#132

Homeschooling shouldn't be a solo journey! 🌟 In this episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids Podcast, host Jae dives into the importance of building a supportive homeschool community with special guest Dominique, founder of Off the Beaten Path Learning. Together, they explore empowering students through self-directed education, fostering a growth mindset, and reimagining what learning looks like beyond traditional systems. Discover creative ways to simplify your homeschool journey and tools to connect with like-minded families.Dominique shares her expertise in alternative education, offering insights from her own path as an educator and advocate for neurodivergent learners. Learn how leveraging strengths, embracing failure, and practicing patience create a thriving learning environment for student success. Plus, hear about practical resources like the BaseCampEd app and Classical Conversations to support your homeschool community.

Off Da Beaten Path Learning | Personalized Education

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, and raised in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Dominique understands what it means to stand out. She says dropping out of high school was the best decision she ever made because it was when she realized her power and autonomy.
While studying for the GED high school equivalency exam, they also tutored and taught others in various GED subjects. Finding alternative education was life-changing for Dominique. They went on to study at the self-directed undergraduate and graduate programs of Goddard College, focusing on Community Education. Their graduate thesis investigated culturally responsive and inclusive history education. Their work and life include mental health advocacy and anti-racist efforts.
Dom believes that everyone is a genius, and that it is the educator’s responsibility to observe, nurture, and empower the genius already there.
Dom has over ten years of education experience with learners of a variety of ages and in a variety of settings. They have worked with hundreds of young people and plan to work with thousands more.

Join us in rethinking education and embracing the power of collaboration! Visit homeschoolyokidsexpo.com for event updates, follow us on social media, and connect with our growing community to make homeschooling an unforgettable experience. Together, we can empower the next generation of learners! 🏡📚✨#communityconversations #homeschoolingjourney #homeschoolingcommunity #blackhomeschoolers #homeschoolingsupportCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:16 - Dom Introduces Herself07:15 - Importance of a GED18:50 - Understanding Neurodivergence22:53 - Embracing Neurodivergence28:20 - Finding Yourself and Your Identity31:10 - Benefits of Self-Directed Education33:20 - Observing Your Child's Needs40:45 - New Off The Beaten Path Programs44:20 - Expanding Off The Beaten Path’s Audience53:10 - Neurodivergence and Entrepreneurship1:02:55 - Self-Care Practices1:07:55 - Key Takeaways for Families1:09:53 - Learning from Failure1:11:05 - The Importance of Patience1:13:20 - Homeschooling Insights

#131 Are you navigating your homeschool journey solo? You're not alone! In this inspiring episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast, host Jae is joined by Damia Odomc-Thorpe, founder of Sparks Village Academy, a dedicated homeschool mom, and former educator. Together, they explore creative ways to simplify homeschooling, empowering students, and reimagining what learning looks like in a vibrant and supportive homeschool community.

Discover the importance of building a village, fostering a growth mindset, and creating a dynamic learning environment tailored to your child's success. Damica shares her transformative journey from classroom teacher to homeschool advocate, offering practical insights on overcoming challenges, finding your tribe, and balancing personal well-being with educational goals.

https://www.sparksvillage.com/https://www.facebook.com/sparksvillagehttps://www.instagram.com/sparksvillage/https://www.youtube.com/@sparksvillage

Damica Odom-Thorpe is a former educator turned entrepreneur, dedicated to reimagining education through culturally responsive and community-rooted approaches. As the founder of Sparks Village Academy, she leads an innovative educational ecosystem that offers tutoring, parent education, homeschool support, and mental wellness resources. A proud homeschool mom and current doctoral student in Educational Leadership, Damica blends her classroom experience with her passion for equity and empowerment—creating spaces where Black and Brown families feel seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.

This conversation is packed with actionable advice, valuable resources like Sparks Village Academy and BaseCampEd, and heartfelt encouragement to help you redefine education for your family. Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your homeschool experience, this episode will leave you inspired to take the next steps with confidence.

Join our mission to empower families and students by visiting homeschoolyourkidsexpo.com for updates, resources, and community connections. Don't miss the chance to connect with like-minded parents and educators who are redefining student success. Remember, homeschooling was never meant to be done alone—build your village today! 🏡

#secularhomeschoolers #freehomeschoolresources #parentresources #gracebasedparenting #secularhomeschooling

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:18 - Meet Damika Odum Thorpe07:56 - Homeschooling Decision16:55 - Sparks Village Academy Inspiration18:53 - Importance of Community Support20:38 - Overview of Sparks Village Academy22:40 - Role of a Digital Mentor24:49 - Introduction to Sparks Village26:15 - Importance of Being Present32:16 - Communicating with Your Kids34:53 - Authenticity with Children38:39 - Teacher Challenges in Education39:38 - Overview of Your Activities42:48 - Discussion on VA46:38 - Pursuing Your Passion48:33 - Self-Care Strategies52:55 - Key Reminders for Parents56:01 - Final Thoughts

#130

Discover how to build your dream homeschool community today and create a thriving learning environment for your family! 🏡 In this inspiring episode of the Homeschool Yo Kids podcast, host Jae chats with special guest Ashley Peek, an experienced homeschool mom, podcaster, and co-founder of For the Culture Homeschool. With over eight years of homeschooling experience and a passion for empowering students, Ashley shares her journey of reimagining what learning looks like and building an inclusive, supportive homeschool community of over 220 families.

Ashley dives into creative ways to simplify the homeschool journey, how to embrace a growth mindset, and the power of connecting with like-minded families to foster student success. From navigating challenges to finding the right curriculum and organizing impactful co-ops, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and heartwarming insights for every homeschool parent. Learn how Ashley’s work is revolutionizing education by amplifying marginalized voices and decolonizing traditional narratives.

www.fortheculturehomeschool.com

Ashley Peek of San Antonio, TX, hosts the "Secular Homeschool Revolution" podcast and co-founded For the Culture Homeschool. A homeschooling veteran of seven years and a mother of three, she's dedicated to revolutionizing home education.Ready to take your homeschool journey to the next level? Visit ForTheCultureHomeschool.com to explore Ashley’s work, join her community, and find resources that align with your family’s unique needs. Stay inspired by following Homeschool Yo Kids on social media and subscribing to the podcast for more empowering conversations and expert tips. Start building the homeschool community of your dreams today—because it truly takes a village! 🌟

Homeschoolyokidsexpo.com#homeschoolingsupport #homeschoolingonlineresources #homeschoolcurriculum #homeschoolingmultiplekids #homeschoolingschedules#homeschoolunitstudy #secularhomeschooler #secularhomeschooling #charlottemasonmethod #secularhomeschoolcurriculumCHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction01:15 - Ashley Peek Introduces Herself03:02 - Why Ashley Started Homeschooling05:26 - Importance of Community in Homeschooling07:21 - Ashley’s Educational Experience and Its Influence11:48 - Understanding Deschooling Concepts19:12 - Choosing the Right Curriculum26:58 - Creating the Secular, Inclusive Co-op38:15 - Defining Secular in Education40:38 - The Importance of Finding Your Homeschool Community42:59 - What Revolutionize Means to You50:09 - Self-Care Strategies for Parents52:18 - Key Takeaways for Parents54:04 - Where to Find Ashley Online55:55 - Always Homeschool Your Kids