Cleverly Changing Podcast

Math doesn’t have to be hard, in fact some people love math. It also shouldn’t be frustrating but in order to learn with ease, a strong foundation is needed. In today’s episode, we discuss how parents can give their kids a strong foundation and how kids can learn to love math. Intro (00:00) Mathematics had a huge influence on Ancient Africa. In fact, the earliest measuring stick (the Lebombo Bone) that was ever found was found in ancient Kemet. The game mancala gets its origins from Ethiopia. If you want to learn more about mathematics in ancient Africa check out this youtube video Manu Ampim: “Classical African Contributions to the World in Math & Science“ Further reading about Math in Africa: Bangura, Abdul Karim. African Mathematics: From Bones to Computers.  Gerdas, Paulus. On the History of Mathematics in Africa South of the Sahara. Zaslavsky, Claudia. Africa Counts: Number and Pattern in African Cultures 3rd Edition Word of the Episode (2:00) Hesabu means math in Swahili Cleverly Cultured Kids (2:20) For this episode, I sat down and talked with my daughters about their feelings toward math. I enjoy math, but we are at a crossroads with how they feel about it. Of course, I am on a journey to help them have a more positive math experience, so this episode features some tips that we use to help them understand better. Currently, they enjoy Geometry the best because of its practicality. Grown Folks Talk about How Kids Can Learn to Love Math (8:44) On Episode 16, Miriam and I talk with Brandon Berry, a Professor of Business Management at Frostburg State University and an Academic and Life Coach to teens, he shares tips about math. He also introduces us to his newest online course. Motherland Math Next, please check out Brandon Berry’s Motherland Math (affiliate) course, which is a math and history resource for grade levels 4 – 12. Your kids will learn to love math by gaining confidence and knowledge at the same time. Reader Participation Learn to Love Math was today’s topic if you have found resources that you love and you have a child that loves math. Please share those resources in the comment section below. We Need You To Share This Podcast Brandon Berry guest on the CleverlyChanging Podcast Also, please tell your friends about our podcast. While we love having a conversation with each other, the podcast will only be able to exist if more peo...

This is Elle’s sixth year of homeschooling and Miriam’s third year it has taken some time for them to become comfortable homeschooling. It can take a little time to find your groove within your homeschool and we are here to encourage you along your journey. Our goal is that you will remember that there is comfort after the fear subsides. Intro (00:11) He who learns, teaches. ~ Ethiopian Proverb Word of the Episode (1:18) Ukweli means truth in Swahili Grown Folks Talk about how to be Comfortable Homeschooling (1:45) Furthermore, Mariam and I discuss how we are feeling about our educational choices. Thus, we have a candid conversation about how we teach our kids within our comfort level, but also meet the state guidelines. This is a real discussion about how we found comfort homeschooling our children. After this conversation, we discuss a current news story. Homeschool Guidelines of Commar In addition, this link will tell you everything you need to know about homeschooling your child in the state of Maryland. The page will share with you all of the MD legal requirements. Visit podcast Episode 14 (the link is below) to learn which curriculum we are using this year. We Need You To Share This Podcast Also, please tell your friends about our podcast. While we love having a conversation with each other, the podcast will only be able to exist if more people are listening. If you know some who has children, our tips and tricks are beneficial to parents who homeschool and those who are interested in supplementing the education of their children. Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes Lastly, if you want to hear more about homeschooling and how we have managed to make it work, please check out our past episodes. * Episode 14 – Starting a New School Year – Episode 14* Episode 13 – Homeschooling As A Family* Episode 12 – Protecting our Children part 2- Cleverly Changing Podcast Episode 12* Episode 11 – Protecting Our Kids from predators* Episode 10 – The Cleverly Cultured Kids Discuss Discipline* Episode 9 – Important Health Tips for Kids and Families* Episode 8 – How to Handle Stress While Homeschooling* Episode 7 – How Do You Discipline Children?* Episode 6 – Transitioning to Homeschool*...

