2018 Workshop Schedule

Workshop Listing Format:

Room Location
Title of Workshop
Name of Speaker
Name of Company
Workshop Description

10:30 AM to 11:30 AM – Friday, July 27, 2018

The Best Environment for Learning Science
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
Many homeschooling parents feel inadequate when it comes to helping their children learn science. As a result, they think that the their students should eventually go to school to learn it. In this talk, Dr. Wile draws on various sources to demonstrate that in fact, homeschool is the ideal environment for learning science. He discusses studies that indicate homeschool graduates excel in science, shares his own personal experiences with homeschool graduates who are studying science at the university level, and gives some case studies that illustrate his point. He also surveys the various options homeschoolers have at their disposal for teaching science, especially at the junior high and high school levels.

Developmental Education: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Ashley Wiggers
Room 106
Children are developmental. They will reach certain milestones at varying ages and it is our job to make sure we’re matching expectations with an understanding of how children learn and progress. Building the right foundation will enable you and your children to enjoy the process of learning. Come hear why this homeschool graduate and national magazine editor became a lifelong learner.

Seven Life Breathing Phrases to Speak To Your Kids
Alice Reinhardt
Room 107
What grade do you give yourself in communicating with your children? What grade would they give you? Don’t let poor communication stand in the way of your relationship with others, especially your children. Learning to communicate is a life-long process and most of us have never been given the proper tools to improve or direct communication away from harmful words. Hurtful communication actually damages relationships in the long term and negatively affects your homeschooling. Applying these seven phrases can be an incredible tool in your homeschool toolbox.

Evaluating Organizational Tools/Techniques & Embracing the Mom Book
Tracee Wood
Room 108
It doesn’t take long to realize that we could spend as much money on organizational tools, planners, etc as we do the curriculum. It also doesn’t take long to realize that we never seem to fall completely in love with what any ONE product has to offer. It’s time to identify and adapt the system that will grow with you without costing a fortune.

The Heart of Hospitality, Building ministry from our homes
Melanie Adams
Room 109
As homeschoolers, our life ministry should be central to our homes. This practical workshop will inspire and teach you the why’s & how to’s to create a heart of hospitality in your family so you can impact your world!

Art Can Be A Way To Have Fun With Your Child
Dwayne Walker
Room 110
Together, we will learn how to craft your art lessons in a way where you and your child can enjoy it and you can feel comfortable that you are improving your child’s skills and creativity along the way. If you are looking to engage in a more hands on classroom while bonding with your kids and teens then this session is for you.

Teaching through Books and Movies
Samantha Shank
Room 112
Who says learning has to be boring and from a textbook? From documentaries to modern-day Oscar winners, film can be a valuable learning tool if done properly. In this workshop, Samantha shows you great ways to incorporate literature and film into history, science, and more. She also teaches how to turn a read aloud or a family movie night into character-building lessons! You’ll leave this class with a list of historical movies for kids and a guide for your own movie studies.

Challenging Your Children Through Active Learning By Combining Movement With Academics!
Suzanne L. Stone
Room 113/114
Learn how to showcase your teaching skills by adding more fun and excitement with innovative physical activities that also include academic learning!

How Much Does Homeschooling Cost?
Jennifer Henn
Room 115/116
Is the best education an expensive education? How can a family live off one income? Are online and hybrid schools worth the cost? Jennifer quit a well-paying job to stay home with her kids while her husband worked at a blue color job. She shares advice from her 18 years of experience as a mom determined to make it work.

Creating and Using Interactive Math Journals
Andrea Thorpe
Room 117
An interactive math notebook is an inexpensive, homemade, and customizable resource used to help students of all grades improve math comprehension. In this workshop, participants will see the sections of an interactive math notebook and will learn how to use the notebook before, during, and after math lessons. In addition, participants will learn how to organize and personalize an interactive math notebook. Finally, participants will be shown where to find free and inexpensive resources for interactive math notebooks.

How to Start a Homeschool Group
Andrea Hall
Room 118
So you’re homeschooling and you’re worried about the big S question…SOCIALIZATION. You’ve looked at the groups around but you can’t seem to find one that works for your family. Have you considered starting your own homeschool group? In this session Andrea Hall will share how she started South Cobb Homeschoolers which has now become EPIC Homeschool Network, Inc., a nonprofit designed to enrich, enhance, and empower home education in the community. Learn how you can start your own and get support from the network.

Thriving As a Highly Sensitive Person
Beth Ellen Nash
Room 119
Are you or your child one of the 15-20% of the population with a highly sensitive temperament who experience sensory information and emotions more intensely? As a highly sensitive person herself, Beth Ellen Nash understands how this sensitivity can be overwhelming when not understood, but can also be a great blessing. This workshop will help you understand the highly sensitive person in your world as well as provide strategies to incorporate this sensitivity more effectively and positively and to focus one’s energies where it is important.

11:45 AM to 12:45 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

Taming the Techno-Beast – Parenting in the INTERNET Age
Todd Wilson
Room 105
X-Boxes, Game-Cubes, the INTERNET, Faecbook, and iPhones have changed the way we live, have fun, and interact. Children quietly glued to game monitors for hours have replaced laughter and creativity. They beg to play, whine when they can’t, and even lie about the time they’ve spent on “the gadget”. Teens and pre-teens spend most of their waking hours texting, chatting on Facebook, or ‘tweeting’ on Twitter. Today’s latest-breaking technology becomes tomorrow’s obsession, demanding more time, attention, and sacrifices. Technology has become a powerful tool and ‘everyone is doing it’…but maybe you feel like you’ve lost control in your own home. Does the chill down your spine tell you that something is terribly wrong? Do you feel like a beast has invaded your home, but you don’t know how to handle it? If so, then join me as we talk together about the timely topic of taming the TECHNO-BEAST!

Creating Winning Transcripts
Charlotte Ellard
Room 106
The current Coordinator of Homeschool Admission for Berry College and a mother who has helped her 10 college children apply successfully to over 25 different colleges, Charlotte shares what makes a good presentation for college admission and scholarships. Transcripts can be daunting, but don’t have to be. Learn what you definitely need and what you might need, depending on the school of your choice. Sample transcripts and links to some of the many helpful resources available.

Teach Excellence without Oppressing Your Child
Cynthia L. Simmons
Room 107
Teach Excellence without Oppressing Your Child – All of us want our children to work hard and achieve. However, it’s easy for parents to push too hard and break the child’s spirit. This class outlines a healthy approach to child rearing that encourages excellence.

Introduction to Sensory Integration Theory and Sensory Approaches in Treatment
Sarah Gewanter, MSSW, Dir.
Room 108
This session will provide an introduction to the sensory integration theory, including a review of the sensory systems. The behaviors and characteristic of sensory integration dysfunction will be described and its influence on daily life activities. An overview of the range of sensory approaches and the therapists who provide these approaches will be discussed. Information and resources will be shared. Who provides what and what a parent can do at home with their child. Approaches to be discussed include: physical/kinesthetic: tactile and vestibular, visual, auditory, olfactory and gustatory including bio-medical and sensory diet intervention strategies.

Online Courses: Best Practices to Success
Dale Gamache
Room 109
Online courses are a great tool to teach the courses that you don’t feel comfortable or competent teaching. Your child needs to be prepared for a different type of learning experience. This talk will focus on what the parent should look for in an online course, what types to avoid and how to guide your child during the course to assure them a successful completion.

Once Upon a Life: Helping Your Child Uncover Their God-given Life Purpose One Story at a Time
Grace Dyson
Room 110
Students are often asked what they want to be when they grow up. Instead of asking this question to DISCOVER life purpose, let your child’s life stories and events UNCOVER clues to life purpose. This topic covers various ways to keep track of your children’s abilities, activities, and interests. The workshop will cover the principles in Grace’s book: “Lifebook! Picks Up Where the Baby Book Leaves Off.”

Ten Ways to Prepare Your Middle Schooler for High School
Daphne Nicely
Room 111
Let’s dive into and discuss how to prepare your middle schoolers for high school.

Experience Excellence in Writing
Rachel Rist
Room 112
Discover how to teach students of all ages to write stories, reports and essays with style using the award-winning Excellence in Writing.

What Mattered Most: Recollections of a Homeschool Graduate
Ashley Wiggers
Room 113/114
It can be difficult to keep the big picture of homeschooling in mind amidst the trials of everyday life. Ashley will share about what really makes a difference in the end, from the perspective of a homeschool graduate. She will speak to common concerns on the hearts and minds of parents and bring encouragement for the journey ahead.

