2024 MÂCHÉ Convention

Raise Them Up, Don’t Crush Them Down

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Dr. Mark Hamby

Children need to hear the beating of our hearts rather than the beating of our voices. Listen to their words and you will discover their heart. Rules can change behavior, but not their heart. Discipline is necessary for purposeful disobedience, but irritating character flaws are transformed by truth and loving correction. As each day begins with new compassions, only then will children feel safe to admit their faults and seek help from those they love. It is love, not fear, and grace, not law, which rescues their hearts. Join Mark as he shares his experience as a shepherd and the unforgettable lesson that you don’t become a shepherd just because you own sheep.

Engaging Early Learners

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Nancy Bjorkman

What should “school” look like for early learners? What things are developmentally appropriate for the younger ages? How do we keep our “Littles” appropriately occupied while homeschooling their siblings? This fun and informative session will provide a plethora of ideas specifically geared to engage your pre- and elementary-age children. Nancy will share resources, fun games, toddler tips, and easy activities, all designed to help parents think outside the box when it comes to “doing school.”

Homeschooling in the Trenches with a Veteran: Tips, Tricks, Successes, and Epic Failures

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Julie Noraker

Come learn from a veteran homeschooler some great tips and tricks to use in your homeschool. We’ll be discussing things that have worked well, as well as things that have failed – epically! We’ll touch on various curriculums, personal pros/cons, learning struggles, age and gender differences, lessons learned, and where to find resources.  This is an every-day, down-and-dirty workshop that will hopefully make you feel refreshed that you’re not alone – and give you ideas to incorporate into your schooling!

Let Boys Be Boys

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Mark Hancock

Mark shares three winning strategies for leaders of boys and why this is important to the big kingdom business of Trail Life USA. Boys are like canaries in the coal mine of a culture losing its way. And they’ve stopped singing. Mark brings three simple but profound strategies that will immediately improve your ministry to and appreciation of the wonder of boys.

The Power of Family Advocacy by Minnesotans for Health Parental Rights Foundation

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Alicia Leiviska & Angie Gallagher

In a time when all things family are under attack, does anything we do matter? Join us for a frank discussion on the state of politics in Minnesota, lessons learned this year and why it’s so vital for families to get/stay involved and support those standing in the gap.

The View From the Back Seat: Perspectives of a Homeschool Grad

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Amy Buchmeyer, Esq.

No one understands the good, the bad, and the ugly of homeschooling like a homeschool grad. Amy saw the trials and benefits firsthand. She’ll discuss what worked (and what didn’t), and why. In the end, she is so grateful for parents who chose to homeschool her from K-12.

Unlock the Einstein Inside: Applying Brain Research to Wake Up the Smart in Your Child by LearningRx

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Richard Frieder

This workshop is ideal for parents seeking knowledge of the effects cognitive skills – visual and auditory processing, working and long-term memory, and attention skills, among others – have on learning. Attendees will receive knowledge as well as practical strategies to apply in the home or classroom as well as the opportunity for free cognitive skills testing for their children. This information is invaluable in equipping parents to be more effective in teaching each child and choosing curriculum that better meets their needs and learning strengths and weaknesses.

Your Student’s Math Struggles Are Not Their Fault

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

Math can bring out the worst in the best of students. It can undermine our confidence at any age! In this new age of digital learning, parents are discovering that their outwardly successful students are struggling. How do you quickly evaluate math anxiety, fill gaps, and reach grade-level proficiency? This workshop will benefit any age learner but will be particularly helpful to parents of middle and high-school-level math students.

Building Better Together by Foundation Of Character

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Carri Ann Pollard

The author of Foundations Of Character, Carri Ann Pollard, will share her journey from growing up in a single parent, non-christian, public schooling home, to becoming a Christian (as an adult), Mother, and then surprisingly a homeschooling parent. She will guide you in exploring and learning how to utilize the tools found in the family devotional Foundation Of Character. A family devotional that focuses on families growing and strengthening their faith together.

