wildrootedfamily.com

Blog

  • Best Homeschool Read Aloud Books for the Whole Family (All Ages)

    Best Homeschool Read Aloud Books for the Whole Family (All Ages)

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If there’s one thing that anchors our homeschool days together, it’s the stack of books on our living room side table. Not workbooks. Not curriculum guides. Just good books — the kind that make my kindergartener climb into my lap and my fifth grader forget she was supposed to be “too old” for read alouds.

    I know how overwhelming it can be to choose read alouds when you’ve got kids at different stages. You want something that won’t bore your older child but won’t sail over your younger one’s head either. You want stories that matter, that spark conversations, that make everyone beg for “just one more chapter” even when the dog is whining to go out and the chickens are squawking for their evening scratch.

    After years of reading aloud in our little Northwest Florida home — on the couch, on the back porch watching summer storms roll in, curled up in sleeping bags during hurricane prep — I’ve figured out what works. And I want to share it with you.

    Why Read Alouds Are the Heart of Our Homeschool

    Charlotte Mason believed that children deserve living books — stories written by authors who love their subjects, not dumbed-down textbooks written by committee. I couldn’t agree more.

    Read alouds aren’t just about literacy (though they’re incredible for that). They’re about:

    • Shared family experiences that become touchstones for years
    • Rich vocabulary absorbed naturally through context
    • Attention span building in a world that constantly fragments focus
    • Connection — real, device-free, eyes-on-each-other connection

    In a Charlotte Mason approach, read alouds do heavy lifting across subjects. We’ve learned history, geography, nature study, and character lessons all through beautiful stories. And honestly? It’s my favorite part of our school day.

    What Makes a Great All-Ages Read Aloud

    Not every good book makes a good read aloud for mixed ages. Here’s what I look for:

    Strong, Engaging Plots

    Younger kids need things to happen. If a book is too introspective or slow-building, you’ll lose them. Look for adventure, humor, or genuine tension.

    Layered Themes

    The best family read alouds work on multiple levels. Your five-year-old laughs at the funny parts while your ten-year-old catches deeper themes about courage or integrity.

    Beautiful Language

    This is where Charlotte Mason’s influence shows up strong. We want language worth savoring — prose that builds vocabulary and ear for good writing naturally.

    Characters Worth Knowing

    Kids remember characters like friends. The best read alouds introduce people (or animals, or hobbits) your family will reference for years.

    Our Favorite Homeschool Read Alouds for All Ages

    These are books we’ve actually read — many of them multiple times. Some are classics. Some surprised me. All of them held everyone’s attention.

    Adventure and Imagination

    The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis — If you haven’t read these aloud, start here. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe works for the youngest listeners, and the series grows with them.

    My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George — A boy survives alone in the wilderness. My nature-loving kids were absolutely riveted, and it sparked so many questions about foraging, wildlife, and self-reliance.

    The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson — This one’s become a modern classic in homeschool circles for good reason. Funny, adventurous, and genuinely moving.

    History Come Alive

    Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder — We read these during our American history studies, and they transformed dates and facts into real, lived experience.

    Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes — Revolutionary War history that reads like an adventure novel. My older elementary kids were captivated.

    The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli — Medieval England, a boy overcoming hardship, beautiful prose. This one surprised me with how engaged everyone stayed.

    Character and Heart

    Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White — Yes, you probably read it as a kid. Read it again. The prose is stunning, and it opens incredible conversations about friendship, loss, and the cycles of life — especially relevant when you’re raising backyard chickens and your kids witness those cycles firsthand.

    The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett — Slower paced, but the transformation of both garden and children is worth every chapter. Perfect for spring reading.

    Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Fisher — A Charlotte Mason favorite for good reason. A sheltered girl discovers capability and confidence. So much to discuss about childhood, independence, and education itself.

    Nature and Wonder

    Rascal by Sterling North — A boy raises a raccoon in early 1900s Wisconsin. This one pairs beautifully with nature study.

    Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat — Hilarious and warm. My kids still talk about these owls.

    For deepening nature study alongside your read alouds, we keep a nature journal on hand to sketch anything that captures our imagination from the stories — plants, animals, weather scenes. When bird characters show up, we pull out our Sibley Guide to look them up together.

    Making Read Aloud Time Work with Mixed Ages

    Here’s what I’ve learned about keeping everyone engaged:

    Give hands something to do. My younger one listens better while drawing or playing with building blocks. My older one sometimes sketches in her nature journal with her Faber-Castell watercolor pencils. Busy hands often mean better listening ears.

    Read at natural transition times. We read after lunch, when energy is lower and everyone needs to settle. Some families do it right before bed. Find your family’s rhythm.

    Don’t be afraid to stop and discuss. Charlotte Mason advocated for narration — having children tell back what they heard. We pause for questions, predictions, and connections. “What would you have done?” is one of our favorites.

    It’s okay to skip or skim. Some older books have slow sections or dated language. I quietly paraphrase when needed. The point is the story and the togetherness, not rigid adherence to every word.

    Building Your Read Aloud Collection

    I’m always hunting for our next great read aloud. Rainbow Resource has become my go-to for finding living books that fit our Charlotte Mason approach — their catalog is a treasure trove, and they often have reviews from other homeschool families.

    For curated, ready-to-go book selections, Timberdoodle does a beautiful job of putting together packages that include quality read alouds alongside hands-on learning materials.

    Creating a Culture of Story in Your Home

    Here’s what I want you to know: you don’t need to do read alouds perfectly. Some days we read for an hour. Some days we barely get through a chapter before someone needs a snack or the dog starts barking at the mail carrier.

    The magic isn’t in perfection. It’s in consistency. It’s in showing up, book in hand, day after day. It’s in creating a home where story matters, where screens aren’t the default, where kids know that the best adventures often happen in the pages of a well-worn book.

    This is part of what I mean when I talk about raising kids the “1990s way.” We didn’t have tablets. We had library cards and read aloud time and the delicious anticipation of finding out what happens next. Our kids deserve that same experience — maybe even need it more than we did.

    So pull up a chair. Grab a book. Call everyone in. The chickens can wait five more minutes for their treats. This part — this gathering together, this shared story — this is the good stuff.

    What’s on your family’s read aloud list right now? I’d love to hear your favorites.

  • How to Teach Kids About Composting: A Simple Worm Bin Setup for Curious Families

    How to Teach Kids About Composting: A Simple Worm Bin Setup for Curious Families

    If you’ve ever watched your kids poke at a worm on the sidewalk after a Florida rainstorm, you already know—there’s something magnetic about these wiggly little creatures. And here’s the beautiful thing: that natural curiosity can turn into one of the best hands-on science lessons your homeschool will ever see.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Our family started vermicomposting (that’s the fancy word for worm composting) about two years ago, and honestly? It’s become one of those things the kids just get now. They understand where food scraps go, what decomposition looks like, and why healthy soil matters. And they learned it all by doing—not from a worksheet.

    If you’ve been wanting to teach your kids about composting but aren’t sure where to start, a worm bin is the perfect entry point. It’s small, manageable, and endlessly fascinating for elementary-age kids.

    Why a Worm Bin is Perfect for Teaching Kids About Composting

    Here in Northwest Florida, we’re blessed with a long growing season and plenty of opportunities to dig in the dirt. But even if you’re not a gardener (yet), a worm bin makes sense for families who want to:

    • Reduce kitchen waste without maintaining a big outdoor compost pile
    • Create rich fertilizer for houseplants, garden beds, or even your chicken run
    • Give kids a living science lesson they can observe week after week

    This is Charlotte Mason nature study at its best, y’all. We’re not reading about decomposition from a textbook—we’re watching it happen in our own home.

    My kids have sketched worms in their nature journals, counted cocoons, and made predictions about which food scraps would disappear fastest. (Spoiler: banana peels win every time.)