How to Homeschool Your Teens for Home Business
Rhea Perry
Room 115/116
If there is an entrepreneur in your house, traditional school may not meet his or her needs. Entrepreneurs are leaders. They think differently; they act differently. They need a different type of leadership education that will prepare them to make an impact in their world. In this session, you will gain vision for encouraging your children to develop their natural abilities and become self-motivated, self-educating leaders who create home businesses that serve God and man.

Cultivating Grace: Finding Joy in Motherhood
Lara Molettiere
Room 117
This session is Christian encouragement for homeschool moms on finding the joy in the everyday, how to break out of overwhelm traps, identifying the things that are often neglected, and practical ways to avoid homeschool burnout to bring joy and grace back into your home and homeschool.

Study Smarter, Not Harder
Susan Ison
Room 118
This workshop will provide an overview of the Victus Study Skills System with an introduction to some pertinent skills participants can use immediately. Studying is something all students are expected to do, but seldom are they afforded the opportunity to learn to perform this important task. Victus Study Skills System is a systems approach to study, not just isolated skills individual components to be mastered, but rather a way of thinking about study. This system of study has helped improve thousands of students in organization, time management, goal setting, note taking, test taking and reading comprehension.

Is Math Straining your Relationship with your Children? (Let’s Identify the Trouble Spots)
Tom Clark
Room 119
Join Tom Clark, founder of VideoText Interactive, and author of “Algebra: A Complete Course”, and “Geometry: A Complete Course”, as he offers an entertaining and educational session designed to help you discover the reasons behind the difficulty, on several of the traditional trouble spots in math. Topics discussed will be determined by the audience, and may include division of fractions and multiplication of decimals (using those mindless rules), long-division, story-problems, positive and negative numbers, and numerous others, all of which seem to indicate that Mathematics is just naturally “difficult”.

1:00 PM to 2:00 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

Teaching Elementary Science Using History as a Guide
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
There are two main ways that science is taught today. The first method, called the spiral approach, teaches a wide range of topics every year, and students spend a little time on each topic. However, every few few years, the topics are revisited, and students learn them in more depth. This method produces a high level of recall but is generally boring for students, as they feel that they are repeating a bunch of material unnecessarily. The second method, called the immersion approach, has students spend all semester (or even all year) on a single topic. Students learn that topic in depth and then move on, never revisiting the topic again. This is less repetitive, but it produces lower recall, and students tend to learn the later topics better than the earlier topics, because they mature as time goes on. In this seminar, Dr. Jay L. Wile discusses a different method for teaching science in the elementary years: covering science topics chronologically. Science was learned in a definite, chronological sequence as early scientists developed ideas that were tested and improved by later scientists. If science is taught this way, students cover a wide range of topics each year and then revisit many of them as they were improved by later scientists. This has a lot of similarities to the spiral approach, but when students revisit a topic, it is not just repetition with a little more depth thrown in. The student learns the topic in the context of a new scientist and his improvements on the idea. This produces the high levels of recall that the spiral approach produces, but it is more interesting to the students. It also gives students a more realistic view of how science is done in the real world.

Conquering the Fear of Homeschooling
Misty Bailey
Room 106
Conquering the FEAR of Homeschooling Homeschool mom fears, we all have them. In this session, Misty discusses common fears homeschool moms have and how they can conquer those fears and gain back their joy. Topics discussed will include overcoming the fear of failure, special needs, gaps in learning, high school, and much more. You CAN homeschool, and you can do it successfully. You just need to overcome the fear that is holding you back. This session can help you do that!

Play, a Child’s Work
Alice Reinhardt
Room 107
Do you give yourself and your child permission to play or is it seen as a waste of time and lack of discipline? Studies are showing that play is critical to a child’s development and intelligence, yet we struggle writing that down in the lesson plan book. It isn’t just a break or relief from serious learning, play IS serious learning. Come learn how to play, when to play and why it matters.

The HomeSchool Vault
Tracee Wood
Room 108
“Lions and Tigers and Bears – oh my.” These may have been the things that caused Dorothy and her friends to second guess their travels along the yellow brick road but for the homeschooling mom – it’s Papers and Tests and Plans – huge sigh. This workshop will center around focusing it all into one place, deciding what to keep, how to keep it, and finding it all when you need it. It is the reference book of your homeschool journey and the wish book of the things to come; and, it’s all practical and no “fru-fru.”

The Homeschool Edge: How homeschooling successfully prepares students for college
Jordan Crenshaw
Room 109
This session will discuss best practices to incorporate in throughout junior high and high school years as students set their sights on college.

Practical Solutions for Underlying Language Problems that Impact Learning
Rhonda Davis,Ph.D,CCC-SLP
Room 110
Your child’s got a diagnosis, now what? This session will present basic language development across childhood as well as everyday strategies parents can do with their children with learning difficulties. Many children with learning problems (e.g., autism, dyslexia, cognitive delay, etc.) have underlying language problems. When these skills are addressed, other areas often improve. Be encouraged as you learn practical tips you can use in your homeschool today.

Preparing Your Teen for College  (It is easier than you might think!) 
Pat Wesolowski
Room 111
How can a parent be sure their students are prepared for life after high school?  When do you begin preparing and what all do you need to do in order to be sure your students are prepared for college? With intention and well-planning, it is not difficult to homeschool your high school student with confidence.  Come and find out more about dual enrolling, transcripts, scholarships and college testing. Do not rule out private colleges that come with high sticker prices because there are many ways to bring down the cost of college! You can do this!

Maximizing Potential with Montessori Teaching Tips
Amanda Crawford
Room 112
Montessori is a unique educational approach that nurtures a child’s intrinsic desire to learn. Montessori education is right for children of any age; it is personalized learning that focuses on the whole child and advancing his or her development. Now it is easier than ever to bring this proven method into your homeschool! Discover the power of the Three Period Lesson, multi-sensory teaching, and the importance of presenting concepts and terms in the concrete before moving the child to the abstract. Introducing Montessori methods as early as possible puts her on the right path to becoming a confident, self-motivated learner.

What I Would Stress Less About- Reflections from a “Retired” Homeschool Mom
Renee LoDolce
Room 113/114
As homeschool parents we seem to put a lot of pressure on ourselves and stay up nights worrying about if we are doing “right” by our children, if they will be able to get into a “good” college, or if they will end up being successful. Believe me, I have shed many a tear and have had many sleepless nights throughout my homeschooling career! But as a mother of a child who earned his college degree at the age of 17, and a homeschooling veteran I can now look back and realize that my stress and worry was unfounded. Come and learn what I have gleaned over the years.

Boring? Create Interest and Motivation Through Unit Studies, Projects & Field Trips
Jennifer Henn
Room 115/116
Teach your kids executive function, socialization, and use a variety of learning styles while utilizing Unit Studies, Projects, and Field Trips. Jennifer will give several examples that her adult children still remember as being the best of school times. Don’t miss out because you think you’re not creative, there are lots of ways to go about this!

Mission Transition: Helping Kids Move From Elementary to Middle School
Andrea Thorpe
Room 117
Even in the homeschool environment, the transition from elementary school to middle school can be a challenging one. During this workshop, parents will learn about the academic, physical, social, personal, and spiritual changes children experience as they move into the middle school years. In addition, parents will be given specific tips they can use to help their children transition in these five areas.

How to Think and Talk Math!
Dennis DiNoia
Room 118
What if math was its own language? Learn to speak math similar to the way you learn to speak other new languages. Learn the basic foundations on which the math language is created and how to see Algebra skills in basic math. This workshop will give participants wanting to expand their thinking to higher levels of math using basic operations they already know. Learn how the “secrets” of mental math and how to apply them in everyday situations. Participants access a common math language that can be used at any grade level.

Are you holding your kids back from their creative genius? Let’s find out.
Dwayne Walker
Room 119
Join creative professional, Dwayne Walker, as he demonstrates the advantages of children growing into a creative genius, the signs that you are/aren’t holding back from your child’s creativity, and how you can implement creativity into your curriculum.

2:15 PM to 3:15 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

Lies Homeschoolers Believe
Todd Wilson
Room 105
Your house is a disaster, your kids seem out of control, and you wonder how you’ll ever make it through another day of school. Your “get up and go” has “gotten up and went”. You used to think homeschooling was the best thing since sliced bread, but now you’re feeling like burnt toast. Take heart – you’re not alone! No one homeschools because it’s easy. You do it because you believe it is best. But there are times when you need to be reminded once again why it’s best. Join me as we do just that. You’ll laugh and be encouraged in the toughest job you’ll ever…love.