Cover-to-Cover:  Charting The Pathway to Biblical Literacy by Village Schools of the Bible

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Ryan Habbena

Biblical illiteracy is a major problem today. People think they are Biblically literate when they aren’t. Few people understand how the entire Bible fits together. And few people understand the Gospel (how to explain, proclaim it or defend it) even though it is of first importance (1 Cor.15:3-4). This workshop presents a pathway for Gospel centered Biblical literacy and Bible based worldview formation.

Escapism: Avoiding the Snares of Media

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Chuck Black

In today’s technology culture, the enemy’s lure of our young people’s minds to escape into an artificial world is great. As the line between reality and simulation blurs, the stronghold of escapism becomes more and more powerful. Apathy and self-indulgence are two destructive consequences that lead to broken relationships, broken homes, and broken hearts. Find some practical tools you can implement to help keep your children from getting caught in the snare of escapism.

Exceptional Kids – What’s a Parent to Do?

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

We all think our children are unique but are they exceptional? Exceptional could mean that they taught themselves to read at four or they are not reading independently at ten. How do you, as a parent, reach your differently-wired kid and help them succeed without losing your mind in the process? Join Gretchen Roe for an interactive conversation about how to sort learning differences and set expectations to make your child thrive.

Exploring Homeschooling Methods

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Nancy Bjorkman

This engaging workshop will review several different teaching approaches found in homeschooling, and then help attendees identify resources and curricula to fit their family’s particular style. Just getting started in homeschooling? Needing to refocus and redefine what homeschooling could look like for your family? Come benefit from Nancy’s over 30 years of experience and enjoy her dynamic style.

How to Get Your Kids Excited About Learning

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Jared Dodd

Do you have to prod your children from assignment to assignment? Do they find homeschooling to be boring or a burden? If education isn’t fun and exciting, then something needs to change. Come and learn how to turn your child from a lazy student to one of initiative, hard work, and dedication.

Let Me Go! Resolved Conflicts and Restored Relationships

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Dr. Mark Hamby

Based on the manipulative life of Jacob, his rival relationship with his brother, the lack of relationship between his mother and father, and the many stressful marital conflicts, the stage is set for a child’s life of deception and self-deception. In this session, parents and teens will learn how their pursuit of unconditional acceptance can lead to a life of manipulation, control, and rebellion. Not realizing that grace (unconditional favor) is always free, they try to earn the right to be loved as they confuse the costly assignments that God gives for His blessing. Journey with Mark and Jacob and learn how to find unconditional acceptance in all the right places; but be prepared to fight because once you’ve found what you are looking for; you’ll need to fight for your life and the lives of those you love! This seminar is based on Mark’s two years of research for his thesis, covering sibling rivalry, marital conflict, parental insights, and the truth that unlocks God’s grace and blessing.

Making College Affordable by Dunwoody College

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Peggy Quam

Presentation on Making College Affordable Program information on Dunwoody College of Technology

Dealing with an Official at Your Door – a Step by Step Guide

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Amy Buchmeyer, Esq.

The moment every parent dreads: a social worker knocks on your door. What do you do? Knowing beforehand how to respond can mean the difference between quickly resolving a CPS investigation and being subjected to the difficulty of an unnecessary, potentially traumatic experience. During this talk, Amy will equip you with an easy-to-understand explanation of the 4th Amendment, preemptive strategies, and instructions for how to respond if an official shows up at your door.

Dual Enrollment: The Perfect Transition from High School to College

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Dana Blomberg

Join this workshop and find out about:

• Our Century-Old Legacy of Dedication to the Truth of God’s Word and Discipleship
• Growing our Online Dual Enrollment programs
• Nationally and Regionally accredited
• Many Benefits of earning college credits in high school through dual enrollment online
• Dual Enrollment provides a perfect transition opportunity for students as they are trained in collegiate level courses

It is no wonder why over half of our student body is made up of homeschool graduates!

H.E.L.P.! Hope in Educating your child with Learning Problems by RightStart Mathematics

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Kathleen Cotter Clayton

Teaching is not for the faint of heart. Mix in a child with learning challenges and you may end up becoming very discouraged and possibly ready to throw in the towel. Be encouraged, you are NOT alone. Whether your child has been diagnosed with a learning challenge or simply doesn’t ‘get’ math, RightStart Math can help. In this workshop, you will learn some teaching strategies and techniques that will help children with learning challenges.