    What You’ll Need to Set Up a Simple Worm Bin

    The good news? You don’t need anything fancy to get started. Here’s our basic setup:

    The Bin

    A simple 10-gallon plastic storage tote works great. Drill small holes in the lid and upper sides for airflow, and a few in the bottom for drainage. Set it on a tray or inside a slightly larger bin to catch any liquid (that’s “worm tea”—liquid gold for plants).

    The Bedding

    Shredded newspaper, cardboard, or coconut coir makes excellent bedding. You want it damp like a wrung-out sponge—not soggy. We save our egg cartons and Amazon boxes for this.

    The Worms

    You’ll need red wigglers (Eisenia fetida), not the earthworms from your yard. You can order them online or sometimes find them locally at bait shops. Start with about a pound—roughly 1,000 worms.

    The Food

    Fruit and veggie scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, and tea bags are all fair game. Avoid citrus, onions, meat, dairy, and anything oily. We keep a small countertop bin and let the kids take turns being “worm feeders” each week.

    Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Worm Bin Together

    This is the fun part—and it’s completely kid-friendly.

    Step 1: Prepare the Bedding

    Let the kids shred newspaper or tear up cardboard into strips. This is great for little hands and teaches them that “trash” can become something useful. Fluff it up and mist it until it’s evenly damp.

    Step 2: Add the Worms

    Dump your red wigglers right on top of the bedding. They’ll burrow down to escape the light. Let the kids use a pocket microscope to look closely at the worms before they disappear—so cool.

    Step 3: Add a Little Food

    Start small. Bury a handful of food scraps under the bedding in one corner of the bin. The worms will find it. Overfeeding is the number one mistake new worm bin owners make, so resist the urge to dump your whole compost bucket in there.

    Step 4: Find the Right Spot

    Worms like it dark and temperate—between 55-77°F is ideal. In Florida, that usually means keeping the bin indoors or in a shaded garage. Ours lives in the laundry room, and no, it doesn’t smell. A healthy worm bin just smells like earth.

    Making It a Learning Experience

    Here’s where homeschool magic happens. A worm bin isn’t just a chore—it’s a living laboratory.

    Nature Journaling

    Once a week, we pull back the bedding and observe. The kids sketch what they see—worms, cocoons, decomposing food—and write a few sentences about changes. Over time, their journals become a beautiful record of the composting process.

    If your kids love art, a set of quality watercolor pencils makes nature journaling even more inviting.

    Science Connections

    We talk about the nitrogen cycle, decomposers, and how healthy soil grows healthy food. It ties right into our backyard chickens, too—because guess where a lot of that finished compost ends up? In their run, helping break down bedding and control odor. (If you’re curious about keeping chickens, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is a great resource, and there’s a kid-friendly version too.)

    Math Moments

    How much food did we add this week? How many days until it’s gone? How many worms do we think we have now? Even simple estimation and measurement practice counts—especially when it’s hands-on. That’s the same philosophy behind programs like Math-U-See, which we love for its manipulative-based approach.

    Tips for Keeping Your Worm Bin Thriving

    Once your bin is established, it’s pretty low-maintenance. Here are a few things we’ve learned along the way:

    • Chop scraps small. The smaller the pieces, the faster the worms can process them.
    • Bury food under bedding. This prevents fruit flies and keeps things tidy.
    • Add bedding regularly. As food breaks down, you’ll need to replenish the brown material.
    • Don’t panic about moisture. If it gets too wet, add dry bedding. Too dry? Mist lightly.
    • Harvest castings every few months. Push everything to one side, add fresh bedding and food to the empty side, and the worms will migrate over. Then you can scoop out the finished compost.

    We sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the outside of the bin occasionally—it helps deter any unwanted pests without harming the worms.

    Why This Matters More Than You Think

    In a world full of screens and shortcuts, there’s something deeply grounding about teaching kids to participate in natural cycles. Composting with worms shows them that nothing is truly “waste”—that banana peel becomes soil, that soil grows food, and that we’re all part of something bigger.

    It’s the kind of 1990s-childhood experience I want for my kids. Less consuming, more creating. Less passivity, more participation.

    And honestly? Watching a five-year-old gently pick up a worm and say, “Thanks for helping, little guy”—that’s worth more than any curriculum could teach.

    Ready to Start Your Own Worm Bin?

    If you’ve been on the fence, just go for it. Grab a bin, order some worms, and let your kids lead the way. They’ll surprise you with their observations, their questions, and their willingness to get their hands dirty.

    That’s the whole point, right? Raising kids who aren’t afraid of a little dirt—or a lot of worms.

    Happy composting, friend. 🌿

  • Non-Toxic Lice Treatment for Kids: Natural Options That Actually Work

    Non-Toxic Lice Treatment for Kids: Natural Options That Actually Work

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    I’m going to be real with you: when I first spotted those tiny bugs in my daughter’s hair after a homeschool co-op day, I panicked. My mind immediately went to those chemical-laden treatments I remembered from my own childhood in the 90s — the ones that made your scalp burn and your eyes water. But here’s the thing: we’ve worked so hard to create a non-toxic home, and I wasn’t about to douse my kid’s head in pesticides if I didn’t have to.

    Spoiler alert: I didn’t have to. And neither do you.

    Why I Avoid Conventional Lice Treatments

    Most over-the-counter lice treatments contain pyrethroids or pyrethrins — synthetic insecticides that are designed to attack the nervous system of lice. The problem? These chemicals can also be absorbed through your child’s scalp, and many parents (myself included) aren’t comfortable with that trade-off, especially when there are effective alternatives.

    Beyond the toxicity concerns, there’s another issue: lice are becoming increasingly resistant to these chemical treatments. So you might be exposing your child to harsh ingredients that don’t even work anymore. No thank you.

    Natural Lice Treatment Options That Actually Work

    After going through this twice now (yes, twice — the joys of having social kids), I’ve learned what actually works without compromising on our family’s commitment to cleaner living.

    The Wet Combing Method

    This is old-school, and it’s still the gold standard. Our great-grandmothers did this, and honestly? It works better than most products on the market.

    Here’s what you need:

    • A good metal lice comb (the plastic ones don’t cut it)
    • Conditioner or olive oil to saturate the hair
    • A white towel or paper towels
    • Good lighting and patience
    • A movie or audiobook for your kiddo

    Saturate the hair completely with conditioner or oil, then comb through tiny sections from root to tip. Wipe the comb on the white towel after each pass so you can see what you’re removing. The oil immobilizes the lice, and the comb physically removes them along with the nits (eggs).

    We do this every three days for two weeks to catch any newly hatched lice before they can lay more eggs. Is it tedious? Yes. Does it work? Absolutely.

    Suffocation Methods: Coconut Oil and Olive Oil

    Both coconut oil and olive oil can suffocate adult lice when left on the hair for several hours or overnight. I prefer coconut oil because it has some natural antimicrobial properties and smells nicer, but olive oil works just as well.

    Coat the hair thoroughly, cover with a shower cap, and leave on for at least eight hours (we usually do overnight). In the morning, comb through with a lice comb before washing. You’ll still need to repeat this process and maintain diligent combing, but it’s a gentle, effective approach.

    Essential Oil Sprays

    Some essential oils have shown promise in repelling and even killing lice. Tea tree oil is the most studied, but rosemary, lavender, and peppermint are also commonly used. I make a simple spray with water, a little witch hazel, and a few drops of tea tree and lavender oil.

    A word of caution: essential oils are potent, and not all of them are safe for young children. Always dilute properly and do a patch test first. I don’t use essential oils on my youngest without being very careful about which ones and how much.

    Diatomaceous Earth

    Now, this one might surprise you. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is something I keep on hand for our chicken coop — it helps control mites and other pests naturally. Some families use it for lice treatment as well, though it’s a bit messier and needs to be used carefully to avoid inhalation.

