschooling. What a find! And now to have these podcasts to help guide me along on my new journey! I've been sharing this like crazy, and my morning routine is fabulous now! Thank You!
- Education to EducateSeptember 3, 2015 by Isaac in St Louis from United States
I have gained so much from these first two early podcasts. I am grateful to you, Pam. Thank you for offering this as we strive to fulfill our sacred duty and privilege to give our children an education. Please continue. I see such great things coming from this. I rank this up their with Circe’s offerings.
- WonderfulSeptember 2, 2015 by BGTwinsMom from United States
When you're on the homeschool "circuit" it's easy to become one of Andrew Pudewa's groupies. So the excitement level for Pam's newest podcast doubled when I opened it on my iPhone and saw Andrew's name. I was remiss in not reviewing her first segment. Pam is a wonderful interviewer and has the ability to make conversation with her guests based on their answers and move seamlessly to her following questions. That is not easy to do. Highly recommend this to parents who Homeschool. Encouraging, motivating, and validating.
- So Inspiring!September 2, 2015 by bethenyn from United States
So inspiring! This podcast is what I needed to get our homeschool off to a great start this year. I will not miss an episode.
- Inspiring and thought provoking!September 2, 2015 by Pascualamb from United States
I've always thought memory work was so important in my 8 years as a teacher in a high school setting. I often required memorization and was criticized for this requirement. I recently decided to homeschool my children and this podcast was so affirming to me. I am glad to be able to follow my instincts as a teacher and give my kids what they deserve! Thank you for this wonderful podcast that inspired me to make memory work an important part of my homeschool.
- Affirming & helpfulAugust 28, 2015 by BOLDturquoise from United States
I knew I would enjoy this podcast but I didn't know that I would LOVE it! As our family has moved more and more towards a simplified homeschool method, this podcast is just the thing to reaffirm our choices and continuously inspire us with new ideas. I can't wait for each new episode!
- InspiringAugust 26, 2015 by Amongst Lovely Things from United States
This is just the kind of podcast I need to breathe life into my homeschool year. I’m so grateful for this new show, and Pam is a talented host. I won’t miss an episode!
- Delightful...a Must ListenAugust 22, 2015 by 1coltsfamily from United States
While I have heard Cindy Rollins speak about morning time before, I was pleasantly surprised to glean many new nuggets of wisdom that I can incorporate right away into our morning time. I always enjoy listening to Pam and find her questions spot on! The podcast is a wonderful balance of inspiration and practical tips. Can't wait for the next one!
- Your Morning BasketAugust 22, 2015 by inakamama from Australia
So lovely and inspiring! Looking forward to more...
- Helpful & inspiring!August 19, 2015 by starlingsfive from United States
A great resource for homeschool moms and so well put-together. Full of useful information, not fluff. Pam has a wonderful conversation style that keeps the show moving at a steady pace. I wish I didn't have to wait so long for the next one!