Home Education with Ease

In this empowering and heartfelt episode of the Home Education with Ease podcast, host Christine Furman welcomes transformational business coach, best-selling author, and speaker Dr. Christina Fontana for a deeply authentic conversation. Together, they explore the emotional and spiritual journey of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and the co-creation of their new Best-Selling book, Expanding Your Brilliance.This episode dives into the importance of sharing your story, the healing power of nervous system work, and how vulnerability becomes a gateway to authentic connection. From navigating self-doubt and social media pressures to breaking generational patterns and building a legacy rooted in love, Christine and Christina share personal stories, practical tools, and faith-filled encouragement.Listeners will walk away inspired to embrace their own brilliance, create clarity through boundaries, and lead with intention—whether they’re teaching their children at home or growing a soul-led business. This is a powerful reminder that you are not alone on your journey, and that both healing and growth begin with connection.Takeaways: Confidence starts at home—instill independence and belief in your children by giving them safe opportunities to explore and grow.Nervous system work is about self-connection—meet your needs with compassion rather than judgment.You don’t have to be perfect to be impactful—your authenticity is your greatest strength.Transformation happens in the in-between—from the decision to write a book to seeing the final product, growth is in the process.Capacity must be created intentionally—decluttering your environment (and your mind) makes space for creativity and peace.God is the ultimate CEO—leading and guiding us down the most aligned paths.Your story matters—whether you’ve faced trauma, grief, anxiety, or uncertainty, your experiences can become someone else’s hope.Quotes: “You do the possible, and He will do the impossible.” – Christine Furman“Let’s meet those protective parts with compassion. That’s how we truly heal.” – Dr. Christina Fontana“We’re breaking patterns—and raising our kids with the intention we didn’t grow up with.” – Christine Furman“Your home environment is shaping your children every single day.” – Christine Furman“When you expand your capacity, you expand your brilliance.” – Dr. Christina Fontana“You’re not alone. There are people ready to support you—you just have to ask.” – Dr. Christina FontanaResources & Links:📖 Expanding Your Brilliance Book: https://a.co/d/8oemWXt 🎁 Free Book Bundle: Prayer cards, business tools, affirmations, and more https://courseswithdrchristina.mykajabi.com/offers/pPStsoiG/checkout             *Use coupon code EXPANDYOURBRILLIANCE to get it free!🧠 Reignite Your Light: Simple Effective Burnout Prevention Strategies book - https://courseswithdrchristina.mykajabi.com/offers/PrVdfXy4/checkout🌐 Connect with Dr. Christina:Website:...

In this heartfelt follow-up to last week's "What I Want My Kids to Know," Christine shares the real-life moments and home experiences that shape the values, confidence, and independence of her children. From preparing their home for the Masters Golf Tournament to the quiet moments of emotional coaching, she reflects on how intentional parenting and homeschooling create lasting life lessons. Christine dives into the importance of modeling compassion, authenticity, and teachability—core values she hopes to instill in her children and inspire in other families. This episode is filled with practical examples, gentle encouragement, and a loving reminder that it's the small moments that build the strongest foundation.Takeaways: Intention beats perfection. Parenting and homeschooling don't require perfection—just presence and purpose.Emotions matter. Modeling emotional regulation and talking through feelings helps kids learn how to handle tough moments.Small tasks = big growth. Simple chores like folding toilet paper or making a welcome basket foster independence and pride.Apologies are powerful. Demonstrating vulnerability through apologies teaches humility and growth.Watch your words. The language we use with our kids can either build them up or tear them down.Create safe spaces. Let your kids know it’s okay to ask for breaks, express pressure, and be heard.Everyday moments are the curriculum. Conversations in the car or around the kitchen table are some of the most impactful learning moments.Quotes: “Being compassionate, authentic, and teachable are characteristics that will go very far—for our kids and for us.”“Every encounter we have, our children are watching.”