A new school year comes with great excitement. In this episode we talk about our hopes and plans for the new school year. Intro (00:15) Where you will sit when you are old shows where you stood in youth. — Yoruba proverb Word of the Episode (2:46) Mwanzo means beginning in Swahili Cleverly Cultured Kids (4:15) Our daughters discuss how there new school year is going. Grown Folks Talk about Homeschooling as a Family (7:05) Mariam and I shared our new curriculums and school regiment with the podcast audience. Homeschooling Resources Here are a few educational homeschool resources that were mentioned during the podcast * Math mammoth – https://www.mathmammoth.com * Blossom and Root – https://blossomandroot.com* Funcation Academy – https://www.funcationacademy.com * Child1st Publications – https://child1st.com * Hand Writing Without Tears (PreK, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th) afilliate links Subscribe to the Cleverly Changing Podcast Additional directories: SoundCloud | Spotify | iHeart Radio | Stitcher | TuneIn Previous episodes for our podcast can be found here

This is the first episode of Season 2. I am honored to have my husband as a special guest. He will be discussing homeschooling from a dad’s perspective. Episode 13 of the CleverlyChanging Podcas Intro (00:15) African Proverb – “A single hand cannot nurse a child” Word of the Episode (2:46) Baba means father in Swahili Cleverly Cultured Kids (4:15) My daughters discuss how their dad assists with their homeschool education. Homeschooling as a family is a way of life for my daughters because they have always been homeschooled. It was great to hear from them about how they see their dad’s role in their education. Grown Folks Talk about Homeschooling as a Family(7:05) The Dad in the cleverly changing household speaks up and shares his thoughts about homeschooling our children. Homeschooling Resources for Maryland Here are a few educational homeschool resources in the Maryland area. These are the ones that I personalize utilize or ones that some of my friends are using.  Facebook Groups: * Sankofa – https://www.facebook.com/groups/SankofaHomeschool/ * Silver Spring Homeschoolers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/294690130574150/ * Greenbelt Homeschoolers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/411224492408863/ * Maryland Homeschoolers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/MarylandHomeschoolers/ * DMV black Homeschoolers – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=815882118508965&ref=br_rs * PG County Homeschoolers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/pgcountyhomeschoolers/ Co-Ops: (these are co-ops I have either visited or spoke to the administrators directly) * Sankofa – Meets on Fridays (predominantly African American not a drop off program) – https://www.sankofahomeschool.org * Cheverly Stem ( 3 days a week, drop off) – https://www.cheverlystem.com * Tutorial (Tues and Thurs classes, drop off) – http://www.bridgeelementary.com/* Project Excel Academy in Bowie, MD (Mon, Wed, and Friday) – https://www.pxlacademy.org * Spectrum is located in Savage, MD (Tuesdays and Thursdays) – http://Spectrumchc.com * Granite Classical is located in Columbia, MD- (Tuesdays and Thursdays ) –

Intro Listener Discretion is Advised. Today’s episode is a follow up on Episode 11. We are interviewing Faith Davis, a licensed clinical social worker who has been licensed for dealing with substance abuse addictions. Faith has also done an internship with abuse victims, including sexual abuse and physical abuse. She has worked in North Carolina, Maryland and Washington DC. Red Flags and How to Protect our Children What are some of the red flags to look for in your children that can signal sexual abuse? You may be surprised by some of the warning signs. Non-verbal cues that something is going on are worth exploring. (8:15) Preventative Measures What can parents do to reduce our children’s likelihood of being victimized? (13:30) Steps to Take You just found out that something happened to your child, what do you do next? Faith tells us what the process is like when you file a report on behalf of your child. She also talks about getting the support needed to heal and move forward. (17:35) Consequences for Predators What happens to the predator? Miriam is angry. Did you know that abuse in general wasn’t a recognized violation for quite some time? (22:45) Differences Defined What is the difference between rape, molestation and incest? In case you are unclear on the definitions, we’ve got you covered. Education is half of the fight. Although there are clear definitions, it helps to think of them as a Venn diagram, as there are shared aspects of each. (26:40) Online Safety Internet safety and virtual sex crimes. The age of information and Internet access has opened up a whole new vein as far as sexual abuse and sex education and interactions are concerned. Faith shares her tips on how to handle sexual content (and to know what is sexual content) on the internet and apps and text messaging. (30:30) Life After Is it possible to have a normal and healthy life after experiencing sexual abuse? Faith talks about how healing can greatly depend on how a victim perceives what happened to them and some of the ways healing can come about. (39.47) Making the Call When should you call dial 9-1-1 vs. calling up Child Protective Services? CPS typically handles situations that involve the caretaker of the child. (46:45) Prevalence A little tidbit on sex trafficking. This information just may put your jaw on the ground. Did you know that America has a major problem with sex trafficking and child prostitution? (51:00) We’re not going to leave you feeling sad and helpless. We end with a poem by Maya Angelou, “And Still I Rise.” (53:45) Questions About Episode 12? Do you have any questions about this episode, or follow up questions for our expert? If so, please leave them below in the comment section. Subscribe to the Cleverly Changing Podcast Additional directories: SoundCloud | Spotify |

LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. Today’s episode is all about doing our best to make sure our children are not easy target for sexual predators. This is a sensitive topic for many, as far too many people have been the victims of sexual predators, abuse and assault. You may not want your little ones present when you listen to this episode if you’re not ready to have this type of conversation with them or you are not ready to answer some of the questions this topic can raise. The Cleverly Changing Podcast 11 – how to protect our children from sexual predators As always, our conversation comes from a place of love and a genuine desire for your family to be safe and healthy, thriving in the best way possible. As parents we are our children’s first and best advocate, so please stay vigilant and trust your gut. Our babies deserve it. If you’re looking for more information here are a couple of resources you may find helpful. “8 Ways A Predator Might Groom A Child” from Educate Empower Kids “How to talk to your children about sex abuse ‘early and often’ ” from USA Today Word of the Episode (2:42) Mahali Salama Grown Folks Talk (3:19) When you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got some ideas for you. Introducing the idea of good touch and bad touch with young people is a small and simple start to your protective measures. It emphasizes the importance of clarifying what is acceptable and what is not. Communication is key. (6:35) Placing blame where it belongs is important. When a child knows that they did nothing wrong and that they are not the reason for being victimized. And why preparation is so important. Just hoping that nothing happens to our children is not enough. (10:00) The idea of privacy and personal space is important, as is listening to that little voice inside. Are you speaking anatomically correct? (13:30) Miriam’s tale of a swift kick to the groin just may give you the push you need to empower your children. (18:15) How you can use books to help you talk to your children about their bodies and the dangers of predators. Think of books as the friend in the room to help buffer your conversation with your children. It may make you feel better about saying words that you are uncomfortable with. (23:00) What does the face of a predator look like? Sexual predators and sexual bullies come in so many different forms. For example, Dr. Larry Nasser as an authority figure who was taking advantage of his patients, family members or a peer their age. (27:30) 45 Books and Resources About Prevention and Abuse

In Episode 7 we talked about discipline (How Do You Discipline Children?) and now in Episode 10, we gave our kids a chance to tell us how they would implement discipline if they were the ones in charge. History (0:48) * Intro. * Parental relationships* Word of the Episode! (2:20) Nidhamu (Swahili) A person who is not disciplined cannot be cautioned. – African Proverb Cleverly Cultured Kids (2:53) During this conversation, we heard from our daughters. Two are 10 years old and one is 11 years old. It’s not often that adults get to hear kids discuss discipline. The conversation was both informative and amusing. I also want to let you know that I apologize in advance for the echo. I need to find a way to record all of the kids without us hearing an echo if you have any tips for us share them in the comment section below. Past Posts on Discipline * Discipline is Not Shame* Parenting and Discipline – Should You Spank Your Child?* Tips for Successful Gentle Discipline* What’s the Best Way to Discipline My Child? – HealthyChildren.org Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes * Episode 9 – Important Health Tips for Kids and Families* Episode 8 – How to Handle Stress While Homeschooling* Episode 7 – How Do You Discipline Children?* Episode 6 – Transitioning to Homeschool* Episode 5 – Homeschool Coops and Support* Episode 4 – Answers to Your Questions (Paper Vs. Computer)* Episode 3 – Our Educational Experience* Episode 2 – Homeschooling and Unschooling* Episode 1 – Resolutions The Educational Cleverly Changing Podcast Description Remarkably, embarking on a self-defining journey showered with self-determination and motherly love this educational Cleverly Changing is a podcast that is hosted by Elle and Miriam,

In Episode 9 we learn more about health and hygiene. Teaching kids these lessons, while they are healthy, are critical to helping them establish healthy habits as adults. Come along with us as we hear from the kids and discuss our own journey towards living a healthier lifestyle.

Episode 8 touches on how to deal with stress while trying to teach your children and live your everyday lives. Everyone will encounter stress in their lives there is no way around it. Not all stress is bad, but should be managed and can even be positive, it’s all depends on what steps you take to stay in control of the stress that’s in your lives.

