Best Meryl Van Der Merwe Podcasts (2024)

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Math Contests Revisited 22:50

13h ago22:50

22:50

290: Math Contests Revisited In this episode of the Homeschooling with Technology podcast, we revisit the topic of math contests with guest Haley Story. This episode builds on Haley’s previous discussion from Episode 243 Math Contests, where she introduced listeners to the topic. Now, with a year of experience running multiple contests, Haley share…

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136: Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschooling 52:07

2h ago52:07

52:07

Whether you're a homeschooler or know someone who is, people often have a lot of questions about homeschooling. What is it? How does it work? How do homeschooled kids differ from their publicly schooled peers? Today, we're tackling all the most frequently asked questions about homeschooling! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website at www.happyhomeschoolerpod…

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Create your own Digital Planner 9:32

8d ago9:32

9:32

289: Create your own Digital Planner In this episode, we discuss various tools and methods to create your own digital planner, perfect for homeschooling or managing other aspects of life. We mention practical and customizable options like Google Calendar, Google Sheets, and Trello, and then talk about more visually appealing solutions using Canva a…

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135: Homeschooling in Pennsylvania (w/ Kathryn Gomes, M.Ed) 51:43

7h ago51:43

51:43

Homeschooling in Pennsylvania is sometimes thought as difficult by people outside of the Keystone State. But for those on the inside? It's a completely different story. Today, we're joined by Kathryn Gomes, M.Ed, author of math curricula and co-host of the Homeschool Works Podcast. A former homeschool student in Pennsylvania and current homeschool …

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Search and Research in the AI era

7d ago

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288: Search and Research in the AI era In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of search and research in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). We reflect on the shift from traditional search engines like Google and Bing to the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other large language models (LLMs). We discuss the pros and …

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Bringing History to Life with Technology 15:56

22d ago15:56

15:56

287: Bringing History to Life with Technology If your children find history boring, here are 8 ideas on bringing history to life with technology Videos: Use YouTube channels, documentaries, and docudramas to visualize historical events. Battle simulation videos and feature movies can also provide an immersive experience. Compare movies to actual hi…

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134: Homeschooling with Technology (w/ Meryl van der Merwe) 56:54

21d ago56:54

56:54

Homeschooling with technology can sometimes be a blind spot for parents. With technological advances happening quicker and quicker, it's easy to get left behind. And that's not even mentioning the concerns related to AI. Today, we're joined by Meryl van der Merwe, host of the Homeschooling with Technology podcast, and she's sharing a little glimpse…

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Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024 17:43

1M ago17:43

17:43

286: Essential Computer Skills for Students in 2024 What are the essential computer skills for students in 2024? These are 5 that are covered in this episode. Understanding Computers and How They Work: Importance of knowing the basics of computers. Learn about binary, algorithmic thinking etc Practical examples and benefits of understanding compute…

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Class Companion: an AI Tool for improving writing

29d ago

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285: Class Companion: an AI Tool for improving writing This episode focuses on Class Companion, an AI tool for improving writing skills. Features of Class Companion: Suitable for all ages and subjects, including English, social sciences, and Spanish. Offers pre-made assignments and the ability to create custom ones. AI provides feedback on organiza…

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133: Our Favorite Homeschooling Books 58:18

19d ago58:18

58:18

Homeschooling is a full-time job, and there's lots of learning that you have to do as the parent and teacher. Today, our hosts share their favorite homeschooling books to make your learning lifestyle fun, easy, and fulfilling! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website at www.happyhomeschoolerpodcast.com If you have any questions or comments, please email us at…

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YouTube Channels to Supplement Your Homeschool History Curriculum 15:45

2M ago15:45

15:45

284: YouTube Channels to Supplement Your Homeschool History Curriculum These are all YouTube channels you can use to supplement your homeschool history curriculum and make history lessons more engaging for students For even more ideas, visit this Facebook post by the Homeschool Historian. The History Channel: Offers a wide range of history-related …

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Online Resources for Learning Computer Science 17:20

2M ago17:20

17:20

283: Online Resources for Learning Computer Science Computer science encompasses more than just coding and programming; it includes history, hardware, software, algorithms, computational thinking, the internet, cybersecurity, and more. Highlights and Resources: ScienceTrek.org A fun and interactive site with various options including games Includes…

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132: How To Start Homeschooling 1:05:34