Managing the Multitudes  
Charlotte Ellard
Room 106
A mother of 12 homeschooled children, Charlotte is eager to share how she managed to homeschool with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and teenagers–all at the same time! Focusing this workshop on keeping life positive, simple, productive and mostly in order! Come be encouraged and glean some practical knowledge from a mom who not only survived 20+ years of toddlerhood but has actually enjoyed raising her 12 toddlers and is now helping with her 7 grandchildren while homeschooling her last 2 teenage boys.

Homeschooling the child with learning difficulties
Sunette Payne
Room 107
Homeschooling the child with learning difficulties. As parents we often have great goals in mind for our children, we want them to become the best unique individuals that they can be. We want them to be happy and successful in their academic pursuits, socialization, and general development. But what can we do to help them in this, or in fact is there anything that we can do to globally help them to strive toward their potential? Please join Sunette as she discusses neurological organization and how to progress and propel your homeschooler with learning difficulties to reach their goals and potential.

Mom, We’re Graduating
Tracee Wood
Room 108
Once we become parents our job is pretty clear. We are often reminded that our goal is to prepare them for “leaving the nest;” we understand the task and work diligently down the list of things to do, teach, and learn. Then it happens – you’ve been hit like a freight train; you spent all of this time preparing your child but no one prepared you. This mom’s heart knows, all too well, the emotional roller coaster. Good News – the coaster can stay on track, you can guide the twists or turns, embrace the ride, and step out smiling (from the inside out).

Ten Benefits of Extracurricular activities
Elizabeth Bauman
Room 109
In this workshop, Elizabeth will cover the reasons why extracurricular activities are important and how they help prepare homeschooled students for college and career.

So You Want to Be a Firefighter
Ben Davis
Room 110
God has a special calling for each of your children. It may be full-time ministry, or it might be engineering or homemaking. Any legitimate job can be a vocation, and we should not put down certain types of work as less respectable. In this session, you’ll learn how to prepare your children through all of the academic subjects for whatever God calls them to do.

Grammar and Dialectic and Rhetoric, OH MY! A Classical Education Made Approachable
Julie Melendez
Room 111
As a modern parent, are you intimidated by the prospect of building a classical, Christian education for your family? Let’s take a look at a blueprint for the tools of learning! Learn how you too can build your family’s home-centered, classical education using the building blocks of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

Early Reading Instruction: Reading Effortlessly from the Beginning
Dee Tadlock
Room 112
Every year there is a small percentage, but a fairly large number, of three- and four-year-olds who learn to read excellently without ever being instructed. When you ask the parents how this happened, they shrug their shoulders and say, “I have no idea. She got up last Saturday and started reading.” These children’s parents, by accident, created the kind of environment required to enable their children’s brains to painlessly and seamlessly figure out how to make excellent reading happen. Come to this presentation and learn how to create such an environment on purpose.

Homeschooling in Georgia—Legislative Update & Challenges that Remain
Mary Beth Morris
Room 113/114
Be informed! Join us for this session as GHEA representatives share about recent developments related to homeschooling that have occurred in the Georgia legislature, as well as state agencies. In addition to sharing a brief history of accomplishments, new laws, and recent legislation, we’ll discuss challenges that remain and how each of us can do our part to protect the homeschooling freedom that we enjoy in Georgia. Learn how GHEA is working for you and the issues that our homeschooling community is facing. Q&A to follow presentation, time permitting. (2)

Planning for High School… and Beyond
Charlotte Seewald
Room 115/116
Charlotte will present information about planning a high school curriculum for your homeschooled child that meets college admission requirements. Families with teens and preteens please come to this helpful workshop that will make planning easier and allow your child to explore their academic interests!

Yes You CAN Teach Art in Your Homeschool
Tricia Hodges
Room 117
Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, you can share simple and beautiful art times and grow a love of art with just a few, frugal supplies. Short art lesson from Nana included and no glitter required.

Spelling Tips and Multisensory Strategies for Memorizing Spelling Words
Beth Ellen Nash
Room 118
Does your child struggle to spell? Are you a natural speller, but your child is anything but? Beth Ellen will share different strategies that are most effective for learning spelling “rulebreakers,” “outlaw families,” and high frequency phonetically regular words. She will share dozens of ideas for using visual, tactile, and kinesthetic means to learn those tricky spelling words. (Many of these ideas can be applied to other memorization intensive subjects as well, such as math facts.)

Teaching Mathematics as a Language – What Gets Lost in the Translation?
Tom Clark
Room 119
Did you know that Mathematics has parts of speech and sentence structure, just as does any spoken language? Did you know that understanding the “grammar” of Mathematics greatly helps student understanding of problem-solving and applications? In this workshop, Tom Clark, founder of VideoText Interactive, and author of “Algebra: A Complete Course”, and “Geometry: A Complete Course”, clearly and humorously demonstrates this quality of mathematical language. At last, you will truly understand the roles of all types of mathematical symbols, and you will see how easy it is to translate between Mathematics and English, enabling you to improve your understanding, and teaching, of “story problems”, at all levels.

3:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

Why Homeschool THROUGH High School
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
Homeschooling parents are often faced with a difficult decision when their children reach high school age. Typically, the parents feel they are just not able to teach the more demanding courses that are required at the high school level. As a result, many parents feel that they must send their children to school for a proper high school education. In this seminar, Dr. Jay L. Wile, a former teacher at both the university and high school levels, will explain why such a decision is not in the best interest of the student. Using data gathered from many different sources, including his own experiences, Dr. Wile demonstrates that homeschooled students are better academically prepared and better socialized than their publicly- or privately-schooled counterparts. These facts allow Dr. Wile to make a compelling case that the best thing for a homeschooled student is to stay in homeschool, regardless of the parent’s academic abilities.

Failure Free Homeschooling: Setting Your Homeschool Life Up for Success
Lesli Gibbs
Room 106
Whether you’re new to the homeschool world, or have been at this adventure for a while, do you still have the fear that you will fail your children? Learn how to set your homeschool up for success, and how to easily avoid the most common homeschool mistakes that can lead to failure in your schooling.

Relationship Renovations: Communicating with Teens
Mary Aldrich
Room 107
Do you feel like no matter what you say, you can’t seem to connect with your teenager? In this workshop, we will discover why we don’t feel heard and two techniques for improving conversations, plus one game changing bonus tip for improving any relationship!

The Athletic Recruiting Process for HomeSchool Athletes
Tracee Wood
Room 108
Navigating the athletic community can be challenging. For a homeschool family, there is no network of school officials to direct the path or guidelines – but there is also no one better than you to take charge and set the course. Learn how to handle recruiting, correspondence, resources, and more. It isn’t too early to start.

Student Led Learning
Dennis DiNoia
Room 109
This hands-on workshop will give parents strategies, guides and the outline for having their children be self directed learners who have ownership of their learning and assessments. This session will cover portfolio development and presentation skills for students. The session will also give students what they need to assess their own work in a meaningful way discovering their own unique learning potential.

College Out of the Box: the Alternative Methods to Earning Your College Degree
Renee LoDolce
Room 110
Figuring out where to go (and how to pay for) college can be a stressful time. Join me as I show you options that maybe you haven’t thought of before. We’ll discuss alternative ways to earn credits (it’s not just CLEPS & dual credits anymore!), traditional versus nontraditional routes to a degree, compare costs and time required, uncover little known ways to earn scholarships, and much more. If you have a student Junior high- high school age, you need to attend to find out how they can begin earning college credits doing the work they are already doing! My son started at age 12 and got his accredited associates degree by age 15 and his bachelor’s by 17 (and for just a FEW thousand dollars!). College Out of the Box is the new way to get your college degree in less time, for less money, and with NO student debt!

Controlled Chaos- A day in the life of a homeschool mom
Amber B Brown
Room 111
Come to learn how I, a homeschool mom, incorporate healthy living and the use of essential oils into our every day life. A workshop full of practical tips for essential oil use in your home.

