What role do grandparents play in a homeschool family?
In this heartfelt episode, Kaitlin Zara sits down with Homeschool Connections co-founder and grandmother of eleven, Maureen Wittmann, to discuss the unique and beautiful ways grandparents can support homeschooling families. From reading books and teaching life skills to offering practical help, prayer, encouragement, and simply being present, grandparents have an incredible opportunity to strengthen family culture and enrich a child’s education.
Maureen shares personal stories from her own homeschooling years, practical ideas for grandparents who live both near and far away, and encouragement for families navigating relationships with skeptical relatives. This conversation is a touching reminder that homeschooling is about far more than academics—it’s about building strong, loving family relationships across generations.
Show Notes
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
John Paul the Great Catholic University in California offers hands-on programs within creative arts, digital media, theology, and business in a faithfully Catholic environment.
Apply for free and explore free online storytelling courses at:
https://jpcatholic.edu/homeschool
Resources Mentioned
- Catholic Family Crate Subscription Boxes
https://catholicfamilycrate.com/ - Homeschool Connections Articles for Grandparents
https://homeschoolconnections.com/category/grandparents-homeschooling/
What We Cover in This Episode
- Why grandparents are such an important part of homeschooling
- Practical ways grandparents can support homeschool families
- How grandparents can help even when they live far away
- Using books, nature, cooking, and family traditions to enrich learning
- Why homeschooling strengthens intergenerational relationships
- Helping homeschool parents avoid burnout
- Supporting family culture through shared experiences
- Encouraging grandparents who feel unsure how to help
- Navigating relationships with skeptical grandparents or relatives
- Why homeschooling is more than academics: it’s a way of life
- The importance of prayer and mentorship within the family
- How grandparents can pass down faith, stories, and family history
- Respecting parental authority while remaining involved and supportive
About Our Guest
Maureen Wittmann is the co-founder of Homeschool Connections, a veteran homeschool mom of seven, grandmother of eleven, author, speaker, and longtime advocate for Catholic homeschooling families. Through her writing, speaking, and work at Homeschool Connections, she has spent decades helping families homeschool with confidence, joy, and a strong Catholic family culture.