So many of us are eager to avoid a challenge as if it were a horrid disease. But those that desire to change the world must learn to embrace it as a necessary guide to greatness. Eric introduces us to the historic Christian mindset toward challenges, which surely invite you to the idea of living a bit closer to the Dangerous Edge.

Faith, family, and freedoms have faded in Europe and the Americas. But God gives us a tremendous opportunity now—building islands of freedom and culture unlike anything we’ve seen! He appears to use homeschooling as a catalyst for good things. How can your family plant fruitful beautiful gardens at such a time as this? How does the gospel of Jesus Christ advance in our homes?

Family Night: Choristers performance and Dr. Dan Bellamy – using adult-size balloons to portray the story of David and Goliath. God builds dangerous men and women—unstoppable, indefatigable men and women—that don’t accept the stop signs of cultural correctness as valid reasons to slow down. But instead, they live lives according to the prerogative of heaven—driving forward when heaven’s stop light shines green. This sort of man or woman sets captives free and turns the world’s status quo on its head

If Christian parents bring their children up “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord,” what does it look like? How would Jesus do it? What if our children were with Jesus? Would they be like the Greeks and Romans, or would they be very different? Jesus focuses on faith and life, relationships and the heart, and the Word of God. Find what matters most in educating your child.

Chorale performance. James, the apostle, commissions us to consider it pure joy when we encounter difficulties and trials. There are a thousand excuses to avoid putting such a strange command into practice. As a result, we lack power intrinsic to the fervent obedient Christian life. Maybe this message can help to change that

Dads are wired different than Moms and have unique contributions when it comes to discipleship and education of their kids. Phillip will share some stories of his personal adventures over the last 20 years with his children and a few helpful tips he has learned on the journey. Learn how dads can integrate multiple subjects into real-life experience through the things they love to do.

Amidst the amazing privilege of schooling at home couples often experience a strain on their marriage. Life with toddler tantrums, and hormonal sways of tweens and teens can consume parents. How can couples balance building a healthy marriage with educating and raising well-adjusted kids? How can you make time for each other amidst the captivity of activity? Rhonda Stoppe knows––she’s been there and she’s here to help you discover how your marriage can not only survive but thrive amidst the pressures of parenting and homeschooling. In this seminar, Rhonda’s real and engaging insights will help you realize you are not alone––and give you hope. Come learn valuable and practical insights for building a no-regrets marriage, taken from Rhonda’s latest book: The Marriage Mentor-Becoming the Couple You Long to Be (Harvest House). Visit NoRegretsWoman.com to watch FREE marriage mentoring videos with Steve & Rhonda’s and to watch the Stoppe’s interview with Focus on the Family.

King Albert of Belgium is an unsung hero of the past century. His actions in World War I model a spiritual decisiveness that is strangely lacking from rank-and-file Christians of our day. He stood against evil and refused to back down even at great cost to his life and homeland.

Every parent wants their young adult to become, well, just that – an adult. And in the midst of a generation steeped in extended adolescence, we earnestly hope our young people grow into brave, joyful, self-directed, hard-working, and healthy young adults with great relationships and a great vision for the future. But in an age where those both over and under 18 struggle with purpose, direction, relationships, responsibility, and unique if not unprecedented challenges, “adulting” has become more of a byword for something young people really don’t want to embrace. This two-part series suggests a different approach to the adventure of adulthood – one that opens the door to a life of impact, purpose, and thriving. Part I explains why the ability to ask good questions in a culture of assumptions is so powerful, why action is such a powerful catalyst for young people, and why understanding what we were designed for is foundational to everything else we do.

Why should anyone believe the Bible? If you think you’re about to hear about a bunch of evidences or arguments for the truth of Scripture, you’re in for quite a surprise….because it’s not about evidences, and it’s not about arguments. Basically, it’s not about you at all.

Ever feel like you are trying to explain a concept to your children and their minds are?somewhere far away???Do you feel?discouraged when they?act like school is a drudge? To help them fulfill their life calling, we must develop a specific plan for training each one. Come and learn how to work “with” the uniqueness of your child. Escape the bondage of expectations and set your child free to pursue his passions and be the whole person God wants him to be.