Public School to Homeschool: What I Wish I Had Known

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Candice Dugger

Transitioning to homeschooling can be an exciting yet intimidating journey for many families. The truth for many families is that knowing your laws and picking curriculum is only a small part of what you need to know to be successful as a family. In this workshop we will have a real conversation about what it takes to make those first few years a success.

Simplify Your Homeschool! by Free Lutheran Bible College

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Rebecca Moan

You can simplify your life! A veteran home-educator will share practical tips on managing your daily schedule, chore chart, lesson plans and curriculum, Scripture memory, sports and music activities, and college decisions. This workshop will not give you any advice whatsoever on how to make a baby sleep through the night, how to can your own food, or how to teach Latin! However, this workshop will encourage you to sort through the unrealistic expectations and clutter in your life to find freedom in God’s unique plan for you and your family.

The Importance of Genesis

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Jared Dodd

The foundation for the gospel and the Christian life is Genesis. The false teachings of evolution, prehistoric life, and realism are not based on solid reasoning. Science, logic, geology, and archeology support the account of God’s beginning. Unlock the power of the foundation of God’s Word. In order for your family to be successful in God’s Kingdom, they must have a Genesis Worldview.

The School of Regrets: Getting the Education that You Missed by Memoria Press

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Dr. D.T. Sheffler

We, the Keepers of History

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Angela O’Dell

Many of us grew up despising history – or at least what was passed off as history! As the author of the heart-focused history curriculum, America’s Story and The World’s Story, Angela shares her heart and passion for teaching history in a fresh and relevant way for this generation of homeschooling parents and children. Angela’s motto is: if it’s boring, it’s not real history! The hundreds of thousands of families who tune into her immensely popular history podcast, Real Cool History for Kids (launched in July 2019), agree with her – there is nothing better than hearing amazing history stories told from a distinctly Biblical worldview perspective. Only by learning through this perspective can we understand our own true position and purpose for such a time as this.

But learning history is not all fun and games. As history marches forward, more and more libraries – public and private – are purging older, first-hand accounts of what are now considered to be antiquated and politically incorrect events throughout history. As an avid antique book collector (and rescuer), Angela has amassed an impressive library of hundreds of books dating back to the early years of our nation. Part of this session is a discussion about how we, as home educators, can and must take part in saving these accounts for future generations.

A few other topics covered in this workshop…

• Why is it important to learn history from a Biblical worldview? Isn’t history just history?
• When should I start teaching my kids history? 
• Do I have to teach history in chronological order?

Call to Arms: The Guts & Glory of Courageous Fatherhood

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Chuck Black

There is a spiritual war being waged for our families. Our enemy is strong, and we are in his territory. Dad, if you don’t fight for your family, no one else will. When a soldier is in enemy territory, he is alert, focused, and purposeful about every move he makes with weapons ready. Only you stand between the enemy and your family, for God has given you the authority and the responsibility to stop him from destroying your marriage and your children. This takes courage, but your calling is noble…it is God’s call to arms. Chuck offers straight answers and practical help for dads who are looking to protect, train, equip, and launch soldiers for Jesus Christ.

DriveSafeRideSafe’s Teen Driver Safety Parent Awareness Workshop

Workshop Room: Suite 111

By: Mike Pehl

DRIVE SAFE RIDE SAFE’S TEEN DRIVER SAFETY PARENT AWARENESS PROGRAM ~ This compelling 90 minute workshop, given by Veteran Crash Investigator and Driver Safety Expert Mike Pehl, will be well worth your time! Mike Pehl’s authentic approach to teaching driver education has proven successful for over 25 years. His background as a Crash Investigator helps him bring a unique and pragmatic view of how to crash proof your teen driver. His Defensive Driving techniques teach your son or daughter how to protect themselves and their passengers. Mike will also cover how the driving laws, both old and new will apply to your new driver. He will also go over how you as parents can help your son or daughter become the best driver possible. Those who attend this class will meet the state requirement to REDUCE the number of btw hours students need to drive with a parent from 50 to 40 hours. (We will give all folks in attendance a certificate of completion to hand with their driving log)

Fantasy and the Reader’s Heart

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Bryan Davis

How fantasy can inspire readers in their spiritual lives, and how to discern good, moral fantasy and identify destructive fantasy. This is a helpful talk for parents, teachers, and other adults who guide children.