    If you go this route, lightly dust it onto the hair, leave for a few hours, then wash and comb thoroughly. The microscopic particles damage the lice’s exoskeleton, causing them to dehydrate. It’s the same principle we use in the coop’s dust bath area.

    What About Prevention?

    Once you’ve dealt with an infestation, you’ll want to do everything possible to prevent another one. Here’s what’s worked for our family:

    Regular Checks

    I do a quick scalp check on the kids every week or so, especially after group activities. Good lighting and a lice comb make this easy. We’ve turned it into part of our routine — hair check, then story time.

    Tea Tree Shampoo and Spray

    We use a tea tree-infused shampoo regularly and spray a diluted tea tree solution on their hair before co-op days or playdates. There’s no guarantee this prevents lice, but some research suggests lice find the scent unpleasant.

    Teaching Good Habits

    This is the 90s kid in me talking: we teach our kids not to share hats, brushes, or hair accessories with friends. It’s not about being unfriendly — it’s just practical. Lice spread through head-to-head contact and shared items, so a little awareness goes a long way.

    Cleaning Your Home Without Toxic Sprays

    You don’t need to bomb your house with chemicals. Lice can’t survive long without a human host, so your cleaning efforts can be pretty straightforward:

    • Wash bedding and recently worn clothing in hot water
    • Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes
    • Vacuum upholstered furniture and car seats
    • Seal stuffed animals and pillows in plastic bags for 48 hours

    For general cleaning, I love using products from Grove Collaborative — they have great non-toxic options that actually work without leaving your home smelling like a chemical plant.

    Speaking of non-toxic pest control, we use Wondercide around our home and yard for other pest issues. It’s safe for use around kids and our labradoodle, which is a huge win.

    A Note About Lice and Chickens

    I get this question a lot since we have backyard chickens: can you get lice from your flock? The short answer is no — chicken lice are species-specific and don’t infest humans. So while you might be dealing with lice issues in the coop (another post for another day), it’s completely separate from the head lice your kids might pick up.

    If you’re curious about chicken health and pest management, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is an excellent resource that covers it all.

    Final Thoughts from a Tired-But-Wiser Mama

    Lice are annoying, but they’re not dangerous, and they’re definitely not a reflection of your cleanliness or parenting. They’re just part of having kids who play together, learn together, and live in community — which is a beautiful thing, even when it comes with tiny uninvited guests.

    The first time we dealt with this, I was embarrassed and overwhelmed. Now? I know it’s manageable, and I know we can handle it without reaching for harsh chemicals. That feels like a small victory in this journey of raising kids with more intention and less toxicity.

    So take a deep breath, grab your lice comb, and know that you’ve got this. Your grandma handled this without a trip to the drugstore, and so can you.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some tiny braids to redo and a chicken coop to check on before the Florida afternoon storms roll in.

  • Backyard Chickens Roost Bar Height & Spacing Guide: What Actually Works

    Backyard Chickens Roost Bar Height & Spacing Guide: What Actually Works

    If you’ve ever walked out to the coop at dusk and found half your flock crammed onto one roost bar while another sits completely empty, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, standing in the Florida humidity with a flashlight, wondering why my hens have such strong opinions about where they sleep. Turns out, roost bar height and spacing actually matter quite a bit — and getting it right makes for happier chickens and easier coop management.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    When we first set up our coop a few years back, I’ll admit I just kind of winged it (pun intended). I figured chickens would figure it out. And they did — but they also let me know, through their behavior, that my setup wasn’t ideal. A little research and some adjustments later, and we have a much more peaceful evening routine. Here’s what I’ve learned about getting roost bars right for a backyard flock.

    Why Roost Bar Setup Matters More Than You Think

    Chickens are hardwired to roost up high at night. In the wild, this keeps them safe from ground predators. Even in your secure backyard coop, that instinct is strong. When roost bars are set up poorly, you’ll see problems: pecking order drama gets worse, some birds end up sleeping in nest boxes (hello, poopy eggs), and stressed chickens don’t lay as well.

    Getting the height and spacing right isn’t just about chicken comfort — though that matters — it’s about setting up your coop for success. And honestly? It’s one of those things that once you understand the “why” behind it, the “how” becomes pretty simple.

    The Right Roost Bar Height for Backyard Chickens

    Standard Height Guidelines

    For most backyard flocks with standard-size breeds, roost bars should be positioned 2 to 4 feet off the ground. This gives chickens that elevated feeling they crave without being so high that jumping down causes leg injuries.

    Here in Florida, I keep ours at about 3 feet, which works well for our mixed flock of Rhode Island Reds and Buff Orpingtons. They can easily hop up, and there’s plenty of airflow underneath — important when summer nights stay warm and humid.

    Adjustments for Different Breeds

    If you’re raising heavier breeds like Brahmas or Orpingtons, stick to the lower end of that range (around 2 feet). These bigger girls are more prone to leg and foot injuries from jumping down. Lighter, more agile breeds like Leghorns can handle higher roosts without issue.

    For bantams, you can go a bit higher if you’d like — they’re excellent flyers and will happily perch at 4 feet or more. Just make sure they can actually reach it!

    Height Relative to Nest Boxes

    Here’s a tip that saved me a lot of frustration: roost bars should always be higher than your nest boxes. Chickens naturally want to sleep at the highest point available. If your nest boxes are higher than your roosts, guess where your hens will sleep? And guess how clean those eggs will be in the morning?

    I learned this the hard way during our first year. Once I raised the roost bars above the nest boxes, the problem solved itself within a few nights.

    Roost Bar Spacing: How Much Room Does Each Chicken Need?

    Spacing Per Bird

    Each chicken needs about 8 to 10 inches of roost bar space. This gives them enough room to settle in comfortably without being crammed against their neighbor. For larger breeds, bump that up to 10-12 inches per bird.

    Do the math for your flock size: six standard hens need at least 4-5 feet of total roost space. You can provide this on one long bar or multiple shorter bars.

    Spacing Between Multiple Roost Bars

    If you’re using a ladder-style setup with multiple bars at different heights, space them 12 to 18 inches apart horizontally and 12 to 15 inches apart vertically. This prevents the classic problem of chickens on upper roosts pooping on chickens below (not a pleasant situation for anyone involved).

    We use a simple two-bar setup in our coop, staggered so there’s no overlap. It took maybe an hour to adjust, and it made a noticeable difference in flock harmony.

    Best Materials and Shape for Roost Bars

    Flat vs. Round

    Forget the old advice about using round dowels or branches. For backyard chickens, flat or slightly rounded 2×4 lumber (with the wide side up) is actually better. It allows chickens to rest flat-footed, which keeps their feet warmer in cooler weather and is easier on their joints.

    The wide surface also lets them cover their feet with their feathers when they settle down — important even here in Northwest Florida when we get those occasional cold snaps in January.

    What to Avoid

    Stay away from metal bars (too cold in winter, too hot in summer), plastic PVC (too slippery), and anything with rough or splintery surfaces. Simple untreated lumber works great and is easy to replace if it gets worn.

    I give our roost bars a good scrape and inspection every few months when I do a deep coop clean. Speaking of which, I always dust the coop with food-grade diatomaceous earth during these cleanings to help with mites and other pests.

    Our Florida Coop Setup

    Since we’re dealing with Florida’s heat and humidity most of the year, ventilation is a top priority in our coop design. Our roosts are positioned to take advantage of cross-breezes, and we keep everything as open as possible while still being predator-proof.

    We also installed an automatic coop door last year, which has been a game-changer for our homeschool mornings. The chickens let themselves out at dawn while we’re still doing morning basket time, and the door closes at dusk after everyone’s on the roost. One less thing to remember during busy days.

    For water, we switched to a nipple-style chicken waterer that keeps the water cleaner in our sandy, dusty yard. The chickens figured it out within a day or two.

