The Smiling Homeschooler Podcast Episode 397 - Shaping Your Homeschool Approach
Mar 25, 2026
Katherine Petgen, homeschool graduate, mom, and daughter of Todd Wilson, shares personal homeschooling stories and why her “owl” personality favors doing things right. She talks about starting structured learning later, resisting pressure to begin too early, and how social media and conventions shape homeschool choices. Short, reflective, and full of relatable moments.
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First Convention As A Homeschooling Mom
- Katherine enjoyed her first homeschooling convention as a mom and found it energizing to browse curriculum, talk to passionate vendors, and imagine resources for her kids.
- She noted the unique value of seeing materials in person and hearing speakers dedicate time to refill a parent's motivation to homeschool.
Attend A Convention To Refill Your Homeschool Tank
- Go to a homeschooling convention to flip through curriculum, talk to creators, and sit under passionate speakers who refill your motivation.
- Katherine says paying for the trip and dedicating time helps you 'fill up' so you can homeschool better at home.
Homeschooling Enables Deep Interest Exploration
- Homeschooling gave Katherine time to pursue personal interests like writing and to learn differently while traveling in an RV with her family.
- That flexibility let each child learn tailored to strengths and interests instead of a one-size schedule.