In this session we define “science”, and illustrate the scientific method of problem solving. In the light of true science, the three main concepts that the theory of evolution is based upon are examined and shown to be faith-based rather than science-based. The purpose of this session is not only to show that science does not support evolutionary theory, but also to give Christians some “tools” with which to combat the theory.

Here is a challenge to fatherhood. How do we avoid the traps of apathy and anger? Fatherhood is a test of our faith and love, but also, the means by which we grow in these areas. Here Kevin speaks to the great need of the day—fathers!

Pre-registration is required since class size is limited to 25 students. Five tricks of the trade that professionals use when sight-reading music. Many musicians never learn to sing, but whether you sing or play an instrument, or both, you will become a better musician by learning to apply these five techniques, which are: 1. Learn to aurally identify intervals!; 2.?Look over entire music and identify key, timing, speed, mode, accidentals, etc.; 3. ID melody; 4. ID rhythm; and 5. ID Harmony. Suitable for beginners, but probably not any younger than 10 years of age. No instruments are needed for this workshop.

Regrets? What does she mean “homeschooling without regrets?” I hear ya, friend. And I’m glad you asked. Because in the many years that my husband and I have ministered to homeschooling families, we’ve learned a thing or two. You get one shot at this homeschooling, parenting thing, so you need insights from people who have walked the path ahead of you. There is a way to homeschool your kids so that one day when you look back you won’t be wishing for a do-over. And Rhonda Stoppe is here to show you how. In this session, Rhonda will unpack Seven Ways to Homeschool without Regrets.

Pre-registration required. Jesus taught that the greatest among us would be those with a heart for service. We are living in a “me-centered” culture in which education, entertainment, advertising and peer pressure all combine to promote a life of selfishness. Marilyn has raised 8 daughters (and 6 sons) who have made service to others a priority in their day-to-day lives. Come to this workshop designed for moms and daughters as Marilyn Boyer shares with you ideas that work in designing a biblical lifestyle of service. You’ll learn how to live above self-centeredness and rise to greatness by putting others first with the added blessing of building forever memories together!

Every parent wants their young adult to become, well, just that – an adult. And in the midst of a generation steeped in extended adolescence, we earnestly hope our young people grow into brave, joyful, self-directed, hard-working, and healthy young adults with great relationships and a great vision for the future. But in an age where those both over and under 18 struggle with purpose, direction, relationships, responsibility, and unique if not unprecedented challenges, “adulting” has become more of a byword for something young people really don’t want to embrace. This two-part series suggests a different approach to the adventure of adulthood – one that opens the door to a life of impact, purpose, and thriving. Part II digs deeply into the idea that, while we might study the theoretical as children and adolescents, the whole point is to prepare us for living in the real world. This series concludes with the challenge that even though young adults today face a generation with unprecedented levels of darkness, despair, and hopelessness, there are few more powerful testimonies than a life that demonstrates what it looks like to truly thrive – and offers that same light and hope to others.

For over 100 years, American culture has had an ever-increasing infatuation with electronic media and entertainment.? A handful of thoughtful skeptics in the past contemplated the long-term effects on family, society, and individuals.? Now we are reaping the consequences as more and more studies confirm what some had rightly predicted. That is, our ability to be attentive is steadily eroding. We are becoming less attentive to our families, study, work, and most importantly, to God. What are the results and what will it take to regain the ground that has been lost?

By the end of this presentation, the audience will be able to deliver correct responses to the following challenges: 1. State what is meant by “hermeneutics”, 2. List three biblical proofs that the days of creation were actual days (~24 hours long), and 3. Explain why 24-hour days in Genesis 1 are essential for understanding the gospel.

This is one of the most breathtaking and perplexing sites in the world. Standard geological explanations for its formation are wrong, and most creationists have overlooked some major pieces of the puzzle. Amazingly, what carved the canyon also explains most of the fascinating geological features in the entire area (e.g. Monument Valley, The Petrified Forest, Canyonlands & Arches, Canyon de Chelley, etc.). Furthermore, they all formed very quickly! What happened?!

Pre-registration required. You may be surprised to learn that the Bible teaches us seven things about Jesus between the age of 12 and when He began His public ministry. Dads and Sons alike will benefit from the example Jesus gave us. These truths provide a wonderful path for boys and young men to follow.