Get off the Couch and into Creation

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: The Wild Brothers

The Wild Brothers have grown up chasing after adventure and discovery in some of the remotest parts of the world as missionary kids. They will be presenting some of their observations, having transitioned from the jungles to America, about the importance of kindling the spirit of adventure in a culture that is often distracted and out of touch with reality. The Wild Brothers will demonstrate that it does not take being on the far side of the world to have adventure, all you have to do is get off your couch and into your corner of creation to experience the beauty of the outdoors and learn about our creator! Workshop geared for tweens/teens, adults will enjoy it as well.

Incorporating Music into Your Homeschool Day

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Jen Mulvihill

Many families would love to incorporate more music into their home and teaching but feel that without formal musical training they lack the skills. Jen Mulvihill’s practical yet fun approach to musical instruction will give dozens of ideas to incorporate music into your homeschool day and curriculum. If you would love to hear more singing and music in your home, this is the seminar for you!

Medical Freedom by New Kingdom Healthcare

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Dr. Bob Zajac

Medical Freedom from a Medical Doctors Perspective

Raising Christ-Centered Children by Opening the 10/40 Window in the Classroom

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Barry Pettyjohn

As parents, our responsibility to raise our children begins and ends with Christ. We want to introduce our children to Christ, but more so, we want to introduce our children to the character of Christ. In this workshop, we will discuss successful, Biblical methods to fulfill this responsibility.

Teaching Independence – Ways Your Middle Schooler Can Accomplish Math, Composition, and Spelling

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

Middle schoolers are at a delicate age where they need to learn executive function, but it can be tough to launch them. Join Gretchen Roe as she offers you practical guidance in teaching time management, math word problems, compositional writing, spelling confidence, and study skills.

Be Brave

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Kirk Cameron

A bold and biblical recipe for creating the next generation of strong and courageous heroes to advance God’s Kingdom of truth, beauty, and goodness.

50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Josh & Jen Mulvihill

Imagine a builder having no plan to construct a home. What would it be like if he tried to build a house without a blueprint? It would be chaos. Inevitably, there would be problems. Yet many parents attempt to raise children without a blueprint. Just like a builder needs a blueprint, parents need a good parenting plan. Part of having a plan is to understand the target we are aiming for and to have a plan to implement spiritual habits, character traits, and life skills that children need to possess in order to mature into a godly adult. In this highly popular seminar based on their book, Dr. Josh and Jen Mulvihill will help you put a discipleship plan into action to raise children to maturity in Christ and godly adulthood.

Biblical Theology, History, and Geography:  Cultivating the Matrix of the Christian Worldview by Village Schools of the Bible

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Ryan Habbena

Understanding the Christian Worldview is essential to maintaining one’s faith. Biblical faith is rooted in objective fact. There is historical, archaeological and geographical evidence that supports the accuracy and infallibility of the Bible. This workshop shows how well grounded the Christian Worldview is in the bedrock of truth.

Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Gaming: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Candice Dugger

Did you know the highest percentage of cyberbullying is not in teenagers? Did you know the average of Gaming bullying is 9? Did you know that kids are now dealing with bullying before age 5? Bullying is not a school issue, it’s a cultural issue. It’s in our neighborhoods, churches, coops, VBS, camps, neighborhoods, workplaces and even families. You will learn ways to help protect your children from these different forms of bullying, teach them to speak up for themselves and for others, and be given resources to assist in watching for, and handling bullying.

Communicating Effectively In A Loud World by NCFCA Christian Speech and Debate

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Michael Leibig

The practice of respectful, articulate discourse in our society seems all but lost. It’s easy to be disheartened and frustrated, but as Christians, we are called to be salt and light in a dark and dying world! The effective communication skills needed to cut through the noise and confusion don’t come naturally to everyone. Come hear some practical tips to help your children be better listeners, thinkers, and speakers at every stage of their educational journey. Effective communication can be taught and used to help fulfill our role of ambassadors for Christ wherever the Lord calls us!

