In 1925 the U.S. Supreme Court said children are not mere creatures of the state. The 1945 United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes that parents have the “prior right” to decide what kind of education their children will have. Is homeschooling a “human right” of the first order? HSLDA Staff Attorney, homeschooling father of seven, and Director of International Affairs Michael Donnelly explores this question and shares a presentation he delivered at the world’s largest human rights conference on the philosophy of law and social philosophy. In this talk, Donnelly examines philosophies on the relationship between the family and the state and looks at how human rights doctrine is applied globally towards homeschooling.

Tracy Klicka identifies common causes of stress in homeschooling and family life, and provides helpful ideas on how to deal with stress from a godly perspective. Included in her talk are the issues of lifestyle, use of time, and getting help.

In this session, Tracy Klicka emphasizes the foundational importance of cultivating your child’s relationship with God. She will discuss the importance of reaching the heart of your child through study of the Word, prayer, and open, honest communication. She will share special encouragement for the toddler and teen years.

Struggling herself with the frustrations and interruptions that seven children inevitably bring, Tracy Klicka has a strong desire to encourage other moms not to forget their number—one priority. She shares realistic ways a mother can find time to walk with her Lord in this busy season of life.

In this workshop, Tracy Klicka will discuss the wisdom of doing “all things decently and in order,” and will highlight principles of ordering one’s day and organizing the home for the glory of God.

Tracy Klicka hasn’t met a homeschool mom yet who at some point in her homeschooling experience doesn’t desperately want to quit. Sometimes it seems the challenges are more than we can take, but there is hope. Be encouraged not just to survive, but to thrive in raising children for the Lord.

In this workshop you will be introduced to the Reggio Emilia approach to Early Childhood Education. Created in Northern Italy following WWII by Loris Malaguzzi, Reggio is very popular around the world as we realize that children are not empty vessels but people with great potential who are capable and full of promise.

Children who are given lots of love, affection and clear boundaries become very secure learners who feel safe and valued in their everyday learning. Undaunted by failure, these children learn quickly because they view every day as an adventure to be lived with their whole hearts!

As Tracy Klicka has experienced, it is not always easy for a homeschooling mom to keep her focus, her joy, or the hearts of her children. More than academics, homeschooling is about growing in God’s grace for both parents and children! If you are feeling discouraged, come and be renewed in five crucial areas of your homeschooling adventure.