Remember the mom you meant to be? You know, she was kind and patient and super excited to homeschool her kids…Yea, her. You may be wondering what happened to the mom you imagined you would be. And even more importantly, you might be wishing you knew the secret to becoming that mom. You’re not alone. Lots of moms feel this way, but wrestle with mom-guilt so they don’t tell anyone about their struggles. Rhonda Stoppe has been in your shoes. As a young mom, when she knew she wasn’t the mom she dreamed she’d be, she looked to older women whom she wanted to emulate. “I am confident my friendship with these women is what God used to help me become a mom without regrets,” says Stoppe. In this session, like a good friend over coffee, Rhonda will share with you the secrets to becoming the mom you always hoped to be. (And if you’re doing ok as a mom, join us anyway for some laughs and insights––you won’t regret it!)

What do we do when life looks drastically different than we ever asked for — or perhaps ever wanted? Most people know the story of how Esther became queen and helped save a nation. But the lessons we can learn from her obedience, faithfulness, and courage in a life-shattering situation run so much deeper than a crown. This session looks at practical responses, daily choices, and deeper perspectives that help us see God’s bigger story in all of life’s twists and turns.

When I first got started in apologetics, I thought it was basically about two things: a) proving God exists, and b) providing evidence to prove the truth claims of the Bible. It seemed what every big-name apologist had done before me, and it seemed to be an entirely reasonable, rational, and sensible approach…so for years, that’s the path I followed. I never stopped to ask myself, “But is it biblical?” In this presentation, using as many of God’s words and as few of mine as possible, I pass on what God taught me from His Word about what apologetics really is, and how He showed me, “Dan, apologetics is not what you think.”

With fascinating illustrations, this session contrasts the evolution model with the creation model from a historic standpoint through a look at what many ancient cultures were able to accomplish. These accomplishments baffle us even today! How did ancient man do these things? This session contrasts some of these civilizations to our own and has a personal application.

What in the world do I do with my preschoolers? Marilyn Boyer has taught all fourteen of her children at home, so she has plenty of experience with any age group you can name. But her very favorite age to teach is those eager, curious, exciting, challenging munchkins we call preschoolers. This, Marilyn says is the time when we lay the foundation for greatness by pouring love and acceptance all over them—instead of treating them like a nuisance. Preschoolers aren’t just little interruptions to be kept “occupied” while older siblings study. This season in a child’s life is the time to tap into his huge potential by maximizing his natural love for learning and helping him to see that God is preparing him for a lifetime of important service. Come and learn from Marilyn how to make your little ones a valuable part of the team!

Consider this dilemma: You have an adequate fixed income, but you find your bank account emptied by non-essentials before the bills are paid. The same occurs with the daily 24 hours God gives us. Too often the non-essentials squeeze out the essentials, and we fail to carry out God’s crucial assignments for us. And as this all too easily happens with homeschooling parents, come discover important ways to avoid this serious pitfall.

Using puppets and other visual illustrations, this session shows how life only displays design, order, and beauty – not lucky accident and chance. We cover three aspects of the natural world the evolutionist cannot explain – including amazing design, incredible instinct, and the general relative sizes of creatures compared to each other. This is a fun session designed for all ages.

24 years of private piano teaching (nearly 30,000 lessons) will teach a person a thing or two—some lessons learned the hard way, some the easy. The goal of this short workshop is to help point you to “hard work the easy way.” But even the best music business is not truly successful unless it’s based on the Kingdom. We’ll start this class with the importance of clarifying your philosophy of ministry, and then we’ll dive deep into the practical how-to’s of forming a private teaching studio. Many principles will cross over into other types of home-based businesses.

We are inspired by the stories of Daniel in the lion’s den and his three companions in the fiery furnace, but have we given enough thought to the foundation that must have been laid in their lives to help them thrive in Babylon?? They were not only captive in a pagan culture but their own people had been sent into exile by God on account of their own unfaithfulness and corruption.? What made these young men different along with other great men like Ezra and Nehemiah?? This workshop explores this timely theme and how it applies to our present culture.

May 1940 was a dark month in world history. The evil Nazi regime led by Adolf Hitler aggressively took control of Europe. Country after country fell before overwhelming Nazi forces; only Great Britain was left where Winston Churchill led in impossible circumstances. He set us an example to follow. When all goes dark here on earth—don’t for a moment think that the light has gone out in heaven.