Developing Discernment in an Age of Dystopia

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Dr. Mark Hamby

In an age of amusement, we must guard against influences that excite the senses, circumvent reason, and foster gullibility. Through the art of storytelling and the prodding of the mysterious ancient Shepherd of Ecclesiastes 12, parents will learn how to test the worthiness of stories—the collection of words that represent an author’s worldview. Discover how discernment can be developed through stories that inspire godly character that is costly, compelling, and heroic. (Rom. 5, Eccles. 3, Song. 8).

The themes of love, compassion, courage, and friendship that dystopian heroes promise as the new rule of order sound good in a story but do not work in the real world. Love without absolute truth leads to hypocrisy and eventually, oppression. Some may argue that dystopian stories demonstrate sacrificial love but their agenda behind their love is to overthrow what they see as oppressive authority. If Jesus were living on earth today, his Father’s requirements and assignments would be seen as oppressive and tyrannical. Submitting to the will of God under difficult trials demonstrates the highest degree of trust and love. Obedience to the Father’s will is the real battle and children need to be guided carefully so that they recognize that one’s fight is not against their parents or spiritual guides, but against spiritual wickedness that targets each individual with lustful corrupting influences to disobey. (Heb. 5:7, 8, KJV).

Reading & Spelling: One Journey, Two Paths, and How They Connect

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

Does your child ace Friday’s test and then spell the same words wrong the following week? What if they have no spelling skills at all? Why does reading comprehension not lead to spelling proficiency? Come learn how neuroscience teaches us to join the paths of reading and spelling and create one seamless, literate journey and why traditional spelling methods often are frustrating and less than successful.

Training our Daughters for True Success:

Workshop Room: Suite 111

By: Dana Blomberg

We live in a culture riddled with confusing messages.  With the mantra of women in recent decades encouraging our girls to be strong and independent, why is there such a high percentage suffering from depression, burn out, marriages falling apart, etc. Are we REALLY supposed to be independent?  Or perhaps something vastly different and dynamic? (Dependent—therefore STRONG) Using the plumb line of Scripture, let’s examine the beauty of dependence, and how this will fuel the success of all things He has called us to be and do in this age of confusion;  as well as how to hand the baton off to our daughters.

Unlock the Einstein Inside: Applying Brain Research to Wake Up the Smart in Your Child by LearningRx

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Richard Frieder

This workshop is ideal for parents seeking knowledge of the effects cognitive skills – visual and auditory processing, working and long-term memory, and attention skills, among others – have on learning. Attendees will receive knowledge as well as practical strategies to apply in the home or classroom as well as the opportunity for free cognitive skills testing for their children. This information is invaluable in equipping parents to be more effective in teaching each child and choosing curriculum that better meets their needs and learning strengths and weaknesses.

What Does the Future Hold for Homeschool Freedom?

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Amy Buchmeyer, Esq.

Between a worldwide pandemic and a new administration, the face of homeschooling looks dramatically different than it did even a year ago. Amy will talk through what you should expect for homeschooling freedom and why there are so many reasons for hope.

Brave Books – Story Hour

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Kirk Cameron

Come hear Kirk Cameron read from his book “As You Grow”. There will be time for a Q&A to follow.

11:45 – 12:30 in Ballroom 1

Adapting the Playbook for Special Needs Students – Don’t Move the Goal. Modify the Play

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

“Special needs” has become a catch-all term for children who don’t fit the “norms.” But what should you do when your child doesn’t learn like other children? Join Gretchen Roe for some practical advice on how to modify goals and expectations and then adapt your curriculum to help your atypical learner succeed.

Helping Your Child Build and Maintain Lasting Friendships: 5 Things Every Homeschool Family Can Do

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Jen Mulvihill

Every parent desires to see their children thrive with flourishing friendships, but making meaningful connections can be difficult when homeschooling. This seminar will provide tools to help you and your child identify good friends, build relationships, and overcome common childhood friendship hurdles.