Brain Based Strategies for Improving and Eliminating Neurodevelopmental and Learning Disorders
Dana Hernandez
Room 112
Brain Balance is an after school program utilizing the latest brain research to help children with Learning Disorders like ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyslexia, and Autism to function better academically, socially and behaviorally. Research shows that children with these labels have areas of brain underconnectivity, especially between the right and left hemispheres. One of the two hemispheres of the Brain has become STRONGER AND FASTER and the other has become WEAKER AND SLOWER. When this happens the two hemispheres become functionally disconnected and are unable to communicate effectively. The characteristics of the stronger, faster hemisphere become amplified while the characteristics of the weaker, slower hemisphere are muted. This lack of balance translates into the noticeable academic, social and behavioral problems that these children exhibit. Come Learn how the Brain Balance Program™ identifies and improves areas of Brain Underconnectivity to give your child their best chance at success.

Am I Doing Enough? How to Evaluate Student Progress
Jennifer Henn
Room 113/114
Do you wonder if you’re assigning enough work? Or maybe too much? Learn to evaluate your child so you’ll know when to move forward or revisit an area. Learn how to grade projects and writing assignments. Jennifer will also show you how to combine subjects and help you create easy record keeping.

Working Homeschool Moms: How you can be a Working Mom Pro
Andrea Hall
Room 115/116
You want to homeschool, but you need to work too. Can you do it all? Yes you can! In this session you will discover how a mom of three, teaching at two different online schools, director of a nonprofit and owner of a learning solutions company finds time to balance work, home and school. Buckle your seat belts, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!

When am I ever going to use this math?
Gene Pease
Room 117
Gain confidence in your skills and learn ways to apply the math you are teaching in your every day life. We’ll talk about teaching math to students who like to be outside, inside, listen to music, write and read, and even students who just like to work math problems!

How To Succeed In Chemistry And Other Applied Sciences
Brenda Esselman
Room 118
Chemistry and applied sciences require a different learning and reading comprehension skill than other subjects like english, history, or social studies. This workshop will expose tips, techniques and strategies that will help students in the sciences get an A+ in class. Students and parents should attend this workshop to begin to understand the new/different skills that are needed to be successful in chemistry/engineering/physics as one progresses toward upper level high school science and then onto college. Plus there will be a fun chemistry demo to watch during this time with LearnChemistryBetter.com Last year this was a packed room with people sitting on the floor…..come and see/learn.

Your Child Can Love History Using Notgrass
Donna Ellenburg
Room 119
Notgrass History offers history, government, civics, and economics curriculum for fifth grade through high school. Our curriculum gives students a rich, meaningful study from a Christian worldview. Notgrass History is easy to use for the teacher and the student. We provide narrative lessons, full-color photographs and illustrations, primary source documents, and hands-on activities to create engaging learning experiences.

4:45 PM to 5:45 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

College Financial Game Plan
Stefan Belhomme
Room 104
How parents can get the maximum amount of money for college and pay as little, out-of-pocket, as possible.

Your Questions Answered – A Panel Discussion with 4 Veteran Homeschoolers
Jennifer Henn, Misty Bailey, Andrea Thorpe, Jordan Crenshaw
Room 105

What’s Next? – Helping Your Children Choose the Best Route After Graduation
Todd Wilson
Room 106
For the last twelve years, you’ve probably felt the tension of “what’s next?” for your children. You hoped the dilemma would solve itself, but it didn’t. In fact, there are all sorts of homeschool graduates who are stuck in the “what now zone” or were discouraged from traveling a particular path. It’s time to put your fears aside, look the cap and gown in the eye, and take an honest look at life after graduation. There is NOT a one-size-fits-all solution and the pressure from family members, peers, and experts can seem dizzying. Should they go to college or try a college alternative, do a gap year, start their own business, stay at home, get a job, travel the world…join a monastery??!! Don’t be afraid. God has a plan for your child, and part of that plan is that He’s given them YOU to help guide them into their next phase of life. Join Todd Wilson as he takes a bold and straightforward look at “Life after Graduation.” We’ll look at the options, discuss the pros and cons, and take the FEAR out of graduation…remembering along the way that every child’s path is different.

Talk so They Will Listen, Listen So They Will Talk”
Daphne Nicely
Room 107
Building and maintaining a relationship of trust and respect throughout the years that increases influence and impact.

Adapting not to Survive but to Thrive
Tracee Wood
Room 108
Their are countless curriculum options, enormous amounts of online supplements, and everyone has a suggestion. Nonetheless, you haven’t found the right fit, overwhelmed was the step before this one, and you seem to be in perpetual search mode. Take a deep breath and learn to make the curriculum (whatever curriculum) work for you. Your HomeSchooling journey isn’t about surviving the subjects but thriving in the experience. It’s time to manage the material; you have permission (even encouragement) to participate in – not just proctor – your family’s journey.

Spelling Success Achieved in Cooperation with How the Brain Learns
Gretchen Roe
Room 109
Spelling You See’s research-based methods empower students to develop skill and confidence in spelling through an effective, engaging, low-stress learning experience using four activities: listening, reading, copywork, and dictation. Join us to learn how to teach spelling without stress or drama.

Your Personal Relationship with Your Daughter: How to Get it Back on Track
Sam and Jasmine Doyle
Room 110
Is the relationship with your daughter broken? Is she pulling away from you? Do you wish that she can share with you her thoughts and feelings? Were you close and now you are distant? In this session, Sam and Jasmine will encourage you by giving you specific steps that you can take to start bridging that gap between you and your girl.

Online Dual Enrollment with the University System of Georgia
Randy Blackmon
Room 112
Workshop covers: Why the online dual enrollment option may be the right choice. Details about Georgia’s Electronic Core Curriculum, eCore. Move On When Ready, Georgia’s non-need based grant review. University System of Georgia eCore affiliate institutions, 22 colleges and universities. Next steps for parents and students.

Hope for the High School Years
Ashley Wiggers
Room 113/114
Are you struggling with teaching your high school student? Hope for the High School Years is a down to earth talk with a homeschool graduate about the ups and downs of life with a high school student. If you are in need of a little encouragement and some proof that everything will work out for the best, please join Ashley for an uplifting workshop that will leave you with a new understanding of how to successfully homeschool through high school.

Common Mistakes Homeschoolers Make
Beth Ellen Nash
Room 115/116
While of course you want what is best for your child, homeschoolers sometimes unintentionally sabotage their child’s academic progress. Are you making any of these mistakes? Is your homeschool suffering from any of these too’s–too dependent on mom, too lax (backing off instead of backing down to a level where they can be successful), too late (it’s never too late, but early intervention is best), too much the same as what hasn’t worked, or too little time on academics? In this workshop, we’ll talk about these mistakes and how to avoid them.

What’s the “Matter”? The Answer to High School Chemistry
Richard Risbrudt
Room 117
The thought of their children taking high school chemistry in the near future can create a lot of questions, concerns and anxiety for homeschool parents. Here are just a few that we will discuss in this workshop: “Will the chemistry course we decide on prepare my child for the rigor and structure of college chemistry?” “What should we do about lab experiments, chemicals and lab equipment?” “It’s been 25 years since I took chemistry, does anybody know a teacher that would be willing to help in teaching our child or group? (Even one or two days a week!)” “If I buy a chemistry teacher’s edition and a workbook will that be good enough?” This workshop will answer questions like these and many more!

Cultivating Christian Creativity
Pierre Wooten, MBA
Room 118
We all have heard “Think outside the Box.” However, what does that really mean? In this presentation, I will share a secret to completely remove the box and tap into the creativity God intended for you and your students to experience. Interesting enough, we will start with answering the question “Name some of the greatest leaders you know?”

Simplifying Algebra for the Hesitant Learner (When are we going to need this stuff anyway?)
Tom Clark
Room 119
Algebra is the study of relations (equations and inequalities). It is therefore essential that students completely and conceptually understand the basic concepts necessary to solve them. In this workshop, Tom Clark, founder of VideoText Interactive, and author of “Algebra: A Complete Course”, and “Geometry: A Complete Course”, will help you to develop an inquiry approach which is applicable to all basic relations. You will discover the analytical questions students need to ask, in order to “undo” all of the complications they may encounter, when solving equations and inequalities.

6:00 PM to 7:00 PM – Friday, July 27, 2018

Rhythm & Writing: The Handwriting Program
Nikki Wilson
Room 104
Rhythm & Writing is a fun, new, exciting handwriting program, developed by an Occupational Therapist, that teaches kids to write letters, the RIGHT WAY!!!! Through the use of catchy phrases and rhymes, kids learn and remember how to form letters correctly. This workshop will teach the attendees how to use the program effectively.