Almost every high school and college graduate has fielded the question, “So what’s next?” But what happens when we’re not sure? When we don’t know which direction to go, where we want to end up, what job we want, or how to even start? With perspective from someone who has walked that very road and helped others to navigate it also, this session explores how to help your young adult get unstuck and start gaining momentum — and have an amazing adventure along the way. Victoria talks about what to do in the absence of a clear direction and how to conquer inertia and anxiety, maximize effectiveness, and lay the foundation for a meaningful, purposeful life.

Is it possible to disagree with someone on social media without the conversation devolving into a digital fistfight, replete with name-calling and an exchange of mocking memes to make one’s point? In this presentation, I demonstrate, using a real conversation I had on social media, how to leverage Greg Koukl’s Tactics to effectively guide conversations and ask intelligent questions that will cause those who read them to think about why they believe what they believe.

The first time Rhonda taught this message for moms raising boys was at a homeschool convention. The room was filled to capacity with standing room only. As Rhonda spoke moms hung on her every word. Afterward mother after mom came to ask for insights into their own journey as a mom guiding their sons toward manhood. From this experience Rhonda knew she needed to write a book to mentor moms in this incredible ministry of raising sons to men. Upon publication, her book: Moms Raising Sons to Be Men was selling over 1,000 copies per month because moms are desperate for mentors. Rhonda homeschooled so she gets it! She’s raised 2 sons and 2 daughters. Her boys grew up to become: one a fighter pilot and the other a worship leader (her eldest son is adopted). This seminar will encourage and inspire moms who are desperate to help guide their sons toward building a life of no regret. With practical insights, humor and biblical principles this seminar will give you the hope and inspiration you’re looking for as a mom homeschooling her son. (Visit NoRegretsWoman.com to listen to Rhonda & Dr. James Dobson sharing insights into raising godly sons.)

Were you ever bored in history class? So was Marilyn Boyer! History is not just a boring?list of names and dates. It is the breathtaking panorama of human experience! Real people, real lives, real adventures. For nearly forty years, Marilyn has been learning history with her children in a way that is not only fascinating, but life-changing. Come and learn how to do history as a family.

There are few journeys in life quite like marriage! So what is God’s “roadmap” for young men who look forward to (or are already on the path of) this divine calling? We’ll take a spiritual look at the practical application of Ephesians 5. As we apply “four truths to four levels,” you’ll find both the directions and the destination of marital bliss coming into clearer focus.

Whether or not you are “addicted” to anything, we all have things in life we want to change, or “fix”. We live in a broken world, yes? In this workshop we will talk about how the Bible has the answer to whatever or wherever our “brokenness” is as Steve explains how he let his love of numbers lead him into gambling which became “compulsive” and after seventeen years almost ended his marriage until twenty-seven years ago the truth and understanding and guidance and love found in God’s Word changed his life, one day at a time.

As a father of a son, and a mentor of twenty other young men over the last sixteen years, Kevin shares about the unique challenges of raising sons and introducing them to manhood. He addresses what God wants for our boys as revealed in his Word.

Pre-registeration required since the class size is limited to 20 students. Most students dread music theory classes. In this class, we will explain why theory is critical, how to understand three basics of music theory in a memorable way, and, most importantly, how to apply it to make you a better musician. Learn to properly identify and use the three components of every single song and how to apply them to create your own arrangements and songs. The attendee will learn the proper balance of melody, harmony, and rhythm, as well as how to identify and utilize: Scales, Intervals, Chords, and Circle of Fifths. Students should be at least late beginner/early intermediate.? There will be lots of useful applications for even most advanced students as well.? A piano keyboard, or whatever instrument the student is comfortable with, would be very helpful for this class.? Some of the principles will apply to all instrumentalists, but it will be primarily demonstrated on the piano. It will be geared toward pianists, but this class will teach valuable techniques for all musicians.

Amidst the rapid popularity rise of personality typing, the differences between individuals have been cause for both conflict and celebration – and this holds true in families as well. Pulling from over twenty years of experience in varied family relationships, this session looks at parent-child and sibling dynamics, how to gracefully navigate the differences between very different personalities, and what true understanding looks like in a family setting.