2M ago1:05:34

1:05:34

It seems everyone these days wants to know how to start homeschooling. With the homeschooling boom still going, it's more important than ever to make sure you get all your ducks in a row before you even start looking at a worksheet. Today, our hosts will take you step by step from what to do before you start, how to make sure you and your kids get …

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Online Olympic Resources for Homeschoolers

2M ago

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282: Online Olympic Resources for Homeschoolers Here are several online Olympic resources that will help you extend the excitement of the games into educational opportunities for your children. From interactive apps and science videos to music lessons and virtual museum tours, we’ve got a variety of tools to make the most of the Olympic season in y…

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Is Writing Proficiency still important in the AI era? 19:27

2M ago19:27

19:27

Episode 281: Is Writing Proficiency Still Important in the AI Era? Guest Jennie Miller, English Teacher at FundaFunda Academy, shares her thoughts on the relevance of writing proficiency in the AI era. Jennie’s Classes: Freshman English: An introductory high school English class focused on learning how to write academically and analyze classic and …

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131: Knowing Why You Homeschool 45:20

3M ago45:20

45:20

Knowing why you homeschool is something that can slip the mind of some homeschooling parents. While we know why we chose to leave public school, we sometimes don't stop to think about the reasons we continue in our learning lifestyle. Today, we discuss the importance of knowing why you homeschool. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website at www.happyhomeschoo…

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Board games that promote STEM skills 26:35

3M ago26:35

26:35

280: Board games that promote STEM skills Guest Haley Story shares board games that promote STEM skills – and she has many ideas for all ages. Why board games? A fun family time Great for summer Also some solo games for screen-free time The kinds of board games she discusses All of these games involve meaningful decisions—no Candy Land! No party ga…

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The Fourth Industrial Revolution and your Homeschool 24:24

3M ago24:24

24:24

279: The Fourth Industrial Revolution and your homeschool This episode discusses how we are living in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution driven by technologies like AI, nanotech, blockchain, Internet of Things, etc. and how this affects our homeschool The 4th Industrial Revolution started around 2011 and is characterized by AI, IoT, nano…

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130: The Importance of Deschooling 41:57

3M ago41:57

41:57

For anyone switching from public school to homeschooling, the process of deschooling is crucial. Deschooling is the step between public school and homeschooling when you take a break to allow your family to adjust to the rhythms of your new learning lifestyle. But it's so much more than that. How long should one deschool? What are some ways to ease…

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Learning with Micro:bit 14:04

3M ago14:04

14:04

278: Learning with Micro:bit Guest Joseph Lemke shares with us how he is learning with Micro:bit and why this is a great way for students to explore coding. What is a Micro:bit? programmable microcontroller, like a tiny computer has built in sensors like temperature, gyroscope, compass, microphone, speaker, touch button, blue tooth antennae to talk…

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Finding and Using Online Classes for Homeschooling Effectively 22:15

3M ago22:15

22:15

277: Finding and Using Online Classes for Homeschooling Effectively In this episode we look at the importance of finding and using online classes as part of homeschooling effectively. Choosing the Right Online Class: Determine your goals and what’s best for your children. Consider your children’s learning styles and your budget. Decide on the level…

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129: Homeschooling in North Carolina 48:28

3M ago48:28

48:28

Today, we embark on another state in our Homeschooling Across America series by learning all about Homeschooling in North Carolina! SHOW NOTES: Visit our website at www.happyhomeschoolerpodcast.com If you have any questions or comments, please email us at happyhomeschoolpod@gmail.com Visit Transcript Maker and get your 14-day free trial! Like our p…

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Replay with Update: Online Stock Market Resources 11:59

3M ago11:59

11:59

This is a replay of episode 95 – you can find the original show notes here. The Stock Market Contest run by show sponsor FundaFunda Academy is happening this summer – June 1 to July 31 for grades 4 – 12. You can register here. The post Replay with Update: Online Stock Market Resources appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.…

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128: Homeschooling as a Single Parent 56:58

4M ago56:58

56:58

Homeschooling your children is a full-time job, which can cause some hesitation with single parents. Whether you're newly single and wondering if you can continue to homeschool or you've been single and wondering if you can start, we're here to tell you that homeschooling can work for you. But you don't need to take our word for it. Today, we speak…

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Making Math Fun: Building a Thriving Homeschool Math Club 25:38

4M ago25:38

25:38

276: Making Math Fun: Building a Thriving Homeschool Math Club My guest, Haley Story, has built a thriving homeschool math club and taught children that math can be fun. Haley was on episode 243 where she talked to us about Math Contests These are the questions Haley answers in this episode: 1. Why did you start a math club 2. How did you get the w…