How Are Homeschool Graduates Doing?
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
Dr. Wile became involved in homeschooling because while he was teaching at the university level, his best students were homeschool graduates. Since then, he has expected homeschoolers to become the true leaders of their generation. To investigate whether or not his expectation is coming true, Dr. Wile tracked down several homeschooled students who are now adults and learned what they are doing. In this talk, Dr. Wile tells you what he learned. You will be amazed at what these young adults are doing and how they have already impacted the world. He also shares the results of a large study that has been done on homeschool graduates. If you are wondering whether or not homeschool graduates can make a difference in the world, you should definitely listen to this talk!

Dream BIG
Todd Wilson
Room 106
Everyone has dreams – you, your spouse, and your children, but for every dreamer a dream killer lurks in the shadows. They’re the ones who constantly remind you why you shouldn’t homeschool, have more children, be a stay-at-home mom, start a new business, or take that step of faith God’s telling you to take. Dream killers grew up with you. They live in your house and sometimes they even…are you. Their intentions may be good, but if you listen to them, you will miss out on God’s best for your life. Join Todd as he helps you revive old dreams, fan the dreams in others’ lives, and urges you to throw caution to the wind and set sail for the adventure of a lifetime.

Grandparents, Homeschooling Parents and Grandkids; How to Make it All Work
Alice Reinhardt
Room 107
The role of grandparenting in this homeschooling journey is somewhat like uncharted waters. For some, grandparents are confused or antagonistic. Other grandparents offer the wrong kind of support or opinion, even to the point of control. Parents may struggle with boundaries and expectations and might not know how to incorporate this generational tool into their homeschooling. From a homeschooling mom and grandmother, you can learn how to establish a healthy common ground that is a win-win for your homeschool experience.

Homeschool without Lines and within Boundaries.
Tracee Wood
Room 108
HomeSchooling, though growing in popularity, is not the cookie cutter education; no 2 families are alike and the needs are as individual as the families. Setting yourself and your home education journey up for success can be as simple stepping outside the lines and establishing workable boundaries. Learn more about identifying your family’s lines and boundaries.

Foreign Language Learning At Home:Is It Achievable and If So….HOW?
Dale Gamache
Room 109
One of the most challenging subjects to teach at home is Foreign Language.
In this talk Dale Gamache will explore how to successfully learn language at home from early childhood thru high school AND BEYOND!

Christian Filmmaking 101
Justus McCranie
Room 110
Why are films so powerful? How does a film impact the culture? In this talk, we learn just how powerful films can be, and how to use them for God’s glory.

The Power of the Entrepreneurial Mindset (open to students, educators, and parents)
Marianna Brashear
Room 112
The Power of the Entrepreneurial Mindset workshop engages, educates, and inspires by equipping educators, parents, students and co-op leaders with the important message of ethical entrepreneurship, strong character, and the power of free enterprise. Students will feel empowered as they learn invaluable economic concepts, the importance of personal responsibility, and how the world really works. Best of all, workshop participants will receive a free copy of I,Pencil and other fun prizes! Discover how ethical entrepreneurship and sound economics can change your life no matter what your personal and professional path may be! Sponsored by the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE.org/homeschool)

Educating the Creative Learner
Lori Adams
Room 113/114
Does your child love to imagine, create, build, and dream, yet struggle when it’s time to sit down and “do school”? Can your child draw for hours, see the potential in all things, crave time to discover, construct, design? While all children are unique, the creative child is truly one of a kind! This action-packed workshop will provide insight into your child’s mind, equip you with ways to make “traditional” school tasks more appealing and productive while helping you generate some unusual ways to work on core skills, and inspire you to work with your child’s natural, creative, out-of-the-box leanings!

Schooling at Home While Working at Home
Misty Bailey
Room 115/116
Are you thinking of working from home, but aren’t sure where to start? There are so many options out there that the idea of working from home can be mind-boggling. This is especially true when you also have a houseful of kids to educate. Misty has been where you are, and in this session, she is going to walk you through the process of working from home, step by step. From finding a job to getting hired to managing your time, house and family, everything will be covered and when you leave the session you will have an idea in mind to begin your work from home career.

Actionable Career Advice for Homeschooled Teens
Sara Morrison
Room 117
Homeschool students are uniquely positioned to jumpstart their professional development due to their self-driven and flexible schedules. Come learn how to leverage your status as a homeschooler to build an awesome career and get project ideas you can start on today to create a “digital footprint” of your skills, interests, and experiences. Want to learn how to thrive in the professional world today and hear success stories from other homeschool graduates? This session is for you.

Goal Setting – A Family Event
Dennis DiNoia
Room 118
Goal setting is often thought of as a great idea and something everyone needs to do but we rarely do it and when we do, we usually lose track of the goal along the way. In this workshop, goals are brought to life through creation and conversation. Everyone participating will create a goal and a visual display for that goal during the workshop. This process can be done with family members over and over again as well as with other homeschool groups as activities. The process is created in a fun and fast paced style with everyone having an opportunity to create and share their goal that will leave each participant inspired by their goal and by the goals of others.

Can Mom or Dad Really “Teach” Story-Problems? (And why would you want to?)
Tom Clark
Room 119
In this entertaining and instructional workshop with Tom Clark, founder of VideoText Interactive, and author of “Algebra: A Complete Course”, and “Geometry: A Complete Course”, you will develop, and learn how to use, the five analysis questions that must be asked to solve all story problems, whether in simple arithmetic or in Algebra. The correct answers to these questions are guaranteed to lead students to the relation (equation or inequality) they must solve in order to find the answer to the problem.

10:30 AM to 11:30 AM – Saturday, July 28, 2018

What to do When Your Plan Doesn’t Go According to Plan
Todd Wilson
Room 105
We like things nice and neat, orderly, and with a predictable outcome, but most of the time OUR plans don’t ‘come together’ as we hoped. Instead, our plans often fall apart, disintegrate right before our eyes, and leave us dumbfounded and stunned. I’ve talked to plenty of homeschooling parents who were sold a plan. They followed the plan and then later stood before me with tears in their eyes because the plan “didn’t come together.” “We did everything THEY said to do,” they say. “We didn’t have TV…we homeschooled…we ate organic…we only wore dresses…we sheltered and protected….we practiced courtship…they played the violin…we emphasized the classics…we never missed family devotions…we emphasized purity…we birthed our children at home…we had a home business” and on and on the list goes. They feel betrayed, angry, and lost….and their children are starting ‘tell all’ websites!!! I have to admit that several years ago when I heard their sob stories I inwardly wondered what they had done wrong. I believed that they must have gotten the WRONG plan…or didn’t carry the plan out according to the instructions. And while some of that may be true, I know NOW that sometimes our plans don’t come together because God has a DIFFERENT PLAN. Join me as we take an honest and humorous look at plans, why they fall apart and what to do when they have.

College and Faith – What’s the REAL Story?
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 106
It is almost universally accepted that when a student goes to college, he or she is more likely to give up the Christian faith. In this talk, Dr. Jay L. Wile shows that the data say just the opposite: those who attend college are less likely to give up the Christian faith than those who do not attend college! Dr. Wile discusses the reasons for this, and he also discusses strategies that will help you and your college-bound student decide what type of college and what situations at college will promote a vital spiritual life as well as a rewarding academic experience. If you are concerned about how your child’s college plans will affect his or her Christian faith, you should definitely attend this talk.

Praying for Your Child
Alice Reinhardt
Room 107
Praying without ceasing is a no-brainer for moms.  The situations our children find themselves in keep a breath of prayer on our lips.  Whether it is praying for protection, healing, wisdom, revelation or salvation, our children need our prayers. And whereas praying for our children is instinctual as a mom, sometimes knowing how to pray leaves us still feeling anxious even as we pray.  The disciples asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray.”  We can learn from His advice in praying for our children. 

Goals & Grace: How to Navigate being a Work-at-Home Homeschool Mom
Lara Molettiere
Room 108
Learning how to set good goals for your home, business, and homeschool is imperative to staying on course as a work-at-home homeschool mom. Find out how to thrive while successfully homeschooling and providing for your family.