Homeschool and housework and meal prep – Oh My! There is just so much work to be done when you educate your kids at home. Can I get a witness? And yet, when you’re doing all the things, it’s easy to fall into survival mode and miss opportunities to savor the moments. In this session, Rhonda will unpack 4 Vital steps to teach you how to rest in a way that guards against burn out and refreshes your spirit.

What evidence is there that humans evolved from ape-like creatures? As it turns out, not much! In fact, the “evidence” is stunningly sparse, being limited to a few fossilized bones. However, many of these are either fakes, or greatly misinterpreted and exaggerated. This session uses humor as it exposes much of this. To conclude, we show mathematically and geographically why the apes-to-man scenario is quite impossible!

Does studying long lists of funny-sounding names so enrapture you that you find yourself studying them deep into the night, or do you keep them on hand as a homeopathic cure for insomnia? In this humor-filled presentation, I do the unthinkable–I make “the begats” fun. Learn what the purpose is for each of the five major genealogies in the Bible, and find out if we really can use them to estimate the age of the earth; the answer may surprise you.

Character is the key that opens the door to successful adult living. It is the first thing wise people examine when evaluating a prospective employee, spouse, or friend. That’s why Christ-like character is the MOST important subject you will ever teach your children! Come hear Marilyn Boyer, mother of 14 home-schooled kids and learn as she shares how to intentionally teach this most important of all subjects.

In January of 1956 Ed McCully was one of five missionaries killed in the jungles of Ecuador by a group of people they were trying to reach with the Gospel. We will see how “God’s ways are above our ways” and how He wants to use each of us and all of the details of our circumstances for good. We will have time for questions and answers at the end and a collection of documents related to the story available for folks who want to know more about it.

Have you just started your homeschooling journey? Come to this workshop to get information on legal requirements, what to expect in the first year or two, and how to navigate the various ages and stages of homeschooling. Whether you are starting with preschoolers or high schoolers, this session will help you start strong!

In this encouraging session, Nancy shares tips she’s learned along the way for making the home education adventure more effective and fruitful—and more enjoyable, too! Part of homeschool success is knowing what might undermine your efforts. We’ll touch on several obstacles to success and explore what success might look like for your family. You’ll also glean ideas to help you organize your time, your home, your schedule, and your life in ways that will foster a successful homeschool experience with your children.

One of the biggest blessings of homeschooling is the time we are given to teach our children to know and love the Lord. Find tips and ideas for weaving a God-centered approach into all aspects of your homeschool journey and family life!

This session is a brief introduction to both the concept of “worldview” and the basic contours of the Christian worldview. After a discussion of the definition of “worldview,” we will examine the essential aspects of the Christian worldview as it relates to the nature of basic presuppositions, knowledge, and the shape of reality. With this basic foundation, the session will end with an exploration of ways homeschooling parents can incorporate these understandings in their family curriculum.

This session will be a brief conceptual and thematic overview of The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis. This discussion will include some clues to the structure of the series, the prominent themes of each book, and significant passages in the books. This brief introduction will end with a general Q/A during which participants will be able to ask questions about how the Chronicles can be used in homeschooling.

Homeschooling in America is freer from restrictions and more accessible than ever. One major reason for this is the advocacy of HSLDA over the past 40 years. However, this year we’ve witnessed yet another wave of persecution. Christian homeschoolers have shown that we are uniquely equipped to serve and lead our culture. As a mature institution, we must do what only followers of Christ can do—draw our neighbors to the gospel that offers guidance and reconciliation. We need to champion homeschooling as an enduring institution—one that continues to shape the character of children by modeling virtue.

It’s so important to teach our kids God’s Word and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Learn ways to prioritize these things in your family culture, your weekly homeschool schedule, and the daily challenges of parenting. You’ll come away with a refreshed vision for these precious years with your children and practical tools to help you focus on the Lord together!

We talk about what we think about, and we think about what we love. How can we look deep inside to see what we really are? All we need to do is listen! Why? Because our tongue is a tattle-tale of our hearts.