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Web Development for Homeschoolers 23:36

4M ago23:36

23:36

275:` Web Development for Homeschoolers In this episode, host Meryl van der Merwe interviews Robert Walsh, an experienced web developer and educator from Excalibur Solutions Stem Academy. They dive into the fundamentals of web development, discussing HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and the advantages of learning to code websites over using drag-and-drop bui…

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127: Homeschooling One Child 45:16

4M ago45:16

45:16

Parents of only children face unique challenges when making the decision to homeschool. Some may think that having only one child in the house would make things easier, but when there's no siblings to occupy each other's time, it all falls onto the parent. Add in work and one might just wonder if they can really do it. Well, we're here to tell you …

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Ethical AI Use for Scholarship Success 21:00

4M ago21:00

21:00

274: Ethical AI Use for Scholarship Success Guest, Monica Matthews, a scholarship expert, talks to us about Ethical AI use for scholarship success for your children. Monica was also the guest on episode 117 where she shared tips for completing online scholarship applications that will help students be successful. Find Monica at her website, How 2 W…

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Engaging Online Art History Resources 12:32

4M ago12:32

12:32

273: Engaging online art history resources In today’s episode, guest Holly Egan who teaches the Art History class for teens at show sponsor FundaFunda Academy, shares her favorite online art history resources. Main supplemental websites for her art history class: Smart History -Has over 800 contributors from all over the world https://smarthistory.…

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126: Homeschooling A Big Family 51:39

5M ago51:39

51:39

Homeschooling a big family has its challenges, and its rewards! Today, our hosts share their secrets for efficient and fun learning for the whole family. From tailoring your approach to different learning styles to secrets that will help save your bank account, we can help you be an expert at homeschooling a big family. SHOW NOTES: Visit our websit…

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Vacation Planning with AI 18:36

5M ago18:36

18:36

272: Vacation Planning with AI In this episode one Vacation Planning with AI, Meryl discusses using AI tools like Claude, ChatGPT, Copilot, and others to plan their upcoming summer road trip out west in their Sprinter van. She shares her experience asking the AI for suggestions on stops, restaurants, activities and more along their route through st…

1
Magic Student AI Tools 18:45

5M ago18:45

18:45

271: Magic Student AI Tools This episode covers the Magic Student AI tools from Magic School, following last week’s episode ( (Episode 270 – Magic School AI)) on the teacher tools. Magic School Features to Explore New Google Chrome extension to easily access the tools New YouTube channel explaining how the different products work Can create a class…

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125: How to Teach Current Events 46:25

5M ago46:25

46:25

Many homeschooling parents wonder how to teach current events. Some think it only means teaching politics, some worry about how to talk to their kids about difficult topics. But current events is a much broader topic than most people realize. From local happenings to global news, from sporting events to pop culture touchstones, current events reach…

1
Magic School AI 18:44

5M ago18:44

18:44

270: Magic School AI In this episode we explore a new resource called Magic School AI, which can be used by homeschoolers to help their children retain and understand concepts, and provide engaging ideas for lessons. In this episode we look at the tools for teachers (ie would be used by the homeschool parent). Next week we will look at the tools fo…

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Teen Podcasters Share Their Journey 16:37

5M ago16:37

16:37

269: Teen Podcasters Share Their Journey In this episode, host Meryl van der Merwe interviews Laila Alvarez and Damien Segovia, two homeschooled teen podcasters, who share their experience starting and running their own podcast called “IKR?!”. Topics Covered: What inspired Laila and Damien to start a podcast The name and focus of their podcast “IKR…

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124: Homeschooling In California 49:49

6M ago49:49

49:49

Homeschooling in California has the reputation for being difficult, but that couldn't be further from the truth! While every state will have its pros and cons, California gives lots of freedom to its homeschooling parents. Today, we sit down with a homeschooler from California to discuss everything you need to know about homeschooling in California…

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Importance of critical thinking skills in navigating social media

6M ago

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268 : Importance of critical thinking skills in navigating social media Guest Stephanie Simoes from Critikid.com talks about the Importance of Critical Thinking Skills in Navigating Social Media and how to teach our children these skills. Key Points: Critical thinking involves the ability to distinguish between logical and flawed reasoning, underst…

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123: Project-Based Homeschooling 49:57