The Importance of Teaching Entrepreneurship and Sound Economics (geared toward parents and educators)
Marianna Brashear
Room 109
The Foundation for Economic Education (FEE) Courses and Workshops engage, educate, and inspire students by equipping teachers, parents, and co-op leaders with everything they need to deliver the important message of ethical entrepreneurship, strong character, personal responsibility, and free markets. These free resources are designed to be delivered by non-economists using interactive, hands-on activities and guided discussions which cultivate leadership skills, speaking and interview skills, critical and creative thinking. Discover free workshops such as Economics in One Day and Entrepreneurship in Action as well as opportunities to receive full scholarships to FEE’s sought-after summer camps and other opportunities available to homeschool students. Sponsored by the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE.org/homeschool)

College Financial Game Plan
Stefan Belhomme
Room 110
How parents can get the maximum amount of money for college and pay as little, out-of-pocket, as possible.

Why or What Courses Your Middle Schooler Needs to Complete?
Daphne Nicely
Room 111
What courses are required for middle schoolers in the state of Georgia and what options are available?

Stretching Your Budget
Charlotte Ellard
Room 112
The Ellards know firsthand about when things are “cheaper by the dozen” and how to stretch a budget for 12 children. Most homeschoolers are one income families working hard to maximize their resources. Charlotte Ellard shares insight on how she and her family save money and “gather up the fragments so none is wasted” without labor intensive methods.

The Importance of Understanding Learning Styles
Ashley Wiggers
Room 113/114
Our goal as homeschoolers is to teach as effectively as possible, so it can be stressful when the lessons we teach aren’t understood, or our children seem frustrated. Come to this workshop to learn how to overcome obstacles that may limit your ability to teach, and your children’s ability to understand. Shared from the perspective of the student, Ashley will provide tips that can help your children achieve their greatest learning success.

Leveraging Your Child’s Creative Passions Towards Success
Dwayne Walker
Room 115/116
Join the creative professional, Dwayne Walker, as he unveils tips and tricks that helped himself, as a homeschool student, go from tracing pictures in a coloring book to working with celebrities and large companies on creative ventures before he was 18 years old. You will learn how steer your child’s creative passions in the right direction and get a chance to participate an open discussion about struggles you’re facing implementing art/creativity into your curriculum.

If You Are Paying For Content, You’re Paying Too Much: How to Use the New Information Environment To Save Money Homeschooling
David Mugg
Room: 117
There is not a single topic or question that you can think of, that, within 5 clicks of an initial Google search, you can’t know as much as someone who has sat at the feet of an expert for an hour. And those searches are FREE! (An expert’s hour is not!) There are things worth paying for, but the content itself is rarely one of them. Learn how to leverage the new information environment in order to save money on materials!

Make Homeschool a Lifestyle
Cynthia L Simmons
Room 118
Should you have a special classroom in your house and say the pledge of allegiance every morning? Do you follow the schedule of the public school system? When you start to teach at home, these are questions you will face. This class explains how to structure your school so it becomes part of life and leads to life long learning.

Prime Numbers – The Gateway to Algebra and Beyond!
Dennis DiNoia
Room 119
This hands-on workshop will show how to use prime numbers to simplify both numerical and algebraic fractions, greatest common factors, least common multiples, simplifying roots and determining patterns in sequences. This workshop is for anyone who is pre-algebra to pre-calculus. The workshop is fast paced and fun whether you are a middle school student, high school student or parent. This is a must for parents of younger children preparing for pre-algebra!

11:45 AM to 12:45 PM – Saturday, July 28, 2018

Ten Tips to Improve Your Homeschool Year
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
Dr. Wile has been working with homeschoolers for more than 20 years. As a result, he has been able to learn from the pros. He also homeschooled his daughter from the time she was adopted until she graduated high school. Blending his personal experience with the things he has learned from veteran homeschoolers, Dr. Wile discusses ten things you can do to make your homeschool year more enjoyable and effective. Whether you are a new homeschooler or an experienced one, this talk will help you make the most of your homeschool year!

Take the Mystery Out of Homeschooling: A Workshop for New Homeschoolers
Jennifer Henn
Room 106
Whether you are considering homeschooling a five-year-old or bringing your older child home from public or private school, this class answers your questions. How do I choose curriculum? What about socialization? Am I doing enough? Can my child get into college? And more…. This will be an informative workshop, bring your questions.

Brain Based Strategies for Improving and Eliminating Neurodevelopmental and Learning Disorders
Dana Hernandez
Room 107
Brain Balance is an after school program utilizing the latest brain research to help children with Learning Disorders like ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyslexia, and Autism to function better academically, socially and behaviorally. Research shows that children with these labels have areas of brain underconnectivity, especially between the right and left hemispheres. One of the two hemispheres of the Brain has become STRONGER AND FASTER and the other has become WEAKER AND SLOWER. When this happens the two hemispheres become functionally disconnected and are unable to communicate effectively. The characteristics of the stronger, faster hemisphere become amplified while the characteristics of the weaker, slower hemisphere are muted. This lack of balance translates into the noticeable academic, social and behavioral problems that these children exhibit. Come Learn how the Brain Balance Program™ identifies and improves areas of Brain Underconnectivity to give your child their best chance at success.

Homeschooling on Empty
Sharon Fisher
Room 108
Are you feeling like you’re being pulled in every direction? Let’s look over some biblical principles for relationships and practical tips for home management, grocery shopping and meal prep, organization, and homeschooling.

Living a Simple Life – Being Minimalists to live as Maximalists
Melanie Adams
Room 109
Homeschooling can be stressful. Focusing on living a simple life, making the majors the majors and doing without the rest can help you have a peaceful home.

Help Your Child Learn and Grow by Addressing Nutrition and Food Allergy Needs
Rhonda Davis,Ph.D,CCC-SLP
Room 110
Is your child struggling and you don’t know why? Come learn strategies parents can do to improve nutrition and potentially improve learning skills. This session addresses research regarding attention, brain development, learning issues, and how they are influenced by nutrition and missing micronutrients. Health and learning are also impacted by underlying food allergies/sensitivities. Come learn how you can influence your child’s learning through practical changes to nutrition.

The Art of Conversation: Leading your middle and Highschoolers through the Dialectic and Rhetoric
Julie Melendez
Room 111
Are you seeking advice on homeschooling through high school or how to nurture lifelong learning with your kids? Do you desire to make education more than just information and facts?  Conversations are the best way to do it!  While modern education emphasizes silence, lecture, and multiple-choice tests, a classical education encourages discussion, application of knowledge, and a communal quest for wisdom found only through conversation. Come hear about how rich conversations strengthen and unify the family, provide accountability for the good habits that make learning possible, and enliven the academic content that guides students to become virtuous adults.

From Mount Olympus to Mount Sinai: A Christian Case for the Pagan Classics
Ryan Weston
Room 112
The Bible consistently reminds us to have our understanding renewed, or washed, by the Word. So why do some curriculums include a study of pagan mythology? Why spend time reading about Greek or Roman gods when we could be doing something “Christian”? Join us for a discussion on why you should include reading the pagan classics in your schooling.

5 Home Business Projects that Teach Financial Literacy and Create Income
Rhea Perry
Room 113/114
In this insightful session taught by an award-winning Internet business owner and veteran homeschool mom of 7, you will learn the fundamentals of five proven home businesses your family can start part-time that could possibly bring dad home like they did! You’ll also learn the four different ways to work and why some of your children never finish a job.

Fitivities…….More Than Just A Game!
Suzanne L. Stone
Room 115/116
Motivate your children to improve their math, reading and spelling skills with brain break ideas that include physical activity. Be prepared to play and have fun in this one of a kind workshop session!

Helpful Homeschool Habits
Tricia Hodges
Room 117
What about the roaming toddler? Just how DO you teach multiple ages? Learn how to use basic habits as the ‘bones’ of your day. These simple habits with help you accomplish a basic school day and get food on the table. With babies, toddlers, stacks of school books, hungry mouths and even towering teens, these are the habits that will help you see results.

Learning Challenges That Often Show Up Together
Beth Ellen Nash
Room 118
For kids who struggle, there are often many overlapping challenges that may confuse and confound the parent trying to help. Each underlying cause of concern needs to be addressed. These include dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), dyscalculia (math), language-based learning disabilities (receptive and expressive language), phonological and phonemic awareness, auditory processing, visual processing, attention, memory, and other executive functions.