Are you wondering: How to get your child to focus on school? How to get them to stop jumping around and being distracted all day? Or maybe you’ve wondered why your child can play video games for hours but not focus in on school for even 5 minutes. Come and hear how to utilize the gifts of ADD/ADHD to dial in the focus of learning for your child and you.

Are you ready to run the race set before you? As in any race or journey, the better informed you are, the better the experience. Whether you’ve already made the decision to homeschool, or are still sitting on the fence, come learn more about homeschooling and requirements here in Massachusetts. Susan will address a few of the most frequently asked questions and address common concerns of parents just getting started.  She hopes her practical advice will leave you informed and encouraged as you begin one of the most important adventures you’ll ever take – the journey of homeschooling your children.

Travel with Dr. Mark through Proverbs 1-9 and learn about six character types: mockers, foolish, simple, knowledgeable, wise, and discerning. Many children and adults find themselves most closely aligned with the Simple, Foolish, and Mockers. In this seminar you will learn the essential steps a child must take to become knowledgeable, wise, and discerning. Once these steps are learned, children and adults can gain Wisdom’s highest rewards, promising that “anything you can desire cannot be compared to it.” According to Dr. Mark, if there was just one thing he could impart to children and parents, it would be this lesson.

We can never underestimate the importance and necessity of reading. READ. Read. Examine. Apply. Do. The key to retention is unlocked in this session that encourages all students to read, examine, apply, and do what they read from the Word of God.

This session is centered upon an essay by C. S. Lewis entitled: Is Theology Poetry? This brief essay, (https://www.samizdat.qc.ca/arts/lit/Theology=Poetry_CSL.pdf), provides an engaging encounter between Modern philosophy (18th to 20th Century) and historic, orthodox Christian thinking. The essay is accessible and insightful. The session will provide a context for the essay, a discussion of the argument Lewis employs, and application for our context.

Homeschooling jargon can be confusing even for seasoned homeschool parents. In this workshop, we’ll go through an overview of some of the most common curriculum approaches including traditional textbook, Classical, Charlotte Mason, literature-based, unit studies, and eclectic. Nancy will share examples of curriculum and resources for each approach and provide a helpful handout summarizing the pros and cons of each approach along with a list of resources.

Choices have consequences. Despite our best intentions, not every choice produces the desired results. Live and learn! I can’t change now the outcomes of my homeschooling experience. Instead, I can help parents "in the trenches". How I wish a wise and caring homeschool vet had shared these tips and encouragements with me years ago. You can learn it all yourself, or benefit from my decades of experience, both good and bad! I really believe these insights will be helpful to current homeschooling dads and moms - parents just like you!

This seminar promises to be a great awakening for creative imaginations. Based on the principles of Ecclesiastes 3, 12, Romans 4, 5 and 2 Peter 1, parents will discover the importance of stories with relatable characters who are challenged, who struggle, and who change and grow. According to Charles T. Jones, “You will be the same five years from now as you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.” This calls for a rebirth of inspiring literature that builds godly character from the ground up! In this dramatized lecture, be prepared to laugh and cry as Dr. Hamby demonstrates the power of literature and exposes the foolishness of Folly’s seduction prevalent in today’s “Christian” literature. All attendees will receive a catalog of Christian literature written from the 17 th through 19th centuries and an annotated bibliography that Mark believes is among the most powerful, life-changing literature in the world.

Faith is blind, hope is wishful thinking, love is love, the Gospel is to love people. You may have heard these phrases or similar ones used outside (or even inside the church). However, an important overlooked question is, "What is the biblical understanding and definition of these terms?" In this session we will use interactive role plays to wrestle through a biblical understanding of each term and ideas of how to communicate the truth of these terms in an increasingly anti- Christian and biblically illiterate world.

What is the long-term goal of your home school? Is it getting your child into college? That doesn't mean they will be functioning adults. Do you have a plan to help launch your child as a functioning adult? When does one start, and how? It's not as hard as you might think, but it does need intentionality. How does one cultivate a long-term picture resulting in a student ready to launch? Come away with two new tools for evaluating time and energy to make big changes in long-term outcome. We'll share real life examples.

This workshop helps the homeschooling parent think outside the box of how to best develop their children’s God-given potential. Sometimes a child has been given a diagnosis that simply does not settle in your heart of hearts. In this workshop, Staci will detail what other influencing factors could be hindering your child’s ability to learn and how to overcome these barriers.