    Making Chickens Part of Your Homeschool

    One thing I love about keeping backyard chickens is how naturally they fit into our Charlotte Mason-style homeschool. The kids have learned so much just by observing — chicken behavior, the pecking order, how they communicate, their egg-laying patterns. It’s real-world nature study happening right in our backyard.

    If you’re looking to go deeper with your kids, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is an excellent comprehensive resource. For younger kids, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens is perfect — it’s written at a level where elementary-age children can actually read and understand it themselves.

    We keep a nature journal where the kids sketch and record observations, including plenty of chicken-related entries. A simple Strathmore sketchbook works beautifully for this kind of ongoing nature documentation.

    Quick Reference: Roost Bar Cheat Sheet

    • Height: 2-4 feet (lower for heavy breeds)
    • Per-bird spacing: 8-12 inches depending on breed size
    • Bar spacing (horizontal): 12-18 inches
    • Bar spacing (vertical): 12-15 inches
    • Material: 2×4 lumber, wide side up
    • Golden rule: Roosts higher than nest boxes, always

    Final Thoughts

    Honestly, getting your roost bar setup right is one of those small things that makes a big difference in backyard chicken keeping. It’s not complicated once you understand what your birds need, and the payoff is a calmer flock, cleaner eggs, and healthier chickens.

    If you’re just starting out or thinking about adjusting your current setup, I hope this guide helps. And if you’re standing in your coop tonight with a tape measure and a headlamp, just know — I’ve been there too. Here’s to happy hens and peaceful evenings. 🐔

  • Best Charlotte Mason Homeschool Podcasts for Moms: My Go-To List for Encouragement and Inspiration

    Best Charlotte Mason Homeschool Podcasts for Moms: My Go-To List for Encouragement and Inspiration

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Can I be honest with you? Some of my best homeschool “professional development” happens while I’m folding laundry, driving to the library, or refilling the chicken waterer for the third time that day. That’s when I pop in my earbuds and let some wise Charlotte Mason mamas speak truth into my tired heart.

    If you’re a Charlotte Mason homeschool mom — or CM-curious — and you haven’t discovered the goldmine of podcasts out there, friend, pull up a chair. I’ve been homeschooling my elementary-age kiddos here in Northwest Florida for a few years now, and these podcasts have become like mentors I didn’t know I needed. They’ve helped me understand the philosophy deeper, troubleshoot tricky seasons, and remember why we do this in the first place.

    Let’s dig into the best Charlotte Mason homeschool podcasts for moms — the ones I actually listen to on repeat.

    Why Podcasts Are Perfect for Homeschool Moms

    Before we get to the list, can we just acknowledge that sitting down to read a book about homeschool philosophy sounds lovely in theory? But in reality, there’s a kid who needs help with math, the dog is barking at a squirrel, and someone just discovered a gecko in the bathroom (Florida life, y’all).

    Podcasts meet us where we are. In the carpool line. On the back porch while the kids catch bugs with their bug catcher kit. During that sacred 20 minutes of quiet time. They’re how busy moms actually learn — in the margins.

    My Favorite Charlotte Mason Podcasts

    A Delectable Education

    This is the one I recommend to every single mom who asks me about Charlotte Mason. Liz and Emily walk through Charlotte Mason’s original writings volume by volume, making them accessible and practical. They’re warm, thoughtful, and incredibly knowledgeable without ever being condescending.

    I’ve listened to their episodes on habit training and nature study multiple times. When I was struggling to understand how to make narration work with my younger kids, their episodes gave me the confidence to just start — imperfectly.

    The Charlotte Mason Show

    Hosted by Julie Ross from A Gentle Feast, this podcast covers everything from picture study to managing multiple ages. Julie has a calm, encouraging voice that feels like talking to a friend who’s a few steps ahead of you on this journey.

    I especially love her episodes on keeping things simple. When I start overcomplicating our days (which happens more than I’d like to admit), this podcast grounds me back in what matters.

    Your Morning Basket

    Pam Barnhill’s podcast isn’t exclusively Charlotte Mason, but it leans heavily that way and covers morning time beautifully. If you’re building a morning basket routine — which, if you’re CM, you probably are — this is essential listening.

    Her interviews with other homeschool moms are so encouraging. Real women, real families, real struggles. It reminds me that none of us have it all figured out.

    The Mason Jar

    This one comes from the folks at Charlotte Mason Institute, and it’s perfect for when you want to go deeper into the philosophy. They discuss Mason’s principles with nuance and depth, but still keep it conversational.

    I’ll admit, some episodes are more academic than others. But when I’m in a season of really wanting to understand why we do living books or nature study, this is where I turn.

    Thinking Love

    Another Charlotte Mason Institute podcast, but with a different feel. It’s shorter, often more reflective, and focuses on the spiritual and relational aspects of education. Perfect for those days when you need to remember that this is about relationship, not just curriculum.

    How I Actually Use These Podcasts

    I’m not one of those people who can listen to something while actively teaching. My brain just doesn’t work that way. But here’s when I press play:

    • During chores: Folding laundry, washing dishes, tidying up after the hurricane of a school day
    • On drives: We’re about 20 minutes from our favorite nature trails and library, so that’s prime podcast time
    • During chicken coop maintenance: Cleaning the coop, adding fresh diatomaceous earth for pest control, filling feeders — it all goes faster with a good episode
    • Early morning or late evening: Those quiet pockets before or after the kids are up

    Pairing Podcasts with Actual Resources

    Here’s the thing about podcast inspiration — it’s wonderful, but it can also lead to that overwhelmed feeling of “I should be doing ALL THE THINGS.” So I’ve learned to listen with a filter: what’s one thing I can actually implement this week?

    For example, after listening to several episodes about nature study, I finally committed to keeping a simple nature journal routine with my kids. Nothing fancy. Just observations, sketches, and the occasional watercolor painting with our Faber-Castell set.

    When I heard an episode about bird study, I pulled out our Sibley Birds guide and we started paying attention to what was visiting our backyard feeders (and what was brave enough to hang out near the chickens).

    The podcast gives the vision. But you still need a few good tools and resources to make it real. I get most of our Charlotte Mason curriculum through Rainbow Resource and Timberdoodle — both have been solid for finding living books and hands-on materials without the overwhelm of searching Amazon for hours.

    A Word of Encouragement

    If you’re new to Charlotte Mason, these podcasts might feel like drinking from a fire hose at first. There’s so much philosophy, so many ideas, so many “you should really be doing this” moments.

    But here’s what I’ve learned after a few years of this: Charlotte Mason homeschooling isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about raising kids who notice the world around them — the way the light hits the Spanish moss, the sound the chickens make when they find a bug, the thrill of discovering something new in a living book.

    It’s about giving our kids the kind of childhood we remember from the ’90s — or at least the one we wish we’d had. Less screen time, more mud pies. Less rushing, more wondering.

    These podcasts help me hold onto that vision on the hard days. They remind me why we’re doing this when the math lesson ends in tears (theirs or mine) and nobody wants to do their copywork.

    Start With Just One

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed by this list, just pick one podcast and start with their most recent episode. Don’t worry about going back to the beginning or listening in order. Just let it play while you’re doing something mundane, and see what sticks.

    That’s how I started. And now I can’t imagine homeschooling without these voices in my ear, cheering me on.

    Happy listening, friend. And if you see a fellow Florida mama in the library parking lot with earbuds in, nodding along to something — wave. It might be me, finally understanding something Charlotte Mason wrote 100 years ago, thanks to a podcast episode and a really long carpool line.