Hero, Knight, Saint: The Development of Virtue by Memoria Press

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Dr. D.T. Sheffler

We read literature, in part, because we need to imagine virtue and valor, heroism and strength. This act of imagining both teaches us what it is to be good and attracts us by the allure and beauty of the telling. But not all admirable protagonists are the same. We meet very different archetypes in strong figures such as Theseus, chivalrous figures such as Galahad, and holy figures such as Saint Francis. In this talk, I will explain the progression from Hero to Knight to Saint, with examples from the classical literature, and I will argue that you should have all of these abundantly in your child’s curriculum.

Homeschooling Through High School

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Nancy Bjorkman

This very popular, interactive workshop will help to answer frequently asked questions about homeschooling through the high school years. We will consider course requirements, transcripts, record keeping, curriculum choices, dual enrollment opportunities, co-ops, CLEP and other testing options, resumes, career assessments, and more. Attendees will leave with the tools necessary and the confidence needed to homeschool through high school.

PSEO On Purpose by University of Northwestern

Workshop Room: Suite 111

By: Callie Knitt

Minnesota residents have access to the Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program that allows high school junior and senior students to take college-level courses from approved institutions. If you have a ninth, tenth, or eleventh grader, join us to explore how PSEO may fit into your homeschooling experience and your student’s educational goals. We will discuss educational planning, admissions requirements, and the many benefits of participating in this program.

RightStart™ Middle School Math by RightStart Mathematics

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Kathleen Cotter Clayton

Prepare your middle school student for higher level math by encouraging them to think critically and creatively with the RightStart™ Math Level G. This entry level, student-lead course emphasizes the practical use of knowledge learned up to this point. This is not a typical boring worksheet curriculum, rather it is a hands-on approach with a real-life application and an emphasis and focus on understanding. This curriculum received First Place in Mary Pride’s Practical Homeschooling Reader’s Award! I Come and learn more about this innovative award-winning program.

Start Strong & Stay The Course by Foundation Of Character

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Carri Ann Pollard

Start Strong & Stay The Course is a mini consulting session hosted by The Pollard Tribe Homeschooling Consultants and Foundation Of Character. During our workshop we focus on the 4Ws that become a compass for you and your family to successfully navigate through your homeschooling journey. Why you have chosen to homeschool, Who is all involved in your homeschooling journey, When is the best time for your tribe to be homeschooling, and discovering What are the best resources for your unique family, because no two families are the same.

The Epic Battle between Wisdom and Folly

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Dr. Mark Hamby

Travel through Proverbs 1-9, and learn why the “fear of God” is a prerequisite to His love and how the “fear of the LORD” can turn careless children into cautious thought-full decision makers. Learning to love what God loves and hate what God hates is foundational for a child’s worldview to develop properly. As the story of Wisdom unfolds, experience the unforgettable lessons of Wisdom’s ways and Folly’s entrapments. Both Wisdom and Folly promise prosperity, prestige, protection, and pleasure. Learning how to distinguish between Folly’s false promises and Wisdom’s guiding truths will help children develop discernment to avoid false flatterers, beguiling beauty, and enticing touches, especially with their peers and the culture at large. The choreography that Solomon has created in these chapters provides an unforgettable dramatic unfolding of truth of epic proportions. One lesson among many is that when one follows Pleasure, she will bind, restrict, and addict, but when one follows Wisdom, Pleasure will follow, bringing freedom, restoration, and rewards. Through the knowledge gained in this seminar, you can lead children to the house of wisdom to enjoy the enduring benefits of favor with God and man.

The Truth About Mental Health in our Youth Today

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Candice Dugger

It’s no secret that Mental health concerns are on the rise. Currently, 1 in 3 high schoolers say they have been struggling with their mental health. Our family has been impacted directly by this crisis in our youth and has made it a mission to help others. We will discuss mental health concerns facing Gen Z along with tools to help you identify the risks and signs. Finally we will share tools on how to help your child build skills and resources to help balance their mental health.

Fighting Apathy: Teaching Your Teens to Care

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Chuck Black

More than ever before, raising teenagers that care about their faith is hard, especially in a culture that is quickly becoming increasingly hostile toward Christians. When a child enters those confusing years, the enemy uses dozens of weapons to rob them of their faith. Spiritual apathy is insidious and perhaps the most destructive of all. Chuck and his wife raised six children in this age of technology, learning to fight back against teen apathy and ultimately helping their children’s faith not only survive, but thrive. Chuck shares understanding and techniques to equip parents for these challenging teen years.