“Those skills did not just happen overnight. We’ve been working on them for a long time.”“Sometimes we just need to stop and talk instead of disciplining.”“If you had a magic wand, wouldn’t you wish for confidence, kindness, and peace in your home? It’s possible—one small moment at a time.”“You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to do it with intention.”“We want our kids to be on fire for learning—and that starts with us modeling it at home.”Resources & Links:Complete the Home Education with Ease Collective Form Here- your all-in-one community, resource hub, and support system designed to help you confidently educate your children at home—with peace, purpose, and JOY.Home Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join us for more homeschooling tips and inspiration: Home Education with Ease Facebook GroupContact Christine - Ready to take the next step and discuss an individualized learning plan for your child? EduPlay Learning Experience Form Learn with Ms. Christine - Check out the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel for engaging videos with Ms. Christine: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsConnect on IG:

In this episode, Christine Furman, your home education expert, reflects on the deeper purpose behind her homeschooling journey. She shares real-life examples from her family—especially her children Ella and Alex—that illustrate the values she hopes to instill through home education. From problem-solving and character development to patience, perseverance, and peace, Christine discusses what truly matters beyond academic skills. This episode will encourage you to take a step back and consider the legacy you're building with your children—one that lasts far beyond worksheets and lesson plans. Takeaways: Homeschooling is about more than academics—it’s about character, problem-solving, and nurturing your child’s identity.Letting kids struggle is a gift—those moments build lifelong resilience and critical thinking.Life lessons come in ordinary moments—car rides, bedtime chats, and helping a friend.Character is revealed in reflection—like when Alex made a choice months later to make something right.Instant gratification is common today—but we can teach patience and perseverance through intentional parenting.Screens aren’t the enemy—but mindful limits create space for rich conversation and learning.You don’t need to do it all at once—peace comes when we simplify, focus, and let growth unfold naturally.Quotes: "Every child is uniquely perfect.""There's no checklist in a workbook that says, 'Did your child struggle and problem-solve today?' But those moments are everything.""Sometimes, we need to let our kids wrestle with a challenge to build confidence and independence.""With hard work, perseverance, patience, and prayers—anything is possible.""Screens are not our go-to. Conversations happen at bedtime, in the car, while waiting—they’re sacred moments.""Homeschooling gives our kids space to blossom into who God called them to be.""We don’t just want smart kids; we want thoughtful, kind, resilient kids."Resources & Links:Home Education with Ease Collective - a community for moms to cultivate peace, clarity, and joy while receiving support and guidance every step of the way. Check out Expanding Your Brilliance - Christine is a published author and is featured in Expanding Your Brilliance: Creating Effortless Abundance while Navigating Business and MotherhoodHome Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join us for more homeschooling tips and inspiration: Home Education with Ease Facebook GroupContact Christine - Ready to take the next step and discuss an individualized learning plan for your child? EduPlay Learning Experience Form Learn with Ms. Christine - Check out the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel for engaging videos with Ms. Christine: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsConnect on IG:@mschristine.furman

In this heartfelt episode, Christine Furman gets vulnerable and transparent about the deeper reasons behind her decision to leave the traditional classroom, embrace entrepreneurship, and homeschool her children. Prompted by powerful questions during a recent book anthology project, Christine shares how digging into her “why” unearthed surprising truths—ones rooted in family, protection, wholesome education, and faith in her mission. She also opens up about her struggles with self-doubt and the transformative power of leaning into purpose over perfection. Whether you’re a homeschooler, educator, or passionate parent, this episode will inspire you to uncover your own “why” and embrace your family’s unique journey.Takeaways: Dig deeper into your “why”—you might be surprised what you find beyond the surface.Self-doubt can sneak in, even when you know your purpose. Overcoming it starts with awareness.Protecting your child’s innocence is a powerful and valid reason to homeschool.A strong family connection is foundational—and homeschooling can strengthen it.Entrepreneurship and homeschooling are tools to align your life with your values.Being in control of your child’s education means you can meet their needs in real and meaningful ways.You are your child’s best advocate. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek support.Quotes: "I wanted to be home with my kids, but the deeper reason was that I wanted to protect their innocence for as long as I could.""What I do and my why for it all is to revolutionize education.""I’m the biggest cheerleader for everyone else—but when it came to my own work, I was stuck in self-doubt.""Homeschooling lets me teach what matters most to my children—skills for life, not just passing a test.""When I walked away from the classroom, I didn’t just start a business. I stepped into my calling.""Our world is full of distractions trying to pull families apart—my mission is to bring them closer.""Everything I needed was already inside me—I just had to stop asking for external validation."Resources & Links:Check out Expanding Your Brilliance - Christine is a published author and is featured in Expanding Your Brilliance: Creating Effortless Abundance while Navigating Business and MotherhoodHome Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join us for more homeschooling tips and inspiration: Home Education with Ease Facebook GroupHome Education with Ease Collective - a community for moms to get the support and guidance you are looking for every step of the way. Contact Christine - Ready to take the next step and discuss an individualized learning plan for your child? EduPlay Learning Experience Form Learn with Ms. Christine - Check out the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel for engaging videos with Ms. Christine: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsConnect on IG:@mschristine.furman

In this heartwarming episode of Home Education with Ease, host Christine Furman welcomes a very special guest—her daughter, Ella Furman! Ella, who just turned 10, shares her experiences, insights, and thoughts on being a homeschool student. She shares why she loves homeschool, the flexibility of their learning schedule, the skills she has developed along the way and her entrepreneurial aspirations. Christine and Ella discuss their favorite learning activities, the freedom of homeschooling, and how their educational journey has fostered creativity, independence, and a love for learning. The conversation highlights the benefits of homeschooling, including personalized learning and the ability to explore interests deeply. They also touch on the importance of encouragement and support in education, as well as future goals for their educational endeavors.Takeaways: Flexibility is a major benefit of homeschooling. Students can take breaks when needed, move at their own pace, and even incorporate travel and life experiences into their education.Multi-sensory learning is powerful. Ella shares how using a mix of visual, auditory, and hands-on learning makes lessons more effective and enjoyable.Homeschooling fosters entrepreneurship and independence. Ella’s love for business and creativity has flourished through homeschooling, allowing her to start her own pet-related business.Life skills are embedded in the homeschool experience. From cooking and sewing to problem-solving and time management, real-life skills are an essential part of learning.A homeschool environment allows for individualized learning. Each child’s strengths and challenges can be addressed in a way that makes sense to them.Socialization happens everywhere. Whether at the grocery store, at a park, or with family, homeschooled children have meaningful interactions that contribute to their development.Every moment is a learning opportunity. From field trips to everyday tasks, education isn’t confined to books and classrooms—it’s a way of life.Quotes: “I just like everything about homeschooling!” – Ella Furman“We get to take breaks when we need them and spend extra time on lessons if we want.” – Ella Furman“Kids in traditional school might be missing out on the experiences we have every day.” – Ella Furman“I love that I get to learn through different ways—videos, games, writing things down, and hands-on activities.” – Ella Furman“One of my favorite things is the flexibility to do things other kids might not be able to—like having a birthday party in the middle of the day!” – Ella Furman“I want EduPlay Learning to be worldwide so that every kid can have a great education.” – Ella Furman“My goal is to set you up for success, no matter what you choose to do.” – Christine FurmanResources & Links:EduPlay Learning Spring Activity Kit – Packed with science experiments, reading activities, crafts, math challenges, and more! Get it here: https://eduplaylearning.com/product-details/product/springactivitykit Spring Adventure Journal (FREE Bonus!) – A printable journal for nature observations and scavenger hunts (included with the Spring Activity Kit purchase)Home Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join us for more homeschooling tips and inspiration:

Join Christine Furman on the latest episode of Home Education With Ease as she explores hands-on springtime activities to engage young learners outdoors. Christine shares creative ways to teach science, math, reading, and sensory skills through gardening, weather observation, and insect study. Discover the benefits of nature journaling and storytelling while embracing seasonal changes. Christine also introduces the EduPlay Learning Spring Activity Kit, perfect for busy parents seeking effortless, engaging learning experiences for their children. Stay tuned for a special bonus: a printable Spring Adventure Journal to help kids document their nature discoveries! Tune in to ignite curiosity and foster a love for spring learning adventures.Takeaways: Gardening is a great way to teach kids science and math – from planting seeds to measuring growth.Weather tracking helps kids understand their environment – use a rain gauge or track storms to make learning hands-on.Bug and insect observations can be fun and educational – kids love learning about butterflies, bees, and other creatures.Nature journaling enhances literacy skills – encourage kids to draw, write, and describe their outdoor experiences.Spring is the perfect time for outdoor math – counting flowers, identifying shapes, and measuring perimeter in gardening.Creative writing can be inspired by nature – haikus, storytelling, and poetry are more meaningful when kids observe the world around them.The EduPlay Learning Spring Activity Kit makes learning easy – pre-planned activities allow families to enjoy learning without the stress of preparation.Quotes: “It's all about making this learning exciting for our kids and effortless for you.”“Go outside and explore and play and allow them to just be creative with it. Allow them to gather different materials and things from outside and just create.”“Going outside and writing or just sitting there with your eyes closed and listening and observing all that's around you and then writing about it.”“Make it hands-on and make it something that they remember.”“Giving them that sense of accomplishment… I planted that in the dirt and I watered it and I put it in the sun and I watched it grow.”Resources & Links:EduPlay Learning Spring Activity Kit – Packed with science experiments, reading activities, crafts, math challenges, and more! Get it here: http://www.eduplaylearning.comSpring Adventure Journal (FREE Bonus!) – A printable journal for nature observations and scavenger hunts (included with the Spring Activity Kit purchase)Home Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join us for more homeschooling tips and inspiration: Home Education with Ease Facebook GroupContact Christine - Ready to take the next step and discuss an individualized learning plan for your child? EduPlay Learning Experience Form Learn with Ms. Christine - Check out the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel for engaging videos with Ms. Christine:

In this episode, Christine Furman explores the importance of teaching foundational learning skills first before advancing to more complex concepts. She reflects on conversations with parents and clients that reaffirm her belief that a strong foundation in early learning leads to greater confidence, comprehension, and success. Christine shares practical strategies, real-life success stories, and insights from her Reading FUNdamentals Program to help parents foster a love for learning in their children. She also discusses the pitfalls of rushing learning, the importance of natural skill development, and how play-based learning creates a stress-free, effective approach.Takeaways: Fundamental skills build confidence: Mastering phonemic awareness, number sense, fine motor skills, and early comprehension creates a strong learning foundation.Rushing learning can backfire: Kids who are pushed too fast may memorize without truly understanding, leading to struggles down the line.Play-based learning is powerful: Hands-on, multi-sensory