  • How to Document Homeschool for Florida PEP Scholarship: A Simple System That Actually Works

    If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already figured out the hardest part — actually homeschooling your kids. Now you just need to prove you’re doing it, right? Documenting your homeschool for the Florida PEP scholarship doesn’t have to feel like a second job. I promise.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    When we first started using the FES PEP scholarship, I’ll admit I was a little overwhelmed by the documentation requirements. What counts? How much is enough? Am I going to mess this up and lose our funding? But after a couple of years in the trenches — and plenty of conversations with other Florida homeschool mamas — I’ve landed on a system that’s simple, sustainable, and actually reflects how we learn around here.

    Understanding What Florida PEP Actually Requires

    First, let’s take a breath and look at what the scholarship actually asks for. The Florida Personalized Education Program (PEP) scholarship requires you to maintain a portfolio that demonstrates educational progress. This isn’t about proving you followed a rigid curriculum or that your kid can recite multiplication tables on command.

    You need to show:

    • That instruction is taking place
    • That your child is making educational progress
    • Samples of work across subject areas

    That’s it. Really. The state isn’t looking for perfection — they’re looking for evidence that learning is happening. And friend, if you’re homeschooling with any kind of intentionality, learning IS happening. You just need to capture it.

    Our Simple Documentation System

    I’m not naturally an organized person. I’m more of a “let’s see where the day takes us” type, which works beautifully for Charlotte Mason-style learning but less beautifully for paperwork. So I had to create a system that even I couldn’t mess up.

    Keep a Running Log

    I keep a simple spiral notebook in our homeschool space. At the end of each day (or let’s be honest, every few days), I jot down what we covered. It doesn’t have to be fancy:

    Tuesday: Read two chapters of Understood Betsy. Nature walk — identified three bird species using Sibley guide. Math lesson on carrying. Handwriting practice.

    That’s it. This takes maybe two minutes and creates a paper trail that shows consistent instruction. When evaluation time comes, you’ll be so grateful you did this.

    The Weekly Photo Dump

    Every Friday, I take photos of completed work, projects, nature journal entries, and anything else that shows learning. I drop them in a Google Photos album organized by month. This has been a game-changer.

    Our nature journals are probably my favorite thing to photograph because they capture so much — the watercolor paintings of Gulf Coast shells, sketches of the chickens, pressed wildflowers from our walks. It’s real evidence of learning AND it becomes a beautiful memory book.

    Subject Area Folders

    I keep simple folders for each main subject area: Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Art, and PE/Health. Throughout the week, I slip completed worksheets, writing samples, and printed photos into the appropriate folder. Nothing complicated — just a holding zone until portfolio review time.

    What Counts as Documentation (More Than You Think)

    Here’s where I want to encourage you: almost everything you’re already doing counts. Florida PEP doesn’t require traditional “school” work. They want to see educational progress, and that looks different for every family.

    Things We Document That You Might Not Think Of:

    Nature Study: Photos of my kids using their pocket microscope to examine pond water. Entries in their nature journals. Lists of birds identified. Sketches of insects caught with their bug catcher kit.

    Life Skills: Photos of the kids collecting eggs, measuring chicken feed, helping in the garden. These count for science, math, and practical life skills.

    Read-Alouds: I keep a running book list. All those hours snuggled on the couch reading living books? That’s language arts, history, and character education.

    Art: We love our Faber-Castell watercolors and I photograph finished paintings regularly. Art absolutely counts.

    Physical Education: Photos of bike rides, nature hikes, swimming at the beach, backyard games. Living in Northwest Florida means we can be outside almost year-round, and that outdoor play is legitimate PE.

    Making It Work With a Charlotte Mason Approach

    If you’re doing Charlotte Mason homeschooling like we are, documentation might feel a little tricky at first. So much of what we do is oral narration, living books, and nature observation — things that don’t always produce a worksheet.

    Here’s what works for us:

    Written Narrations: Once my kids were old enough, written narrations became gold for documentation. They show reading comprehension, writing skills, and content knowledge all in one.

    Nature Journals: I cannot overstate how valuable these are. They demonstrate science, art, writing, and observation skills. If you’re not already doing nature journaling, grab a quality sketchbook and start this week.

    Copywork and Dictation: These Charlotte Mason staples produce actual paper evidence of language arts instruction. Win-win.

    Photographs: When my daughter gives an oral narration about the life cycle of our chickens while we watch them in the backyard, I can’t hand that to an evaluator. But I CAN photograph her chicken observation journal, her diagram of a chicken’s anatomy, or the Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens she’s been reading.

    Curriculum Purchases Through PEP

    One beautiful thing about the PEP scholarship is that curriculum purchases are pre-approved documentation. When you buy through approved vendors like Rainbow Resource or Timberdoodle, you’re automatically creating a paper trail showing what you’re using for instruction.

    I keep a simple list of everything we’ve purchased through PEP each year. It helps at evaluation time and also reminds me of resources I bought and then forgot about (please tell me I’m not the only one).

    The Annual Evaluation

    In Florida, homeschoolers need an annual evaluation. For PEP families, this is when your documentation really comes together. You’ll gather your portfolio — that collection of work samples, your log, photos, and curriculum records — and meet with a certified evaluator.

    Here’s my biggest tip: don’t stress about making it perfect. Evaluators who work with homeschoolers understand that education looks different from traditional school. They’re looking for progress, not perfection.

    I typically organize our portfolio by subject area, include my log with dates, and add a selection of our best nature journal pages. The whole thing takes maybe an evening to pull together because I’ve been documenting all year.

    Keep It Sustainable

    The most important thing about any documentation system is that you’ll actually use it. If my system sounds like too much, simplify it. If you want more structure, add it. The goal is consistent, low-effort documentation that captures your homeschool without becoming a burden.

    We got into this homeschool life so our kids could learn through wonder and exploration — catching fireflies at dusk, raising baby chicks, reading good books on the porch while the dog naps at our feet. Don’t let documentation anxiety steal the joy from that.

    You’re doing a beautiful thing, mama. The paperwork is just proof of what you already know — your kids are learning, growing, and thriving. And that’s the whole point, isn’t it?

  • Non-Toxic Pet Shampoo for Labradoodle Sensitive Skin: What We Use (And What We Avoid)

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever watched your labradoodle scratch themselves raw after a bath, you know the frustration. You’re trying to do something good — get them clean after a romp through the Florida mud or a roll in something suspicious near the chicken coop — and somehow you’ve made everything worse. Red skin, flaky patches, endless scratching. It’s heartbreaking.

    Our mini labradoodle has been part of our family for years now, and let me tell you, we learned the hard way that what goes ON our pets matters just as much as what goes IN them. The same way I started reading labels on our kids’ sunscreen and household cleaners, I eventually had to get serious about what we were bathing our dog with. And spoiler alert: most conventional pet shampoos are full of the same junk I’d never put on my children’s skin.

    Why Labradoodles Are Prone to Sensitive Skin

    Labradoodles — whether standard, medium, or mini like ours — often inherit sensitive skin from their poodle side. That gorgeous curly or wavy coat that makes them so appealing? It also traps moisture, allergens, and irritants close to the skin. Here in Northwest Florida, we’re dealing with humidity that never quits, seasonal pollen that coats everything in yellow dust, and sandy soil that works its way into every curl.

    Add in the fact that doodles often have what groomers call “high maintenance” coats that need regular washing, and you’ve got a recipe for skin problems if you’re using the wrong products.

    Our girl started showing signs of sensitivity around age two — dry patches behind her ears, pink irritated skin on her belly after baths, and that telltale excessive licking of her paws. The vet suggested allergies (helpful, right?) and wanted to put her on medication. That’s when I decided to look at what we were actually putting on her first.

    What Makes a Pet Shampoo “Non-Toxic” (And What to Avoid)

    Here’s where my science background kicks in. When I started researching non-toxic pet shampoo for labradoodle sensitive skin, I realized the pet care industry is basically the Wild West. There’s minimal regulation, and words like “natural” and “gentle” mean absolutely nothing legally.