Discipline is a topic that goes beyond the classroom and homeschooling, but it is important for parents to figure out which techniques work best for them and their children. Discipline is the art of teaching your child right or wrong based on your rules, values, and standards. Intro (00:34) Word of the Episode (3:48) Cleverly Cultured Kids (4:15) Listen to Aamira talk about dealing with distractions. Grown Folks Talk (6:00) Discipline is not something any parent really wants to dole out, but it is a necessary part of parenting. Every household is different, and no matter your style of parenting and loving discipline, we all want our children to be responsible, productive and moral beings. As responsible parents our guidance and nurturing will help them learn how to navigate this world and all of its many wonders, pitfalls, learning opportunities and personalities. * Miriam’s style of discipline and how she handles misbehaving in her “no spank” household despite being raised with “whoopings.”* Elle’s style of discipline in her “no spank” household and the story of “The Two Carolines.”* Miriam’s ideas on respect and children challenging the authority of adults.* Elle’s “Free Zone/Kid Spaces” theory.* Miriam’s family experiment. And the way family dynamics can affect disciplinary measures and behaviors.* 1-2-3 Magic method of discipline.* The importance of support when disciplining children. And setting expectations.* Why open communication is so imperative in managing your children’s growth.* The 3 Types of Discipline and how they apply to teaching your children.* Disciplinary tactics and implementing consequences. Listener Question (41:41) Keeping focus and dealing with distractions. Discipline Resources 1-2-3 Magic in the Classroom: Effective Discipline for Pre-K through Grade 8 https://amzn.to/2DzNlyl 1-2-3 Magic in the Classroom: Effective Discipline for Pre-K through Grade 8 https://amzn.to/2DzNlyl Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes * Episode 6 – Transitioning to Homeschool* Episode 5 – Homeschool Coops and Support* Episode 4 – Answers to Your Questions (Paper Vs. Computer)* Episode 3 – Our Educational Experience* Episode 2 – Homeschooling and Unschooling* Episode 1 –

History (0:10) Episode 6 Instruction in youth is like engraving in stone. – Moroccan Proverb Word of the Episode! (1:30) tuko pamoja Cleverly Cultured Kids (2:13) Interviewed by her mother, Miriam, Aamira shares her thoughts about being homeschooled and how other people react to learning that she is homeschooled. Episode 6 discusses how to begin homeschooling Grown Up Talk (5:18) Elle and Miriam discuss deschooling and how they navigate their homeschool journeys. They also answer a question from a listener on transitioning from traditional school to homeschooling. Miriam gives her thoughts on deschooling and why it is necessary and why it may not be necessary. Finding your groove and how to be patient with the process is a key part of making the transition from traditional school to homeschooling. Elle offers a deschooling definition and explains how deschooling is what you make it. You get to define your life and your learning. And Miriam describes how deschooling is an ongoing process for her. Having support when you’re a homeschooling family is very important. Elle and Miriam explore various mediums for finding support. Strategies for handling the naysayers. How you can prepare your children for interactions with people who are not wholly supportive of your decision to homeschool. Cleverly Changing Homeschool Resources * How to prepare a homeschool Portfolio * Homeschooling: This is How We Do it * Questions Asked About Homeschooling * How to Get Started Homeschooling In Maryland * 20 Ways to Socialize Your Homeschool Child * Homeschooling With Love: 10 Ways Dads Can Support Homeschool * 25 Places in Maryland With Homeschool Discounts or Classes Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes * Episode 5 – Homeschool Coops and Support* Episode 4 – Answers to Your Questions (Paper Vs. Computer)* Episode 3 – Our Educational Experience* Episode 2 – Homeschooling and Unschooling* Episode 1 – Resolutions The Educational Cleverly Changing Podcast Description Remarkably,

History (0:20) Episode 5 is all about cooperation. In the ancient nation of Kush, trade was an avenue of cooperation among the people. While the cultural significance of the history of Kush doesn’t have a direct tie-in, I chose this civilization because they mastered trade and working with their hands together in a community. The fact that they built over 200 pyramids, also shows that the Kushite people worked together to build a thriving nation. Learn more “Rival to Egypt, the Nubian kingdom of Kush exuded power and gold“ Word of the Episode! (2:15) Pamoja Cleverly Cultured Kids (3:00) Interviewed by her mother, Miriam, Aamira shares her thoughts about co-ops. Grown Up Talk (10:20) – 7:38 Lastly, Elle and Miriam discuss their various coop experiences. Both have attended co-ops, but their experiences are vastly different. For a list of questions to ask before you join a co-op see the link below. Ask These Top 10 questions Before Committing to a Home school Group Homeschool Resources * African-based agricultural science activity workbook * Mamademics* Kamali Academy* Kwanzaa 365 Curriculum* Sankofa Science Solutions  Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes * Episode 4 – Answers to Your Questions (Paper Vs. Computer)* Episode 3 – Our Educational Experience* Episode 2 – Homeschooling and Unschooling* Episode 1 – Resolutions The Educational Cleverly Changing Podcast Description Remarkably, embarking on a self-defining journey showered with self-determination and motherly love this educational Cleverly Changing is a podcast that is hosted by Elle and Miriam, who are two African American homeschooling moms. Please listen in on conversations shared biweekly that will encourage you to be your authentic self, while uplifting your spirit, learning newly cultured information, and motivating your inherent potential. They’re defining what culture is for their families and want you to do the same.