Teaching Mathematics with Art (or is it Teaching Art with Mathematics?)
Tom Clark
Room 119
Can your child’s future really be boiled down to something as simplistic as whether they are right-brained, or left-brained? Surely, as homeschooling parents, we want our children to believe that they are capable of using “both sides” of their brains. In this educational and entertaining workshop, we will explore the natural and logical connections between Mathematics and Art. We will investigate mathematical principles, and see how they are related to, and illustrated by, artistic applications. Likewise, we will explore several artistic concepts, and see how they are based on mathematical ideas. Of course, throughout, the importance of language and communication will be stressed, as it must play a key role in the understanding of both areas.

1:00 PM to 2:00 PM – Saturday, July 28, 2018

Help! I’m Married to a Homeschooling Mom – Dads
Todd Wilson
Room 105
It’s a fact! The only thing tougher than being a homeschooling mom is…being married to a homeschooling mom! Dad, your wife needs your help. Come join me as we discuss how to support and assist our wives in the homeschooling journey. We’ll also do a lot of laughing, as I encourage men to be encouragers of their homeschooling wives.

Paying for College
Charlotte Ellard
Room 106
With ten children attending college on scholarships over the last 15 years, Charlotte has seen many changes within the college admission landscape, mostly to the advantage of homeschoolers. Valuable insights learned from experience as a parent and as a college financial aid counselor, can encourage families of perspective college students.  Scholarships and hard work can make college possible.

Handling the Ups and Downs of Your Daughter’s Emotions
Sam and Jasmine Doyle
Room 107
Your girl: One day she is full of joy, the next day she is depressed. One day she is hopeful, the next stay she is in despair. One day, her faith is strong, the next stay she is in doubt. Sam and Jasmine will encourage you and will provide to you specific ways that you can not only help your daughter navigate these difficult and emotional times, but to be able to survive the season yourself!

Fractions: From Fear to Fun with RightStart™ Math!
Kathleen MacGregor
Room 108
Do you remember the groans in math class when the word “fraction” was brought up? Well, there is a better and less painful way of teaching fractions! Fractions are, dare I say, fun when they are taught the right way. So, what’s the right way to teach them? Come and discover the beauty and simplicity of fractions using RightStart™ Math.

Yes, You Can!: Handling High School and Beyond
Christine Marsh
Room 109
You may have started homeschooling with a “one year at a time” outlook, or you may have been planning to take this path all along. Regardless, here you are with an upcoming or current high school student! The prospect may seem daunting, and your enthusiasm may be quelled by the lack of or overload of information on how to proceed. Join us as we step back, take a deep breath, and discuss some of the options for successfully moving your student through high school and (gasp!) into the great beyond. We will offer encouragement (you CAN do this!); cover the essential matters of course selection, available tools, and homeschooling methods; address practical steps for the college bound; and hopefully answer many of the question you have as you continue on your journey.

The Accidental, “Not-So-Super-Mom,” Homeschooler
Katie Shuler
Room 110
Katie will discuss the different reasons families decide to homeschool and how Time4Learning can accommodate each family’s needs. She will discuss discovering your child’s learning styles, and incorporating technology and education. In addition, she’ll talk about how you don’t have to follow a particular method of homeschooling, or be super organized all the time, to successfully homeschool.

Helping your disabled teen find their full potential
Tim Samuel
Room 112
Growing up as a teen with disabilities goes beyond physical limitations. But nobody can help them break through their boundaries like a parent can! In this session we will discuss the steps a parent can take to help their child succeed.

Moving from a Checklist to Meaningful Learning
Ashley Wiggers
Room 113/114
Homeschooling offers the possibility to educate in a way that is lasting and meaningful. We don’t have to see it as a list of tasks to be completed. We can see it as the opportunity it is to learn through meaningful discussions, experiences, deep understanding, and the building of relationships. Come to receive practical ideas and listen as this homeschool graduate and author shares about her unique view of education given through the meaningful approach her family took to homeschooling.

Solidifying Your Homeschool: Lessons from Nehemiah
Andrea Thorpe
Room 115/116
We want to create and maintain strong homeschools, but sometimes life’s challenges can chip away at our determination. What happens when we find our homeschool “walls” have cracks or missing sections? In this workshop, participants will use key points from the book of Nehemiah to learn how to repair and rebuild when obstacles such as a full schedule, fear, doubt, and naysayers, attempt to breach the walls of our homeschool.

Homeschooling in Georgia—Legislative Update & Challenges that Remain
Mary Beth Morris
Room 117
Be informed! Join us for this session as GHEA representatives share about recent developments related to homeschooling that have occurred in the Georgia legislature, as well as state agencies. In addition to sharing a brief history of accomplishments, new laws, and recent legislation, we’ll discuss challenges that remain and how each of us can do our part to protect the homeschooling freedom that we enjoy in Georgia. Learn how GHEA is working for you and the issues that our homeschooling community is facing. Q&A to follow presentation, time permitting. (2)

Do You Believe What is True About You? (Facing Personal Fears in Homeschooling)
Alice Reinhardt
Room 118
Titus 1:2 says that God can not lie.  If homeschooling is simply educating our children, why is there so much guilt and frustration on a personal level associated with it?  Where do these lies come from that seem to keep homeschooling moms shackled?  Other moms seem to have it more together than you, including their homes and their kids.  Other mothers are more patient or more disciplined than you.  What are you doing wrong?  What more do you need to do?  Does God even like you?  Been there and done that (and still occasionally do), 38 years of parenting and homeschooling and this mom and grandmother has some important truths to share with you.

Celebrate the Unique You
Renee LoDolce
Room 119
Are you caught up in the chaos of life and the role you hold as someone’s wife, mother, homeschool teacher, co-worker or church member? Are there days where you feel overwhelmed and you feel like you “just can’t do this anymore”? Are you afraid that you won’t be able to teach your children what they need to know? You and so many other parents have had the same thoughts and you are not alone. The “Celebrate the Unique You” workshop is an encouraging talk to parents on how God has made us each unique with special passions and interests and entrusted us with OUR children for a reason. We are not to compare ourselves with others, or get stressed out about whether or not we are “messing up” our children or if we have the skills and knowledge to “do this.” It’s a fun hour to sit back, relax and rest in our “uniqueness”! You will laugh, get encouraged and travel with me on a musical video journey of the homeschooling life!

2:15 PM to 3:15 PM – Saturday, July 28, 2018

“Teaching” the Junior High & High School Sciences at Home
Dr. Jay Wile
Room 105
In this seminar, Dr. Jay L. Wile explains how any parent can help his or her children learn science at the upper levels. As a former University teacher and a former high school teacher, Dr. Wile is a staunch advocate of homeschooling a student all the way through the high school years. He agrees that most parents do not have the ability to teach the high school sciences at home, but he also contends that this is not a problem. By the time a homeschooled student reaches high school, he or she should have the ability to learn independently or with the help of another. Thus, Dr. Wile admonishes the parent to learn the subject right along with the student. With both the parent and the student helping each other learn, an upper level science experience can be equally rewarding for both! In order to help the homeschooling parent plan his or her science curriculum, Dr. Wile provides study timelines for both the science-oriented and the non-science-oriented student. In addition, he discusses the mathematical skills needed in order to maintain the proposed timeline.

Stop Fighting with Your Kids! Five Steps to Less Stress in Your Home
Jennifer Henn
Room 106
“I don’t know how you stand being with your kids all day,” say neighbors and friends. We assure them that we love our kids…but do we like them? Perfect curriculum will not solve attitude problems. I implemented each of these five steps in my home and share from personal stories. Come learn how to get the school work done while maintaining a loving relationship with your children.

Struggling Readers? At last–Something that Works & Works Quickly!
Dee Tadlock
Room 107
Find out why in spite of your best instructional efforts and your child’s cooperation in the learning environment, he (or she) still struggles with reading. More importantly, learn about a unique, paradigm-shifting intervention program that compels the brain to figure out how to make excellent reading happen. Even the most challenged reader can be transformed to an excellent reader in a matter of months–not years.

Overview of Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency and how we can help people with Disabilities Go to Work
Charlie Miller
Room 108
Getting Ready for those Transition years? Know of a Young adult living with a Disability? Wanna go to work but have a Disability? Then this is for you! Come hear about how Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency can help people as young as 14 all the way up too 65!

Multisensory Strategies for Making Language Arts Instruction Effective and Fun
Jennifer Hasser, M.Ed
Room 109
Research shows that when we engage the senses of our students, they are more likely to remember what they learn. In this lively workshop, Jennifer Hasser will provide homeschool parents with multisensory games and activities to make language arts instruction efficient and effective. Regardless of whether your child is a natural reader or one who struggles, you will learn strategies you can put into place immediately to meet your child where they are and bring instruction to life. Come prepared to be inspired and to view language arts instruction in a whole new light! Appropriate for homeschool parents of students of all ages.