    Ingredients to Avoid

    Sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate) are the biggest culprits. They’re what make shampoo foam up all pretty, but they strip natural oils from your dog’s skin and coat. For a labradoodle that already tends toward dryness? Disaster.

    Artificial fragrances are another red flag. That “fresh puppy” scent is usually a cocktail of synthetic chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions. If the label just says “fragrance” without specifying the source, I put it back on the shelf.

    Parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives — same stuff I avoid in our family’s personal care products — have no business being on our dog’s skin either.

    What to Look For Instead

    The best non-toxic pet shampoos use plant-based cleansers, essential oils (used appropriately for pets — some are toxic to dogs, so do your research), colloidal oatmeal for soothing, and natural oils like coconut or jojoba for moisture.

    We’ve had great luck with products from Wondercide — they’re actually a Texas company, so they understand Southern climate issues, and everything they make is designed to be safe around kids and pets. Their shampoo bars last forever and don’t irritate our girl’s skin at all.

    Our Bath Day Routine

    Bath time at our house usually happens outside, which is one of the perks of Florida living. Even in January, we can usually find a warm enough afternoon to set up in the backyard. The kids think it’s hilarious, the dog tolerates it, and the chickens observe from a safe distance like judgmental little dinosaurs.

    Here’s what works for us:

    Pre-bath brush out. Those labradoodle curls need to be tangle-free before they get wet, or you’re creating felted mats. We do this on the back porch while the kids are doing nature journaling or outdoor time.

    Lukewarm water only. Hot water dries out sensitive skin even more.

    Dilute the shampoo. Even with non-toxic products, I mix a small amount with water before applying. It spreads easier and rinses cleaner.

    Rinse, rinse, rinse. Product buildup is a major cause of skin irritation. I rinse until I think I’m done, then rinse again.

    Apple cider vinegar final rinse. Once a month or so, I do a diluted ACV rinse (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water). It helps restore pH balance and adds shine to that doodle coat.

    Between Baths: Keeping Skin Healthy

    Honest truth? The less we bathe her, the better her skin does. We aim for every 3-4 weeks unless she’s gotten into something truly foul (chicken coop adventures, anyone?). Between baths, we use a few strategies:

    Regular brushing distributes natural oils and removes allergens trapped in her coat. The kids have actually taken this over as one of their responsibilities — it’s become part of our afternoon rhythm alongside checking on the hens and recording observations in our nature journals.

    Paw wipes after outdoor play. We keep a stack of damp washcloths by the back door. Quick wipe of the paws means fewer allergens tracked inside and less paw-licking later.

    Quality diet with omega fatty acids. Skin health starts from the inside. We add fish oil to her food and notice a real difference in her coat texture.

    Flea and tick prevention that isn’t toxic. We use Wondercide for this too — their yard spray and topical treatments mean we’re not putting harsh chemicals on her skin. Important when you’ve got kids who are constantly hugging and snuggling the dog.

    A Note on Florida-Specific Challenges

    Living in the Pensacola area means dealing with humidity that can lead to yeast overgrowth on sensitive dog skin, plus sand that acts like tiny pieces of sandpaper against irritated areas. Our girl also has a tendency to find every mud puddle and brackish water source when we’re out exploring nature trails.

    I’ve learned to keep her ears extra dry (doodle ears trap moisture like nobody’s business), and we do more frequent paw checks during our wet season. The same diatomaceous earth I use in the chicken coop for pest control can actually be dusted lightly on dog bedding to help with fleas naturally — just make sure you’re using food-grade.

    When to See the Vet

    Switching to non-toxic products resolved about 80% of our dog’s skin issues. But I want to be clear: sometimes sensitive skin is a symptom of something else. If you’re seeing hot spots that won’t heal, persistent ear infections, or dramatic hair loss, please see your vet. We’re not trying to replace medical care here — just reduce the toxic load on our pets the same way we do for our families.

    The Bigger Picture

    Here’s what I’ve come to believe: the way we care for every member of our household — kids, chickens, dog included — reflects our values. We’re trying to raise children who notice things, who pay attention to what’s real and true, who understand that choices have consequences. Choosing non-toxic pet shampoo for our labradoodle’s sensitive skin isn’t just about avoiding a vet bill. It’s about being intentional, reading labels, questioning what we’re sold, and making decisions based on what actually works.

    Our kids see us do this. They see us research, ask questions, try things, adjust. That’s education too — maybe the most important kind.

    If your doodle is struggling with skin issues, start simple. Swap out the shampoo, pay attention to ingredients, give it a few weeks. You might be surprised how much better things get when you remove the things causing harm.

    And hey — if you figure out how to keep them from rolling in chicken poop, let me know. That’s a problem I haven’t solved yet.

  • How to Make Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe: A Simple Guide for Backyard Flocks

    How to Make Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe: A Simple Guide for Backyard Flocks

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever stood in the feed store aisle squinting at ingredient labels and wondering what half those things even are, you’re not alone. When we first got our backyard chickens, I assumed commercial feed was the only option. But the more I learned about what goes into some of those bags — and the more our family leaned into intentional, non-toxic living — the more I wanted to try something different.

    Making your own chicken feed isn’t complicated. It does take a little research and some trial and error, but honestly? It’s become one of those rhythms in our homestead life that just feels right. Kind of like making bread from scratch or hanging laundry on the line. There’s something satisfying about knowing exactly what’s nourishing your flock.

    Why Consider Homemade Chicken Feed?

    Let me be real with you: commercial feed is convenient, and there are some good organic options out there. If that’s what works for your family, no judgment here. But there are a few reasons we made the switch to mixing our own.

    You control the ingredients. No mysterious fillers, no soy (which some chicken keepers prefer to avoid), and no wondering about the quality of what’s in that bag.

    It can be more affordable. Especially if you buy grains in bulk or connect with local farms. Here in Northwest Florida, we’ve found a few co-ops that make sourcing ingredients easier than I expected.

    Your chickens might actually prefer it. Ours definitely do. They go absolutely wild for the mix, and I’ve noticed their feathers look glossier and their egg yolks are that deep, beautiful orange.

    If you’re newer to keeping chickens and want a solid foundation before diving into DIY feed, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is an excellent resource. It covers nutrition, health, and just about everything else you’d want to know.

    Understanding What Chickens Need Nutritionally

    Before you start tossing grains into a bucket, it helps to understand the basics of chicken nutrition. Laying hens need a diet that’s roughly:

    • 16-18% protein (higher for growing chicks or molting hens)
    • Calcium for strong eggshells
    • A balance of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals

    They also benefit from variety — just like us. Chickens are omnivores, and in the wild (or in a nice big backyard), they’d be eating bugs, seeds, greens, and all sorts of things. Our goal with homemade feed is to mimic that diversity as much as possible.

    A Simple Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe

    Here’s the base recipe we use for our laying hens. You can adjust ratios based on availability and your flock’s needs.

    Base Grain Mix (by weight)

    • 4 parts whole wheat or wheat berries
    • 2 parts corn (cracked or whole)
    • 2 parts oats (whole or rolled)
    • 1 part sunflower seeds (black oil)
    • 1 part field peas or lentils
    • ½ part flaxseed or sesame seeds

    Protein Boosters (pick one or combine)

    • Fish meal
    • Dried mealworms
    • Brewer’s yeast

    Calcium & Minerals

    • Oyster shell (free choice, in a separate dish)
    • Kelp meal (a sprinkle for trace minerals)
    • Food-grade diatomaceous earth — we add a small amount to the feed and also use it in the coop for natural pest control

    Optional Additions

    • Dried herbs (oregano, parsley, calendula)
    • Garlic powder (natural immune support)
    • Probiotic powder

    We mix up a big batch every few weeks and store it in a metal trash can with a tight lid. Florida humidity is no joke, so keeping feed dry and pest-free is essential.