6M ago49:57

49:57

Project-based homeschooling is getting more and more popular, and there's no wonder why! By engaging your student's interests and encouraging their curiosity, you not only shape them into a motivated self-learner, but you also allow them to learn a wider variety of things than you might otherwise, using set curricula. Join us today as we discuss ev…

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Comparing AI Assistants 19:21

6M ago19:21

19:21

267: Comparing AI Assistants In this episode you will find me comparing AI Assistants – depending on your needs your favorites may be different to mine, so I suggest you try them all out too!. Just as you probably have a favorite supermarket, you will likely have a favorite AI assistant after you try some of the popular ones out. I am using the fre…

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Teaching students to use Tinkercad

6M ago

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266:Teaching students to use Tinkercad Robert Walsh from Excalibur Solutions Stem Academy explains the why and the how behind teaching students to use Tinkercad. What is STEM? Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Why does my child need STEM education even if they aren’t interested in a STEM career? Children do not know what they will w…

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122: How To Teach Astronomy 41:16

6M ago41:16

41:16

Astronomy is tied into many subjects homeschoolers may be studying. Whether history, mythology, or navigation. But it also exposes your children to the beauty of the universe, from the planets of our solar system, to igniting clouds of dust millions of lightyears away. Today, we discuss How to Teach Astronomy. SHOW NOTES: Visit our website at www.h…

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10 Ways I am using AI in 2024 19:31

6M ago19:31

19:31

265: 10 Ways I am using AI in 2024 I use AI like I would a personal assistant. I give clear instructions and check the results. I use it for tasks that free me up to be creative in other areas, or to help me get started on a task. Here are 10 ways I am using AI this year so far. Podcast show notes – I use Descript to create a transcript from the au…

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The Anton App: Interactive Lessons for Kids 8:45

7M ago8:45

8:45

264: The Anton App: Interactive Lessons for Kids The Anton App offers bite-sized interactive learning opportunities for K – 8th grade. It is free and some of its features include: Works on all devices No ads Earn coins for games Covers a wide range of subjects Can customize avatars to look like oneself Games are offered as a reward for learning Gro…

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121: Homeschooling Is (Still) Growing 39:44

7M ago39:44

39:44

Ever since 2020, homeschooling has been booming. As such, not only are there more people than ever needing help navigating the world of homeschooling, but the world of education in general is transforming to meet the needs of this new homeschooling population. Join Holly and Jennifer as they discuss the ever-increasing growth of homeschooling. SHOW…

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Gamified Science Apps for Neurodiverse Brains

7M ago

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263: Gamified Science Apps for Neurodiverse Brains In today’s episode, host Meryl Van Der Merwe interviews homeschooling mom And Clark about two gamified science apps she uses with her neurodiverse kids — Brilliant and TytoOnline. These gamified science apps make science interactive and engaging for both neurodiverse and neurotypical students. Bril…

1
Equipping your children for careers in an AI world 18:14

7M ago18:14

18:14

262: Equipping your children for careers in an AI world With the AI revolution upon us and facing a future we can only guess at, how do we homeschoolers equip our children for careers in an AI world? Key Topics Covered: How rapidly AI is changing and transforming the job landscape 3 scenarios for how AI could impact jobs and careers Importance of d…

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120: Using Contests in Your Homeschool 46:28

7M ago46:28

46:28

Contests and competitions can create much-needed external motivation for students and can foster skills and abilities in our kids that will help them in their future. But for some people, competition is a dirty word, so how can you make sure you're doing it right? Today, we'll be discussing the ins and outs of using contests and competitions in you…

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Benefits of Video Projects 16:49

7M ago16:49

16:49

261: Benefits of video projects There are many benefits of video projects for homeschool students – and this episode unpacks some of those benefits Main Points: Kids and teens enjoy the video medium and will likely enjoy creating videos Video creation is a useful skill for college and jobs There are many scholarships that require videos Making vide…

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Unlocking the Power of Padlet 20:22

7M ago20:22

20:22

260: Unlocking the Power of Padlet In this episode I explain some of the power of Padlet, a free tool you can use in many ways in your homeschool. Topics covered in this episode: What is Padlet How does it work Pricing Accessibility Expanding features eg export as pdf or a slideshow Templates – eg the Book Review one. And here is an example Book Re…

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119: How to Teach Geography 53:48

8M ago53:48

53:48

Geography is an important subject to teach. Through geography we can better know the world around us, the people that live in it, and how to navigate it. But many homeschoolers wonder just how to teach geography. Far from a series of dull facts and scientific definitions, geography can come alive in your homeschool! Today, we'll be discussing all o…

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