Help for Reluctant Readers - A Homeschool Mom's Guide

Help for Reluctant Readers - A Homeschool Mom's Guide

Author: Classical Conversations Inc. May 12, 2026 Duration: 49:54

In this episode of the Everyday Educator podcast, host Delise Germond sits down with her mother and longtime homeschooling veteran Chelly Barnard to talk about why reading is the single most important skill you can give your child. From raising reluctant readers and navigating learning challenges, to building a lifelong love of books through read-alouds and classical education — this conversation is packed with practical encouragement for every homeschool mom.

Chelly and Delise get honest about their own reading journeys — including what it looked like to struggle, to teach differently, and to fall in love with books later in life. You'll hear real strategies for helping kids who resist reading, advice on when to seek outside help, and why classical Christian education uniquely positions homeschool families to raise voracious, articulate readers.

The episode wraps with a rich list of book recommendations — from Fahrenheit 451 and Stepping Heavenward to Winnie the Pooh and Beatrix Potter — plus a reference to Mortimer Adler's beloved essay "How to Mark a Book."

Whether your child loves reading or avoids it, this episode will encourage and equip you to make books a central part of your homeschool life.

 

This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by:

Classical Conversations just released "The Habits of a Classical Education"—the long-awaited successor to "The Core." This resource helps you naturally integrate the Five Core Habits into daily life, enabling classical, Christian education where relationships and lifelong learning flourish.

It's here! Order your copy of "The Habits of a Classical Education: Practicing the Art of Grammar" during the April sale!


For homeschooling parents navigating the immense responsibility and joy of educating their children, Everyday Educator offers a thoughtful companion on the journey. This podcast, from Classical Conversations Inc., delves into the practical realities and philosophical foundations of home education, all framed within a supportive Christian worldview. It moves beyond abstract theory to focus on the daily conversations, challenges, and triumphs that define learning at home. Listeners will hear from experienced educators and fellow parents, gaining insights into classical methods that emphasize wisdom and virtue, not just information. The discussions often explore how to cultivate a genuine love for learning in children, fostering curiosity through time-tested approaches. Importantly, the podcast underscores the value of community, reflecting the belief that education flourishes within fellowship and shared purpose. Each episode aims to equip, encourage, and inspire parents, providing tangible ideas and reflective perspectives to strengthen their vital role. Whether you are new to homeschooling or a seasoned veteran seeking fresh inspiration, this podcast serves as a resource for integrating classical, Christian principles into the fabric of your family's everyday life, transforming routine lessons into meaningful dialogues.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Everyday Educator
Podcast Episodes
Before You Begin Challenge: Academic Readiness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:09
Feeling overwhelmed about the upcoming school year? You're not alone. In this episode of Everyday Educator, academic advisors Deb and Emily break down exactly how to set your family up for a stellar Classical Conversatio…
From Busy to Blessed: Learning to Unbusy Your Homeschool [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:02
What if the secret to thriving in motherhood isn't doing more, but doing less? In this heartfelt conversation, veteran homeschool moms Shelly Stockton and Amy share hard-won wisdom about mentorship, marriage, and motherh…
The Heart of Homeschooling: Relationships Over Academics [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:31
Are you accidentally teaching your children that performance matters more than their hearts? In this eye-opening episode, host Lisa Bailey sits down with homeschool veteran Alicia Clark to explore a counter-cultural trut…
How Do You Know When You're Ready to Homeschool? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:01
"Am I really ready for this?" If you've ever wrestled with doubts about starting your homeschool journey, you're definitely not alone. In this encouraging episode of Everyday Educator, host Kelly Wilt sits down with two…
Homeschooling with Down Syndrome and Tourette's: Real Mom Advice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:13
What if the biggest challenge to homeschooling a child with special needs isn't the child—but getting yourself out of the way? Join host Lisa Bailey as she sits down with two homeschooling moms, Ginny Tran and Jody Pries…
Math Beyond the Textbook: Creative Summer Learning Ideas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:17
What if the secret to making math enjoyable for your kids was already sitting in your game closet? Join Delise Germond and Babs Harrell, two self-proclaimed "non-math moms" who discovered their love for numbers later in…
Creating Summer Scientists: Easy Activities for Curious Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:46
Did you know your kitchen is already a fully-equipped science lab? Join host Delise Germond and guest Amy Jones as they explore how to embrace scientific wonder during the summer months without the overwhelm. Amy, a seas…
Cultivating Curious Readers: A Family Approach to Summer Learning [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:37
What if summer reading could be the highlight of your child's day instead of a dreaded chore? Forget everything you think you know about summer reading! Lisa, Delise, and Kelly Wilt reveal the secret that transforms relu…
Is Being Biased Really A Bad Thing? with Kathy Gibbens [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:05
Can your kids spot a red herring in a political debate? In this engaging episode, hosts Lisa and Delise chat with Kathy Gibbens, creator of the "Filter It Through a Brain Cell" podcast, about teaching critical thinking t…