In Episode 4 we provide answers your questions about homeschooling. We also briefly talk about kids using paper versus digital resources. Early in my homeschool experience, I realized that my kids learned differently on paper than they do when they are using a computer. So today’s history segment is all about the early history of paper and writing material. Enjoy! And let us know if you have any show topic suggestions.

Elle and Miriam go down the road of past experience. You’ll hear how they met, meet their families and their levels of education. They’re sharing how they approach homeschooling and how their matriculation has made them the instructors that they have evolved into. This episode also touches on the wealth of supplementary materials that can take your homeschool experience to a whole other level. History Check out the oldest university in the world, the University of Al Quaraouiyine. Although their website is written in Arabic, you can read their president’s foreword in English here. Word of the Episode! (2:00) Elimu Haina Mwisho Cleverly Cultured Kids (2:58) Aamira’s favorite things to do. Grown Up Talk (6:33) * How our educational experience colors the way we homeschool. **Be advised… Miriam was misinformed about DC homeschooling residents needing a degree to homeschool. Please disregard.*** Hear how Elle and Miriam met and learn about our family makeup.* What do you do when you have multiple ages to teach? It’s definitely possible and may require some real ingenuity, but keep pushing–the perfection you seek may not truly exist. Hear Miriam’s solutions and perspective on teaching multiple levels.* Elle’s two girls have always been homeschooled. Miriam’s oldest daughter started out in public school. What was the reason for the change? And what are their plans for the future?* What kinds of materials do you use? Elle incorporates a curriculum level workbook and Miriam is part of a co-op. Is a tutor right for you family?* What is a hybrid educational experience? How can umbrellas (state/county approved groups that verify your instruction and document it for the state/county)?* How can you find the community that is right for you and your family?* Elle and Miriam discuss their elementary experiences.* Educational resources and how to make the most out of what the internet has made possible in the world of education. Our Favorite Online Resources * Outschool* Flocabulary* Brain Pop* MobyMax* Legends of Learning* Ten Marks* Khan Academy* ABCya* Kennedy Center Arts Edge* Our Local Public Libraries Past Podcast Episodes and Show Notes Episode 2 – Homeschooling and Unschooling – Episode 2 Episode 1 –

We are so glad that you’re listening to our podcast. Our CleverlyChanging podcast is new so we would love for you to share it with your friends who are interested in learning about education, life, and culture. Within these first few episodes, we are sharing our journey to educate and guide our children from home. Please feel free to leave show topic suggestions in the comment section. Word of the Episode! (3:02) Elimu Haitekeki Cleverly Cultured Kids (3:50) My 10-year-old daughters discuss books they would recommend. Grown Up Talk (6:00) * The definitions of Homeschooling and Unschooling * How important is literacy to you?* What methods do we use in our homeschools?* Child led self-directed education Previous Podcast Episode and Show Notes Episode 1 – Resolutions – Episode 1 The Educational Cleverly Changing Podcast Description Embarking on a self-defining journey showered with self-determination and motherly love this educational Cleverly Changing is a podcast that is hosted by Elle and Miriam, who are two African American homeschooling moms. Please listen in on conversations shared biweekly that will encourage you to be your authentic self, while uplifting your spirit, learning newly cultured information, and motivating your inherent potential. They’re defining what culture is for their families and want you to do the same. Bring your children along too, so they can meet the Cleverly Cultured Kids. They’re all for teaching the babies while they are young, adapting to the challenges of parenting, homeschooling, mompreneurship, and being willing to learn the lessons that the children have to offer. It’s all about uplifting one another and reclaiming your innate greatness. Tune in and share the podcast with your friends. You can also follow our social channels: Facebook.com/Cleverlychanging, Instagram.com/Cleverlychanging, Twitter.com/Cleverlychangin. Miriam’s shop is at Instagram.com/FrankandHerbs.