The Lively Bean

Melissa

What If Your Homeschool Days Are More Magical Than You Think?

What If Your Homeschool Days Are More Magical Than You Think?

At The Lively Bean, we believe homeschooling is one of the most meaningful, memory-filled journeys a family can take. But we also know something else to be true. Some days are magical…and some days are a little messy, loud, emotional, or not-at-all-Pinterest-worthy. And you know what? That’s normal.

5 Ways for Homeschooling Families to Save Money in 2026

5 Ways for Homeschooling Families to Save Money in 2026

(Without Adding More Stress to Your Plate) Let’s be honest—homeschooling is already an investment. Between curriculum, groceries (so many groceries), activities, and the everyday cost of life, it can feel like your budget is constantly being stretched. The good news? Saving money in 2026 doesn’t have to

Best of 2025: The Most-Loved Blog Posts from The Lively Bean

Best of 2025: The Most-Loved Blog Posts from The Lively Bean

A year of real-life homeschooling, gentle encouragement, and lighter mental loads As the year wraps up and we look ahead to a fresh start, we wanted to pause for a moment and reflect — not on perfection, but on what truly supported homeschool moms in real life this year. 2025 was

How Homeschool Kids Build Real Friendships Without Public School

How Homeschool Kids Build Real Friendships Without Public School

If you’ve ever paused during your homeschool day and thought, “But how will my kids build real friendships without public school?” — you are not alone, and you are definitely not overthinking it. This question comes up again and again in homeschool conversations, especially for families who don’t have

Pinterest Predicts 2026: Practical Trends Every Homeschool Mom Should Know

Pinterest Predicts 2026: Practical Trends Every Homeschool Mom Should Know

Trends don’t usually make it onto a homeschool to-do list — and honestly, they shouldn’t feel like one more thing. But every once in a while, a cultural shift quietly influences how we teach, decorate, read, travel, celebrate, and connect as families. Pinterest Predicts 2026 isn’t about fast

Christmas Breakfast Ideas for Homeschoolers: Stress-Free, Delicious, and Memorable

Christmas Breakfast Ideas for Homeschoolers: Stress-Free, Delicious, and Memorable

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for homeschool families. Between planning lessons, attending holiday events, decorating your home, and juggling family commitments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One special tradition that shouldn’t add stress—but instead create joy—is Christmas morning breakfast.

Hosting for Homeschool Moms in December: How to Keep It Fun, Practical, and Stress-Free

Hosting for Homeschool Moms in December: How to Keep It Fun, Practical, and Stress-Free

Ah, December. The twinkling lights, cozy mornings with cocoa, the smell of cookies baking… and the looming thought of hosting family and friends. If you’re a homeschool mom, hosting during the holidays can feel overwhelming to say the least. You’re managing homeschool lessons, winter activities, co-op events, gift