Homeschooling freedom stands on two essential pillars of freedom: the right of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children, and the free exercise of religion. Yet only one of these freedoms – religious liberty – is explicitly guaranteed in the United States Constitution, and both freedoms are under attack. Jim recently became president of ParentalRights.org after its founder (and Jim’s mentor) Michael Farris moved to Alliance Defending Freedom in order to focus more exclusively on religious freedom. Jim has taken up the challenge of explicitly including parental rights in the Constitution. HSDLA and ParentalRights.org believe children are best served when parents are empowered to act in their children’s best interests without undue interference from the state. Come and hear about what it takes to change the Constitution and how you can help.

Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Mormonism, New Age, and Atheism are just a sample of the claims vying for adherence today. But the question is, "How do we know which (if any) is true?" As Christians, can we effectively communicate to others that Christianity is true? How can we know Jesus is the only way? How can we know Jesus rose from the dead? In this session we will use interactive scenarios to wrestle through and come out with an overwhelming conviction that Christianity can be shown to be true and stands far above the other options in doing so.

Technology is everywhere, and it seems to be very opinionated! The algorithms that power search engines, social media, and advertising determine what we see and how often. While computers are serving the content, they’re simply following instructions given by the people coding and tweaking these algorithms. Their viewpoints and perspectives sometimes (maybe even often) influence the results. As a Christian homeschooler, you’re part of two groups whose views are not always fairly or equally represented in our information-driven society.  This session will focus on the importance of raising a new generation prepared to shape the messaging provided by tomorrow’s technology.

Preschool and kindergarten are fun and wonder-filled times! But how do you know what to teach them? How do you give them the best start and set your homeschool up for success? It's easy to get overwhelmed or think we have to replicate what the public school is doing. But there is great freedom in homeschooling, even for these early ages! In this session, a homeschool mom of 6 will help you navigate these precious early years with confidence and enjoy your time teaching your kids the things that matter most.

Feeling weary? Worried that you’re failing your children? Need a boost of confidence to keep plugging along? Join Nancy as she reminds us that God has placed our children in our unique families and that He has equipped us as to raise, disciple, and educate them. She’ll share encouragement from God’s Word that will refresh you and revitalize you in your mission as a homeschooling mom. In Christ, you are indeed enough!

Homeschooling a Special Learner can be challenging and isolating. In this workshop, Staci will discuss ways to find your tribe and build your village so that not only your child will be well supported, but you will be too.

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, that opens 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.

Are you a homeschooling dad like I am? Do you need an occasional booster shot like I do? Coome let us reason together, encourage one another, bear each other’s burdens, and leave refreshed to carry out or vital role.

The ultimate need of every student is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. You know Christ—but do you have the courage, compassion, and confidence to clearly present His plan of redemption with your students? Knowing that God has not given us the spirit of fear, what does He give us instead?

You’ve made the decision to homeschool or perhaps you’re exploring homeschooling as an option for your family. What’s next? Nancy will provide some direction as you embark upon this journey of teaching your children at home. We’ll cover ideas for lesson planning, basic supplies to have on hand, creating a schedule that works for your family, the benefits of joining a local homeschool group, how to balance enrichment activities and family life, and more.

Truth is under assault in our culture. How can we think about truth? What are the models for truth utilized in our culture today? How can Christian thinking help us understand truth? How can we help our children understand what truth is? The discussion of this topic will lead us into the Biblical understanding of truth and a Trinitarian understanding of how we can think about truth. The Q/A section of the session will highlight ways in which this discussion can inform how we shape our children’s learning in light of the Biblical understanding of truth.

Homeschool moms are incredibly dedicated and hardworking. With all the aspects of homeschool and family life to juggle, it’s no wonder that we are sometimes stretched thin! But our marriages are worth the energy and effort to prioritize, even (especially) in the midst of busy family life. Learn some common pitfalls to avoid and how to help your marriage thrive now and into the future!

Two years from now, we will do what we love! When we are consumed with the "Shema" by loving God and others, we do well. When we get tired and distracted and start loving self, more than others, we struggle. What is the key to "increasing in our love for God"?

