Join 1300+ homeschool families building confidence for their calling!
VIP includes all BRAVE 2024 + 2025 recordings + 2 weeks access
Upgrade to VIP Access
SCHEDULE
(SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
MORNING SESSIONS
Brandon Beckley |
Homeschool 101: The Right S.T.A.R.T.
Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of homeschooling? Join us for a concise, inspiring 30-minute session that cuts through the noise and provides three powerful starting points for your homeschooling journey. Discover how to uncover your family's unique "why," embrace a thriving mindset, and find your family's natural rhythm – ditching rigid schedules for joyful learning. Learn actionable nuggets you can implement immediately and get a sneak peek at the... (TOP SECRET!)
Live Panel |
Getting Started Panel
Featuring Andrea Hall (EPIC Homeschool Network), Heather Henkle (Apologia), Megan Robinson (Pennies and Salt), Ashley Weaver (Joyful Learning), and Kali Mitchell (Working to Homeschool) – practical tips and encouragement for aspiring or newer homeschool families!
Exhibit Hall |
Explore Resources
Visit the exhibit hall to discover a wide range of homeschooling resources, curricula, and support materials.
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
Opening Live Session |
Welcome to BRAVE 2025
Join us as we kick off BRAVE 2025! Get an overview of the conference, hear exciting announcements, and prepare for an inspiring event.
Rachael Carman |
Homeschooling Isn’t the Answer
Bummer, isn’t it? Wouldn’t it be nice if homeschooling was the answer? I mean, wouldn’t it be nice if all of the problems in our families could be solved with good family time and top of the line curriculum? Wouldn’t it be great if all we had to do was adopt a certain daily schedule, read aloud certain books, and follow a certain educational philosophy? Wouldn’t it be awesome if there were just a simple checklist of “To-do’s” each day that would guarantee success? Yes, it would, but alas, there’s not. However, there is an answer to all that ails us: the sin and death, the pain and misery. Come be reminded of the Answer and the hope it engenders.
Rachael Carman |
LIVE Q&A with Rachael Carman
Ask Rachael Carman your questions following her session “Homeschooling Isn’t the Answer.”
Dara Halydier |
Homeschooling on a Shoestring Budget
Homeschooling doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars each year. With some extra time and energy, you can teach on a budget. Tracy and Dara Halydier started homeschooling while Tracy was in seminary and without a job. They continued on a minister’s salary while homeschooling five children through high school. Dara will share ideas from K-12 on bargain buying and teaching without the textbooks. She will share truths about copyright and give you resources on everything homeschooling.
Exhibit Hall |
Explore Resources
Continue exploring the exhibit hall for more homeschooling resources, curricula, and support materials.
EVENING SESSIONS
Giveaways & MORE! |
Brief Welcome & Giveaways
Join us for some exciting giveaways and announcements!
Regina Gravrok | Classic Learning Test |
Q&A: All Things Standardized Testing and More!
Chat with Regina Gravrok, a homeschool grad who now works with Classic Learning Test (CLT), about all things standardized testing and more! Come to get your testing questions answered from someone in the field, and stay for insider advice on homeschooling from someone who received a homeschool K-12 education first-hand!
Wendy Alcime |
“I Just Want My Home to Feel Less Overwhelming!” Simple Habits to Create a Home That Works for You
Ever look around your house and think, “Where do I even start?” You’re not alone! This session is like sitting down with a friend over coffee and chatting about how to make home life feel a little less crazy. I’ll share real stories from my life as a homeschooling mom of five (because trust me, I get it), along with simple, practical tips that can help your days run smoother. You’ll walk away with doable ideas that don’t require overhauling your whole life—just small changes that make a big difference. No pressure, no perfection—just support and encouragement for moms who want to breathe a little easier at home.
Live Panel |
Special Needs Panel
Featuring Misty Bailey, Sarah Collins (HomeschoolOT), Katie Waalkes (Life in the Mundane), and Leilani Melendez – insights and strategies for homeschooling children with special needs.
MORNING SESSIONS
Welcome, Giveaways & MORE! |
Morning Welcome & Giveaways
Start your day with us! Welcome back, plus more chances for giveaways!