    Tips for Success with DIY Chicken Feed

    Start Slow

    If your chickens have been on commercial feed, transition gradually. Mix your homemade feed with their regular feed over a week or two so their digestive systems can adjust.

    Watch Your Flock

    Pay attention to egg production, feather quality, and energy levels. If something seems off, you may need to tweak the protein content or add a supplement.

    Don’t Skip the Calcium

    Laying hens need calcium for eggshells, and the feed alone usually isn’t enough. We keep a dish of crushed oyster shell in the coop at all times so the girls can self-regulate.

    Let Them Forage Too

    Homemade feed is just part of the picture. Our chickens spend their days scratching around the yard, eating bugs and weeds and whatever else catches their attention. That natural foraging adds nutrition and keeps them happy. It’s the chicken equivalent of a 1990s childhood — less processed, more exploration.

    Making It a Learning Experience

    One thing I love about keeping chickens is how naturally it ties into our homeschool. We’re a Charlotte Mason family, so living books and nature study are already woven into our days. The chickens give us endless opportunities for observation.

    My kids have learned about nutrition, life cycles, and even basic math through our flock. Measuring out feed ingredients? That’s math. Observing how different foods affect egg color? That’s science. Sketching a hen in their nature journal? That’s art.

    If your kids are interested in getting more involved, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens is a wonderful book. It’s written at their level and covers everything from daily care to fun projects.

    A Note on Sourcing Ingredients

    Finding bulk grains can feel tricky at first, but here are a few places to check:

    • Local feed mills — often cheaper than bagged feed at big box stores
    • Azure Standard — delivers to drop points across Florida
    • Buying co-ops — check Facebook groups for your area
    • Restaurant supply stores — sometimes carry bulk grains

    It took us a few months to figure out our sourcing rhythm, but now it’s second nature. And honestly, picking up a 50-pound bag of oats feels a lot more satisfying than grabbing a bag of mystery pellets off the shelf.

    Keeping the Coop Running Smoothly

    While we’re talking about feeding, I’ll mention a couple other things that have made our chicken-keeping life easier here in Florida.

    First, a good chicken waterer with nipples keeps the water clean way longer than open dishes — important when it’s 90 degrees and humid.

    Second, we finally invested in an automatic coop door, and it’s been a game-changer. The girls are safely tucked in at dusk and let out at dawn, even if we’re running late on a busy homeschool morning.

    Final Thoughts

    Making your own chicken feed isn’t about being perfect or doing everything from scratch. It’s about taking one more step toward knowing what goes into the things your family depends on — whether that’s the eggs on your breakfast table or the feed in the coop.

    Our chickens are healthy, our kids are learning, and I feel good about what we’re doing. That’s enough for me.

    If you’re on the fence, I’d say give it a try. Start with a small batch. See how your flock responds. You might just find, like we did, that it fits right into the rhythm of your days.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, I hear the girls fussing — someone probably laid an egg and wants the whole neighborhood to know about it.

  • Best Florida Nature Centers for Homeschool Field Trips (From a Mama Who’s Been There)

    Best Florida Nature Centers for Homeschool Field Trips (From a Mama Who’s Been There)

    If you’re a Florida homeschool parent trying to figure out how to make science come alive beyond the textbook, you’re in the right place. There’s something magical about watching your kid crouch down to examine a gopher tortoise burrow or gasp at a manatee surfacing for air — that kind of learning just can’t happen at a desk.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    We’ve spent the last several years exploring nature centers across Florida, and I’ll be honest — some are absolutely worth the drive, and others are better saved for a rainy day when you’re desperate to get out of the house. Here’s my real-deal guide to the best Florida nature centers for homeschool field trips, plus tips for making the most of your visits.

    Why Nature Centers Are Perfect for Florida Homeschoolers

    Florida is basically one giant outdoor classroom. We’ve got ecosystems most states can only dream of — salt marshes, cypress swamps, coastal dunes, pine flatwoods, and the Everglades, just to name a few. Nature centers give our kids guided access to these habitats with interpretive trails, live animal exhibits, and educators who actually know what they’re talking about.

    For Charlotte Mason families like ours, nature centers are gold. They support the kind of living, hands-on science that sticks with kids — the kind where you’re sketching a brown pelican in your nature journal rather than filling in a worksheet about one.

    And if you’re using the Florida PEP scholarship, many nature centers qualify as approved educational expenses. Always double-check, but we’ve used ours for memberships and special homeschool programs without issue.

    Our Favorite Florida Nature Centers by Region

    Northwest Florida (The Panhandle)

    This is our home turf, so I’ve got strong opinions here.

    Gulf Islands National Seashore (Pensacola/Gulf Breeze) — Technically a National Park site, but the Fort Pickens area has ranger-led programs and incredible coastal ecosystems. We’ve seen sea turtles nesting, explored tidal pools, and learned about the barrier island system. Pack non-toxic sunscreen because there’s zero shade.

    E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center (Freeport) — Named after the famous biologist and absolutely worth the drive. They have phenomenal homeschool days with hands-on activities. The preserve itself is gorgeous — longleaf pine habitat, gopher tortoises everywhere, and trails that feel like stepping back in time. Bring a pocket microscope for examining lichen and bark up close.

    Central Florida

    Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park — This one is all about the manatees, y’all. The underwater observatory lets you watch them at eye level, and they have Florida-native wildlife including black bears, whooping cranes, and the famous Lu the Hippo (he was grandfathered in). It’s touristy but educational.

    Boyd Hill Nature Preserve (St. Petersburg) — Six distinct ecosystems on one property. They offer homeschool programs throughout the year, and the trails are perfect for bird identification practice. We always bring our Sibley Guide to Birds here — the variety of wading birds is incredible.

    Wekiwa Springs State Park — The spring itself is stunning, but the nature trails are where the magic happens for homeschoolers. We’ve spotted deer, armadillos, and countless birds. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

    South Florida

    Everglades National Park (Multiple Entrances) — I know, it’s a national park, not a nature center. But the visitor centers (especially Shark Valley and Flamingo) offer ranger programs that rival any formal nature center. Anhinga Trail is basically a guaranteed alligator sighting and perfect for younger kids. Just go in winter unless you enjoy being carried away by mosquitoes.

    Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (Naples) — Operated by Audubon, this one features a 2.25-mile boardwalk through old-growth cypress forest. It’s otherworldly. They have excellent educational programs and the birding is phenomenal. If your kids are into journaling, this is a dream location for nature sketching with watercolor pencils.

    Flamingo Gardens (Davie) — Part botanical garden, part wildlife sanctuary. They have a wonderful collection of Florida native animals that can’t be released back into the wild. The wading bird rookery during nesting season is unforgettable.

    How to Make the Most of Your Visit

    Before You Go

    Do a little prep work — not a full lesson plan, just enough to spark curiosity. Look up what animals or ecosystems you might encounter. Let your kids help research. If you’re visiting a place with specific wildlife (like Homosassa for manatees), read a living book about them first.

    Also, check for homeschool-specific programs. Many Florida nature centers offer discounted homeschool days with guided activities. These often fill up fast, so get on their email lists.

    What to Pack

    Our nature center bag always includes:

    • Nature journals and pencils
    • A field guide (birds, tracks, or trees depending on location)
    • Magnifying glass or pocket microscope
    • Bug catcher kit for catch-and-release observation
    • Water bottles and snacks
    • Sunscreen and bug spray (we use Wondercide for a non-toxic option)
    • Rain boots if there’s any chance of wet trails

    After Your Trip

    This is where Charlotte Mason homeschoolers shine. Don’t let the learning end when you leave the parking lot. Have your kids narrate what they observed. Spend time on nature journal entries — even rough sketches with labels count. Look up any animals or plants you couldn’t identify.

