As homeschoolers, our world is an open classroom. How do you include cultural learning into your homeschool? Tune in as my special guest, Leah Farish, joins me, Felice Gerwitz, on Vintage Homeschool Moms.

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Cultural Learning ~ Episode 562 with Leah Farish

Leah is an award-winning attorney, author, and speaker who has not only homeschooled but represented homeschooling families.  Her podcast, Conversation Balloons, is in Spotify’s Top 25% and is on YouTube and all the other main platforms.  Her website is LeahFarish.com

Introduction to Cultural Learning in Homeschooling

Leah shares her journey from a legal career to homeschooling her children, emphasizing the value of cultural learning. We explore how cultural exposure can enhance a child’s education, broadening a homeschooling approach. Cultural learning is often overlooked in traditional education, but homeschooling offers unique opportunities to integrate it meaningfully. Leah’s background as a homeschooling parent and her passion for cultural diversity provide a compelling case for why this topic matters.

Leah’s Homeschooling Journey

Leah never planned to homeschool. As a former attorney and certified teacher, she trusted professional educators—her family was full of them! But when her son’s Montessori school didn’t meet his needs, she felt called to take charge. We hear how she balanced her legal career with homeschooling by focusing on what only she could offer her kids and delegating the rest, like driving to art classes. Her story is a great example for busy parents wondering how to make homeschooling work.

Why Cultural Learning Matters

Leah’s childhood travels with her pilot father sparked her love for other cultures, and she wanted her kids to share that appreciation. We explore how learning about different people and traditions builds humility and respect for your own heritage while opening kids’ eyes to the world. It’s about helping them grow into thoughtful, curious individuals who value the beauty of diversity.

Fun Ways to Bring Cultures Home

Leah shares creative ideas for making cultural learning a part of homeschooling. From hosting international students for dinner to throwing a Brazilian culture party with 50 kids, she shows how to make learning hands-on and fun. We hear stories of her kids meeting people from Syria, China, and beyond, tasting new foods, and asking quirky questions like, “Do they spank kids in Brazil?” These tips are perfect for parents looking to spark their kids’ curiosity about the world.

Diving into Languages and Traditions

Language learning and cultural immersion go hand in hand, and Leah’s family embraced both. We laugh over her kids’ attempts to learn Chinese and their mission trip to Mexico, where her daughter declared, “I love my language!” These moments show how homeschooling lets you personalize cultural experiences, whether it’s practicing Spanish with new friends or discovering unique traditions like fencing as a sport.

Connecting Faith and Culture

Leah and Felice talk about the spiritual side of cultural learning, like attending a worship service on a ski slope or visiting St. Peter’s in Rome. We see how these experiences teach kids about the unity of faith across cultures and strengthen family values. Whether it’s exploring a local synagogue or a Greek Orthodox church, these moments help kids connect with their beliefs and the world around them.

Navigating Homeschooling Laws

Leah, with her legal background, sheds light on the challenges some homeschoolers face as lawmakers push for more oversight. We discuss truancy laws and the need to know your state’s rules—check out HSLDA’s website for details. Her insights help parents feel confident in their rights while navigating the system, especially in states where homeschooling feels under threat.

Building Community Through Homeschooling

Homeschooling fosters independence and creativity, and Leah points to studies showing homeschoolers are more likely to vote and volunteer. We also learn how some states let homeschoolers join public school sports or music programs, giving kids the best of both worlds. It’s all about finding local resources to make your kids’ education well-rounded and connected.

Creating a Lasting Homeschool Legacy

Leah wraps up by reflecting on the legacy of homeschooling. We hear how following her instincts and faith led to a rewarding experience for her family. Her story inspires parents to trust their gut and create an education that blends cultural learning with their unique values, leaving a lasting impact on their kids.

Get Inspired and Take Action

Felice closes the episode with a call to explore cultural learning at Vintage Homeschool Moms. Check out Leah’s podcast, Conversation Balloons, and visit her website at leahfarish.com for more. Subscribe to the podcast, share it with friends, and start bringing the world into your homeschool today!

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