Honoring Copyright in Homeschool Curriculum

Honoring Copyright in Homeschool Curriculum

Before we dive in, I want to say this upfront:

If you’ve never considered what I’m about to share—or if you realize you’ve made a misstep in the past—this is not a message of condemnation. Truly.

We’ve all made decisions at some point with limited knowledge. The goal of this post isn’t to shame or call anyone out. It’s to offer clarity, compassion, and an invitation to use homeschool resources in a way that honors God, each other, and the hard work behind small businesses like ours.

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Homeschooling Beyond Academics: Why it Matters

Some of the most common fears I hear from homeschool moms sound a lot like this:

“What if I miss something?”
“What if my child falls behind?”
“What if I don’t give them everything they need?”

Can I gently speak into that fear, friend? Because I’ve been there too. And what I’ve learned along the way is this:

Academic success doesn’t start with a perfect checklist of subjects.
It doesn’t start with color-coded schedules or perfectly curated book lists.

It starts with something far deeper and far richer: A foundation of faith, character, and a family culture that shapes your child’s heart, not just their mind.

What Lasts Beyond the Lesson Plans?

Yes, of course we want our kids to read well, write clearly, think critically, and communicate with confidence. Those skills matter.

  • But what good are reading skills without wisdom?

  • What is knowledge without virtue?

  • What is intelligence without faith?

Success isn’t found in the number of worksheets completed or the number of subjects mastered. It’s found in who our children are becoming—and Whose they are becoming.

This Is Why I Created Gentle + Classical

I didn’t set out to create a curriculum that just filled the shelves. I wanted something more for my own children—and for yours.

I wanted to build a home where:

  • A love of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty anchors every subject.

  • Habits of attention, humility, diligence, and perseverance take root in daily life.

  • Faith isn’t a separate subject we check off, but the very atmosphere we breathe.

When you prioritize faith formation, character development, and family culture, you’re not neglecting academics. You’re preparing the soil where deep, meaningful learning can truly grow.

You Don’t Have to Choose Between Academics and Discipleship

The world wants to tell you that you must pick: Either a strong academic homeschool or a home rooted in discipleship. But that’s not true.

Gentle + Classical weaves both together, offering:

  • A curriculum that leaves space for the Holy Spirit to work as you study His Word and memorize His Truth.

  • Simplicity without sacrificing depth—because learning can be joyful and meaningful, without being shallow.

  • A framework that equips you to raise thoughtful, curious, Christ-centered children and covers what matters academically.

You don’t have to chase every subject, every extracurricular, or every shiny new curriculum. You simply need to stay focused on what matters most.

And that’s where we help—by giving you the philosophy, tools, and confidence to do exactly that.

Friend, You’re Already Doing More Than You Think

If you’re reading this, you care deeply about your child’s heart and mind. And I believe God honors your faithfulness. The work you’re doing—the reading, the praying, the showing up—isn’t small. It’s kingdom work.

So take a deep breath. You don’t have to do it all. But you are called to be faithful in what matters most.

If you’re ready to step into this kind of rooted, meaningful education, start by exploring our free Teacher’s Guides and whole-issue samples. They’ll help you build a foundation where learning and discipleship grow together, beautifully.

Want to learn more about Gentle + Classical curriculum? CLICK HERE to download one of our 100% FREE Teacher's Guides to learn more about the Gentle + Classical philosophy.

Should You Buy "Open-and-Go" Curriculum?

Should You Buy "Open-and-Go" Curriculum?

Let’s just say it out loud: We live in an Amazon Prime world.

Two-day shipping. Instant streaming. One-click ordering. Everything is designed to get us from “I think I need this” to “It’s already on my doorstep” in 48 hours or less. And if we’re being honest? That way of thinking doesn’t stop at shopping.

It’s seeped into how we approach everything—including homeschooling.