    We like to extend our trips by checking out library books about what we saw or watching a documentary together. It turns a single field trip into a week of connected learning.

    A Note on Slowing Down

    Here’s my gentle reminder: you don’t have to see everything. Some of our best nature center memories are from days when we barely made it past the first exhibit because one of the kids was fascinated by a spider web or couldn’t stop watching the turtles bask.

    That kind of slow, wonder-filled observation? That’s the whole point. That’s the 1990s childhood we’re trying to give our kids — where boredom leads to discovery and there’s no rush to get to the next thing.

    Our chickens at home teach us this daily, actually. Kids will spend an embarrassing amount of time just watching hens scratch around. It looks like nothing is happening, but so much is — observation skills, patience, connection to the natural world.

    Plan Your Next Adventure

    Florida really is a homeschooler’s paradise when it comes to nature education. Between our state parks, wildlife refuges, and dedicated nature centers, we have access to learning experiences that families in other states would have to travel hundreds of miles for.

    So pick one from this list, pack your bag, and go. Your kids don’t need a perfect lesson plan — they need mud on their boots and stories to tell. The learning will happen, I promise.

    And hey, if you discover an amazing Florida nature center I didn’t mention, come tell me about it. We’re always looking for our next adventure.

    Happy trails, friends.

  • How to Teach Kids About Stars and Planets in Your Homeschool (Without a Fancy Telescope)

    How to Teach Kids About Stars and Planets in Your Homeschool (Without a Fancy Telescope)

    There’s something about standing in the backyard at dusk, waiting for the first star to appear, that just hits different. My kids will argue over who spots it first while the chickens are making their way into the coop for the night, and our dog is doing her final perimeter check of the yard. These simple moments — the ones that don’t cost anything and don’t require a screen — are exactly why we homeschool the way we do.

    If you’ve been wondering how to teach kids about stars and planets in your homeschool, I want you to take a deep breath and release any pressure you’re feeling. You don’t need an expensive telescope. You don’t need a PhD in astrophysics. You just need curiosity, a little intentionality, and some clear Florida nights (which, thankfully, we get plenty of down here in the Panhandle).

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Why Astronomy Belongs in a Charlotte Mason Homeschool

    Charlotte Mason believed children should be raised on a feast of ideas and given direct contact with the natural world. And honestly? What’s more awe-inspiring than the night sky? It’s the original wonder — the thing humans have looked up at and questioned for thousands of years.

    Astronomy isn’t just science. It’s poetry, it’s history, it’s mythology, it’s math. It connects to everything. When my kids learn about the phases of the moon, they’re also learning about tides, about ancient calendars, about how people navigated before GPS existed. This is the kind of rich, living education that sticks.

    Plus, studying the stars gets us outside after dinner instead of defaulting to a show. And that’s always a win in my book.

    Start Simple: Observation First

    Before you buy anything or plan elaborate lessons, just go outside. Seriously. That’s step one.

    We started our astronomy journey by simply sitting on a blanket in the backyard after sunset. No agenda. Just looking up. The kids noticed things on their own — “Why is that star brighter?” “Is that one moving?” “Why does the moon look different than last week?”

    Those questions? That’s your curriculum right there.

    Keep a nature journal dedicated to night sky observations. We sketch the moon phases, note which planets are visible, and draw any constellations we’ve identified. It doesn’t have to be beautiful — it just has to be real. My kindergartener’s moon drawings look like lumpy potatoes, and that’s perfectly fine.

    Moon Phases Are Your Easy Win

    If you’re brand new to teaching astronomy, start with the moon. It’s visible, it changes predictably, and kids can track it themselves.

    Every night for a month, we step outside and find the moon. We talk about whether it’s waxing or waning, crescent or gibbous. By the end of the month, even my youngest understood the basic cycle. No workbook required — just consistent observation.

    Learn the Planets Like Old Friends

    Here’s the thing about planets: kids don’t need to memorize facts from a textbook. They need to feel like Jupiter and Saturn are familiar friends.

    We read picture books about the solar system (the library has tons), watch short documentaries together, and talk about the planets casually over breakfast. “Did you know it rains diamonds on Neptune?” is a great way to start a Tuesday.

    For hands-on learning, we’ve made salt dough planets, sorted them by size using fruit, and calculated how old we’d be on different planets (my seven-year-old was thrilled to learn she’d be “not even one” on Jupiter).

    If you’re using Math-U-See or any other hands-on math curriculum, astronomy offers endless real-world connections. Distances, sizes, time calculations — it all ties together beautifully.

    Use What You Already Have

    Binoculars Work Great

    Before you invest in a telescope, try binoculars. We can see Jupiter’s moons with a decent pair, and the craters on our moon are absolutely stunning up close. Kids can handle binoculars more easily than a telescope, and there’s less fiddling with settings.

    Apps for Identification (Used Wisely)

    I know, I know — we’re a low-screen family. But I’ll make an exception for a stargazing app used intentionally. We pull it out, identify what we’re looking at, and put it away. Five minutes, max. It’s a tool, not entertainment.

    Books That Feel Like Adventures

    We love field guides that make identification feel like a treasure hunt. The same way we use our Sibley Birds guide for bird watching, we have constellation guides that the kids flip through before we head outside. It builds anticipation and gives them something to search for.

    Create Rituals Around the Night Sky

    One of the best parts of homeschooling is that we can build our days (and nights) around what matters to us. We’ve created little astronomy rituals that have become family traditions:

    New Moon Nights: When the moon is dark, we focus on stars. We lay out blankets, bring hot chocolate (even in Florida, January evenings can be chilly), and see how many constellations we can find.

    Planet Watching Parties: When a planet is especially visible — like when Venus is bright in the evening sky — we make it an event. We’ll eat dinner outside and watch it appear as the sky darkens.

    Meteor Shower Campouts: Florida’s relatively dark skies (especially if you get away from the city lights near Pensacola) make meteor showers spectacular. We’ve stayed up late for the Perseids and Geminids, and those memories are priceless.

    Art and Astronomy Go Together

    One of the most Charlotte Mason things we do with astronomy is nature journaling the night sky. We use Faber-Castell watercolors to paint what we observe — dark blue washes with white and yellow stars dotted on top.

    The kids also love making constellation viewers out of toilet paper tubes and black paper with holes poked in patterns. Low-tech, zero-screen fun that reinforces what they’re learning.

    Tie It All Together

    Astronomy connects to everything we’re already doing:

    • Nature study: The night sky is nature. We’re just looking up instead of down.
    • Poetry and literature: We read myths about the constellations and poems about the moon.
    • History: We learn about ancient astronomers and how navigation worked before modern technology.
    • Science: Gravity, light, orbits, seasons — it’s all here.

    This is the beauty of a living education. Nothing exists in isolation. Stars connect to stories connect to science connect to wonder.

    Resources Worth Having

    You don’t need much, but a few quality resources make this easier:

    • A good nature journal for night sky observations
    • A simple constellation guide (check Rainbow Resource or Timberdoodle for curated options)
    • Binoculars for closer looks
    • Watercolors for painting what you see
    • Blankets and bug spray (we use Wondercide so we’re not breathing in chemicals while stargazing)

    The Gift of Wonder

    Here’s what I want you to remember: teaching your kids about stars and planets isn’t about checking a box on your homeschool plan. It’s about preserving wonder. It’s about giving them something bigger than themselves to think about. It’s about being together, outside, looking up.

    Some of my favorite childhood memories are of summer nights catching fireflies and watching for shooting stars. I didn’t know I was “learning astronomy.” I just knew the sky was magical. That’s what I want for my kids too — and it sounds like that’s what you want for yours.

    So tonight, after the sun sets and the chickens are roosting and the house is quiet, grab a blanket and head outside. Point up. Ask questions. Wonder together.

    That’s the whole lesson. And it’s more than enough.