The Lively Bean

Melissa

Heartfelt Gift Ideas for New Homeschool Mamas: Perfect for Co-ops and Mom Groups

Heartfelt Gift Ideas for New Homeschool Mamas: Perfect for Co-ops and Mom Groups

Starting the homeschool journey is an exciting, often overwhelming adventure. When a mom decides to take on the role of both parent and teacher, she’s not just signing up for lesson plans and learning objectives—she’s embracing a lifestyle shift that takes courage, creativity, and a whole lot

What to Expect Your First Year of Homeschooling: A Realistic Guide for Moms

What to Expect Your First Year of Homeschooling: A Realistic Guide for Moms

Homeschooling your child for the first time is a big decision—and it comes with a mix of excitement, nerves, and a million questions. If you’re standing at the starting line of your homeschool journey, wondering what the year ahead will really look like, you’re in the right

How to Prep for a Babysitter as a Homeschool Mom (Without the Stress)

How to Prep for a Babysitter as a Homeschool Mom (Without the Stress)

As a homeschool mom, you’re used to wearing all the hats—teacher, chef, chauffeur, counselor, activity coordinator, and more (sometimes all before noon). So when it’s finally time to take a break—maybe for a date night, a doctor’s appointment, or just a little breathing room—it’

How to Start Homeschooling Research: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

How to Start Homeschooling Research: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Embarking on the homeschooling journey can feel like stepping into a new world full of possibilities—and a few unknowns. If you’re just starting, the research phase is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming parts of the process. The good news is that you don’t have to

Thoughtful & Inspiring Graduation Gifts for Your Homeschool Graduate

Thoughtful & Inspiring Graduation Gifts for Your Homeschool Graduate

Graduating from homeschool is a major milestone—not just for your child, but for you too! You’ve poured time, energy, and love into their education, and now it’s time to celebrate their next chapter. Whether your graduate is college-bound, trade school-focused, starting their own business, or still figuring

Career Planning for Homeschoolers: A Practical Guide from Preschool Through High School

Career Planning for Homeschoolers: A Practical Guide from Preschool Through High School

One of the sweetest parts of homeschooling is getting to really know our kids—not just what curriculum works best, but what makes them tick, what lights them up, and what kind of life they might want to build. And believe it or not, it’s never too early (or

How to Start Lightly Planning for Next Year—Without Overthinking It

How to Start Lightly Planning for Next Year—Without Overthinking It

Hey there, homeschool mama— It’s April. You’re probably juggling end-of-year wrap-ups, trying to finish a few lingering lessons, and maybe even bracing yourself for testing or evaluations. But somewhere between those math worksheets and your third cup of coffee, your mind might be drifting toward next year. “Maybe