Parents as Career Coach: Helping your child navigate career transitions
Grace Dyson
Room 110
Parents are the first real career coach in the lives of their children and young adults. This topic covers the skills and activities to use in this coaching process. The activities covered will help with the transition from high school to college and college to career.

Teaching in a Digital World: How to use Technology in Your Homeschool
Samantha Shank
Room 112
Over the past decade, technology has changed our world. Discover the different ways you can incorporate technology into your homeschool to make learning more engaging for all grades.

Can you re-gift Giftedness? Addressing Homeschooling Challenges of Off the Chart Children
Rhonda Davis, Ph.D, CCC-SLP
Room 113/114
Homeschooling a child who is more than one grade ahead, in one or more subjects (e.g., academic or artistic), is challenging and exhausting. Learn how parents can help their child with the not-so-fun-side of giftedness in areas such as: overexciteability, relationships (e.g., chronological peers, adults, mentors, dating), 2e/twice exceptional learning challenges, and character development concerns (e.g., maturity, perfectionism, and intensity). This session gives parents an opportunity to explore and solve our homeschooling challenges with other parents in a safe environment through guided brainstorming and networking activities.

5 Steps to a Successful Homeschool Day
Misty Bailey
Room 115/116
Homeschool days can be chaotic, how do yours start? Does it involve lost papers? Kids crying? Forgotten lesson plans? Misty has been there and knows what it’s like. If you want more out of your homeschool day, then you NEED this session. 5 Steps to a Successful Homeschool Day will cover: how to have more peaceful homeschool days, days that start on time, and how to create a homeschool routine that works for YOUR family. PLUS…. why it’s important to give yourself grace when things DON’T work out as planned. By the end of the session, you will have a plan in place to start having a successful homeschool day.

Relationship Renovations: Too Busy!
Mary Aldrich
Room 117
Feeling too busy to take care of yourself and others at the same time? Come find out why you can’t seem to get off the hamster wheel of busyness and discover three ways to stay in a calm, joyful mindset.

Dyslexia Outside-the-Box: A Refreshing Perspective on the Flip-side Strengths of Dyslexia
Beth Ellen Nash
Room 118
Struggling to help your child become a confident reader? Is your child’s dyslexia getting in the way of academic success? This fresh perspective into the flip-side strengths of the neurological differences that underlie dyslexia helps us see the strengths that are associated that should be celebrated and embraced along with the challenges that need to be addressed. Left Brain vs. Right-Brain Verbal-Sequential vs. Visual-Spatial Fine Detail vs. Big Picture Discrete vs. Contextual Procedural & Rote Learning vs. Intuitive Reasoning.

Uh, Oh. The Fractions are Moving In!
Tom Clark
Room 119
Since algebraic fractions are a much more complex form than arithmetic fractions, the memorization of the operational techniques generally taught in arithmetic, simply will not hold in Algebra. In this instructional workshop, Tom Clark, founder of VideoText Interactive, and author of “Algebra: A Complete Course”, and “Geometry: A Complete Course”, humorously explains, in detail, the “reasons behind the rules”. Now students can develop a clear, conceptual approach to working with fractions, without a reliance on meaningless shortcuts and tricks, preparing them to be much more successful when working with algebraic fractions.

3:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Saturday, July 28, 2018

Don’t Tell me What you Believe…LIVE IT!
Todd Wilson
Room 105
There’s a lot of talk about Christian worldview. In fact, never before have Christian teens received so much training in developing a proper worldview. But something seems dreadfully wrong, because the truth is…there just doesn’t seem to be much difference between “our teens” and “their teens.” To be honest there sometimes isn’t much different between “our adults” and “their adults.” That’s about to change. Join funny guy, Todd Wilson as he talks about a very REAL, Real Christian Worldview. Now don’t think for one minute that Todd is going to give you a list of do’s and don’ts, because he won’t, but he will challenge you right where you live. Together, we just might change the world. You’re going to want to be here.

Raising a Critical Thinker
Ashley Wiggers
Room 106
Thinking skills are buzzwords in education today—everyone wants to include them in their curriculum plans! In this seminar, homeschool graduate and Editor-in-Chief of Homeschooling Today magazine, Ashley, will explain what thinking skills are and how to incorporate strategies into daily life that will bring great results in your child’s ability to think. Include these ideas to add critical thinking to any curriculum!

Homeschooling Your Gifted or Twice-Exceptional Child
Sara Yamtich
Room 107
Why does it matter if you are homeschooling a gifted child, or a twice exceptional one? Aren’t labels just for schools? Come to this session to learn more about what it means to be gifted (hint: it’s not straight As!) or to be both gifted AND have disabilities such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or other diagnoses. You’ll also learn why knowing about these things will help you to better understand your child and allow them to thrive. Bring your questions and concerns. We’ll do our best to discuss the aspects that are important to you!

Vision and Learning
Joe Rouw, OD, FCOVD
Room 108
Discuss learning-related vision problems and how we diagnose and treat these conditions using optometric vision therapy.

Is Your Child’s Smartphone Making Them Dumb As Dirt?
Dale Gamache
Room 109
With over 35 years in the public school classroom, this talk will focus on the reflections of what the tidal wave of cell phone use has done to the learning process, thinking and reasoning skills, and attention span of young people since the advent of the “affordable” smartphone in 2007. We will explore what we can do to limit the damage and utilize the positive attributes of the technology. Please turn off your cell phone upon entering….JK?

Teach Your Children to Think
Cynthia L Simmons
Room 110
Our society has moved away from Christianity, and parents must prepare children to discern the messages they hear rather than believe everything they read and watch. This workshop explains the cultural changes and gives ideas on teaching reasoning in various subjects and ages.

How to qualify for Georgia’s dual enrollment program
Elizabeth Bauman
Room 112
In this workshop, Elizabeth will discuss how homeschooled students may qualify to earn college credit while working on their high school diploma. She will also provide information to help students who learn differently.

Living a homeschool lifestyle that embraces Adventure and Growth
Lesli Gibbs
Room 113/114
Have you truly embraced the freedom and joy of your choice to homeschool? Break free from the antiquated ideas of the educational system and discover a whole new adventure available to you and your family.

Using “Arts” to enhance STEM – The Creative Advantage
Dwayne Walker
Room 115/116
Join creative professional, Dwayne Walker, as he helps you learn the benefits of implementing creativity into your curriculum, learn how to make the connections between art and STEM, and learn actionable methods to apply to you homeschool.

HeartSchooling: Biblical Discipleship in the Home
Christine Marsh
Room 117
Homeschooling is fabulous for so many reasons, one of the foremost being the possibility of pouring into our children’s hearts on a consistent basis. Being together all the time may be one of the “cons” that people think of when they consider the homeschool lifestyle, but it is truly the opposite. The natural opportunity to implement the Deuteronomy 6:7 principle of teaching our children diligently while we sit, walk, lie down, and rise up, may seem daunting; but the fruit it can bear is rewarding beyond description. Join us for a discussion of the stages of spiritual development across the age spectrum, what it realistically looks like to disciple our children, and simple, practical ways to incorporate this training into your day.

Study Smarter, Not Harder
Susan Ison
Room 118
This workshop will provide an overview of the Victus Study Skills System with an introduction to some pertinent skills participants can use immediately. Studying is something all students are expected to do, but seldom are they afforded the opportunity to learn to perform this important task. Victus Study Skills System is a systems approach to study, not just isolated skills individual components to be mastered, but rather a way of thinking about study. This system of study has helped improve thousands of students in organization, time management, goal setting, note taking, test taking and reading comprehension.

SAT Math – Its Not the Math, its the Question that is Confusing!
Dennis DiNoia
Room 119
Join Mr. D for a mini-SAT Boot Camp. Mr. D will be showing the tips and techniques from his SAT Boot Camps. This workshop will focus on math, the language behind the questions and show participants what they really need to know before taking the math section of the SAT. Find out the words on the test that give tips for how to solve the questions as well learning what formulas you really need to know before the taking the SAT. Students and parents alike will learn how to unravel the questions being asked into something they can solve quickly and easily. These techniques can be used for other testing situations and subject areas as well.

Prior Year Workshop Schedules

2017 Workshop Schedule
2016 Workshop Schedule
2015 Workshop Schedule
2014 Workshop Schedule