Handwriting, Phonics, Spelling, Reading, & More: Equipping Students with What They Need to Succeed by The Works People

Workshop Room: Suite 113

By: Jay W. Patterson

This K-12 curriculum hits a home run every time it is sincerely tried. It is arguably the most effective language arts program out there; it’s gap-free, neurologically based and all under one umbrella. Starting with handwriting, you’ll take students all the way to grammar, composition and higher- level thinking skills. Nonreaders read. Struggling readers, spellers and writers improve. Only one set of teacher materials is needed for any number of children for any number of years. This multiple year, multiple student, emphasis is the most cost effective and academically sound curriculum you will find. Come and see why.

HELP! I Am Running on Empty!!

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Dana Blomberg

The Term “Homeschooling Mom” means everything from preschool teacher to chemistry lab technician, from chief cook and bottle washer to Biblical Counselor and everything in between. And then there is maintaining my walk with the Lord, a healthy marriage, church involvement, piano lessons, basketball practice, laundry…how do I maintain while fulfilling several full-time jobs? Time to recalibrate! Find out how to recognize and rest upon the Help revealed in God’s Word and not only survive, but to THRIVE.

How Music Maps The Brain by Children’s Music Academy

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Karra Buller

We will share how learning music as a language from a young age actually changes brain patterns for a child’s lifetime. We will be sharing cutting edge research in how the neuroplasticity of the brain is increased and changed with Music Education in ways that nothing else will do for the child. We will be sharing how music cross-references brain centers and increases many learning capabilities in ways nothing else does. We will also touch on how music helps those that have learning disabilities or are on the Spectrum.

Navigating the College Journey with GCU

Workshop Room: Suite 111

By: Callie Rafferty

The process of applying to college can be daunting for everyone, but for homeschool families it can be even more rewarding if you start early and do it right. At Grand Canyon University, we have a large homeschool student population and our previous student body president was a homeschool student! In this workshop, the Homeschool Admissions team will walk you through how to start the college search process with confidence and how parents and students can prepare early for college. You will learn how to create a stellar homeschool transcript, how dual enrollment can save you much time and money on your undergraduate degree, and the different ways you can earn college credit before starting college classes.

Raising Calm Kids in an Overstimulating World

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Angela O’Dell

The importance of teaching our kids to de-stress in this overstimulating world is so extremely important. This is an interactive workshop, which addresses both the spiritual battle being waged on our children and the physical effects of the fast-paced, technological age we live in. This workshop is, in essence, a Biblical Life Coaching session, in which Angela pulls from her training as a child development specialist and family coach to address how stress leads to anxiety, which if not addressed, turns into depression. Come and learn about how we can take practical steps in learning how to deal with it ourselves so we can equip our children.

A few of the topics covered in this workshop:

• The connection between our culture’s technological advances and adolescent depression, anxiety, and even suicide
• Helping our children understand what tech is doing to their physical brains
• Interactive discussion about building anchoring relationships
• Exploring how our high-demands, fast-paced culture creates excess stress in our brains and what we can do about it
• Tips and guidance for learning and teaching de-stressing techniques

Raising Godly Boys: The Four-Step Proven Process for Growing Boys into Godly Men

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Mark Hancock

Boys are in trouble. Hear Mark Hancock, Homeschool Dad, Mental Health Counselor, and CEO of Trail Life USA talk about proven processes for helping to pull boys out of the cultural mire that seems to want to declare them deficient. If you have a boy in your home or are leading boys, you will be equipped with an understanding and strategy to make a difference.

Time OUT to Time IN – Teaching Effective Time Management Skills

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Gretchen Roe

Research says that students who learn to manage their academic time are more successful. How do you teach a child to stay on task when they cannot even find their way to the school table? Come and join Gretchen Roe as she shares research into why your child struggles to manage their time and effective ways you can teach them to set goals and stay on task.