Live Panel |
Elementary Panel
Featuring Christine Zell (Rabbit Trails Homeschool), Sarah S. (Homeschool Glue), Ann Troast (Without Doors), Kathryn Gomes, and Sherri Renno – tips and strategies for engaging elementary-aged learners.
Colleen Kessler |
An Atypical Homeschool: Helping Your Neurodivergent Child Thrive
Homeschooling neurodivergent children? Parenting these kiddos can be a challenge, and homeschooling them is that challenge squared! On the surface, it seems like homeschooling quirky kids should be that different from teaching any kiddo, but simmering underneath all the fun is a complexity you never anticipated. In this session, you’ll gain new perspectives, practical tips, and leave ready to thrive in your homeschool and your parenting.
Colleen Kessler |
LIVE Q&A with Colleen Kessler
Ask Colleen Kessler your questions following her session “An Atypical Homeschool.”
Exhibit Hall |
Explore Resources
Visit the exhibit hall to discover a wide range of homeschooling resources, curricula, and support materials.
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
Giveaways & MORE! |
Afternoon Giveaways & Announcements
More chances to win and stay updated!
Anna Knaub |
Teaching Questionable Classics with Confidence
Threats to literature have been the norm more or less since written word began. There are plenty of controversial "books," that have been published in the last decade. But what about classics that have questionable themes or events? How do you bravely teach classics like, "Brave New World," "1984," "Heart of Darkness," "Frankenstein," "Romeo & Juliet," "Hamlet," and others that may have questionable themes like sexuality, individuality, suicide, revenge, etc....This session incorporates the importance of understanding literary criticism, and using it as a tool to help your student understand criticisms like historical contexts, moral philosophical, reader-response criticism, and sociological criticism. By doing this you can easily, and naturally have conversations including Biblical stances on concepts like marriage, sexuality, slavery, racisms, etc....You can BRAVELY read and teach these classics, while providing strong, and honest conversations with your students about what the Bible says, while giving them the skill of reading and analyzing using literary criticism.
Live Panel |
Middle & High School Panel
Featuring Missy Andrews (Center For Lit), Pamela Barnhill (Homeschool Better Together), Anna Knaub (The Nurtured Bee), Ray Notgrass (Notgrass History), and Emily Eaton (Education Next Steps) – guidance for educating teens and preparing them for future success.
Exhibit Hall |
Explore Resources
Continue exploring the exhibit hall for more homeschooling resources, curricula, and support materials.
EVENING SESSIONS
Giveaways & MORE! |
Evening Welcome & Giveaways
Join us for evening announcements and giveaways!
Sarah Collins |
What Are Executive Functioning Skills and How Do They Impact Homeschool Planning
Executive functioning skills are essential for learning, planning, and organization—key aspects of homeschooling. This session explores how these brain-based skills impact homeschool planning and offers practical strategies to support children at different developmental stages. We’ll discuss response inhibition, emotional control, time management, and goal-directed persistence, providing techniques to create a structured yet flexible learning environment. Attendees will learn to set realistic goals, establish effective routines, and implement strategies that foster independence and confidence in their learners.Whether you’re new to homeschooling or seeking to refine your approach, this session provides actionable insights to help you navigate challenges and support your child’s growth.
Elsie Iudicello |
Homeschooling After I Messed Up
Don't waste the mess ups of homeschooling! Our greatest successes were a direct result of learning from our biggest flops. Practical Strategies and helpful questions for those who need to pick themselves up, gain insight, and get back on the path.
Elsie Iudicello |
LIVE Q&A with Elsie Iudicello
Ask Elsie Iudicello your questions following her session.
After Party |
Community After Party
Come join us for a taste of the M2H community!
MORNING SESSIONS
Welcome, Giveaways & MORE! |
Saturday Morning Welcome & Giveaways
Welcome to the final day! Join us for announcements and giveaways.