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Rainbow Snacks & Treats Round Up

Rainbow Snacks & Treats Round Up

There’s just something magical about rainbow snacks—bright colors, fresh flavors, and the joy they bring to little ones! I searched for the most fun and easy rainbow-inspired treats that kids will love, from healthy options to sweet treats perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a rainbow theme, St. Patrick’s Day, or just want to add a little color to snack time, this list has something for everyone. Get ready to taste the rainbow!

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Should you homeschool?

Should you homeschool?

I see you, mama. You're standing at the end of another homeschool year — or maybe at the edge of your very first one — and you're asking the big questions:

“Can I really keep doing this? Should I even try?”

You're tired. Maybe a little defeated. You’ve carried the weight of it all — the lessons, the meals, the toddler tantrums, the endless sibling squabbles, the special needs appointments, and the mess that never ends.

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Classical Conversations vs Classical Education

Classical Conversations vs Classical Education

I’ve been thinking lately about how often we use the phrase “classical education” in homeschool circles—and how it can mean slightly different things depending on who’s saying it or who’s hearing it.

Sometimes when people say they’re doing classical education, they mean they’re part of Classical Conversations which is a structured program that uses classical tools like memory work, recitation, and public speaking (plus much more!) in a community setting. Classical Conversations is a particular brand of educational curriculum, just like Memoria Press, Classical Academic Press, or The Gentle + Classical Press ;).

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Why (and How!) You Should Explore Homesteading & Agricultural Science in Your Homeschool

Why (and How!) You Should Explore Homesteading & Agricultural Science in Your Homeschool

In a world where fewer children know where their food comes from—or how it grows—agricultural science has never been more important. Whether you live on a few acres (like we do!) or in a suburban neighborhood, there are countless ways to bring the wonder of agriculture and homesteading into your homeschool. Studying agricultural science isn’t just about planting seeds, and it’s definitely not just for people who farm or homestead. It’s about cultivating responsibility, understanding ecosystems, building life skills, and connecting to our roots.

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Homemade Bookmarks Round Up

We can never have too many bookmarks in our house, so I went on a search for the cutest, easiest, and most creative DIY bookmark ideas for kids! Whether you’re looking for simple paper crafts, fun ways to use up craft supplies, or something extra special to encourage young readers, this list has a little bit of everything. I’ve rounded up my favorite ideas from around the web—perfect for a cozy craft day with your little bookworms!

Ribbon Bookmarks from My Joy-Filled Life

Watercolor Bookmarks from Make and Takes

Mouse Bookmark Craft from A Crazy Family

Perler Bead Bookmarks from DIY Candy

Washi Tape Bookmarks from Suburbia Unwrapped

Popsicle Stick Name Bookmarks from Homan at Home

Cat Bookmarks from Happiness is Homemade

Paper Heart Origami Bookmark from The Gingerbread House

Dr. Seuss Bookmarks from Creatively Beth

Rocket Bookmark Craft from Only Passionate Curiosity

New Life Bookmark Craft from Thinking Kids Press

Rainbow Bookmarks from Twitchetts

Upcycled Bookmarks from Kelly's Classroom Online

Paper Weaving Bookmark from Red Ted Art

LightSaber Bookmarks from Crafts by Amanda

Finger Knit Bookmark Craft from The Craft Train

Felt Rainbow Bookmark Craft from Darcy and Brian

Magnetic Paper Tab Unicorn Bookmarks from Our Kid Things

Finger Paint Bookmark from Swoodson Says

Felt Bird Bookmarks from Sustain My Craft Habit

What is a Memory Statement? (And what do I do with it?)

What is a Memory Statement? (And what do I do with it?)

You may have noticed my post about how to assemble a memory statement board but still remained all-together confused or overwhelmed by what a memory statement even IS. Memory statements fill the pages of all Gentle + Classical programs, so I want to make sure you understand WHAT they are and how to implement them in your homeschool!

Memory statements are an idea that seems to have sprung from the more modern ideas of classical education and have been made popular by a popular community-based curriculum program. However, if we dig more deeply, we find that the notion of a “memory statement” is rooted in Charlotte Mason and true (historical) classical education.

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