activities engage children in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.Confidence leads to curiosity: When kids feel capable, they are more willing to take on new challenges and explore learning independently.A safe learning environment fosters growth: Kids need the freedom to make mistakes, ask questions, and learn at their own pace without fear of failure.Quotes: "Our kids are learning every single day, even when we don’t realize it—through play, through conversation, and through real-life experiences.""Memorization without comprehension doesn’t lead to lifelong learning—understanding the ‘why’ behind concepts is key.""Confidence in learning comes from mastery, not from rushing ahead to the next level.""When we create a safe space for learning, our kids feel empowered to make mistakes, ask questions, and try again.""Education is about more than just academics—it’s about raising problem-solvers and critical thinkers who can navigate life’s challenges."Resources & Links:EduPlay Learning Reading Programs – Learn Your Letters, Reading Fundamentals, and more email me at christine@eduplaylearning.com for more infoEduPlay Learning Contact Info: DM Christine on social media or fill out the EduPlay Learning Experience Form to discuss personalized reading support for your child.Join the Home Education with Ease Facebook Group to share your child's favorite books and reading traditionsSubscribe to the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsVisit www.eduplaylearning.com to explore our programs and subscription kits.Connect on IG:@mschristine.furman@eduplaylearning Join the Conversation:"If you found today’s episode helpful, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and join our growing community in the

In this episode of Home Education with Ease, Christine Furman dives into two of the most common questions she receives from parents: "What if my child doesn’t like to read?" and "What if my child struggles to read?" Christine shares her unique approach to reading instruction, emphasizing the importance of confidence-building, phonics, sight words, and incorporating play into learning. She also discusses how the current education system often pressures children to read too early and provides practical strategies to make reading fun and engaging. Tune in to hear her insights, personal experiences, and the inspiration behind her individualized reading program that helps children develop strong literacy skills in a way that suits their learning style.Takeaways: Confidence is Key: Many children struggle with reading not just because of difficulty with words, but because they lack confidence. Encouraging and supporting them is crucial.Play-Based Learning Works: Learning through play, especially for younger children, fosters natural reading development without unnecessary pressure.Reading Exposure Matters: Surround your child with books, from storybooks to magazines and road signs. The more they engage with text, the more comfortable they become.Phonics + Sight Words: A balanced approach using both phonics and sight words is the most effective method for teaching reading.Graphic Novels Are Valuable: Books like Dog Man and Captain Underpants can help struggling readers develop fluency and comprehension.Audiobooks Are a Great Alternative: If sitting and reading is a challenge, listening to audiobooks can still build literacy skills.Let Kids Choose Their Books: Giving children the autonomy to pick their own reading materials makes reading more engaging and enjoyable.Quotes: "Forcing kids to read before they’re ready can be stressful for both parents and children. Let’s make reading enjoyable!""Incorporate reading into play—children learn best when they’re engaged and having fun.""A child’s reading confidence is just as important as their reading ability. Confidence can change everything.""If your child is choosing books—whether it’s a graphic novel or a magazine—lean into their interests to build a love for reading.""We need a balance of phonics and sight words, not one over the other. A strong foundation in both is essential."Resources & Links:EduPlay Learning Reading Programs – Learn Your Letters, Reading Fundamentals, and more email me at christine@eduplaylearning.com for more infoEduPlay Learning Contact Info: DM Christine on social media or fill out the EduPlay Learning Experience Form to discuss personalized reading support for your child.Join the Home Education with Ease Facebook Group to share your child's favorite books and reading traditionsSubscribe to the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsVisit www.eduplaylearning.com to explore our programs and subscription kits.Connect on...