Andrew Pudewa |
Cultivating Attentiveness and Contemplation
Blaise Pascal observed that many of humanity’s problems “stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” If true in 1654, how much more is it so today in a world where all of us—young and old—suffer from screen-induced attention deficiencies and fractured concentration. Indeed, as we increasingly depend on external stimulation for diversion, our ability to reflect, remember, compare, and contemplate seems to wane. This discussion will address this need as well as practical ways we can help our students develop these essential thinking skills.
Andrew Pudewa |
LIVE Q&A with Andrew Pudewa
Ask Andrew Pudewa your questions following his session “Cultivating Attentiveness and Contemplation.”
Kristen B |
Strength for the Journey: Self-Care That Sustains Your Homeschool
Homeschooling is a calling, but it can also be exhausting if we don’t take time to renew our minds and bodies. In this session, we’ll redefine self-care—not as indulgence, but as faithful stewardship—and explore simple, realistic ways to manage your time, create space for rest, and care for yourself in a way that truly sustains you for the journey ahead.
Lunch / Exhibit Hall |
Break and Explore Resources
Take a break for lunch and spend more time in the Exhibit Hall.
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
Giveaways & MORE! |
Final Giveaways & Announcements
Last chance for giveaways and important closing announcements!
Katie Waalkes |
Homeschooling in Light of Eternity
Homeschooling can easily become consumed by checklists, curriculum choices, and constant interruptions, but what if we stepped back and asked, “In light of eternity, what really matters?” In this workshop, we’ll explore how to view our homeschooling through a biblical lens, anchoring our purpose not in perfection or performance but in obedience to God’s calling. We’ll talk about discipling our kids’ hearts, equipping them for their God-given purpose, and how to stay faithful when plans fall apart. This is not about doing more; it’s about doing what lasts. If you're weary or unsure of the impact you're making, come be reminded that your faithfulness in the mundane is building something eternal.
Live Panel |
General Q&A Panel (All Things Homeschool)
Featuring Nadim El-Rahi (CTCMath), Sara Radginski (Blessed Homeschool), Lauren Ronquillo, Morgan Tilman, and Julie C – ask anything about homeschooling and get real-world answers from experienced parents and educators.
Closing Session |
Wrap-Up and Farewell
Join us for the official closing of BRAVE 2025. Thank you for attending!
Kathryn Gomes | Apologia |
Toddlers in Tow: What to Do With Your Littlest Ones While You Homeschool
There is nothing like a baby or toddler to foil the best-laid plans of any homeschool parent. While our littlest ones can seem like a constant disruption, they are a part of God’s plan for our families and our homeschools. In this session, Kathryn will give you fresh inspiration for folding the cuddliest members of your family into your homeschool. She also shares practical tips she has gleaned from homeschool veterans and her own experiences.
Amy Sloan |
Beyond the Transcript: Homeschooling High School with Confidence and Freedom
Many parents feel confident homeschooling in the early years but freeze up when it’s time for high school. What about transcripts? College prep? Will my teen be ready for life? This session will tackle those fears head-on, showing you why homeschooling high school isn’t just doable—it’s an incredible opportunity. We’ll discuss the essentials (like credits, transcripts, and planning), but more importantly, we’ll talk about how to cultivate a home where learning thrives and your teen grows in wisdom, independence, and faith. You can homeschool high school—this session will show you how!
Sarah S. |
The Importance of Teaching the Riches in Your Homeschool
The Importance of Teaching the Riches in Your Homeschool is a session that discusses what those of us in the Charlotte Mason community call "the riches." The riches are subjects so many of us often skip for sake of time (or not knowing how to teach them) but are so valuable to our students. I'll teach why the riches are important and how to easily fit them into your homeschool day. The riches include poetry, hymns, folk songs, composer study, picture study, handicraft, and more.
Adam Andrews |
Living Books – Implementing the Ultimate Box-Set Curriculum
Regardless of the age of your students, the classics of Western civilization offer you a complete set of the greatest curriculum materials ever created. CenterForLit Director Adam Andrews shows you how to put this treasure to work in three simple steps – all without buying a single text book. Learn how to let the authors speak, and your class will never be the same.