What is a Biblical Worldview, Really? by BJU Press Homeschool/HomeWorks by Precept

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Sharon Fisher

Do you know how to influence your child’s worldview day-by-day and in each homeschool subject? Your child’s behavior, worldview, and what He knows about God and the subject matter you are teaching are all connected. Let’s talk about where to really start.

College Readiness by Crown College

Workshop Room: Suite 112

By: Emily N Cano

As parents, you want the best education for your kids. Studies show home educated students “go to and succeed at college at an equal or higher rate than the general population” (Dr. Brian D. Ray, NHERI.org). So how do you know if your child is ready for college and can succeed? This workshop will discuss different areas to assess before enrolling your child in college.

Crafting Believable Worlds for Fiction Writers

Workshop Room: Suite 110

By: Chuck Black

Creating a good story that inspires readers is challenging. Plot and character development, dialogue, action and detail are all critical elements, but the world in which all of this takes place is the foundation for every great book. Learn the fundamentals if crafting believable worlds for your next fictional work. Chuck shares his tips and techniques to help you create a canvas upon which your story of inspiration can be written.

Discipling Children: 8 Biblical Methods Every Parent Can Do

Workshop Room: Suite 109

By: Josh Mulvihill

Do you want to help your children grow in their walk with the Lord? The eight practices presented in this seminar are a synthesis of Josh’s Ph.D research regarding biblical principles and best practices that families across the country utilize to help children grow in spiritual maturity. You will walk away with practical tools and specific ways that you can invest in the spiritual growth of the next generation.

How to Get Dads Involved in Homeschooling

Workshop Room: Suite 107

By: Jared Dodd

In recent years, homeschooling has become a responsibility placed solely on mothers. The Scriptures, however, give a very different recipe for success in training up children in the ways of God. In this workshop, fathers will learn not only the vision that God has for them in the area of homeschooling, but also some great ideas for being involved in their greatest calling. Dads are essential to their children’s education.

Learn how to strengthen Learning, Processing, Attention, and Behavior through Motor Skills! BrainyAct by Kinuu

Workshop Room: Suite 114

By: Dolly Lowery and Macy Hanson

Did you know that the strongest path toward reading and handwriting development is based on strong balance, bilateral coordination, and smooth eye tracking? Recent research has shown that Sensory, Motor, and Cognitive processing is critical for learning to become easier and happen naturally for all students and those with neuro-diverse needs. While most learning today focuses on curriculum, motor skills are the foundation of every skill we learn. “We must perceive in order to move, but we must move in order to perceive”. Neuroscience gives us ways to enhance brain connectivity, which allows a child to absorb what’s being taught, so they naturally perform at a whole new level. When you address the source of brain connectivity you can transform the quality of life for your child and your entire family.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the formula for success:
~The neuroscience behind ongoing learning and development barriers ­
~How to strengthen brain and body connectivity to overcome barriers
~BrainyAct, a brain enhancement program in the form of an engaging and interactive game that cross-trains the brain with body movements to build connectivity
~How to add BrainyAct to the homeschool day or homeschool co-op to elevate learning and performance
~Testimonials and real-life outcomes from other homeschool families

When A + B Doesn’t Equal C

Workshop Room: Suite 108

By: Angela O’Dell

We all want our children to grow up to embrace our faith in God. This is, after all, one of the main reasons we homeschool. But what happens when our homeschooled child walks away from our families’ faith or never makes it their own? What must we parents do about it? Although this is not a fun topic to discuss or explore, the fact that we are losing a high number of our young people to the insidious pull of secular culture demands we address it where it matters most: in our homes. In this workshop, Angela addresses the much-avoided topic of unexpected outcome: when A + B ≠ C. Pulling from personal experience and the testimony of numerous other parents who have walked the road of this kind of loss, Angela brings hope and truth concerning our prodigals, to the homeschool table. This session will encourage homeschooling families at every stage of their journey.

Working & Homeschooling How do I Make This Work

Workshop Room: Ballroom 1

By: Candice Dugger

You CAN work and homeschool your children – but this lifestyle does present a series of challenges. I’m here to encourage you by giving you some real life tips and tools on how our family can make this lifestyle work.