In this special Dr. Seuss Day episode of Home Education with Ease, host Christine Furman celebrates the magic of reading and its impact on children’s literacy development. She explores the importance of reading with kids, fun and engaging ways to make reading a habit, and shares interactive Dr. Seuss-inspired activities. From bedtime stories to road trip storytelling, Christine offers practical tips for incorporating reading into daily routines. She emphasizes how reading boosts literacy skills, fosters emotional connections, and enhances imagination. The episode includes practical tips for making reading fun and engaging, as well as themed activities related to Dr. Seuss. Christine encourages parents to establish a daily reading habit and lead by example to instill a love for reading in their children.Takeaways: Reading Boosts Literacy Skills – Regular reading strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, and language development. Ask kids questions about the story to deepen understanding.Make Reading a Fun Adventure – Use different voices, act out scenes, and encourage storytelling to engage children in books.Create a Reading Routine – Set a daily reading goal, whether it's bedtime stories, reading during errands, or snuggling up on the couch with a book.Encourage a Love for Learning – Inspire kids to read for enjoyment by providing interesting books and leading by example.Reading Strengthens Bonds – Sharing books builds emotional connections and quality family time.Dr. Seuss-Inspired Activities – Engage kids with themed snacks, crafts, and rhyming games to celebrate Dr. Seuss Day and Read Across America.Reading Confidence Matters – Encouraging discussion, asking questions, and incorporating literacy skills naturally into daily life helps build a child's reading confidence.Quotes: "Reading is more than just an educational activity – it’s a bonding experience that sparks imagination and sets kids up for lifelong success.""Dr. Seuss made reading fun, silly, and adventurous – and we can do the same with our kids!""A simple 10-15 minutes of reading a day can make a world of difference in your child's literacy skills and confidence.""When we ask kids questions while reading, we're teaching them valuable reading strategies without them even realizing it!""The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go." – Dr. SeussResources & Links:EduPlay Learning Dr. Seuss Collection – Fun activities, crafts, and literacy tools EduPlay Learning Reading Programs – Learn Your Letters, Reading Fundamentals, and more email me at christine@eduplaylearning.com for more infoJoin the Home Education with Ease Facebook Group to share your child's favorite books and reading traditionsSubscribe to the EduPlay Learning YouTube Channel: EduPlay Learning - Activities for KidsVisit www.eduplaylearning.com to explore our programs and subscription kits.Connect on IG:@mschristine.furman

In this episode of Home Education with Ease, host Christine Furman welcomes Marta Sauret Greca, the Money Flow Strategist, to dive deep into financial mindset and family money management. Building on last episode's discussion about teaching kids financial literacy, this conversation tackles the emotional and energetic aspects of money. Marta shares personal lessons, debunks common money myths, and offers practical strategies for creating a balanced financial approach within families.Takeaways: Reframing Money Mindset: The way we talk about money influences our children’s beliefs—avoid phrases like "money doesn’t grow on trees" and instead empower them to understand financial flow.Finding the Balance: Avoid the extremes of financial scarcity or overindulgence; instead, teach children a balanced approach to money.Understanding Financial Cycles: Money ebbs and flows—having savings and financial strategies in place helps create stability.Relationship with Money: Treat money like a relationship—respect it, understand where it’s going, and nurture it like a valued partner.Scheduling Family Finance Meetings: Sit down regularly with your spouse or alone to review your finances, check investments, and set goals.Teaching Kids Smart Money Habits: Encourage saving from an early age with practices like putting a portion of earnings into a savings account or investing in a Roth IRA.Visualizing Financial Success: Use journaling and visualization techniques to cultivate a positive money mindset and attract financial abundance.Eliminating Financial Shame: Debt is not inherently bad—acknowledge past decisions and shift focus to solutions rather than guilt.Look for Hidden Money: Unclaimed money might be sitting in state databases—search for it and put it to good use.Join the Free Money Challenge: A fun and interactive way to change your money mindset and find unexpected financial abundance.Quotes: "Your kids are God’s children too—He will provide for them beyond what you can do alone." - Marta"Respect money like a relationship—when you pay attention to it and nurture it, it works for you instead of against you." - Marta"Shift your focus from financial shame to financial empowerment. Every step forward counts!" - Marta"Your brain doesn’t know the difference between reality and visualization—use it to your advantage when setting financial goals." - Marta"Stop ignoring your finances—set a date with yourself, your partner, or a financial expert and start looking at the numbers." - MartaResources:In this episode:Join Marta’s Free Money Challenge: https://www.facebook.com/groups/femalemillionaires Connect with Marta: https://www.instagram.com/themoneyflowstrategist Episode  60 - Raising Money-Smart Kids: Fun & Practical Budgeting LessonsJoin the Private Facebook Group: EduPlay Learning - Home Education with EaseFree Home Education Vision Plan: https://christinefurman.com/...