Alisha Gratehouse |
How to Provide a Rich Art Education (Even If You Don’t Think You’re Qualified)
For the past 10 years, I’ve walked with homeschool moms just like you. And one thing I’ve noticed again and again is this: so many moms feel unqualified to teach art. Maybe you’ve thought to yourself… “I’m not artistic.” “I’m not creative.” “I wouldn’t even know where to start.” If that sounds familiar, take a deep breath—because I have good news: you absolutely can provide a rich and beautiful art education for your children—regardless of your experience or background. If you’re already confident in teaching art—yay! I hope you’ll still walk away with some fresh inspiration and encouragement... I want to share three simple principles to help guide your homeschool art journey:
Dachelle McVey |
Homeschooling the Outside-the-Box Thinker: Practical Strategies for Unique Learners
Not every child thrives with a traditional homeschool approach, and that’s okay! Whether your learner struggles with focus, needs movement to learn, or simply doesn’t fit the mold, this workshop will equip you with practical strategies to create a learning environment that works for them. Veteran homeschool mom and curriculum creator Dachelle McVey understands the challenges of teaching outside-the-box thinkers—because she’s been there. Drawing from her own experience homeschooling kids with ADHD and teaching neurodivergent students in her online classes, Dachelle will share simple, flexible ways to adapt curriculum, keep kids engaged, and manage distractions—without sacrificing your sanity. You’ll walk away with actionable tips to make homeschooling more effective, enjoyable, and tailored to your child’s unique strengths.
Cindy West |
Middle School Magic: Helping Middle Schoolers Dig Deep and Love Learning
Middle school is a golden opportunity for homeschoolers! These students are old enough to tackle deeper concepts but don’t yet face the pressures of high school coursework. With the right approach, middle school can be a time of excitement, curiosity, and meaningful learning. In this workshop, veteran homeschool mom of over 20 years, Cindy West—who has successfully homeschooled three children—shares practical strategies for helping middle schoolers dig deep into learning while keeping it fun and engaging. You’ll discover ways to nurture critical thinking, encourage independence, and make subjects like science, history, and literature come alive—without overwhelming them. Learn how to balance structure with flexibility, incorporate hands-on experiences, and spark a love for learning that will carry them into high school and beyond. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep middle schoolers challenged without burnout, this session is for you. Walk away with fresh inspiration, actionable ideas, and a renewed appreciation for this incredible stage of learning!
Christine Keys |
“But What About Socialization?” – Reframing the Most Common Homeschool Question
Let's take a deep dive into the topic of socialization and how we should be viewing it as homeschool parents. What is the purpose of socialization, and why does it seem to be such a hot topic when it comes to homeschooling? We'll discuss practical ways to ensure our kids build healthy, meaningful relationships while still embracing the unique aspects of homeschooling. Plus, we'll tackle the big question: How do we make sure our kids don't turn out "weird"? And, honestly, is being "weird" even a bad thing? Join us as we challenge common misconceptions and gain a fresh perspective on socialization in the homeschool world.
Christina Franco |
Cultivating a Sacred Home: Integrating Faith into Everyday Homeschooling
I’ll share practical ways to weave spiritual growth and faith-based principles into daily homeschool routines, fostering a nurturing and sacred home environment. I’ll share about the importance of this at all ages and stages and how they grow and develop over time. I’ll encourage parents to start young, but also that it’s never too late to start.
Jessica Waldock |
Homeschooling an Only Child: The Truth About What It’s Really Like
Wondering what it’s really like to homeschool an only child? In this candid and heartfelt video, I’m sharing the ups, the downs, and everything in between—after nine years of homeschooling our daughter Emily, who’s always been our one and only. Whether you’re considering this path or just want a peek inside our homeschool life, this one’s for you. You’ll hear: – The unique joys of homeschooling an only child – The challenges no one talks about – Practical strategies that have made a difference for our family – And finally, an honest Q&A with Emily as she answers real questions from the perspective of a homeschooled only child.
F.A.Q.
Who is this for?
What's the theme for the BRAVE conference?
Do I have to watch LIVE?
When & where is this?
Who's hosting the BRAVE conference?
Who can I contact for support?
Thanks to our Sponsors:
Trusted partners who support BRAVE 2025