As our children approach high school, the question of “can I really homeschool my child through high school and equip them with all they need?” rears its ugly head. In the workshop Homeschooling Through High School every parent of any child will receive the encouragement to recognize this season as a time of harvest where they will see the fruits of their labor be produced. Additionally, how to build a course of study according to your child’s abilities and futures will be explained.

"Five years from now you'll be the same person you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read"- Charlie Jones. A good book has the amazing power to inspire, excite, and challenge the way you view life. Filling your home with such treasures can not only change you and your children's character, but also shape the way you learn, write and grow! Listen in to learn more about influential storytelling, powerful literature in the home, and what Scripture has to say about it all.

Family conflict is inevitable. You can cover it up and try to look good before others, or you can come face-to-face with it and accept the changes that need to be made. In this hard-hitting seminar, Dr. Mark exposes how the dysfunctional family of Jacob and Rebekah serve as a microcosm of conflict for all families. From marital dysfunction to sibling rivalry, Dr. Mark exposes how children react in direct relation to their parents’ marital relationship. Once the root cause of conflict has been identified, then each family member can give what is needed and receive that which they long for – unconditional acceptance. For when we are valued, we are able to experience what God describes as being “blessed”.

Jesus was consistently doing things wrong given the culture of the time. Eating with tax collectors, telling parables about the good Samaritan, and going against the traditions of the religious leaders. The inclusion of details that would be problematic in the culture in which Christianity began gives credibility to the truth of the Gospel. Jesus highlights the unique degree of faith in three individuals: the Roman Centurion, the Canaanite woman, and the Samaritan woman. In this session, we will consider these interactions and what they teach us about the nature of faith and the credibility they give to the New Testament.

Struggling to teach all the kids all the things? Finding it difficult to plan your days or keep from falling behind? Learn from a homeschool mom of 6! You’ll come away with practical ways to organize your days, maximize your teaching time, and still make time for the joys of homeschooling.

TEACH-CT, Connecticut's Christian homeschool state organization, and HSLDA attorney, Peter Kamakawiwoole (representing CT, MA, RI, and VT), present an update on homeschool freedoms and legislative challenges from around the country.  From registration lists to education savings accounts, attacks and dangers abound and are spreading rapidly as a potential threat to homeschooling in every state. Some come from the enemies of homeschooling, others come in the guise of friendly offers of help from the government. Be informed about national trends and join the conversation about how we can speak in a unified voice to protect our freedoms. We are stronger together.

We homeschooling parents invest a lot of ourselves in our children. When one of them strays, it is a painful, prayerful time. As one who has wandered himself, and one who has shepherded seven children through sometimes challenging times, Jim has a word of encouragement, reconciliation, and hope for walking through troubled times.

Whether towering mountains, a giant canyon, a tropical reef, or your local park, there is a profound beauty in nature. There is also a brokenness in the created world. Whether disease, disaster, or man-made destruction, we know that the world should not be this way. Critics of Christianity miss the implications of the beauty in the world and use elements of the brokenness to reject God. However, our intuitions about both beauty and brokenness point to the reality of God. In this session we will discuss the evidence for God and the Gospel from the beauty and brokenness of the world.

The homeschool reality sometimes involves struggles that can leave a parent feeling overwhelmed and inadequate with children who are equally frustrated. The truth is that while the nitty gritty of teaching our children at home is sometimes messy and emotional with a variety of highs and lows, homeschooling is a great privilege and, yes, even a joy! Join Nancy as she shares encouragement to bolster you on those challenging days and refresh you as you endeavor to create an atmosphere of joy in this learning adventure with your children.

How do Homeschooling parents help their children make good decisions about college? Is Christian higher education an option? What about private secular education? Is the state system a viable option? What about STEM education? What are the possibilities for authentic Christian discipleship continuing for your homeschooler during their college years? Is college even a good option? These are only a few of the questions that homeschooling parents face as they think about the future. This session is an exploration of the issues and concerns that must be addressed before a wise decision can be made.

In this workshop, we will acknowledge there is no one-size-fits-all pathway for transitioning our special learners to life beyond high school. Whether your special learner is college bound, on the path to apprenticeship, continuing a family business, or needing continued help far into the adult years, you will walk away with ideas and tools to help your special learner find their own unique pathway to success in life beyond the high school years.